Share BADog's profile
 
Facebook Twitter
 
 
BADog
 
 
 
BADog's stats
 
  • Review count
    130
  • Helpfulness votes
    2,311
  • First review
    July 8, 2015
  • Last review
    May 6, 2024
  • Featured reviews
    0
  • Average rating
    4.5
 
Reviews comments
  • Review comment count
    0
  • Helpfulness votes
    0
  • First review comment
    None
  • Last review comment
    None
  • Featured review comments
    0
 
Questions
  • Question count
    0
  • Helpfulness votes
    0
  • First question
    None
  • Last question
    None
  • Featured questions
    0
 
  • Answer count
    20
  • Helpfulness votes
    15
  • First answer
    August 12, 2017
  • Last answer
    March 23, 2021
  • Featured answers
    0
  • Best answers
    4
 
 
BADog's Reviews
<< 1 ... 3 4 5 6 7 ... 13 >>
 
Capture stunning imagery with the legendary Hasselblad camera and enjoy a smooth flight with omnidirectional obstacle sensing. Every improvement on Mavic 3 sets a higher standard for aerial photography. Fly with Mavic 3 and discover imaging above everything.
 
  • Top 50 contributor
  • Tech Insider Network
Customer Rating
5 out of 5
5
Mavic 3 Competes at Head of the Pack
on November 24, 2021
Posted by: BADog
from Hoover, AL
DJI has released their new flagship drone - the Mavic 3. This "Fly More" package includes the Mavic 3, 3 Intelligent batteries, 3-battery charger, proprietary charger with spare USB-A charging port, USB-to-USB-C cable, 4 ND filters, 3 connecting cables (USB-C-to---microUSB, USB-C, Apple), storage bag (which coverts to an over-the-shoulder bag), storage harness, controller, spare propellers/joysticks, and paperwork. It comes with a 1-year manufacturer's warranty.
PROS:
---------
* Nice packaging, plenty of spare parts, solidly built drone itself, compact, with 3 batteries for extended fly time.
* Air vents all over the place so avoid overheating
* Obstacle avoidance 360-degrees around the drone; however see CONs 2nd point
* Battery slides in and clicks in place
* The end of the propellers are rubber-like so if you do hit something, they won't chip off as easily
* If you scratch the outside camera, you'd only be scratching the filter rather than the lens itself. It's much cheaper to replace a filter than the entire camera.
* 5000mAh batteries have provided me with approximately 35-38 minutes of flight time. I did fly in non-windy conditions, so your experience may be better or worse depending on heat, wind, and altitude. I flew when temps were not extremely hot - around 70 degrees or less.
* The 3-battery multi-charger! Need I say more?
* PERFORMANCE: (1) I did wait until we had some higher winds prior to a storm and was impressed how well it stood its ground. I am confident that with high winds of ~20-25mph (give or take), it should be able to hover without being taken down to the ground. (2) There was very little latency with the RF response between the controller and the drone.
* Though having a strange design, the gimbal guard is quite functional when the drone is in storage and holding propellers in place.
* The storage bag can be used as a backpack and has storage compartments for all pieces, batteries, and the drone itself. It's a bit weight-shifted so is a bit difficult to keep open and keep from tipping over though when packing and unpacking.
* IMAGE/VIDEO QUALITY: Possibly one of THE best images or video I have ever seen for a drone. Even without filters, colors pop, frame rate is exceptional, and overall quality if phenomenal. It already had a great wide-angle view. There is an attachment you can use to make it even wider. Night shots may also be the best I have ever seen. They tend to keep the image looking as clean and real as seen by the naked eye. Many times, colors are lost, but on this drone, it's quite impressive. Reds and blues pop, low noise. Crisp images and video right out of the box.
CONS:
---------
* The USB-C/microSD compartment can be a little difficult to open if the battery is not removed. If you don't have fingernails, it may be a little more difficult to do a hot-swap of the microSD card.
* Obstacle avoidance though 360-degrees, do not rely on it 100%. It's not 100% reliable as I was able to get close to some objects - much closer than I should have.
* The secondary camera (zoom) didn't work as well as I would have liked. The picture quality was nowhere close to the main camera. But it is secondary... I'm not sure how much I'll be using that feature.
* There is no microSD card included.
OTHER OBSERVATIONS:
------------------------------------
* Be sure to use V30+ microSD card if you record in 4K+. They will allow for higher write speeds necessary for 4K video.
* Be sure to connect the 3-battery multi-charger with the main USB-C wire from the wall charging module. It takes around 90 minutes per battery to charge, and they charge up fully one at a time.
* This package comes with the standard RC controller, not the PRO controller. You will need to use a phone or small tablet (with adaptable hookups on the back) for video. I wish all of these came with the PRO because it's just a pain to hook up your phone each time you fly.
* The Apple connection cable is already installed on the controller. The 2 spares are for microUSB and USB-C.
* The whole owners manual is only available online. It is not included in the paperwork provided.
* I won't post any pictures with this review, only because the pictures are what you make of them, even in post. Whatever picture you want though, this drone can take.
CONCLUSION:
============
You won't find a better foldable drone on the market than the DJI Mavic 3. Remember, good shots are obtained by the pilot and movement with the drone. All the drone is, is a flying camera. If the picture or video is crystal clear, and the shot is what you want anglewise, then anything not perfect by the camera can be done in post production. Based on what I have experienced, there isn't a ton of post that I have to do with these videos or pictures. Frame rate and picture quality is superb when viewing back on a large monitor or big-screen TV. A+. Thumbs up. 100. It checks all the boxes.
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
 
