Vespasian
Vespasian's Stats
- Review Count71
- Helpfulness Votes182
- First ReviewOctober 18, 2014
- Last ReviewJune 25, 2024
- Featured Reviews0
- Average Rating4.4
Reviews Comments
- Review Comment Count0
- Helpfulness Votes0
- First Review CommentNone
- Last Review CommentNone
- Featured Review Comments0
Questions
- Question Count0
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- Last QuestionNone
- Featured Questions0
- Answer Count7
- Helpfulness Votes16
- First AnswerFebruary 15, 2015
- Last AnswerSeptember 24, 2021
- Featured Answers0
- Best Answers1
JBL - Endurance Peak True Wireless In-Ear Headphones - Black
Accompany your workouts with streaming tunes from these JBL Endurance PEAK Bluetooth headphones. PowerHook technology switches them on when worn, and the TwistLock and FlexSoft features ensure a lightweight, ergonomic fit for comfortable, all-day use. Manage music playback effortlessly on these wireless JBL Endurance PEAK Bluetooth headphones via touch-enabled controls.
Good sound, fiddly controls, small battery
Customer Rating
4.0
Posted by: Vespasian
from Philadelphia, PA
on April 6, 2019
These are a good choice for gym use and running, but there are better options for people who just want quality wireless earbuds.
I had no problems with connectivity, and the sound was better than I expected for in-ear wireless headphones. Music reproduction was actually better than a typical wired earbud set, which of course in this age of no-phono-plug-in-flagship-cellphones is a strong recommendation in its own right. Be warned, though - these will not last through the day. I maxed out at five hours on a full charge, but that was with consistent audio playback.
These headphones are comfortable, and I didn't have any issues twisting the curved hooked pieces into place behind my comparatively large ears (think Tony Blair), so these will certainly not rub you the wrong way if worn for a long workout session. Where I ran into trouble was with the incredibly sensitive touch controls. These work best if you configure your volume first and then "set and forget." Adjustments to audio are made by touching certain designated portions of one of the earbuds, but these controls aren't very tactile and it's extremely easy to accidentally gloss over two or three discrete functions when just trying to lower the volume. Perhaps as your fingers build up muscle memory these mistakes become less frequent, but I experienced considerable difficulty finding the right touch sensitive area to do something like lower the volume.
In short, these are recommended for people with athletic inclinations who just want a quality headset to last for a good workout. If you need long battery life, or like mixes of music that feature peaks and valleys in volume, you're better served by something else.
I had no problems with connectivity, and the sound was better than I expected for in-ear wireless headphones. Music reproduction was actually better than a typical wired earbud set, which of course in this age of no-phono-plug-in-flagship-cellphones is a strong recommendation in its own right. Be warned, though - these will not last through the day. I maxed out at five hours on a full charge, but that was with consistent audio playback.
These headphones are comfortable, and I didn't have any issues twisting the curved hooked pieces into place behind my comparatively large ears (think Tony Blair), so these will certainly not rub you the wrong way if worn for a long workout session. Where I ran into trouble was with the incredibly sensitive touch controls. These work best if you configure your volume first and then "set and forget." Adjustments to audio are made by touching certain designated portions of one of the earbuds, but these controls aren't very tactile and it's extremely easy to accidentally gloss over two or three discrete functions when just trying to lower the volume. Perhaps as your fingers build up muscle memory these mistakes become less frequent, but I experienced considerable difficulty finding the right touch sensitive area to do something like lower the volume.
In short, these are recommended for people with athletic inclinations who just want a quality headset to last for a good workout. If you need long battery life, or like mixes of music that feature peaks and valleys in volume, you're better served by something else.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Turtle Beach - Elite Pro 2 Wired Gaming Headset with Elite SuperAmp Bluetooth Audio Controller for PlayStation 4 - Black/Silver
Keep your head in the game with this Turtle Beach Elite Pro 2 audio system. The SuperAmp audio controller is compatible with the PlayStation 4 Pro and standard, and the headset can be used alone with any 3.5mm jack. This Turtle Beach Elite Pro 2 audio system brings comfort and audio quality together for long nights of action.
Perfect, If You Can Overlook the Price
Customer Rating
4.0
Posted by: Vespasian
from Philadelphia, PA
on March 30, 2019
If you're a committed PS4 gamer and price is no barrier to the accessories you purchase, then you definitely should buy this. The Turtle Beach Elite Pro 2 is, without question, the most comfortable high-end gaming headset on the market. The build quality is generally excellent, with a pliable but sturdy connecting band a choice of materials that deftly balances weight concerns and ruggedness, but where this device stands apart from competitors is in the design of the earpieces. These things practically mold themselves to your head shape, and if you have a uniquely shaped noggin like mine (and wear glasses to boot), you'll find yourself overjoyed to finally be using a headset that doesn't make you calculate how long you can endure a background level of discomfort.
For a more detailed breakdown:
BUILD QUALITY - Excellent. All pieces that need to stretch or flex do so admirably, and the parts most likely to wear over time (like the connecting headband) are reinforced with durable metal. As mentioned above, the earpieces are the true engineering marvel. They also detach via magnets, so repair or replacement should be easy.
SOUND QUALITY - Excellent. Treble is clear and distinct, and bass frequencies punch distinctly without overpowering the mix. Midrange frequencies are separated into clear and distinct channels that enables you to discern things that get mashed together in poorer handsets. The audio engineering is advanced enough to make voice chat, background music, and sound effects distinct, clear, and detailed during play. It's pretty amazing to play an FPS and realize that you can hear the cacophony of the in-game chat (with all the different frequencies and microphone qualities players bring to the table), the game music, and sound effects you've been missing every play session prior while using this headset. I personally thought the microphone provided great sound quality; I made sure to check with online teammates for verification! The Speaker Boost feature is also implemented well, but reaping its benefits depends on tweaking your equalizer settings.
