USB Talking Parrot

Here is one of those gadgets that looks cool, but will soon become irritating; in other words the perfect stocking filler...

The USB Talking Parrot as the name suggests is a USB powered parrot that you do not need to feed or clean up after. Just like the real thing, the USB Talking Parrot repeats words and phrases that it hears on a regular basis. Not sure how many words and phrases it remembers and repeats, but for around $20, it’s not that expensive for a stocking filler.

Do you know someone that you would like to annoy? This could be the perfect gift.

ads from Shopzilla

Source: Ubergizmo

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The New EOS Rebel XSi from Canon

If you are in the market for a digital SLR then you might want to hold off for a month or so, as the new Canon EOS Rebel XSi is set to hit stores in April.

The new EOS Rebel XSi incorporates some of canon’s high end functions found on more expensive models. The Rebel XSi has an improved autofocus sensor, enhanced 14-bit A/D conversion, an advanced Live View function, and the proprietary DIGIC III image processor. Compared to the EOS XTi model, the XSi comes with a larger 3 inch LCD, larger 230,000 pixel screen and a 12.2 megapixel APS-C size Canon CMOS sensor.

For the first time in their entry level digital SLR, the Rebel XSi gets Enhanced Live View, which was previously only available on the EOS-1D Mark III Professional Digital SLR. Live View allows users to frame shots through the LCD screen rather than the viewfinder, just like those compact cameras that you are familiar with.

The Rebel XSi will be priced around of $799.99 for the body only and $899.99 for the kit that will come with a new EF-S18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS zoom lens.

Looking at the specs, this camera will definitely be worth a second look when it hits the streets

Source: Canon Press Release

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Get Your Valentine a Pink iPod Nano

No sooner have we got Christmas out of the way, we now have to turn our attention to Valentines Day. Those kind folks over at Apple have already made it easy for you guys out there.

Stuck for a Valentines gift; then go ahead and order one of the new pink 8GB iPod Nano’s. This is the same 3rd generation Nano that retails for $199 and Apple are even throwing in FREE engraving (they are so generous!).

Stay tuned for more Valentines ideas.

Source: Apple

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Christmas Countdown Day 21 Nanopet iPod Nano Case

If you kid has a third generation iPod Nano, then take a look at these cool looking Nano cases. The Nanopet range from Boomwave will dress up that iPod Nano into a cool looking Nanopet. Available in Black, White, Pink and Red to you and me or Spitzer, Bichpoo, Pink and Bludhound to your kid.

The Nanopet cases comes with screen protector and a neck strap and at just $15.99 this would make a great stocking filler

Holiday Gift Rating: 4 Stars

Source: Boomwave via Gizmodo

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Christmas Countdown Day 20 SlingShot 100 All Weather Digital Camera Backpack

If by any chance you have purchased a digital SLR as a Christmas present, then this unique functional backpack, should also find its way under the tree. The SlingShot 100 All Weather Digital Camera Backpack uses a unique sling design which allows you to quickly go from ‘carry mode’ to ‘get ready to take a picture’ mode in seconds.

You simply rotate the backpack and you are ready to remove your camera. The SlingShot 100 AW holds an SLR with mid-range zoom lens attached, 1-2 extra lenses, cables and accessories, and has a full access lid to make loading it a snap. It comes with a built in microfiber LCD cloth to protect the LCD from camera strap, nicks, and scratches.

At just $45 this is a great buy to ensure that new digital camera gets taken care of.

Holiday Gift Rating: 4 Stars

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Source: Gadgetgrid

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Christmas Countdown Day 19 Clapperboard Alarm Clock

Here is an interesting alarm clock for anyone into movies. This Directors Edition Alarm Clock not only looks like an authentic movie clapperboard, but also works like an authentic movie clapperboard.

The clock displays the usual time and date, but what is interesting about the Digital Clapperboard Alarm Clock is the mechanism to switch the alarm off. Yes, you guessed it; you close the clapper to switch the alarm off. Now that’s different.

It can be wall mounted or placed on a desk and measures in at 185(L) x 225(W) x 26(D). It retails for around $36

Holiday Gift Idea: 3 Stars

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Source: Chinavision via Geekalerts

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Christmas Countdown Day 18 Bravia Home Coffee Roaster

Now I like a good cup of coffee, but I'm not sure I would go out of my way to roast my own beans at home. But for those of you out there, that think home roaster would be cool; check out the Bravi Home Coffee Roaster.