Next-level versatility comes in the perfect pair — Surface Slim Pen 2 stores securely and recharges in the premium keyboard, featuring a large glass touchpad and luxurious, Alcantara material covering. Ready to pair with Surface Pro 9, Surface Pro 8 and Surface Pro X.*
 
  • Top 50 contributor
  • Tech Insider Network
Customer Rating
5 out of 5
5
Great Addition to Surface Pro
on October 21, 2021
Posted by: BADog
from Hoover, AL
Microsoft has released a new Surface Pro Signature Keyboard with Slim Pen 2 to go with the new line of Surface Pro tablets/laptops. This package includes the keyboard, pen, and thin cardboard information sheet which shows some quick facts about the product. It comes with a 1-year manufacturer's warranty.
PROS:
---------
* Connects easily to the Surface Pro using magnets (I'm using the X with 8GB RAM).
* The keyboard has a small slot to put the pen in which is held in place when the keyboard is closed.
* The keyboard is quite convenient for us that use typing skills instead of typing on a screen. Add in the mouse capability and that's even better at times.
* The "felt" surface of the keyboard allows for one side of the Surface to be placed on a table without it feeling like the Surface is going to get dented or scratched up.
* The keyboard keys do light up if needed.
* Protects screen when not in use.
CONS:
---------
* The keyboard is flimsy, and though responsive, does feel a bit cheap. If you don't have a flat surface while typing, it may bend a bit while doing so. A more rigid back side would be great.
* Would like more protection that might wrap around the whole PC if needed, not just the keyboard/screen side.
OTHER OBSERVATIONS:
------------------------------------
* I do not typically use a pen for much on my PCs, but after using, I can see how it can come in handy for drawing and designs in certain programs. I used it a few times; however with my profession, I likely won't get a lot of use out of it. They keyboard will be used more than anything.
CONCLUSION:
============
If you get the Surface Pro, just get the keyboard. There are so many times where you need one, and it's simple to hook up and use. It will also protect your screen at the same time when closed. If you need a better mouse, you can always use the USB-C port (with USB-C hub/adapter) to make that happen. It's a simple product but offers a lot.
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
+1point
1of 1voted this as helpful.
 
