OWC Tips & Deals 10/07/2006

Intro:
Greetings from Woodstock! How time can fly and darn it, it's just not supposed to go by this fast. Admittedly a lot is going on. Yet, it is still important to me that this newsletter be published more regularly and that is going to happen. it's a matter of balancing the various demands on available time. One new project that's taken a significant amount of time away I will now share with you. Starting about a year ago, we've been looking to find a new home for OWC. Although the current facility has served OWC well for over five years, we are now quickly out growing that which it can support.

After significant due diligence and a couple of near misses, I am pleased to report that OWC is on track to move next summer. Having stumbled across a land opportunity that was better than we'd have imagined, we'll be building from the ground up. It's a big step, but one that will allow OWC to continue evolving to serve the needs of you, our customer.

Of significant importance to all of us is impact on the environment. For years OWC has recycled packaging material, shipping pallets, paper, aluminum and other materials that just as easily could go into a trash bin. With our new building project, the environmental considerations are of a far greater scale.

For one, along with the actual land that has been zoned for our building project, we also were able to secure 28 adjoining acres that we can now insure the protection and conservation of. Maintaining natural 'green' wilderness space is something we are glad to have the direct opportunity to do.

In terms of our building project itself, while investigating 'green' we learned about the USGBC's LEED certification program. Our project is now registered with the goal of achieving a 'Gold' certification for this project.

LEED, which stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, provides a point system for various design considerations including the impact during construction and the long term efficiency of a building. Achieving the various point goals certainly has additional up front costs, but a significant portion of this cost is returned during the lifetime of the building. Given the benefits for the environment along with the cost benefits of a more efficient building, it's a huge win win across the board. It amazes me as to why there are not more LEED certified buildings today as ours, as planned, will be the first our area. Furthermore, when we are successful achieving the Gold Certification level, that will make our facility one of just over a hundred in the USA to have done so. If anything at all, hopefully others will be able to learn from our project.

The hardest part was getting the right team together. In our neck of the woods, there are only a few architects and construction firms with the experience this project needed. And then there was a lot of time, honestly frustrating, jus working on the basic functional design of the building. With these time consuming pieces now past, I am very happy to be putting time back into this newsletter which I do really enjoy writing. Anyway, no excuses, but wanted to let you know what's been going on - in addition to rest of the norm.

I sincerely appreciate you letting us fire our Tips and Deals into your e-mail box. For sure, we'll be keeping them coming (and gosh try to make that more frequent) with the latest happenings, etc. On that note, time to get on with just that. :)

New Intel Core 2 Duo iMacs
It's already been a month, but the 'Wow Factor' of Apple's new Core 2 Duo equipped iMacs newly available with up to a 24" display has not faded one bit! More processing power, more options, and better pricing vs. the original Core Duo model replace. Wow, Wow, Wow!

At first glance, you might have thought the new iMacs were just about that larger 24" option. The base speed offered is still 1.83GHz for $999 and the top speed option 'only' got a bump from 2.16GHZ to 2.33GHz. As a dual-core (effectively dual processor) system, even incremental speed improvements can be of significance - but the real story is the move from the Intel Core Duo 32 Bit to the Intel Core 2 Duo processor which is a 64 Bit processor. Apple claims up to 50% performance improvement with these new Core 2 equipped iMacs and without any argument, our own testing supports that significant gains definitely are provided. The new iMacs also support up to 3GB of memory versus 2GB max and the 20" and 24" models both have improved video options on the table as well.

So how's it all line up? The original base 17" 1.83GHz Core Duo $1299 model is replaced with a new $999 entry level 1.83GHz Core Duo 2 equipped. Additionally, the 17" is also now offered in a configuration with a 2.0GHz Core Duo 2 at $1199. The original iMac 20" 2.0GHz Core Duo $1699 model gets bumped to a 2.16GHz Core Duo 2 (with option for 2.33GHz) while retaining the same cost. And, of course, brand new is the 24" model base at $1999 with a 2.16GHz Core 2 Duo, also with option for 2.33GHz. The iMac has always been a winner, but never has it been better!>

All of these new iMac models feature FireWire 400, USB2, Bluetooth, Airport Extreme, Apple Front Row, built in iSight, support for 2nd Display, Ethernet, Audio In/Out, OS X, iLife, and the other basics.

