High roller? Consider these pricey gadget gifts
— -- Does someone on your Christmas list deserve an extra special gift this year? If you have the cash to spend, here are some great ideas for tech gifts. These gadgets may be expensive, but they're sure to bring years of enjoyment.
Gibson Robot Guitar
Gibson has released a limited-edition first run of its Robot Guitar (www.gibson.com/robotguitar, $2,499). Gibson claims it is the first guitar to use robotic technology.
At first glance, it looks like any Les Paul guitar. But the Robot Guitar is self-tuning. Pull a button on the guitar's body to put it in tuning mode. A chip in the headstock tunes the guitar in seconds.
There are six factory presets, each of which is customizable. Lights alert you when the guitar is out of tune. They also show you if the guitar is tuned or in the process of tuning.
Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin iPod speaker
We've seen plenty of iPod speakers. Some iPod speakers and docks are gimmicky. But don't dismiss the Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin (www.bowers-wilkins.com, $600) based on its looks.
As you can guess, the Zeppelin is shaped like the airship from which it gets its name. The shape disperses sound waves optimally.
The design is simple and elegant, with a floating docking port. It works with Apple's newer iPod models. Ports on the back connect other audio sources.
The Zeppelin connects to a television to play video and photos. The Zeppelin's egg-shaped remote controls the iPod.
Sony Reader
The Sony Reader Digital Book (www.sonystyle.com, $300) is ideal for frequent travelers. It is the same size as a slim trade paperback. Built-in memory holds about 160 books. It has expansion slots for Sony Memory Sticks and SD cards.
The gray-scale screen uses electronic ink technology. Since there's no back light, readers won't get eyestrain. And battery life is a respectable 15 to 20 hours.
The Reader handles PDF, Microsoft Word and MP3 files. Books can be downloaded from the Sony Connect eBooks store.
Amazon.com recently released the rival Kindle reader ($399). It connects to Amazon's online store via a free cellular connection. Demand has been high. Delivery is delayed until after Christmas.
