Mobile Technology

Nonlinear Studio's clip-on Amplifiear gives iPad audio a needed boost

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The clip-on Amplifiear boosts iPad audio and sound quality
The Amplifiear easily clips on to the iPad 2 and third-generation iPad
The Amplifiear easily clips on to the iPad 2 and third-generation iPad
The clip-on Amplifiear makes iPad audio easier to hear in noisy environments
The Amplifiear easily clips on to the iPad 2 and third-generation iPad
The Amplifiear will come in several colors
The clip-on Amplifiear boosts iPad audio and sound quality
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While most folks find the speakers on their iPads adequate, they can be difficult to hear clearly in noisy environments or when they're several feet away. Recently, we covered an accessory that amplifies the iPhone4 by about 13 decibels. Now, to help the third-generation iPad (and the earlier iPad2) be all that it can be, Evan Clabots and his team at Brooklyn's Nonlinear Studio have come up with a similar clip-on solution that simply and effectively boosts output - the Amplifiear.

"The problem with the speaker in the iPad is that it's projecting backwards," Clabots explains. "You lose a lot of the definition as the sound goes back, especially losing a lot of the higher frequencies."

Nonlinear is using Kickstarter to bring the Amplifiear to market and from the looks of it, they'll meet the necessary pledges to actually begin manufacturing. If all goes well, the durable ABS plastic accessories should begin shipping this summer for about US$15.

"It's such a simple geometry, taken from an old gramophone," Clabots said. "It just clips on, and it just works."

Source: Nonlinear Studio

Check out Nonlinear's Kickstarter video below to learn a bit more about the Amplifiear.

View gallery - 6 images
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3 comments
Fahrenheit 451
I simply use my cupped hand to redirect the iPad's sound. I like this concept, but I do not like its execution. Why? As I have found with any obstruction (and I use OtterBox covers on our iPads) that is edge-bound or higher-than-screen level, they impede the touch-flow of how you use any tablet.
Matt Rings
Technically, not an amplifier, per se, but a directional perceived volume booster. Amplification on applies to the electrical signal or total power output.
Cheap and easy, though. Does it come in "classy black"?, or all goofy neon primary colors?
Barry Kaye
I see this product, simple, seems to work- and immediate think. Occam's Razor