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g0thike Special user 722 Posts |
Jason,
Im glad that your a Café Member, is the USB remote going to eventually support WINAMP. You should read this whole thread and maybe you'll get some ideas. Also, can the AirClick control a MiniDisk player? I read a rumor in some forum. G0THIKE |
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glodmagic Special user USA 501 Posts |
When is availability Jason?
This appears to be exactly what we as magicians have been looking for. iPods have just annouced a price drop (just under 200. ) on the 4G model so your product at 40. this truly is a high performance "Poor mans remote control cue" system at way less than dedicated control systems.
Remember ANY of your posts here can be Googled by your customers and Clients. Just entering your name in Google can bring up your negative comments that stay for years!
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Majiloon Regular user 135 Posts |
Walter-
These little $40 iPod remotes are junk- none of the 3 manufacturers know anything about stage environemnts or the challeges for the live performer- so you will not have the features you need- and the dependability that is required for your live performance. Aside from that-these remotes are model specific- they very well may not be compatible with the next generation iPod. THey use an interface that is cloned from the inteface of the recent iPod. unfortunately- iPod has a bad habit of changing the interface - 3 changes in the last 5 versions that they introduce. So if you get a new iPod in a year- there is not gaurunty that this remote you buy now will work. All three of these units use a OEM keybob transmitter that I have already worked with and could design a reciever to match it with the power rating they use for the receiver- for $40- but - but its still junk- This is just a AM cheap-out remote that is in no way appropriate for the professional- It does not have the features required - nor do they have the power to handle the job. If you want more specifics- then you can give me a call- but I will not educate these poeple by publishing a lesson plan on line. Cheers- Kelly Duro
No longer taking Private messages , thank you.
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g0thike Special user 722 Posts |
Kelly,
The name of this thread is "Poor Man’s Remote Control Sound Cue" which means an affordable way to cue your own sound. Some of us magicians are starving students, hobbyist, doing birthday parties to make some money to pay the bills or broke. We can not afford your VSM and for the magicians that may get one stage show a year your device is not an option. If I had a National Tour or Vegas contract, I would buy your VSM, actually I would have a sound guy. I know the remotes are AM since they are small but it is radio frequencies and it’s a step up from IR. I also know that I can’t stand 100 feet and trigger a cue but I will settle for 30-60 feet, depending on any interference. Your remote is FM and a better signal, design and other stuff but I personally don’t have $800.00 to send to your bank account. As for the $40.00 Griffin Technology IPod RF remote, If it can trigger an IPOD at 30 feet I am a happy camper. It may not have auto fade, an LCD display, all the bells and whistles but I am happy. Maybe Jason will fill us in on the changing IPOD Interface? Jason? G0THIKE |
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G. Batson Regular user 147 Posts |
Quote:
On 2005-02-26 21:40, Majiloon wrote: Pretty bold statement coming from someone who has never even used one. Quote:
Aside from that-these remotes are model specific- they very well may not be compatible with the next generation iPod. Let's wait to find out before making such a statement. Quote:
So if you get a new iPod in a year- there is not gaurunty that this remote you buy now will work. I'll spend another $40 if needed to "upgrade". Your system offers no such upgrade. I would have to ditch the initial investment and start all over with your stuff. Showtek allows an upgrade path to retain your initial investment. Quote:
This is just a AM cheap-out remote that is in no way appropriate for the professional- Hmmm. I thought you also sold AM remotes. And I agree with the originator of this thread. There are plenty people reading this that could benefit. G. (wondering why Kelly always thinks *his* is the only solution???) |
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bloodyjack Veteran user Seattle WA 343 Posts |
M R 2 guy
I woild like to see your response to this slam. looking on the web site the RF frequency used is 433.92MHz This is more than likly FM, anyway I would trust a product that is being sold to the masses more than I would something from a small independant maufacturer for the magic community. There are very tough FCC laws on RF and EMC and this product will have been through all these tests. Does the other thing mentioned have the required FCC tests and labeling on it? Has it gone through EMC tests? Has it got the tougher CE testing to sell in europe? I don't know the answer but I would go with the 40 bucks and my I-pod thank you very much
"sir i sent you half the kidne i took from one woman prasarved it for you tother piece i fried and ate it was very nise i may send you the bloody knif that took it out if you only wate a whil longer"
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Majiloon Regular user 135 Posts |
Excuse me gothick-
But this forum is for everyone- If I have a perspective on technical issues- and I have the time to spend - then I tend leave them- whether there are ‘your’ thread or not, just as you have seen fit to invade my threads. As for mr-batson- I am an electronic – radio engineer- I said that I have used these remotes- I have literally built systems to match them- I have worked with AM remotes- raw AM transmitters daughter boards and the separate ELECTRONIC COMPONENTS -made from various companies from around the world. I make it my business to know what type of devices are available and research/develop compatible radio prototypes. Do you know how many types of low power AM transmitter or receiver daughter boards and pre made components are out there? You have no idea- When I say AM remote- in this case and in any case that I have seen exposed in this industry- I know where they come from- and what they are made with- but there are several other AM components that are available- that are far superior to what has been used like in these set-ups. You have no idea- If I use an AM system- then it is the best in its class at least 4 times over- i.e. dual superHet SAW controlled with a sensitively of at least –106db, and rated at least with 6 volts for the receiver- and not like the 3 volt system used in these $40 iPod remotes. And I would never put my receiver 2 inches away from the internal EMF created by the HDD within a device like an iPod. You comments on My Upgrades- are absolute false- no- it’s a lie- like many other part-truths that I find represented in some of these threads. I have given customers credit for trade-ins within reason. I give my customers software upgrades regularly- even customizing chips to meet the needs of my customers, as I have for years. I couldn’t care less if you want to buy these- and if you somehow think that I am threatened by these iPod RF remotes- you’re wrong- and you’re wrong to assume that I somehow I am amused by your utter disrespect. As for whether I think MY device is the only solution- is childish comment- I actually have respect for Kerry- and after ripping open one of his systems- I have a better understanding of what he had to go through to make his system. I have stated so in my report. I have in fact referred several people to him. Once again-You don’t know what you’re talking about. He and I can stand united & confident that our systems were developed and uniquely crafted to meet the challenges of the busy professional or those who want to be one. If your not one of those 2 categories- then I couldn’t care less what you do- it is these 2 categories that I care a great deal.
