iLounge

Argentine leather case maker Vaja has released Retro, a new series of stitched-stripe cases for iPods, iPhones, and the MacBook Air. The cases start at $39 and include:

Retro Slim Bag for iPhone ($39, shown): A sleeve-like case with an open top. An alternate version called Retro Slim Jacket for the MacBook Air sells for $180, and closes like an envelope to protect the computer.

Retro Dockable for iPhone ($75): A flip-style case with a bottom design that allows the iPhone to be docked in Apple’s included Dock without removing the case.

Top Retro with Hook for iPod nano 3G ($65): A flip-style case with a metal lobster claw hook at the top for attachment to a belt or clothing. Here, the front stripe is matched by colored and stitched side leather pieces, as well.

The Retro cases improve upon a version shown briefly last year. Models for the iPod classic and iPod touch have not yet been announced or released.

Monster has begun shipping its Monster iSoniCast Wireless Audio Bridge for iPod. The iSoniCast is a two-piece wireless audio bridge that allows users to enjoy music from their iPod over a home stereo system. It uses 2.4GHz wireless transmissions for extended control range and better sound quality, uses intelligent frequency hopping to minimize interference, and offers 4Mbps streaming to eliminate compression artifacts often seen in competing wireless technologies. “Monster’s highly successful family of iPod accessories has a new addition,” explained Noel Lee, The Head Monster. “The Monster iSoniCast Wireless Audio Bridge not only connects the iPod to your home stereo system, but you can use the iPod itself to control music playback on your home stereo wirelessly, with full access to all the familiar iPod controls.” The Monster iSoniCast for iPod is available now and sells for $100.

Numark has introduced its TTi turntable, which offers direct recording to iPod or a computer. The TTi features an integrated Universal iPod Dock, and can record directly to the fifth-generation iPod, iPod classic, and the second- and third-generation iPod nano. Included software lets the TTi record directly to a user’s iTunes Library via the USB interface, and also reduces pops and clicks found on some old vinyl recordings. Other features include line-level output, pitch control, and a metal platter. The Numark TTi will be available in the second quarter of 2008 and will sell for $450.

Digital Lifestyle Outfitters has introduced its new VideoShell case for the iPod nano (with video).  The VideoShell is a hard-shell case made from protective polycarbonate that features a kickstand in the rear of the case for hands-free video viewing. The stand elevates and holds the nano without limiting access to the dock connector and headphone jack, and the case also features a beveled opening for access to the Click Wheel, as well as complete open access to the Dock Connector, headphone jack, and hold switch. "With its extra-strong polycarbonate outer shell and unique kickstand, the DLO VideoShell for nano combines supreme functionality with solid protection from everyday nicks and scrapes,” said Marcia Germ, director of product development for DLO.  “The case’s snap-on front ensures that the bottom is unobstructed and free for docking, so you’ll never have to take your nano out of its shell.” The DLO VideoShell for iPod nano (with video) is available now and sells for $20; for more information on the VideoShell check out our review.

RhinoSkin has introduced its new HardCase for the iPod nano (with video). The HardCase is made with a clear, scratch-resistant and shatterproof polycarbonate front and a durable aluminum back. The case also features soft grip sides, access to the device’s screen, Click Wheel, hold switch, headphone jack, and Dock Connector, and an included lanyard. “No matter how big or small the device, RhinoSkin is committed to producing custom fit cases that people can depend on,” noted Kelley Wheeler, marketing manager for RhinoSkin. “People take their iPods nearly everywhere and we want them to be able to protect their investment and enjoy music and video anywhere they go.” The RhinoSkin HardCase for iPod nano (with video) is available now and sells for $25.

GizMac Accessories has announced that it is now shipping its Aluminate case for the iPod nano (with video). Announced in January, the Aluminate is a hybrid case for iPod nano made from a combination of aluminum and polycarbonate. The front of the case is thin, colored aluminum, while the back is clear polycarbonate. Features include built-in screen and Click Wheel protection, and an included lanyard and carabiner clip. “The Aluminate is a good looking and protective iPod case to begin with,” explained Ken Vitto, Marketing Director for GizMac Accessories, “Then we added extra functionality and value as GizMac always does with products we sell.” The GizMac Aluminate case for iPod nano (with video) comes in a pack with two different colors of cases, and is available now for $30. 