SOFTWARE - Turtle Beach wisely eschewed a cumbersome PC interface for a download app (Android and iOS) instead. On first use, I thought the equalizer settings looked worryingly spartan, but I now see that choice was made to make sound mixing as easy-to-execute as possible. You can immediately hear the results of changes as you adjust the sliders on your phone, and it goes without saying that most dedicated PS4 gamers own the kind of smartphone needed to use the app software. The real benefits of the sound booster aren't seen until you tinker with these audio settings; if you calibrate things well, you can use the speaker boost as a volume adjuster to attenuate game audio when there's a sudden surge in noise or music. This is a godsend in games that have selectively implemented soundtracks, like Bloodborne.
CONVENIENCE - Yes, there are a number of cables to hookup, but nowhere near the jungle of wires that the first-gen PS VR required. If you have a game setup that features a chair or sofa and a reasonable distance from your television or monitor, you should have no problems. Stretching the connecting audio cables across a living room floor might be a nuisance for a house pet (or a house mate), but most serious gamers keep their machines and hardware in a separate to keep way from distractions anyway, so the additional two cables you need shouldnn't be an issue.
PRICE - This is the only area in which this headset feels like a bit of a letdown. You'll definitely get your money's worth, but most average-to-casual gamers can get by with a perfectly serviceable headset-and-audio combination for $100 or so. You won't get anywhere near this level of comfort or audio quality, but if you only use your PS4 for about ten hours a week that won't matter to you. If you spend just about ever second you can spare gaming, then this is your rig.
IN BRIEF - Serious gamers willing to spend top dollar on the best audio accessories, or people who value comfort so highly they don't mind spending a little extra, should pick this unit up without hesitation. If this unit is on a considerable sale, make the purchase without hesitation.
For a more detailed breakdown:
BUILD QUALITY - Excellent. All pieces that need to stretch or flex do so admirably, and the parts most likely to wear over time (like the connecting headband) are reinforced with durable metal. As mentioned above, the earpieces are the true engineering marvel. They also detach via magnets, so repair or replacement should be easy.
SOUND QUALITY - Excellent. Treble is clear and distinct, and bass frequencies punch distinctly without overpowering the mix. Midrange frequencies are separated into clear and distinct channels that enables you to discern things that get mashed together in poorer handsets. The audio engineering is advanced enough to make voice chat, background music, and sound effects distinct, clear, and detailed during play. It's pretty amazing to play an FPS and realize that you can hear the cacophony of the in-game chat (with all the different frequencies and microphone qualities players bring to the table), the game music, and sound effects you've been missing every play session prior while using this headset. I personally thought the microphone provided great sound quality; I made sure to check with online teammates for verification! The Speaker Boost feature is also implemented well, but reaping its benefits depends on tweaking your equalizer settings.
SOFTWARE - Turtle Beach wisely eschewed a cumbersome PC interface for a download app (Android and iOS) instead. On first use, I thought the equalizer settings looked worryingly spartan, but I now see that choice was made to make sound mixing as easy-to-execute as possible. You can immediately hear the results of changes as you adjust the sliders on your phone, and it goes without saying that most dedicated PS4 gamers own the kind of smartphone needed to use the app software. The real benefits of the sound booster aren't seen until you tinker with these audio settings; if you calibrate things well, you can use the speaker boost as a volume adjuster to attenuate game audio when there's a sudden surge in noise or music. This is a godsend in games that have selectively implemented soundtracks, like Bloodborne.
CONVENIENCE - Yes, there are a number of cables to hookup, but nowhere near the jungle of wires that the first-gen PS VR required. If you have a game setup that features a chair or sofa and a reasonable distance from your television or monitor, you should have no problems. Stretching the connecting audio cables across a living room floor might be a nuisance for a house pet (or a house mate), but most serious gamers keep their machines and hardware in a separate to keep way from distractions anyway, so the additional two cables you need shouldnn't be an issue.
PRICE - This is the only area in which this headset feels like a bit of a letdown. You'll definitely get your money's worth, but most average-to-casual gamers can get by with a perfectly serviceable headset-and-audio combination for $100 or so. You won't get anywhere near this level of comfort or audio quality, but if you only use your PS4 for about ten hours a week that won't matter to you. If you spend just about ever second you can spare gaming, then this is your rig.
IN BRIEF - Serious gamers willing to spend top dollar on the best audio accessories, or people who value comfort so highly they don't mind spending a little extra, should pick this unit up without hesitation. If this unit is on a considerable sale, make the purchase without hesitation.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Razer - Kraken Tournament Edition Wired Stereo Gaming Over-the-Ear Headphones for PC, Mac, Xbox One, Switch, PS4, Mobile Devices - Black
Give orders to teammates during intense matchups with this Razer Kraken gaming headset. Its custom-tuned 50mm drivers provide a wide soundscape, so you can hear subtle footsteps approaching and shattering explosions, and the gel-infused ear cups provide natural cooling to keep you comfortable. This Razer Kraken gaming headset lets you adjust the game/chat balance for a customizable experience.
Excellent sound, but not really portable
Customer Rating
4.0
Posted by: Vespasian
from Philadelphia, PA
on January 7, 2019
The headphones are surprisingly lightweight and comfortable given their size. The earpieces, in particular, fit snugly around the ears without applying too much pressure.
