(April 5, 2006) — In terms of video game handheld devices, Nintendo has ruled the niche for over a decade, using its immensely powerful Gameboy line of products. Over a year ago, Nintendo released a portable that shed the Gameboy name: The Nintendo DS. The product had two screens: a touch screen that called for innovation from game developers around the world and a second screen capable of displaying quality graphics for a portable. In terms of video game handheld devices, Nintendo has ruled the niche for over a decade, using its immensely powerful Gameboy line of products. Over a year ago, Nintendo released a portable that shed the Gameboy name: The Nintendo DS. The product had two screens: a touch screen that called for innovation from game developers around the world and a second screen capable of displaying quality graphics for a portable. The system has everything the Nintendo DS has and changes the design and also the screen. The system also calls for better, more responsive buttons. What does all that mean? When comparing the decibels of volume that the iPod can maximize, the closest non-MP3 object that reaches similar decibel levels is a jet plane taking off, a live music concert and band practice. A decibel level of 140 is a firearm or jet engine, and only by 20 decibels is there a difference. Overall, however, experts of ASHA note that anything above 85 is unsafe for the ears. But length of exposure matters as well. The Occupational and Safety Administration (OSHA) states that 15 minutes at 115 decibels is dangerous and anything near 120-130 for two minutes may be hazardous. The DS Lite cuts down on mass by pushing the screen and buttons together and streamlining the design by flattening the contours of the system. They also slimmed the system down by half an inch, allowing the once massive system to be easily pocketable. The system also bears a glossy style paint-job and a new logo placed upon the top of the clamshell design. The DS Lite also draws in with its brand new screens that are ultra-bright compared to the old Nintendo DS. They also allow for more vivid and bright colors and contrast. The system was released in Japan March 2, but the demand for the system was very high as Nintendo was unable to satisfy product-hungry consumers. The device is completely sold out in Japan and importing is a near-impossible task for those willing to pay the retail price of $160. Importers are meeting prices as high as $300! Prices will drop in the coming months as demand lowers over time. The system has not been announced for release in any region besides Japan. However, with the number of great Nintendo DS games being released and the high demand for the system, there is no doubt that it will be released stateside in the very near future.