UCube

Rich stereo sound via USB-powered speakers with a desk-friendly footprint

Artfully designed with science in mind, these desktop UCube speakers deliver a powerful 170-degree field of sound in an an equally impressive 3.25-inch package. The surprisingly small speakers require only two cables and no external power supply, meaning less mess on your desk without sacrificing sound. Rather than being limited by standard USB port five-volt-max output, the UCube’s “smart” power supply stores energy during low …

Critter and Guitari Pocket Pianos

Go from stage to studio with a full spectrum of sound packed into a mini-synth

Critter and Guitari, the same experimental audiophiles that came up with a Kaleidescope-inspired music device, recently added a new creation to their line-up of avant-tools. Ultra-portable, simple and versatile, don’t let the clean lines of the Pocket Piano’s aluminum and hardwood case fool you. This petite battery-powered synth’s six modes achieve large sound that cranks up for live performances yet is customizable and nuanced enough …

W Austin

A hotel chain tailors their new spot to the world's "live music capital"

Even Austin’s airport food—local famed BBQ and Tex-Mex rather than soggy tuna sandwiches—touts the city’s pro-small business attitude. So when the chain known for hipping up the mid-range hotel experience came to town, they had to step up their game to make it in a place known as much for its nocturnal winged residents (there’s even a bat hotline) as for its indie music scene. …