The machine will hold enough beans to make 25 to 30 cups of coffee and with. 15 settings you can find your perfect roast, for that smooth cup of coffee. Burning of the beans is prevented by the rotating drum and the patented ‘Flo Thru’ air ventilation keeps the machine cool to the touch, and separates the chaff from the roasted beans.

The Bravia Home Coffee Roaster retails for around $370\

Holiday Gift Rating: 4 Stars (for the coffee lover)

Source: Daily Gadget

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Christmas Countdown Day 17 Nikon D80 Digital SLR

If you are like me, when you think of consumer digital SLR’s, you probably first think of the Canon Digital Rebel XTi. But over at CNET they just named the Nikon D80 as the best digital SLR for 2007.

Even though it was released in 2006, there was no new competition this year to knock the D80 from the top spot. The Nikon D80 Nikon packs 10 megapixels and gives the user excellent color rendition, noise levels, as well as, extensive features that allow for user customization, and lightening fast performance.

The only thing against the Nikon D80 in my opinion is the price, as it is a couple of hundred dollars more than the canon XTi. But then again, if you are serious about making the move up to digital SLR, then what’s a couple of hundred dollars.

Holiday Gift Rating: 4 Stars

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Source: CNET

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Christmas Countdown Day 15 Amazon Gift Card

Still struggling to find the right tech gift this Christmas; then why not purchase an Amazon Gift Card?

With an Amazon Gift Card you can get them what they've always wanted, even if you don't know what it is.

The gift cards are:
Redeemable for millions of items
Ships for free, never expires
Available in any amount from $5 to $5,000

They are so simple to order and can be shipped in 3 ways:

E-mail an Amazon.com gift card, and we'll send it to the recipient right away.

Choose our beautiful new gift card, and we’ll send it to the recipient in the mail at no extra charge.

Attach a gift card to an e-card, and you can send it now or have it sent up to 14 days later.



Note: we are an affiliate of amazon

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Christmas Countdown Day 15 Stocking Filler 1

Looking for something a little different to fill that stocking this Christmas; well how about this usb powered retro upright vacuum cleaner. Perfect (well almost) for cleaning up those biscuit crumbs around your pc.

Just plug the vacuum into your usb port and vacuum away. When finished, just wrap the cable around the handle, just like the real thing. The usb upright vacuum cleaner is compatible with Windows operating systems.

It certainly has novelty factor… and for a few dollars, it won't break the bank.

Holiday Gift Idea: 3 Stars

Available at drinkstuff.com

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Christmas Countdown Day 14 FlyTech Dragonfly by WowWee

This is a cool gift for your kids. The FlyTech Dragonfly has a 16 inch wingspan and weighs just 1oz. Charge it up and use the 2 channel radio controlled remote to control the wing speed and tail rotor speed. Watch as the Dragonfly soars, dive-bombs, hovers and glides, just like the real thing.

This is the world’s first radio-controlled flying insect and a 20 minute charge using the remote controller will give you about 6 minutes of flying time.

The WowWee FlyTech Dragonfly is ranked number 8 in the Time’s 2007 gadget of the year review and retails for around $40.

Holiday Gift Rating: 4 Stars

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Christmas Countdown Day 13 Attic Radio

Here is another retro device that has made our Christmas Countdown. The Attic Radio has a cool retro design that would look great in any part of your house or apartment. Not only does it have the looks but it should also have the sound with the use of AroundSound technology (that the manufacturer claims ‘eliminates "hot spots" in sound reproduction’).

The Attic radio is designed for your AM/FM listening pleasure and also features a line-in for connecting that mp3 player, that you might find in your Christmas Stocking..

Measuring in at 7.5"w, 5.25"h, 5.75"d, the Attic Radio retails for around $98

Holiday Gift Rating: 3.5 Star

Source: Urban Outfitters

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Christmas Countdown Day 12 a SpaCapsule

OK, so this is for those that just have too much money to burn. The manufacturers of the SpaCapsule claim that it is ‘the most advanced spa and aromatherapy system’ and by looking at it they could be right. Looking like something you would probably see in a Sci-Fi movie the SpaCapsule uses modern technology and healing methods of massage, aromatherapy, and audiovisual relaxation techniques to help you relax.

