abl001's stats
- Review count114
- Helpfulness votes523
- First reviewDecember 5, 2014
- Last reviewNovember 4, 2019
- Featured reviews0
- Average rating4.3
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- Answer count20
- Helpfulness votes49
- First answerDecember 5, 2014
- Last answerMay 27, 2019
- Featured answers0
- Best answers6
Produce professional-quality foods easily and fast with this BELLA Pro 3.5-qt. black manual air fryer. The 2.8-lb.capacity lets you create large meals, while the dishwasher-safe tray and pan make cleanup simple. This BELLA Pro 3.5-qt. black manual air fryer has Circular Heat Technology for even cooking and crisp results without needing oil.
Customer Rating
5
Great Entry Level Air Fryer
on November 4, 2019
Posted by: abl001
from Memphis, TN
The Bella Pro Series 3.5qt Air Fryer isn't going to cause guests to buzz around it nor will it likely be that coveted new gadget that someone wants, but I don't think that's a bad thing. It's easy to use, compact, and easy to clean up. It doesn't have all the bells and whistles, but it gets the job done at a VERY appealing price.
OUT OF THE BOX/BUILD QUALITY/SETUP
The Bella Pro Series comes nicely packaged, but nothing spectacular. Setup is easy. Unbox, wash the tray and basket, plug in, go!
The Bella Pro Series comes nicely packaged, but nothing spectacular. Setup is easy. Unbox, wash the tray and basket, plug in, go!
Best Buy currently has this priced at $39.99 which is certainly a bargain. That being said, you get what you pay for. Does this feel/look cheap? Eh. It certainly doesn't look/feel like a high end/premium kitchen appliance. It also doesn't look like you got it out of the super bargain bin.
FEATURES/USE
When I said the Bella Pro Series doesn't have all the bells and whistles, I meant it. It has a bell that lets you know when the timer (turn style dial) is up. Think the bell that you ring on a counter when you want service or some microwave from the 70s. No digital beep or alert. Just a simple ding! The only other setting aside from the timer is the temperature (also a turn style dial). A simple light lets you know that the internal temperature has reached the desired level. From there, add your food and go.
When I said the Bella Pro Series doesn't have all the bells and whistles, I meant it. It has a bell that lets you know when the timer (turn style dial) is up. Think the bell that you ring on a counter when you want service or some microwave from the 70s. No digital beep or alert. Just a simple ding! The only other setting aside from the timer is the temperature (also a turn style dial). A simple light lets you know that the internal temperature has reached the desired level. From there, add your food and go.
I found this to be a lot easier to use than my much higher end all in one type cooker. Results were similar and cleanup was a bit easier! Air frying is super easy for anyone who is new to it and it can really revolutionize the way you prepare meals. No oil is needed, but I frequently do use a little oil just for flavor and to help seasoning stick. The Bella Pro Series includes a cooking chart, but I recommend (as do the instructions) checking at least halfway through your cooking cycle and shake/stir the contents. This will help ensure even cooking. Also, don't be afraid to deviate from the cooking recommendations. If it looks done, it probably is! This is especially true when cooking frozen foods as I've found they can be particularly tricky. I would always recommend cooking meats fresh.
CONCLUSION
This is a great entry level air fryer that really does exactly the same thing as much more expensive models. I would love some more modern features (like a digital timer), updated alert when done, etc. But, at the end of the day, all that matters is how easy it makes your cooking routine and whether or not the food is good. This does both.
This is a great entry level air fryer that really does exactly the same thing as much more expensive models. I would love some more modern features (like a digital timer), updated alert when done, etc. But, at the end of the day, all that matters is how easy it makes your cooking routine and whether or not the food is good. This does both.
PROS:
*Simplicity
*Cost
*Ease of Use
*Size
*Price
*Simplicity
*Cost
*Ease of Use
*Size
*Price
CONS:
*Could be of higher quality
*No digital timer
*Alert when done just sounds cheap
*Could be of higher quality
*No digital timer
*Alert when done just sounds cheap
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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1of 1voted this as helpful.
Take the guesswork out of the equation with this Breville the Smooth Wave microwave. Sensor iQ technology monitors the amount of steam produced during the cooking process and automatically adjusts the power level, preventing overcooked and burned food. This Breville the Smooth Wave microwave features 15 smart presets for one-touch operation, and the soft-close door helps avoid loud slams.
Customer Rating
5
Take Microwaving to a Whole New Level
on November 2, 2019
Posted by: abl001
from Memphis, TN
The Breville Smooth Wave microwave eliminates a lot of the frustrations associated with current basic microwaves. If that wasn't enough, it does it with style and class.
OUT OF THE BOX/BUILD QUALITY
The Smooth Wave arrived in a fairly unremarkable brown shipping box. Unpacking was easy. Everything on this microwave looks and feels like a high-end product. The stainless steel finish is modern and easy to clean up. Setup can be as easy as plugging it in and setting the time, but I highly recommend giving the manual a quick scan so that you familiarize yourself with all the features of the Smooth Wave. If you don't use the features, you'll have a very nice looking microwave, but one that doesn't do much/anymore than your previous microwave.
The Smooth Wave arrived in a fairly unremarkable brown shipping box. Unpacking was easy. Everything on this microwave looks and feels like a high-end product. The stainless steel finish is modern and easy to clean up. Setup can be as easy as plugging it in and setting the time, but I highly recommend giving the manual a quick scan so that you familiarize yourself with all the features of the Smooth Wave. If you don't use the features, you'll have a very nice looking microwave, but one that doesn't do much/anymore than your previous microwave.
