Accessories

IK Multimedia, maker of many things for the mobile musician, has released a new audio gadget, called the iRig Pro DUO. The normal iRig Pro model, which is plenty cool by the way, does have one minor limitation. You can connect a mic or a guitar, but not both. The iRig Pro DUO ($199 MSRP) addresses this with dual input/output channels that allow you to jam out, record, and mix music from vocals and instrument on your iPad, and it has a few other worthy tricks thrown in for good measure.

I've always admired the RUNNUR bandolier-style messenger bags when I've seen them at various tradeshows. At the recent New York City Comicon, I saw RUNNUR's exhibit and noticed an iPad-specific offering, which I was fortunate enough to try. The Shoulder Sling Case ($60) is a nylon case for an iPad or iPad mini, with the screen exposed for easy access. There are four different D-ring metal loops to connect the included padded strap. There's a handy hand grip that also doubles as a stand.

Twelve South has easily become one of my go-to places for fantastic and gorgeous iPhone and iPad accessories. This time, the company is pushing innovation with a sleek charging stand that can charge any lightning device you have for it: the HiRise Deluxe ($34.99). From charging your iPhone (in its case) to the new Apple Pencil, this may be Twelve South’s most useful accessory yet.

I'm always on the lookout for the best iPhone 6 battery cases and I've always been happy with Moshi phone cases in general, so I was happy to try the new Moshi iGlaze Ion Battery Case for iPhone 6 and 6s ($99.95). It's quick to charge up and quick to power up your phone. The outer charging case can be removed when you don't need it, leaving the slim and beautiful inner shell to protect your iPhone 6 or 6s. 

The biggest problem with the iPad is holding it. Depending on how and where you’re using it, you want different angles for your level of comfort and usability. The Tstand seeks to solve this issue. What began as a Kickstarter to raise ten thousand dollars, has skyrocketed beyond the 150,000 mark with three days to go. Optimized for screen viewing with healthy posture and optimal relaxation, it’s perfect for both the office and lounging at home.

While the Apple Watch naturally travels with you wherever you go, the cords and accessories for charging the Apple Watch do not. When you’re on the road, whether for business or pleasure, you want to keep everything close. This Leather Watch Case ($79.95) by Sena does exactly that. Wrapped in European leather, this watch case conveniently stores your Apple Watch cord and doubles as a display for bedside Apple Watch usage.

I'm happy with my iPhone, but sometimes it feels like Android owners get all the fun. Specifically when it comes to wireless charging. There are several Android phones that support the Qi wireless charging standard. It's the height of convenience to just set your phone down and know that it will charge. Maybe Apple will add such a feature to the iPhone 7, but until then, it was nice to learn about the Tango Wireless Charging Pad and iPhone Sleeve ($99.99). PowerSquare loaned me the combination charging pad and iPhone sleeve/case to try. 

I've reviewed the previous generation of the TravelCard Charger ($34) and I'm happy to report that, as good as it was, it's now even better. As the name implies, it's a compact charger in the shape and size of a credit card. What sets the TravelCard apart is that it's so small, yet still has a Lightning cable built-in (or there's a microUSB version for Android users.) The new version has a USB cable included so the TravelCard can be charged easily from any USB port.

I had the best Halloween ever, and I didn't even leave the house. Instead, I used the holiday as the perfect opportunity to try the Ring Video Doorbell ($199). Not only did I have a great time with it, the visitors were very intrigued by the bright blue ring around the doorbell and they loved hearing the musical chime when they pressed it. The Ring Video Doorbell lists for $199, but is available at retailers like Brookstone, who frequently offer discounts of 20 to 25 percent. For $150, the Ring Video Doorbell is a steal, and could help prevent folks from stealing your packages, thanks to the motion sensor alerts and recording.

I don't often recommend Kickstarter projects, because some manufacturers underestimate the complexity in getting a technical product to market, but I can recommend the Loopy Case ($29) because Loopy is already making them. In fact, the company gave me the case to try. Despite the name, it's quite clever. The most important thing a case can do is protect your iPhone, and the Loopy case is well built and protects all edges of the iPhone. But it goes further by preventing drops in the first place.

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