Agent 18 has announced the immediate availability of its FlowerVest silicone cases for iPod touch and iPod nano (with video). Both slip-on cases are made from soft silicone, feature floral designs across the back and front, and allow access to the iPod’s screen, headphone jack and Dock Connector; the iPod nano version also has built-in Click Wheel protection. The Agent 18 FlowerVest for iPod touch is available in Brown/Blue or Pink/Pink and sells for $25; the iPod nano version comes in pink, brown, green and gray, and sells for $20. For more information on the Agent 18 FlowerVest for iPod nano, read our review.

Tinbot has introduced its new line of cases for iPod classic and fifth-generation iPod. Tinbot cases are made from tin outer shells, with impact-resistant neoprene lining for added protection. The tin shells feature original designs from well-known contemporary artists; the case is also available in matte white for personal customization. Tinbot cases also feature a swing-open design for access to the iPod’s screen and controls, as well as openings in the case for access to the headphone jack and Dock Connector. Tinbot tin cases for iPod classic and fifth-generation iPod are available now and sell for $30; the matte white model sells for $20.

Incase has introduced its new 2-in-1 Wall & Car Charger for iPod and iPhone. According to Incase, it is the first 2-in-1 iPod and iPhone charger that is both AV and DC compatible. Designed for both wall and car sockets, the charger has a main body with a car adapter on one end, and hideaway wall socket prongs on the side. A 5ft. iPod Dock-connecting cable comes out the back, next to the LED power indicator. In addition, the 2-in-1 is also AC compatible with worldwide voltage capacities, and DC compatible with 12V and 24V power supplies. The Incase 2-in-1 Wall & Car Charger for iPod and iPhone sells for $40 and will be available at Apple retail stores and from the Apple Store online later this month.

Grace Digital has announced its new Lars & Ivan line of high-end audio products, including a new tube amplifier for the iPod. The Hybrid PA-40Ti is a “high performance integrated iPod tube amplifier,” which features a built-in iPod Dock, a four channel input selector, volume control, stereo headphone output, subwoofer output, a remote control, and “high quality” speaker wire connectors. The unit also features a USB port for iPod syncing, as well as video output and the ability to charge the iPod. Output power is rated at 40W RMS. “Most products in this category are either extremely expensive, lack design appeal, or provide poor audio performance,” said Greg Fadul, Grace Digital’s Chief Marketing Officer. “At $449.99 MSRP, the Hybrid Amplifier model 40PaTi offers high end audio performance, unique design and build quality at an affordable price.” To complement the Hybrid amplifier, the company launched two new speaker sets. The Bobo speakers are bookshelf-sized speakers featuring an acrylic front frame and aluminum stand. They will sell for $300/pair, while the Cube S speakers will sell for $500 a pair. The new Lars & Ivan offerings will be available in mid-March.

Tunewear has introduced its new line of Tuneshell hard polycarbonate cases for the iPod touch, iPod classic, and iPod nano (with video). The three models of Tuneshell for iPod nano — Tuneshell, Tuneshell Mirror, and Tuneshell BlackBack — all feature full screen protection, while allowing open access to all ports and controls. The previously announced Tuneshell for iPod nano is made from clear polycarbonate, and includes a lanyard. Tuneshell Mirror features a mirrored front and a matte finished black back plate with built-in clip; Tuneshell BlackBack features the same clip-enabled back, while offering a clear face. Tuneshell for iPod touch is made from clear polycarbonate, offers full access to all ports and controls, including the touch screen, and features holes on the back for attachment of a user-supplied lanyard. Finally, the Tuneshell for iPod classic is available in two sizes to fit both 80GB and 160GB models, is made from clear polycarbonate, and offers built-in screen protection and open access to all ports and controls. Tuneshell for iPod touch, iPod classic, and Tuneshell BlackBack for iPod nano all sell for $25. The standard Tuneshell for iPod nano sells for $20, while Tuneshell Mirror sells for $26. All five cases are available now.

