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- First reviewOctober 30, 2016
- Last reviewApril 28, 2026
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- First answerDecember 4, 2016
- Last answerNovember 16, 2021
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Twinkly Dots are designed with an innovative flat, matte head to reach impressive brightness levels and perfect color tones, while offering the versatility of classic LED light strings with a refined look and feel of premium decorative lighting. The light string measures 33 feet in length with 200 RGB LED lights. Getting started with Twinkly Dots is super easy, a quick and intuitive setup process configures your device in a matter of seconds. The Twinkly ecosystem uses a Bluetooth and Wi-Fi controller with a state-of-the-art smartphone application, bringing new levels of lighting design and creativity to customize your connected home. Like all Twinkly products, every single LED light can be controlled individually, allowing you to create and reproduce unique effects, gradients, and color animations. Twinkly Dots can be grouped together with other Twinkly devices to create larger, synchronized light installations and combined with Twinkly Music (sold separately), to offer a fully customizable light show for all occasions.
Customer Rating
5
Fun, Beautiful and Sophisticated!
on July 28, 2022
Posted by: JimC
Twinkly Dots is a very sophisticated programmable multi-color LED lighting system which is controllable by a mobile app and compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple HomeKit. A wide variety of pre-programmed effects are available on the app or you can create your own complex lighting patterns. The set can be wirelessly connected to other Twinkly systems to extend the effects across a vast area.
The Twinkly product line is designed by LEDWorks, an Italian technology company founded in 2016 and based in Milan, Italy. Twinkly Dots are one of many inter-operable Twinkly home products, which include Strings, Cluster, Icicle, Curtain, Festoon, Flex, Line and Music.
Here are the relevant features and specifications:
• Twinkly Generation II Dots (Model TWD200STP-TUS)
• 200 high quality 7 mm RGB LED lights
• LED spacing: 5 cm/1.96 inch
• Total length: 10 m/32.8 feet
• Generation II controller has dual core chip for faster processing and larger memory
• Power adapter connects to Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit
• Connection through Home WiFi network, Direct WiFi mode or Bluetooth
• IP 44 rated: Resistant to water splashed from every direction
• Operating temperature tolerance: 5 degrees to 104 degrees Fahrenheit
• Each LED can accurately display 16 million colors
• Twinkly app allows pre-programmed effects or individual customization
• Timer and dimmer controls within the app
• Up to 4,000 lights can be combined/controlled within the Twinkly app
• Synchronization with music is possible with the Music component
• Includes 50 adhesive pads
• One year parts and labor warranty
• 200 high quality 7 mm RGB LED lights
• LED spacing: 5 cm/1.96 inch
• Total length: 10 m/32.8 feet
• Generation II controller has dual core chip for faster processing and larger memory
• Power adapter connects to Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit
• Connection through Home WiFi network, Direct WiFi mode or Bluetooth
• IP 44 rated: Resistant to water splashed from every direction
• Operating temperature tolerance: 5 degrees to 104 degrees Fahrenheit
• Each LED can accurately display 16 million colors
• Twinkly app allows pre-programmed effects or individual customization
• Timer and dimmer controls within the app
• Up to 4,000 lights can be combined/controlled within the Twinkly app
• Synchronization with music is possible with the Music component
• Includes 50 adhesive pads
• One year parts and labor warranty
When you open the box and unpack the lights you will be impressed by the solid feel and quality of construction. The small round LED lights are connected with a top quality and flexible wire which has multiple filaments to manage the colors and effects to each LED. The power connection plug is adjustable to allow horizontal or vertical placement. The controller is located between the two strings of 100 lights. This is an unfortunate design (as other reviewers have noted) because it limits flexibility in placing the lights.
After unwrapping the light strings from their Velcro bindings you can lay out the lights by wrapping them around objects, placing them on plants, Christmas trees, video screens, counters, furniture, windows, etc. in whatever pattern you like. The package includes 50 adhesive pads for attaching the lights to surfaces. Frankly, this is pretty stingy. There should be 200 adhesive pads to allow a permanent design structure for the lights! But you can use double-sided adhesive tape to accomplish what the pads do, so it is really more of an annoyance than a major problem.
Next, download the Twinkly app and create an account. The app will guide you through the process of connecting to the light string (usually by joining your home WiFi network) and will download a firmware update. Once that is done the app will ask you to “map” the lights by using your phone’s camera. This mapping process enables the app to apply sophisticated patterns in various colors to your lights.
The first time you activate the lights you will be very impressed by the beautiful colors and varying brightness levels which they produce. The color purity is outstanding and reflects the very high quality of the LEDs used. Red color purity is >95%, blue color purity is >90% and green color purity is >65%. Each color can have one of 256 levels and the combination of three primary colors at those various levels generates 16,777,216 individual colors at each LED. The app-managed controller has a dual core processor with substantial RAM which can store very complex patterns and color combinations and activate them quickly.
The Twinkly app contains many pre-programmed patterns and colors for the lights. It also includes timers to allow you set an on time and an off time for your lights. You can add multiple Twinkly products (up to 4,000 lights) and control all as a single light system. And you can use your Alexa or Google Assistant to activate the entire system! Once you have become familiar with the pre-programmed designs you can design your own patterns and effects in the app (which includes a free-form drawing tool!)
It takes a bit of experimenting to really understand the capabilities of the Twinkly system but once you have played with it a bit you start to rationalize purchasing more systems to give you more flexibility and to add to your design. The beauty of the lights and the designs cannot be over-emphasized.
The bottom line on this amazing and complex lighting system is that it makes incredible holiday lighting designs possible, but year-round you can achieve really creative effects by adding dramatic décor accents to your home. I debated giving it just four stars because of the poor controller placement between the two 100 light strings and the lack of 200 adhesive pads, but the overall quality and beauty is so remarkable that it really does deserve five stars in spite of those flaws. Highly recommended!
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+32points
32of 32voted this as helpful.
Bring the party with you and spread sound with the XE200 Wireless speaker. A line shaped diffuser and X-balanced speakers provide a wide sound stage, with powerful bass and richer sound. Pair with IP67 Waterproof, dustproof and shockproof design, this speaker is made for even the strongest elements.
Customer Rating
5
Improved Compact Powerhouse with Great Sound!
on July 24, 2022
Posted by: JimC
The Sony XE200 wireless portable Bluetooth speaker is a major update to Sony’s line of compact Bluetooth speakers. It is a surprisingly powerful unit with very nice sound quality and some great bonus features. Compared to the alternatives available it is one of the best values on the market.
This year Sony once again upgraded its popular line of wireless Bluetooth speakers with a family of three new units: XE200, XE300 and XG300. These have some similar features (Line Shape Diffuser, Live Sound mode, water and dust proof case, inter-speaker connectivity, lighting effects) but differ in speaker size, battery life and price. The largest (XG300) is 12.6 inches long, weighs 6.1 pounds and has two 60 x 70 mm speakers plus two tweeters. The midsize (XE300) is 9.4 inches long, weighs 2.1 pounds and has two 49 x 71 mm speakers. The smallest (XE200) is 8.2 inches long, weighs 1.7 pounds and has two 42 x 51 mm speakers. The XG300 costs about 1.75 times the XE300 and the XE200 costs about 65% the XE300’s price. There are advantages to each but this review will concentrate on the XE200.
Sony is one of the largest consumer electronic companies in the world. It began in 1946 as an electronics shop but soon began producing its own products, starting with tape recorders and transistor radios in the mid-1950s. Sony built a reputation for quality and introduced many innovations in portable audio, including the Walkman in 1979, the CD disc in 1983, flash memory for audio and video in 1998 and the Blu-ray HD disc in 2000. Its consumer audio products including stereo component systems, speakers and headphones are very well-regarded for quality and features.
Here is a summary of the key features:
• Sony Wireless Line Shape Diffuser Speaker – Model SRS-XE200
• X-Balanced Line Shape Diffuser distributes sound evenly and across a wider area
• Bluetooth Version 5.2 supports SBC/AAC/LDAC codecs, multi-point connections
• Two 42 x 51 mm speakers plus two passive radiators generate deep bass notes
• Frequency response: 100 – 10,000 Hz, less than 1% total harmonic distortion
• Built-in microphone with echo-cancelling technology for phone conversations
• Voice guidance for primary functions (Bluetooth connection, battery, phone calls)
• Power, Bluetooth access, Volume, MIcrophone and Stamina (battery saver) controls on speaker
• Sony Music Center app provides additional controls
• Water-proof, dust-proof (IPX67)
• Shock-resistant up to four feet drop on plywood
• Easy-clean silicon and silicon-infused fabric surfaces
• Up to 16 hours of listening time on full charge (which requires 4 hours)
• 70 minutes of playing time from 10 minute quick charge
• USB-C power connection port behind waterproof seal
• Acceptable operating temperature range: 41 – 95 degrees F
• Dimensions: 8.2 inch height, 3.7 inch depth, 3.5 inch width; Weight: 1.7 pounds
• Includes USB-C cable, carrying strap, quick start guide, full instructions
• One year warranty on parts and labor
• X-Balanced Line Shape Diffuser distributes sound evenly and across a wider area
• Bluetooth Version 5.2 supports SBC/AAC/LDAC codecs, multi-point connections
• Two 42 x 51 mm speakers plus two passive radiators generate deep bass notes
• Frequency response: 100 – 10,000 Hz, less than 1% total harmonic distortion
• Built-in microphone with echo-cancelling technology for phone conversations
• Voice guidance for primary functions (Bluetooth connection, battery, phone calls)
• Power, Bluetooth access, Volume, MIcrophone and Stamina (battery saver) controls on speaker
• Sony Music Center app provides additional controls
• Water-proof, dust-proof (IPX67)
• Shock-resistant up to four feet drop on plywood
• Easy-clean silicon and silicon-infused fabric surfaces
• Up to 16 hours of listening time on full charge (which requires 4 hours)
• 70 minutes of playing time from 10 minute quick charge
• USB-C power connection port behind waterproof seal
• Acceptable operating temperature range: 41 – 95 degrees F
• Dimensions: 8.2 inch height, 3.7 inch depth, 3.5 inch width; Weight: 1.7 pounds
• Includes USB-C cable, carrying strap, quick start guide, full instructions
• One year warranty on parts and labor
After extensive testing of the Sony XE200 speaker in a wide variety of applications my conclusion is that this very compact unit has a superb combination of features, power and sound quality which surpass the vast majority of its competitors in its price range.
