Shift Your Way Through FM Radio

Here's a 4-speed number that navigates the radio waves

For sale online: an FM radio shaped like a gear stick-shift. The Gear Shift FM Radio however doesn't control vehicle transmission. The stick lets users control the volume and scan for the next FM radio station.

Powered by two AAA batteries, or a 3V DC power adapter, the radio looks pretty easy to use once you get the hang of it. Push forward to increase the volume, pull back to lower it. Shift the stick to the right, and the radio automatically scans for the next available frequency (within the 88 to 108 MHz range). Move the stick to the opposite side to reset the radio.

The process of turning off the radio may please those who've driven old cars. It's a simple matter of pushing down on the stick, moving it to the left, and pulling it downwards. Shifting back to the center turns the radio on again.

Yes, pushing buttons and turning dials provides more responsive control over your FM radio experience. But how many radios are actually interesting conversation pieces themselves, or at least provide fun for pretend drivers? The $46 list price (sans shipping) for such a one-dimensional gadget may turn off buyers though.

Gear Shift FM Radio - $46 (Brando)