JimC's stats
- Review count115
- Helpfulness votes8,372
- First reviewOctober 30, 2016
- Last reviewApril 28, 2026
- Featured reviews0
- Average rating4.8
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- Answer count34
- Helpfulness votes324
- First answerDecember 4, 2016
- Last answerNovember 16, 2021
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- Best answers11
Charge your iPhone and Apple Watch together with ButterFly SE, the world~s smallest 2-in-1 USB-C Qi2 charger. Similar in size to an AirPods Pro Case, this ultracompact dual charger was designed with travel in mind. Unfold the colorful soft-touch pink, white or black outer shell to reveal a Qi2 charger for your iPhone and a magnetic fast charger for your Apple Watch. ButterFly SE also morphs into a display stand that supports StandBy mode on iPhone or Nightstand mode on Apple Watch.
Customer Rating
5
Ultra Compact Device to Charge Your iPhone & Watch
on October 21, 2024
Posted by: JimC
The Twelve South ButterFly SE 2-in-1 Qi2 Travel Charger is a very compact device which provides rapid charging power designed to complement the higher power needs of the iPhone, Apple Watch and iPods at a very economical price. It is ideal for travel.
Twelve South is a firm which specializes in accessories for Apple products. It was founded in 2009 and is based in South Carolina. It produces a broad line of consumer electronics products which have high quality and modest prices. Here is their mission statement: “Twelve South creates beautiful accessories that take your tech to the next level … our innovative products enhance, inspire & personalize the experience of using your favorite devices”
Here are the key features of this great combination charger:
• Twelve South ButterFly SE 2-in-1 Qi2 travel charger (Model: TS-2432)
• Suggested power supply: 20 watt power transformer with USB-C output port (not included)
• Input: 9 volt, 3 amp
• Wireless Qi2 Output: 5 watt maximum (watch), 15 watt maximum (phone)
• Compatible with all iPhones 8 – 16 Pro Max, all Apple Watch models and all Air Pods
• Wireless Qi2 charging output: 15 watt maximum
• Charging efficiency: >72% at 9 volts
• Cable: Heavy duty 60 inches USB-C to USB-C
• Dimensions (inches): 3.0 x 2.25 x 1 .0 tall (closed); 6.25 x 2.25 x 2.0 tall (open)
• Lightweight: 3.6 ounces (charger) + 1.8 ounces (cable)
• One year warranty on parts and labor
• Made in Viet Nam
• Suggested power supply: 20 watt power transformer with USB-C output port (not included)
• Input: 9 volt, 3 amp
• Wireless Qi2 Output: 5 watt maximum (watch), 15 watt maximum (phone)
• Compatible with all iPhones 8 – 16 Pro Max, all Apple Watch models and all Air Pods
• Wireless Qi2 charging output: 15 watt maximum
• Charging efficiency: >72% at 9 volts
• Cable: Heavy duty 60 inches USB-C to USB-C
• Dimensions (inches): 3.0 x 2.25 x 1 .0 tall (closed); 6.25 x 2.25 x 2.0 tall (open)
• Lightweight: 3.6 ounces (charger) + 1.8 ounces (cable)
• One year warranty on parts and labor
• Made in Viet Nam
The Butterfly charger is an attractive black color which is very elegant and professional. (It also comes in classic Apple Alpine white and pink (for the more fashion-forward.) Closed, it looks a bit like a yo-yo. Flip it open and you have two connected charging stations, one side for your iPhone or iPods and the other side for your Apple Watch. Both charging surfaces are magnetic which serves to secure your devices in place during charging. The watch side has a flip-up connector which allows you to use the watch in display mode. The magnetic surfaces also keep the Butterfly closed when you flip it shut for travel.
The supplied USB-C to USB-C cable has heavy duty fabric insulation with reinforced connectors at each end and is very generous in length at 60 inches. This makes locating the charging unit much more convenient when you are looking for a wall outlet on the road.
The real advantage of this Butterfly charger is that is much more compact than the typical all-in-one charging stands. You can place it on your night stand or desk and it will take up just 14 square inches (about one quarter of a sheet of printer paper.) And you can use it folded up if you just want to charge your watch or just your phone. It also does a nice job in charging all types of wireless ear buds (not just iPods.)
Besides use as a desk charger or night stand charger, the Butterfly is ideal for use in your car due to its very compact footprint.
Twelve South markets this charger as a travel accessory since its compact size makes ideal for tucking it into your suitcase. However, if you work in multiple locations (home, office, client office) this is a must-have addition to your briefcase or backpack. You never want to be facing that dreaded “low power” warning on your iPhone or Watch without access to a charger!
I checked the speed of the charger compared to a good quality Qi wireless charging pad and the Apple-supplied watch charger and the results were very comparable. I was using the Butterfly with a 20 watt power source but ideally you should pair it with a 30 watt power block to maximize charging speed.
I am delighted to give this great Twelve South ButterFly SE 2-in-1 Qi2 Travel Charger a strong recommendation! Buy it and your iPhone and Watch will sit happily in a tiny spot on your nightstand while they have all of their power needs satisfied. In fact, buy three – one for your night stand, one for your office and one kept in your suitcase/backpack for every trip!
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Cut the cord and keep enjoying your local broadcast channels in full HD. The process has never been simpler with the Insignia Amplified Ultra-Thin Indoor HDTV Antenna with a 60-mile Range. Simply connect the antenna using the provided coaxial cable to your TV or digital converter, scan for channels, and enjoy high-quality over-the-air broadcasts without a monthly subscription. The amplified design boosts performance and VHF/UHF compatibility means more channels are available right at your fingertips. The antenna can be mounted to a wall or window or be set up on a TV stand. The double-sided black and white design to fit your home d~cor.
Customer Rating
5
Powerful HD Reception Aid – Plus 4K Bonus!
on September 18, 2024
Posted by: JimC
The Insignia Indoor HDTV amplified antenna is a very effective and inexpensive way to obtain free, high quality over-the-air HD signals to your digital television.
Insignia is owned by Best Buy. It produces a broad line of consumer electronics products which have good quality and modest prices. Here is their mission statement: “We believe electronics should be dependable, affordable and easy to use. That’s why Insignia products are designed and tested to meet high standards of quality and functionality. Each product is built to last and designed with the user in mind. The result is exceptional quality at a very reasonable price.”
Most consumers are unaware that you do not need to subscribe to a cable or satellite television providers to watch all of the major networks and many of the secondary television channels. Since June 2019 all over-the-air television broadcasting in the United States has been digital. This has greatly improved signal reception (compared to the old analog transmissions) and all televisions built in the past ten years include the ability to receive these digital signals. Access to a wide variety of free programming just requires the use of an appropriate HDTV antenna. The newest televisions now incorporate ATSC 3.0 over-the-air tuners which can receive increasingly common 4K broadcasts. The Insignia indoor amplified HDTV antenna will provide excellent reception of these digital broadcasts even if you are distant from the transmitting antenna sources.
Besides access to free over-the-air television stations, this antenna can serve as an invaluable game-saver if your cable ever goes out during a major network event (such as the Super Bowl) which you planned to watch. And since the signal is not compressed (as nearly all cable signals are) the picture quality will actually exceed that of a cable provider.
Here are its key features:
• Insignia Indoor Amplified HDTV Antenna: Model NS-ANT700HAV2
• Integrated two stage amplifier boosts weak signals
• Supports VHF/UHF SD and HD signals
• Supports 4K signals if TV has ATSC 3.0 tuner
• Ultrathin flat antenna, white on one side, black on other
• Substantial surface area: 11.7” Wide x 8.3” Tall
• Effective signal range: 60 miles
• Antenna tabletop stand included
• 120” integrated coax connection cable
• 75 ohm impedance
• 75” USB mini-B power cord for amplifier
• 5 volt, 150 mAmp USB power source adaptor
• Two-sided mounting tape pads and mounting pins included
• Full easy to follow illustrated instructions
• One year limited warranty
• Insignia Indoor Amplified HDTV Antenna: Model NS-ANT700HAV2
• Integrated two stage amplifier boosts weak signals
• Supports VHF/UHF SD and HD signals
• Supports 4K signals if TV has ATSC 3.0 tuner
• Ultrathin flat antenna, white on one side, black on other
• Substantial surface area: 11.7” Wide x 8.3” Tall
• Effective signal range: 60 miles
• Antenna tabletop stand included
• 120” integrated coax connection cable
• 75 ohm impedance
• 75” USB mini-B power cord for amplifier
• 5 volt, 150 mAmp USB power source adaptor
• Two-sided mounting tape pads and mounting pins included
• Full easy to follow illustrated instructions
• One year limited warranty
Setup is very easy. Place the antenna in a direction (preferably in a window) which faces the broadcast towers of your local television stations. Attach the antenna cable to the included amplifier and connect the amplifier output to your TV’s antenna input. Then go into your TV’s settings and run a channel scan. In just a couple of minutes, you should have access to a wide variety of HD stations!
But a word of caution – try several positions for the antenna, rescan for channels each time and you will get much better results!
I live in a high rise on the lakefront in Downtown Chicago, near the buildings which house the broadcast antennas for all local channels. I have to confess that the first time I tried the antenna I did not bother to use the amplifier. I thought I could just attach the antenna to a window with some painter’s tape and that would be sufficient. I ran a channel scan and it showed 31 channels being received. I thought that was pretty good, but when I tried to watch the channels some were pixelated and some important local stations were not even on the list. I was frustrated, so I did what I should have done in the first place – I attached the amplifier and rescanned for over-the-air channels.
I also used the suggestions from this FCC website: DTV Reception Maps | Federal Communications Commission (fcc.gov) to assist in my antenna placement.
I tried several locations for the antenna and pointed it in a number of directions. Each time I rescanned and finally, after about four tries, found the optimal setup. Now 103 channels showed up this time, including every station that had been missing! I was very impressed. This included 6 “NextGen” digital channels which broadcast in 4K resolution. These channels include all of the major networks (ABC, CBS, FOX and NBC) , so sports broadcasts can be enjoyed with much greater clarity than your cable provider delivers – a real bonus for your 4K TV!
The Insignia antenna is very well built. It is light in weight and very easy to position. I used some blue painter’s tape (which won’t harm surfaces) to hold the antenna in various locations until I was satisfied with the reception. To permanently mount it you can use the two-sided mounting pads included or just continue to use tape. The connecting cable is very generous – about 10 feet long – so you have a lot of maneuvering room for locating the antenna. If you want to locate the antenna farther from your TV, just use good quality coax cable to extend the included connection cable.
The power cable to the inline amplifier is long enough (75 inches) to reach the outlet to which the TV is plugged, or you can attach the USB connection on the power cord to a USB outlet on the TV itself.
One note, when you do determine the best location for the antenna be sure to place it as high in the room as possible. This will improve signal reception since the furniture, appliances and power cords (all of which may impair signal conductivity) in your home will all be located below four feet in height.
Overall, I have to say that Insignia has added another fine item to its wonderful collection of modestly-priced technology products. I am happy to give this great device a strong recommendation! Buy one for each TV you own and you will be very happy with its ease of installation and outstanding performance.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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9of 10voted this as helpful.