FEATURES
The most notable feature of the Smooth Wave is the Sensor iQ feature which monitors the amount of steam and automatically adjusts power and time to ensure food is cooked, reheated, or thawed to ensure your food turns out just like you want it. The beautiful light blue LCD display is expansive and provides so much more information than the standard one line display on most microwaves. What's great is that you can watch the Smooth Wave adjust the power level throughout the process based on the continual Sensor iQ data.
The most notable feature of the Smooth Wave is the Sensor iQ feature which monitors the amount of steam and automatically adjusts power and time to ensure food is cooked, reheated, or thawed to ensure your food turns out just like you want it. The beautiful light blue LCD display is expansive and provides so much more information than the standard one line display on most microwaves. What's great is that you can watch the Smooth Wave adjust the power level throughout the process based on the continual Sensor iQ data.
Inside the door, you'll find a variety of pre-programmed settings like melting butter, popcorn, etc. Yes, I said inside the door. It's quite odd placement, but you get used to it pretty quickly and it helps to minimize the clutter on the face of the microwave.
Another great feature that is so appreciated is the soft-close mechanism. If you're not familiar, think of cabinet doors/drawers that when you close them, they have a mechanism that prevents the doors/drawers from slamming. The Smooth Wave has a similar feature which eliminates that abrasive sound of a cheap microwave door slamming...even though you didn't slam it. I love this!
The display on this microwave is light blue except when cooking when it is a pleasant shade of amber. I mentioned the expansive display which allows you to set a wide variety of food types and quantities/sizes in words that are actually spelled out and not scrolled on some old one-line display. Additionally, you can determine whether you prefer the classic "beep" to indicate food is done or a much more pleasant chime. This is such a small thing, but so appreciated by people like me.
RESULTS
I must say, most microwaves get the presets all wrong. Defrost never defrosts...Reheat over cooks...And the preset food options are all over the place. The Breville hits the mark on all of these thanks to sensors and fine tuning input by the user. Also, this microwave is so quiet which such a nice change over my current microwave which is loud.
I must say, most microwaves get the presets all wrong. Defrost never defrosts...Reheat over cooks...And the preset food options are all over the place. The Breville hits the mark on all of these thanks to sensors and fine tuning input by the user. Also, this microwave is so quiet which such a nice change over my current microwave which is loud.
CONCLUSION
I can't say enough good things about this microwave. It looks great, cooks great, and will make your time in the kitchen more productive and enjoyable.
I can't say enough good things about this microwave. It looks great, cooks great, and will make your time in the kitchen more productive and enjoyable.
PROS:
-Design/style
-Build quality
-Features
-Cooking quality
-Display
-Sensor iQ
-Design/style
-Build quality
-Features
-Cooking quality
-Display
-Sensor iQ
Cons:
-Price may deter people
-Isn't mountable under cabinet
-Price may deter people
-Isn't mountable under cabinet
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+2points
2of 2voted this as helpful.
Increase precision with this Lexip ceramic glide feet mouse upgrade kit. A set of six ceramic pads let your mouse glide easily for improved accuracy and help extend the lifetime of your mouse by reducing wear and tear. This Lexip ceramic glide feet mouse upgrade kit includes stickers and alcoholic wipes for thorough pre-application cleaning.
Customer Rating
5
Great Upgrade for Your Mouse
on October 25, 2019
Posted by: abl001
from Memphis, TN
The Lexip ceramic glide feet are an easy, quick, and major upgrade for your current mouse.
Included are six ceramic glide feet which Lexip recommends placing two toward the front, two toward the outside middle, and two toward the back of your mouse. I found that I only needed four for my work mouse as my mouse at home (Lexip Pu94) included the glide feet already and made it a pleasure to use. I recommend being very careful when removing/applying the 3M adhesive dots. A tool like a flat head screw driver helped me a lot and I avoided the inevitable misplacement due to fat fingers. Also, be sure to attach the adhesive to the FLAT side of the ceramic feed or they have very little use.
In conclusion, these are a great upgrade to an old mouse that will make it feel like a brand new piece of technology as it glides effortlessly across your desk.
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Bring the party to your patio with this Sonance two-channel outdoor streaming music system. Combining a 1" cloth dome tweeter with a 6.5" glass fiber cone woofer, the cabinet speaker delivers accurate audio across the range from deep bass to mid-level and treble with a frequency response between 65Hz - 30kHz. This Sonance two-channel outdoor streaming music system is compatible with iOS and is easy to manage with the included xPRESS audio keypad for Sonos.
Customer Rating
5
Amazing and Rich Sound
on October 25, 2019
Posted by: abl001
from Memphis, TN
The Sonance 2-Ch outdoor streaming music system is essentially two high quality Sonance speakers connected (wired) to a Sonos amp which can connect (via WiFi) to the many different streaming services and allows you to stream via a service of from your media library from your phone. So to be clear, the speakers must be wired (not included) directly to the amp. However, the amp and streaming can be done wireless from your phone or the included iPort audio keypad.
OUT OF THE BOX/BUILD QUALITY:
My system arrived in a very box that had seen better days and I was a little worried that the contents might have been damaged. You may not realize it, but not all boxes are made to be be shipped and most will have specific designations on them indicating as such. This box is definitely not made to be shipped. More likely, multiple units of this system would be packaged in a larger, more sturdy box that can handle the abuse of shipping. Thankfully, there was no damage to the components of the system.
