Wednesday Webcast Review: MassMUG

We at Bostonist like our Apple computers. Ok, it does distress us a little to hear that our shiny iPod might have been produced in a sweatshop. But, if we turn the volume up really loud, we forget all about it. If you want to hear the latest Apple talk from four local enthusiasts, then MassMUG is the podcast for you.

We are always looking on the intarweb for Apple news and rumors. What will the next iPod be like? Will Apple release a handheld computer? How about that rumored iPhone? The fellas at MassMUG take the latest Apple news from all over and bring it to you in a nicely packaged podcast. Sometimes we don't have the time to troll the internets for news about our favorite Cupertino-based company, and for this we like MassMUG.

In addition to news and rumors, the hosts bring tips on using your stylish Apple computer or Mac software. Occasionally, they stray from Apple fandom to bring us news from elsewhere in the tech news stratosphere. But, it always comes back to Apple and it's always informative, thoughtfully delivered, and even at times entertaining.

Let's get the specifics out of the way. Is the production quality good? Surprisingly, yes. We say surprisingly, as it seems with many podcasts, once you go beyond one or two hosts, the quality gets exponentially worse. The sound on this show is pretty darn good, despite having four hosts wired up. Is it entertaining and of good quality? Sure. Well, let us qualify. If you are a bit geeky, like hearing about geeky stuff, and are an Apple fanatic, it will be immensely entertaining and you will find the show highly informative. Otherwise, you might not dig it. And lastly, does it dish out local flavor? Unfortunately, despite this being a (sort of) locally produced show, there is next to no talk of the greater Boston area.

Some might accuse us who own Apple computers as being latte-drinking hipsters. Hey, there's nothing wrong with enjoying a nice latte every now and again, is there? Or listening to some indie-rock music while shopping at a vintage clothing store on Newbury Street. Or, even subscribing to a podcast made for Apple fanatics, by Apple fanatics. We say order up that non-fat, grande, half-caff latte, just don't spill any on your brand new (old) cords.