The Zizzle iZ is a portable speaker, a self-contained DJ, and a sampling master--are you intrigued yet?
As a toy, the Zizzle iZ is engaging, though he can become annoying after a while; several CNET workers offered to throw him down the cement stairwell the first day we played with him. When you're the one using him, though, and once you've figured out how the samplerlike device works, it's a bit more entertaining. Turn on the Iz by pressing the large button on his belly. Depending on where you push, this button controls the volume and the tempo, cycles through the Iz's modes, or changes the beat tracks. The last is applicable when Iz is in Play mode; you can press the center of the belly button to volley through the seven beat tracks. There are also seven lead tracks and seven rhythm tracks that will match up with the beat; you twist the ears to control these. The flicker on Iz's head lets you add in random "scratch" sounds, which vary depending on the beat you're using. In DJ mode, Iz plays his own mixes, while WZIZ FM mode makes Iz think he's a radio. You can tune the "stations" by twisting an ear. Currently, Iz is available decked out in red, green, or blue.