Briefly: Apple TV upgrades; WO at WWDC
updated 06:00 pm EDT, Fri March 30, 2007
Custom Apple TV upgrades
In brief: One company is offering custom Apple TV upgrades, organizers are planning pre-WWDC WebObjects sessions, and DJ mixers are receiving certification for Traktor Scratch. With some considering the 40GB in the stock Apple TV inadequate, the Santa Clara-based MacService is offering a custom upgrade program. By paying an extra service fee, clients can have the company replace their old hard drives with a new one, with sizes ranging from 60GB to 160GB -- the latter of which should be able to hold as much as 200 hours of standard-definition video. MacService pays to have a ground courier take the Apple TV in both directions, with a 24-hour turnaround after the device arrives at its office. A 60GB drive costs $200, while the 160GB drive is $300.
WebObjects conference gathers before WWDC
Pascal Robert sends word that the WebObjects Community is attempting to create a conference before Apple's WWDC event on June 11th. Nicknamed the WOWODC, the meeting is a response to a perceived lack of WebObjects content during normal WWDC sessions. A small group of presenters and attendees has already expressed interest; the Community is, however, searching for more people, and would like to know how many days and at what cost the WOWODC could be held. Those who would like to participate can sign up here.
DJ mixers certified for Traktor Scratch
Native Instruments has begun a certification program for mixing boards, ensuring compatibility with its Traktor Scratch music system. Scratch allows DJs to mix digital audio files using CD and vinyl turntables; certified mixers have MIDI-enabled controls, as well as Scratch-specific controller assignments which reduce the need for configuration. The beginning mixers in the program include the Zero4 and Zero8 boards by Korg, and the d.2Pro and d.4Pro boards by Mackie.



Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Mar 2006
Wha?
160GB for $300? Wow, that's actually worse than M$ charging $180 for a 120GB for the 360 l33t. Heck, I spent $600 and built a 1.2TB RAID 0/FW800 box. Granted, my setup is PATA 133 and is anything but slim/compact/s***/etc. ... oh well.