Grouticus's stats
- Review count192
- Helpfulness votes437
- First reviewApril 22, 2016
- Last reviewOctober 28, 2025
- Featured reviews0
- Average rating4.7
Reviews comments
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- Helpfulness votes0
- First review commentNone
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Questions
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- Answer count12
- Helpfulness votes31
- First answerJanuary 25, 2017
- Last answerNovember 14, 2021
- Featured answers0
- Best answers2
Pour wine without removing the cork by using the Coravin Model Two wine system. The durable needle pierces the cork so you can pour, and then the cork reseals when the needle is removed to preserve the remaining wine. This Coravin Model Two wine system comes with two capsules that let you pour up to 30 glasses of wine.
Customer Rating
5
Impeccable craftsmanship in a wine system
on October 6, 2017
Posted by: Grouticus
from Roseville, CA, USA
If you want to throw a fancy gathering and impress your friends with how vested you are in the wine scene, then you’ll definitely have bragging rights with this conversation starter. My wife and I were recently introduced to this wine system while wine tasting in Napa Valley. There were several tasting rooms using them to pour and preserve their expensive bottles of wine. To run this down to you for a better understanding of its purpose, I will attempt to explain in laymen’s terms my understanding of what the wine connoisseurs explained it to us and how it is used. Out of the box I would suggest reading the instructions. Setting the system up simply consists of inserting an argon gas container, two included in the package, into the device (see pictured directions) and removing the protective device located on the needle. The cork stays in the bottle of wine and the Coravin system easily pierces the cork with a needle; just ensure you follow the directions and appropriately seat the device on the cork straight as to prevent damage or bending the needle on the device. Once the needle is inserted, you simply flick the switch at the top of the device to pump small amounts of the gas into the bottle which then pushes the wine through to the device’s pourer and into your glass. The argon gas displaces the wine and the device itself provides an air tight seal in an effort to prevent oxidation and prevent the wine from spoiling. When you tilt the bottle upright after pouring, the system automatically stops pouring and disperses the excess gas. The system is very simple to set up and use by following the picture directions provided and is also very ergonomic. I could also feel the great craftsmanship and materials they used to design this masterpiece. This is definitely the highest quality wine pouring and preserving device I have ever come across however that is also reflected in the price, the only thing that may turn some of you off at first glance. Whoever designed this was definitely serious about their wines. If you are serious about your delicious and expensive bottles of wine and don’t polish off a good bottle in one sitting, this may be the perfect wine system for you.
My Best Buy number: 0568279474
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Protect your iPhone's data with this 64GB iXpand charger and backup base. It charges your iPhone quickly with 15W of power, and it backs up photos and videos as it charges to ensure precious memories are always safe. This iXpand charger and backup base also backs up your stored contacts, so you can restore them when needed.
Customer Rating
2
Years behind today's technology
on October 5, 2017
Posted by: Grouticus
from Roseville, CA, USA
We now live in a world of wireless and AI everything therefore why would anyone opt to take one step backwards in the forward progress technology is taking? That’s the question I would like to ask SanDisk when they developed the iExpand Base. There have been products on the market for years, including cloud services and in home wireless storage hubs, which will back up your data, photos, contacts, etc. The other question I would like to ask is if you are going to sell a wired data hub that charges, and at this price point, why would you not include the required firewire cable? And, why not at least give it wireless charging capabilities since everyone already heard rumors of wireless charging before the release of the new line of iPhones. Wait, one more question, why make this just for Apple products and not other phones/tablets as well since there are actually more of them out there??? The whole concept behind this product is just confusing in this day and age. If this came out four years ago, maybe we would have something to brag about. However, I will say its ease of set up, immediate pairing with your device, including routing you to the app store to download the necessary application, was very quick and painless and within minutes started storing the thousands of photos on my device. For me, this product is just piece of mind that your data is stored locally for privacy and back up concerns. The cradle/base itself acts as a decent setting station for your phone, probably not so much for the ipad though, and also charges fairly quickly. I suppose all the things it lacks leaves room for an eventual updated base I suggest include wireless charging and wireless data transfer… there’s always next time, right? My suggestion would be to at least be up to par with today's technology and perhaps even come up with something a little more revolutionary.