The new entry level 17" 1.83GHz $999 model is equipped with the Intel GMA 950 video engine that is decidedly lowend while being optimized for Quicktime and Quicktime H.264 High-Def playback. The video, while adequate, definitely bottlenecks this systems performance for games or heavy graphics work. Unlike the 17" 2.0GHz model as well as all 20" and 24" models, the 1.83GHz entry level also lacks a Superdrive (comes only with CDRW+DVD-Rom combo drive), the Front Row remote is a $29 option vs. being included, comes stock with 512MB vs. 1GB + appears limited to 2GB max vs. the 3GB. While this is not by any means a bad machine, it's definitely entry level and has been stripped a bit. Really - you need at least 1GB (if not 2GB) and just that 1GB upgrade covers $75 of the $200 cost difference you pay to get the faster 2.0GHz model that's also got the SuperDrive and a far better video chipset.... If there is a perfect need filled, this model will do the job - but you get so much more for that extra $200.

The 2.0GHz 17" Model at $1199.00($100 option to 2.16GHz) and the 20" 2.16GHz Core 2 Duo $1499($250 option to 2.33GHz) model both come stock with ATI Radeon X1600 128MB Video (the 20" offers option for 256MB), 1GB of Memory, 8X DVD with Dual-Layer & CDRW SuperDrive, and Front Row remote in addition to common parts/features. Both offer excellent value for the features and performance provided and, again, I'd highly recommend you to consider spending the extra $200 to get to the 2.0GHz 17" if you are first considering the $999 entry level... the value returned is far greater than that $200 difference with consideration of the faster clock speed, significantly better video, 1GB memory base, and included Superdrive.

And finally - the new Flagship 24" - in addition to the sweet display real estate, this $1999.00 base offering bumps up video performance with the Nvidia 7300GT 128MB (256MB optional) and puts a 250GB based HD Model versus the 160GB in all the 17" and 20" models. Something else setting the 24" a part from the rest is the FireWire 800 Port. While all these iMacs sport FireWire 400 support, only the 24" model also gives you support for the twice-as-fast FW800 interface. The better video, bigger screen, and FW800 support help step this system up to be a top of the line home computer while being great mid-level video editing/graphics station for work too. This is a Mac that will satisfy for a very long time.

Having covered the basics that separate these machines, time for our comment on memory... You got to have it - more memory makes a HUGE difference with these systems. In fact, it especially makes a difference with apps that are still not Intel native (Microsoft Office, Photoshop/Creative Suite, etc) where more memory gets crunched for that translation. Usually I'd recommend a visit OWC's memory page after you've made your purchase. Absolutely we have got the right memory and it's lifetime warranted - but, at the moment you can not beat the value Apple is offering for the Factory installed upgrade options. Memory prices went up significantly in September, yet Apple still has their options priced the same as they were at introduction. Our current retail is $270 for a pair of 1GB modules, whereas you can Apple Factory upgrade from 1GB to 2GB for $175. Even with our $70 memory trade in rebate, Apple's still $25 cheaper. Apple also charges $750 to go to 3GB while it's going to cost you about $800 after rebate to go from 1GB to 3GB after the fact. Having said that, these special upgrade deals only exist when you factory select these upgrade options. We still come out better vs. Apple by a good margin when it comes to upgrading after the fact. As most retailers stock the base configs, that's certainly a benefit Apple tossed out there to encourage a direct sale from the Apple Store. Anyway... we do have the right stuff, but your value is to do that memory upgrade - if you can - at the time of purchase so long as memory prices don't ease back off and/or Apple increases those memory upgrade options prices reflecting the true higher costs. Anyway...

One more quick note - 3GB of memory is achieved with one 2GB and one 1GB memory module. In our testing, didn't matter which slot which module was in + more importantly - installing 2 x 2GB still only gave you a total of 3GB usable although the 4GB were reported as being there. Further note that the original Intel iMac models remain limited to 2GB as do the current MacBook, MacBook Pro, and Mac mini Intel models. We have tested and found that a single 2GB module works in those machines, but the Apple hardware firmware seems to be what limits how much memory can be used. In the past it had been nice to take advantage of larger modules as they became available, I am not sure why Apple is putting the firmware limits on these Intel models. Perhaps there might one day be a hack the nips those limits, we will see.

If you've been thinking about one of those new iMacs, hope this has helped. Also, think about those price drops and performance increases too... There is always the right time to buy a new Mac. However, if some more memory, new hard drive, or processor upgrade lets you coast comfortable with the Mac you've got now for another 6-12 months... A new Mac then is only going to be faster yet and for less too.