My system arrived in a very box that had seen better days and I was a little worried that the contents might have been damaged. You may not realize it, but not all boxes are made to be be shipped and most will have specific designations on them indicating as such. This box is definitely not made to be shipped. More likely, multiple units of this system would be packaged in a larger, more sturdy box that can handle the abuse of shipping. Thankfully, there was no damage to the components of the system.
You can tell by the feel and weight and feel of the speakers that they are premium quality. I'm not a fan of white on any kind of technology since it has a tendency to oxidize (turn yellow) or just get dirty. I would've preferred black since it is timeless in my opinion and doesn't show age nearly as bad as white. Black would have also matched the included Sonos amp which is not weatherproofed so it must be kept inside or in a weather controlled area. I would recommend inside to minimize damage that extreme temperatures might cause on the components.
SETUP:
Instructions on setup and mounting were included and I found them to be sufficient enough to mount the speakers on my parents patio. Some quick wire placement and I had it connected to the amp in no time (after the mounting bit). Setup of the amp was effortless and unlike many companion apps that I've had the displeasure of reviewing, the Sonos app is actually easy to use and functional. The iPort audio keypad seems a bit redundant since functions are controlled via your phone, but I can see where some people would find it useful. I think it'll end up my 'odds and ends/ draw where things go to get lost.
Instructions on setup and mounting were included and I found them to be sufficient enough to mount the speakers on my parents patio. Some quick wire placement and I had it connected to the amp in no time (after the mounting bit). Setup of the amp was effortless and unlike many companion apps that I've had the displeasure of reviewing, the Sonos app is actually easy to use and functional. The iPort audio keypad seems a bit redundant since functions are controlled via your phone, but I can see where some people would find it useful. I think it'll end up my 'odds and ends/ draw where things go to get lost.
SOUND QUALITY:
I'm a huge fan of quality over quantity as far as sound goes. I would much rather feel effortlessly immersed in the audio and enveloped in it's quality than be blown away by volume. These speakers do just that AND they also pack quite a punch as far as volume. They are meant for large outdoor spaces so that makes sense. However, we've all heard the tinny, flat, and sometimes distorted sounds produced by some outdoor speakers...You won't get ANY of that with the Sonance speakers. You hear all of the highs, all of the lows, and everything in between. Yes, the speakers are at a premium price point, but they are so worth it as they can completely change how you experience music outdoors. Music is no longer background noise, it becomes a complimentary part of the atmosphere and can transport you to places far away depending on what you are listening to. Obviously, I'm very impressed and I'm sure you will be too.
I'm a huge fan of quality over quantity as far as sound goes. I would much rather feel effortlessly immersed in the audio and enveloped in it's quality than be blown away by volume. These speakers do just that AND they also pack quite a punch as far as volume. They are meant for large outdoor spaces so that makes sense. However, we've all heard the tinny, flat, and sometimes distorted sounds produced by some outdoor speakers...You won't get ANY of that with the Sonance speakers. You hear all of the highs, all of the lows, and everything in between. Yes, the speakers are at a premium price point, but they are so worth it as they can completely change how you experience music outdoors. Music is no longer background noise, it becomes a complimentary part of the atmosphere and can transport you to places far away depending on what you are listening to. Obviously, I'm very impressed and I'm sure you will be too.
Pros:
Ease of setup/connection
Wide variety of music streaming choices--including your own music library from your phone.
Build quality
Sound quality
Ease of setup/connection
Wide variety of music streaming choices--including your own music library from your phone.
Build quality
Sound quality
Cons:
White color speakers (personal preference, but will likely show age over time)
Price could be a deterrent for some, but good sound is worth every penny you pay!
System arrived in a box that did not hold up well during shipping.
White color speakers (personal preference, but will likely show age over time)
Price could be a deterrent for some, but good sound is worth every penny you pay!
System arrived in a box that did not hold up well during shipping.
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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3of 4voted this as helpful.
Philips 3200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine w/ Milk Frother
Customer Rating
4
Premium Brews at a Premium Price
on October 20, 2019
Posted by: abl001
from Memphis, TN
The Philips Espresso 3200 Series w/ LatteGo does more than just espresso and lattes and in a very easy to use, compact design.
Out of the box, the Philips 3200 comes nicely packaged with a rather innovative packaging technique that no longer requires you to empty the box upside down or shimmy a product out which can be frustrating. You simply grab the wrap around sling and pull it out of the top without any complicated moved. Once unpacked, you'll notice how compact the Philips 3200 is. This was a pleasant and great surprise as some of these machines can be quite large. It's also pretty light in comparison to some high-end machines I've used before. This seems to have been achieved by using less metal and more plastic. While I'm glad it's lighter and it does still seem very nicely made of good quality, I'm hopeful it holds up to the test of time.
Getting setup wasn't too complicated, but also is much easier if you use the manufacturer YouTube videos online. Take my word and skip the less helpful quick start guide/pictogram (included). The videos also include important maintenance information which isn't in the included setup guide. I was able to begin brewing my first cup about 13 minutes after opening the box.
Once I had everything setup, I filled the water reservoir and the bean container with my favorite dark roast beans (any coffee beans are acceptable, but they do not recommend flavored coffee). You can use whole beans since this machine includes a grinder or pre-ground coffee which is a nice feature if you have family/guests with difference coffee preferences. I was pleased with the size of both the water reservoir and the bean container as the water should last me more than a week! It also includes a water filter which contributes to a better cup of espresso/coffee. Depending on the type of drink you are making, you may also want to put some milk in the frother which is conveniently detached and stored in the refrigerator if you have leftovers.