The XE200 differs in a few respects from the older XB generation of Bluetooth speakers. The most prominent change is the vertical (vs. horizontal) orientation. Sony is utilizing a new technology – a line shape diffuser with X-balanced speakers. It is slightly larger and the exterior has a fabric grill surface over the front speaker area. The speaker has a pentagonal shape which reflects the X-balanced speakers inside. The speaker is designed to be placed in a vertical position with the line shape diffuser projecting sound out in a semi-circle from the front of the speaker. You can switch the speaker from mono mode to stereo mode using the Sony Music Center app, if you want to use it in a horizontal position. But if you do so, the stereo separation isn’t that pronounced and you will lose some of the benefits of the line diffuser.
The sound produced by this speaker is distortion-free and steady at both low and very high volumes. The twin speakers are larger than their predecessors and use the passive radiators to produce substantial bass power. Within the Music Center app are equalizer controls for bass, mid-range and treble enhancement. However, the default Sony settings really seemed to produce the best result for most music, especially vocals, jazz and rock. You will not get studio reference sound from this compact speaker (the lack of clarity in its highs notes confirms its stated 100 – 10,000 Hz speaker range) but it is clearly on a par with other compact portable Bluetooth speakers at its price point.
What you will get is that expected Sony quality and reliability, plus nice bonus features like durability, long battery life, strong bass response and the ability to connect to other Sony speakers.
The 5.2 Bluetooth connection process was effortless and solid from every device I tried (phone, tablet, laptop). The connection was very stable up to about 45 feet from my music source.
One nice bonus feature is the ability to connect a chain of multiple Sony speakers which can extend your music throughout a large home or provide multiple sound sources in the same room. If you add a second XE200 you can use the Music Center to define them as left and right stereo outputs and greatly enhance the effective sound stage.
Another use for the speaker is to create a high quality speaker phone by linking it to your phone – much better sound than using your phone’s tiny speakers for conversations. The built-in microphone was very effective for this purpose and has echo-cancelling capability to improve the audio quality.
You can feel very comfortable taking this sturdy speaker to the beach or any outdoor activity. It has a rating of IXP67 which means that it is completely dustproof and waterproof for up to 30 minutes in three feet of water. It has also been designed to resist damage from drops of up to 4 feet. The carrying strap is a nice length for hooking it onto your bike, backpack or just looping it over your arm.
I mentioned that this speaker is one of a set of three new speakers from Sony. Which one should you buy? Well, if you are willing to spend the price of the XE300, consider buying two of these XE200 speakers instead, for just slightly more. You will then have a much richer auditory environment by placing two of these speakers in your room or in your outdoor venue than you would have from a single XE300. The sound quality will be about the same but having a pair of XE200 speakers gives you many more options.
The bottom line on this sturdy, waterproof speaker is that is provides excellent sound quality from a very compact body at a very affordable price. I endorse it without reservation!
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+31points
32of 33voted this as helpful.
BodyGuardz Carve combines eye-catching aesthetics with practical function. The sculpted edge provides no-slip grip and is made of bioplastic. The easy-press buttons are not only user friendly, but also eco-friendly. They are made with Tritan Renew~, a 50% certified recycled content. Carve also includes antimicrobial product protection, and a raised bumper to protect both the camera and screen. Carve accentuates the design of your iPhone while offering dynamic drop protection. CCF0P-APH67-9HG
Customer Rating
5
Protects Your iPhone and Your Health!
on June 29, 2022
Posted by: JimC
The BodyGuardz Carve Classic Clear iPhone 13 Pro Max Case provides great security and protection for your treasured, but somewhat fragile, iPhone. With iPhones now costing $1,000+ it is very prudent to add a protective barrier around your phone to minimize the chance of damage when you inevitably drop it. But beyond drop protection for the phone, this case helps to protect your health by fighting the buildup of harmful microbes on your phone.
BodyGuardz was founded in 2002 in Draper, Utah, producing screen protectors. It subsequently expanded to offer a wide variety of protective products. Its line of iPhone cases are noted for thinness, protective qualities and outstanding durability.
Here are the key features of this great case:
• BodyGuardz Carve Classic iPhone 13 Pro Max case (CCF0P-APH67-9HG)
• 8 foot drop protection proven in scientific tests
• Bioplastic outer shell provides unbreakable protective perimeter
• Buttons made from 50% certified recycled content
• Inner ridged lining gives additional shock protection
• Slightly raised bezel around screen helps to protect front glass
• Raised bumper on back protects the camera lenses
• Pureguard anti-microbial protection to reduce microbe buildup by 99%
• Anti-slip grip ridges on sides to reduce risk of dropping
• Designed to support Qi wireless charging
• Material will not interfere with phone reception
• Form fitting: 6.5 x 3.2 x 0.4 inches
• Lightweight: 1.0 ounces
• Advantage Limited Lifetime Warranty
• 8 foot drop protection proven in scientific tests
• Bioplastic outer shell provides unbreakable protective perimeter
• Buttons made from 50% certified recycled content
• Inner ridged lining gives additional shock protection
• Slightly raised bezel around screen helps to protect front glass
• Raised bumper on back protects the camera lenses
• Pureguard anti-microbial protection to reduce microbe buildup by 99%
• Anti-slip grip ridges on sides to reduce risk of dropping
• Designed to support Qi wireless charging
• Material will not interfere with phone reception
• Form fitting: 6.5 x 3.2 x 0.4 inches
• Lightweight: 1.0 ounces
• Advantage Limited Lifetime Warranty
Installation is very easy. The case snaps around the iPhone 13 Pro Max with very little effort. Once on, it is very secure and will not easily come off. The case is surprisingly thin and does not add significantly to the bulk of the iPhone 13 Pro Max. The actual dimensions of the iPhone are just 0.2 inches smaller than the case in length and width. The full front surface of the screen is still accessible after the case has been installed. The appearance is very clean and a small BodyGardz logo is very subtly etched at the bottom of the back of the case.
The case is composed of 100% bioplastic. It is also UV-resistant to combat yellowing and should retain its clarity for many years.
I had no issues with charging my phone wirelessly after installing the case. The quality of cellular, WiFi and Bluetooth receptions are unaffected by the case.
While the large screens of the bigger iPhones (like the Pro Max) are a pleasure to use, they are also much more likely to pop out of your hand if not carefully held. This BodyGuardz Carve case has been scientifically tested to protect your iPhone from damage even after repeated eight foot drops. The case has a special ridged side shell which will compress upon impact to absorb and disperse shock to safeguard the phone.
To me, the biggest selling feature of the BodyGuardz Carve case is its PureGuard anti-microbial protection. PureGuard is a special material which permanently protects against microbes such as bacteria, mold, fungi and even viruses. This protection reduces microbial buildup by 99%. Why is this important? Numerous studies have shown that most phones harbor ten times the amount of microbes found on the typical toilet seat! (By the way, those same studies also state that TV remote controls also have similar amounts of nasty microbes!)
Since you hold your phone near your mouth and handle it constantly it can be a serious source of potential infections. This PureGuard case can reduce that risk substantially, thereby protecting your health as it protects the phone it encases.
I am delighted to give this great iPhone case a strong recommendation! Buy it and slip your precious iPhone 13 Pro Max into it, then rest easy knowing that you are not only protecting it, but also safeguarding your own health!
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+20points
20of 20voted this as helpful.
If you want a powerful clean in half the time, Tineco~s Floor One S3 Extreme is the perfect tool. With this floor washer, you can mop and vacuum in one quick sweep. Featuring exclusive iLoop technology, the Tineco Floor One S3 Extreme will automatically adjust water flow, brush roller speed, and suction based on the clean-up required. This translates to a better, deeper clean with less battery used. Consider it your intelligent assistant, helping you tackle any mess in a short amount of time. This wet/dry vacuum is designed to give you a clean and easy clean each time . A dual-tank system means no more pushing dirty water across your floors. Instead, the floor washer uses fresh water to clean your floors, powerfully sucking up dirty water and storing it safely in a separate tank. And, when you want to vacuum up a mess without water, simply switch to the featured suction-only mode. The cordless design makes it easy for you to quickly clean up any room in your home without cumbersome cords. Say hello to a fresh and clean home with the powerful cleaning action of Tineco Floor One S3 Extreme.
Customer Rating
5
Cordless Agility, Powerful, Easy to Maintain!
on June 7, 2022
Posted by: JimC
The Tineco Floor One S3 Extreme cordless vacuum and floor washer is a remarkably versatile, attractive and lightweight device which effortlessly allows you to clean and remove unpleasant odors from your floors, leaving them spotless and streak-free.