New MacBook and MacBook Pro Core 2 Duo models
If only! There is no real technical reason for Apple not to have already released the same kind of bump they did for the iMac with the MacBook/Pros. Apple was the first to ship the Core Duo in a laptop, but is now well behind Dell and others who have already migrated to the much faster 64 bit Core 2 Duo.

These new Core 2 Duo based MacBook Pros for sure... and highly likely for the 13.3" MacBook.. I am pretty sure are coming around the bend very soon. If you are getting ready to purchase one of those laptops, wait till then if you can. You'll be bummed otherwise when the bump does come out for the same or less money than the Core Duo models as currently offered.

New Apple iPods
As always, Apple continues to move forward. While not ground breaking, the new iPods are a nice jump forward. Timing is everything and as I had just read an article suggesting that Apple was falling behind the competition (was comparing the $249 Sandisk 8GB 'nano like' player to Apple's $249 4GB Nano) - it was nice to see Apple put such challenges in their place.

Anyone can offer an MP3 player, what sets Apple's iPod apart is the superior interface on the device itself as well as the incredibly easy integration iTunes provides for managing your music, videos, and photos on it. Who better to best Apple continues to be Apple.

The new Apple iPod Nano '2nd gen' is more than just a having more songs. Starting from $149 for 2GB, $199 for 4GB, and now 8GB available for $249 - this new Nano also offers a brighter display, choice of colors, and an improved design applying concepts that had made the iPod mini a winner. Whereas the original Nano was a square edged design all it's own, the new 2nd Gen Nano is really now like a miniaturized mini. The new aluminum housing with rounded sides, just like the iPod mini had, is also FAR MORE resistant to scratching. More capacity, longer battery runtime, sleeker with a more durable housing, lower cost per gig, some choice of color all make this Nano the best one by a landslide. Match that up with the iTunes integration and you can hardly find any competition that comes close.

The iPod Video keeps the same hip style, but with a significant functional enhancement. First off, the 30GB is now only $249 (was $299) and a new 80GB model is $349 (replacing the $399 60GB). Already a better value than the prior 'Video Generation', the real news is battery life! These new Video Models tout up to 6.5 Hours of video playback battery life (up to 20 hours of audio) vs. the prior that real world offered around 2 hours. For those who want to watch movies on their iPod video, battery life with the new models is not at all borderline for such purpose. A screen that is 60% brighter further improves the general function for all the purposes the iPod flagship model can be serve. More Run Time, Brighter display, and lower cost per GB of storage make the ''new' iPod Video a great update to already great product.

Going to 'Shuffle' this one pretty fast... The 'Old' shuffle was about the size of a large pack of bum and was $69 for 512MB, $99 for 1GB. The new iPod Shuffle is about half the size, has a built in belt clip, and is available only in a 1GB model at $79. A lot less money for 1GB, cooler and sleeker too.

For Fun and of interest
I sure hope my sense of humor doesn't ever get tested in this way. As a very happy user of Mozilla's FireFox browser, I really didn't see the joke in creating false alarm concerning it's security. See, a really clever hacker thought it would be funny to present a parody act about FireFox security flaws at a convention last week. This presentation was taken serious on, reported on, and even Mozilla publicly responded blasting that guy for publicly revealing a previously unknown flaw before giving Mozilla a chance to correct. Well... it was a lot to do about nothing since the alleged security flaw part was all made up. FireFox is A-OK and the hacker has since apologized. Grrr.....

One person's trash is another's treasure and with that in mind, concepts like FreeCycle provide a real win-win. Give stuff, get stuff, keep it out of a landfill. I don't understand the guitar they use for the letter 'L' in their logo, but I definitely dig their mission.

Talk about a demotion of galactic proportion, after the esteemed status of being our Solar System's 9th planet for nearly a century, it has been determined that Pluto fails to meet the three required criteria of a planet in good standing. With Pluto now considered to be 1 of 3 'dwarf planets', we are officially reduced to a Solar System of only 8 'planet planets'. That should make helping the kids with their Science/Astronomy interesting.

Intro Closing:
There's some scoop... and yes, expect more much sooner than this last time spread. I expect some new product pretty darn soon out of Apple and have some OWC and NewerTech goodies to share too for our next time around. Thank's for reading and as always - the very best to you and yours.