My Best Buy number: 0568279474
Mobile Submission: False
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
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Prepare healthier dishes with this DeLonghi Multifry low-oil fryer and multicooker. It lets you enjoy your favorite fried recipes with less fat and without deep-frying, and its automatic mixing paddle does the stirring for you. The surround heating system of this 60-oz. DeLonghi Multifry low-oil fryer and multicooker provides even cooking.
Customer Rating
4
Great healthy food frying option
on July 27, 2017
Posted by: Grouticus
Delonghi has done a great job designing this MultiFry machine and covers just about everything you need to start experimenting with frying with less oil. The box even includes a cookbook, in English and Spanish, with several options for veggies, potatoes, pastas, meats, and several other delicious looking dishes including pizza which I can't wait to try. So far I have only experimented with vegetables and love the convenience with using much less oil than I normally would. It was fairly simple to set up and start cooking and very easy clean up. The automatic stirring arm comes in handy as it stirs your dish while cooking so it prevents burning and evenly cooks and seasons. It also has a built in timer that you can remove from the machine itself and take with you. There is also a button for simmering prior to putting your ingredients in the pot. I would recommend this to anyone in the market for a fryer and prefers the healthier options when cooking because of it's ease of use and clean up, not to add it makes delicious dishes! It is a little bulky for storage, about the size of a crock pot, so make sure you have room to store it before you make the commitment.
My Best Buy number: 0568279474
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Share with your family, friends or an entire class with this Epson Home Cinema 4000 projector. The 2,200-lumens projector throws clear images that can be seen from around the room, and 4K enhancement brings each graphic to life. This Epson Home Cinema 4000 projector has two HDMI ports for connecting a computer or other device.
Customer Rating
5
Amazing picture quality
on June 21, 2017
Posted by: Grouticus
Going from a standard 1080p projector to the Epson Home Cinema 4000 with 4k enhancement and high dynamic range (HDR) was such a noticeable upgrade in picture quality that no avid home theater connoisseur on a budget and trying to avoid the prices of full 4k projectors should even think twice about. The picture is incredibly clear using a HD source, such as a gaming console or streaming stick, displayed on a matte white 100" screen. The 2200 lumens are enough to watch anything on it with lights on or windows uncovered. The on-screen user interface/menu for settings was very easy to use and tune to whatever you have displayed. It has two HDMI inputs as well as an optical HDMI 300mA connection, a USB, LAN and PC connection. It has a motorized lens and shutter that opens and closes when in use. One drawback is there is no on-board speaker for sound which I actually was using on my last projector. The projector itself is quite large and heavy however you would also sacrifice quality for size therefore this is a higher end projector compared to the more compact portable types; this should be mounted on the ceiling because forget about moving it around or traveling with it. The remote somehow automatically paired to the streaming stick I plugged in which was a pleasant surprise; I'm not sure what other specific devices this would work on. I also had to use a HDMI splitter in order to hook more HDMI sources up to it but most receivers have that option now. I would recommend this to anyone in the market for a home theater projector because you definitely shouldn't regret it, you definitely get what you pay for.
My Best Buy number: 0568279474
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Only at Best BuyWatch movies and TV shows anywhere on this 12-inch Samsung Galaxy Book 2-in-1 tablet. It has a Super AMOLED display that supports 4K resolution to replicate the movie theater experience, and its S Pen provides precision in creative projects. This Samsung Galaxy Book 2-in-1 tablet has a battery life of up to 10.5 hours.