Meet the totally mobile Pro. Always with you, instantly ready, and designed to light up the best of Windows 11. Keep up anywhere, at any angle, with a detachable Keyboard² with built-in Slim Pen storage and charging³ — plus fast connectivity and all-day battery life, with optional Gigabit LTE.⁴
 
  • Top 50 contributor
  • Tech Insider Network
Customer Rating
5 out of 5
5
This Surface Great for Simple Entertainment
on October 21, 2021
Posted by: BADog
from Hoover, AL
Microsoft has released it's latest iteration of the Surface Pro X. It's a laptop/tablet with Windows 11 installed, 13" screen with 8GB/16GB RAM and between 128GB-512GB SSD, and a 64-bit OS ARM-based processor (SQ1/SQ2). The package includes the Surface Pro X, a proprietary power cable with an added USB charging port built-in to the transformer, and some paperwork. It comes with a 1-year manufacturer's warranty.
OBSERVED BATTERY LIFE
100% to 6% - 3 hours 45 minutes, full screen streaming video at 50% display brightness, Warning pop-up box appeared at 6%.
6% to 0% - additional 11 minutes, full screen streaming video at 50% display brightness
TOTAL = approximately 4 hours with constant video streaming on 50% display brightness, so the processor load was pushed at all times.
Obviously, one's processor usage and screen brightness will determine the longevity of battery power.
PROS:
---------
* Very sturdy rear stand that is "soft" friction-based on a smooth swivel. It does not click into place at any position except when closed, when the magnet pops it back in place.
* Facial recognition works very well when logging in.
* Has proprietary magnetic power cable that can attach itself in 2 directions (see photos) depending on your angle needs.
* It has the adaptability for a Microsoft keyboard and Pen (Sold Separately but I also have pictured). These come in handy when having to type rather than using the on-screen keyboard.
* With Win11, it took around 15-20 minutes to get setup, including out-of-box updates. Setup was easy, and the new Win11 interface wasn't too bad to get used to.
* Screen is touch-sensitive at a good threshold of screen pressure.
* Speakers are stereo and hidden on the very upper right and left edges of the screen next to the metal casing. The sound is what should be expected from small speakers such as these. If you want better sound, get bluetooth headphones or bluetooth speaker.
CONS:
---------
* Not a lot of SSD on this machine at 128GB. If you have higher storage needs, you'll need a USB-C adapter or hub where you can connect your preferred storage medium.
* There is no external audio port (3.5mm) for corded audio equipment. Everything must use Bluetooth.
* There are no longer quick on/off options for features (brightness, bluetooth, display, hotspot, etc) when you click where the old Win10 Notifications area was located (to the right of the clock).
* It does not come with a handful of features or international fonts already installed like wireless display (or wireless projector). It took a couple of tries, but I was able to finally get my Surface Pro X to appear wirelessly on my big-screen Samsung TV. Bluetooth must be turned on and you have to go into APPS - OPTIONAL FEATURES - ADD AN OPTIONAL FEATURE - and scroll through the list to find Wireless Display and Install that feature for it to work. Even after installed, I do not see a quick and easy way to access this feature like there was in Win10 - at least not yet.
* Speed Test App (in the MS app store) was able to be installed, but did not work. This could be incompatibility to Win11 until an app update fixes this issue. I have the GO button, but it never connects to a server; however, if I go check the same speed test in a browser, it works fine.
* I wish the row of numbers (above the letters) was available on the on-screen keyboard instead of having to hit the numbers button to bring up numbers. Numbers are used as much as letters - I'd like to see them on the screen at the same time or at least have the option to have that.
OTHER OBSERVATIONS:
------------------------------------
* Half of the 8GB RAM is used for the system which only leaves 4GB memory remaining for other tasks. Obviously, you know what you are paying for on the front end, but 4GB of remaining memory is not a lot. Perhaps the RAM minimum for new Windows 11 should be 16GB.
* There are only 3 hard buttons on the outside of the unit - Vol Up, Vol Down, & Power. 2 inputs only - 2 USB-C ports. It may be beneficial to purchase a USB-C hub/adapter for other peripherals if needed.
* The tablet uses a Qualcomm Microsoft SQ1 processor for the 8GB version, and the SQ2 for 16GB version instead of Intel chips. I have the SQ1, and I didn't really have any issues as far as performance though I will say you can tell there's a lack of RAM at times when opening multiple apps at the same time (small latency issues).
* This version of Win11 does not support "Remote Desktop"
* There are a few nuances of Win11 to get used to, and where to find some items, so there will be a small learning curve going forward. If you maneuver around Win10 easily, Win11 should catch on for the most part.
CONCLUSION:
============
After quite a bit of use, I have found that this tablet/laptop is best suited for basic needs, especially if using the 8GB RAM with SQ1 processor combo. It's definitely not made for gaming or full-on reporting where a hard keyboard might be needed for extensive typing. Even with the keyboard attachment, it could be a bit cumbersome to deal with a semi-flimsy keyboard. It performs tasks such as watching videos, writing emails, surfing the web, and video calls very well. With the 13" screen, you'll likely need to "keep it simple". Use your 20"+ monitor for Excel spreadsheets - leave this one to mostly entertainment items. Great for on-the-go people and for vacation entertainment needs. For it's purpose and audience, I'd recommend for sure.
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
+4points
5of 6voted this as helpful.
 
