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StlBlues
StlBlues's stats
- Review count14
- Helpfulness votes130
- First reviewNovember 27, 2009
- Last reviewNovember 16, 2011
- Featured reviews0
- Average rating4.5
- Review comment count1
- Helpfulness votes1
- First review commentNovember 20, 2011
- Last review commentNovember 20, 2011
- Featured review comments0
Questions
- Question count0
- Helpfulness votes0
- First questionNone
- Last questionNone
- Featured questions0
- Answer count3
- Helpfulness votes1
- First answerNovember 27, 2009
- Last answerJuly 26, 2010
- Featured answers0
- Best answers1
Bring your 17-inch laptop on the road with this Ibex backpack. The multiple front-facing compartments offer easy organization, while the dual front zippers allow for quick access to your belongings. This SwissGear Ibex backpack has a 23L capacity and provides ample room for a variety of daily essentials.
Posted by: StlBlues
from Rochester NY
Got a new laptop at work, came along with a backpack case -- was heading out on a trip, and I realized that the provided bag wasn't quite big enough for the larger-than-expected laptop (16") -- the top two corners had basically no cushion. Grabbed this at a Best Buy after trying out several others, and this has worked out well -- good options with the pockets, can hold a lot of files/folders, and very adequate cushions.
Would recommend this for any 15-16" laptop, has all you need.
What's great about it: protection and pockets are more than adequate, even on planes
What's not so great: price a bit hefty, but I was in a hurry and couldn't shop around
I would recommend this to a friend!
Ease of Use
5
Durability
4
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0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Learn moreabout Magnolia PremiumInstallation Enjoy your music privately with these in-ear headphones that feature 3 pairs of soft ear pads for a comfortable fit. The soft carrying case delivers easy portability, so you can take your headphones with you wherever you go.
Posted by: StlBlues
from Rochester NY
Wanted a relatively cheap but decent quality set of ear buds for travel, as well as to use around the house -- I have several Denon receivers and other components, so decided to give them a try -- sound is excellent, I was impressed.
works well if ipod is in a shirt pocket or if you're holding the ipod while seated, but the cord length was an issue if you like to have the ipod in your pants pocket or in an arm band -- base cord just barely too short without the extension (buds pop out), but with the extension attached you then have 1.5'+ of extra cable to roll up -- clip kinda works, but made me cringe every time I clipped the really thin cables, seemed like they were going to break.
I returned these and got the higher-end Denons with the 31" cords, because the sound of Denon buds is great, just an annoyance for me with the cable length on this particular model. If this is part of Denon strategy to get people to buy the more expensive models, worked on me lol :) might be OK for many users, depending how you use your ipod
What's great about it: sound is really excellent for the price
What's not so great: cord lengths not usable for some situations
I would recommend this to a friend!
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0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
With 5 isolated and filtered outlet banks and connectivity for cable boxes, LAN, telephones and DSL modems, this power conditioner ensures that your home theater system and other electronic components remain protected from voltage fluctuation.
Posted by: StlBlues
from Rochester NY
Using this for a component rack that's in a corner, away from TV & front speakers. Have Denon AVR-3311CI, Sony BluRay, CD Jukebox, Cable Box, Zone 2 Yamaha Receiver, and Network Switch plugged in to the 5300. Also run cable coax and ethernet thru it straight from the source, so no back-door risk.
Quite confident that protection is good, based on the build quality and all reviews I read before buying this. "Level and Stage" ratings seemed a bit more marketing-related than real world, but nonetheless...
So that leaves the age-old question about improved performance. I've always been skeptical and figured that people saw/heard what they wanted to see/hear when they spent their money on new toys, I know I do sometimes.
Well, I can assure you that (at least for audio) there is a definite improvement, noticed it right away -- more clarity, bass is cleaner and tighter, both for 2-channel music and movie surround sound (Def Tech 7004's, CLR 2002, SM350's) . Surprisingly, also noticed significant depth with Polk Atrium speakers on the patio, never expected that...