The audio quality is where these headphones really stand out. The included amp can make even the faintest in-game sounds resonate with a clarity that makes you realize what you've been missing. Calibrating the amp is also reasonably simple. Unlike other users, I had no trouble in achieving an excellent mix that made the full range of the audio spectrum distinct and clear. The microphone also seems to pick up audio reasonably well, but given that my interaction with it was limited to output, I have to admit I didn't have much to go by when evaluating this other than my own impressions.
The real, and potentially deal-breaking, issue with this unit lies in its cable design. Having to use an amp necessarily limits your movable range near your gaming rig, so taking this thing on the road (to a tournmaent, say) really isn't a viable option. What you get in terms of high-fidelity audio you pay for in freedom of movement. If you gaming setup is crammed into a tight space, as mine is, you may find yourself accidentally pulling the amp off a tabletop or shelf, especially if you own a curious cat or two.
All in all, a great headphone setup if you intend to keep it limited to home use, but not one well suited to travel.
The audio quality is where these headphones really stand out. The included amp can make even the faintest in-game sounds resonate with a clarity that makes you realize what you've been missing. Calibrating the amp is also reasonably simple. Unlike other users, I had no trouble in achieving an excellent mix that made the full range of the audio spectrum distinct and clear. The microphone also seems to pick up audio reasonably well, but given that my interaction with it was limited to output, I have to admit I didn't have much to go by when evaluating this other than my own impressions.
The real, and potentially deal-breaking, issue with this unit lies in its cable design. Having to use an amp necessarily limits your movable range near your gaming rig, so taking this thing on the road (to a tournmaent, say) really isn't a viable option. What you get in terms of high-fidelity audio you pay for in freedom of movement. If you gaming setup is crammed into a tight space, as mine is, you may find yourself accidentally pulling the amp off a tabletop or shelf, especially if you own a curious cat or two.
All in all, a great headphone setup if you intend to keep it limited to home use, but not one well suited to travel.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Jaybird - Tarah Pro Wireless In-Ear Headphones - Black/Flash
Exercise to a soundtrack with these Jaybird Tarah Pro wireless sport headphones. Featuring a comfortable secure-fitting design and reliable waterproofing, these headphones stay in place during vigorous activity and stand up to sweat and bad weather. These Jaybird Tarah Pro wireless sport headphones last through the longest workouts with up to 14 hours of battery life per charge.
Worth the price
Customer Rating
5.0
Posted by: Vespasian
from Philadelphia, PA
on December 22, 2018
The standout features of this headset are its audio quality and its battery life.
This product is clearly designed for fitness enthusiaists, as the braided connecting cable and heavy-duty earpieces make plain. Without question, this has to be the best wireless headset for people who spend a lot of time running. This might ward away buyers who exercise less frequently, but the superb audio quality and excellent battery life are more than enough to recommend this item to less exercise-oriented users.
Equalizer settings can be tweaked for this product via software, but I found doing so was completely unnecessary. Treble and bass were clear and detectable, and weren't squeezed into the midrange as with other headsets I've used. The headset is extremely comfortable, too, and I've had issues with other products that feature trailing connecting bands that link the individual ear pieces.
The real surprise for me, though, was the battery. This unit lasted days on moderate use before requiring a recharge. One major inconvenience of wireless headsets has always been the need to constantly plug them in at night, but the Tarah Pro demonstrated remarkable longevity. Charge these before a long hike or run, and you'll have nothing to worry about.
Connectivity was also excellent. I used this headset with a budget Android phone and the downloadable app, and I never lost the connection. The phone I used was nowhere near a flagship, so I can be confident that this headset will work even better with phone models that haven't cut corners wherever possible.
The Tarah Pro is also reasonably durable. It survived being left out around three curious cats who love to swat and bite new things that show up! The cable braiding will probably also prevent the fraying problem that kinking and bending typically pose for your average wired headphones. All of us can think of one instance where one earpiece has suddenly stopped working, due to a cord being too tangled or having beem bent too many times. This seems extremely unlikely with the Tarah Pro's insulated cable, which will definitely extend the shelf life of the headset.
In short, if ypu want an exercise-oriented headset with stellar sound that doesn't need be charged every five hours, this is the product for you, and it's completely worth the price.
This product is clearly designed for fitness enthusiaists, as the braided connecting cable and heavy-duty earpieces make plain. Without question, this has to be the best wireless headset for people who spend a lot of time running. This might ward away buyers who exercise less frequently, but the superb audio quality and excellent battery life are more than enough to recommend this item to less exercise-oriented users.
Equalizer settings can be tweaked for this product via software, but I found doing so was completely unnecessary. Treble and bass were clear and detectable, and weren't squeezed into the midrange as with other headsets I've used. The headset is extremely comfortable, too, and I've had issues with other products that feature trailing connecting bands that link the individual ear pieces.
The real surprise for me, though, was the battery. This unit lasted days on moderate use before requiring a recharge. One major inconvenience of wireless headsets has always been the need to constantly plug them in at night, but the Tarah Pro demonstrated remarkable longevity. Charge these before a long hike or run, and you'll have nothing to worry about.
Connectivity was also excellent. I used this headset with a budget Android phone and the downloadable app, and I never lost the connection. The phone I used was nowhere near a flagship, so I can be confident that this headset will work even better with phone models that haven't cut corners wherever possible.