And hey... check out our latest Quick Tip, updated Reader Specials, and Roger's Music on the Mac which follow right after these 'messages from our sponsor':

Quick Links
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Just what does OWC do with trade-ins, open box items, discontinued goods, etc.? We put 'em up on our Clearance Deals Page. **Just added a ton of new goodies September 30th + a few more goodies just today**

Upgrade the Mac you have or get a new one? OWC's exclusive Benchmark Reporting System helps you answer your own question. Compare various stock Macs vs. New Macs vs. Upgrades - you pick the Macs to compare and from up to 15 different tests we've completed.

Use Apple OS 9.2.2 & Apple OS X on Macs Apple doesn't support because OWC does with OS 9 Helper and Xpostfacto!

Quick Tip: Keeping OS X up to Speed

I don't pretend to know the details of why OS X doesn't take care of these things itself. What I do know is that repairing permissions and cleaning up OS X system cache files can both eliminate application problems as well as keep performance up to peak.

You can repair permissions manually by launching Disk Utility, selecting your drive volume, and telling it to 'Repair Permissions'. When file access permissions get out of whack (don't ask my why they do, but they do and this is regular maintenance you should do with Disk Utility), applications can run slower, have problems performing certain operations, or even unexpectedly quit during use. Repairing the permissions brings file access rights back into proper line so the resources are available correctly as various applications make use of file resources.

Cleaning up your OS X Cache requires some 3rd party help - short of reinstalling your OS from scratch. When I recently installed 10.4.8 Update, boy did my system come to a screeching halt. Everything was running, but window redraws were agonizingly slow and it made every operation requiring a window move or opening very painful. While I only first noticed this after doing the update, this sort of 'phenomenon' can occur independently just from normal use too and repairing the permissions doesn't take care of an excess or corrupted OS cache file issue.

For owners of Macs with a PowerPC processor I highly recommend AppleJack - which we've covered in a prior quicktip. Once you install this utility, you boot into single user mode which is perfect for the system maintenance it does. What's also nice is that with a single command it will automatically run through the five maintenance options it supports, including the cache clean up and permissions repair in one swoop. I recommend this application be installed too just for the OS repair help.... More often than not, should you have some flukey OS X flake out where it won't boot - AppleJack has proven a real saver there too.

Unfortunately, Applejack is not an option for the Intel Macs. There is apparently some bug that prevents command line execution of the needed tasks where the Intel Mac is booted to Single User mode - and that's something Apple has to fix before AppleJack will come out for Intel Macs.

But, another option that is available for Intel Macs and PowerPC Macs alike is Cocktail. This application runs under OS X via the finder just like any application and allows the manual running of various maintenance options (including the important cache cleaning and permissions repair) as well automated scheduling of this maintenance as well. Unlike AppleJack, this application is ShareWare - so it is not free, but they'll let you use it ten times before making you buy. For those that need it or see a the uses beyond that which AppleJack provides, I personally find Cocktail well worth $14.95 you'll pay to own it clear.

And that's that. In my opinion this kind maintenance shouldn't be needed to begin with, but - since it is, those applications noted above make it really easy and the benefits are definitely there for doing so.

See past Quick Tip topics online in the Quick Tip Archive

Great Buys and Featured Exclusive Specials for OWC E-Mail Subscribers:

Find all the deals reserved just for Readers on your Tips n' Deals Exclusive Specials Page. What follows next is just a sampling of this week's highlights.

Burn, baby... Burn! Apple 16X DVD DL SuperDrives $32.00
The perfect optical drive upgrade or addition for your PowerMac G4, G5; eMac G4; iMac G4; or Mac Pro Quad Xeon! Burn DVDs at up to 16X, DVD Dual-Layer (8.5GB per disc) at up to 6X, and CDs at up to 40X. Apple native OS X support, fully compatible with Apple's iLife apps, Roxio Toast, etc - and for the lowest price ever.
Apple DVR-109AB SuperDrive DVD/CD Internal Solution $32.00 for Readers!

Check out Apple DVR-109 Bundles with Software, DVD & CD Media from $37.99

Also available are internal SuperDrive upgrades for PowerBook G4, iMac G5, and Mac mini models available here... or..

Just plug and play an external SuperDrive solution from $79.99 ready to burn DVDs and CDs with iLife, etc. found here.

OWC Exclusive Rebates on ATI Video Cards
From now and until October 15th, get up to $50 rebate back from ATI when you purchase from OWC! This rebate is exclusive to customers of Other World Computing and available for the above limited time only.