Because of my setup, with the TV using a separate power conditioner, I can't really judge the full extent of video improvements, but I did notice ever-so-slightly sharper BluRay, CATV and Netflix picture -- might be my imagination, but makes sense if it's receiving cleaner source material from receiver, bluray player and cable box. I use a 16' Monster 1000 HDMI cable.
I'm so impressed with this unit that I'm strongly considering getting another one, or maybe a 5100, just for the TV/Def Tech 7004's.
What's great about it: Solidly built, quality component, improves performance
What's not so great: price, but in this case, you DO get what you pay for
I would recommend this to a friend!
Other Best Buy Products I Recommend
Monster - 1000HDX 16' HDMI Cable
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+26points
30of 34voted this as helpful.
APC Back-UPS XS 1300 VA Tower UPS - 1300VA/780W - 4.2 Minute Full Load - 5 x NEMA 5-15R - Battery Backup System, 5 x NEMA 5-15R - Surge-protected
Posted by: StlBlues
from Rochester NY
I'd done some homework re: other APC/Cyber models before heading to BB, but after chatting with a sales guy about my setup, he recommended the 1300VA because of the amps. So no, I didn't read the reviews BEFORE getting this home. Gave it a go anyway, because it seemed to be pretty comprehensive, I liked the software, display, etc. -- but yeah, my Dell i7 just shut off in self-tests -- and yeah, the reason was that the power from the battery wasn't clean enough for Dell. Took it back and reduced the variables, got a quality surge protector with coax/ethernet, will deal with this again later -- life's too short :) If you don't have the Dell issue, I think this could be an excellent unit. I rated good-average based on how it seemed it would work if compatible.
What's great about it: Quality piece of equipment, software, display
What's not so great: outlet spacing, doesn't work with some Dells
I would recommend this to a friend!
Features
4
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+2points
7of 12voted this as helpful.
Definitive Technology ProSub 1000 Series Subwoofer System - 750 W RMS - Black - 40 Hz - 150 Hz
Customer Rating
5
Quality sub for most systems
on May 16, 2010
Posted by: StlBlues
from Rochester NY
I have a VERY challenging living room for sound -- vaulted ceiling, open spaces, wide but not deep soundstage -- originally had a ProSub 800 with Studio Monitor 350s, sounded good for music but didn't get the WOW factor with movies -- looked at everything up to and including SuperCubes, but realized that I needed both deep and wide coverage -- with the help of Def Tech support (excellent BTW) ended up doing a dual sub setup with BOTH the 800 and 1000, with the 800 in the best corner and the 1000 on the opposite side of the same wall, and that made all the difference in the world -- tried the 1000 by itself, but while it had more depth than the 800, was still too localized -- I would recommend this combination for any ProSub 800 owners who feel like the 800 doesn't give them quite enough depth -- a really good bang for the buck upgrade
What's great about it: Deep & natural sound, no fabricated boominess
What's not so great: power a little light based on ratings
I would recommend this to a friend!
Sound Quality
5
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+10points
10of 10voted this as helpful.
This SuperSize capacity electric dryer features a DuraCushion dryer drum, 90-minute wrinkle prevent option and GentleBreeze drying system. The reversible door hinges can be placed on the right or the left for ideal placement in your laundry area.
Posted by: StlBlues
from Rochester NY
I wanted simplicity, reliability and quick drying -- nothing fancy or overpriced, because after all, this is just a box that warms up clothes :)
I replaced an old Kenmore which was very reliable for 17 years, but was starting to take forever to get loads dry -- it had done its job, not worth a service call to keep it on life support
So far, after several weeks, this one seems to be pretty solid and does dry very quickly -- most loads done in a half hour or less, so don't need to wait around before starting up the washer for the next load
I do like the light -- the only thing that's hard for me to get used to is the door opening horizontally, but that seems to be the norm now -- my old one was vertical, and the open door would catch loose socks et al which always drop -- so now just need to keep the floor a bit cleaner :)
What's great about it: Easy to use, dries quickly, sale price
What's not so great: Took a while to get rid of the "new" odor
I would recommend this to a friend!