The Satechi USB-C On-the-Go Multiport Adapter helps make productivity portable. Designed for portability and convenience, the Adapter features USB-C PD charging, HDMI and VGA display ports, USB-A data ports, SD card slots, and Gigabit Ethernet, with two detachable USB-C cables - perfect for on-the-go or docked at your desk. With its sleek aluminum finish and plug and play design, the On-the-go Multiport Adapter enables you to work at your best wherever you are.
 
  • Top 50 contributor
  • Tech Insider Network
Customer Rating
5 out of 5
5
One of the Better USB-C Hubs Available
on October 1, 2021
Posted by: BADog
from Hoover, AL
Sateshi has recently released a new 9-port USB Hub with USB-C main connector. The package comes with the hub, a 3.25-ft USBC-to-USBC cable, a short internal 4-inch USBC-to-USBC ribbon cable, and instruction paperwork. It comes with a 1-year manufacturer's warranty.
PROS:
---------
* The ingenuity of having the 4-inch rigid ribbon cable able to be stored inside the unit is great. It pops into place and won't come out by accident. There is a small tab the user can use to pull it out, but it stays securely in place while stored.
* It comes with a 3.25-inch longer USBC-to-USBC cable for possible longer-reach applications which is great. Not everything works well with the shorter internal 4-inch cable.
* Not only does the longer USB-C cable work with this product, but it is also a VIDEO-CAPABLE USB-C cable. This means, that if you use this cable between some portable video projectors to a USB-C connected phone/tablet, it will work due to this type of USB-C cable's capabilities. Not all USB-C cables are created the same - this one is of the high-quality variety.
* The hub has a gray matte finish and deterrent to fingerprints
* The instructions do not state this, but the ethernet port is a 1-Gig capable port. I have "Gig" internet and was able to pull 900+ Mbs both ways.
* USB-C PD good up to 100W
CONS:
---------
* The 2 USB-A ports available are both "SS" superspeed; however, they are 3.0 (or 3.1 gen1) and have a transfer rate of 5Gbs. It would have been nice for a new product such as this to have its USB-A ports capable of 3.1 gen2 speeds of 10Gbs. If you need higher transfer rates, you'll have to use the USB-C ports instead of the USB-A.
* No carrying sleeve/case to protect from getting scratched up during transit.
OTHER OBSERVATIONS:
------------------------------------
* The SD and microSD cards must be inserted with the metal contact points facing inwards, towards the center of the unit, so be careful not to force them into their slots upside down. The drawings on the hub may be hard to see depending on your lighting.
* HDMI is capable of 4K@60Hz. The VGA port is capable of 1080p according to specs. All of my monitors are HDMI-only so this was a wasted port for me.
CONCLUSION:
============
Overall, a great hub. With most monitors/TVs upgrading to HDMI, there isn't much of a use for VGA anymore. If the number of ports were to remain the same, another USB/USB-C port would be nice or even another HDMI port with functionality that would allow for dual monitors that allow for an extended display (screen1 and screen 2, not just a duplicated screen). I like the hidden 4" USB-C connector; that's a great feature. Perhaps a carrying case or pouch could have been provided to protect the nice finish. But functionally, it works great and would recommend to others.
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
+5points
5of 5voted this as helpful.
 