Rebates offered the following MacEdition video cards include:
Radeon 9200 PCI 128MB, $ 99.99 after $30 rebate
Radeon 9600 AGP 256MB, $189.00 after $30 rebate
Radeon 9800 AGP 256MB, $229.00 after $30 rebate
Radeon x800 AGP G5 256MB $369.99 after $50 rebate

500GB FireWire External $235; 250GB for $125.00
500GB OWC Neptune FireWire 400 7200RPM 16MB Cache Solution now $235.00
250GB OWC Neptune FireWire 400 7200RPM 16MB Cache Solution now $125.00
FireWire Cable, EMC Backup, Intech HD Speedtools, 1yr Warranty Incl.

250GB NewerTech miniStack 7200RPM FireWire+USB2 16MB Cache Solution $149
500GB NewerTech miniStack 7200RPM FireWire+USB2 16MB Cache Solution $275
Performance storage solution with powered, built-in FireWire and USB2 Hubs all in a convenient 6.5 x 6.5 x 1.5" size + all cables, EMC Retrospect, Intech HD Speedtools, 2yr+ Warranty included.

500GB OWC Mercury Elite-AL Pro 800 RAID FW800/400 7200RPM 32MB $259.00
FireWire Cables, EMC Retrospect, Intech HD Speedtools, 2 year Warranty

500GB OWC Mercury Elite-AL Pro 800 RAID FW800/400+USB2 7200RPM 32MB $275.00
FW & USB Cables, EMC Retrospect, Intech HD Speedtools, 2 year Warranty

Check out our Full Line of FireWire & USB2 Solutions online.

Got your own drive and need the right enclosure?

NewerTech miniStack FW+USB Bare 3.5" Kit $69.00; with Software Bundle $84.95

OWC Mercury Elite Oxford911plus FW400 3.5" HD Kit - $49.00

OWC Mercury Elite Oxford912 FW800/400 3.5" HD Kit - $79.00

See our full line of 2.5/3.5/5.25" 'Do It Yourself' Kits from $19.99

MacBook & MacBook Pro 2GB Mem Sets $212.50 & More
10/7/2006 Memory Report: Can't say we didn't warn ya - memory prices did, overall, got up somewhat in September. Still prices are darned reasonable and look now to be holding fairly steady. More memory can make a sluggish Mac plagued with dreaded 'spinning beach balls' speedy, definitely something noticeable and worthy of the investment put forth. Top Quality Memory from OWC - backed by our leading Lifetime Advance Replacement Warranty - is the right stuff to let that Mac show you it's stuff!

New Mac Pro Quad Xeon Upgrade Sets
Add up to 16GB to Apple's new Mac Pro with Matched Sets of DDR2 667MHz Fully-Buffered DIMMs. All OWC Memory for the Mac Pro is 100% Apple Certified Spec including the use of an Apple Qualified/Approved Heat-Spreader. This is the Correct memory for your new Mac Pro!
OWC 2GB Mac Pro FB-DIMM Upgrade Set (1GB x 2 Pair) $ 472.99
OWC 4GB Mac Pro FB-DIMM Upgrade Set (2GB x 2 Pair) $999.95
**4GB, 6GB, 8GB, 12GB, 16GB complete sets offer lower pricing per module**

Memory for all Intel based Apple MacBook, MacBook Pro, iMacs, & Mac minis
These systems all feature two PC5300 DDR2 667MHz memory expansion slots. Modules do not need to be matched pairs, but installing the same size module in each slot (1GB + 1GB for example) provides maximum memory performance according to Apple.
See all memory and hard drive options for MacBook/MacBook Pro
2GB Upgrade Set for MacBook/MacBook Pro (1GBx2) $269.00

Standard DDR for all other PowerMac G5 and iMac G5 models:
1GB Matched Pair (2x512MB) PC3200 DDR 184 Pin - $137.50
2GB Matched Pair (2x1GB) PC3200 DDR 184 Pin - 267.50
1GB PC3200 DDR Module for iMac G5 Only (PowerMac G5 requires Pairs!) $135.00

For new 'Oct/20005' PowerMac G5 Dual & Quad 'Dual-Core' Models:
Eight Slots, Matched Pairs Required, DDR2 533MHZ PC4200 up to 16GB Max
1GB DDR2 Pair (512MBx2) - $ 125.00
2GB DDR2 Pair (1GB x 2) - $239.00
4GB DDR2 Pair (2GB x 2) - $499.00

