This little device is so cool, I wanted to let you know about it even though it is a little off topic for us. There are still a few NPR shows I like to catch, but never seem to tune in at the right time.

Enter the “Radio Your Way LX” from Pogo! Products. This is basically a Tivo-like audio device (without the name, video or Linux; Ok, it’s not really Tivo-like) that is almost exactly the same form factor as my full-size iPod. Dressed in white with an inner click-wheel, button and four outer buttons, it looks like a close relative to the iPod. The idea here is that there are some radio shows we want to catch, but are too busy or forget. The LX allows you to “time-shift” radio and archive/listen at your leasure.

The 128MB version I have allows easy memory upgrade via SD/MMC cards up to 1GB. The AM and FM tuners work well, but remember your headphone cable acts as the FM antenna, so it’s important to leave it plugged in. The LX will play MP3 and WMA files. MP3 encoding is clearly displayed on the 160×96 backlit LCD display that also reads ID3 tags. You can set 10 timer recording presets.

The LX can also act as a portable file storage device. Power is supplied by a re-chargable (via USB) Lithium-Polymer battery that states 15 hour battery life. You’ll get a full charge in about 4 hours. …I still haven’t run mine down yet

You can also record audio notes directly to the LX using its internal condenser mic or use the external mic/line-in. The LX does have a small internal speaker that can be used in a pinch. The loudness and quality just isn’t practical for this small of a port, so headphones are recommended not only for quality, but to act as an FM antenna.

For a street price of about $199, you get a lot of versatility from this little device. I used it several times to make voice memos on the fly, record and archive my favorite weekly radio show and just listen to radio now and then.

Your radio or voice recordings are easily transferred to a Mac or PC with the included USB cable. The LX also comes with stereo earbuds, an FM cable, a line-in/out cable and an AC adapter/charger.

The fit and finish are excellent. The menus are logical and the buttons spaced logically with a nice tactile “snap” to them. If you are a regular radio listener and find you often miss your favorite daily or weekly show, the LX is for you. The review unit came with 128MB internal memory. There is also a 512MB model that retails for $249 and also comes with an iPod-type dock.

Check this unit out at Pogo! Products along with their complete line of media devices.

Best,
MarkJensen & Laura

Filed under: Podcasting