Traveling with a laptop can be frustrating once you get to the airport security line. That makes OGIO’s Axle Pack a good choice when you have to catch a flight but still want a comfortable pack to hold your electronics. Designed to accommodate most 17” laptops, the Axle Pack also has a dedicated tablet pocket that can hold an iPad or similar e-reader. It’s considered airport checkpoint friendly, as it can unfold and flatten to expose a computer without needing to remove it from the bag.
The shoulder straps are comfy for long distances and are made from a breathable, non-irritating material with plenty of padding. Unlike similar packs that have flimsy handles, the Axle Pack includes a built-in extruded aluminum top handle for durability.
There are plenty of various pockets and attachments to fit most applications, from pockets for water bottles to several zippered openings for security.
Despite all of these features, the pack is fairly light weight at 2.8 pounds — which allows you to carry electronic items with relative ease wherever you have to go.
Price is $99.99. To purchase or find a list of retailers, visit ogio.com.
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Wireless speaker provides quality sound for hours of listening
Perfect for a backyard get-together or an upscale camping retreat, Acoustic Research’s Santa Clara Wireless Speaker definitely inspires spring fever. It uses Bluetooth technology to stream music from any compatible device (smartphone or tablet), while also offering multiple LED lighting modes that can illuminate an area or enhance the party atmosphere with color-changing lights that can pulse to the beat of the music. It can be connected to another Santa Clara speaker for stereo sound.
Like other Acoustic Research products, the Santa Clara provides stellar sound. The system is 10 watts, with a mid-range driver, tweeter and bass resonator, and it has 3.5mm aux-in functionality to connect directly to a sound system. It has a built-in rechargeable battery that can play up to 12 hours.
The speaker is designed for indoor and outdoor use, and has an IPX casing for weather resistance.
The Santa Clara Wireless Speaker will be available in spring 2016. To purchase or find a list of retailers, visit acoustic-research.com. Price is $149.99.