Customer Rating
4
Good 2-in-1 tablet/laptop competitor
on May 29, 2017
Posted by: Grouticus
Samsung’s latest attempt with the Galaxy Book as a direct competitor in the “pro style” 2-in-1 tablet/laptop competition does a few things right but hasn’t gone without some noticeable technical issues. First of all, the hardware itself is everything you would expect from Samsung including a beautiful screen, light weight tablet, decent mid-range specs including the latest Intel 7th generation i5 processor, 4 GB RAM, 128 GB of internal SSD memory paired with a micro SD slot for expansion, two USB C ports, full Windows 10 and the ability to link easily with other Samsung devices keeps it in line with what’s currently in the market. Given those specs, the tablet is reasonably fast and responsive and is great for multitasking. However, it doesn’t do much to set itself aside from the competition or make a name for itself in this field. One thing did right, which others should take note of, is offering the keyboard and pen with the device. I also wanted to note that the pen does not need to be charged and works great with drawing apps or general use of the tablet and Windows OS. However, for those that don’t have use for either the keyboard or pen make want to consider other options as this also brings the price up over some of the competition; I feel both options are almost necessary at this point with using a tablet style device with Windows 10 since the screen and font size can be hard to view and select certain options with your fingers. After playing with the device and performing the numerous updates you’ll need to do after set up to ensure you’re up to date and protected, which also require quite a bit of time to set aside and resetting the device, I did experience several issues within the first couple days of use; the main one being its ability to wake itself back up out of sleep mode or letting the device sit idle. At one point, I thought the tablet was a lemon because it wouldn’t respond to anything I did, any buttons I pushed, wouldn’t show that it was charging when plugged in (no charge light) and had a black screen. I eventually noticed the internal fan was still running, which is very quiet I might add, and decided to try to hold the power button down for about 10 seconds. The fan eventually turned off and I was able to reboot which fixed the issue. I don’t necessarily want to knock Samsung for this is as it may have been a compatibility or OS issue. The other issue I had, which may also have been an OS issue, was it stopped being able to connect to my wifi when my other devices worked just fine. I eventually had to forget the networks, reset the wifi and that fixed the issue. Those were the main issues in just the few days that I’ve had the device. The battery life is decent as long as you don’t let it sit idle and ensure you put it in sleep mode or shut it down when not in use and it charges fairly quick using the USB type C charger included. The front and rear cameras are functional but I wouldn’t rely on them to use as your main camera(s) and work well for video chat or conferencing. The included removable keyboard and case function well in different positions and as a protector for the device and even includes a sling for the included pen. All my other Bluetooth devices paired easily as well.
I’ve rated the device based mostly on the hardware, the beautiful screen, keyboard and pen and functionality and not because of the issues I had because I’ve experienced similar issues using Windows on other devices. What I would suggest is that if you’re in the market for a 2-in-1 make sure you’re familiar with the OS and how to troubleshoot some issues otherwise you may find yourself frustrated. Samsung has done a decent job with its first attempt at a pro style 2-in-1 but didn’t give consumers many options to choose from like more RAM, more hard drive space or a better processor but it’s a good starting point for them with room for improvement and perhaps an edgeless display?? The Galaxy Book may be a great starter option for some in the market since Samsung has made most of the spec decisions for you, especially for those that aren’t too tech savvy or are Samsung loyalists. I also want to add that when comparing prices make sure you keep in mind that the keyboard and pen are included which would easily set you aside an additional $200+ if purchased separately.
I’ve rated the device based mostly on the hardware, the beautiful screen, keyboard and pen and functionality and not because of the issues I had because I’ve experienced similar issues using Windows on other devices. What I would suggest is that if you’re in the market for a 2-in-1 make sure you’re familiar with the OS and how to troubleshoot some issues otherwise you may find yourself frustrated. Samsung has done a decent job with its first attempt at a pro style 2-in-1 but didn’t give consumers many options to choose from like more RAM, more hard drive space or a better processor but it’s a good starting point for them with room for improvement and perhaps an edgeless display?? The Galaxy Book may be a great starter option for some in the market since Samsung has made most of the spec decisions for you, especially for those that aren’t too tech savvy or are Samsung loyalists. I also want to add that when comparing prices make sure you keep in mind that the keyboard and pen are included which would easily set you aside an additional $200+ if purchased separately.
My Best Buy number: 0568279474
I would recommend this to a friend!
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This Oral-B Pro 6000 electric toothbrush with Bluetooth allows the brush to connect with your smartphone to give you real-time feedback on your brushing habits. The advanced design of the CrossAction toothbrush head surrounds each tooth with bristles angled at 16 degrees, and 3D cleaning action oscillates, rotates, and pulsates to break up and remove more plaque. The pressure sensor lights up, if you brush too hard to prevent harmful over-brushing and there are 5 modes and a timer to help you brush for a dentist-recommended time.