Perfect match to the LG QNED Series TVs. Take your home theater sound to a new level. A total of 9 speakers, including the up-firing center speaker, a wireless subwoofer and true wireless rear speakers lets you configure an immersive surround sound environment. You~ll catch scene-setting ambient sounds you~ve never noticed before. And feel deep, bold bass that stimulates the senses and stirs hearts.
Customer Rating
5
Excellent Value in a Compact ATMOS Soundbar
on July 26, 2024
Posted by: JimC
The LG S70TR is an outstanding, speaker-packed sound bar which delivers an amazing 5.1.1 ATMOS sound experience worth far more than its modest price point. Its combination of features, sound quality and power is simply unmatched by any other sound bar system in its price class.
All great TVs, no matter the brand, are really just a beautiful visual delivery system. The speakers in even very expensive TVs are just not comparable to the display. The solution is to add a supplemental sound bar to your TV to replace those pitiful little speakers built in to it, extending the audio range of the speakers and delivering deep bass. A good rule of thumb is to spend at least half of what you spent on the TV and ideally, two-thirds or more of the cost of the TV.
The next issue is what kind of system to buy (2.0, 2.1, 3.1, 5.1 etc.). Those numbers indicate how many channels of stereo are created. 2.0 is traditional (left/right) stereo, 2.1 adds a separate sub-woofer, 3.1 adds a center channel to the left/right speakers and the subwoofer, 5.1 includes two left/right speakers up front, a center speaker, a subwoofer and two more left/right speakers positioned next to or behind where the listener sits. These systems are designed to utilize speakers at the same height as the listeners’ ears.
But in 2012 Dolby Labs introduced a new surround sound technology which added a third dimension to the sound experience through the use of “object-based audio.” Sound is projected with “height” speakers to a point above the listener which greatly adds to the impact and realism of big budget blockbuster movies. Rain falling or aircraft soaring through the sky feel as though they are really overhead, rather than simply coming from the screen. Dolby Atmos typically implements this technology through a 7.1.4 speaker arrangement. The “4” refers to the number of speakers which create sound from the top of the room (two front (left/right) height speakers plus two rear (left/right) height speakers.) Another version of this type of fully-immersive sound creation is DTS-X which uses a somewhat different approach but the same speaker arrangement. Dolby Atmos and DTS-X have become the new standards for premium movie sound.
The LG S70TR 5.1.1 sound bar effectively simulates the full 7.1.4 speaker arrangement with some very clever engineering.
Consider this fine combination of features:
• LG S70TR Soundbar (Model S70TR-AUSALLK)
• 5.1.1 speaker system with four individual speaker enclosure components
Main Sound Bar
• 6 speaker drivers: Front Left (2), Center (1), Front Right (2), Center Top (1)
• 6 30 watt amplifiers: 180 watts of total amplification power
• 37.4” wide x 2.5” tall x 4.5” deep
• Weight: 6.6 pounds
Sub-Woofer Speaker
• 7” driver with 3” rear bass port
• Wireless connection
• 220 watt amplifier
• 7.9” wide x 14.8” tall x 11.2” deep
• Weight: 12.7 pounds
Rear Surround Speakers (Left and Right)
• Rear Left and Rear Right
• Wireless connection, 315” wired connection between speakers
• 2 50 watt amplifiers: 100 watts of total amplification power
• 3.9” wide x 6.9” tall x 4.7” deep (each)
• Weight: 2.6 pounds (each)
• 500 watts of total combined amplification power
• Frequency response range: 32 Hz to 17k Hz
• Supports Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD, DTS-X, DTS Digital Surround, DTS-HD Master Audio, DTS-HD High Resolution Audio, PCM
• Inputs: Optical Digital, eARC HDMI, HDMI, WiFi, BlueTooth 5.1 (SBC, AAC)
• Output effects: AI Sound Pro, Bass Blast, Cinema, Game, Music, Sports, Standard
• Lag-free gaming response time (VRR/ALLM)
• Clear Voice Plus
• Optimized for integrated use with LG QNED televisions
• WOW Interface (combines LG QNED speakers with S70TR speakers)
• Remote control included
• Voice feedback to confirm settings
• Wall and TV mounting brackets included
• Warranty: One year parts and labor
• 5.1.1 speaker system with four individual speaker enclosure components
Main Sound Bar
• 6 speaker drivers: Front Left (2), Center (1), Front Right (2), Center Top (1)
• 6 30 watt amplifiers: 180 watts of total amplification power
• 37.4” wide x 2.5” tall x 4.5” deep
• Weight: 6.6 pounds
Sub-Woofer Speaker
• 7” driver with 3” rear bass port
• Wireless connection
• 220 watt amplifier
• 7.9” wide x 14.8” tall x 11.2” deep
• Weight: 12.7 pounds
Rear Surround Speakers (Left and Right)
• Rear Left and Rear Right
• Wireless connection, 315” wired connection between speakers
• 2 50 watt amplifiers: 100 watts of total amplification power
• 3.9” wide x 6.9” tall x 4.7” deep (each)
• Weight: 2.6 pounds (each)
• 500 watts of total combined amplification power
• Frequency response range: 32 Hz to 17k Hz
• Supports Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD, DTS-X, DTS Digital Surround, DTS-HD Master Audio, DTS-HD High Resolution Audio, PCM
• Inputs: Optical Digital, eARC HDMI, HDMI, WiFi, BlueTooth 5.1 (SBC, AAC)
• Output effects: AI Sound Pro, Bass Blast, Cinema, Game, Music, Sports, Standard
• Lag-free gaming response time (VRR/ALLM)
• Clear Voice Plus
• Optimized for integrated use with LG QNED televisions
• WOW Interface (combines LG QNED speakers with S70TR speakers)
• Remote control included
• Voice feedback to confirm settings
• Wall and TV mounting brackets included
• Warranty: One year parts and labor
In the box are the 7” wireless sub-woofer, the primary sound bar itself, two wireless rear surround sound speakers, three power cords, a sleek remote control, an HDMI cable, a pair of wall brackets for the main sound bar and a set-up book. The four speaker units are all beautifully finished in black with a slight peak on the surface with the speakers.
Set-up is easy. Just plug in the power cords to the sub-woofer, one of the two surround speakers and the main sound bar. Then connect the included speaker wire from one surround speaker to the other. The speaker wire is quite long (over 26 feet) so the two surround sound speakers can be placed nearly anywhere in the room. Next, attach an HDMI cable from the eARC HDMI port on the sound bar to the eARC HDMI port on the television. If you have other devices attached to the TV (such as a Blu-Ray player, game system, cable box, etc.) you can leave those HDMI cables as is. Or, you can route one of those HDMI cables through the sound bar. However, in either case the sound bar will take over the audio function from the TV as long as it is attached to the eARC port.
There is also an optical connection port on the sound bar but optical connections typically do not provide the range of audio needed for more complex audio such as Dolby ATMOS. You can also connect to the sound bar with Bluetooth. It supports Bluetooth 5.1 AAC so iPhones can easily connect and deliver their full sound range through the system.
The main sound bar is 37.4 inches wide and packed with 6 individual speaker drivers. There are five speakers facing you, a 4 inch oval mid-range woofer and a 2 inch tweeter each for the left and right channels, plus a 2 inch tweeter for the center channel. On the top in the center is a 2.5 inch mid-range speaker. This effectively provides the “height” information generated by Dolby ATMOS audio. Each of the speakers is powered by a substantial 30 watt amplifier (a total of 180 watts) which give plenty of punch.
The compact height of the sound bar (2.5”) is a real plus for those who have their TVs standing on a video table. It should not block the screen of any such TV.
The sub-woofer has a front-firing 7 inch driver supplemented by a 3 inch rear bass port. It is powered by a substantial 220 watt amplifier. The two surround speakers each have a 3 inch full range driver powered by a hefty 50 watt amplifier. Both the sub-woofer and the surround speakers have a green LED on the front to indicate that they are connected to the sound bar (red when disconnected.)
The eight pre-programmed sound modes map the input to the speakers in different ways. “Standard” is a simple reproduction of the original format, “Cinema” creates immersive 3D sound output from any input, best for movies. “Gaming” emphasizes the sound effects present in most video games. “Music” adjusts the bass and treble to appropriate levels for most music. “Sports” attempts to recreate the soundscape of a stadium. “Bass Blast Pro” pumps up the bass. “Clear Voice Pro” keeps spoken dialog intelligible by adjusting the center channel level independently. No more wondering what that character just said as the explosions were going off! After trying all of the sound modes I decided I liked the Surround mode best and left it on that setting. Finally, “AI Sound Pro” attempts to adjust the soundscape to match the content automatically.
OK, so enough about the impressive technical details, how does it sound? Given the modest price of this sound system, one word: INCREDIBLE!!! Press the “on” button on the slim remote, select a sound mode and you will be immersed in sound. The first thing you will notice is that deep rich bass which had been absent from your TV speakers. You can turn of the volume on the sub-woofer to floor-shaking levels if you wish! Next, the overall sound quality is superb, very clear, distortion-free with excellent midrange and highs. The remote can adjust the treble and bass level as well as the volume of each speaker individually. I have a $1,000+ 7.1.4 sound bar and surround speakers from LG’s main South Korean rival and I can honestly report that the S70TR, at about one-third the price, outperforms that system!
To truly appreciate it, access YouTube videos which showcase Dolby Atmos and DTS-X. Sit in a chair, directly in front of the sound bar and with the surround speakers behind you. Feel the sound move from the front, over you, around you, behind you – a completely immersive experience. The system does an amazing job of reproducing the full range of both Dolby Atmos and DTS-X sound files. Your home will finally reproduce that movie theater sound which you really want. And since both Netflix and Amazon Prime have incorporated Dolby Atmos into their best series, those services will be an even better bargain.
If you have one of LG’s excellent QNED televisions you get even better sound, thanks to the WOW Orchestra feature. This integrates the speakers on the television to those controlled by the sound bar to deliver an enhanced soundscape. The QNED TVs also allow you to attach this sound bar directly to the bottom of the TV with the included brackets. But this sound bar system works superbly with all TVs.
What don’t I like? The main sound bar has an LED display when you change a setting. A full LCD display on the sound bar would be far better show all settings. To access the more detailed settings you need to use the LG Soundbar app and connect the remote to the sound bar by Bluetooth. You really need to download the full owner’s manual (or access it through the LF Soundbar app) to fully understand how to use all of the features.
But, the bottom line is that the incredible sound and amazing setup simplicity of the LG S70TR make it a superb choice for an ATMOS audio system. It is an excellent value for serious video fans who want to enrich their audio experience to theater quality. You will find that this modest investment truly produces excellent returns of auditory enjoyment!
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Why settle for a single band when you can have two? The Best Buy essentials Nylon Band for Apple Watch 44mm, 45mm, SE (1-3), Ultra 49mm and Ultra 2 49mm (2-Pack) gives you two bands to choose from. The nylon design with a metal clasp stays firmly in place to keep your watch safe. Each band adjusts from 5 to 8.6 inches, ensuring a comfortable fit all day, every day. Two are better than one with this Best Buy essentials nylon band two-pack.