Capture quality vlogs with this black GoPro HERO10 camera. The removable rechargeable 1720 mAh battery offers long shooting periods, while the rugged, waterproof design allows flexible use on different terrains. This GoPro HERO10 camera features a 1.4-inch screen for framing shots seamlessly, and the 23MP sensor captures 5.3K videos effortlessly.
 
  • Top 50 contributor
  • Tech Insider Network
Customer Rating
5 out of 5
5
GoPro Ups Their Game This Year
on September 29, 2021
Posted by: BADog
from Hoover, AL
GoPro has recently released their new action camera, the GoPro HERO10 Black. It has a number of tech features that will help your video come to life on your 4K TV. The package comes with the camera, a short USBC-to-USBC cable, rechargeable battery, slightly curved stick-on base, attachment hinge, bolt connector, carrying case, and some paperwork. It comes with a 1-yr manufacturer's warranty.
Rather than go over every single spec of the camera, I will mainly go over my experience as the end user. The specs are already available on this product page. This will be my 2nd GoPRO HERO camera. I also have have the HERO4 Black so this is quite the upgrade for me.
PROS:
---------
* There are a crazy number of resolutions available, but at 5.3K, this unit can handle up to 60fps and at 4K, up to 120fps, down to HD (10800) which can handle up to 240fps. That's incredible resolution for a small action camera. Clarity on a full 4K TV is quite good.
* The simplicity remains with 1 button start/stop and the 1 button mode select + ON/OFF. Everything else is on the nice and laid out touch screen with good finger sensitivity and responsiveness.
* Initial setup was a breeze with my V60 microSD card inserted. A minimum of a V30 microSD card is recommended if you record at the 4K+ level due to write limitations of the card. Go for V60 to future-proof yourself.
* As with the last few iterations of the HERO, the connection flaps fold up into the body to keep from having to use a camera holder like older models.
* The biggest PRO for the GP10 is the new GP2 processor based on the emails I have received from GoPro direct. The previous processor apparently had issues with freezing and couldn't keep up with the better tech the camera had to offer. The GP2 has solved many of those issues.
* Video stabilization works really well. After attaching to my 4-wheeler and going on trails, the video is quite smooth compared to this feature being off. This feature is called Hypersmooth 4.0 and it a great upgrade from the last versions of the Heroes.
* The hydrophobic lens helps significantly with water-shedding off of the glass.
* It's waterproof to around 33 feet without a scuba casing.
* Has a forward-facing camera so you can see what's being filmed if using a stick or other extension accessory.
* Quik app connects to the camera wirelessly as it has done in the past. It has an adequate editor, but obviously, you may opt for a premium PC version.
* It has the ability to attach various GoPro mods that make the camera a bit better for audio, lighting, connections, etc.
CONS:
---------
* I have found the battery compartment to be incredibly difficult to open though it is very sturdy. This is done to keep the unit waterproof.
* The 1-yr GoPro subscription discount is a bit deceiving giving $100 off the initial price. If something happens to your camera, and you want camera replacement, there is a $99 service fee, and the yearly fee is $50 and will be renewed until you cancel. There are some other perks like live streaming, unlimited cloud backup, and discounts on accessories, but I'm not so sure the value is worth it, at least not for me. For those that take a crazy amount of video, perhaps this program could be a benefit.
OTHER OBSERVATIONS:
------------------------------------
* The case is a nice touch; you'll want to remove the inside camera holder to open up the storage area. Keep the camera in a wash cloth inside the case so other accessories don't damage the camera while in transit.
* Once you get inside the battery compartment, this is where you'll find the USB-C charging connection/data port and the microSD slot (see picture).
* I know I'm a few iterations behind (HERO4), but I hate that I have to buy new batteries since the old batteries do not fit the new camera. The good news for Hero9 users is that those batteries will fit the Hero10. Batteries used prior to the Hero9 are not compatible.
CONCLUSION:
============
Overall, GoPro listened to the complaints from the previous GoPro, the Hero9. This camera needed a new processor, and GoPro upgraded to the new GP2. After using about 2-3 hours, the camera has been stable the entire time and has not frozen up or had other issues. Using a V60 microSD card, I have had NO issues with video recording smoothness or color. I'm totally impressed with the solid build of the camera, but do wish the battery compartment was easier to open. I understand it's tight in order to keep water out. Perhaps GoPro can work out a better mechanism for opening/closing that door that gives the same waterproof security. Ultimately, the performance of the camera is what matters along with the final video product. For me, it works great and did not overheat or give me any real issues. Nice work GoPro.
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
+41points
47of 53voted this as helpful.
 