No longer taking Private messages , thank you.
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bloodyjack Veteran user Seattle WA 343 Posts |
Majiloon
Do your products carry the required FCC tests and labeling on them?
"sir i sent you half the kidne i took from one woman prasarved it for you tother piece i fried and ate it was very nise i may send you the bloody knif that took it out if you only wate a whil longer"
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JamesinLA Inner circle Los Angeles 3400 Posts |
I looked into the IR to RF remote converter. It will work with any IR remote that takes AAA or AA batteries. The way it works is that one of the two IR remote batteries is replaced with an RF transmitter and a rechargeable, short battery. This combo of transmitter and short battery takes the place of one of the normal batteries. The unit comes with two such short, recharable batteries. The only snag is that they don't sell the batteries seperately! At least not yet. The guy was very unconvincing as if they ever would sell the batteries seperately. I also couldn't get much info on whether or not the recharable batteries suffer from "memory effect" like a laptop battery does. I'd hate to have to buy a whole new unit in a few months just to replace the batteries.
I wonder if there are other IF to RF converters out there that don't have this problem? Jim
Oh, my friend we're older but no wiser, for in our hearts the dreams are still the same...
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G. Batson Regular user 147 Posts |
Quote:
On 2005-02-27 16:22, bloodyjack wrote: Interesting question, Bloodyjack. Is the "user" in violation of any law if using a device that does *not* pass required FCC tests? G. |
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Avocat Elite user 446 Posts |
Quote:
On 2005-03-01 17:37, JamesinLA wrote: If it's the same device I have, then rechargeable 2/3-AAA batteries are available online from various sources. I checked, but didn't note the links, figuring they'll have changed by the time I'll need one. But they're a separate product and available. I've actually found this device works very well with a small JVC CD stereo (just leave the speakers at home). I trimmed off all the "offending" buttons from the remote, leaving only the play/pause, next, last and volume control buttons protruding. The result is a remote that slips perfectly into my pants change pocket where it stays properly aligned and where I can easily find and press the correct buttons through the fabric. No hands in pockets, nothing on my belt, the only thing lacking is autofade+skip. And an LED. But at less than one tenth the price, it's a workable poor man's sound cue. |
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JamesinLA Inner circle Los Angeles 3400 Posts |
Avocat,
Thanks for your answer. Now that I know the batteries are available and your positive experience using it, I'm going to order it. I don't need the auto fade because I mix all my tracks myself before burning to CD to have fades already if needed. Although, not as flexable it's good enough for now. Thanks. Jim
Oh, my friend we're older but no wiser, for in our hearts the dreams are still the same...
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MR2Guy Regular user Nashville 179 Posts |
I thought it would be time to give you some more details on the AirClick remote for iPods, and to clear up some, shall I say, misconceptions.