Customer Rating
5
Slick Pair of Comfortable Watchbands!
on May 11, 2024
Posted by: JimC
The Best Buy Essentials Nylon Band Two Pack is an excellent choice for a pair of comfortable, economical watchbands which will fit almost all Apple Watch models.
Best Buy Essentials is Best Buy’s line of products which are “The everyday accessories you need to connect, power and protect your tech.” These are created to meet your basic needs with good quality and modest prices. They are designed and tested to meet high standards of quality and functionality. Each product is built to last and designed with the user in mind. The result is exceptional quality at a very reasonable price.
Here are the key features of these nice bands:
• Best Buy Essentials Nylon Band 2 Pack (Model: BE-AWB41SNY2PG)
• Colors: Black and Grey
• Compatible Apple Watch Models: Series 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, SE
• Compatible Apple Watch Sizes: 42mm, 44mm, 45mm, 49mm
• Material: Waterproof elastic nylon
• Minimum size: 3.75 inches (band only), 5.5 inches (with watch)
• Maximum size (unstretched): 7.25 inches (band only), 9.0 inches (with watch)
• Width: 1.0 inches
• Adjustable clasp
• Lightweight: 0.4 ounces (11 grams)
• One year warranty on parts and labor
• Made in China
• Colors: Black and Grey
• Compatible Apple Watch Models: Series 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, SE
• Compatible Apple Watch Sizes: 42mm, 44mm, 45mm, 49mm
• Material: Waterproof elastic nylon
• Minimum size: 3.75 inches (band only), 5.5 inches (with watch)
• Maximum size (unstretched): 7.25 inches (band only), 9.0 inches (with watch)
• Width: 1.0 inches
• Adjustable clasp
• Lightweight: 0.4 ounces (11 grams)
• One year warranty on parts and labor
• Made in China
The first requirement for any watch band is function. Will they protect your investment? Yes, these are well-made watch bands which will securely position your valuable Apple Watch onto your wrist. Once adjusted, they will keep your watch in place and prevent it from slipping up or down your arm. The clasp cannot come loose (unlike a buckle-type band). It is easy to adjust and once set, will not change.
The next most important feature of a band is comfort. These nylon bands are very lightweight (0.4 ounces) and soft to the touch. They will not pinch your skin. Since the Apple Watch has sensors on the bottom (skin side) it is important to have a band which will keep the watch pressed closely to your arm. These bands will reliably do that without discomfort.
The third aspect of a band to consider is appearance. These bands are an excellent complement to the two Apple Watch titanium colors: natural – grey and DLC coated – black. The grey color also works well with the stainless steel and grey aluminum watch bodies. If you have a watch body in another color the grey and black bands will provide a neutral backdrop to those colors.
Finally, the issue of durability should be weighed. The nylon material should stand up well over time. Obviously I have not have time to test it over a period of many months for color-fastness and abrasion-resistance, but nylon is pretty trustworthy in these measures. I recommend removing the band from the watch every few weeks and washing it with a mild hand soap to remove any accumulated oils, perspiration and external soiling. The fact that Best Buy gives these bands a one year warranty speaks well of their expected durability.
The bottom line is that these comfortable bands are very attractively priced and should give you great service. I can confidently give this pair of Best Buy Essentials Nylon Apple Watch Bands a strong and positive recommendation!
I would recommend this to a friend!
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10of 10voted this as helpful.
The eufy clean X8 Pro SES robotic vacuum with self-emptying station, twin-turbine 2x4,000 Pa powerful suction, active detangling roller brush, and iPath laser navigation for 45* days of hands-free deep cleaning.
Customer Rating
5
Superb Choice for a Robot Vacuum, plus It Mops!!!
on December 15, 2023
Posted by: JimC
The Eufy X8 Pro is simply a delight to own and use. It has amazing suction power, an incredible mapping/navigation system, a useful moping capability and a great charging/emptying station. Its app is easy to use and keeps you informed of its progress in cleaning and any maintenance issues. Just a superb choice in this product category!
Eufy is a brand of consumer electronics products produced by Anker Innovations, Ltd., an electronics firm founded in 2011 and based in Changsha, Hunan, China. It began as a laptop battery manufacturer, expanded to smartphone chargers and power banks. It launched a number of brands including Bolder, Soundcore, Nebula, Solix, Powerline and Karapax. Eufy began in 2016 and is devoted to developing connected, smart home products including security equipment, cleaning systems. healthcare and pet care devices.
Here are the key specifications on this great device:
• Eufy X8 Pro Robotic Vacuum with Self-Empty Station (Model T2276)
• Self-Empty Station charges and stores vacuum, empties robot’s dust bin
• 2.5 liter anti-bacterial, deodorizing hepa-filtered dust bag holds up to 45 days’ cleaning
• Twin-turbo vacuum suction with 2X 4,000 PA power
• Patented pro-detangle comb on roller brush reduces need for manual removal of hair on brush
• Tri-arm edge-sweeping brush improves edge cleaning
• Laser-guided mapping function creates optimal routes and provides obstacle avoidance
• AI. Map 2.0 customizes mapping with No-Go Zones, virtual boundaries and multi-floor mapping
• Deep-cleaning mop attachment with three levels of automatic water flow
• BoostIQ automatically increases suction power based upon the surface condition
• 14.4 volt 5200 mAmp-hour lithium ion battery
• 335 ml onboard dustbin capacity
• 270 ml water tank capacity for mopping
• Anti-drop sensor prevents robot from falling down stairs
• Eufy Clean app controls all functions, monitors maintenance, retains cleaning history and maps
• Spot cleaning mode to intensely clean a 4.9 ft x 4.9 ft area
• Mapping allows room cleaning mode, editing room boundaries, naming rooms
• Child lock to prevent tampering
• Alexa and Google Assistant compatible
• Dimensions: 13.1” diameter x 3.2” height
• 12 month warranty on parts and labor
• Self-Empty Station charges and stores vacuum, empties robot’s dust bin
• 2.5 liter anti-bacterial, deodorizing hepa-filtered dust bag holds up to 45 days’ cleaning
• Twin-turbo vacuum suction with 2X 4,000 PA power
• Patented pro-detangle comb on roller brush reduces need for manual removal of hair on brush
• Tri-arm edge-sweeping brush improves edge cleaning
• Laser-guided mapping function creates optimal routes and provides obstacle avoidance
• AI. Map 2.0 customizes mapping with No-Go Zones, virtual boundaries and multi-floor mapping
• Deep-cleaning mop attachment with three levels of automatic water flow
• BoostIQ automatically increases suction power based upon the surface condition
• 14.4 volt 5200 mAmp-hour lithium ion battery
• 335 ml onboard dustbin capacity
• 270 ml water tank capacity for mopping
• Anti-drop sensor prevents robot from falling down stairs
• Eufy Clean app controls all functions, monitors maintenance, retains cleaning history and maps
• Spot cleaning mode to intensely clean a 4.9 ft x 4.9 ft area
• Mapping allows room cleaning mode, editing room boundaries, naming rooms
• Child lock to prevent tampering
• Alexa and Google Assistant compatible
• Dimensions: 13.1” diameter x 3.2” height
• 12 month warranty on parts and labor
One measure of quality is how well the manufacturer packs its technology. On this score Eufy gets an A+. The outer shipping box exactly fits the inner box, holding it safely during transit. The inner box contains shock-absorbing materials and the vacuum itself is carefully covered with protective plastic on all important surfaces.
When you remove the X8 Pro from the box you will be impressed by its finish quality. It looks like the sophisticated high-tech device that it is, but it also looks very solid. The main driving wheels have a pair of deep lug patterns and are about 5/8” wide so it gets excellent traction. The color is a deep charcoal grey. There are just three buttons on top, but they are sufficient to access key functions.
In the box are the robot vacuum, the self-empty station/power dock, the mop attachment, a roller cleaning tool, a waterproof clear plastic pad and a quick set-up guide.
Setting up the X8 Pro is simple. Position the self-empty station/power dock against a wall and plug it in. It is about 15 inches tall and, with the robot attached for charging, it requires about 18 inches of depth from the wall. The included clear plastic mat may be placed under the unit to protect your floor from any drips from the mop pad if using that feature.
Setting up the X8 Pro is simple. Position the self-empty station/power dock against a wall and plug it in. It is about 15 inches tall and, with the robot attached for charging, it requires about 18 inches of depth from the wall. The included clear plastic mat may be placed under the unit to protect your floor from any drips from the mop pad if using that feature.
Download the Eufy Clean app and register as a user. Then connect the X8 Pro to your 2.4 GHz wireless router. I found that it maintained good connection with my wireless network throughout my 2,400 square foot home.
You can start the vacuum with the app, using the onboard buttons or through Alexa or Google Assistant. When started, the robot smoothly pulls away from the charging dock then begins its search and destroy mission against the dirt on your floors. First it maps your home, determines where any obstacles reside and computes an optimal path. The mapping process is very sophisticated. It uses an artificial intelligence system (AI.Map 2.0) and a LiDAR sensor (Precise iPath Laser) to determine the physical characteristics of your rooms, including any furniture in place. You can watch this process on the app and it is really interesting to see it discover the shape of rooms and then navigate around them. Once it has finished mapping it divides the entire area into cleaning segments.
The X8 Pro is about 3.2” tall and a slightly over 13.1” wide so it will easily travel under most furniture and between chair legs. It is amazingly quiet (about the same noise level as an electric razor) and makes a low purring noise as it travels around the room.
But does it work? Yes – very well! I have a mixture of hardwood floors, granite floors and some area rugs. There are thresholds between several of the rooms because some of the floors are at slightly different heights. The Eufy X8 Pro effortlessly rode through the apartment, climbed over the thresholds and diligently vacuumed every available open space. The robot begins the vacuuming process by driving around the perimeter of each defined area, then methodically going back and forth within each area. If there are any obstacles (such as chair legs) it will go around each one, getting as close as possible to ensure thorough cleaning. The cleaning process relies upon two elements: the extraordinary suction power of the twin turbo-cyclone design (each providing 4,000 PA) over the rotating vacuum brush and the tri-armed sweep brush which directs dirt into the vacuum chamber. The sweep brush is really effective at cleaning along the wall and under cabinet overhangs. Don’t worry about large items in the path of the vacuum - it even picks up all of the dry leaves which fall off my ficus tree plants, which often clog a standard vacuum.
The vacuuming takes about one minute per ten square feet and the battery lasts for about 120 minutes of cleaning. When the battery charge drops under 10% the robot announces that it is heading for home to recharge and it makes a direct route back to the self-empty/charging station.
If at any time you want to end the cleaning, just hit the “Home” button and the X8 will immediately find its way back to the charging dock.
If at any time you want to end the cleaning, just hit the “Home” button and the X8 will immediately find its way back to the charging dock.
And, yes, it is super fun to watch it run around your home!
