The iKey in its first incarnation, the one pictured and described in this review, is high on my "cool gadgets" list. It's the kind of device I've wanted for many years. Yes, there's an analog chain involved, but if you can tell the difference between an audio CD and a 256kbps MP3 file, then you have superhuman hearing.
Because the LEDs on top serve at least three different purposes, it takes a good read or two of the manual and a few practice runs to master its operation. After that, it's smooth sailing. The bottom of the iKey is completely blank white plastic. I think they should've put a "cheat sheet" operational sticker on it.
If you're like me and have a huge collection of vinyl and tapes you're aching to digitize and preserve as MP3s, or you're a podcaster, or DJ, I think you'll love the iKey. It wouldn't be hard to think of a hundred ways to use it. The upcoming Plus version answers every little nit I could pick with the current model, but again, it'll be a while before it hits store shelves. So grab this one now and enjoy. When the Plus comes along, just sell the original or give it to a friend if you want the Plus model's additional features.
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| Pros |
Rip ANY audio source to high quality MP3s or WAV files
Compact, lightweight, solid build, feature-packed
Run off AC or AA batteries
Rip in real-time to virtually any USB device
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| Cons |
Needs better metering, and monitoring jack
Requires additional cables, adapters or splitters depending on intended use
Writes MP3s with no ID3 tags (nature of the beast)
Slight lag when REC button is pressed |
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Read Merciful by Casey Adolfsson
