BUZ MULTIMEDIA PRODUCER Hipness: This external widget lets would-be directors plug their camcorders straight into their PCs and--with its included software--makes editing video, audio, and digital photos a snap. Lameness: Not quite professional offline editing may result in an occasional dropped picture frame. (Iomega, $199, 800-MY-STUFF, www.iomega.com) [Lust Scale] 3 [Must Scale] 7
SONY DVP-S3000 CD/DVD PLAYER Hipness: Top-notch integration of digital picture quality and Dolby surround sound makes Sony's home-theater DVD player a winner. You can play your audio CDs on it, too. Lameness: If the DVD doesn't go the way of the Betamax, you'll have to replace your entire VHS collection of the Jim Carrey oeuvre. (Sony, $599, 800-222-SONY, www.sony.com) [Lust Scale] 6 [Must Scale] 7
INTERACTIVE BARNEY Hipness: The dorky purple dino's interactive alter ego works as an animatronic plush toy (think hardwired Tickle Me Elmo), or--with its radio transmitter--interacts with its namesake TV show. Lameness: Duh--it's Barney. ActiMates/Microsoft, $109.95, 800-426-9400, www.microsoft.com/actimates/) [Lust Scale] 2 [Must Scale] 7
3COM PALMPILOT PROFESSIONAL Hipness: A digital assistant for the hipster set; includes uncanny handwriting recognition, date book and address apps, optional E-mail (with add-on modem), and HotSync (for down- and uploading info to and from your PC). Lameness: None we can think of. (3Com, $399, 800-881-7256, www.palmpilot.com) [Lust Scale] 8 [Must Scale] 7
SIDEWINDER FORCE FEEDBACK PRO Hipness: This joystick adds real-time reaction to flight sims and shoot-'em- ups by replicating movement from the vibrating base unit up to your hands. Lameness: Two words--carpal tunnel. (Microsoft, $149.95, available at computer retailers, www.microsoft.com/sidewinder) [Lust Scale] 7 [Must Scale] 7