A nice feature is that you can set the device to automatically empty after each cleaning or have the emptying process activated manually (through the app or by pushing buttons on the robot). This allows you to manually empty the dust bin if you want to extend the life of the bag in the station. The dust bin and its HEPA filter lift out of the robot for easy cleaning. Just dump it into your waste basket and give it a quick rinse (allow to dry for 24 hours afterward) and you are done.
If you choose to use the self-empty function you will find that it is very efficient. The included high quality anti-bacterial, deodorizing HEPA-filtered bag is 2.5 liters (compared to the 0.335 liter capacity of the internal dust bin). Eufy says that it will last about 45 days of normal use. Once you register the vacuum Eufy will send you two more bags for free.
I thought my apartment was pretty clean at the start, but after each of the first few vacuum cycles I checked the internal dust collection bin and was surprised to see that it was full. Every time I started the robot vacuum it found more dirt, dust, hair than I would have thought possible. The fact that the X8 goes under couches, beds, dressers, tables and chairs probably accounts for the impressive amount of dirt it collects.
Maintenance of the vacuum is also easy. The roller brush has an auto-detangling comb which will remove most hair caught onto it. But the roller brush also removes easily and it was no trouble to clean off any remaining trapped hair using the included tool or by hand. Eufy is aware that parts have limited life so they offer replacement parts at reasonable prices, including a battery ($50), a dust bin ($24) and a comprehensive parts kit with two tri-arm sweep brushes, four HEPA filters, a roller brush and a brush guard ($35).
The Eufy Clean app is really great. You can use it to alter the suction power to one of four levels or set it to automatic (BoostIQ) which will vary the suction power depending upon surface conditions. You can also select other modes such as “Spot cleaning” which intensively vacuums a 25 square foot area.
In addition, you can schedule cleaning at programmed times, redefine the maps, clean just a specific room, or a combination of rooms. You can set “Do not go” areas in the maps to fence off sections from the vacuum. If you have multiple floors in your home the robot will store maps of each floor.
In the app is the vacuum’s cleaning history, the battery charge status and an estimate of the remaining life of the brushes and filter. You can even change the voice and language used by the robot.
Because the X8 is connected to your WiFi network you can activate it even when you are not home thru the app. You can watch the robot’s progress on your phone. Much more entertaining than some lame TikTok videos! (See photo of a cleaning map.)
I was really interested in the damp mop function on my uncarpeted floors. Just put water (or a floor cleaning solution) into the 270 ml tank, attach the included cleaning/mopping unit onto the bottom of the X8, then just start a cleaning cycle in the room you want to mop and it will do a pretty good job of cleaning that floor. This feature alone is enough to set this device above its competitors.
The Eufy website has many informative videos which explain every aspect of the X8 capabilities.
This is an absolutely superior device and I enthusiatically recommend it with a full five stars for its many features, high quality and terrific performance.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+43points
44of 45voted this as helpful.
Dependable storage for your favorite devices, wherever you go - that's what the Crucial X9 Portable SSD offers. With lots of space for all yoru favorite photos, videos, games and more, the Crucial X9 gives you speedy file transfers and compatibility with PCs, Macs, tablets, gaming consoles and Android phones, making it the perfect plug-and-play storage solution
Customer Rating
5
Fast Transfer Rate, Ultra Compact but Very Rugged!
on October 28, 2023
Posted by: JimC
The Crucial X9 2 TB SSD Portable hard drive is a very reliable, inexpensive, easy to use and compact means of backing up your precious files, photos, videos and music from all of your primary devices. It is an essential accessory which can be used in an automatic or manual (batch) mode to very rapidly create backups of your data and preserve them against loss or corruption. It utilizes solid state NAND memory which is much faster and far more reliable than physical hard drive technology.
Crucial is a line of DRAM and flash memory products produced by Micron Technology, Inc. Micron was founded in Boise, Idaho in 1978 as a four person semiconductor design company. In 1980 Micron built its first fabrication plant, producing its first product, a 64K DRAM in 1981. It became a public company in 1984 and that same year produced a 256K DRAM, followed by a 1 MB DRAM in 1987. Crucial was created in 1996 to sell memory upgrades to end-users. Later Micron acquired Texas Instruments’ memory business and Toshiba’s DRAM operations. In 2002 Micron created the first 1 GB DDR DRAM, then in 2004 the first 2 GB NAND flash memory product. Micron Technology continued to make acquisitions, including Lexar Media, and today has annual sales of $16 billion.
Here are the key features of this great backup tool:
• Crucial X9 2.0 Terabyte portable external solid state hard drive (SSD) (Model: CT2000X9SSD9)
• USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10 GB/sec) interface and power source, USB 2.0 compatible
• Up to 1,050 MB/sec data transfer rate
• Utilizes Micron 176 level 3D QLC NAND
• Endurance: 1,000+ write cycles
• Drop-proof up to 7 feet
• Highly resistant to shock, vibration and extreme temperatures
• Music capacity: Approximately 11,000 albums (240,000 songs) at high quality compression
• Video capacity: Approximately 240 hours of HD video
• Matt black ABS plastic case
• 9.5 inch USB-C to USB-C connection cable
• Very Compact: 2.0 x 2.5 x 0.4 inches
• Featherweight: 1.6 ounces (including cable)
• Lanyard hole (no lanyard included)
• Includes Acronis True Image software for backing up and cloning drive
• Also includes one month trial of Mylio Photos for photo organizing and one month trial to Adobe Acrobat Pro software
• Three year limited warranty
• USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10 GB/sec) interface and power source, USB 2.0 compatible
• Up to 1,050 MB/sec data transfer rate
• Utilizes Micron 176 level 3D QLC NAND
• Endurance: 1,000+ write cycles
• Drop-proof up to 7 feet
• Highly resistant to shock, vibration and extreme temperatures
• Music capacity: Approximately 11,000 albums (240,000 songs) at high quality compression
• Video capacity: Approximately 240 hours of HD video
• Matt black ABS plastic case
• 9.5 inch USB-C to USB-C connection cable
• Very Compact: 2.0 x 2.5 x 0.4 inches
• Featherweight: 1.6 ounces (including cable)
• Lanyard hole (no lanyard included)
• Includes Acronis True Image software for backing up and cloning drive
• Also includes one month trial of Mylio Photos for photo organizing and one month trial to Adobe Acrobat Pro software
• Three year limited warranty
The Crucial X9 is very tiny, much smaller than a conventional external drive (see photo comparison with a standard 2 TB drive next to the X9). The SSD is an attractive little package in matte black with glossy edges. But more importantly, it seems solid and should give good protection for the drive. Crucial states that the X9 drive can survive a 7 foot drop and is resistant to shock, vibration and temperature extremes.
Most users really don’t understand how fragile a conventional hard drive can be. They consist of a set of magnetic platters rotating at high rate (usually 5400 RPM or higher) with a set of pickup arms moving across their surface to read the data and transfer it. While hard drives are somewhat shock resistant, a hard jolt can actually cause the arm to contact the platter surface and permanently damage the drive. That is why laptops frequently have hard drive failures – users casually bump them, drop them or otherwise abuse them. Solid State Drives (SSD) are immune to this kind of damage.
Use of this Crucial external drive could not be easier. Just attach the included USB connection cord, plug it into a USB C port on your computer and look for a drive labeled “Crucial X9.” The connection cable provides the power for the drive. The included Acronis and trial software is on the SSD and there is a link to register the drive’s warranty with Crucial. I suggest that you copy all files to a folder on your PC. Then reformat the X9 to use the NTFS file system. This is a quick process and will enable you to store larger files on the SSD.
While the Acronis backup software will do a nice job of backing up your hard drive, I suggest that you follow a simple manual procedure which is reliable and fool-proof.
First, download a copy of the free Belarc Advisor software. It will create a detailed inventory of your programs and hardware, but most significantly, it will record the software license keys needed to reinstall some software (such as the Windows operating system and Microsoft Office.) Save this as a PDF with the date in the file name.
First, download a copy of the free Belarc Advisor software. It will create a detailed inventory of your programs and hardware, but most significantly, it will record the software license keys needed to reinstall some software (such as the Windows operating system and Microsoft Office.) Save this as a PDF with the date in the file name.
Next, create a new folder on the Crucial X9, labeled with the name of your computer and the date. Find the “Users” folder in the C drive and drag the subfolders (Documents, Desktop, Pictures, Videos, Music, etc.) it over to that new folder on the SSD. That will copy all of your personal files and key hidden files (like the PST file used by Outlook to store emails, calendar and contacts.). Don’t bother copying your programs or the Windows files since if your PC fails, you will need to reinstall all of them. But the list of programs in the Belarc PDF will tell you what you need to reinstall. The more important files are your personal documents, photos, music, videos, etc. You might also make a practice of creating a copy of any of your downloaded software into a separate subfolder in your Users folder. That will make it easier to recover.
Do the above procedure as often as you feel necessary. I suggest once every three months for each of your computers for all of your User files. Keep the two most recent backups and (if you wish) delete the older backups.
But here is the most important piece of advice I can give: Don’t assume that your backup folder is safe on just one backup hard drive! Buy a second Crucial X9 and make a second backup of your precious files on it. If you are really paranoid (or just very safety conscious) store that second external hard drive in your safe deposit box or at a storage facility. That will protect it in the event of theft or fire destroying your PC and your on-site backup hard drive.
How long does it take to back up all of your files? The Music folder on my primary computer is 42.191 GB and it took just 138 seconds to copy it to the Crucial X9. That was an average data transfer rate of about 305.7 MB/second. Keep in mind that data transfer rates will vary based upon your own computer’s processor, RAM and hard drive, but you can assume that it will take about 10 minutes in most cases and you can keep using your PC while the backup is proceeding. By the way, if you have an older PC which does not have USB-C ports and has only USB 2.0 ports, the backup process will still work, but it will take much longer (10X-20X) as long for the data transfer to take place. You will also need to use a USB-C to USB-A cable (which is not included with the Crucial X9, but readily available.)
For comparison, I copied that same Music folder over to a standard 2GB external HDD, connected to a 3.2 USB Type A port. That port is about half as fast (10 GB/sec vs 20 GB/sec) as a USB Type C port. The copy process took 4,086 seconds – an average transfer rate of just 10.3 MB/second. The older style HDD took about 30 times as long as the Crucial X9!
Are there any drawbacks to SSD technology? Theoretically, the NAND memory cells have a limited number of write/erase cycles. Each time the cell is erased to store new data an oxide layer necessary for operation is slightly eroded. Eventually the data in the cell cannot be changed. At that point the drive will still allow access to the stored data but it cannot be changed. For the type of memory used in the Crucial X9 the maximum number of write cycles is about 1,000. However, no user is likely to ever hit that number of write cycles in normal use. It would mean writing and erasing about 2,000 terabytes of data on the same Crucial X9. That would mean backing up your PC and replacing that backup about 5,000 times since a full backup would be about 400 GB of data. That would never happen!
The Crucial X9 is very rugged – you can drop it, shake it, store it in a hot attic or an unheated garage – and it will still function perfectly. It is ideal for long-term storage of your precious data.
