The sweet spot for home turntable enthusiasts on a budget seems to be the $200 mark. This might be the best of the bunch.
One can only imagine the sake-fueled club hopping that led to the development of the Seiko Frequency drum machine watch.
AirScooter II Ultralight Helicopter
By James Grahame
The AirScooter II recreational helicopter meets US ultralight requirements, so it doesn't require registration and can be flown without a pilot's license. AirScooter Corporation plans to make this unique little vehicle available later in 2006 at a price of around $50,000.
The AirScooter uses a dual coaxial rotor system that eliminates the need for complicated swash plates and greatly simplifies the aircraft's controls (unlike a traditional helicopter, the AirScooter II uses motorcycle-style handlebars). The design also eliminates foot controls and the tail rotor. The company reports a maximum speed of 55 knots (approximately 60 mph, in keeping with ultralight regulations) and a 2-hour range from the 5 gallon tank. Power is provided by a 65 HP AeroTwin 4-stroke engine.
For those who like the concept of a coaxial rotorcraft but don't have $50G to burn, the company also makes the AirScoot R/C coaxial rotor hobby model. The complete radio controlled package with 10 cell battery pack sells for $695.