Once you have everything loaded up, it's just a matter of pushing some pretty self-explanatory buttons and then a play (start) button. First, you select your desired beverage. Second, you select the brew strength. Third, you select the size of your cup (more on this in a minute). Finally, you select the amount of froth that you would like IF applicable to your type of beverage. Press the play/start button and it goes to work. I always love hearing beans grind in a machine like this rather than in my standalone grinder. Then you hear all of the internal workings and out comes a perfectly brewed beverage. My espresso was fantastic! Regular Americano was also extremely satisfying and far surpasses my current $150 coffee maker. One thing I recommend experimenting with is the size of your beverage. This is always a tricky feature on any machine as there doesn't seem to be any standard setting that is uniform across manufacturers. This has led me to either have my cup with very little coffee or nearly overfilling the cup! So, it can be a trial and error situation and the stop button will help with any potential overflows. The frother is noisy, but that's to be expected and overall, this machine is quieter than others and than what I expected. If you're a big froth lover, you'll love how easy the cleanup is. Having experience with previous similar machines, cleanup of the frothing unit can be a major hassle with the tubes and buildup. The Philips 3200 avoids all of that with an ingenious design. It's as simple as rinsing and wiping!
The YouTube videos I mentioned earlier recommend some pretty frequent (monthly) maintenance of the grinding unit. Given this is my first machine with a built in grinder, I am not looking forward to this and hope that I remember to do it regularly. I may continue to grind my own beans rather than use the built-in grinder to minimize the required maintenance. However, I really do like the idea of very fresh ground beans so maybe I'll just set a recurring reminder to do this so I get the maximum use of this machine.
In conclusion, I am really enjoying the Philips 3200. It's hard to explain how much more sensual and pleasing a cup of coffee or well brewed espresso can be over your average drip coffee maker. It's also satisfying knowing that you're saving $5/cup over the coffee shop. It's easy to see how this machine could end up saving you money over the long term. All of that aside, it is SURE to elevate your morning routine to a new level.
Pros:
*Quality of the brew
*Size of the water reservoir
*Ease of use
*Frother design
*Easy cleanup of coffee grinds, frother, and drip tray
*Compact size/light weight
*Quality of the brew
*Size of the water reservoir
*Ease of use
*Frother design
*Easy cleanup of coffee grinds, frother, and drip tray
*Compact size/light weight
Cons:
*More plastic than metal
*Price (This is typical of a high-end machine like this with all of these features. It could also end up saving you money, but you'll need to evaluate that on your own)
*Unclear exact size of beverage settings
*More plastic than metal
*Price (This is typical of a high-end machine like this with all of these features. It could also end up saving you money, but you'll need to evaluate that on your own)
*Unclear exact size of beverage settings
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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6of 8voted this as helpful.
Take out your enemies with sharp accuracy by using this Lexip Pu94 wired gaming mouse. The ergonomic construction provides a comfortable grip during marathon gaming sessions, and the wired design helps ensure low latency. This Lexip Pu94 wired gaming mouse boasts a laser sensor for pin-point precision, and the programmable buttons enable customization.
Customer Rating
4
Potential Winner w/ Big Learning Curve
on October 18, 2019
Posted by: abl001
from Memphis, TN
The Lexip Pu94 was exciting to try and review since it is my first mouse with a built-in joystick. To boot, the Pu94 claims to be two joysticks in one mouse (I'll explain later).
OUT OF THE BOX/FIRST IMPRESSIONS
Out of the box, the Pu94 looks a lot less intimidating than some other gaming mice that I have tried. It has your standard left/right buttons, scroll wheel, and a separate button on the top of the mouse. The left side include the joystick and two buttons. Just underneath the surface lies a programmable RGB LED backlight which can be static or animated. I found the backlight to be enough of an accent without feeling like a laser light show. The mouse has a high quality, soft feel to it. Setup and connection is easy just like you'd expect. One thing I must mention are the typos throughout the control panel app. There is a glaring lack of quality control/proofing there that I hope is corrected. I'm a frequent critic of companion apps that haven't been thoroughly designed. Thankfully, this app is quite functional which begs the question how these oversights happened.
Out of the box, the Pu94 looks a lot less intimidating than some other gaming mice that I have tried. It has your standard left/right buttons, scroll wheel, and a separate button on the top of the mouse. The left side include the joystick and two buttons. Just underneath the surface lies a programmable RGB LED backlight which can be static or animated. I found the backlight to be enough of an accent without feeling like a laser light show. The mouse has a high quality, soft feel to it. Setup and connection is easy just like you'd expect. One thing I must mention are the typos throughout the control panel app. There is a glaring lack of quality control/proofing there that I hope is corrected. I'm a frequent critic of companion apps that haven't been thoroughly designed. Thankfully, this app is quite functional which begs the question how these oversights happened.
FEATURES & USABILITY
First, let me say that as with most gaming mice, most of their functionality comes from the associated software and customizations based on what program you are using. The Pu94 is no different. Download the control Lexip Control Panel, you can adjust the sensitivity, download profiles based on specific games, or just go maverick and do it yourself. Adjusting the sensitivity and "dead zone" are important due to the aforementioned "two joysticks in one device."