Memory for iMac G5 1.9GHz, 2.1GHz with built in iSight Camera:
512MB Built in + One Slot PC4200 DDR 533MHz 240 Pin allows up to 2.5GB:
1GB DDR2 Upgrade Module - $120.00
2GB DDR2 Upgrade Module - $245.00

For Mac Mini, eMac G4/1.25-1.4GHz, and eMac 1.0GHz 'Education Model':
512MB PC3200/2700/2100 184 Pin DDR DIM Module now $68.00
1GB(1 x 1024MB) PC2700 DDR 184 Pin Module - $129.00

For all PowerBook 12" Models; all 'Pre Oct 19th, 2005' PowerBook G4 15" & 17" Models; All iBook G4 Models; And all iMac G4 models:
512MB PC2700/2100 DDR SO-DIMM 200 Pin Module - $65.00
1GB OWC PC2700/2100 DDR SO-DIMM $142.50

For PowerMac G4 Sawtooth/AGP Graphics, Gigabit Ethernet, Digital Audio, QuickSilver; eMac G4; iMac G3 350-700MHz Models:
256MB PC133 CL3/PC100 CL2 168 Pin SDRam DIMM Module - $31.00
512MB PC133 CL3/PC100 CL2 168 Pin SDRam DIMM Module - $67.50

Visit our Mac Memory Section to browse the full selection of memory we offer and/or use our online memory guide to get the right memory for your Mac(s).

PowerBook, iBook, MacBook Int HDs: 80GB from $75, 160GB from $195
SATA Internals For MacBook Pro & MacBook models:
120GB WD Scorpio 5400RPM w/8MB Buffer & 3yr Warranty - $114.00
160GB Hitachi 5K160 with 8MB Buffer and 3yr Warranty - $195.00

ATA Internals For PowerBooks & iBooks:
80GB Seagate Momentus 5400.2 8MB Buffer, Special w/1 Year OWC Warranty $75.00
100GB Apple Hitachi 5K100 5400RPM 8MB Special w/1yr OWC Warranty $92.50
120GB WD Scorpio 5400RPM Notebook HD w/8MB Buffer & 3yr Warranty $99.00
High-Performance 7200RPM 2.5" Drives 60GB to 100GB now from $107.95

Hard to find Apple Airport now in stock for $92.50
Apple Airport Cards for PowerBook G4 Titanium, iBook G3s, PowerMac G4 Desktops, etc. with original Airport support. These were going for $150+ on Ebay just 3-4 months ago and now we've got 'em for ** 92.50 **

Also available - Buffalo 802.11B/G Wireless PCMCIA Cardbus 'Airport Compatible' - $35.00 for any PowerBook G3 'Pismo'; any PowerBook G4 model. Uses the external PCMCIA Slot and available for a fraction of an Apple Airport's cost + give you faster 802.11G performance too!

Other Wireless options for PowerBooks, PowerMacs & wireless routers, extenders, etc - also available from OWC.

Processor Upgrades
Mercury G4 Extreme for all PowerMac G4 AGP Graphics/Sawtooth, Gigabit Ethernet, Digital Audio, and Quicksilver models. 30 Day Money Back + 3 Year OWC Warranty
OWC Mercury Extreme G4 @ 1.5GHz with 2MB L3 Cache, $245.00

ATA/IDE or SATA 500GB now $199; 250GB now $83.00
250GB Seagate 7200.10 Solution with 16MB Buffer and 5yr Warranty
IDE/ATA Version - $83.00
SATA I/II Version - $83.00

500GB Seagate Barracuda 7200RPM with 16MB Cache & 5 year Warranty
IDE/ATA Version - $199.00
SATA I/II Version - $199.00

IDE/ATA Drives are for PowerMac G3 & G4; iMac G4; eMac G4 Models. Some of those models may require either an ATA PCI Card or InTech HD Speedtools with Hi-Cap driver for utilization of over 128GB. Also, SATA PCI Cards are available to allow the use of SATA HDs in any PowerMac model.
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Get HD Speedtools w/Hi-Cap for $15
SATA PCI HD Controllers from $39.99
ATA PCI HD Controllers from $69.99

All PowerMac G5s, iMac G5s, and the new iMac Intel models can use any of the above SATA drives. Apple iMacs all support one internal drive. PowerMac G5 models support up to two SATA drives using the Factory Bays, and you can add up to 3 additional drives inside the PowerMac G5 using Sonnet's G5 Jive + an additional SATA Controller card to support the additional drives.
--
G5 Jive 3 HD Bracket/Cable Set $89
SATA PCI Cards for G5s from $39.99

Get Apple OS X 10.4 Tiger Retail + iLife 2005 Special Bundle $99.00
Get Apple's latest OS X Tiger + unleash your creativity with iLife 2005 in this most excellent bundle for only $99.00!