It measures 104 by 35.5 by 48 inches and the self-contained capsule comes complete with built-in audio and video system with iPod connectivity and a 7-inch LCD monitor and a personal aroma diffuser with over 120 essential oils. Add to that the "secret" pulse-jet technology to give you the most realistic massage experience and you have your own personal spa. Oh, I forgot to mention, you will need to dig deep; as the SpaCapsule costs around $26,170.

Holiday Gift Rating: 1 Star

Source: PCMag

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Christmas Countdown Day 11 Rock Band Special Edition

Rock Band Special Edition for the Xbox 360 will be available over at Amazon this Saturday December 15. This is one of the most highly anticipated games of the year and comes just in time to fit under the Christmas Tree.

So if you are into music and video games this should help satisfy your needs.

The Rock Band Special Edition includes the Xbox 360 game, a guitar controller, drum set, and microphone.

Holiday Gift Rating: 4 Stars

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Christmas Countdown Day 10 Flip Video Ultra Series Camcorder

Here is a cool video camcorder that you can always have close at hand. The Flip Video Ultra Series Camcorder is a simple to use, pocket-sized camcorder with one-touch recording and digital zoom.

It holds up to 60 minutes of full VGA-quality video on 2GB of built-in memory (no tapes or additional memory cards required). It comes with a built in (pull out) USB arm that plugs directly into your computer for easy viewing and sharing and the built-in software lets you easily e-mail videos, upload to YouTube and AOL etc. and you can also capture still photos from video

The Flip Video Ultra Series Camcorder retails for around $149.99

Holiday Gift Idea: 4 Stars

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Christmas Countdown Day 9 Garmin nuvi 360

Never get lost again (probably) with the Garmin nüvi 360 GPS Navigator and Personal Travel Assistant. Not only the nüvi 360 a GPS navigator, it is also multi-media entertainer and tour guide all wrapped into one.

The nüvi 360 comes preloaded with City Navigator NT maps containing detailed road maps throughout the entire United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico, including nearly six million points of interest, including hotels, restaurants, gas stations, ATMs, and attractions.

The Garmin nüvi 360 gives you:
Bluetooth wireless technology, built-in microphone, and speaker for hands-free calls with compatible phones
MP3 player with pre-loaded sample songs and audio books, JPEG picture viewer, travel alarm, and currency converters
2D or 3D views; pre-loaded with most recent Navteq-driven maps for United States, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, and Canada
Turn-by-turn directions with actual street names; real-time traffic and weather info
Super-bright 2.8 x 2.1-inch sunlight-readable color screen
Measures 3.87 x 2.91 x 0.87-inches (WxHxD)
Weighs 5.1 ounces

The nüvi 360 works just as well in your car or as you walk around an unknown town or city.

Holiday Gift Rating: 3.5 Stars

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Christmas Countdown Day 7 Watch Winder

OK, so this is probably a gift you would give someone who has almost everything (as personally, I have never had the need to automatically wind my Seiko watch), or maybe someone that has two automatic ‘self winding’ watches.

The principle is that you take your self winding (the ones that automatically wind as you move your arm during the day) and place it in the winder. Set the desired timer duration and walk away. The watch winder ensures that your watch is always ready for use.

This Belocia model accommodates two watches and will rotate clockwise, auto swap or counter-clockwise that should meet the needs of most automatic watches. The watch has 4 different settings:
Rotate 33 seconds, rest 12 minutes: 300 approximate rotations/day.
Rotate 10 minutes, rest 90 minutes: 660 approximate rotations/day.
Rotate 30 minutes, rest 3 hours: 940 approximate rotations/day.
Rotate 1 hour, rest 3 hours

Holiday Gift Rating: 2 Stars

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Christmas Countdown Day 6 Ultracompact Digital Camera

You can not go wrong giving or receiving a camera on Christmas Day and with such a wide range of options in size and resolution of digital cameras today; here are a couple of options in the ultracompact category.