First, let me say that as with most gaming mice, most of their functionality comes from the associated software and customizations based on what program you are using. The Pu94 is no different. Download the control Lexip Control Panel, you can adjust the sensitivity, download profiles based on specific games, or just go maverick and do it yourself. Adjusting the sensitivity and "dead zone" are important due to the aforementioned "two joysticks in one device."
The first joystick is obviously on the left panel. This is a great added feature and allows you to do most actions in FPS games from your mouse without the need for the use of a keyboard. But where's the second you might ask? The second is the mouse itself which sits slightly above the base allowing you to tilt forward/backward and side to side. This takes some major getting used to, but can come in very handy in games w/ 360 environments such as flight/space (ST: Online or Ace Combat) or FPS games (Rainbow 6: Siege). I would highly recommend allocating several hours to learning how to best use these features before you inadvertently find your gaze drifting toward the skies as you creep forward toward your target OR taking an unexpected dive after you launch some missiles at that bogey. It's just training your hand and muscles to do things differently than they have in the past.
I have smaller hands so I found that the mouse fits me fine. However, this isn't usually the case and I can see the left joystick being a bit too far forward for some as it makes using the left/right buttons impractical. Like I said, this is fine for me, but maybe not for everyone. Worth checking out because this mouse could be a game changer.
The ceramic glide feet are INCREDIBLY smooth and you really don't realize how clunky your old mouse is until you have one that seems to glide effortlessly across any surface.
CONCLUSION
The Pu94 could be a game changer for you. For me, it's not going to be my every day mouse as I have no need for dual joysticks. That being said, I am working to train my hand to take advantage of the dual joystick capability for games which is the feature that sets this mouse apart IMO.
The Pu94 could be a game changer for you. For me, it's not going to be my every day mouse as I have no need for dual joysticks. That being said, I am working to train my hand to take advantage of the dual joystick capability for games which is the feature that sets this mouse apart IMO.
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Make smoothies or chop food to your desired consistency with this Oster Texture Select Master Series blender. The filler cup lets steam escape when blending hot foods and allows you to add fresh ingredients during use, while a locking seal ring offers leakproof operation. This Oster Texture Select Master Series blender features preset controls for flawless results with the touch of a button.
Customer Rating
4
Great Blender at a Reasonable Price
on October 15, 2019
Posted by: abl001
from Memphis, TN
The Oster Master Series blender comes packaged in a your basic box with cardboard inserts to keep everything situated until you are ready to take it out. Included are the blender base, standard blending pitcher, an on-the-go cup, as well as the user guide.
Upon opening, the base is extremely light and the pitcher's weight is quite substantial. Not unreasonably so, but it's definitely got some heft to it. Immediately, the shine of the brushed nickle caught my eye. It's a bit shiny for me and doesn't match with some of my other appliances with a brushed metal finish, but it still looks nice. The control panel is pretty straight forward with controls that operate the food mode (smoothie or food chop), texture (thin, medium, or thick), pause/stop, plus, and then controls that adjust the speed of the blade. By selecting a food mode and texture, that overrides the blade speed which would really only be used if you were going to do a manual start/stop or pulsing. More on that later. The control panel did feel a little cheap to me. It's a completely flat surface which makes for easy cleanup, but I just felt the buttons lacked a certain high end feel.
The blender operates pretty much like any other blender. I have a VERY VERY old Oster blender (from the 70s or 80s) that still works and has some of the basic options with varying degrees of speed selection. What is nice about this new blender is that you select a food mode, texture, and then the start button and it does the rest. It will automatically run a pre-determined speed and stop intermittently. I found this was a great feature as it allowed items to sink into the mixture so that they can make contact with the blades once it resumes.
I decided to make homemade salsa (first time ever) with the Oster Master Series and wasn't disappointed. I quartered one tomatoes, an onion, threw in a couple of serrano peppers, cilantro, cumin, garlic salt (I got lazy), and some salt/pepper. Using the food chop+thick setting, it did a very good job of getting all of the ingredients consistently chopped and mixed. I made some adjustments to seasoning and added another tomato and repeated. My salsa turned out a bit finer than I intended but that was my fault for not starting off with the right amount of tomato to begin with. In the end, I was extremely pleased with the texture even if it was by accident. The blender was also pretty darn quiet so that was a surprise. You can easily use this blender and hear the TV or continue a conversation while in use.
After using, cleanup was a breeze. I lifted the pitcher from the base and washed in the sink. The pitcher is dishwasher safe so not to worry all of you who despise hand washing items. I haven't decided whether or not to keep the Oster Master Series on my counter or store it away below. It's a lower profile than my previous model from last century so storing on the counter under the cabinets wouldn't be a problem. It's design is also attractive enough that I don't mind showing it off--even if I'm not a fan of the highly polished 'nickle' finish.
In conclusion, I think this is a great blender for the price that you pay. There are many much more expensive models out there if you want more functionality. For my needs and the needs of most people, I think this blender will easily handle whatever you throw into it without breaking the bank.
Pros:
-Light base
-Quiet
-Texture Select
-Blend-n-Go cup
-Good value
-Light base
-Quiet
-Texture Select
-Blend-n-Go cup
-Good value
Cons:
-Somewhat cheap feeling control panel
-Personally, the 'brushed nickle' is too shiny
-Somewhat cheap feeling control panel
-Personally, the 'brushed nickle' is too shiny
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Enjoy powerful sound and a secure fit while training with these Plantronics BackBeat FIT 6100 wireless headphones. The memory foam on the adjustable sport-fit headband and ear cushions adds comfort for all-day use, while the rechargeable battery offers up to 24 hours of usage time on a single charge. These Plantronics BackBeat FIT 6100 wireless headphones have a 65-foot Bluetooth connectivity range that lets you move away from your mobile device freely.
