From CES 2008

Designed by Ross Lovegrove, the $130,000 KEF MUON luxury speakers are a perfect example of audio innovation and a cutting-edge, ultra-modern design. These impressive loudspeakers, standing nearly 7 feet tall, are now up on display at CES 2008. The central aim of the MUON project was to create the ultimate in sound technology and design innovation. These ultra-exclusive speakers will be limited in production to just 100 pairs and will be sold in only 10 cities worldwide. The MUON loudspeaker is made from super-formed aluminum, which uses a similar molding process to vacuum forming. Malleable sheets of heated aluminum were used to achieve otherwise impossible shapes. The eventual form of the loudspeaker was the result of a careful convergence between Ross Lovegrove’s design aesthetics and the physics of sound. MUON’s four-way speaker system mounted into the front of the structure with its powerful bass drivers is one of the elements that make it so superior. The 6mm thick, heavily damped aluminum shell provides a totally rigid structure that minimizes any sound-distorting vibrations. KEF MUON is the best an audiophile can get.

A while ago I wrote about a Hip and Shoulder Holster that provided an alternative way to carry a small collection of gadgets and other accessories without your pockets bulging. Well it’s been brought to my attention that there’s an even better, if slightly less subtle solution called the Grabit Pack. It uses a belt like a fanny pack (and yes, I’m familiar with the other uses of the term ‘fanny’) but hangs down the side of your leg instead. And for added security and to prevent it from bouncing around, it actually attaches to your thigh with another smaller belt.

I’ll be quite honest that I would never use something like this for my day to day misadventures, but I can see many opportunities where it could be quite handy. Specifically when it comes to physical activities where a backpack would be too cumbersome, but there’s still the risk of things falling out of your pocket. And because of where the Grabit Pack sits, it doesn’t interfere with something like a tool belt if you’re a carpenter, and actually makes it easier to access its contents. In fact, dare I say it seems like the perfect accessory for wandering around the CES show floor keeping your phone, camera and other gadgets easily accessible.

The Grabit Pack is available directly from the company’s website for just $23. Unfortunately at the moment the right side version is sold out, which is actually good news for south paws.

[ Grabit Pack ]

I have yet to meet a person who wouldn’t trade an arm and a leg for that illusive perfect cup of espresso. Catering to coffee connoisseurs like you and me the specialist coffee machine vendors, Rancilio have developed the magnificent Classe 10 espresso machine. The unit aptly caters to the requirements of upscale outfits that desire to retain the traditional standards of coffee making but also want to incorporate modern technology in the same. Constructed entirely with aluminum, the innovative espresso machine features an expanded pre-infusion chamber proficient in extracting the finest brew which assures optimum taste and aroma. The components of the unit are fully accessible for technical inspection making the machine very easy to own and to maintain. Since the company’s Classe 8 costs over $9,500, we should expect the Classe 10 to cost something around that mark.