Tineco is an innovative Chinese manufacturing company founded in 1998. It focuses on adding intelligent technology to consumer products. It introduced a smart vacuum cleaner in 2019 and a smart hair dryer in 2020. Its motto is “Live Easy, Enjoy Life.” The Floor One S3 Extreme multi-surface floor washer is the company’s newest entry for home use.
What can it do? Vacuum and refreshes carpets, vacuum and mop hard floors, clean up all pet hair and “accidents” and serve as a general purpose light-duty wet/dry vacuum! It has a very well-engineered, light-weight body that is very easy to maintain. If you hate dragging out a heavy floor cleaning machine or finding a way to shove it back into a crowded closet, this multi-purpose cleaner will solve that problem too. It makes floor maintenance an easy task, not a chore, and you can live in a healthier, cleaner environment by using it frequently.
Consider these features:
• Floor One S3 Extreme compact cordless vacuum and floor washer (Model #FW050600US)
• Simultaneously vacuums and washes carpets, area rugs and hard surface floors
• LED display for battery level, dirt monitor, WiFi, power level, tank status
• Voice assistant provides key information
• Tineco app to monitor usage, maintenance via WiFi connection
• iLoop smart sensor detects soil level, adjusts suction power and water flow required
• Automatic solution dispensing, adjustment for heavier dispensing rate
• Cleaning solution dispensing rate: 1 ounce/minute (normal), 3.4 ounce/minute (heavy)
• 20 ounce clean water solution tank
• 17 ounce dirty water tank with automatic shut-off
• Large non-slip ergonomic handle for effortless control
• Brushless digital motor for powerful, quiet operation
• 35 minutes running time (Auto mode), 25 minutes running time (Max power mode)
• 21.6 volt 4000 mAh lithium ion battery
• Automatic cleaning cycle for brush and tank
• Maximum recharge time: 5 hours
• 220 watt motor provides excellent suction power
• IPX4 rating (resistance to water splashed from any direction)
• Handle on base to aid in carrying unit
• 9.0 inch wide cleaning path
• High-impact clear brush window
• Brush roller easily removes for cleaning
• Two extra multi-surface brush rollers included
• One extra wet/dry HEPA vacuum filter included
• One 9.5 ounce Deodorizing and Cleaning Solution bottle included
• 3 in 1 Cleaning tool included (brush to clean tank, roller & tangled-hair cutter)
• 3 in 1 Docking tray (with brush roller and filter stand) stores, cleans and charges unit
• Lightweight! Just 9.9 pounds!
• Two year limited warranty on parts and labor
• Floor One S3 Extreme compact cordless vacuum and floor washer (Model #FW050600US)
• Simultaneously vacuums and washes carpets, area rugs and hard surface floors
• LED display for battery level, dirt monitor, WiFi, power level, tank status
• Voice assistant provides key information
• Tineco app to monitor usage, maintenance via WiFi connection
• iLoop smart sensor detects soil level, adjusts suction power and water flow required
• Automatic solution dispensing, adjustment for heavier dispensing rate
• Cleaning solution dispensing rate: 1 ounce/minute (normal), 3.4 ounce/minute (heavy)
• 20 ounce clean water solution tank
• 17 ounce dirty water tank with automatic shut-off
• Large non-slip ergonomic handle for effortless control
• Brushless digital motor for powerful, quiet operation
• 35 minutes running time (Auto mode), 25 minutes running time (Max power mode)
• 21.6 volt 4000 mAh lithium ion battery
• Automatic cleaning cycle for brush and tank
• Maximum recharge time: 5 hours
• 220 watt motor provides excellent suction power
• IPX4 rating (resistance to water splashed from any direction)
• Handle on base to aid in carrying unit
• 9.0 inch wide cleaning path
• High-impact clear brush window
• Brush roller easily removes for cleaning
• Two extra multi-surface brush rollers included
• One extra wet/dry HEPA vacuum filter included
• One 9.5 ounce Deodorizing and Cleaning Solution bottle included
• 3 in 1 Cleaning tool included (brush to clean tank, roller & tangled-hair cutter)
• 3 in 1 Docking tray (with brush roller and filter stand) stores, cleans and charges unit
• Lightweight! Just 9.9 pounds!
• Two year limited warranty on parts and labor
Once done with reading all the Important Safety Instructions, letting the appliance charge for 4-5 hours, snap into place the few parts needed for the appliance to function, THEN, fill the clean water tank with one capful of provided detergent and water (or just water), next, press the on button and you are ready to go. Your floors are on their way to getting the royal treatment they deserve considering the investment you have in them.
No need for pre-vacuuming floors, the Tineco Floor One S3 Extreme is designed to take care of any and all debris (wet or dry, dirt, stains, spills, dust – you name it) on hard surface floors…on the first pass! This unit is both vacuum and wet mop at the same time. Being cordless and having a very ergonomic roller head design to reach everywhere you point the appliance, including the edges of the floor, with the result being streak free with no haze or puddles of water. Priceless convenience and performance!
Finger tip controls, smart control panel, as well as voice prompts bring this appliance into the next level of technology. You know your battery charge level, full waste water tank warning, blockage or improper roller installation, WiFi connection. The indicator panel lights from blue to red when additional cleaning solution and suction being applied to brush roller to tackle especially grimy areas. The voice default setting is English, but can be set to other languages. The voice is a little stern and sounds more like a warning than a gentle helper. But it can be muted, if you prefer, by the push of a button on the back of the unit.
And, for those of us who do not like hauling around an unwieldly heavy floor cleaner, this is your lucky day! You have in this unit a very lightweight, easy to lift (only 9.9 pounds) and maneuverable cleaner. For extra dirty surfaces press a button just above the power switch to add extra suction power and more cleaning solution to dissolve the soil. You will really appreciate fine engineering of the brush head – it actually drives itself forward to lightly wash away the dust and dirt on the floor. You do not push it across the floor – it gently pulls you and glides across your floors! This may seem like a small feature but the effort of cleaning your floors is greatly reduced by this nice touch.
The unit comes with an ultra-concentrated cleaning solution that uses just a capful of solution in a tank of clean water. The provided 9.5 ounce bottle should last for many washings and it really does a nice job in both cleaning and deodorizing. The unit has separate tanks for the cleaning solution and extracted dirty water. The two water tank system makes it easy to add more cleaning solution or dispose of dirty water. When you are finished just remove the two tanks, pour the dirty water down a toilet and rinse both containers. I recommend that you rinse out the area around the brush head and pour water through the suction hole to really eliminate collected debris from the unit. It collects a lot of dirt from your floors and you will want to be sure to have it really clean for your next use. Also, rinse out the HEPA filter after each use. The entire post-cleaning process takes just a couple of minutes. You can also let the unit automatically clean itself on its stand, but I prefer doing it myself after each use. Allow for drying time between uses.
The fluffy roller brush is as described, ideal for hard floors, cleans thoroughly and is easy to remove for rinsing and replacing on the unit. The water on the roller that gets applied to floor and swept off dries in a minute or so and I saw no clouding or streaks when I used the cleaning solution at the normal application rate (one ounce per minute.) I suggest that you buy a couple of extra brush rollers and HEPA filters so that you can have clean, dry parts ready at all times for your next use.
The handle has a very ergonomic design and features a cushioned hand hold for comfortable use. It is a nice length for people of every height and makes control of the S3 Extreme quite easy.
The unit has an adequate run time for most homes (35 minutes on a full charge using the Auto mode.) The display indicates remaining battery life which encourages you to consciously work quickly and thereby make the chore of floor cleaning a short experience. Nevertheless, one design element which I wish Tineco would rethink is that the battery is not removable. It would be nice to have the option of charging a spare battery and exchanging batteries when the charge is depleted. But since most will use this cleaner for relatively small jobs, this is not a big issue.
My floors are 50% wood and 50% granite stone measuring about 2300 sq. ft. With my allergies I find it useful to clean the kitchen floor daily, the other floors once a week. Because it is self-propelled, I found that I could move quickly and cover all floors with one full charge (using two tanks of cleaning solution) . The Tineco appliance and cleaning solution is very compatible with my floors.
So how well does it clean? Hardwood and tile floors: A+! I found that it did an outstanding job on all of the hard surfaces, cleaning the floor and then pulling up all of the water and dirt. It left the floor clean, almost completely dry and streak-free! As a bonus, although it is not meant for heavy-duty carpet cleaning I found that running it over large area rugs served to refresh them, removing surface soil and deodorizing them.
The Tineco Floor One S3 Extreme is a bit pricey. We can’t skip over that. But most of us have limited time available for home maintenance and anything that shortens that time has great value. And you want to keep your flooring in exceptionally clean condition, so this great device with its ease of operation should be the absolute top choice for your hard surface floors to stay sparkling clean.
All in, I would say the Tineco is an ideal cleaning companion for household use. It would be especially useful for anyone who has limited mobility and needs a lightweight unit. The Tineco Floor One S3 Extreme checks all the boxes for practicality, ease of use, powerful floor cleaning, great results at what I now consider a very good value and reasonable price. I strongly recommend it and it has earned the maximum five stars I can award.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+47points
54of 61voted this as helpful.
This is Motif A.N.C., the true wireless headphones from Marshall that amplify your audio while shutting down the noise around you with active noise cancellation. Carry th ebig stage in your pocket with 20 total hours of wireless playtime and the sturdy portable chargin case. These wireless earbuds deliver big on their promise of thunderous sound in a neat package. Enjoy amplified adio in a sealed-fit design that is made for all-day listening.