Customer Rating
3
Good Headphones for Sport/General Use
on October 7, 2019
Posted by: abl001
from Memphis, TN
The Plantronics BackBeat FIT 6100 headphones are a pretty good mid-price over-the-ear headphones. They are designed for more sport/activity due to their IPX5 rated water/sweat resistance, but can very easily and comfortably be used for other daily activities.
Out of the box, they are packaged nicely and build quality is nice. They feel like they'll last although I have to say I'm not a huge fan of the design on a purely aesthetic basis. The thin metal pieces that connect headband to the ear pieces make me worry if the headphones were to be sat on or put under some weight, that they might bend. The headphones are surprisingly light which is nice--especially if using during a workout. One BIG negative for me is that they did not come with a carrying case of any kind. Seriously? This makes me even more concerned about the headphones being damaged--especially if you are going to be traveling with these at any point. Battery life is rated at 24 hours. In my testing this is pretty accurate and can be recharged fairly quickly via included SHORT micro-USB cable.
Setup/Connection was very easy. Turned on and immediately entered pairing mode. Before really using these, I would recommend downloading the BackBeat companion app as it will immediately notify you that there is a firmware update needed for the headphones. Once updated, you'll be able to adjust the EQ, ambient awareness, and My Tap (touch control) features.
As far as features go, the My Tap (touch controls) are all located on the right ear cover and can be used to play, pause, skip, answer calls, etc. I have another set of headphones with this same feature and there is inevitably the accidental pause or skip forward due to a brush against your body. Since the outside of the headphone is smooth, it can be pretty hard to know if you're about to pause, skip, rewind, or turn the ambient awareness feature on/off. Some kind of tactile features that would allow the user to know where they were touching might be helpful. The ambient awareness feature is helpful since the over-the-ear design can isolate the wearer even though these aren't noise cancelling. This helps you hear what is going on around you and is especially useful if you are outside and need to be somewhat aware of your surroundings.
As far as sound goes, I would say they are good, but not quite excellent. Pretty good sounds across the range (lows, mids, and highs), but I would appreciate a some more volume. For $180 headphones, they are probably better than you'd expect for an over-the-ear design.
In conclusion, the BackBeat FIT 6100s are a solid pair of headphones that can be used during your workout or at the office. I found them quite comfortable and they stayed in place during moderate activities. Sound quality was good and should get you in the zone. One of my biggest complaints of these headphones is the lack of carrying case which kind of makes them useless for me since I don't like carrying headphones (even $180 ones) around unprotected. Pairing that with my personal dislike of their style, I deducted two stars. These may not be issues for you so to each their own.
Pros:
*Fit/Comfort
*Battery life
*Price
*Fit/Comfort
*Battery life
*Price
Cons:
*Lack of carrying case
*Very sensitive touch controls w/o ability to adjust sensitivity
*Style/Design
*Lack of carrying case
*Very sensitive touch controls w/o ability to adjust sensitivity
*Style/Design
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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2of 2voted this as helpful.
The reliable Brother HL-L3210CW compact digital color printer is a great choice for the busy home or small office. Quick print speeds of up to 19 pages per minute¹ plus manual feed slot accommodates varied printing needs and can handle a variety of paper types and sizes including card stock, envelopes and more. Connect with versatile options including built-in wireless or USB interfaces and print wirelessly from mobile devices. The 250-sheet capacity adjustable paper tray helps improve efficiency with fewer refills and handles letter or legal sized paper. Brother Genuine high-yield replacement toner cartridges help lower printing costs. Comes with a 1-year limited warranty and free online, call or live chat support for the life of your product. Prints up to 19 ppm¹ in black and up to 19 ppm¹ in color.
Customer Rating
3
Good Color Printer, But Rough Around the Edges
on October 2, 2019
Posted by: abl001
from Memphis, TN
The Brother HL-L3210CW is a solid color printer as far as print quality and affordability goes. However, as I'll discuss, it is lacking in some seriously useful features which caused me to drop my rating.
First, this printer is not compact in any shape, form, or fashion. Being a color laser printer, it uses four separate toner cartridges which is ideal since you can replace them individually instead of having to buy a new combined cartridge just because one color is out. These four cartridges take up a lot of space which is why this printer is so big. It's not huge, but it's bigger than your average printer and even some multi-functions. Keep this in mind as you explore your options.
Out of the box, the printer feels solid and well built. Panels open smoothly without feeling too flimsy or delicate. All of that said, the control panel feels like it's straight out of 1999 with it's rubber buttons and one-line monochromatic display. I have an inkjet with color touch screen display that is far more functional and modern than this one. If you need to connect to a WiFI and enter a password, this will take you a while as you scroll through the alphanumeric list one character at a time. What's that? You're just going to connect directly to your computer? Not so fast. They don't include the required USB cable. That cable costs next to nothing so I fail to understand why they aren't included.
Depending on how you plan to connect/use the printer, setup can be quick or take a while. Obviously, USB is the fastest and my Windows 10 computer found it instantly. I still downloaded the latest drivers from the Brother's website instead of using the included CD and recommend you do the same. Connecting the printer to your WiFi will take a while as I explained earlier. Once connected, my computer was able to find it and I was able to use the AirPrint function from my iPhone connected to the same WiFi. Most settings can be configured from the printer settings on your computer. This is good since the Brother iPrint app is clunky and not very useful. I harp on this a lot. If you're going to develop a companion app, actually develop it and do it right! Let's just say, this app didn't take up space on my phone for long.
