CELEBRATE PANTONE’S 2013 “COLOR OF THE YEAR” WITH EXCLUSIVE EMERALD JEWELRY FROM STAUER

EMERALD, a lively, radiant, lush green, has been announced as the PANTONE COLOR OF THE YEAR FOR 2013. And while the verdant hue will be showcased everywhere from custom interiors to haute couture, emerald will shine most spectacularly in brilliant jewelry from Stauer (www.stauer.com).

Stauer's Cayman Emerald Necklace, $79 available at www.stauer.com.  (PRNewsFoto/Stauer Jewelry)

Stauer’s Cayman Emerald Necklace, $79 available at http://www.stauer.com. (PRNewsFoto/Stauer Jewelry)

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TECH REPORT: RODE MICROPHONES ANNOUNCES IXY™, THE WORLD’S HIGHEST QUALITY MICROPHONE FOR IPHONE® AND IPAD®

Australian-based audio company RODE MICROPHONES has announced the iXY, a stereo microphone for iPhone and iPad and iPod touch with 30-pin connector that allows high quality recording at sampling rates up to 24-bit/96kHz, the only microphone on the market to do so. Appearing at the INTERNATIONAL CES (CONSUMER ELECTRONICS SHOW) in Las Vegas for the first time, the company unveiled the innovative device to an expected audience of over 150,000 visitors.

The RØDE iXY and RØDE Rec app for Apple iPhone

The RØDE iXY and RØDE Rec app for Apple iPhone

At the heart of the iXY is a matched pair of 1/2″ cardioid condenser capsules, fixed in a perfect 90 degree ‘near-coincident’ alignment resulting in immersive and true-to-life stereo recordings, captured in incredibly high detail. The iXY uses its own high-fidelity analog to digital conversion ensuring all recordings are rich, smooth and accurate.

Its small form factor and incredibly detailed performance makes it the perfect microphone for recording live music, meetings, lectures, reporting, dictation, sound design, and also is ideal for use on-camera as a dual-system recorder for DSLR. A foam windshield is provided for outdoor recordings, as well as a rugged zip pocket to ensure the mic is always around when you need it.

The RØDE iXY stereo microphone for Apple iPhone and iPad

The RØDE iXY stereo microphone for Apple iPhone and iPad

I’m more excited about iXY than any other product in RODE’s twenty year history.” commented PETER FREEDMAN, RODE’S FOUNDER AND PRESIDENT. “The audio quality of the iXY is breathtaking and really affirms RODE’s commitment to providing the very best audio products available at a price that’s accessible to the general public.”

Released in conjunction with the iXY is RODE Rec, an app for iPhone, iPad and iPod touch designed to be the ultimate companion to RODE’s new microphone. When used together, the iXY and RODE Rec transform an iOS device into a fully-featured field recorder.

RODE Rec allows for complete control of the iXY’s continuously adjustable input levels for recording in loud and quiet environments, as well as the high pass filter to cut out low frequency rumbling such as air conditioning or outdoor traffic noises.

The RØDE iXY with included wind shield and carry pocket

The RØDE iXY with included wind shield and carry pocket

The RODE Rec App is available from the App store on iPhone, iPad and iPod touch or at www.itunes.com/appstore and provides a full suite of features including multiple sampling rates up to 96kHz, equalization effects (compressor/expander, high-pass filter, low pass filter, parametric EQ), non-linear editing, geo and photo tagging, and one touch publishing to SoundCloud, Dropbox, email, FTP and iTunes. RODE has also announced a feature-limited free version of the app, simply titled RØDE Rec LE.

The RODE iXY is shipping this month. Visit www.ixymic.com for more information.

NEW YEAR, NEW VISION: WALMART AND SAM’S CLUB INTRODUCE NEW CONTACT LENS PROGRAM FOR 2013

COMPREHENSIVE VISION OFFERING INCLUDES REDUCED PRICES ON CONTACTS AND TOP EYE GLASS OFFERINGS

WALMART and SAM’S CLUB has announced that the two companies are launching an all-new online and phone contact lens program as well as reduced prices on many top contact lenses. The new contact lens program builds on the retailers’ long-standing comprehensive vision offerings.

Walmart logo. (PRNewsFoto/WALMART CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS)

Walmart logo. (PRNewsFoto/WALMART CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS)

Independent optometrists operate private offices next to more than 3,000 Walmart Vision Centers and Sam’s Club Optical Centers to provide comprehensive eye exams, lens fitting and prescriptions by appointment and on a walk-in basis. In addition, Walmart and Sam’s Club have on-site opticians in the Vision Centers and Optical Centers to assist with fitting glasses in store or in club.**

At Walmart and Sam’s Club, we are always looking for ways to make it easier and more affordable for our customers to live healthier lives,” said JOHN AGWUNOBI, M.D., president of WALMART’S HEALTH AND WELLNESS DIVISION. “This new SAM'S CLUBcontact lens program, coupled with our in-store Vision Centers and in-club Optical Centers, provides our customers with a true one stop vision solution.”

They are bringing an unmatched optical service to customers and members, with comprehensive offerings that includes:

NEW ONLINE AND PHONE CONTACT LENS PROGRAMWalmart customers can now visit WalmartContacts.com or call 1-800-741-LENS (5367) and Sam’s Club members can now visit SamsClub.com/contacts or call 1-800-749-LENS (5367) to place contact lens orders and have them delivered directly to their home. Free shipping is available on orders over $50 for Walmart Contacts and $45 for Sam’s Club Contacts.

LOW PRICES ON TOP CONTACT LENSES – Walmart and Sam’s Club have reduced prices on many top contact lenses, such as:

  • Acuvue Oasys (2 week)
  • Air Optix Aqua (monthly)
  • Acuvue Moist (daily / 90 pack)
  • Acuvue 2 (2 weeks)
  • Biofinity (monthly)

This February, WALMART will also launch its own private EQUATE brand of contact lenses to give customers even more contact lens options at low prices.* Continue reading