The Tarah Pro is also reasonably durable. It survived being left out around three curious cats who love to swat and bite new things that show up! The cable braiding will probably also prevent the fraying problem that kinking and bending typically pose for your average wired headphones. All of us can think of one instance where one earpiece has suddenly stopped working, due to a cord being too tangled or having beem bent too many times. This seems extremely unlikely with the Tarah Pro's insulated cable, which will definitely extend the shelf life of the headset.
In short, if ypu want an exercise-oriented headset with stellar sound that doesn't need be charged every five hours, this is the product for you, and it's completely worth the price.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Samsung - Galaxy Watch Smartwatch 42mm Stainless Steel
Manage your time more effectively with this Samsung Galaxy Watch. The Samsung Health app helps keep you on track with fitness goals, and it pairs with both Android and iPhone devices. This Samsung Galaxy Watch comes with small and large straps to ensure a good fit, and the battery lasts up to six days after a wireless charge.
Solves the problems posed by other smartwatches
Customer Rating
5.0
Posted by: Vespasian
from Philadelphia, PA
on September 30, 2018
The Galaxy Watch, wits rotary dial bezel and dedicated back key, elegantly resolves the problems posed by gesture-based smartwatches that make referencing even basic info more of a chore than a pleasure. The Galaxy Watch is well-built, with a durable case and quality screen that gets bright enough to be usable in ample sunlight. There's a reflective layer on top of the watch face which smudges easily, but that can be rectified with a carefully applied screen protector or regular cleaning. The watch feels comfortably durable, which is important for a piece of tech that's far more likely to get dinged up on your wrist than your pocket-concealed smartphone. Where the watch really shines, though, is in its execution of the core smartwatch functions that so many other competitors struggle with.
The most important functions, email, alarms, and calendar capabilities, really shine with the rotary bezel selection switch. No more swiping through cards trying to see the full text of an important email; you an simply rotate the bezel a few clicks and hit back. For people who need something discreet to use during meetings, or long waits in traffic, this is ideal. I stopped using smartwatches prior to this precisely because of the difficulty posed by accessing the most elementary and important stuff. Plus, you can easily make an adjustment to your playlist from the watch face as well.
The health and fitness apps, truth be told, are not as precise or accurate as what comes with a fitness tracker, but if what you need is a fitness tracker than this probably isn't the device for you. For business professionals, this is an ideal accessory that's attractive, well-sized (no more giant buttons bursting out of your shirt cuff), and stocked with the right software you need. People with more casual needs will undoubtedly think this is overkill, but for those of us who need to stay in constant email contact with multiple accounts, this thing is a godsend. The battery life doesn't disappoint either, and you won't need to charge this any more than you do the smartphone it's paired with.
I tested this device using an Android handset, and can't speak for its usability on iOS, but I can strongly recommend this to Android users who need a "quick check" via a smartwatch. If devices like this were part of the first generation of smartwatch releases, the adoption rate would be far higher than it is now. The Watch may seem a bit pricey, but the markup is well worth it. Highly recommended if you don't want to whip your phone out of your pocket every minute, or can't.
The most important functions, email, alarms, and calendar capabilities, really shine with the rotary bezel selection switch. No more swiping through cards trying to see the full text of an important email; you an simply rotate the bezel a few clicks and hit back. For people who need something discreet to use during meetings, or long waits in traffic, this is ideal. I stopped using smartwatches prior to this precisely because of the difficulty posed by accessing the most elementary and important stuff. Plus, you can easily make an adjustment to your playlist from the watch face as well.
The health and fitness apps, truth be told, are not as precise or accurate as what comes with a fitness tracker, but if what you need is a fitness tracker than this probably isn't the device for you. For business professionals, this is an ideal accessory that's attractive, well-sized (no more giant buttons bursting out of your shirt cuff), and stocked with the right software you need. People with more casual needs will undoubtedly think this is overkill, but for those of us who need to stay in constant email contact with multiple accounts, this thing is a godsend. The battery life doesn't disappoint either, and you won't need to charge this any more than you do the smartphone it's paired with.
I tested this device using an Android handset, and can't speak for its usability on iOS, but I can strongly recommend this to Android users who need a "quick check" via a smartwatch. If devices like this were part of the first generation of smartwatch releases, the adoption rate would be far higher than it is now. The Watch may seem a bit pricey, but the markup is well worth it. Highly recommended if you don't want to whip your phone out of your pocket every minute, or can't.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Enjoy 4K and HDR movies with this LG Ultra HD Blu-ray player. It supports CD, DVD and various audio and video formats for versatile entertainment. It's 4K upscaling capability provides enhanced display for lower-resolution videos. The USB port of this LG Ultra HD Blu-ray player lets you play content from an external storage device.
Very Good No-Frills 4K Blu-Ray Player
Customer Rating
4.0
Posted by: Vespasian
from Philadelphia, PA
on August 17, 2018
This device is exceptionally good at the one thing you need something like this to do - play 4K Blu-Rays and all your other disc-based physical media. Load times are reasonably speedy and are comparable to first-gen Blu-Ray players when Blu-Ray was still an emerging technology. The player is well designed and solidly built, even if its physical footprint might be too big for some. I don't mind the size, because this device is still smaller than the first Blu-Ray player I owned, and approximately the size of an early-2000s DVD player. The device has minimal features on the front, with the biggest standouts being the enlarged playback keys along the right-hand side. These are slightly enlarged to enable easy location with your fingers in a darkened setting, which is a pragmatic design inclusion I'm particularly thankful for. Those of you who have ever opened a disc tray with an accidental brush of your hand past a surface will know exactly what I mean.
