Simplify GR Updated to 1.1
Today I have released version 1.1 of my Safari extension, Simplify GR.
This new version enables the much-requested support for Google Reader over an SSL (https) connection. If you are using Google Reader over an SSL connection, the extension will also use an SSL connection when loading articles in Instapaper’s text-view.
The bundled versions of FancyBox and JQuery were also updated in this release.
Hit the update in Safari or download the latest version directly and try it out. (As usual, please post bug reports and feature requests on the actual Simplify GR page. Thanks!)
AmpliTube iRig for iOS Review
A few months ago I came across IK Multimedia’s iRig. A small device that utilizes the three-channel headphone connection in Apple’s iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad to connect a guitar or bass. Being a guitar player and a fan of Apple’s iOS devices, I was instantly intrigued.
At the time the only place I could find to purchase the $39.99 USD device from was IK Multimedia’s web site. The idea of paying a foreign currency, plus the cost of shipping, plus the cost of the iOS app(s) did not seem immediately appealing. I put the prospect of owning one on hold. That is, of course, until I happened to be at a local Apple store and the package caught my eye (and for only $39.95 CAD).
The iRig setup consists of two components. First there’s the hardware. A small device that provides a 1/4″ connection for your guitar or bass, and two 1/8″ connections—one female for a set of stereo headphones, the other male to connect to the iOS device itself. The second part is the iOS software, AmpliTube [iTunes link].
While the hardware supplies the means for connecting your instrument, the software provides the amp simulation and effects. The entire package provides an incredibly portable guitar rig for light jamming and learning new music (more on that later).