Customer Rating
5
Top Quality ANC Earbuds Classic Marshall Sound!
on May 4, 2022
Posted by: JimC
from Chicago, IL
How Often Used:3-5 times a week
I am a fairly serious runner and biker and have always been annoyed by the wires connecting my earphones to my iPhone so I decided to look into wireless earbuds. I considered the 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, I found that Marshall has a great product called the Motif ANC which provides a nice solution.
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 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 ANC Bluetooth true wireless earbuds
• 6 mm dynamic drivers, 16 ohm impedance
• Frequency response range: 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz
• Excellent driver sensitivity: 106 (+/- 2) dB @ 1 mW, 1 KHz
• Bluetooth 5.2 SBC connectivity, 50 foot range
• 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)
• Multi-function touch controls (play, pause, skip/back track, accept phone call, ANC setting, equalizer selection)
• Lithium polymer battery life: 4.5 hours playtime with ANC, 6 hours with ANC off, 20/26 hours total with in-case recharging
• 3 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
• 9” USB-C 5V-12V recharge cable included
• Three rubber ear tip sizes (small, medium, large) included
• Weight: 4.25 gram (earbuds), 39.5 gram (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: 106 (+/- 2) dB @ 1 mW, 1 KHz
• Bluetooth 5.2 SBC connectivity, 50 foot range
• 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)
• Multi-function touch controls (play, pause, skip/back track, accept phone call, ANC setting, equalizer selection)
• Lithium polymer battery life: 4.5 hours playtime with ANC, 6 hours with ANC off, 20/26 hours total with in-case recharging
• 3 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
• 9” USB-C 5V-12V recharge cable included
• Three rubber ear tip sizes (small, medium, large) included
• Weight: 4.25 gram (earbuds), 39.5 gram (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 curled black knobs and Marshall “M” script really look good.
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 two 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 twice before the case itself needs recharging. I tested the claimed battery life – 4.5 hours when using ANC, 6 hours with ANC off and can confirm that it is accurate.
The Marshall Motif 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 5.2 Bluetooth specification provided a solid connection more than 50 feet from my phone.
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 six pre-set sound profiles (Rock, Pop, Hip-Hop, Electronic, Spoken and “Marshall”.) I found that Hip-Hop maximized bass response while Pop seemed best for vocals and classical music.
I chose these earbuds for outside activities – would 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 had to recharge 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 4-6 hour playing time from each charge and leave the case at home.
Other features? The earbuds have nice touch controls (play, pause, skip/back track, accept/end phone calls, ANC setting, equalizer selection) 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 (4.5 gram) of the earbuds really enhances their comfort when wearing them for long periods.
Other features? The earbuds have nice touch controls (play, pause, skip/back track, accept/end phone calls, ANC setting, equalizer selection) 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 (4.5 gram) of the earbuds really enhances their comfort when wearing them for long periods.
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!
Sound Quality
5
Comfort
5
Durability
5
Quality
5
Value
5
Ease of Use
5
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+65points
65of 65voted this as helpful.
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.
Customer Rating
5
Most Sophisticated Technology Applied to Shave You
on November 16, 2021
Posted by: JimC
from Chicago, IL
The Philips Norelco 9500 Shaver is a stunning package of technology and the latest entry by Philips in a new generation of connected consumer personal care products. It incorporates a number of important advancements in shaving systems and is designed to provide the ultimate in sensitive skin care of any shaver available.
Norelco shavers are manufactured by Philips North America (the tradename Norelco comes from North American Philips electrical Company.) which is a unit of Koninklijke Philips N.V. , a $20 billion Dutch electronics, lighting and medical products company founded in 1891. Among its best-known consumer products are Norelco grooming devices, Sonicare oral health products, Magnavox & Philips audio and video products, Philips kitchen appliances and personal healthcare.
Here is a summary of the key features:
• Philips Norelco 9500 Shaver, Model: S9985/84
• 72 self-sharpening Dual Steel PrecisionBlades provide 150,000 cutting actions/minute designed to minimize tugging and the need for multiple passes
• Smart Hair Sensor measures beard density 500 times per second and adjusts power as needed for maximum efficiency
• 360 degree ContourDetect flexible heads follow facial contours to maintain skin contact for a closer shave
• ComfortGlide Rings around cutter blade assemblies with anti-friction coating to reduce skin irritation
• Pressure Guard sensor gives a continuous color signal: blue (too light)/green (correct)/orange (too much) to indicate shaver pressure and optimal closeness
• Motion Control sensor provides guidance on shaving technique to reduce required number of passes
• Shaves dry or wet, using water, soap, shaving foam or gel
• Waterproof (IPX7), may be used in shower, fully washable
• OLED display gives charge status, feedback on shaving technique,
• GroomTribe app connects to shaver via Bluetooth, monitors shaving activity, suggests changes
• Pop-up precision trimmer for mustache, sideburns, eyebrows
• 60 minutes of cordless shaving time, lithium ion battery is fully charged in 60 minutes
• 15 volt, 5.4 watt/360 mA charger
• QuickClean pod provides automatic cleaning/lubrication, serves as charging stand
• Travel lock to prevent activation when stored in luggage
• Shaver dimensions: 7.2 inch height, 2.7 inch depth, 2.5 inch width; Weight: 8 ounces
• QuickClean Pod dimensions: 3.2 inch height, 3.9 inch diameter
• Includes shaver, travel case, QuickClean Pod, cleaning fluid, cleaning brush, charger
• 45 day risk-free trial + Two year warranty on parts and labor
• Philips Norelco 9500 Shaver, Model: S9985/84
• 72 self-sharpening Dual Steel PrecisionBlades provide 150,000 cutting actions/minute designed to minimize tugging and the need for multiple passes
• Smart Hair Sensor measures beard density 500 times per second and adjusts power as needed for maximum efficiency
• 360 degree ContourDetect flexible heads follow facial contours to maintain skin contact for a closer shave
• ComfortGlide Rings around cutter blade assemblies with anti-friction coating to reduce skin irritation
• Pressure Guard sensor gives a continuous color signal: blue (too light)/green (correct)/orange (too much) to indicate shaver pressure and optimal closeness
• Motion Control sensor provides guidance on shaving technique to reduce required number of passes
• Shaves dry or wet, using water, soap, shaving foam or gel
• Waterproof (IPX7), may be used in shower, fully washable
• OLED display gives charge status, feedback on shaving technique,
• GroomTribe app connects to shaver via Bluetooth, monitors shaving activity, suggests changes
• Pop-up precision trimmer for mustache, sideburns, eyebrows
• 60 minutes of cordless shaving time, lithium ion battery is fully charged in 60 minutes
• 15 volt, 5.4 watt/360 mA charger
• QuickClean pod provides automatic cleaning/lubrication, serves as charging stand
• Travel lock to prevent activation when stored in luggage
• Shaver dimensions: 7.2 inch height, 2.7 inch depth, 2.5 inch width; Weight: 8 ounces
• QuickClean Pod dimensions: 3.2 inch height, 3.9 inch diameter
• Includes shaver, travel case, QuickClean Pod, cleaning fluid, cleaning brush, charger
• 45 day risk-free trial + Two year warranty on parts and labor
I have used Norelco and other premium quality electric shavers for many years so I know what to expect and demand. This new Norelco 9985 joins my Norelco 7940 which was the previous top-of-the-line model and has given me flawless service for the past couple of years. I also own a lower cost Norelco 3134 shaver that I keep at my Summer cottage. See photo comparison of the new and old shavers.
Like all Norelco shavers the 9985 is elegantly styled and very ergonomic. It is a nice combination of chrome, silver and black. It is fairly lightweight, but feels substantial in your hand. There is rubberized grip material where your index finger and thumb would grasp the shaver and your remaining three fingers cradle the bottom of the shaver’s body. It is a bit longer than my older Norelco and a bit heavier (8 ounces vs 6 ounces.) An OLED display on the front of the shaver indicates charge status, shaving efficiency, a notice to clean the shaver, the Travel Lock status and Bluetooth data connection.
When you press the power button on the shaver and raise it to your face you will see a ring below the shaving head which lights up to indicate the degree of pressure you are exerting while you shave. Blue means you are not pressing hard enough, orange means too much pressure and green is just right. This visual guide is very effective and really helps to improve the quality of your shave.
The shaver head consists of three flexing pentagons, each containing one cutting blade housed in a ComfortGlide ring with an anti-friction coating. I was a bit puzzled by the shape but then realized that the large grooved pentagons both stretch and smooth your skin and also help to lift the beard hairs up for a closer cut. Very clever engineering!
Each cutting head has 24 blades, 15 in an outer ring and 9 in an inner ring. Collectively the three cutting heads have 72 blades which rotate at about 2100 RPM, producing about 150,000 cutting actions per minute. The Smart Hair sensor on the motor measures hair density 500 times per second and adjusts the cutting power continuously to optimize shaving efficiency.
However, before you can use all of the 9985’s features you need to download the “GroomTribe” app to your smartphone. This requires pairing the shaver with your phone through Bluetooth but the process is very simple. Once paired, the app will offer a “guided shave” which monitors your shaving progress and provides tips to improve it. Usually the tip is just “Use smaller circles” or “Move the shaver slower. ” You will also be asked questions about skin irritation and the app will adjust the comfort setting between Normal, Sensitive and Extra-Sensitive accordingly. You can also manually select any of these settings, but only through the app. (You cannot change settings using just the shaver.) The app also has a number of helpful illustrated tips to improve your overall shaving experience. I found the app useful at first, but really did not need it after I used it a few times. The lighted pressure indicator on the shaver itself was much more useful than the GroomTribe app.
