Shriram Adukoorie, co-founder of AskLaila, a company that provides local information services across India, has made use of every last byte of information to source the most eclectic gadgets for himself. Adukoorie thus has the latest gadgets, but also the costliest, since he buys them early in markets outside India.
Do you have a gadget that you use to de-stress?
I guess it would be my Sony PlayStation Portable. This is the only serious play toy I have. I carry it occasionally. There are times I’m really addicted and I want to work hard at breaking a few levels on some games. My favourite game is Need For Speed. The only problem is that I have to compete with my son to carry this gadget around.
What ultra-expensive gadget do you aspire to buy?
I wish to buy the new Canon 5D Digital SLR and a Canon 400 mm f/2.8 IS lens. Also on the list is a 50mm f/1.4 lens. I have been eyeing these for some time now, but I guess I will have to wait out the recession as they are very expensive.
Do you have any custom-fitted gadgets?
I went through some matching exercise when I bought an audiophile-quality music system. I bought a Musical Fidelity Integrated Amp and CD player and paired them with Dali’s IKON range of speakers.
What are your favourite functions in the gadgets you like?
I like the fact that I can play CDs and DVDs on my Sony Vaio without having to boot the system. On my point-and-shoot digital camera, Canon IXUS 850, I like the feature that helps me suppress all colours and pick only one colour to highlight in a picture that I click.
Have you ever bought a gadget that did not justify its price?
Most of my gadgets are bought well before they are officially launched in India and hence I end up paying a high price, both in terms of cash and being stuck with early versions of products. However, I am happy that this gives me an opportunity to enjoy my toys while others are still fantasising about them.
What’s your most stylish gadget?
I love my Musical Fidelity Integrated Amp and CD player. It is designed simply but weighs a tonne, giving a feeling of professional equipment when you look at it, unlike the modern 20-controls-and-buttons integrated AMPs with big PMPO stickers on them.
What gadget has it taken you a long time to master?
Well, there are a few that I haven’t mastered yet. Digital SLR cameras take a long time to figure out, and even then one continues to discover new tricks and tips every day.