iLive has introduced its new iT188B sound bar-style speaker system for iPod. The iT188B features a remote-controlled, motorized iPod Dock, dual built-in subwoofers, auxiliary input, dual A/V inputs, video output, an AM/FM Radio, a built-in clock, and a full-function remote with iPod controls. “We worked very hard to bring the very best quality sound and functionality with this product,” said Bill Fetter, CEO of DPI, Inc. The iLive iT188B will be available in April for $100 at major retailers including Wal-Mart, Sears, and Target.

GizMac has introduced two new cases for the iPod nano (with video). The Aluminate is a hybrid case for iPod nano made from a combination of aluminum and polycarbonate. The front of the case is thin, colored aluminum, while the back is clear polycarbonate. Features include built-in screen and Click Wheel protection, and an included lanyard and carabiner clip. The DuraSport is a silicone case for the iPod nano featuring Click Wheel protection, a clear plastic face shield for screen protection, side grips, and an included lanyard, carabiner, and armband with velcro closure. “GizMac is quickly expanding our product lines to offer a wider variety of iPod accessories” explained Ken Vitto, Marketing Director for GizMac Accessories. “The Aluminate and DuraSport iPod Nano cases bring more choices to our customers.” The GizMac Aluminate and DuraSport cases for iPod nano will be available in two-packs with attachments, and will sell for $30 when they become available in early February.

Alesis, has introduced three new iPod-compatible audio products, including a new PA system and two new recording devices. The TransActive Mobile is a portable PA system with an integrated iPod Dock. It features features a rechargeable 12-hour battery, aluminum construction, a high-efficiency amplifier, the ability to use music from the iPod as a backing track for attached instruments, and four inputs for connecting microphones, electric or bass guitars, keyboards or CD/MP3 players. TransActive Mobile also includes a professional-quality microphone, and is available now for $599.

The Alesis iMultiMix 16 USB is a tabletop mixer and recorder that features 100 28–bit digital effects, a built–in limiter, and an integrated iPod dock with control wheel transport controls for direct–to–iPod recording. Other features include iPod playback w/mixing capability, four high-gain mic/line preamps, 48V phantom power, 16-Bit / 44.1kHz and 48kHz recording to computer, two guitar mic/line inputs, aux sends and returns, and a 3-band per channel EQ with high/low shelving and mid band pass/reject. The iMultiMix 16 USB includes Steinberg Cubase LE 4 recording software, and will be available in Q2 for $799.

Finally, the Alesis MultiPort is a compact standalone recorder for the iPod. It features built-in level meters, headphone monitoring, integrated iPod controls, balanced inputs, 1/4” stereo outputs, and phantom power. It can also playback from the iPod while recording, and is compatible with iPod classic, fifth-generation iPods, and second- and third-generation iPod nanos. The Alesis MultiPort will also be available in Q2; pricing has yet to be determined.

Bird Electron has introduced its EZ17-B Recycling Speaker for iPod. The EZ17-B is a speaker panel featuring two speakers that is designed to sit flush inside the open end of iPod nano or iPod shuffle packaging. The speaker does not require an external power source, and connects to the iPod via a 3.5mm headphone jack. The Bird-Electron EZ17-B Recycling Speaker for iPod is available now and sells for $40. [via TUAW]

Imoeba has introduced its new Alpine line of environmentally-friendly iPod cases. The cases are made from bonded leather, a man-made material comprised of leather scraps. “Our Alpine iPod cases are ideal for consumers wanting to make more green lifestyle choices,” says Lawrence Leung, Chief Executive of Imoeba. “The look, feel, quality and durability of the cases is as close to genuine leather as you can get, does not harm animals and are incredibly stylish. To top it all off, the packaging is made from 90% recycled and/or recyclable paper, making the Alpine case better for our planet overall.” Featuring a flip-open design with a magnetic closure and a rotating belt clip, the cases allow access full access to the screen, Click Wheel, and headphone jack, and come in either white or green. Imoeba Alpine cases for the iPod nano (with video) and iPod classic are available from bestbuy.com and sell for $20 and $25, respectively.