Quote:
When is availability Jason? We should be shipping in around 4 weeks. We have a lot of preorders, so no guarantees on delivery if you have not preordered. Quote:
Absolutely. You must register your products with the FCC, and CE if you sell globally, which we do. Without FCC approval, those boys can take you house, car, first born, and your original copy of The discoverie of Witchcraft without blinking an eye. The FCC means business. Quote:
These little $40 iPod remotes are junk. We only have a precious few factory units at this time, and I don't think I've sent you one for evaluation yet, One unit went to NBC's Today show for a segment on cool iPod peripherals a couple of days ago, but I will happily send you a unit once it becomes available. This is not the proper thread for me to talk about the inferior competition, but I do agree, some are engineered better than others. Quote:
All three of these units use a OEM keybob transmitter that I have already worked with and could design a reciever to match it with the power rating they use for the receiver- for $40- but - but its still junk We designed the transmitter from the ground up, including the enclosure. We have design artists too, as we feel that the overall look, feel and ease of use of of the product is equally important. This is by no means an OEM keybob. We have never "worked with" cheap Tawainese knock off products. Quote:
This is just a AM cheap-out remote that is in no way appropriate for the professional- The AirClick is not an AM remote, it's FM, (technically it's ASK, if it's really any of your business) and I'm at a loss to understand what "appropriate for the job" means. I've explained the feature set, and the power/range that the AirClick achieves. I will be happy to give a lesson plan online for anyone that is interested in electronics. Quote:
I would trust a product that is being sold to the masses more than I would something from a small independant maufacturer for the magic community. Good point, whereas I won't comment regarding what kind of quantites we sell, we have found it much easier and enjoyable to sell cool products that are not "cheap junk". It's a win/win situation. Quote:
I am an electronic – radio engineer We have several in house, we can decompile an audio's remote protocol in a couple of hours, if need be. As I said, we work very closely with Apple, so we know the drill on iPods circuitry. They are one of our best customers, and we sell our products in every brick and mortar store, as well as their web site, in addition to our Worldwide distributors, and in the US in places like Circuit City, Target, Best Buy RadioShack, etc. We can get around designing circuit boards. Did I mention the AirClick is $40? I have not tested your unit, and I would imagine that it works for the most part as advertised, passes FCC regulations and you have a customer base who is pleased. I would _never_ make accusations regarding your product without testing it first. Professionals do indeed need a solid audio unit, and I would assume since it's constructed from kit boxes that can be readily bought anywhere, that the expense that goes into them are for your engineering expertise, and not on the "details" of fit, finish, look, or feel of the product. I just hope your engineering skills are better than your web site design skills. I am always open to hearing from performers with feedback on features that they feel would enhance the AirClick remote to better suit their performing needs, and as far as "me not knowing anything about stage environemnts or the challeges for the live performer, I've toured colleges, night clubs, conventions, birthday parties, corporate events, and street magic, so I think I have a bit of insight as to what a working professional requires out of a remote audio solution. So if the demand is there, I would gladly consider an AirClick Pro version with an extended feature set. Majiloon, I am going to give you a piece of advice and I recommend you think about it because I'm actually trying to help. Even in vertical markets, if you gouge your customers, (and, in my opinion, you are), you are begging for competition. If you attack manufacturers with more skills, resources and distribution channels than yourself with statements that border on libel, sometimes a manufacturer will sit up and take notice. I wish you well in your business. Take care jason
Question every rule.
There are no absolutes. |
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Regan Inner circle U.S.A. 5726 Posts |
Quote:
On 2005-03-02 22:42, JamesinLA wrote: Jim, What type of CD player are you using? Thanks. Regan
Mister Mystery
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glodmagic Special user USA 501 Posts |
Excellent Post, Jason, addresses all of our concerns.
I JUST PLACED MY ORDER ! (at http://griffintechnology.com/products/airclick/index.php ) At $40. this is a great backup to have (if not a primary show controller). Nobody has mentioned how tiny the unit is and how it simply becomes part of the iPod. Ship mine out ASAP and I will post a review!
Remember ANY of your posts here can be Googled by your customers and Clients. Just entering your name in Google can bring up your negative comments that stay for years!
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JamesinLA Inner circle Los Angeles 3400 Posts |
[quote]On 2005-03-03 07:23, Regan wrote:
Quote:
Oh, my friend we're older but no wiser, for in our hearts the dreams are still the same...
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Natural Mystic Special user Atlanta, GA 509 Posts |
Jason,
Would the USB configuration of the AirClick work with WinAmp?
"You never change the existing reality by
fighting it. Instead, create a new model that makes the old one obsolete." -- R. Buckminster Fuller |
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Regan Inner circle U.S.A. 5726 Posts |
Quote:
On 2005-03-03 17:06, JamesinLA wrote: Thanks Jim! Regan
Mister Mystery
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JamesinLA Inner circle Los Angeles 3400 Posts |
Guys,
I know nothing about the ipod, but how much would it be to put together an ipod system? I assume it would have to plug it into an amp of some sort correct? My Mipro amp I use mostly for my voice. I have run a walkman CD player through my Mipro a couple times but there's no way to really control base or treble. What do you think would be the cost of a usable and portable amp/speaker and an ipod combo? Thanks. Jim
Oh, my friend we're older but no wiser, for in our hearts the dreams are still the same...
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glodmagic Special user USA 501 Posts |
4Gig iPod $199.
http://www.apple.com/ipodmini/ If your boombox has a cassette you can use a cassette interface ($7.) OR Amplifier recommendions are all over the place. Do you need it battery powered? do you need a wireless receiver built in? Look on ebay for an Anchor AN130 The iPod has a built in Equalizer for base treble so try your Mipro first.
Remember ANY of your posts here can be Googled by your customers and Clients. Just entering your name in Google can bring up your negative comments that stay for years!
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