Quality
4
Features
4
Performance
4
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+18points
20of 22voted this as helpful.
This SuperSize capacity washer features a DependableClean wash system with a LoadFlex agitator to ensure your clothes are thoroughly washed.
Posted by: StlBlues
from Rochester NY
Let me be clear: Washing machines are near the bottom of things that are important to me -- I'd rather spend my money on toys -- that said, I do need to get clothes clean every week :(
I was looking for a simple, reliable unit to replace a 17-year old Kenmore which only required one service item ever -- I don't want to spend hours figuring out a lot of high-tech nuances nor do I feel the need to show off an ultra-modern design to make me feel better about spending way too much for what it actually does -- so far, after a few weeks, this one seems to be pretty solid
It IS loud, though -- I had read the other reviews, and expected some noise, so not shocked -- seems that you need to jump several price points to get much improvement with agitator models -- fortunately I have a door on the utility room which muffles the sound well -- when it's loud, I just think about the toys I bought with the money I saved, and all's well :)
What's great about it: Simple to use
What's not so great: Yeah, it is loud!
I would recommend this to a friend!
Quality
3
Features
3
Performance
4
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+2points
2of 2voted this as helpful.
With a 5-1/4" midrange, 5-1/4" planar low-frequency woofer and 1" pure aluminum dome tweeter cone, this Definitive Technology Pro Monitor 1000 Black bookshelf speaker provides immersive cinema sound in a small package.
Posted by: StlBlues
from Rochester NY
Using these as surrounds in my small living room, to go along with Def Tech SM350 fronts, CLR2002 center, and ProSub800, driven by a Denon 2808 -- they replaced PM800s, which I moved to the bedroom walls as an upgrade there -- the PM800s are really good, but the PM1000s are a better fit with the SM350s and CLR2002, as the 5.25 inch drivers provide more bass for the surround channels, and that balances everything out better
Can't go wrong with Def Tech -- every product they make seems to be excellent, and prices are very fair vs. the competition -- it's just a matter of matching up the right combination for your requirements
What's great about it: Clear high & mid-ranges, goes low when needed
What's not so great: Nothing
I would recommend this to a friend!
Sound Quality
5
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+5points
9of 13voted this as helpful.
Learn more about Magnolia Premium Installation Transform your living room into an immersive listening environment with this immensely powerful 8" subwoofer. 300 watts of power and a frequency response of 20-150Hz ensure that movies and music come out sounding deep, rich and impressive.
Posted by: StlBlues
from Rochester NY
With new SM350s, my old Velodyne CHT-10 was showing its limitations -- a lot of bass but not very clear. All other speakers in my living room are Def Techs, and they are great, so I wanted to go with Def Tech for the sub as well. After a few auditions in Magnolia, was assuming I'd go with a SuperCube III, but wondered if that would be overkill in my small living room, and at a hefty price -- decided to give the ProSub 800 a try at home, assuming that I'd return it and get the Supercube -- but to my surprise, the 800 blends very well with the 350s, sounds very natural.
I don't care that much about rattling the walls and feeling like a tank is going through my house with movies, just wanted to hear good, crisp lows in music and realistic sound effects in movies. This sub does the job, and at a fair price. I'm very happy that I gave this sub a try!
What's great about it: Blends well with Studio Monitors
What's not so great: Not extremely powerful, but knew that going in
I would recommend this to a friend!
Sound Quality
5
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+9points
10of 11voted this as helpful.
This center-channel speaker adds stunning sound quality to your home theater system, while adding a sleek and stylish look.