Also available:
Apple OS X 10.4.6 Retail Box Version $119; 5-User Family Pack $165 and more options including:
Apple OS X 10.3.9 Panther Server for $149.00
Panther 10.3.x Single User on DVD for $47.99

Goodies from Griffin like iTrips from $9.99
Our good friends at Griffin have made it possible for OWC to offer some great deals on several popular Griffin products including:

Griffin iTrip FM Transmitter for 3G & 4G iPods - $9.99
Griffin iTrip FM Transmitter for iPod mini - $12.99
Griffin iTalk Voice & Audio Recorder for 3G, 4G, Photo iPods - $22.99

Check these and all our Griffin deals right online.

MultiMedia via your Mac & Standalone too- Music-Movies-etc
AL Tech MediaGate MG-35 is a stand alone Multimedia Player that lets you stream video, music, movies, photos and more - from your Mac and to your TV via home network. Utilizing a hard drive installed in the unit, you can directly store such multimedia content on the MG-35 for completely standalone use. The missing home entertainment multimedia link - from $129.00!

PowerBook & iBook Batteries that run longer, last longer!
NewerTech iBook and PowerBook batteries are the longest lasting, longest running standard type batteries you can buy! Built in the USA using only the very best cells from Japan and Canada, these batteries are built to last.

NewerTech NuPower batteries, with up to 62% more capacity vs. Apple's original stock, are available for iBook G3 & G4, PowerBook G3s WallStreet/Lombard/FireWire models, and all PowerBook G4 Models.

Deals on iPod Goodies
1800mAh NuPower Battery for 1st/2nd Gen iPods normal $14.99, now $9.99
46% more run time capacity vs. Apple stock battery. Jam again, Jam longer!

See NewerTech Batteries for iPod 1G, 2G, 3G, 4G, Photo & Mini + Online Videos.

NewerTech Universal FireWire/USB Dock Adapter - $9.99
For all iPods with Dock Connector - Connect iPod to system with USB/USB2 or FireWire Cable. NewerTech DockSpot iPod White LED Light - $2.99
Nifty compact light that powers off any iPod with Dock Connector

NewerTech Clean & Polish Kit for Apple iPods, iBooks, etc - $15.00
Not just some crummy cleaner or diluted polish in a bottle - this is a professional grade kit with two polish types and special cleaner that really restores.

Add BlueTooth for $19.99; Wireless mice from $12.99
Add BlueTooth to any Mac with USB 2.0 Built in or that has a USB 2.0 Add on Card! Synch/Connect with BlueTooth Phones, BT Headsets, and other great Bluetooth enabled accessories for $19.99

Logitech RF Wireless 2 Button USB Mouse w/Scroll Wheel, only $12.99!
I have been using the mouse happily since August. And have heard great feedback on the Mouse and Keyboard wireless combo to. Logitech Wireless Freedom for an unbeatable price.

You'll find more great deals, updated regularly on your Tips 'n Deals Reader Specials Page, check it out!
Music on the Mac 10/7 - Budget Mic; Great Mic Set

Greetings from www.macsales.com/music

New Mic Flies Under The Radar

Greetings from macsales.com music dept! Last time we discussed using microphones effectively. This week we take a look at an inexpensive but useful new mic.

M-Audio has a new mic that is the perfect fit for the novice recording environment. It's called the SoundCheck and it has not gotten much attention...yet!

It is a basic but very good sounding dynamic mic designed for voice and guitar recording. This mic does not require phantom power and so works well with basic audio interfaces such as the popular M-Audio Fast Track. It would be an ideal mic to have on your desk to record your podcast too!.

This is a lot of mic for the typical street price of only $50. You get a case, mic stand clip and even an XLR mic cable....a fantastic value in my opinion. The mic also has an on/off switch and would be just as comfortable onstage as it would be next to your computer.

The M-Audio site does not list any frequency response specs on this mic but I have used it and it had a nice, clear natural sound. Make no mistake, there are many mics on the market, some designed for specific jobs or sounds, but you just can't go wrong investing only $50 in a good sounding mic that can be used in many ways and situations. This is a mic that deserves to be seen AND heard!

