Following my last post on the DIY steadycam, I decided to improve upon the second downside of shooting video with the 5D—its audio input. The built-in microphone is completely unusable, adding a grinding noise to every video. I tried using an external mic with the 5D’s input port, but the audio was just as bad because the 5D still controls the levels.

My brother, Ben, is pretty big into audio. He has the Zoom H4, a portable recorder that provides true x/y stereo recording. I looked into it and found that Zoom upgraded it with the H4n. I took the plunge, but also purchased a hot shoe adapter with 3/8″ male thread so it could sit atop the 5D.

When picking up a quick release for the steadycam, I also got one for the recorder. Now, everything is set. Video is captured with the 5D, audio recorded with the H4n, and I have a big smile on my face.

Technology continues to amaze me. Can you remember a time before cell phones, when you had ALL of your friends’ phone numbers memorized. Back then, it was a bit easier without area codes. Now, I can video chat with Jen from an airplane. Here’s to the future.

This certainly isn’t new, considering it’s been hiding in my queue for a number of months, but it’s worth mentioning regardless. The Socket-Deer, by Nendo, is an alternative socket plate, equipped with antlers that cradle your cell phone while charging. It’s a simply brilliant idea, but I can’t find a store that sells it. It might just be one of those great-concept-never-produced sort of products. If anyone comes across one in the wild, be sure to let me know.

via Inspire me, now! »

I realize that there’s no shortage of creative USB key drives out there, but I really wish I could own this USB pipe. Unfortunately, it’s an editorial photograph by Kevin Van Aelst for The New York Times and not a gadget from Gizmodo. I’m sure there’s an obscure eBay tech store selling it for $1.99.

via Szymon Błaszczyk »

I definitely don’t need another clock, nor do I need anything, besides my thermostat, telling me what the temperature in my apartment is … but WoodStation makes me rethink those claims. This beauty is a clock, an indoor weather station, and a block of wood. It even has an unnecessary proximity sensor that turns off the LED lights when too close. And at $99, it’s a bit of a stretch, but it will certainly add some variety to your aluminum-filled room.

via Uncrate »

I need this. I need this. I need this. This is The Paperclip Lamp by Teague. It’s simply beautiful—the only downside being I’d feel wrong putting anything on my desk with it.

via Design Milk »

According to Multichannel News, Netflix’s “Watch Instantly” might make its way to the iPhone. Though this section of their website can easily be compared to the VHS aisle at your local video store, it does have a few goodies, mainly TV series. I recently subscribed to the RSS feed that shows the latest movies and shows added to “Watch Instantly.” It does seem like they’re picking up the pace with better additions, recently tossing in every season of LOST, but at the same time including 400 Years of the Telescope—the latest summer blockbuster, I’m sure. Regardless, I welcome Netflix with open arms.

via MacRumors