So how well does it work? Superbly! The shaving function is the equal to or exceeds the best electric shaver I have ever experienced. It is quiet (no loud buzz like some electric shavers) and it removed every trace of my stubble with absolutely no irritation to my skin. I am accustomed to very good shavers and this is certainly the among the best I have ever used. I did shave for about 12 minutes, more than the suggested 3 – 4 minutes, but I am not about the break the habits of a lifetime just to stay within Norelco’s concept of an ideal shaving time.
Did the “Guided Shave” help? No, not really. It just made me nervous to have my $1,000+ smartphone sitting on my bathroom counter so that I could watch the screen for instructions. I kept imagining the phone being destroyed by getting knocked off the counter onto my marble floor tiles. I think the concept of a Bluetooth-connected shaver, guided by an app, is techno-overkill. As I noted earlier, the advice given by the guided shave feature is pretty trite and unnecessary. Perhaps a neophyte to electric shavers might find it useful but I don’t think it added any significant value. I suggest that you spend some money on a good, lighted, magnifying shaving mirror and you will achieve far better results than by relying on the advice of this app
When finished, I rinsed the shaver and put it into the cleaning/charging station. The included QuickClean pod is compact and it will consume about 12 square inches of your bathroom counter space. It is a patterned black plastic with the base containing the replaceable cleaning cartridge and can be used to hold the shaver. Power for the 62 second cleaning cycle is supplied by the shaver and an icon indicates when it is time to replace the cleaning cartridge. At the end of the cycle I opened the shaver head and it was spotlessly clean and glistened with a light lubricant fluid which had a nice aroma. So I give this feature top marks for effectiveness. The downside is that the cleaning cartridges need to be replaced every three months at a cost of about $6 each time. Not a huge cost but something to keep in mind.
However, I was curious if just rinsing the shaver heads would adequately clean out all of the clippings. The next time I shaved I opened the shaver head and saw my beard clippings filling the head. I closed it up, then rinsed the head under running water and opened it again. It was completely clean! The new design somehow allows water to flow through and clean the heads thoroughly without opening them! So if you want to forego using the cleaning system I think you will still have a fairly clean shaver by just rinsing it.
The flip-out trimmer is adequate for the occasional sideburn, eyebrow or mustache trim. However, the separate trimmer head on my 7940 shaver is a superior design which gives much better control and visibility.
The shaver comes with an elegant, form-fitting travel case. But there is no room for the charger in the case! I wish that Norelco would change the design of its chargers to a USB-C system. That way a simple USB-C cable could recharge the shaver and eliminate yet another electronic item to pack on trips. Norelco makes the assertion that a full, 60 minute charge is sufficient for up to 20 shaves, but most men will shave longer than 3 minutes, which means that you can really only expect 6 or 7 shaves before depleting the charge. Fortunately, the digital display on the OLED screen removes the guesswork about how much charge remains.
OK, so how do I rate the Norelco 9500? For pure shaving function, it certainly is unmatched. The flashy color LED pressure indicator and motion control sensor can really improve your shaving technique over time. The display feedback is superb and the QuickClean pod is excellent for maintaining your shaver without taking up much space. The look and feel of this shaver is a marvel of engineering elegance.
In summary, the Philips Norelco 9500 Shaver has easily earned my unqualified five star rating. I can assure you that it is well worth its cost and you will agree with me that it delivers an absolutely superb shave every time!
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+28points
30of 32voted this as helpful.
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.
Customer Rating
5
Sony Quality, Atmos Sound, Very Comfortable!
on November 7, 2021
Posted by: JimC
from Chicago, IL
Sony’s new Wireless Neckband Speaker is a very nice and innovative option for a comfortable, private video listening experience which makes no compromises with the full audio range of your content. This premium quality device incorporates a newly introduced audio signal processor which creates a virtual Atmos sound system using just the two drivers in the neckband.
Sony is one of the largest consumer electronic companies in the world. It began in 1946 as an electronics shop but soon began producing its own products, starting with tape recorders and transistor radios in the mid-1950s. Sony built a reputation for quality and introduced many innovations in portable audio, including the Walkman in 1979, the CD disc in 1983, flash memory for audio and video in 1998 and the Blu-ray HD disc in 2000. Its consumer audio products including stereo component systems, speakers and headphones are very well-regarded for quality and features.
Here is a summary of the key features:
• Sony Wireless Neckband Speaker – Model SRS-NS7
• 360 Spatial Sound Personalizer to create Dolby Atmos sound envelope
• Bluetooth Version 5.0 supports SBC/AAC/LDAC codecs, multi-point connections
• Flexible ergonomic form factor, rests comfortably on shoulders
• X-Balanced speaker units directs sound upward towards ears
• Passive radiators direct deep bass downward into your body
• Built-in microphone for phone conversations
• Splash-resistant (IPX4)
• Easy-clean silicon and silicon-infused fabric surfaces
• Up to 12 hours of listening time on full charge
• 60 minutes of playing time from 10 minute quick charge
• USB-C power connection ports on neckband speaker and wireless transmitter
• TOSLink (digital optical audio) wireless transmitter powered by TV USB port
• Volume control, power and Bluetooth controls on neckband speaker
• Dimensions: 1.8 inch height, 7.2 inch depth, 9.6 inch width; Weight: 8 ounces
• Includes neckband speaker, wireless transmitter, optical cable, two USB-C cables
• One year warranty on parts and labor
• Sony Wireless Neckband Speaker – Model SRS-NS7
• 360 Spatial Sound Personalizer to create Dolby Atmos sound envelope
• Bluetooth Version 5.0 supports SBC/AAC/LDAC codecs, multi-point connections
• Flexible ergonomic form factor, rests comfortably on shoulders
• X-Balanced speaker units directs sound upward towards ears
• Passive radiators direct deep bass downward into your body
• Built-in microphone for phone conversations
• Splash-resistant (IPX4)
• Easy-clean silicon and silicon-infused fabric surfaces
• Up to 12 hours of listening time on full charge
• 60 minutes of playing time from 10 minute quick charge
• USB-C power connection ports on neckband speaker and wireless transmitter
• TOSLink (digital optical audio) wireless transmitter powered by TV USB port
• Volume control, power and Bluetooth controls on neckband speaker
• Dimensions: 1.8 inch height, 7.2 inch depth, 9.6 inch width; Weight: 8 ounces
• Includes neckband speaker, wireless transmitter, optical cable, two USB-C cables
• One year warranty on parts and labor
I should note that I am a bit obsessive about the sound output from my TV. I have a premium (i.e., expensive!) 7.1.4 Atmos sound bar with rear speakers that collectively has 18 separate drivers. But I still feel sometimes that I am not really getting the full movie theater sound experience – especially for big blockbuster action movies. Should I go out and spend five times the cost of my present sound bar for a true home theater system of amplifiers and massive speakers? Or is there another alternative?
My hope was that this relatively inexpensive Sony neckband speaker might be that alternative.
Setup is fairly easy. First, charge up the neckband speaker with the included USB-C cable. (Full charge takes about four hours from a fully discharged state.) Then set your TV’s digital audio output to PCM.
Next, plug the USB-C cable from the wireless transmitter into your TV’s USB port (essentially all flat screen TVs have them) and attach the optical audio cable from the wireless transmitter to the optical audio output of the TV.
Then, turn on the power and activate the Bluetooth pairing on the neckband speaker. At that point you will hear the TV audio output from the neckband speaker. Finally, download the Sony Headphones Connect app. This excellent app will take you through a series of steps to customize the sound from the SRS-NS7 neckband speaker. (One slightly bizarre element in that process was taking photos of your ears!) You will find an equalizer setup as well as many other sound controls which you can use to tweak the output of the neckband speaker to your personal specifications.
The neckband is very comfortable and fairly lightweight (8 ounces). Sony has employed an excellent ergonomic design to maximize comfort and fit. The shape follows your shoulders and chest to distribute the weight and ensure a good fit. The upward-firing speakers direct their output toward and in front of your ears, giving you the sense that the sound is coming toward you and around you. The passive radiators (which produces the bass) drive those low notes into your neck which amplifies the apparent level. You really feel it.
OK, enough about the shape and how to connect it! How does this neckband actually sound? Well, in a word, fulfilling! The Sony SR-NS7 drivers have a beautiful, faithful reproduction of mid-ranges, clear highs without being too bright and yet they produce significant bass. My standards for speaker quality are Cannonball Adderly’s “Country Preacher” and Miles Davis’ “Kind of Blue” albums. I know every note on both of these classics and the slightest deviation is like nails on a blackboard. This speaker system passed that tough test with gold stars for quality, sound level and range. I also ran them through several tests for frequency response, sound purity and channel separation and they scored very well.
But this is not just a simple speaker system – it is designed to give a faithful illusion of a full Atmos speaker set. Can it do that? I accessed several YouTube videos which allow you to test your audio system setup by sequentially outputting a sound to a hypothetical 7.1.4 system. The videos display the 7 horizontal channels (center, left, right, side left, side right, rear left and rear right) and you hear the sound coming from that speaker source. Then the four overhead channels (left and right front height, left and right rear height). By listening to these YouTube videos with the neckband speaker on you could clearly hear the sound in the direction indicated. Dolby also has several videos which illustrate Atmos sound with planes and helicopters flying overhead and from side to side.
I watched several recent action movies (Marvel blockbusters and recent Star Wars sequels) using the SRS-NS7 and the audio experience was just outstanding. You will really feel that sounds are occurring to your side, behind and above you, in addition to those sounds you normally sense from near the screen. No, it is not as good as a full-fledged 7.1.4 home theater with real, top quality speakers placed carefully around the listener but it is an awfully good (and very economical!) substitute. For me, adding the SRS-NS7 neckband speaker to my 7.1.4 sound bar setup finally gave me that full movie theater sound experience which I have been seeking. I assure you that nothing matches the rich sound experience you will achieve if you combine the SRS-NS7 with an excellent sound bar.