Where some people might feel a bit disappointed is with the rather spartan offerings baked into the device software. There are no built-in apps, the audio player is virtually identical to what was included in your old DVD player, and "smart" features in general seem to be lacking. The UBK80 doesn't have built in WiFi, so you won't automatically be able to connect to your home network. There is a standard Ethernet port on the back of the device, but the likelihood of your home entertainment center being within a cord's reach of your modem or router is pretty slim, especially if you use a home mesh system or WiFi extenders to keep your Internet equipment tucked out of the way in the basement. There's a lot of negative feedback about this omission, but I personally feel that omitting apps was a prudent decision on LG's part (omitting WiFi poses a separate problem, which I'll talk about shortly). Most, if not all, 4K TVs on the market come equipped with some OS baked into the TV that offers access to the most popular apps and services for streaming. Outfitting a 4K Blu-Ray player with this same functionality would kind of needlessly drive up the price for features most users won't spend a lot of time with. The target customer for this device is the person who has an extensive disc library, or is such a cinephile that he or she is willing to splurge on upgraded copies of recent Hollywood films to get the best possible viewing experience, not someone who wants a streaming device that plays the occasional disc.
And regarding 4K disc playback, this device does a very good job. There are brief loading times, but those of us with long memories recall when similar loading times existed for Blu-Ray. You can manually adjust some aspects of disc playback, but since picture quality is going to be partially dependent on your TV's options as well, it's best to simply think that the UBK80 offers "tweaks" that can augment what your TV can already do (or not do). This player won't raise a budget 4K TV to the picture quality of a top-of-the-line Samsung, but the fact that it can't has nothing to do with the player.
The only real potential problem, and it relates to the omission of WiFi, has to do with future-proofing. I'm sure the 4K playback standard will improve over time, and, just as was the case with first-gen Blu-Ray players, this will inevitably require a firmware update at some point down the road. This is where no WiFi becomes a pain. Missing out on apps that are already present on my TV doesn't bother me; needing to lug my 4K player down to my basement just to upgrade the firmware will. The kind of WiFi necessary for this kind of service is pretty easy to implement, so I'm disappointed it wasn't included. Even my Raspberry Pi board comes out of the box with functional WiFi.
In short, get this player to pick up a reasonably inexpensive 4K Blu-Ray player that doesn't compromise on its most necessary functions, so long as you can do without some conveniences that are standard on higher-end models. This a very good 4K Blu-Ray (and Blu-Ray and DVD and audio) player, but that is all that it is.
Where some people might feel a bit disappointed is with the rather spartan offerings baked into the device software. There are no built-in apps, the audio player is virtually identical to what was included in your old DVD player, and "smart" features in general seem to be lacking. The UBK80 doesn't have built in WiFi, so you won't automatically be able to connect to your home network. There is a standard Ethernet port on the back of the device, but the likelihood of your home entertainment center being within a cord's reach of your modem or router is pretty slim, especially if you use a home mesh system or WiFi extenders to keep your Internet equipment tucked out of the way in the basement. There's a lot of negative feedback about this omission, but I personally feel that omitting apps was a prudent decision on LG's part (omitting WiFi poses a separate problem, which I'll talk about shortly). Most, if not all, 4K TVs on the market come equipped with some OS baked into the TV that offers access to the most popular apps and services for streaming. Outfitting a 4K Blu-Ray player with this same functionality would kind of needlessly drive up the price for features most users won't spend a lot of time with. The target customer for this device is the person who has an extensive disc library, or is such a cinephile that he or she is willing to splurge on upgraded copies of recent Hollywood films to get the best possible viewing experience, not someone who wants a streaming device that plays the occasional disc.
And regarding 4K disc playback, this device does a very good job. There are brief loading times, but those of us with long memories recall when similar loading times existed for Blu-Ray. You can manually adjust some aspects of disc playback, but since picture quality is going to be partially dependent on your TV's options as well, it's best to simply think that the UBK80 offers "tweaks" that can augment what your TV can already do (or not do). This player won't raise a budget 4K TV to the picture quality of a top-of-the-line Samsung, but the fact that it can't has nothing to do with the player.
The only real potential problem, and it relates to the omission of WiFi, has to do with future-proofing. I'm sure the 4K playback standard will improve over time, and, just as was the case with first-gen Blu-Ray players, this will inevitably require a firmware update at some point down the road. This is where no WiFi becomes a pain. Missing out on apps that are already present on my TV doesn't bother me; needing to lug my 4K player down to my basement just to upgrade the firmware will. The kind of WiFi necessary for this kind of service is pretty easy to implement, so I'm disappointed it wasn't included. Even my Raspberry Pi board comes out of the box with functional WiFi.
In short, get this player to pick up a reasonably inexpensive 4K Blu-Ray player that doesn't compromise on its most necessary functions, so long as you can do without some conveniences that are standard on higher-end models. This a very good 4K Blu-Ray (and Blu-Ray and DVD and audio) player, but that is all that it is.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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ANTOP - Indoor/Outdoor Flat Panel Antenna
Maximize your broadcast viewing enjoyment with this flat-panel ANTOP outdoor HDTV antenna. It captures UHF and VHF signals within its powerful 65-mile reception range, and its durable exterior resists moisture and UV damage. Install this ANTOP outdoor HDTV antenna on a wall or pole via its mounting bracket, or place it indoors with the included stand.
A Great Antenna Suffering From an Identity Crisis
Customer Rating
3.0
Posted by: Vespasian
from Philadelphia, PA
on July 16, 2018
The ANTOP indoor/outdoor hybrid antenna is a great unamplified antenna in terms of signal reception, but build decisions meant to facilitate its use either indoors or outdoors hamstring what would otherwise have been a good choice for cord-cutters looking for something better than a Mohu.