2 Great Mics - 1 Low Price !

We have been aggressively expanding our Microphone department and are now pleased to announce that we carry the Marshall line of microphones. One of the first things we did was order their Anniversary Pack. This package amazingly includes not one, but 2 high quality studio condenser microphones and sells for about $100 for the pair! There are 2 different models included. The first is their popular MXL 603. This is a great mic for recording musical instruments such as violin or woodwinds. It is also perfect to use as an overhead mic for drums and cymbals. This mic has a very flat (even) frequency response and will give you an absolutely crystal clear audio picture of whatever you use it on.

The other mic in the package is the MXL 2001. This large diaphragm condenser mic is just right for vocals and would also work well recording a guitar amp, sax, tom toms, etc. This set of 2 mics is the perfect pair to start out with when setting up your home or project studio. At about $100, it even makes a lot of sense to buy 2 sets so you have 2 MXL 603s and 2 MXL 2001s. It would be VERY common to use a pair of 603s as stereo overhead mics on a drum kit or to mic a piano in stereo.

One area that people often neglect when getting started is their "arsenal" of microphones. There are so many on the market and this set by Marshall is an ideal way to start filling you mic cabinet with a variety of tools. After all, what good is a sophisticated studio setup with low quality mics? These are serious mics and the price point is almost hard to believe. I have used both mics and they delivered a full, transparent sound. Mic stand adapters are included but you will have to buy your mic cables separately.

That brings me to my other news. We are also now a dealer for Mogami mic cables. This is high quality, market leading stuff folks! Great cables in a variety of lengths and at prices that will suit your budget. EVERY piece in the "recording chain" is important and good mic cables truly DO sound better. I remember learning this lesson well. I was in a hurry and didn't have much money in my pocket (hey-typical musician right!). I ran in to a local music store and bought the least expensive mic cable I could find. When I got to the studio, it sounded so thin that I thought there was something wrong with the mic. I tried a different cable and all was well. That will teach me to waste time and money on inferior product. Hopefully, I learned that lesson for you too!

Check our Mic dept for more info on these and other fine mics at great prices!

Get our entertaining new Widget called Daily Guitar Jam.

Visit studioA recording studio and Other World Computing's new audio showroom by appointment - email: rogerad@macsales.com

For all your audio/music needs, macsales.com/music online.

Subscribe to the "Rock Your Computer" PodCast.

Browse and read other 'Music on the Mac' articles by Roger posted online.

See how Roger created The Garage Album CD at The Garage Album website.

Interact with Roger and other Apple Music/Audio users in our online music and audio forums.

About our Music Guru:
Roger Adler is a four-time Emmy nominated composer, producer, and performer. He is an endorser and clinician for the iGuitar by Brian Moore Guitars and his work is recognizable in over 1000 television commercials. Adler performed at the Presidential Inaugural Ball in Washington D.C. as recently as 2005 and his recordings include appearances on the Groundhog Day feature film soundtrack and The Garage Album. He is widely recognized for his role as Music director for the A&E television series "The Best of Comic Relief" starring Robin Williams, Billy Crystal, and Whoopi Goldberg and for 16 years as Music Director for the popular series "Wild Chicago." Adler is the owner of two recording studios serving the professional entertainment industry, i^3 audio at North Pier in Chicago and studioA at Lakeside Legacy Arts Park in Crystal Lake, IL. In addition to facilitating the Daily Guitar Jam Widget, Adler produces the popular Podcast Show "Rock Your Computer" which broadcasts to an international audience via Apple's iTunes Music Store.
Closing:
Time to get a move on. This was originally started on Thursday and dated so... thought I'd get it done on Friday... and now it's Saturday that finally getting this wrapped up.

Half my problem is that I tend to rewrite half the newsletter each time I restart. And admittedly, that might cause some issues as occasionally what I type isn't necessarily the complete thought intended. But anyway, my intent is to get you information that I hope hits a purpose. Ideally, it's written without error or typo. I ask for your tolerance for the occasional shortcoming.

Summer is over, the leaves here are changing color and falling, and the temperatures are dropping. The day is far from over though and this happens to be gem of Saturday. With this newsletter edition over, I am off to join my Wife and Son (already 15 months old and well into trouble) to make the best of this beautiful day.

I hope your weekend has been a good one and the same for the days that follow. As always, thank you reading our Tips n' Deals newsletter!

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