Radio

So far, there have been so many apps released for the iPhone and iPod 2.0 update that I haven't had to wait for any apps yet (though I have questioned the usefulness of many). That is, except for a radio app. The absence of a radio option has frustrated some iPod users, as shown in this week's iPod vs. Zune post. That changes now — if you have an iPod Touch or iPhone.

AOL Radio is a new app for those who have upgraded to the 2.0 firmware update, and it provides over 200 radio stations, including your local radio stations (when you're in the area, and when you're not), as well as Internet radio stations. One drawback for first gen iPhone users is that there are not as many stations as there are for 3G, but radio on your little device is certainly still an auspicious start!

Cute, and eco, too. The Areaware Magno Wooden Radio ($330), designed by Singgih Kartono, is made from sustainably harvested woods, and combines the techiness of an mp3 player with the ageless quality and appeal of wood. If this had an alarm, I'd be all about it. What about you? Do you like the look of this cute little radio, or is it too simplistic for your tastes?

I am not only in love with all things geeky, but all things related to music as well. Thankfully we live in a time where we have access to more cool music, more often with sites like Pandora and Mercora making it super easy to get new music into those earbuds. If you have access to the internet (duh) and either Windows Media, Real Player, or iTunes then you're all set to feast your ears on the musical stylings of kexp.org.

Why else do I love it? Just read more

I'll be completely honest. The only time I ever listen to the radio is when I'm in a car. Other than that, I heavily rely on my iPod and iPod dock for rocking out to all my favorite tunes. Although sometimes, there is a time and a place for not only a radio, but especially a radio that looks like it's stuck in the sixties. I instantly liked these sixties style AM/FM radios that I spotted on Unplggd. With a power LED indicator and an adaptor jack, it's not 100 percent retro and still provides the additional bonus of being geek-chic. Get your very own in yellow, pink or green from the London at the Victoria and Albert Museum for $60.

I stumbled across the Almost Vintage Miniature Radio series after about a week of obsessing over cool old school radios. At $25 they're a total steal and an unexpected throwback gift that will likely be a hit with gramps, pops or even your kid sister. The three devices below were modeled on tabletop Bakelite originals from the 40s and 50s, and has all the usual AM/FM radio features. I've since seen similar models at department and electronics stores if you're in search of a retro last minute gift!

For a Sunday dose of vintage geek, I thought I'd share these pastel vintage-chic radios which I spotted on GeekAlerts. Unlike other radios which appear retro on the outside but are mp3 players on the inside, this radio is totally old school. With an AM/FM radio, top handle, a telescopic antenna and knobs for adjusting the volume and frequency, it doesn't get any more vintage geek-chic than this. The pink is currently sold out so you'll have to settle for sky blue. Priced at $15 each.

I love internet radio and music sharing websites but only use either when I'm sitting at my computer. I also happen to love listening to music and talk shows from around the world, but haven't been able to commit to the monthly satellite radio fees. Enter the Tangent Quattro WiFi Alarm Radio, which links to any wireless network and gives you access to more than 6,000 radio stations from around the world. I love it because it's small and portable and you don't have to turn on your computer or pay any subscription fees. I got to check out the device when the Firebox people came to San Francisco a few weeks ago and loved the fact that it also features an alarm clock, can stream music from your pc and can connect to your mp3 player.

The radio comes in black and walnut and costs $299.95. It requires broadband internet connection and wireless router, as it acquires internet radio from the router.