Bottom line: Don’t hesitate; buy a pair of these Crucial X9 2.0 TB drives! It is a bargain at a price of about $50 per TB, is made by a premier semiconductor manufacturer, could not be easier to use and will ensure that you will always have a reliable copy of your irreplaceable photos, videos, documents and all of the other essential elements of your personal history. But after you buy it, make sure that you use it every few months to create a full backup of your files. Someday you will be very grateful that you did so!
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+39points
39of 39voted this as helpful.
Get loud on the go. Motif II A.N.C. offers huge sound, in a tiny package. Its sleek charging case packs a punch by powering your headphones with 30 hours playtime to be unleashed whenever you want. With active noise cancellation, block out those crowded train rides and rowdy streets to dive into your music without distraction. For a quick conversation, switch over to transparency mode and let the outside in. As well as an added microphone, Motif II A.N.C. comes ready for BT LE Audio, so you~ll be better connected than ever before. For an even more customised listening experience, download the Marshall app. With Motif II A.N.C., you~re always ready for the road.
Customer Rating
5
Improved ANC Earbuds with Classic Marshall Sound!
on September 25, 2023
Posted by: JimC
Two years ago Marshall introduced their great Motif Active Noise Cancelling earbuds which brought the classic Marshall sound to active outdoor enthusiasts. Now they have brought an improved version, the Motif II, to the stage and it is a rock star! Better battery life, better noise reduction, richer sound!
Founded in 1963, Marshall Amplification has become the best known designer and manufacturer of professional music amplifiers and stage speakers. Its classic “Marshall” script on the grill cloth is a guarantee that the equipment is top quality and will produce, as Pete Townshend noted, “sizzling sound with crunch!” Since 2010 Marshall has worked closely with Sweden’s top-rated Zound Industries to create consumer versions of its audio equipment. This review will focus on the latest of these collaborations, the Marshall Motif II ANC wireless Bluetooth earphones.
They are priced a bit lower than AirPods but I believe offer better features:
They are priced a bit lower than AirPods but I believe offer better features:
• Marshall Motif II ANC Bluetooth true wireless earbuds (Model 1006450)
• 6 mm dynamic drivers, 16 ohm impedance
• Frequency response range: 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz
• Excellent driver sensitivity: 108 (+/- 2) dB @ 1 mW, 1 KHz
• Bluetooth 5.3 LE connectivity, 30+ foot range, Codecs: SBC, AAC, LC3
• Active Noise Cancellation with Transparency mode
• Two integrated microphones in each earbud for phone calls and ANC cancellation
• IPX5 water resistance (safe against low pressure water stream), IPX4 in case
• Multi-function touch controls (play, pause, skip/back track, accept/end phone call, ANC setting, equalizer selection, Spotify TAP, volume) on each earbud
• Lithium polymer battery life: 6 hours playtime with ANC, 9 hours with ANC off, 30 hours total with in-case recharging (with ANC), 43 hours total with in-case recharging (ANC off)
• 1.5 hour recharge time from full discharge; 15 minute recharge provides 1 hour playtime
• Charging: Wireless (Qi pad required, not included) or with included USB-C cable
• Hard shell carrying case which recharges earbuds and initiates Bluetooth pairing
• 8” USB-C 5V-12V recharge cable included
• Three silicone ear tip sizes (small, medium, large) included
• Weight: 4.31 gram (earbuds), 55.7 gram (in charging case)
• One year warranty on parts and labor
• 6 mm dynamic drivers, 16 ohm impedance
• Frequency response range: 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz
• Excellent driver sensitivity: 108 (+/- 2) dB @ 1 mW, 1 KHz
• Bluetooth 5.3 LE connectivity, 30+ foot range, Codecs: SBC, AAC, LC3
• Active Noise Cancellation with Transparency mode
• Two integrated microphones in each earbud for phone calls and ANC cancellation
• IPX5 water resistance (safe against low pressure water stream), IPX4 in case
• Multi-function touch controls (play, pause, skip/back track, accept/end phone call, ANC setting, equalizer selection, Spotify TAP, volume) on each earbud
• Lithium polymer battery life: 6 hours playtime with ANC, 9 hours with ANC off, 30 hours total with in-case recharging (with ANC), 43 hours total with in-case recharging (ANC off)
• 1.5 hour recharge time from full discharge; 15 minute recharge provides 1 hour playtime
• Charging: Wireless (Qi pad required, not included) or with included USB-C cable
• Hard shell carrying case which recharges earbuds and initiates Bluetooth pairing
• 8” USB-C 5V-12V recharge cable included
• Three silicone ear tip sizes (small, medium, large) included
• Weight: 4.31 gram (earbuds), 55.7 gram (in charging case)
• One year warranty on parts and labor
Download the Marshall Bluetooth app to provide a full user guide, equalizer settings, ANC sensitivity, touch controls, charge status and other additional features.
Everything is extremely well made and the earbuds have a special coating to protect them from scratches and moisture. The thicker curled black knobs and Marshall “M” script really look good. The bottom of the earbud knob is now an attractive polished gold with a pattern like the knobs on those big Marshall stage amps – a very slick touch! The charging/carry case is covered in black alligator tolex (the same material used on their amps.)
First step is to charge the ear buds in the clam shell charging case. Just place the case on a Qi pad or attach the USB-C charging cable and LED lights will tell you when they are fully charged. The case itself serves as a supplemental battery, holding four full additional charges even when disconnected from power. Pop the earbuds back into the case for 15 minutes and you have another hour of charge. Leave them in for an hour and they are fully charged again. You can do that three or four times before the case itself needs recharging. I tested the claimed battery life – 6 hours when using ANC, 9 hours with ANC off and can confirm that it is accurate. Frankly, I rarely use the ANC feature on any headphone because it always seems to detract from full and accurate music reproduction, but it does work well on these earbuds when switched on.
The Marshall Motif II ANC earbuds are truly wireless and fit very securely in the ear, thanks to their somewhat boxy oblong shape which conforms well to the ear’s interior. Try the three supplied rubber ear tips to select the one which feels most comfortable for long sessions. For me the small tip gave the best fit and enabled me to get the best sound quality. The Bluetooth connection just requires pressing a button on the charging/carrying case for a few seconds. The new 5.3 LE Bluetooth specification provided a solid connection up to 50 feet from my phone and was very stable in all conditions.
Sound quality is superb, very clear, distortion-free with excellent midrange and highs. And the bass is very good – just what you would expect from Marshall. The Marshall Bluetooth app includes an equalizer with five pre-set sound profiles (Bass Boost, Mid Boost, Treble Boost, Mid Reduction and “Marshall”) and one sound profile that you can customize. I found that the various options matched well to the various music genres in my extensive library. Naturally, the Marshall setting was best for hard rock!
I am a fairly serious runner and biker and have always been annoyed by the wires connecting my earphones to my iPhone so having an earbud that would stay in my ear under all conditions is essential. I considered AirPods but some friends who used them said that they can fall out if you sweat a lot during your workout, and frankly, I think they look a little weird. Fortunately, the Marshall Motif II has both great aesthetics and superb ergonomics – a very nice solution to the problem.
You choose earbuds for outside activities – will they stay in? Yes!!! I took them for a long (three hour) run and never had a problem even as I worked up a good sweat in 80+ degree weather. But running is probably not the biggest test. Can you rely upon the fit while biking? The next day I went for an all-day ride over some rough roads and once again they performed perfectly. They never felt loose. I recharged them in the case after about 5 hours while I stopped for food but that was quick. The case is compact and unobtrusive in your pocket, but for most workouts you can rely upon the 6 hour playing time from each charge and leave the case at home.
Other features? The earbuds have excellent touch controls (play, pause, skip/back track, accept/end phone calls, ANC setting, equalizer selection, Spotify TAP, volume) which work well. The ANC function has a Transparency setting which amplifies ambient sounds when desired (e.g., conversations in noisy settings). The earbuds are sealed and have an IPX5 rating so even a stream of water on them will not cause damage, so have no fear about using them in the rain. (Airpods are rated only IPX4.) The very light weight (4.3 gram) of the earbuds really enhances their comfort when wearing them for long periods. Drawbacks? The included owner’s manual is thick, so you think – great, lots of instructions and tips - but then you find it has only one page of information repeated in 36 languages! Fortunately, the app has all the information you need, so no worries.
Bottom line? If you want to be transported back to the musical glories of the rock era but don’t want to give up any of the technologic comforts of today buy these outstanding earbuds. They have my highest and unqualified endorsement and you will crank up your personal cool quotient to 11.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+45points
45of 45voted this as helpful.
Compatible with Amazon Fire Max 11 (2023 Release) & Amazon Fire HD 10, (13th Gen, 2023 release) Tablets. Perfect for drawing, sketching, coloring, taking notes, and marking up PDFs. No pairing involved, simply insert the provided battery and start using the stylus with your tablet. USI 2.0 certified stylus. Compatible with USI 2.0 supported devices.
Customer Rating
5
Slick and Very Handy Accessory!
on August 25, 2023
Posted by: JimC
The Amazon Fire Max 11 is their latest and most versatile device offering superb general purpose tablet computing, streaming capability and internet access services. The Amazon Stylus Pen is specifically designed to complement its functions.
Amazon was founded in Bellevue, Washington in 1994 as an online bookstore. Over the next five years It expanded to offer a wide variety of products and today accounts for about 40% of all online retail sales. In 2002 the company created Amazon Web Services to offer cloud computing and web storage services and today it is a leading force in that industry. Amazon Prime subscription service was launched in 2005, offering free shipping and later, music and video streaming. Amazon began creating its own electronic products starting with the Kindle e-reader in 2007. This led to the development of the Fire operating system (based upon Android) and Fire tablets. The first Fire tablet was a 7 inch model released in 2011. Successive generations incorporated various improvements. The fifth generation was a 10 inch HD model in 2015. The Fire Max 11 is the 13th and latest generation of these tablets.
Here are the key features of this new stylus:
• Amazon Stylus Pen for Fire Max 11 (Model: ME-USI306, UPC: 850047941152)
• Manufacturer: Maxeye
• USI 2.0 certified stylus, compatible with all USI 2.0 supported devices
• 1.5 mm tip
• 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity
• Enables tilt support +/- 45 degrees
• Automatically paired with Fire Max 11 tablet
• Powered by included AAAA battery
• 6 month expected battery life
• Sleep mode feature extends battery life
• Magnetically attaches to side of Fire Max 11 tablet
• One replacement tip included
• Tip puller included
• Aluminum body with magnetic edge
• Dimensions: 5.85 inches Long, 0.37 inch Thickness
• Weight: 0.7 ounce
• Manufacturer: Maxeye
• USI 2.0 certified stylus, compatible with all USI 2.0 supported devices
• 1.5 mm tip
• 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity
• Enables tilt support +/- 45 degrees
• Automatically paired with Fire Max 11 tablet
• Powered by included AAAA battery
• 6 month expected battery life
• Sleep mode feature extends battery life
• Magnetically attaches to side of Fire Max 11 tablet
• One replacement tip included
• Tip puller included
• Aluminum body with magnetic edge
• Dimensions: 5.85 inches Long, 0.37 inch Thickness
• Weight: 0.7 ounce
The new Amazon Stylus Pen is the first USI device introduced by Amazon for its Fire tablets. It was designed specifically for the Fire Max 11. It is compatible both aesthetically and functionally with that great tablet.
