Probably one of the coolest instruments I have seen in a long time.
tools
Meteor Mic – USB Studio Microphone
Amazing. I definitely want one of these. It even works with the iPad. Learn all about it and there is even a video too on samsontech.com
Image from samsontech.com
U-Lock Wrench
Simple and effective. This is what good design is all about. “This astoundingly innovative #15 wrench fits perfectly on end of any Kryptonite Evolution (orange) or Series 2 (gray) U-Lock. With the leverage of the “U” removing a wheel has just become impossibly easy. No extra tools needed to change a flat on the fly.” $29.99 from missionbicycle.com
Image from missionbicycle.com
DIY PVC Dolly For Video Photography
Got to love the DIY crowd. Martin Taylor put together a pretty sweet rig. Using epoxy, PVC pipe and rollerblade wheels this looks like it could be a pretty cheap but effective set up. Check out diyphotography.net for the complete instructions and demo video shot using the slider.
Image from diyphotography.net
jakpak
What an amazing design concept. The video is a little cheesy (not sure who would take this to the game) but a great idea non the less. You get a “Waterproof rain jacket, sleeping bag and tent” all in one for $249. See more (plus the video) at jakpak.com
Adobe Raw – DNG Converter
What is a DNG converter. For any of you photographers out there that shoot raw, Adobe had put out a universal raw format called DNG (Digital Negative). The Adobe DNG Converter, a free utility that converts files from more than 300 cameras to DNG, enables you to easily convert camera-specific raw files to a more universal DNG raw file. So why would I use this you might ask yourself. Well, this has become a little work around in the time being for me while my new camera is not supported by my old Adobe Camera Raw software. The converter is super easy to use and I have no problem opening the DNG files. The only issue I have had so far is ACR writing xml files for the DNG’s (I probably have to play with it a little more). Get the converter FREE at adobe.com
Image from adobe.com
Bear Grylls Ultimate Survival Kit
Priced at $51.99 this would be a perfect survival pack and it’s designed really well. Check it out at bear.gerbergear.com
Image from bear.gerbergear.com
Swiss Army Reserve Kindling Axe
I randomly saw this but love the rough vintage axe. The axes are “new but never issued, Swiss Army Kindling Axe has been in storage for decades.” For whatever reason these things were never polished- “Crude looking and a bit ugly– expect dings and dents…They simply don’t make them like this anymore.” Maybe it’s because I have been using my fireplace lately and been chopping wood and making kindling… maybe not. Either way these things just look cool on top of being a quality tool. $35 from garrettwade.com
site of the week: evernote
So I heard about this note taking app on a podcast I was recently listening to and thought I would check it out. Evernote is a free note taking app that lets you add pictures, voice recordings and webpages. What’s amazing is “Everything you capture is automatically processed, indexed, and made searchable. If you like, you can add tags or organize notes into different notebooks.” Write notes from the web page, the computer or phone app (all the major smartphones are covered) giving you access anywhere. This is super easy to use and I really like it.There are also a ton of apps that will sync with evernote to make your note taking and lists easier. Check it out at evernote.com