Experience cinematic surround sound taken to a new level with the SA-RS3S wireless rear speakers. These speakers are designed to seamlessly pair with Sony’s A-Series A7000/A5000/A3000 Soundbar to complete your home theater experience.
 
  • Top 50 contributor
  • Tech Insider Network
Customer Rating
5 out of 5
5
A Great Addition to the Sony HT-A7000 Soundbar
on September 5, 2021
Posted by: BADog
from Hoover, AL
The Sony SA-RS3S is Sony's latest flagship wireless surround speakers for the HT-A7000 soundbar or HT-A9 4-speaker set. These wireless speakers come with 1 power cord (each) and paperwork. They come with a 1-year manufacturer's warranty.
Rather than go over ALL the specs which you can already find on this Bestbuy.com page, I'll try to give more observations of those specs instead.
DISCLAIMER: I have all 3 components for the complete surround experience:
1) HT-A7000 7.1.2ch Soundbar
2) SA-SW5 300W Subwoofer
3) SA-RS3S Wireless Rear Speakers for the HT-A7000 (Review for this product)

PROS:
-----------
* Like the Sony SA-SW5 subwoofer, pairing up with the A7000 soundbar was super easy when done with the initial setup.
* I watched 2 online movies in 4K - The Tomorrow War (Amazon) and Zack Snyder's Justice League (HBO Max). Both featured surround sound and both impressed with immersion experience. I felt like I was in the middle of the action (with the sub and wireless speakers setup included). The use of these speakers brought me even further into the action as I felt as though missiles were flying by, helicopters were behind me, people were yelling all around me, etc. The experience was incredible as far as putting me IN the movie. They provide a total of 100W of output from the 2-way drivers.
* The speakers are easily mountable by using either the slotted hole (like a keyhole - see my pictures) with a screw in an anchor in the wall OR by using a tripod or other mounting apparatus using a 1/4" bolt mount. They can also be simply placed as they are without mounting.
CONS:
-----------
* It can only be used with specific "other" Sony products. It can't be used as standalone wireless speakers for a regular amplifier system.
* There are no mounting screws/anchors for the basic hanging method using the slotted hole.
OTHER OBSERVATIONS:
-----------
* When the main soundbar is turned off, these wireless speakers are automatically turned off as well.
* When the speakers are ON, the LED on the front bottom of the units turns GREEN. When the units are OFF, they turn RED.
* These speakers are wireless, but keep in mind that wherever you mount these, you will still need an AC plug for power for them to work.
* The front grills are not removable.
* When pairing up with the soundbar, the wireless speakers did take a firmware update with no issues.
CONCLUSION:
=====================
I highly recommend that you add these wireless speakers to your HT-A7000 soundbar system but only after you buy one of the subwoofers as well. The surround speakers really complete the surround experience; however, I wouldn't have these before getting the subwoofer. Having all 3 items will complete your soundbar system in an incredible and immersive way. The soundbar creates left, right, and above sounds... but these surround speakers take it behind you and even more-so around you. You will notice a difference when added for sure. I highly recommend them with the HT-A7000. Great job, Sony. (I did reviews for the other 2 products in this line as well if you enjoyed this review.)
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
+6points
6of 6voted this as helpful.
 
Power up your home theater system with the booming bass of the SA-SW5 wireless subwoofer, designed to pair seamlessly with your HT-A9/A7000/A5000/A3000 Soundbar to deliver an immersive cinematic experience.
 