Make no mistake - this thing is BIG. Seated next to my 55" TV, the antenna actually rose above it by a good inch or two. The ponderously big size undoubtedly hides a greater range of antenna relays, which helps explain why signal reception was so good for the 32 stations I was able to dial in. Almost all came in clearly and consistently, with only two to three stations (the usual suspects for the Philadelphia metropolitan area) demonstrating interruptions or scrambled images.
The problem with the antenna comes from its aforementioned size. This device really isn't practical for indoor use. It comes with a plastic tabletop stand that you can attach, but since most of the weight is located in the convex face of the antenna, you might need duct table to securely fix it to your TV stand or a neighboring small table to prevent tipping. And since you'll need to raise it a few feet to maximize reception, you're going to have to budget living room space for this beast. Your best bet might be mounting it on a wall near your TV; the heavy duty, well-made mounting plate is strong enough to keep it securely anchored to any wall stud you choose to attach this thing to. The antenna, while heavier than competing brands, is light enough to endure a wall mount as well.
As to outdoor use, I'm not sure why anyone would want to use it doors. The antenna looks like a very large WiFi repeater, and is entirely made out of plastic. Since it's vertically oriented, and not horizontally oriented like most aerials, you can't really effectively attach this to your roof and hope that you chanced to point it in the best possible direction. The plastic body doesn't recommend it for outdoor use, either. In southeast PA, we can occasionally get hailstones and regularly deal with strong wind. While most weather hazards would either pass through the tines of a standard outdoor antenna, or at worst break a piece off, I can guarantee that the plastic housing is going to see some damage if you mount this thing outside. You could attach it to your wall, but since that would severely limit your signal reception, it would be odd to recommend doing so over simply keeping the device near a window. At least, as already stated, the included mounting hardware is durable enough to withstand the elements, even if the plastic frame isn't.
But people buy antennas to pick up TV signals primarily, and in this respect the ANTOP is reasonably decent for a non-amplified indoor antenna. The problem, however, is that it's not appreciably more decent that other amplified brands, like Winegard or Mohu. And since those antennas are typically small and easily tucked out of sight (or at least don't require their own little display stand), it's difficult to recommend this model over something more compact. Yes, you'lll get pretty good signal reception with the ANTOP, but not enough to warrant dealing with the size hassle.
In short, if what you need is the best possible indoor signal reception, and you're comfortable with a humongo slab of off-white plastic, then this is your antenna. The rest of us will get by just fine with something smaller and a few more dropped channels.
Make no mistake - this thing is BIG. Seated next to my 55" TV, the antenna actually rose above it by a good inch or two. The ponderously big size undoubtedly hides a greater range of antenna relays, which helps explain why signal reception was so good for the 32 stations I was able to dial in. Almost all came in clearly and consistently, with only two to three stations (the usual suspects for the Philadelphia metropolitan area) demonstrating interruptions or scrambled images.
The problem with the antenna comes from its aforementioned size. This device really isn't practical for indoor use. It comes with a plastic tabletop stand that you can attach, but since most of the weight is located in the convex face of the antenna, you might need duct table to securely fix it to your TV stand or a neighboring small table to prevent tipping. And since you'll need to raise it a few feet to maximize reception, you're going to have to budget living room space for this beast. Your best bet might be mounting it on a wall near your TV; the heavy duty, well-made mounting plate is strong enough to keep it securely anchored to any wall stud you choose to attach this thing to. The antenna, while heavier than competing brands, is light enough to endure a wall mount as well.
As to outdoor use, I'm not sure why anyone would want to use it doors. The antenna looks like a very large WiFi repeater, and is entirely made out of plastic. Since it's vertically oriented, and not horizontally oriented like most aerials, you can't really effectively attach this to your roof and hope that you chanced to point it in the best possible direction. The plastic body doesn't recommend it for outdoor use, either. In southeast PA, we can occasionally get hailstones and regularly deal with strong wind. While most weather hazards would either pass through the tines of a standard outdoor antenna, or at worst break a piece off, I can guarantee that the plastic housing is going to see some damage if you mount this thing outside. You could attach it to your wall, but since that would severely limit your signal reception, it would be odd to recommend doing so over simply keeping the device near a window. At least, as already stated, the included mounting hardware is durable enough to withstand the elements, even if the plastic frame isn't.
But people buy antennas to pick up TV signals primarily, and in this respect the ANTOP is reasonably decent for a non-amplified indoor antenna. The problem, however, is that it's not appreciably more decent that other amplified brands, like Winegard or Mohu. And since those antennas are typically small and easily tucked out of sight (or at least don't require their own little display stand), it's difficult to recommend this model over something more compact. Yes, you'lll get pretty good signal reception with the ANTOP, but not enough to warrant dealing with the size hassle.
In short, if what you need is the best possible indoor signal reception, and you're comfortable with a humongo slab of off-white plastic, then this is your antenna. The rest of us will get by just fine with something smaller and a few more dropped channels.
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
Mobile Submission: False
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LeEco - Le S3 4G with 32GB Memory Cell Phone (Unlocked) - Gray
Enjoy the advanced functionality of this 32 GB LeEco Le S3 ecophone. Its embedded bezel and aluminum body offers solid protection from everyday dings and bumps, and the Gorilla Glass touch screen won't shatter when it's dropped. This LeEco Le S3 ecophone has a 5.5-inch Full HD display and CDLA audio for an immersive multimedia experience.