Once you're up and running, printing is quick, quiet, and quality. I found the blacks and colors to be bright and crisp. Prints are more than sufficient for business uses such as printing graphics, flyers, and marketing material. This printer will print pictures, but I wouldn't recommend it if you are needing high quality prints as it's just not what it is meant for. My inkjet is a photo printer and it does a much better job on pictures--especially with photo paper. One VERY noticeable feature lacking from this printer is it's ability to duplex print. Duplex printing is a cost and time saver. For me, a printer that can't duplex isn't a printer for me.
In conclusion, I will say this printer does a good job for what it is designed to do. It prints good to great quality texts with basic graphics. It's quiet. It's fast. However, there are some big drawbacks (the control panel on the printer itself) and the lack of a duplexing feature. If these aren't things that matter to you, this printer could be a great option because I do think it is a bargain. The individual toner cartridges are also cheaper than my office's current color printer from HP.
Pros:
-Cost
-Print speed
-Print quality
-Build quality
-Cost
-Print speed
-Print quality
-Build quality
Cons:
-Outdated and barely functional control panel
-Lack of duplex feature
-Size/weight
-Outdated and barely functional control panel
-Lack of duplex feature
-Size/weight
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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2of 3voted this as helpful.
This Lift-Away upright vacuum has DuoClean to deep-clean carpets and directly engage floors for a polished look. The self-cleaning brushroll means no hair wrap, and Lift-Away lets you clean above the floor with the push of a button.
Customer Rating
5
Shark Hits Another Home Run
on September 11, 2019
Posted by: abl001
from Memphis, TN
The Shark Rotator Lift-Away DuoClean Pro really impresses and will surely take care of all your cleaning needs.
Out of the box, the Shark comes nicely packaged with easy to understand quick assembly guide. Fully assembled, the vacuum is heavier than my current Shark by about 5-6lbs, but my current model (the Rotator Powered Lift-Away Speed) is meant to be lighter. While it is heavier, it still maneuvers like a nimble sports car in and around furniture. The swivel joint that connects the handle to the floor unit makes vacuuming an ease and kind of fun. Put on some music and clean to the tunes! The lift away function allows you to cut some of the weight should you need to clean furniture, stairs, or other tight areas.
The suction on this vacuum is amazing. Just like with my previous model, you really have no clue how dirty your carpet is until you over it with the Shark. What appears in the canister is SHOCKING. While the size of the canister is pretty standard, at less than 1/2 gallon, it can fill up without reducing suction. When full, emptying the canister is simple. There's no twisting or turning, just pushing a simple release latch button to disconnect the canister from the vacuum and then pushing another button at the bottom of the canister where all of the dirt and debris cleanly falls into the trash bin. This vacuum works so well that you'll likely need to empty it multiple times, but that's a good thing because you know you're getting things cleaner!
The LED lights are another excellent feature of this Shark. They provide bright lights at almost floor level. Because of their low angle, you'll be able to see things on the floor that you weren't able to see with overhead lights alone.
The DuoClean brush (standard vacuum brush + the hard floor brush) really improves this model over my previous vacuum. I have both carpets, rugs, and hard wood floors. While my previous vacuum did an excellent job at carpets, it wasn't so great at hard wood floors. It's powerful suction would suck in any debris, but hardwood floors can be dusty. Even using the carpet brush didn't completely clean the floors. With this this models hard floor brush, it actually buffs and dusts the hard wood floors while also sucking in any loose debris! This makes me so happy because no one really enjoys having to sweep or mop in addition to vacuuming.
Lastly, the Power Pet Brush is great--especially for those with pets. Despite my best efforts, my cat will inevitably crawl on uncovered parts of the couch. After not much time at all, his hair becomes entangled and weaved into the fabric of the couch. I'm still baffled how this happens, but it does. Brushing and sucking alone is not sufficient to remove these hairs. However, the Power Pet Brush's suction and vigorous active brush roll get my furry friends leftovers off the couch so that it looks brand new. If you have pets, you know what I'm talking about and this tool will be your new best friend!
In conclusion, I love this vacuum. It makes cleaning easy, effective, and efficient! It will be an excellent addition to your household.
Pros:
*Functionality
*Suction
*Lights
*Ease of use
*Ease of cleaning
*Pet Power Brush
*Lift Away Function
*Cost is MUCH less than some more expensive brands, and in my opinion, you get WAY more for your money with this vacuum.
*Functionality
*Suction
*Lights
*Ease of use
*Ease of cleaning
*Pet Power Brush
*Lift Away Function
*Cost is MUCH less than some more expensive brands, and in my opinion, you get WAY more for your money with this vacuum.
Cons:
*Slightly heavier than my current vacuum, but it makes up for it in what it can do
*Not a fan of the buttons, but that's minor.
*Slightly heavier than my current vacuum, but it makes up for it in what it can do
*Not a fan of the buttons, but that's minor.
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+2points
2of 2voted this as helpful.
abl001's Review Comments
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Unlock new potential for your wireless headphones with this Airfly headphone accessory. It plugs into any conventional headphone jack to enhance your listening experience and can pair with in-flight entertainment systems for added convenience. This Airfly headphone accessory has an eight-hour battery life and recharges through USB, so it's easy to take anywhere.
