CES 2013: Griffin Technology makes music, listens to it

CES is when many hardware companies unveil their wares for 2013, and Griffin Technology is not about to be left out of the fun. Along with Crayola and Nickelodeon licensed accessories, as well as a new waterproof iPhone case and various charging accessories, the company is unveiling the StudioConnect with Lightning, DJ Connect, Mic Stand Mount and MicConnect music accessories, as well as new styles in their WoodTones headphone line.

From the press releases:

Studio Connect with Lightning

Leading the lineup is StudioConnect with Lightning, Griffin’s popular all-in-one audio interface for music creation on the iPad, now compatible with the new iPad (4th generation) and iPad mini. StudioConnect provides connectivity for guitars, stereo audio, MIDI-In and MIDI-Out as well as a Lightning charging dock in one compact device. It also features line-level RCA stereo output and stereo headphone output with separate volume control. With StudioConnect, digital music-making has never been easier, combining both audio and MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) recording into one convenient accessory.

DJ Connect

Similar to Griffin’s best-selling DJ Cable, the new DJ Connect offers DJs a way to pre-cue their music and beat-mix. Designed specifically to work with algoriddim’s award-winning djay and vjay apps, the DJ Connect allows user to have the ultimate mobile DJ experience. DJ Connect has the added benefits of volume control, dual separate stereo outputs and detachable cables for use with iOS devices with 30-pin dock connectors and Mac computers with USB ports. Compatibility with Lightning devices is planned as well.

Mic Stand Mount

Griffin’s Mic Stand Mount for iPad, $39.99, easily screws onto a standard microphone stand enabling users to raise and lower the iPad to the perfect height. Fully adjustable, the Mic Stand Mount rotates and locks into either portrait or landscape view, and tilts up to 90 degrees. To protect the iPad, rubber inserts securely grip the device on all four sides holding it in place without blocking the controls, dock connector or audio jack.

MicConnect

Griffin is also introducing MicConnect, a microphone interface for iPad, iPhone and iPod touch.  Intuitive to use, simply connect a mic to the XLR input on the MicConnect and plug the 1/8” (3.5mm) audio cable into an iOS device’s headphone jack and launch GarageBand or other compatible apps to get rocking. MicConnect’s phantom power feature even accommodates studio microphones for high-quality recordings. Not only compatible with microphones, MicConnect also makes it possible to record amplifiers, acoustic instruments, and more right into GarageBand. MicConnect retails for $39.99 and will be available in June 2013.

Headphones:

WoodTones Headphones with Control Mic, $99.99, feature plush ear pads to isolate outside distractions and ensure comfort, allowing users to wear them for extended periods without fatigue. The new over the ear headphone model boasts a 50mm moving coil driver for superior sound quality in a uniquely attractive wooden housing. A detachable 1/8” (3.5 mm) cable and fold-flat earcups provide users with easy travel and storage, while a built-in mic allows users to take calls, interact with Siri and control audio playback. WoodTones Headphones with Control Mic will be available February 2013.

WoodTones Earbuds with Control Mic, $29.99, feature soft silicone ear cushions available in three sizes, a 1/8” (3.5 mm) gold-plated connector, and four feet of smooth, black TPE-coated cable to give users room to move around. WoodTones earbuds are packaged inside a drawstring pouch made of natural hemp fiber.

Griffin’s WoodTones AUX Cable, $14.99, will feature gold-plated 1/8” (3.5 mm) connectors and three feet of black TPE-coated cable to resist kinking and tangling. This great-looking AUX cable provides a direct connection from a set of headphones or line-out jack to the stereo’s AUX-in jack producing the best possible sound. It can be used with any iPod, iPhone, iPad or other media player with a headphone or 1/8” (3.5mm) audio jack. The AUX cable also comes with its own hemp drawstring pouch for easy transport. WoodTones AUX cable will be available February 2013.

Those attending CES in Las Vegas this week can check out Griffin’s full 2013 lineup at in the LVCC North Hall, at Booth 5212.