What other merits does this system have? Well, it has a nice range. I obtained flawless reception up to about 50 feet from the base unit. I own three sets of top quality headphones and objectively, their sound reproduction is probably better than the neckband speaker alone. But if extended private listening of a movie or sports event is desired you can turn off your TV sound system and just use the neckband. The sound can be heard by others but it will be very muted to them and the comfort factor for you is certainly much better than wearing headphones.
What other merits does this system have? Well, it has a nice range. I obtained flawless reception up to about 50 feet from the base unit. I own three sets of top quality headphones and objectively, their sound reproduction is probably better than the neckband speaker alone. But if extended private listening of a movie or sports event is desired you can turn off your TV sound system and just use the neckband. The sound can be heard by others but it will be very muted to them and the comfort factor for you is certainly much better than wearing headphones.
Bottom line - the Sony SRS-NS7 Wireless Neckband Speaker is an excellent choice for serious movie fans who want a very personalized audio reproduction and the ability to blast the soundtrack without disturbing others in the household or their neighbors. You will be glad you chose it!!!
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+41points
44of 47voted this as helpful.
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.
Customer Rating
5
Beautiful plus No More Expensive Ink Cartridges!
on November 1, 2021
Posted by: JimC
from Chicago, IL
This printer is a superb choice if quality and cost per page is important to you. The HP 7301 Smart Tank Wireless All-in-One Printer is a very reliable, feature-rich but inexpensive, easy to use device which will economically and quietly print large quantities of documents at an excellent quality level.
HP Inc. is the personal computer and printer unit spun off from the original Hewlett-Packard company. (The remaining units became Hewlett-Packard Enterprise and are focused on the corporate market.) Hewlett-Packard was founded in 1939, operating out of a garage in Palo Alto and was the original Silicon Valley tech company. It designed and built precision instruments, then created its first minicomputers in 1966. These were followed by programmable calculators, including the famous HP-80 handheld calculator. In 1984 HP introduced its first desktop inkjet and laser printers. HP developed its own personal computers then merged with Compaq in 2002. Today HP is the second-largest personal computer manufacturer (after Lenovo.) The HP Imaging and Printing Group is the leading provider in the world for personal printers, scanners and supplies.
Here are the key features of this great multifunction printer:
• HP 7301 Smart Tank All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer/Copier/Scanner
• 2.7 inch monochrome LCD control screen
• Connectivity: Self-healing Wireless (802.11b/g/n/ac), Bluetooth, USB, Ethernet 10/100
• Ink capacity/page yield: Black 90 ml = approx. 6,000 pages, Cyan/Yellow/Magenta 70 ml each = approx. 8,000 pages
• Print resolution: up to 4800 x 1200 dpi
• ISO print speed: 15 ppm (Black), 9 ppm (Color)
• Automatic duplex (two-sided) printing
• Multi-page printing on a single sheet – up to 16 pages/images per side
• ISO duplex print speed: 6.5 ppm (Black), 4.5 ppm (Color)
• Paper capacity: 250 sheets in lower tray
• Paper sizes: Adjustable down to 3.5” width, Letter, A4, Legal, #10 envelopes
• Duty cycle: Up to 5,000 pages/month
• Scan function: up to 1200 x 2400 resolution, 8.5 x 11.7 inch flatbed (A4 paper size)
• Copy function: up to 99 copies, reduce/enlarge (25% to 400%), borderless, duplex
• Full function HP Smart app for PC, Mac and smart phones
• Dimensions: 16.8 inch Wide x 14.3 inch Deep x 9.5 inch Tall
• Weight: 17.0 pounds
• One year/30,000 sheet limited warranty
• HP 7301 Smart Tank All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer/Copier/Scanner
• 2.7 inch monochrome LCD control screen
• Connectivity: Self-healing Wireless (802.11b/g/n/ac), Bluetooth, USB, Ethernet 10/100
• Ink capacity/page yield: Black 90 ml = approx. 6,000 pages, Cyan/Yellow/Magenta 70 ml each = approx. 8,000 pages
• Print resolution: up to 4800 x 1200 dpi
• ISO print speed: 15 ppm (Black), 9 ppm (Color)
• Automatic duplex (two-sided) printing
• Multi-page printing on a single sheet – up to 16 pages/images per side
• ISO duplex print speed: 6.5 ppm (Black), 4.5 ppm (Color)
• Paper capacity: 250 sheets in lower tray
• Paper sizes: Adjustable down to 3.5” width, Letter, A4, Legal, #10 envelopes
• Duty cycle: Up to 5,000 pages/month
• Scan function: up to 1200 x 2400 resolution, 8.5 x 11.7 inch flatbed (A4 paper size)
• Copy function: up to 99 copies, reduce/enlarge (25% to 400%), borderless, duplex
• Full function HP Smart app for PC, Mac and smart phones
• Dimensions: 16.8 inch Wide x 14.3 inch Deep x 9.5 inch Tall
• Weight: 17.0 pounds
• One year/30,000 sheet limited warranty
First impression: elegantly sculpted in a beautiful combination of arctic white, grey and slate with alternating colors and right angles that make the HP 7301 seem smaller than it is. It has a compact footprint (just 16.8” x 14.3”) and stands just 9.5” tall. HP cleverly designed the sheet feeder to fold flat when not in use, minimizing both the height and the width of the printer. The power cord has no bulky transformer on it so it adds to the clean look. Overall you will be pleased to share your office with this attractive unit, especially since it is very quiet. Wirelessly connected, it can be located in any convenient space – it does not need to be next to the PC it is serving. This is ideal for homes and small offices since you can also use this great device as a supplemental copier.
Setting up this printer is quite easy. HP protects the printer during shipping with tape around key parts, but all of the tape is bright blue and very easy to remove. The quick setup instructions are well-written and you could just read them. But an even easier method is to download the HP Smart app to your phone. Attach the power cord to the printer, turn it on and add some paper to the tray. Then just obey the illustrated step-by-step instructions in the app. Filling the printer ink tanks seems foolproof. Once ink is loaded, snap the print heads into position and an automatic alignment process will be conducted.
The HP Smart app will connect the printer to your wireless network. This was the easiest step in the setup process. The printer will automatically join the WiFi network to which your smart phone is connected. At that point the printer will be accessible to any computer or phone on that network. There are two alternates to the wireless connection option: attaching an Ethernet cable to your router or using a USB cable to your PC.
If at any point in the setup you need assistance, HP has prepared excellent videos to explain the process.
If you have a Windows PC just go to Settings, then Devices and select Add Printer. The HP 7301 printer will be discovered and the driver automatically downloaded. Any computer on your network should be able to access all of the printer features with the HP Smart app - a superbly designed software suite, containing easy-to-follow printing, scanning, copying, faxing and photo printing controls.
The HP 7301 has a large (250 sheet) paper capacity in the lower paper drawer. It loads easily and is adjustable for multiple paper sizes. To print envelopes you must remove the paper and adjust the paper guides to the width of the envelope. If you want to use legal-size paper, the end of the paper tray extends to accommodate the longer paper stock.
Print quality is really excellent, even in the economy (standard) mode. In the higher quality (business document) mode the print quality matches most laser printers I have used. The printer driver provides nice printing options like 2 on 1, 4 on 1 and up to 16 on 1 (number of page images on a single sheet of paper), borderless, scaled, fit-to-page, booklet and others. The most useful option is the automatic duplexing (two-sided printing) which it manages without drama.
Photo printing quality is quite good and will satisfy most purposes. (If you want really outstanding photo printing quality you should invest in a dedicated photo printer with more than three ink colors.) This printer’s color capability will be best used in printing business documents (graphs, multi-colored text, PowerPoint slide copies, etc.) and it does a very nice job on such tasks. The printing speed is not equal to that of a laser printer but certainly acceptable at about 15 pages/minute (black) and about 9 pages/minute for color documents (speeds estimated by my own testing.) For home use and most small offices this is more than adequate.
Scanning, at resolutions up to 1200 x 2400 dpi, can be managed from the HP Smart app which will scan to a PDF, stich large documents together and facilitate OCR, among other features.
The copy function is accessed by two buttons on the printer, one for color copies and one for black copies. Hold the button down or tap it to increase the number of copies. It is fine, producing up to 99 copies in black print or color at 1:1 size ratio from each original. But the claim that it can shrink or enlarge originals, adjusting contrast, etc. should have an asterisk. The only way to do these functions is by first scanning the originals to a PDF, then print the PDF using the scale (zoom) setting on the print control page.
There are eight control buttons on the printer (Power, ID Copy, Color Copy, Black Copy, WiFi, Information, Resume and Cancel.) Most are self-explanatory. The “Information” button produces various reports, depending upon how long you hold the button and what other buttons you press at the same time. One puzzling button on the printer is “ID Copy” which is really only useful if you want to make a copy of the front and back of a card (e.g., driver’s license, credit card, etc.) on a single sheet of paper. While this may be useful at times, it seems odd that HP would devote a button to this task.
I tested each feature of the HP 7301 and all worked flawlessly (with the only quibble being the clumsy method of creating enlarged or reduced copies.) The unit seems very solid and I expect that it will work for years without complaint, given its HP heritage.