Customer Rating
5
Flagship toothbrush defined
on May 9, 2017
Posted by: Grouticus
The latest Oral B 6000 toothbrush has more bells and whistles than any of its predecessors, more than I know what to do with. The first thing I noticed is it feels lighter and easier to hold than previous models. This paired with what appears to be a longer lasting battery is a great combination that needed to be upgraded. I do feel the brush speed has been perfected and the brush head included in the package is just the right softness and shape. The rest of the upgrades in the new model are merely to sugar coat the top of line model with a ton of extras including what is contained on the application that you can pair the Bluetooth enabled toothbrush. Once paired with the app, you can adjust the light on the brush itself which can be really bright until you change it to a more soothing color of choice; so bright that you could use it to your advantage if you ever have the need to brush in the pitch dark and light a room up for that matter. The brush has several different speed and brush settings that I feel are mostly for show because why does anyone really need your brush speed to fluctuate so many different ways besides off and on? The app does feature many useful tools including a timer which also tracks the time you spend on each zone in your mouth, a reminder for brushing your tongue, flossing and rinsing with mouthwash. It also can help you find a dentist and gives you great recommendations on how to keep your mouth and teeth in tip top shape. I will say that they have made a definite improvement from the prior
and lower models and there’s not a tooth brush I have ever used that compares to this flagship model. I would definitely recommend this to anyone in the market for the best of the best toothbrush on the market however it may be difficult to justify the price point unless
it guaranteed no more trips to the dentist.
and lower models and there’s not a tooth brush I have ever used that compares to this flagship model. I would definitely recommend this to anyone in the market for the best of the best toothbrush on the market however it may be difficult to justify the price point unless
it guaranteed no more trips to the dentist.
My Best Buy number: 0568279474
Mobile Submission: True
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Adjust lighting levels easily with this universal Belkin Wemo Wi-Fi smart dimmer switch. It lets you schedule operations and set timer rules via the Wemo app, and it works with any dimmable LED, CFL or incandescent light bulb. This universal Belkin Wemo Wi-Fi smart dimmer switch is compatible with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa voice control, and requires no hub for easy installation.
Customer Rating
4
Works good after issues with set up
on May 6, 2017
Posted by: Grouticus
The installation was fairly simple if you have any knowledge of wiring a light switch with four wires, load, line, ground and neutral. I am using it with dimmable LED lights in a chandelier. Once the switch was wired I had some issues with the pairing of the switch using the Wemo application as it wasn't recognizing it at first. After about 20 minutes troubleshooting, resetting everything and reconnecting the switch via wifi, I was up and running. I was able to pair the application and the switch through my Alexa and can now control the light with my voice; it even allows you to dim the light with your voice. The switch is aesthetically pleasing however it does stick out a little bit but not any more than any standard light switch. It acts like a touch panel and you dim the light with the swipe of your finger. There are a few reset and reboot buttons under the switch which came in handy when troubleshooting. I would recommend this to anyone in the market for a wifi and voice controlled dimmer switch for lights.
My Best Buy number: 0568279474
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Keep your SoundLink Revolve or Revolve+ Bluetooth speaker charged and ready to go, with the SoundLink Revolve charging dock. It~s a convenient home base for your speaker, and you can play your music while it charges. Just plug the wall charger included with your speaker into the cradle. Available in Black.
Customer Rating
3
Nice accessory but optional
on April 6, 2017
Posted by: Grouticus
The Bose Soundlink Revolve speaker fits nicely into the optional charging cradle and is convenient for grab and go sound but is not necessary for operation of the speaker itself. Honestly I think the charging cradle should've came with the speaker and not separate because as far as I know it doesn't serve any other purpose.
My Best Buy number: 0568279474
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
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Deep. Loud. And immersive, too. The SoundLink Revolve Portable Bluetooth speaker delivers true 360~ sound for consistent, uniform coverage. Place it in the center of the room to give everyone the same experience. Or set it near a wall so sound radiates and reflects. This wireless speaker is durable, water-resistant and easy to grab and go - with a rechargeable battery that plays up to 12 hours.