Posted by: StlBlues
from Rochester NY
In process of replacing 8+year-old Polk/Velodyne speakers with all Def Tech. Current receiver is Denon 2808. Have been trying to decide on a new center to go with new SM350s, which I'm using as fronts in a small living room -- replacing an old Polk CSi5 (2-6"s) which is still great for bass/mid but just average for higher frequencies vs. today's technology
first tried out a Procenter, very clear sound but way too thin even with manual EQ, as the Polk had spoiled me for bass -- went thru the whole auditioning bit once again, then bit the bullet and ordered a CLR2002 to see if it was really $500 better than the Polk for my living room.
WOW! It is so clear and solid across all ranges, has no problem going low -- and it blends perfectly with the 350s -- normally I listen to music (in stereo) much more, but I've watched more Blu-Rays and HDTV movies in the week I've had the 2002 than I have in the last 3 months!!
Note: I've been tinkering with the crossover, and appears that both the 350s and 2002 can comfortably handle 80Hz and even 60Hz rolloff at varied volumes, without any noticeable pain -- very solid!!
Funny to read the comments posted re: the CLR2002 being too big -- lol -- everything's relative, compared to the Polk it's small! I've gained enough shelf space to put the Wii next to it!!
Only 2 small issues -- "the sock" is of course annoying (what were they thinking?); and the feet aren't very long so don't give enough angle up from my stand without some "help", but very minor issues compared to the ultra-high quality sound
Worth $500? You bet!
What's great about it: Clarity, range, balance
What's not so great: "the sock"
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+2points
3of 4voted this as helpful.
StlBlues's Review Comments
Only @ Best BuyThese banana plugs feature 24K gold-plated connectors that minimize corrosion and ensure maximum signal transfer. The Centerpin technology allows for easy installation with no wire stripping.
Overall
3 out of 5
3 out of 5There must be a better way.
By PainfullySearching4Name
from Eagle River, AK
I read the other 12 reviews first and agree with many of the one star comments. I will give it 3 stars because it appears tight. But I do not believe this banana plug is the best way to connect your speakers. I did not strip the wire (12awg) but instead just pushed the wire on to the center of the pin. The collar fit tightly around the wire and appeared secure. The key word is "appeared" and I am not sure. I purchased another brand and found the set screw too small for the wire. If you can connect your equipment without using banana plugs then do so or find a review where the words "tight" and/or "secure" are used.
StlBlues
Rochester NY
you are correct
November 20, 2011
the center pin approach is awful -- get monster quick lock banana plugs -- I've tried half a dozen other options over time, and the quick locks are the only way to go -- self-crimping, very secure -- once I found them I've replaced every connection in all 3 systems in my house -- expensive, but worth it
+1point
1of 1voted this comment as helpful.
StlBlues's Questions
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StlBlues's Answers
From the Sanus Euro Foundations line, these distinctive speaker stands are as sleek and stylish as they are functional. Stable adjustable design is ideal for satellite and surround speakers.
what is the weight limit for the speakers these stands hold??
Not a lot of weight -- I have Def Tech ProMonitor 1000s on them and that's about as far as you'd want to go without wobble -- would guess 10 lbs max, and only that if a flat-bottomed speaker with some width/depth, certainly not tall and thin
15 years, 10 months ago
by
StlBlues
Rochester NY
Speaker & Subwoofer Cables
Speaker & Subwoofer Cables
can you connect 2 subwoofer cables?
I need to run a subwoofer cable 25+ feet. I know 25 feet that you sell will be to short, can you connect 2 cables to make it work?
yes there are adaptors available with 2 female plugs -- check an audio shop -- note: while it will work OK, 25 feet may yield some dropoff of signal, so best to go with quality cables
16 years ago
by
StlBlues
Rochester NY
Speaker & Subwoofer Cables
Speaker & Subwoofer Cables
is there really any difference between subwoofer cables
depends on the quality of the sub, but generally YES!! better the cable, tighter the sound -- some monster cable is overkill, but not for subs
16 years, 6 months ago
by
StlBlues
Rochester NY