The most important feature of the HP 7301 is its massive ink tanks. It holds 90 ml of black ink and a total of 210 ml of color ink (70 ml each of cyan, yellow and magenta). Those ink tanks will print about 6,000 sheets of black ink documents and about 8,000 sheets of color documents. If you print ten pages a day that initial ink supply will last you nearly four years! The best part is the incredibly low cost of the ink. The refills for the ink tanks are far less expensive than replacement cartridges. The cost comparison to standard ink cartridges is amazing. A typical replacement inkjet cartridge for other printers costs $30 to $40 and will print 220-350 pages at an ink cost per page of about $0.09. The ink cost per page of the HP Smart Tank system is about $0.004 – less than 5% of the cost of a standard inkjet printer!
With a traditional inkjet printer you probably minimize your printing to avoid costly ink cartridge replacements. This HP 7301 will free you to print much more readily since you have a cost per page lower than almost any other printing device on the market.
Those savings are due to the fact that you are not replacing the print head, as you must with each new ink cartridge, and the elimination of the plastic cartridge body cost. The ecological benefit of eliminating this waste is a nice bonus. And having a large supply of ink will eliminate that dreaded emergency trip to the all-night office supply store to replace an empty cartridge when you need to print a document for an early morning meeting!
One caution: Be sure to print at least one page in black ink and one color copy each month to keep the ink lines from potentially drying out from lack of use.
In summary, the HP Smart Tank 7301 All-in-One Inkjet Printer/Copier/Scanner is superb. I give this great printer a full five stars and my unqualified endorsement. You won’t regret this purchase!
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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67of 80voted this as helpful.
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.
Customer Rating
5
Elegant, Fast & Goodbye to Expensive Ink Cartridge
on October 6, 2021
Posted by: JimC
from Chicago, IL
This printer is a superb choice if quality and cost per page is important to you. The Epson ET-3850 wireless EcoTank All-in-One Printer is a very reliable, inexpensive, easy to use and compact device which will economically and quietly print large quantities of documents at a very nice quality level.
Epson is one of the three major units of Japan’s Seiko Group (the other two produce Seiko watches and SII microelectronics.) Seiko created the printing timers used in the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, then developed the first electronic mini-printer (the EP-101) in 1968. In 1975 the company created the Epson name to brand the next generation of printers based upon the EP-101 technology. Epson literally means “son of EP” and it introduced dot matrix printers in 1978. Epson created the micro piezo inkjet technology (which is the basis for most modern inkjet printers) in 1993. To combat the cost and waste associated with inkjet cartridges Epson released the first of the EcoTank line of printers in 2015. When it comes to printer technology you can’t go wrong with Epson!
Here are the key features of this great multifunction printer:
• Epson ET-3850 All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer/Copier/Scanner
• 2.4 inch color LCD control screen with animation of help function
• Connectivity: Wireless (802.11b/g/n), USB, Ethernet 10/100
• Ink capacity/page yield: Black 127 ml = approx. 7,500 pages, Cyan/Yellow/Magenta 70 ml each = approx. 6,000 pages
• Print resolution: up to 4800 x 1200 dpi
• ISO print speed: 15.5 ppm (Black), 8.5 ppm (Color)
• Automatic duplex (two-sided) printing
• Multi-page printing on a single sheet – up to 16 pages/images per side
• ISO duplex print speed: 6.5 ppm (Black), 4.5 ppm (Color)
• Paper capacity: 250 sheets in lower tray
• Paper sizes: Adjustable down to 3.5” width, Letter, A4, Legal, #10 envelopes
• Duty cycle: Up to 5,000 pages/month
• Scan function: up to 1200 x 2400 resolution, 8.5 x 11.7 inch flatbed (A4 paper size)
• Copy function: up to 99 copies, reduce, enlarge, borderless, duplex
• Epson Smart Panel app for Apple and Android phones
• Dimensions: 14.8 inch Wide x 13.7 inch/19.8 inch (w. tray extended) Deep x 9.7 inch Tall
• Weight: 16.1 pounds
• Includes Photo+, Photo Editing, ScanSmart, NetPrint utilities, setup and driver software
• Two year/50,000 sheet limited warranty
• Epson ET-3850 All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer/Copier/Scanner
• 2.4 inch color LCD control screen with animation of help function
• Connectivity: Wireless (802.11b/g/n), USB, Ethernet 10/100
• Ink capacity/page yield: Black 127 ml = approx. 7,500 pages, Cyan/Yellow/Magenta 70 ml each = approx. 6,000 pages
• Print resolution: up to 4800 x 1200 dpi
• ISO print speed: 15.5 ppm (Black), 8.5 ppm (Color)
• Automatic duplex (two-sided) printing
• Multi-page printing on a single sheet – up to 16 pages/images per side
• ISO duplex print speed: 6.5 ppm (Black), 4.5 ppm (Color)
• Paper capacity: 250 sheets in lower tray
• Paper sizes: Adjustable down to 3.5” width, Letter, A4, Legal, #10 envelopes
• Duty cycle: Up to 5,000 pages/month
• Scan function: up to 1200 x 2400 resolution, 8.5 x 11.7 inch flatbed (A4 paper size)
• Copy function: up to 99 copies, reduce, enlarge, borderless, duplex
• Epson Smart Panel app for Apple and Android phones
• Dimensions: 14.8 inch Wide x 13.7 inch/19.8 inch (w. tray extended) Deep x 9.7 inch Tall
• Weight: 16.1 pounds
• Includes Photo+, Photo Editing, ScanSmart, NetPrint utilities, setup and driver software
• Two year/50,000 sheet limited warranty
First impression of this printer is that is elegantly styled in an arctic white with subtly rounded corners to relieve the bulkiness seen in some competitors’ devices. It has a minimal impact upon your workspace with a nearly square footprint (just 14.8” x 13.7”) and stands a compact 9.1” tall. Epson cleverly designed the sheet feeder to fold flat when not in use, minimizing both the height and the width of the printer. The power cord has no bulky transformer on it so it adds to the clean look of the printer. Overall you will be pleased to share your office with this beautiful unit, especially since when in operation it is very quiet. Wirelessly connected, it can be located in any convenient space – it does not need to be next to the PC it is serving. This is ideal for homes and small offices since you can also use this great device as a supplemental copier.
Setting up this printer is very easy. Epson protects the printer during shipping with tape around key parts, but all of the tape is bright blue and very easy to remove. The quick setup instructions are well-written (unlike those of some other manufacturers) and you could just read them. But an even easier method is to download the Epson Smart Panel to your phone. Attach the power cord to the printer, but don’t turn it on. Then just obey the illustrated step-by-step instructions in the app. Filling the ink tanks on the printer Is foolproof. The ink bottles have alignment tabs which securely hold the bottle while it fills the respective printer tank and the filling process stops automatically when the tank is full. There will be some ink left in the bottle, so reclose it and store it in a seal bag (see photo) to prevent possible leakage. Flip down the ink tank cap and repeat the process with each ink color.
Once the ink tanks have been filled, turn on the printer’s power and follow the detailed instructions in the Epson Smart Panel. The system will be charged with ink in a process that takes about ten minutes. The control panel will display the progress during this step.
Next, load some paper and the printer will conduct an alignment process during which four pages will be printed and you will be asked a series of question to select the line on the page which best matches the sample shown on the control panel.
Once the alignment is complete you can continue to follow the Epson Smart Panel app to connect the printer to your wireless network. Alternatively, you could use the CD included with the printer to establish the wireless connection. The CD also contains the supplemental software which you will use to get maximum benefit from the printer.
If, for some reason you do not want to use the printer’s wireless connection option, there are two other connection methods: attaching an Ethernet cable to your router or using a USB cable to your PC.
Any computer on your network should be able to access the printer. If you don’t want to use the setup CD and have a Windows PC just go to Settings, then Devices and select Add Printer. The Epson printer should be discovered and the driver automatically downloaded.
The Epson ET-3850 has a large (250 sheet) paper capacity in the lower paper drawer. It loads easily and is adjustable for multiple paper sizes. To print envelopes you must remove the paper and adjust the paper guides to the width of the envelope. If you want to use legal-size paper the end of the paper tray flips down to accommodate the longer paper.
Print quality is really excellent, even in the economy (standard) mode. In the higher quality (business document) mode the print quality matches most laser printers I have used. The printer driver provides nice printing options like 2 on 1, 4 on 1 and up to 16 on 1 (number of page images on a single sheet of paper), borderless, scaled, fit-to-page, booklet and others. The most useful option is the automatic duplexing (two-sided printing) which it manages without drama.
Photo printing quality is quite good and will satisfy most purposes. (If you want really outstanding photo printing quality you should invest in a dedicated photo printer with more than three ink colors.) This printer’s color capability will be best used in printing business documents (graphs, multi-colored text, PowerPoint slide copies, etc.) and it does a very nice job on such tasks. The printing speed is not equal to that of a laser printer but certainly acceptable at about 16 pages/minute (black) and about 8 pages/minute for color documents (speeds estimated by my own testing.) For home use and most small offices this is more than adequate.
Scanning, at resolutions up to 1200 x 2400 dpi, can be managed from the printer’s control panel or by using the included Espson Smart Scan Utility (or by just using Windows Fax and Scan utility.) I recommend Epson’s utility which will scan to a PDF, stich large documents together and facilitate OCR, among other features.
The copy function is excellent, producing up to 99 copies in black print or color from each original with options for shrinking or enlarging originals, adjusting contrast, etc. The color control panel walks you through the options available or you can just hit the start button to make a single copy with the default settings and the automatic document feeder.
Other bonus features include easy printing from phones and tablets using the free Epson app.