Can you give air more than one set of earbuds to the same device?
Dive right in and do something amazing with your photos. Auto-generated photo and video slideshows and collages are created just for you and delivered upon launch. Get up and running quickly with the new home screen - see what's new since your last version, discover fun things to try, and get inspiring ideas, help, and tutorials. Effortlessly organize, edit, and create thanks to photo and video automation powered by Adobe Sensei AI technology. Try artistic techniques and effects with 53 step-by-step guided edits. And share your favorite memories in everything from fun memes and collages to dynamic slideshows to printed artwork and gifts.
Is file storage cloud based?
No. The storage will be locale with this version. Adobe does offer cloud based storage for some of their other products.
5 years, 5 months ago
by
abl001
Dive right in and do something amazing with your photos. Auto-generated photo and video slideshows and collages are created just for you and delivered upon launch. Get up and running quickly with the new home screen - see what's new since your last version, discover fun things to try, and get inspiring ideas, help, and tutorials. Effortlessly organize, edit, and create thanks to photo and video automation powered by Adobe Sensei AI technology. Try artistic techniques and effects with 53 step-by-step guided edits. And share your favorite memories in everything from fun memes and collages to dynamic slideshows to printed artwork and gifts.
is this good for window 10?
Yes, this will work on Windows 10 or Mac OS. You select which one you need.
5 years, 5 months ago
by
abl001
Dive right in and do something amazing with your photos. Auto-generated photo and video slideshows and collages are created just for you and delivered upon launch. Get up and running quickly with the new home screen - see what's new since your last version, discover fun things to try, and get inspiring ideas, help, and tutorials. Effortlessly organize, edit, and create thanks to photo and video automation powered by Adobe Sensei AI technology. Try artistic techniques and effects with 53 step-by-step guided edits. And share your favorite memories in everything from fun memes and collages to dynamic slideshows to printed artwork and gifts.
does this come with an installation disc?
No. You will get a code which allows you to download the software from Adobe.
5 years, 5 months ago
by
abl001
Get fast printing that fits your space and your budget. Produce professional-quality results, and print and scan from your smartphone.Prints up to 19 ISO ppm* in black
Does this printer have fax capabilities?
No. This is just a printer, not a multi-function.
5 years, 5 months ago
by
abl001
Keep the music going at your next party or backyard barbecue with this Sony portable Bluetooth speaker, which features a six-hour battery life. The compact size fits neatly on a desk or table, while the splash-proof design makes this speaker perfect beach adventures. Use the on-speaker buttons to start your tunes or turn up the volume. This Sony portable Bluetooth speaker comes with EXTRA BASS sound to bring out the best in your playlists.
Can you skip songs using the volume buttons on the speaker?
Yes. By pressing the play/pause/call button twice quickly during playback, the XB01 will skip to the beginning of the next song. I found it necessary to wait a second or two until the next song began playing before skipping to the next song. If it registers your presses too close together (3 presses), it may think you want to go back to the beginning of the current song.
5 years, 6 months ago
by
abl001
Only at Best Buy Defend your home from intruders with this SimpliSafe security system. Its wireless design provides reliable, multilayer protection and avoids interruptions from cut phone lines and power outages, and it connects to an app for remote operation. This SimpliSafe security system is easy to install and customizable to homes of any size for flexible use.
Do you have to have the contract to use it and to get notifications on your cellphone?
You must sign up for the monthly service for notification and monitoring, but you don't have to sign a contract.
6 years, 1 month ago
by
abl001
Take your workout to the next level with Powerbeats³ Wireless earphones, featuring up to 12 hours of battery life to last through multiple workouts and secure-fit earhooks to maximize comfort and stability. With Fast Fuel, a 5-minute charge gives you 1 hour of playback. Sweat and water resistance provides trusted durability and dual-driver acoustics deliver dynamic sound to power your workout.
How are these for running on a treadmill, I have a problem keeping Apple earbuds and other wireless earphones in my right ear when I run. Will these stay in for someone with small ears?
I think this will vary by person and the individual shape of your ear, but I don't have issues on the treadmill.
6 years, 2 months ago
by
abl001
Surround yourself with robust audio performance in a slim package with this LG ultra-slim soundbar. Compatible with the latest LG televisions, the compact soundbar pairs seamlessly to deliver an immersive audio-visual experience. The 4K high resolution audio on this LG ultra-slim soundbar lets you hear the action in every scene.
Two questions: 1) Since this sound bar does not have a center speaker, how is dialogue clarity? 2) Can the subwoofer just be used occasionally; that is can it be turned off and on?
1) Dialogue clarity is excellent! 2) The sub can be turned down via the remote control so that it is virtually inactive. You can also adjust the sound EQ to turn the bass up or down to your preference. I found the LG SJ8 to really perform well in not overpowering the bass like some subs can do.
6 years, 8 months ago
by
abl001
Immerse yourself in music or movies with this LG TONE Studio wearable speaker. It has four drivers to let you experience three-dimensional surround sound and feel low-frequency vibrations from the bass through your body. This LG TONE Studio wearable speaker is Bluetooth compatible for easy connection to your smart devices.
so this is a speaker that you wear around your neck? Does the sound work with and without the ear buds?
Yes. There is a switch on the neckband that allows you to easily switch between headphone mode and external speaker mode. You can set the unit down and listen without wearing it, but the sound quality is much much better when worn as intended.
6 years, 9 months ago
by
abl001