A USI (Universal Stylus Initiative) device is certified to work with a variety of products (laptops, tablets, phones) which can accept stylus input. The USI pen works by initiating a two-way communication with the writing surface to collaborate on the pressure sensitivity and location to enable more accurate writing or sketching.
It is a nice slate grey color which matches the aluminum case of the Fire Max 11. It has a flat edge which magnetically attaches to the left side of the tablet (in landscape mode.)
The settings function of the Fire Max 11 can adjust the width of line (thin, medium and thick) and select the color of the line (eight choices including black and white).
The tip should last a long time, but in the event it is damaged, Amazon includes a spare in the package, along with a tool for removal/reinsertion of the tip.
There are quite a few apps in the Amazon Appstore which help you to make full use of the capabilities of the Stylus Pen for graphics, note-taking, sketching, calligraphy, etc. Look them over and you are sure to find several which are useful and fun.
There is also a brief tutorial on the use of the stylus built into the Fire Max 11.
If you use your tablet for graphics, photo editing or document review the Stylus Pen is invaluable and adds a great deal of functionality to the Fire Max 11. The tablet has excellent handwriting recognition/text conversion capability so the stylus may be used quite often. One common use is to add margin notes to Kindle books.
It would be nice if the pen was powered by a rechargeable power source , but AAAA batteries are less than $2 and I am sure that Amazon runs sales on them from time to time for even less.
I recommend that any buyer of the Fire Max 11 add the Amazon Stylus Pen to their purchase. For a relatively small additional cost it will enable a great many possibilities afforded by this superb device.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+30points
33of 36voted this as helpful.
Beauty is in the details. This beautiful, sleek, and unbelievably lightweight tablet (as thin as a pencil and weighs about a pound) is designed for on-the-go durability with an aluminum exterior and strengthened alumino-silicate glass. For your privacy and convenience, it comes with a fingerprint sensor to unlock your device, making this your all-day, every day, can't-live-without tablet. This is an ad supported device that displays sponsored screensavers on the devices lockscreen.
Customer Rating
5
Faster, Bigger Screen, Great Accessories!
on August 25, 2023
Posted by: JimC
The Amazon Fire Max 11 is their latest and most versatile device offering superb general purpose tablet computing, streaming capability and internet access services.
Amazon was founded in Bellevue, Washington in 1994 as an online bookstore. Over the next five years It expanded to offer a wide variety of products and today accounts for about 40% of all online retail sales. In 2002 the company created Amazon Web Services to offer cloud computing and web storage services and today it is a leading force in that industry. Amazon Prime subscription service was launched in 2005, offering free shipping and later, music and video streaming. Amazon began creating its own electronic products starting with the Kindle e-reader in 2007. This led to the development of the Fire operating system (based upon Android) and Fire tablets. The first Fire tablet was a 7 inch model released in 2011. Successive generations incorporated various improvements. The fifth generation was a 10 inch HD model in 2015. The Fire Max 11 is the 13th and latest generation of these tablets.
Here are the key features of this great tablet:
• Amazon Fire Max 11 13th Generation, 2023 release tablet (Model: KFSNWI, UPC: 840268901325)
• Memory Installed: 64 GB main/4 GB processor; Expansion via MicroSDXC: up to 1 TB
• Operating system: Fire OS 8.3.1.9 (based on Android 11)
• Screen: 11 inch IPS LCD, Resolution: 1200 x 2000, 213 ppi, Brightness: 410 nits
• Processor: Octa-core 2x2.2 GHz Cortex A78, 6x2.0 GHz Cortex A55
• GPU: Mali G57 MC2
• 8 MP/1080p autofocus rear camera, 8 MP/1080p front camera
• Two stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos sound processing
• Two microphones
• Built-in Alexa with Show Mode
• Fingerprint reader on power button
• WiFi 6: 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax dual band
• Bluetooth: 5.3 BLE connectivity
• USB-C port for charging and accessory connection
• Power: 15 watt Li-Ion battery, 14 hour usage life, 4.2 hour charging time
• 39 inch USB-A to USB-C power cable, 5.2 volt/1.8 amp/9.0 watt AC charger
• Aluminum case
• Dimensions: 10.2 inches Wide, 6.44 inches Height, 0.30 inch Thickness
• Weight: 1 pound, 1 ounce
• One year warranty
• Available Custom Accessories: Case/keyboard, Stylus pen
• Memory Installed: 64 GB main/4 GB processor; Expansion via MicroSDXC: up to 1 TB
• Operating system: Fire OS 8.3.1.9 (based on Android 11)
• Screen: 11 inch IPS LCD, Resolution: 1200 x 2000, 213 ppi, Brightness: 410 nits
• Processor: Octa-core 2x2.2 GHz Cortex A78, 6x2.0 GHz Cortex A55
• GPU: Mali G57 MC2
• 8 MP/1080p autofocus rear camera, 8 MP/1080p front camera
• Two stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos sound processing
• Two microphones
• Built-in Alexa with Show Mode
• Fingerprint reader on power button
• WiFi 6: 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax dual band
• Bluetooth: 5.3 BLE connectivity
• USB-C port for charging and accessory connection
• Power: 15 watt Li-Ion battery, 14 hour usage life, 4.2 hour charging time
• 39 inch USB-A to USB-C power cable, 5.2 volt/1.8 amp/9.0 watt AC charger
• Aluminum case
• Dimensions: 10.2 inches Wide, 6.44 inches Height, 0.30 inch Thickness
• Weight: 1 pound, 1 ounce
• One year warranty
• Available Custom Accessories: Case/keyboard, Stylus pen
The new Fire Max 11 is a real step up from the older 10 inch Fire tablets. The screen is brighter and its 1200 x 2000 resolution is a bit finer. A smaller bezel around the screen allows the bigger screen to exist in a body which is about the same size as the 10 inch tablet (see photo). It has an aluminum case (compared to plastic on the other Fire tablets) and a tough aluminosilicate glass surface. All-in-all, a very solid design and the slate grey finish is very elegant. In addition, Amazon has released two great accessories – a keyboard case and a stylus which both attach to the tablet magnetically and expand its functionality.
The Fire Max 11 is designed to appeal to Amazon Prime subscribers. It is optimized to display the Prime Video streaming content, Amazon Music, Kindle eBooks, Amazon Photos and, of course, Amazon Shopping. Some might complain about this and claim that other tablets have power, but since there are about 150 million Prime members in the US, this tablet is probably much more useful to them because of those Amazon functions. Amazon shows an ad on the lock screen but it is unobtrusive and goes away with a swipe. You can pay a small upcharge to get rid of it, but I can’t image why anyone would, considering how many ads every web browser throws at you each session.
I own a 7th generation Fire 10 HD tablet and I evaluated the Fire Max 11 as a possible upgrade for the average owner. I can state without reservation that if you own an older Fire tablet you will be very pleased if you invest in this wonderful new device. It is faster, more capable in every respect, has a sharper screen and the battery life is better.
I ran a very demanding test of its battery life. I fully charged the battery, set the screen brightness and speaker volume to maximum and then streamed a TV series from Amazon Prime continuously. The battery lasted 9.25 hours before becoming fully depleted. 9.25 hours is enough to cover the longest international flight you are likely to ever take! This is pretty remarkable. By contrast, my older Fire 10 HD lasted only 7.0 hours on the same test. Streaming video puts a real drain on a battery – much more than typical tablet use, so the claimed 14 hour battery life seems realistic for normal use.
The tablet has two stereo speakers and the sound system supports Dolby Atmos. Sound is clear with good frequency range and adequate volume.
The Fire Max 11 has two cameras (front and back), both 8 MP/1080p. No, the rear camera is not equal to a top-of-the-line cellphone’s camera, but it is perfectly adequate for most purposes and I doubt that anyone uses any tablet for serious photography. The more important front camera does a great job for Zoom calls and the twin microphones are excellent. It is as good as any laptop’s webcam.
The octa-core microprocessor is quite powerful, despite its somewhat limited 4 GB of system memory. Response on all apps I tested was very good. I loaded some large spreadsheets and recalculation time was excellent. The Fire Max 11 has 64 GB of unrestricted memory but you can add up to 1 TB of additional memory with a MicroSDXC memory card. These are very inexpensive and give most of the functionality of additional built-in memory.
This tablet supports WiFi 6 (802.11ax) and all previous protocols. It connects quickly and the internal antenna brings in WiFi networks from long distances with rock-solid stability. The Bluetooth protocol is 5.3, the longest-range, fastest and most energy-efficient format.
If security is an issue for you, you can require a password or fingerprint scan to unlock the Fire Max 11. The power button has a fingerprint scanner built in. (I did not test it.)
The Fire Max 11 doubles as a full-function Alexa Show device. When activated you have a very nice bonus feature, playing music, delivering news, responding to Alexa queries, etc. Since the top Show devices cost about half the price of this tablet, you can see the added value the Fire Max 11 represents.
The Fire Max 11 is designed to be paired with Amazon’s superb keyboard case. See my separate review of it, but it is a joy to use, giving almost laptop functionality to the tablet. It snaps on magnetically and draws its required power directly from the tablet. It is well-worth the reasonable price.
Amazon also created a very sophisticated USI stylus (again, see my separate review) which magnetically attaches to the side of the tablet. If you use your tablet for graphics or photo editing it is invaluable and adds a great deal of functionality to the Fire Max 11. The tablet has excellent handwriting recognition/text conversion capability so the stylus may be used quite often.
These two accessories are very persuasive reasons to choose the Fire Max 11 over competing tablets or as a rationale to upgrade from older Fire tablets.
I only have one concern about the Fire Max 11 tablet. Amazon does not give an IPX rating (water and dust protection) for the tablet. I would be careful about exposing the device to water! On the other hand, Amazon touts the Fire Max 11 as being three times more rugged and less subject to damage from mishandling than the most popular competing tablets.
I am delighted to give the beautifully engineered Amazon Fire Max 11 five stars and my full and enthusiastic recommendation! It is attractively priced (about the cost of a Prime subscription for two years) and it has invaluable accessories for everyone who desires a tablet which incorporates productivity tools. It is unmatched as a device to utilize the full Amazon ecosystem for accessing video, music, books and shopping. Buy it (with the keyboard case and the stylus for a complete package) – you won’t regret it!
I would recommend this to a friend!
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The Award-winning Hisense U8 Series Mini-LED TV just got even better. With Peak Brightness 1500 and more than double the local dimming zones as last year, along with Quantum Dot Color, Dolby Vision HDR, and Low Reflecton panel technology, the U8 delivers unmatched brightness, contrast and detail. And, with Dolby Atmos and an upgraded 50w 2.1.2 multi-channel audio system, the U8 creates an immersive cinema experience in your home. In additon, the U8 is compatible with the new Wifi 6E router protocol and includes a NEXTGEN TV ATSC 3.0 tuner making the U8 virtually future-proof. With the Google TV OS and Hands-Free Voice Control, searching for and playing all your favorite content is simple and seamless. Just say ~Hey Google~. The U8 also got more upgrades for the gaming enthusiast including a 144Hz VRR panel, Dolby Vision Gaming and FreeSync Premium Pro for an enhanced gaming experience. And, be2er also just got bigger with the U8H now available in an 85~ screen size.