Ultacompact digital cameras are those that are small enough to fit into shirt pockets but do not skimp on options or photo quality

The Canon PowerShot SD800 IS is one of several ultracompacts from Canon. It is stylish, slim and offers a wide-angle lens with 7.1 megapixels, that according to CNET produces ‘very good photos with a snappy performance’. CNET rate this camera as 7.8 out of 10.
Features of the PowerShot SD800 IS:
Weight 5.3 oz
Measures 3.5 in x 1 in x 2.3 in
Resolution 7.1 megapixels
Light Sensitivity ISO 80, ISO 100, ISO 200, ISO 400, ISO 800, ISO 1600, ISO auto Digital Zoom 4 x
Frame movie mode
Shooting Programs: Snow, Beach, Indoor, Foliage, Aquarium, Fireworks, Underwater, Kids & pets, Digital macro, Portrait mode, Stitch assist, Night snapshot
Shutter Speed 1/1600 sec Min Shutter Speed 15 sec X-sync Speed 1/500 sec
Exposure Metering Spot, Evaluative, Center-weighted Exposure Modes Manual, Program, Automatic Exposure Compensation ±2 EV range, in 1/3 EV steps White Balance Custom, Presets, Automatic White Balance Presets Cloudy, Daylight, Fluorescent, Tungsten light, Fluorescent light (daylight)
Flash Memory 16 MB Flash - SD Memory Card Floppy Drive None Image Storage Type Zoom lens - 4.6 mm - 17.3 mm - F/2.8-5.8 Focal Length 4.6 mm - 17.3 mm Lens

The Canon PowerShot SD800 IS retails for around $240


The Cyber-shot DSC-T20 from Sony is another good option. Again it has a slim sleek design that offers face detection; optional HD output and fast performance. This 8.1 megapixel camera gets 7.4 out of 10 from CNET.
Features of the Cyber-shot DSC-T20:
Weight 4.5 oz
Measures 3.5 in x 0.9 in x 2.2 in
Resolution 8.1 megapixels
Light Sensitivity ISO 80, ISO 100, ISO 200, ISO 400, ISO 800, ISO 1600, ISO 3200 Digital Zoom 2 x
Frame movie mode
Shooting Programs: Snow, Soft, Beach, Fireworks, Landscape, Snap shot, Twilight mode, Hi-speed shutter, High sensitivity, Magnifying glass, Twilight portrait Special effects Sepia, Vivid, Neutral, Black & White
Max Shutter Speed 1/1000 sec Min Shutter Speed 1 sec
Exposure Metering Spot, Multi-segment, Center-weighted Exposure Modes Program, Automatic Exposure Compensation ±2 EV range, in 1/3 EV steps White Balance Presets, Automatic White Balance Presets Flash, Cloudy, Daylight, Incandescent, Fluorescent light (daylight), Fluorescent light (cool white), Fluorescent light (warm white)
Digital video format MPEG VX Still Image Format JPEG
Integrated Memory 31 MB
Flash Memory Memory Stick Duo, Memory Stick PRO Duo

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T20 retails for around $260


Holiday Gift rating: 4 Stars

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Christmas Countdown Day 5 Western Digital Passport 320GB

If you are planning on taking 100’s of photos or videos this Christmas and your current laptop or desktop is running out of space, then Western Digitals latest Passport portable drive could be for you. The Passport series has just been increased to a whooping 320GB.

This small and compact drive gives you:

Plug and play installation
Powered direct by the USB
Small and light weight for portability
Synchronized and secure with WD Sync™ synchronization and encryption software
Windows version gets additional Google software to make searching the drive a breeze
Use with Windows® and Macintosh® computers

If 320GB is too much, Western Digital Passport drives are also available in 60, 80, 120, 160 and 250GB

Holiday Gift Rating: 3 Stars



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Source: Western Digital

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Christmas Countdown Day 4 Samsung BD-UP5000 HD DVD and Blue Ray Player

Just like back in the day when the VHS and Betamax pitched consumer against consumer; history is repeating itself in the current DVD format war. If you are still undecided between HD-DVD versus Blu-Ray HD discs; then why not take a closer look at The Samsung BD-UP5000.

The Samsung BD-UP5000 gives you 1080p, 1080i and 720p HD native resolutions and will playback both HD-DVD and Blu-Ray HD discs. It also features:
HQV video upconversion processing (720p/1080i/1080p)
1080p 24fps playback on Blu-ray and HD DVD
Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD, dts-HD Master Audio support
HDMI version 1.3, Component Video, S-Video and Composite video outputs
16.9 x 3.1 x 12.8 inches ; 9.3 pounds

The only downside to the Samsung BD-UP5000; will not be available for Christmas Day. It will be available at the beginning of Jan 2008 for around $800 You can always print off a picture of the Samsung BD-UP5000 and wrapped it up…

Holiday Gift Idea: 3.5 Stars

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Source: TFTS

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