  • Top 50 contributor
  • Tech Insider Network
Customer Rating
5 out of 5
5
A "Must-Have" for the Sony HT-A7000 Soundbar
on September 5, 2021
Posted by: BADog
from Hoover, AL
The Sony SA-SW5 is Sony's latest flagship subwoofer for the HT-A7000 soundbar or the Sony HT-A9 4-speaker set. This subwoofer comes with a power cable & paperwork. The subwoofer comes with a 1-year manufacturer's warranty.
Rather than go over ALL the specs which you can already find on this Bestbuy.com page, I'll try to give more observations of those specs instead.
DISCLAIMER: I have all 3 components for the complete surround experience:
1) HT-A7000 7.1.2ch Soundbar
2) SA-SW5 300W Subwoofer (Review for this product)
3) SA-RS3S Wireless Rear Speakers for the HT-A7000

PROS:
-----------
* Deep, rich, submersive bass
* Easy connectivity to the Sony HT-A7000 soundbar.
* Wired connections are super easy - power cable only.
* It connects to the soundbar as part of the soundbar setup via Bluetooth (BT). No issues, simple interface and hookup.
* It has a down-firing and front-firing driver with open ports on the bottom on every side allowing for 360-degree bass emmitance.
* I watched 2 online movies in 4K - The Tomorrow War (Amazon) and Zack Snyder's Justice League (HBO Max). Both featured surround sound and both impressed with immersion experience. I felt like I was in the middle of the action (with the sub and wireless speakers setup included). The explosions really came to life with the use of this sub. The chairs/couch vibrate like you're there in the middle of the action - only a sub can really do that.
CONS:
-----------
* It can only be used with specific "other" Sony products. It can't be used as a standalone sub for an amplifier system.
OTHER OBSERVATIONS:
-----------
* It's a beast of a sub weighing in at nearly 30 lbs.
* When the main soundbar is turned off, the subwoofer is automatically turned off as well.
* When the sub is ON, the LED on the front bottom of the unit turns GREEN. When the sub is OFF, it turns RED.
CONCLUSION:
=====================
The concept of this product is simple - provide deep, rich bass sound to music and movies. It does just that with simplicity. 300W of power goes a long way when you want your room to come alive. I believe the sub is a must-have for any soundbar, a priority ahead of rear wireless speakers. You won't be disappointed with this sub. It gives you want you want in the low frequency range. Nice work, Sony. (I did reviews for the other 2 products in this line as well if you enjoyed this review.)
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
+10points
10of 10voted this as helpful.
 
Discover a whole new level of immersion that envelops you in 7.1.2 channel surround sound with multiple speakers, a built-in subwoofer and advanced audio technologies. And with rear speakers it supports 360 Spatial Sound Mapping.
 
  • Top 50 contributor
  • Tech Insider Network
Customer Rating
5 out of 5
5
Flagship Quality from Sony Once Again
on September 5, 2021
Posted by: BADog
from Hoover, AL
The Sony HT-A7000 is Sony's latest flagship soundbar. It can be paired up with a 200W or 300W subwoofer and/or wireless surround speakers. All items are sold separately. This single soundbar package comes with the soundbar, remote control (2 AAA batteries included), mounting hardware, 4K HDMI cable, 3.5mm analog audio S-Center Out connector cable, power cable, & paperwork. The soundbar comes with a 1-year manufacturer's warranty.
Rather than go over every single specification which you can already find on this Bestbuy.com page, I'll try to give more observations of those specs instead.
DISCLAIMER: I have all 3 components for the complete surround experience:
1) HT-A7000 7.1.2ch Soundbar (Review for this product)
2) SA-SW5 300W Subwoofer for the HT-A7000
3) SA-RS3S Wireless Rear Speakers for the HT-A7000