Customer Rating
5
Beautiful Picture, Feature Loaded, Superb Sound!
on July 10, 2023
Posted by: JimC
This Hisense 75 inch U8K 4K ULED Smart TV is by far the best LED TV I have ever experienced. Its combination of features, sound quality, aesthetics and picture quality is without match.
Hisense is a major consumer electronics and appliance manufacturer. It was founded in Qingdao, China as a radio manufacturer in 1969, then began producing televisions in 1971. It purchased technology and production lines from Matsushita, Hitachi, NEC, Toshiba and others, emerging as Hisense in 1994. Today it is the largest television manufacturer in China and the fifth largest in the world. Its best-known consumer products are sold under the Hisense, Toshiba, Sharp and Hitachi brands. Its television products are very well-regarded for quality and features, on a par with the two major Korean brands and the best-known Japanese brand. The U8K is Hisense’s premium microLED TV.
Consider this superb combination of features:
• Model: Hisense 75” Mini-LED ULED TV (Model 75U8K)
• 75” Quantum Dot UHD Mini-LED IPS-ADS (In-Plane Switching) Display (3840 x 2160 resolution: 8,294,400 pixels per image frame) with wide viewing angle
• 1008 local dimming zones for optimal blacks (over 40,000 to 1 contrast ratio)
• Quantum Dot display with 10 bit color (1,073,741,824 possible colors) and 1500+ nits peak brightness
• MediaTek MT9618 Quad-core Intelligent Video Processor to deliver optimized color, clarity and contrasts, can upscale HD images to near 4K quality
• Google TV (Android TV OS 12) interface
• Supports multiple advanced video systems: HDR10+, HLG (hybrid log-gamma), Dolby Vision IQ, IMAX, Filmmaker mode
• Tru-Motion 480 Hz eliminates motion blur from sports and 48-144 Hz variable refresh rate, coupled with 8 ms response, optimizes gaming experience
• Connected features including Google Home and Alexa
• Five internal speakers deliver 50 watts of 2.1.2 channel Atmos sound (2 10 watt front/left-right speakers, 2 5 watt side/left-right up speakers, 1 20 watt woofer)
• Supports WiSA SoundSend wireless speaker connections
• Automatic audio calibration for the room in which the TV is located
• Backlit Voice Remote can control special features, quick access to all major functions
• Natural language processing delivers intelligent voice recognition for most features and adjustments; supports English, Spanish and French
• Expanded electronic program guide (adds over-the-air channels to cable and internet channels)
• Multiple video mode and sound profile presets, most with automatic settings
• Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney, Hulu, YouTube, Hulu, HBO Max, AppleTV, Tubi, Pluto, Peacock, Showtime, Google Play already installed, 32 GB available for apps and system
• Google Play Content Store with hundreds of additional apps, games, videos
• AirPlay screen-sharing function (iPhone, Windows 11)
• Full web browser
• 2 HDMI 2.1 4K video inputs, 2 HDMI 2.0 HD video inputs (HDMI 3 is also eARC)
• 2 USB ports, 3.0 and 2.0
• Component (R/G/B) video input
• Optical digital audio output
• Wireless WiFi 6E LAN 802.11AX 2.4/5G/6G
• Gigabit Ethernet LAN
• Bluetooth 5.2 (both inbound from external sources and outbound to headphones)
• ATSC 3.0 coax input and digital tuner for over-the-air 4K channel reception
• Beautiful appearance with a very slim bezel (0.4”)
• 600 mm x 400 mm VESA mount holes
• Semi-gloss screen to reduce reflections
• 65.9” wide x 38.1” tall x 3.0” deep (without 2.6” tall x 14.5” deep stand)
• Two stand positions: 39.7” wide or 50.4” wide
• Weight: 79.4 pounds, 81.4 pounds with stand
• Power consumption (380 watts in use, 0.5 watt in standby mode)
• 2 year parts and labor warranty
• 75” Quantum Dot UHD Mini-LED IPS-ADS (In-Plane Switching) Display (3840 x 2160 resolution: 8,294,400 pixels per image frame) with wide viewing angle
• 1008 local dimming zones for optimal blacks (over 40,000 to 1 contrast ratio)
• Quantum Dot display with 10 bit color (1,073,741,824 possible colors) and 1500+ nits peak brightness
• MediaTek MT9618 Quad-core Intelligent Video Processor to deliver optimized color, clarity and contrasts, can upscale HD images to near 4K quality
• Google TV (Android TV OS 12) interface
• Supports multiple advanced video systems: HDR10+, HLG (hybrid log-gamma), Dolby Vision IQ, IMAX, Filmmaker mode
• Tru-Motion 480 Hz eliminates motion blur from sports and 48-144 Hz variable refresh rate, coupled with 8 ms response, optimizes gaming experience
• Connected features including Google Home and Alexa
• Five internal speakers deliver 50 watts of 2.1.2 channel Atmos sound (2 10 watt front/left-right speakers, 2 5 watt side/left-right up speakers, 1 20 watt woofer)
• Supports WiSA SoundSend wireless speaker connections
• Automatic audio calibration for the room in which the TV is located
• Backlit Voice Remote can control special features, quick access to all major functions
• Natural language processing delivers intelligent voice recognition for most features and adjustments; supports English, Spanish and French
• Expanded electronic program guide (adds over-the-air channels to cable and internet channels)
• Multiple video mode and sound profile presets, most with automatic settings
• Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney, Hulu, YouTube, Hulu, HBO Max, AppleTV, Tubi, Pluto, Peacock, Showtime, Google Play already installed, 32 GB available for apps and system
• Google Play Content Store with hundreds of additional apps, games, videos
• AirPlay screen-sharing function (iPhone, Windows 11)
• Full web browser
• 2 HDMI 2.1 4K video inputs, 2 HDMI 2.0 HD video inputs (HDMI 3 is also eARC)
• 2 USB ports, 3.0 and 2.0
• Component (R/G/B) video input
• Optical digital audio output
• Wireless WiFi 6E LAN 802.11AX 2.4/5G/6G
• Gigabit Ethernet LAN
• Bluetooth 5.2 (both inbound from external sources and outbound to headphones)
• ATSC 3.0 coax input and digital tuner for over-the-air 4K channel reception
• Beautiful appearance with a very slim bezel (0.4”)
• 600 mm x 400 mm VESA mount holes
• Semi-gloss screen to reduce reflections
• 65.9” wide x 38.1” tall x 3.0” deep (without 2.6” tall x 14.5” deep stand)
• Two stand positions: 39.7” wide or 50.4” wide
• Weight: 79.4 pounds, 81.4 pounds with stand
• Power consumption (380 watts in use, 0.5 watt in standby mode)
• 2 year parts and labor warranty
When you invest in a great TV, no matter the brand, you should look at three elements – the beauty of the visual delivery system, the quality of the sound produced and the range and substance of the other features included. Consider each of these:
It is easy to fall in love with the video quality of this TV. The 4K Quantum Dot display with 10 bit color, and 1,008 local dimming zones, all managed by the powerful MediaTek MT9618 Quad-core Intelligent Video Processor delivers an absolutely stunning image, easily the best I have ever seen from a non-OLED TV. Since comparable-sized OLED screens are twice the price of this TV, there is just no other set in its price range which can match it. There are many preset video modes to choose from (e.g., vivid, standard, theater, sports, gaming, Filmmaker) or calibrate the picture yourself with an incredible degree of precision. You will be absolutely delighted with the video images created by this magnificent TV.
To meet the HDR 10 (High Dynamic Range) and Dolby Vision IQ standards the display has to attain both a very high brightness level and a very dark black level coupled with a vast range of colors presented with very subtle shading between the millions of pixels on the screen. The 1,008 local dimming zones give deep blacks and the 10 bit color with the multiple HDR and Dolby Vision systems supported create a very wide range of colors and brightness levels. It creates an effective 480 frame per second refresh rate (Tru-Motion 480) with each of the 8.3 million pixels set to the exact color/brightness level required to achieve the truest image. This also includes upscaling HD content (which has only 2 million pixels in the image) by interpolating the correct color and brightness to the full 8.3 million pixels of the 4K display. Most TV produce 250-350 nits of light output, but this Hisense has a specified 1500 nits brightness level which actually understates the actual output. This is a very bright TV! This amazing combination of technologies creates an unmatched picture quality.
How good is the sound? Most speakers for even the best televisions are just not comparable to the display, yet much of the immersive experience of movies or sporting events comes from rich sound rolling over and around you. This usually requires adding a sound bar to your TV to replace those pitiful little speakers typically built in. However, this Hisense has the best sound system I have ever heard on any set. I have a very nice 7.1.4 Atmos sound bar which I connected to the HDMI eARC output and it generated great sound. But the Hisense unaided sound is so good that I watched an entire action movie with the sound bar turned off and it seemed there was very little drop off in audio quality. This is due to the 2.1.2 channel Dolby Atmos sound system. Dolby Atmos is the most advanced form of surround sound system. It delivers sound as “objects” which are placed in three dimensional space rather than in specific channels to immerse listeners in the sound. The Hisense U8K includes an Atmos processor to drive two built-in 10 watt full-range left/right speakers mounted at the bottom edge, a 20 watt woofer mounted in the center of the back of the TV and two 5 watt side/up speakers mounted on the left and right back of the TV. You can also choose to add preset sound modes (e.g., standard, theater, sports, clear voice, music) or make your own sound adjustments. If you use this TV in a room where a supplemental audio system would not fit in, the built-in sound system will not disappoint you.
Finally, the third element of evaluating is the set of added features available. Here you will find that this TV is like one of those Russian nesting doll sets – every time you open up a feature your find another bonus inside!
• All extra features are controlled by the excellent Google TV operating system (Android 12 OS).
• The lighted remote gives direct access to all of the most popular streaming services (Netflix, Amazon Prime, YouTube, Disney+, Tubi and “Apps” (which pulls up a menu of all installed streaming services.) It also accepts voice commands and provides a menu button for settings.
• The Google Play Content Store contains hundreds of additional apps and games which can be downloaded. The storage capacity for the operating system and apps is a generous 32 GB.
• The Google TV Live feature is amazing. It is an integrated program guide of internet program sources and over-the-air channels. It also includes Google Home. Just ask it any question and it will respond to you!
• Gamers will be thrilled by the dedicated Game Bar menu options and the superb color and 48-144 Hz variable refresh rate image processing capability of the TV.
• The over-the-air tuner is the next generation ATSC 3.0 which can receive 4K broadcasts. These will soon be common. It is very easy to receive digital broadcasts with this fine tuner and you will be amazed by their quality.
• A Device Assistant button in the Apps menu gives access to a fine array of built-in utilities including a hardware check, storage cleaner and a system optimizer.
• A full-featured web browser is easy to navigate, thanks to the voice remote and the ability to connect a standard keyboard and mouse via the superb Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity
• Nearly all menu options include explanations of their function.