Customer Rating
3
Just another wireless bluetooth speaker
on April 6, 2017
Posted by: Grouticus
I had high hopes going into this so maybe my expectations were a little high considering this speaker was a Bose product. After unpackaging it, I initially noticed the small size of the speaker. It was very simple to set up and pair to my phone after plugging it in. A voice prompts you on what to do just like most newer Bluetooth speakers made by well known manufacturers. After pairing it I decided to give it a whirl and see what kind of sound it would produce. I have to say that I was not impressed; the low level sound that most Bose products are known to produce was not there and at high levels the sound was distorted. I listened to everything from soft rock, to EDM to hip hop to see if I experienced the same issues and I did. The speaker is convenient to unplug and move about. The sound does fill a small room since it does have directional speakers facing every direction and because of it's small size and mobility is great for outdoors, just don't expect to impress your guests at a party with it. I assumed Bose would jump on the AI bandwagon with it's latest technology to keep up with the competitors but that is not the case as this is just another wireless Bluetooth speaker. If you are in the market for one that is portable, chargeable and produces decent sound then this may be for you although at a Bose price point I would suggest shopping around.
My Best Buy number: 0568279474
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
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Deep clean your carpets with this practical Dyson Ball Multi Floor vacuum, which comes with a self-adjusting cleaner head for great results on a range of floors. With a generous 30-foot cord length, this unit easily travels through large rooms and up stairs. The Dyson Ball Multi Floor vacuum~s HEPA filtration system makes it ideal for commercial or residential use.
Customer Rating
5
Improvement on near perfection
on March 14, 2017
Posted by: Grouticus
I've owned a Dyson vacuum for several years and have sworn by their vacuums ever since I switched from alternative makes. Their Ball Multi Floor 2 has improved on just about every account. I was able to assemble it fairly quickly with about four main steps once you get it out of the box. You can feel the improvement in the power immediately, however you can hear it as well as it seems to be a bit louder than the prior version. I believe the cleaning power and versatility makes up for the noise. The extension cord is longer than the prior model, long enough to reach most standard room areas without having to search for another outlet which I had to do previously. The attachments fit neatly on the side of the unit without getting in the way and are useful on stairs and other tight or out of reach places. The canister is larger than the previous model and is just as easy to take off and clean. The ball mobility is great when steering the vacuum. This new version also has a button that you can turn the spinning brush off which helps when going over small rugs so they don't get sucked up and roll around the spinning brush. If something catches on the spinning brush, it was as simple as pulling it out after turning the vacuum off and then it was right back up and running after I turned it back on; no need to reset the spinning brush. My only question would be can a vacuum be too powerful? It did leave substantial lines on one of our area rugs that eventually came out with some traffic. It almost felt as if the vacuum suction cupped to the rug itself, which I suppose was the intent to suck out all of the dirt the prior model couldn't get too. I would definitely recommend this to anyone in the market for a vacuum and consider it a long term investment because you won't have to replace it for years assuming you take care of it.
My Best Buy number: 0568279474
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Clean your home with voice command or app-based programs by using this Samsung robot vacuum. Its digital camera and nine sensors let it find its way around, avoiding obstacles and mapping the most efficient path through your home. Wi-Fi connects this powerful Samsung robot vacuum to your smart home systems.
Can this robot machine vacuum carpet for one hour?
Yes, from my experience with a new machine and battery, it appears to be able to vacuum for about an hour before having to dock and charge.
7 years, 5 months ago
by
Grouticus
Enjoy your music while training with these Under Armour wireless headphones. These audio devices are sweat proof and have TwistLock technology to keep the earpieces in place through any workout. Designed by JBL, these Under Armour wireless headphones meet the highest audio standards and provide up to 8 hours of battery life to last many workouts.
Do they have a microphone and can the microphone be worn in either ear
They have a microphone on the power/volume control piece that is part of the wire and hangs closer to the right ear bud side, not in the ear bud itself.
8 years, 9 months ago
by
Grouticus