Something on the Side: Crisp sound from a beautiful docking station

In this week’s edition of Something on the Side, SEAN BACHER introduces the Marantz Consolette Premium Speaker Dock, a clock that is actually a safe, the Limited Edition Nike+ SportWatch GPS, the Gammatek BoostCase Hybrid and the FLD, a tablet carry bag that really does protect your tablet.

Marantz Consolette Premium Speaker Dock

The Marantz Consolette Premium Speaker Dock offers various networking options that allow for wireless streaming from just about any tablet, smartphone or computer. It also has a built-in iPod dock and USB and auxiliary line-in. The speaker offers 150 watts of sound, which is delivered through individual woofers, tweeters and mid-tone speakers. Six Internet radio presets allow you to listen to music even when you don’t have a music device present.

Expect to pay: R16 000 Stockists: Contact HFX Systems on 011 907 9092, who will put you in contact with your nearest dealer.

Clock Safe

Got something to hide? Consider this nifty location for your secret stash. The normal working clock face of this inconspicuous hideout conceals a generous hollow space in which to keep private or valuable belongings. Powered by 1 AA battery, the lightweight unit features 3 compartments in the camouflaged chamber and 3 peg holes at the rear for secure wall hanging.

Expect to pay: R360

Stockists: Order online from www.mantality.co.za

Limited Edition Nike+ SportWatch GPS

The Limited Edition Nike+ SportsWatch GPS uses a standard LCD display and TomTom GPS functionality to monitor your pace, time and location. It also tracks and records your heart rate and calories burned. These details can then be synchronised with an iPhone or iPad, where a detailed history is given and daily goals can be set. Logging onto the Nike+ website allows you to compare your statistics with friends and, if you really have to (but then you¡¯re a social spammer), you can post your daily data to Twitter or Facebook.

Expect to pay: R1 899, but can be bought with eBucks.

Stockists: Visit www.ebucks.co.za to place your order.

FLD 10¡± tablet carry bag

Using a sleeve for your tablet offers some protection against scratches and minor bumps. But what happens when the bundle slips out of your hand and crashes onto concrete? Chances are you will end up with a cracked screen. Bring on the FLD 10¡± tablet carry bag. The bag is made from water-resistant nylon, which is reinforced with a PVC backing, making it durable and able to protect your tablet when it hits the ground. The bag is also easy to carry as it has a handle and a detachable shoulder strap. Cables and chargers can also be stowed in the two separate compartments.

Expect to pay: R499 for the 10¡± tablet bag. Larger sizes are available for Ultrabooks and very small notebooks.

Stockists: Visit www.fldproducts.co.za to find a retailer closest to you.

Gammatek BoostCase Hybrid

Although the iPhone 4 is easy to use and looks great, it does have a flaw ¨C its battery life. Or should we say, lack thereof. Numerous third-party accessories are available to extend the iPhone¡¯s battery and, although they do a good job, they ruin the sexy iPhone looks. The BoostCase Hybrid from Gammatek increases battery life, protects the phone from everyday bumps and scratches, all the while still keeping the iPhone looking like an iPhone.

It is available in a range of colours and includes an extended 1 900mAh battery that charges the iPhone¡¯s battery when it starts running low. Admittedly, the iPhone will be slightly bulkier ¨C but it is a small price to pay for an iPhone with a battery that will last twice as long.

Expect to pay: R799. Different coloured cases retail for R149.

Availability: Visit www.gammatek.co.za for a stockist in your area