Excellent value, much better than you'd think
Customer Rating
5.0
The professional review sites are a bit critical of this device, but I'd say this is the best cellphone value I've come across in the past five years. There are some compromises, sure, but this device has been a stalwart performer since I first picked it up, and I say that coming from Android devices that earned better review scores elsewhere.
PROS:
Excellent build
Faster than the spec sheet would lead you to believe, and equipped with an awesome task manager to kill apps clogging working memory
Good screen, though the colors are slightly diluted
Good call quality and connectivity
Great notification system, with number overlays indicating which apps have seen activity
Really fast charging
Dual SIM, or expandable memory via SD card. Your choice.
NEUTRAL:
No headphone jack, but comes with a pretty good pair of USB-C
headphones
CONS:
The camera stinks. Like, really stinks.
Custom Android overlay takes some getting used to, but standard features (like an app drawer) have been restored through an OS update.
Navigation buttons are reversed, though that's quite common with phones originating from China.
LeEco is in financial trouble, so future updates might be slow on arriving.
So, there's certainly some things about this device that aren't that great, but there are far fewer of them than comparable devices at this price point. I'm consistently and pleasantly surprised at how well the performance of this device holds up; in fact, it runs better than the LG G4 it replaced and the Honor 8 I'm tapping out this review on. If you need a reliable performer, want good build materials, and can cope with an average camera, definitely grab this device. Well, well worth it.
PROS:
Excellent build
Faster than the spec sheet would lead you to believe, and equipped with an awesome task manager to kill apps clogging working memory
Good screen, though the colors are slightly diluted
Good call quality and connectivity
Great notification system, with number overlays indicating which apps have seen activity
Really fast charging
Dual SIM, or expandable memory via SD card. Your choice.
NEUTRAL:
No headphone jack, but comes with a pretty good pair of USB-C
headphones
CONS:
The camera stinks. Like, really stinks.
Custom Android overlay takes some getting used to, but standard features (like an app drawer) have been restored through an OS update.
Navigation buttons are reversed, though that's quite common with phones originating from China.
LeEco is in financial trouble, so future updates might be slow on arriving.
So, there's certainly some things about this device that aren't that great, but there are far fewer of them than comparable devices at this price point. I'm consistently and pleasantly surprised at how well the performance of this device holds up; in fact, it runs better than the LG G4 it replaced and the Honor 8 I'm tapping out this review on. If you need a reliable performer, want good build materials, and can cope with an average camera, definitely grab this device. Well, well worth it.
I would recommend this to a friend!
My Best Buy number: 2151454701
Mobile Submission: True
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LG - Google Nexus 5X 4G with 16GB Memory Cell Phone (Unlocked) - Carbon
LG Google Nexus 5X Unlocked Cell Phone: With 4G LTE speed and Wi-Fi, you'll be able to stay connected both at home and on the go. Capture important events in your life using the 12.3MP rear-facing and 5.0MP front-facing cameras. Plus, the fingerprint reader keeps all of your stored data private.
Stutter, crash, lag
Customer Rating
2.0
I've used every phone in the Nexus series since the Galaxy Nexus, and thus truly feels like a step backwards. The only virtues of this device, compared to the competition, are the fingerprint scanner and the multi-carrier compatibility (this will work on Verizon, despite what a store rep may tell you). Perhaps 2 GB ram isn't enough for the Snapdragon 808, because this device behaves more strangely than any Android phone I've used. Everything is wildly inconsistent. The camera app will work fine one minute, and then take 3 seconds to snap a picture after pressing the capture key the next. When I open Gmail, half the time the little compose icon in the bottom right gets tiled momentarily and I get a nice mosaic instead of Gmail landing menu for a few seconds. Web browsing on Chrome can be fast or unbelievably slow depending on the phone 's mood and the alignment of the stars. A number of reviewers called out the performance hiccups when they first reviewed the device, but most seemed convinced software updates had ironed them out. They haven't, not by a longshot. I thought my unit may be defective, but other owners on forums like XDA Developers are complaining about similar problems. In short:
PROS:
Good call quality, nice fingerprint sensor, decent screen, carrier-neutral
CONS: Terrible performance, mediocre battery life, unpredictable camera, cheap build quality for the money, too big for a 5.2" screen.
Buy a Moto X Pure Edition instead.
PROS:
Good call quality, nice fingerprint sensor, decent screen, carrier-neutral
CONS: Terrible performance, mediocre battery life, unpredictable camera, cheap build quality for the money, too big for a 5.2" screen.
Buy a Moto X Pure Edition instead.
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
My Best Buy number: 2151454701
Mobile Submission: True
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![Schock [CD]](https://pisces.bbystatic.com/image2/BestBuy_US/images/products/2600/26001545_sa.jpg)
Schock [CD]
More Like Megaherz
Customer Rating
4.0
Eisbrecher's most recent records have been bringing the guitars and the Neue Deutsche Harte sound to the fore, and Schock is no exception. Tracks like Zwischen Uns seethe with an energy that was missing from Eisbrecher for a long time. Some of the slower numbers are a little bland, but the better tracks make the album a worthwhile purchase. Recommended for fans of Rammstein, Oomph!, or Megaherz.
I would recommend this to a friend!
My Best Buy number: 2151454701
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Vespasian's Answers
AIRPOP - Light SE 4 Pack KN95 Masks - Black
AirPop is the world’s first “air wearables” company. Since 2015, we’ve been leveraging anthropomorphic & material science with the latest technology to build ultra-high-performance products that provide an unrivaled breathing experience for millions of users around the world. Comprised of an award-winning team of experts in performance apparel, ergonomics, air filtration, material science, and advanced manufacturing. The foundation of our entire range of masks is class-leading filtration that works 2 ways. Every breath inward through AirPop masks is 97% filtered of particles and droplets and importantly today, every breath outward is filtered just the same. Your Air – Your choice. Designed for everyday use, with a super-light construction that ensures the mask’s shape doesn’t collapse. It maintains an air cushion between your mouth, nose and lips for comfortable breathing. KN95 certified.
