/ 12 March 2013

Gadget review: Speaker dock, clock safe and Nike’s SportWatch GPS

The Nike+ watch uses a standard LCD display and TomTom GPS functionality to monitor your pace
The Nike+ watch uses a standard LCD display and TomTom GPS functionality to monitor your pace

Marantz Consolette Premium Speaker Dock
The Marantz Consolette Premium Speaker Dock offers various networking options that allow for wireless streaming from just about any tablet, smartphone or computer. It also has a built-in iPod dock and USB and auxiliary line-in. The speaker offers 150 watts of sound, which is delivered through individual woofers, tweeters and mid-tone speakers. Six internet radio presets allow you to listen to music even when you don't have a music device present.

Expect to pay: R16 000

Stockists: Contact HFX Systems on 011 907 9092, who will put you in contact with your nearest dealer.

Clock Safe
Got something to hide? Consider this nifty location for your secret stash. The normal working clock face of this inconspicuous hideout conceals a generous hollow space in which to keep private or valuable belongings. Powered by one AA battery, the lightweight unit features three compartments in the camouflaged chamber and three peg holes at the rear for secure wall hanging.

Expect to pay: R360

Stockists: Order online from www.mantality.co.za.

Nike+ SportWatch GPS Limited Edition
The Nike+ SportWatch GPS Limited Edition uses a standard LCD display and TomTom GPS functionality to monitor your pace, time and location. It also tracks and records your heart rate and calories burned. These details can then be synchronised with an iPhone or iPad, where a detailed history is given and daily goals can be set. Logging onto the Nike+ website allows you to compare your statistics with friends and, if you really have to, you can post your daily data to Twitter or Facebook.

Expect to pay: R1 899, but it can be bought using FNB eBucks.

Stockists: Visit www.ebucks.co.za to place your order.

FLD 10" tablet carry bag
Using a sleeve for your tablet offers some protection against scratches and minor bumps. But what happens when the bundle slips out of your hand and crashes onto concrete? Chances are you will end up with a cracked screen. Bring on the FLD 10" tablet carry bag. The bag is made from water-resistant nylon, which is reinforced with a PVC backing, making it durable and able to protect your tablet when it hits the ground. The bag is also easy to carry as it has a handle and a detachable shoulder strap. Cables and chargers can also be stowed in the two separate compartments.

Expect to pay: R499 for the 10" tablet bag. Larger sizes are available for Ultrabooks and very small notebooks.

Stockists: Visit www.fld.co.za to find a retailer closest to you.

Gammatek BoostCase Hybrid
Although the iPhone 4 is easy to use and looks great, it does have a flaw, like its battery life. Or should we say, lack thereof. Numerous third-party accessories are available to extend the iPhone 4's battery life. Although they do a good job, they are known to ruin the look of iPhone. However, the BoostCase Hybrid from Gammatek increases battery life, protects the phone from bumps and scratches while maintaining the phone's appearance.

It is available in a range of colours and includes an extended 1 900mAh battery that charges the iPhone's battery when it starts running low. Admittedly, the iPhone will be slightly bulkier – but it is a small price to pay for an iPhone with a battery that will last twice as long.

Expect to pay: R799. Different coloured cases retail for R149.

Availability: Visit www.gammatek.co.za for a stockist in your area – Gadget.co.za

Follow Sean Bacher on Twitter on @SeanBacher and Gadget on @GadgetZA