XtremeMac has introduced its InCharge FM transmitter for iPod. The InCharge FM is designed for in-car use and is compatible with common 12-volt power outlets found in automobiles. It also charges connected iPods, offers stereo/mono modes for optimal transmission, and incorporates PureFM technology by Quintic and other proprietary audio enhancements. An in-line control unit offers a display, tuning and station preset buttons, as well as a play/pause/next track button to allow for quick song selection without using the iPod. “Our first FM transmitter was the first to use an LCD for tuning, and a subsequent version was the first compact unit to use an external antenna,” said CEO Gary Bart. “We have continued that path of innovation by integrating Pure FM technology into InCharge FM.” The XtremeMac InCharge FM transmitter is now available for pre-order and sells for $70; it is expected to begin shipping in the coming weeks.

EzGear has announced several new iPod accessories, including two new alarm clocks, a new speaker system, and a new line of armbands for both the iPod and iPhone. The ezWake WK3 iPod Alarm Clock is a small, iPhone-compatible alarm clock that uses audio components similar to those used in the company’s larger units. It will be available in March for $50. The ezGear XL90 Sound Bar speaker system for iPod incorporates seven speakers — two tweeters, four midrange speakers, and a separate vented sub-woofer — and offers 35 watts of power. Other features include an integrated iPod dock that supports charging, a LCD display, remote control with iPod menu navigation, auxiliary input, a built-in AM/FM radio, and iPhone compatibility. The XL90 Sound Bar will ship in March, and will sell for $300. The ezWake WK10 Alarm Clock Radio for iPod is a 2.1 speaker system with 2 stereo speakers and 1 vented subwoofer, ezTouch controls with a large snooze button, remote control with the ability to navigate all iPod menus, a dimmable display, dual alarms, a line-n jack, AM/FM Radio with 20 presets, and an integrated Universal Dock. The ezGear WK10 Alarm Clock comes in black or white and will sell for $100. Lastly, the company announced its ezGear Ultralight Armbands for the iPod nano (with video), iPod classic, iPod touch, and iPhone. They are made of lightweight breathable neoprene and include a reflective material on the front for safety and a clear screen protector. The ezGear Ultralight Armband line will be available later this month and will sell for $25 each.

ProClip has introduced new in-vehicle Device Holders for the iPhone and iPod touch, iPod classic, and iPod nano (with video). The holders, manufactured by Brodit AB in Sweden, are custom made and device specific, and attach to vehicle specific ProClip dashboard mounts. ProClip holders may also be attached to other manufacturers’ vehicle mounts or any other flat surface, and the Padded Holder with Tilt Swivel tilts 15 degrees in any direction for optimal viewing. “Securely and conveniently mounting handheld devices like the Apple iPod, without damaging a vehicle’s interior, is what we do best,” says Bjorn Spilling, president of ProClip USA. “We offer mounting solutions that are custom designed for virtually every car in the world, and for all popular handheld devices.” ProClip Device Holders for the iPhone, iPod nano (with video), iPod classic, and iPod touch are available now, and sell for $25-$35.

H2O Audio has introduced its iN3 waterproof case for the iPod nano (with video). The iN3 is waterproof up to 10 feet, and features a Commander Click Wheel control that allows full function control of the nano, a LatchTight locking closure that is designed to generate uniform compression for a waterproof seal, a SealTight headphone connector that offers compatibility with 3.5mm headphones and provides a complete waterproof seal when used with H2O Audio waterproof headphones, and an included armband and belt clip. “The 3rd gen nano has added video capability to an enormous playlist capacity in an even sleeker package than its predecessors. Our new iN3 follows Apple’s lead, providing a waterproof case that complements the player’s distinctive style, while providing users the opportunity to surf and swim with their music,” said Kristian Rauhala, CEO of H2O Audio. The H2O Audio iN3 waterproof case for the iPod nano (with video) is available now and sells for $80.