How many layers are there? What materials are used in each layer?
There seem to be at least three layers, and the material is primarily nylon and polyester. Great if you have a medium to small nose, not so much otherwise.
2 years, 9 months ago
by
Posted by:
Vespasian
AIRPOP - Light SE 4 Pack KN95 Masks - Black
AirPop is the world’s first “air wearables” company. Since 2015, we’ve been leveraging anthropomorphic & material science with the latest technology to build ultra-high-performance products that provide an unrivaled breathing experience for millions of users around the world. Comprised of an award-winning team of experts in performance apparel, ergonomics, air filtration, material science, and advanced manufacturing. The foundation of our entire range of masks is class-leading filtration that works 2 ways. Every breath inward through AirPop masks is 97% filtered of particles and droplets and importantly today, every breath outward is filtered just the same. Your Air – Your choice. Designed for everyday use, with a super-light construction that ensures the mask’s shape doesn’t collapse. It maintains an air cushion between your mouth, nose and lips for comfortable breathing. KN95 certified.
Does this filter out covid? Otherwise it's useless!
I encountered continual air leakage from the upper part of the mask, which would indicate that the mask is not filtering out Covid at all. The material is good quality and would provide better protection than standard face masks if this weren't a problem.
2 years, 9 months ago
by
Posted by:
Vespasian
Your filter options used to include "depth with stand". Is this still an option?
I have a tight mantle space where depth and overall height are the two main factors in my choice, but your filter options no longer include these? Am I looking in the wrong place or did you decide to remove these options?
The stand adds about 1-1/2 to 2" to the rear of the TV, so you can use that as an approximate guide.
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2 years, 10 months ago
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Posted by:
Vespasian
Insignia™ - 55" Class F50 Series QLED 4K UHD Smart Fire TV
This 55-inch screen uses quantum dot technology in 4K Ultra HD for vibrant, true-to-life images. Dolby Vision HDR contrasts bright highlights with dark shadows, so you can catch subtle details. Plus, DTS Virtual-X speaker technology delivers life-like sound from your TV. Access live over-the-air channels and streaming—and control it all with your voice. Ask Alexa to launch apps, search for titles and more. The Insignia NS-55F501NA22 55" Class F50 Series QLED 4K UHD Smart Fire TV is ready for an unforgettable night of entertainment.
Can Alexa along with any and all microphones be disabled? Is the only microphone on the remote or is there one built into the TV? I don't want my TV/Amazon listening to me.
You have to hold a button down on your remote in order to activate Alexa, so yes, you can effectively disable it by never using the feature. The "listening" seems to be done on the remote's end, so the TV won't pick up any audio from you if you're not trying to use Alexa.
2 years, 10 months ago
by
Posted by:
Vespasian
The Shark UltraCyclone Pet Pro+ is a cordless handheld vacuum designed for powerful suction. It comes with a motorized self-cleaning Pet Power Brush that eliminates hair wrap, a lithium-ion battery, CleanTouch dirt ejector, and more, at only 2.8 lbs.
How long is the battery duration?
Not that long if used constantly, but when used in bursts or short sessions it's good. I don't have an exact number.
3 years, 10 months ago
by
Posted by:
Vespasian
Jaybird - Tarah Pro Wireless In-Ear Headphones - Black/Flash
Exercise to a soundtrack with these Jaybird Tarah Pro wireless sport headphones. Featuring a comfortable secure-fitting design and reliable waterproofing, these headphones stay in place during vigorous activity and stand up to sweat and bad weather. These Jaybird Tarah Pro wireless sport headphones last through the longest workouts with up to 14 hours of battery life per charge.
I have the x3 and the cord sticks to some of my clothes. Is this the same or does the new cord material work better?
I had no trouble with the cord for the Tarah Pro sticking. The braiding could perhaps attach to any clothing that has small, protruding fibers, like a sweater, but not on a sweatshirt or T-shirt.
5 years, 6 months ago
by
Posted by:
Vespasian
NETGEAR - Universal Wi-Fi Range Extender with Ethernet port
NETGEAR Universal Wi-Fi Range Extender: Broaden your network connection with a range extender that gives you extra Wi-Fi coverage in your home. Smart LED indicators will direct you to the optimal location to plug the extender into the wall, so you can easily enjoy improved range and speed on your mobile and wired devices. Save on data usage by connecting your smartphone or tablet to your home network.
What is the difference between this Netgear Universal Wi-Fi range extender and the Netgear AC750 Wi-Fi extender?
What is the difference between this Netgear Universal Wi-Fi range extender and the Netgear AC750 Wi-Fi extender?
The Netgear Universal WiFi Range Extender broadcasts the a/b/g/n WiFi standards, while the Netgear AC750 broadcasts the newer ac standard. Most WiFi-ready equipment uses the N standard (or something older), so unless you own a device that's capable of receiving ac wifi signals (and you have a fast enough internet connection that'll let you see the speed difference), you're better off with the Universal (i. e. non-ac) extender. Ac-capable routers still run in the +$100 dollar range, so unless you already own one, it's best to hold off on ac extenders.
9 years, 4 months ago
by
Posted by:
Vespasian
from
Philadelphia, PA