But the most important feature of the Epson ET-3850 All-in-One Inkjet Printer/Copier/Scanner is that wonderful EcoTank. It holds 127 ml of black ink and a total of 210 ml of color ink (70 ml each of cyan, yellow and magenta). Those massive tanks will print about 7,500 sheets of black ink documents and about 6,000 sheets of color documents. If you print ten pages a day that initial ink supply will last you for more than three years! The best part is the incredibly low cost of the ink. The refills for the ink tanks are far less expensive than replacement cartridges. The cost comparison to standard ink cartridges is amazing. A typical replacement inkjet cartridge for other printers costs $30 to $40 and will print 220-350 pages at an ink cost per page of about $0.09. The ink cost per page of the EcoTank system is about $0.004 – less than 5% of the cost of a standard inkjet printer! If you are upgrading from a traditional inkjet printer you may be used to minimizing your printing to avoid the expense of ink cartridge replacement. This Epson Et-3850 will free you to print much more readily since you have a cost per page lower than almost any other printing device on the market.
Those savings are due to the fact that you are not replacing the print head, as you must with each new ink cartridge, and the elimination of the plastic cartridge body cost. The ecological benefits of eliminating this waste are a nice bonus. The only replacement item on the Epson ET-3850 is a “maintenance box” which collects excess ink. It costs about $15 and probably needs replacement every other year.
The only caution that I would advise is that you print at least one page in black ink and one color copy every month to keep the ink lines from potentially drying out from lack of use.
The more I use the Epson ET-3850 EcoTank All-in-One Inkjet Printer/Copier/Scanner, the more I like it. I can happily give this great printer a full five stars and my unqualified endorsement. Buy it without qualms!
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I would recommend this to a friend!
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103of 120voted this as helpful.
Imagine having the magic of a movie theater right in your home and feeling totally immersed in every scene. With the Bose Smart Soundbar 900 with Dolby Atmos, you can. Custom-engineered upfiring dipole speakers work with advanced Bose technologies to make it seem like your room is filled with sound from every direction. Even overhead. It~s like you can almost feel the rain coming down during your favorite movie. For content that isn~t encoded in Dolby Atmos, proprietary TrueSpace spatial processing intelligently analyzes signals other than Dolby Atmos, like stereo or 5.1 surround sound system, and upmixes them to create an immersive 7-channel speaker wireless surround sound experience with an impressive sense of height in the soundscape. The result is enveloping sound with convincing realism no matter what you watch with this TV soundbar. But it~s not just the sound quality that you~ll notice with this Dolby Atmos soundbar. Material quality. Construction. Finishes. Controls. Every detail was obsessed over to produce a Bose premium soundbar that looks as beautiful as it sounds. And with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant built in, you can create a connected home theater system. This Bluetooth soundbar helps you control all your entertainment, manage your day, and get information ~ using just your voice.
Customer Rating
3
Sorry-Better Soundbars are Available at Lower Cost
on September 23, 2021
Posted by: JimC
from Chicago, IL
The Bose 900 Smart Soundbar is a competent device which includes voice-activated services, supports Dolby Atmos and provides a good (but not great) sound experience. It is attractively packaged in a slim black housing with a glass top but does not meet my criteria for a truly great product. Best Buy offers a number of much better soundbars at equal or lower prices.
I really wanted to like this soundbar, given the popularity of the Bose brand. Bose has established a strong reputation in the audio products field since it was founded in 1964 by Amar Bose, an M.I. T. professor. He sought to develop better consumer stereo speakers using a new approach which utilized reflective surfaces rather than pointing speakers directly at the listener. In 1987 Bose introduced its Acoustimass systems which gave it wide consumer awareness. These consisted of very small cube or double cube speakers to handle mid-range and high notes and a base module to generate non-directional low frequency sounds. Their unique design appealed to many for their style and small size but received somewhat mixed reviews from audiophiles. Today Bose generates sales of over $4 billion from a broad line of speakers, headphones, audio systems and automotive audio systems. It has over 9,000 employees.
My perception of the sound quality is that it is good but “small.” It did not really fill the room like other soundbars I have evaluated. Although the waveguide approach is clever, I think there is just no substitute for the rich sound produced by multiple, larger speakers and the powerful amplification you will find in competitive premium soundbars. Bose equipment all seems to have the same sound profile – an exaggerated emphasis on bass and clipped high frequencies.
I conducted several side-by-side comparisons of the Bose 900 with two other soundbars that I own – a nice 3.1.0 system and a premium quality 7.1.4 system. Soundbars are designated “a.b.c” where “a” is the number of speakers at the listener’s height, “b” is the number of non-directional base speakers, and “c” is the number of “height” speakers. The last element is essential to the Atmos system. The Bose 900 soundbar is a 5.0.2 system.
Both of my alternative soundbars produced richer, fuller and truer rendition of diverse musical works that I know very well (Miles Davis’ Kind of Blue album, the Chicago Symphony playing Beethoven’s 9th symphony, a medley of opera arias and a selection of songs by the Beach Boys, Johnny Cash, Simon & Garfunkel and Smokey Robinson.) In every case the Bose 900 sounded good, just not great. And at the price of the Bose 900, the consumer deserves “great.”
The Bose 900 Smart Soundbar is certainly well designed, beautifully finished in a relatively compact unit with a glass top and a fine black mesh metal grill wrapping around the front and sides. The top has openings for the left and right height speakers. While attractive, the glass top is a fingerprint and dust magnet, so be prepared to wipe it with a microfiber cloth often. The overall width (41.1 inches) is a little smaller than a 50 inch TV (about 44 inches wide) and it is only 2.3 inches tall so the Bose 900 will be relatively inconspicuous under larger TVs.
There is no display to inform you of the status of the soundbar, other than a slim light bar on the left side which glows when a command is received from the remote and to give notifications (in various colors) from Alexa. On the glass top above the light bar area is a spot to turn the Alexa/Google Assistant microphone off.
On the back are the tuned base ports and the primary cable connections (power, eARC HDMI, optical , Ethernet) plus a set of four 3.5 mm connections (labeled Base, ADAPTiQ, Data and IR) and a USB-C socket labeled “Service”. “Base” allows you to attach a sub-woofer with a wired connection. ADAPTiQ is used for the microphone which determines room characteristics. “IR” and “Data” connections are not explained by Bose.
Because Bose gives little information about the product I partially disassembled it to see what was inside. I removed all 31 screws on the bottom of the unit and pried open the metal grill. I discovered that the unit contains seven speakers. Facing the listener are five speakers, a small (1.3 inch tweeter) center speaker, flanked by two pairs of 3.5 inch speakers providing left/right primary sound plus left/right side sound. The upward firing height speakers are 2.5 inches and are located at either end, next to the base port. There is also a listener-facing Bose wave guide to the right and left of the speaker pairs which helps to create the side effect. The speaker arrangement, aside from the two height speakers is very similar to the Bose 700 soundbar.
By placing the side left and the side right speakers next to the primary left and primary right speakers and clustering all four of these speakers in the center of the soundbar the natural separation of sound is hindered. The center speaker (typically used for vocal reproduction) is a very small tweeter so speech is going to be weak in base. Bose missed the opportunity to enhance the side stereo effect by failing to mount actual side-firing speakers at the ends. As a comparison, Best Buy offers another Atmos soundbar at a comparable price (when you add the cost of the optional Bose sub-woofer and surround speakers) which has 13 larger speakers in the main soundbar.
Now, in defense of Bose, they do use a different speaker technology than other firms. They incorporate patented “acoustic waveguide theory” which utilize specially shaped chambers to amplify the sounds from speakers, producing impressive output from relatively small speakers. The sound profile typically emphasizes base and the highs are a bit clipped. A debate among audiophiles has raged since Bose first introduced consumer products about whether the quality of the sound was really superior, comparable or inferior to conventional speaker technology.
Bose has not helped resolve that debate because they refuse to release the specifications (frequency response and amplification power) of their speakers. They insist the subjective judgment of the listener is the ultimate test, not the raw numbers. Skeptics suggest that if Bose really did have good metrics they would tout them in their marketing.
Other concerns/comments:
The remote control is very minimal, not backlit and with only volume and source selection capability. Bose offers a far superior remote control with its 700 soundbar. Since the 900 is now the flagship of the line it should have the best remote control.
As previously noted, the soundbar has no informational display. In order to adjust its settings (base, treble, center channel volume, height channel volume) you have to use the Bose Music app. You need to keep your phone nearby in order to adjust the sound. Another weakness is that there are no equalizer preset sound modes (e.g., movie, sports, music, etc.)
The outmoded Bluetooth 4.2 is used, rather than the clearly superior 5.0 (which can transmit eight times more data at twice the speed over four times the range). Another technical shortcoming is lack of support for any DTS sound format. Also, there is just a single HDMI input, so you cannot connect multiple devices directly to the soundbar.
Good points? The Alexa/Google Assistant capability is excellent. The ADAPTiQ calibration works well, although I think the “headset” is a clumsy way to support a microphone. Setup is simple and worked the first time. Connecting other devices via Bluetooth was easy.
But overall, I believe that for the cost of a complete Bose ATMOS system (soundbar, subwoofer & surround speakers) the consumer has the right to expect near perfection. Keep in mind that to set up a fully functioning Bose system you really need to add a sub-woofer and surround speakers. The cost of these additional components is actually greater than that of the soundbar. For that investment you can find excellent 9.1.4 and 11.1.4 audio systems which, in my opinion, will far surpass the Bose auditory quality.
Consequently, I am reluctantly giving the Bose 900 Smart Soundbar just three stars and cannot honestly recommend that you buy it.
Mobile Submission: False
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
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+24points
42of 60voted this as helpful.
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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