What Will They Think of Next?: Make "Beats" On-The-Go

There are plenty of things that you want to be able to do on-the-go. Chat with friends. Listen to tunes. Surf the Web. But what about making "beats"? A new device from Akai Professional contains more than 700 sounds, from drums to effects and instrument samples, so that you can create a "beat" whenever inspiration strikes.

OK, in all fairness, the device really is meant for music producers (or wannabe producers). As any creative type knows, inspiration often strikes in the oddest places. That's why writers (and musicians) might keep a pad of paper and pen on the bedside table; or a fashion designer might keep a notebook in his car. So why not bring along a device that can let you musically play out a tune that might be running over and over in your head?

The device, called the XR20 Beat Production Station, has an integrated effects engine that includes reverb, EQ, and compression, along with a mic input should you wish to mix in some hot lyrics. If you want to create your masterpiece in peace, though, think again: bright backlit pads offer visual cues that'll get the attention of passers-by.

At $500, the unit really is tailored to the professional crowd, or those hoping to make their way into the hip hop/R&B industry, or whatever other type of music utilizes funky "beats".