• Air Play screen sharing from a PC or phone is supported and it is effortless.
• WiFi is the latest 6E standard (LAN 802.11AX 2.4/5G/6G). An Ethernet port is also available.
• “Ambient Mode” gives rotating artwork or personal photos plus time/temperature on screen.
• I mounted the TV on a wall bracket but the substantial feet for the stand can be attached in two positions, providing a gap of 38.9” or 49.3” between them.
• The lighted remote gives direct access to all of the most popular streaming services (Netflix, Amazon Prime, YouTube, Disney+, Tubi and “Apps” (which pulls up a menu of all installed streaming services.) It also accepts voice commands and provides a menu button for settings.
• The Google Play Content Store contains hundreds of additional apps and games which can be downloaded. The storage capacity for the operating system and apps is a generous 32 GB.
• The Google TV Live feature is amazing. It is an integrated program guide of internet program sources and over-the-air channels. It also includes Google Home. Just ask it any question and it will respond to you!
• Gamers will be thrilled by the dedicated Game Bar menu options and the superb color and 48-144 Hz variable refresh rate image processing capability of the TV.
• The over-the-air tuner is the next generation ATSC 3.0 which can receive 4K broadcasts. These will soon be common. It is very easy to receive digital broadcasts with this fine tuner and you will be amazed by their quality.
• A Device Assistant button in the Apps menu gives access to a fine array of built-in utilities including a hardware check, storage cleaner and a system optimizer.
• A full-featured web browser is easy to navigate, thanks to the voice remote and the ability to connect a standard keyboard and mouse via the superb Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity
• Nearly all menu options include explanations of their function.
• Air Play screen sharing from a PC or phone is supported and it is effortless.
• WiFi is the latest 6E standard (LAN 802.11AX 2.4/5G/6G). An Ethernet port is also available.
• “Ambient Mode” gives rotating artwork or personal photos plus time/temperature on screen.
• I mounted the TV on a wall bracket but the substantial feet for the stand can be attached in two positions, providing a gap of 38.9” or 49.3” between them.
Small quibbles: If you connect a sound bar via HDMI eARC the TV’s great internal speakers are turned off. A side-by-side video display option would be nice (e.g., over-the-air tuner + cable input so that you can watch two events simultaneously.)
Evaluation - the Hisense 75” U8K is an absolutely superb premium television which outperforms every other set in its price range. It is an excellent choice for those who demand the best in every aspect of their life. It has earned a full five stars and my most enthusiastic endorsement!
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Philips Norelco Shaver 9500 delivers superior closeness and personalized skin comfort with SenseIQ technology. Designed to prevent skin irritation, the 9500 features Pressure Guard Sensor which guides you to the the right pressure as you shave.
Does this include a charging stand? It seems not. If not, can I buy a charging stand for this, separately?
The QuickClean pod doubles as a charging stand. You just attach the charging cord to the shaver while it is resting in the QuickClean pod.
4 years, 6 months ago
by
JimC
Philips Norelco Shaver 9500 delivers superior closeness and personalized skin comfort with SenseIQ technology. Designed to prevent skin irritation, the 9500 features Pressure Guard Sensor which guides you to the the right pressure as you shave.
Is this electric razor (the S9500) made in the Netherlands? I know that the higher end Phillips/Norelco models are usually manufactured in the Netherlands.
Yes, the shaver is both designed in the Netherlands and manufactured there.
4 years, 6 months ago
by
JimC
Explore a new world of personalized home theater audio. The SRS-NS7 Wireless Neckband Speaker uses Sony~s 360 Spatial Sound Personalizer technology to envelop you in the rich audio of your favorite shows and movies, while being unobtrusive to others in your home.
Can you hook the transmitter up to an AVR? If you can, will you lose any of the features? I have a surround sound system, but late at night I would want to use the NS7 so as not to disturb the family.
I have a 7.1.4 sound bar system that is connected to my TV through the HDMI Arc port. I added the SRS-NS7 transmitter to my TV by connecting it to the optical digital audio output and powered the transmitter at the USB port of the TV. This provides a signal to the neckband speaker which is independent of the sound bar. I can use the sound bar, the neckbad speaker or both together. If I want to minimize sound for others I just mute the sound bar and listen to just the neckband speaker. It works fine that way but even better when I listen to it and the sound bar as the same time.
4 years, 7 months ago
by
JimC
From America's most trusted printer brand~, the HP Smart Tank 7301 is a smart, connected and refillable tank printer that makes printing seamless for your home and small business with its high capacity, wireless connectivity and Ethernet networking. Create everyday color documents at a low cost with 3 years of Original HP Ink included in the box~. It's AI-enabled~ to intuitively adapt to your workflow, with wireless and security features that keep your multifunction printer up to date and secure.
Can this printer print legal sized paper 8.5 x 14
Yes, the paper tray can be easily extended to accommodate 8.5 x 14 legal paper.
The auto document feeder can also handle legal paper and there is a little support that flips up to facilitate feeding long paper.
The auto document feeder can also handle legal paper and there is a little support that flips up to facilitate feeding long paper.
4 years, 7 months ago
by
JimC
Your busy office needs a printer that~s fast, affordable, easy to use, and has great features. That~s why we developed the EcoTank ET-3850 ~ an innovative cartridge-free solution that uses high-capacity, easily refillable ink tanks. So you~ll worry less about running out of ink, and save a lot on replacement ink (1). The ET-3850 features an auto document feeder, fast printing with outstanding print quality, productive paper handling, a high-resolution flatbed scanner, and a large color display ~ making it the perfect printer for your home office.
What is the quality of the photos being printed with this machine? Will any Epson photo paper work or is there unique photo paper for this ink type?
The photo printing quality is excellent - not quite as good as a dedicated photo printer, but very close.
Attached is a sample that I printed.
Attached is a sample that I printed.
4 years, 8 months ago
by
JimC
Sit back, relax and let the Samsung Jet Mop automatically clean your floors. Samsung~s Jet Mop automatically cleans all type of floors, like tile, vinyl, laminate or hardwood. This robotic mop features dual spinning fiber pads that easily and quickly remove dust and dirt. Now, you can simply take it easy as the intelligent Jet Mop does the hard work for you.
Does this unit require water(specific) or cleaner(special brand)? Example: deionized, distilled, tap, boiled, spring. Example: fabuloso, pledge, mop and glow, bleach/water, brand compatible.
No, just tap water is fine for the water tanks. I understand that you could also use a non-streaking floor cleaner but I haven't tried that yet.
5 years, 6 months ago
by
JimC
Experience versatile cooking with the bella PRO 12.6-qt. Digital Air Fryer Oven. Air Fry, Dehydrate, Rotisserie, Grill, Roast, Bake, Broil, and Reheat your favorite meals with consistent results every time. The extra-large capacity fits a 10~ pizza, 2.2 lbs. of french fries, 4 slices of bread, and a 4 lb. chicken. The powerful 1500 watt heating system uses High Performance Circular Heat Technology to circulate heat for fast, crispy, and evenly cooked results every time. 10 convenient preset menu options, adjustable temperature range from 90~F to 400~F and 24 hour auto shutoff timer with audible tone. Easy cleanup with the dishwasher safe removable accessories.
Can you buy an air fryer basket since the included racks to not have sides? What are the dimensions of the racks?
The interior dimension of the oven is about 10.5 inches wide, 10 inches deep (including rear wall curve), 6.8 inches tall
A basket could probably be placed inside but no such basket is included.
Here are the trays provided:
• Two 10.5 inch x 9.2 inch coated metal slotted cooking trays (8.3 inch x 7.3 inch flat surface)
• 10 inch diameter coated metal pan (9.2 inch interior diameter)
• 10.5 inch x 9.2 inch coated metal drip tray (8.3 inch x 7.3 inch flat surface)
A basket could probably be placed inside but no such basket is included.
Here are the trays provided:
• Two 10.5 inch x 9.2 inch coated metal slotted cooking trays (8.3 inch x 7.3 inch flat surface)
• 10 inch diameter coated metal pan (9.2 inch interior diameter)
• 10.5 inch x 9.2 inch coated metal drip tray (8.3 inch x 7.3 inch flat surface)
5 years, 7 months ago
by
JimC
Experience versatile cooking with the bella PRO 12.6-qt. Digital Air Fryer Oven. Air Fry, Dehydrate, Rotisserie, Grill, Roast, Bake, Broil, and Reheat your favorite meals with consistent results every time. The extra-large capacity fits a 10~ pizza, 2.2 lbs. of french fries, 4 slices of bread, and a 4 lb. chicken. The powerful 1500 watt heating system uses High Performance Circular Heat Technology to circulate heat for fast, crispy, and evenly cooked results every time. 10 convenient preset menu options, adjustable temperature range from 90~F to 400~F and 24 hour auto shutoff timer with audible tone. Easy cleanup with the dishwasher safe removable accessories.
What are the product dimensions, please? The specification doesn't include them (and should).
• Exterior dimensions: 13 inches wide, 14 inches deep (including cord wrap), 14.5 inches tall
• Interior dimensions: 10.5 inches wide, 10 inches deep (including rear wall curve), 6.8 inches tall
• Interior dimensions: 10.5 inches wide, 10 inches deep (including rear wall curve), 6.8 inches tall
5 years, 7 months ago
by
JimC
Experience versatile cooking with the bella PRO 12.6-qt. Digital Air Fryer Oven. Air Fry, Dehydrate, Rotisserie, Grill, Roast, Bake, Broil, and Reheat your favorite meals with consistent results every time. The extra-large capacity fits a 10~ pizza, 2.2 lbs. of french fries, 4 slices of bread, and a 4 lb. chicken. The powerful 1500 watt heating system uses High Performance Circular Heat Technology to circulate heat for fast, crispy, and evenly cooked results every time. 10 convenient preset menu options, adjustable temperature range from 90~F to 400~F and 24 hour auto shutoff timer with audible tone. Easy cleanup with the dishwasher safe removable accessories.
What size pizza can it fit?
This is definitely not a pizza oven! Most frozen pizzas are 11 inches in diameter and "rising crust" pizzas are about 12 inches in diameter. The included "pizza pan" is only 9.2 inches interior diameter. You cannot use this air fryer to bake standard frozen pizzas.
5 years, 7 months ago
by
JimC
Clean hard floors and rugs with this BISSEL CrossWave Cordless Max multisurface wet/dry vacuum. The multisurface design vacuums and washes floors simultaneously, and the powerful battery offers up to 30 minutes of use per charge. This BISSEL CrossWave Cordless Max multisurface wet/dry vacuum includes a docking station that charges the battery and automatically cleans out dirt and debris.
How is this wet/dry vacumm with long dog hair? Does it get caught in that tiny filter or does it filter through to the dirty water ?. I have to vacumm balls of hair everyday.
I have a Yorkie who has very long hair. The Crosswave Cordless does a great job of picking up any hair on the ground and it is trapped by the strainer or loosely wrapped around the roller brush. I have had no problem cleaning with this great unit.
6 years, 6 months ago
by
JimC