ULTIMATE REMOTE

Nevo SL universal remote
£600 www.mynevo.com 01279 501 111

Just as we tamed our jumble of remote controls with a single universal remote, along came the digital entertainment revolution with computers, multi-room music systems and a host of new zappers for all of them. Nevo says it is coming to the rescue with a customisable, touchscreen universal remote that combines an infrared controller (for your older devices) with wi-fi support. There’s no need to enter the infrared codes for each device laboriously; instead it works with a computer to download them from an online library, and as the handset’s graphics are run by a cut-down version of Windows, you can redesign the touchscreen layout for each new device. An optional wireless bridge allows you to “talk” to gadgets in far-flung corners of your entertainment empire that would otherwise be out of reach. The price is steep, but it does include a personal visit from a Nevo installer to get you up and running.

PUFF AND PADDLE

Tributary Tomcat Tandem inflatable kayak
£399 www.johnsonoutdoors.co.uk 01493 745 192

Owning a kayak used to be a privilege of the 4x4 classes because it took a brute of a vehicle to carry the craft. No longer, thanks to a pair of inflatable boats from the American whitewater specialists AIRE. The two-man Tandem version weighs just 54lb and will pack to a size that fits in the boot of a car or the locker of a larger boat. After inflation – you’ll need your own foot pump – you’ve got a 13ft kayak complete with adjustable integral seats, and the option of adding gear and footbrace kits for rough conditions. The brave can risk it on the ocean, thanks to the double protection of a heavy-duty PVC outer shell over the inner air-retaining chamber, with an extra, third layer of abrasion-resistant material at the bow.

OUTOOR AUDIO

JBL Control NOW speakers
£179 per speaker www.jbl.com 01707 278 100

Don’t just open the kitchen doors and turn up the radio at your next barbecue; instead set up JBL’s Control NOW all-weather speakers and enjoy a top-quality soundtrack to the great outdoors. Choose from single-point or stereo sound and between one and four speakers, or slot four together in a doughnut shape for 360-degree broadcasting. The speakers’ build quality is excellent, though maybe not good enough to survive a British winter. However, thanks to their promise of minimal distortion, even at high volumes, and many mounting options, they should also make a decent indoor surround-sound system when it’s raining.

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