PROS:
-----------
* Setup is very user friendly with the on-screen user interface using the HDMI/ARC connection. Each step was explained well on the screen, and the sound demos were very useful. Part of setup is also having the system perform a sound check so it can tell where all the speakers are placed distance-wise, in order to have the most optimal volumes and delays for each given speaker (if you have the subwoofer and wireless rear speakers).
* This is a well-constructed sound bar - it feels solid. It weighs approximately 20 lbs.
* If you use the mounting brackets provided, connecting the speaker to the brackets is easy with the 2 mounting screws provided. If you place the soundbar on a platform, the rubber feet keep it in place and from vibrating off that surface. I have shown that in one of my pictures.
* 2 HDMI ports + ARC gives the ability to hook up 2 different sources (say a gaming system, Blu-ray player, or PC perhaps) while still offering 2 other audio options with optical/fiber cable or 3.5mm analog. If you already use certain Sony Bravia TVs, there is the capability to use the S-Center Out port to pair up your TV's speakers with the center channel of the soundbar for added sound. I do not have a Sony TV, so I did not use this option.
* The bar offers a multitude of wireless options including Bluetooth (BT), Wifi, Spotify, Chromcast, and Apple Airplay2. Using Spotify via the on-screen interface keeps you from having to have your phone nearby using BT. It would have been great to have Pandora as an option as well.
* If you use Google or Alexa, those are incorporated into the soundbar.
* It has the option to play "360 Reality Audio" which is a nice added feature but may require a subscription to use. Services currently available with this feature are 360 by Deezer, Amazon Music, nugs.net, and TIDAL (see pictures). The demo was pretty cool.
* The remote control allows for easy volume levels for both the MAIN and the sub/wireless without having to go thru a screen interface.
* I watched 2 online movies in 4K - The Tomorrow War (Amazon) and Zack Snyder's Justice League (HBO Max). Both featured surround sound and both impressed with immersion experience. I felt like I was in the middle of the action (with the sub and wireless speakers setup included). Explosions, vocals, left/right sounds were all unique and really brought me into the movie itself.
CONS:
-----------
* Unlike some other sound bars, you can't change the look of the front of it by removing the grill. The metal grill is permanently fixed to the soundbar.
* Wall mounting hardware (screws/anchors) is not provided.
OTHER OBSERVATIONS:
-----------
* The top of the soundbar, between the 2 upward-facing drivers, is glossy black and will show fingerprints easily.
* The soundbar includes forward-facing drivers in addition to the beam tweeters on the end. Add in the up-facing drivers, and this soundbar really does a great job of creating surround sound as it bounces sound off of the ceiling and the walls.
CONCLUSION:
=====================
Overall, this new soundbar is exactly what sound enthusiasts need that don't want to go the route of buying an amplifier and external speakers. This system is on par with other flagship brands, if not better. There are very few (to no) issues with this product technically, and should be great for most peoples' homes. It has a ton of power, bass, and surround sound to put you in the middle of the action. I highly recommend getting one of the two available subwoofers, and if you can go the distance, get the rear wireless speakers as well. Job well done, Sony. (I did reviews for the other 2 products in this audio line as well if you enjoyed this review.)
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
+16points
16of 16voted this as helpful.
 
Looking for a projector that can handle both business and entertainment needs? Look no further than the Miroir M600 Full HD Pro 1080p projector! It's compact, lightweight, and can project up to 120 inches with a bright display of 600 LED lumens. Plus, with a built-in rechargeable battery and a 5-watt speaker, you can take it with you anywhere without worrying about power or sound. Whether you're giving a presentation at work or hosting a movie night with friends, the M600 has you covered. And with support for 4K input and Texas Instruments Digital Light Processing technology, you'll get clear and vibrant images that will make you feel like you're at the cinema. Don't settle for anything less than amazing - get the Miroir M600 Full HD Pro 1080p projector today!
 
  • Top 50 contributor
  • Tech Insider Network
Customer Rating
3 out of 5
3
An OK Mobile Option for Viewing TV w/some hiccups
on August 6, 2021
Posted by: BADog
from Hoover, AL
Miroir has created a new product, the M600 Full HD (1080p) Pro Projector, which is portable and easy to use. It won't fit in your pants pocket but possibly a large jacket pocket. The unit measures approximately 9x5x1 inches. The package contains the M600 projector, paperwork, 2 international plug adapters, HDMI cable, power block/cable (proprietary). Miroir offers a 1-year manufacturer's warranty on parts and labor.
Disclaimer: I tested this projector with a Samsung Fold 3 phone, a Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra phone, a Samsung TAB S7 Tablet, and a Microsoft laptop. This is also the first projector of any kind that I have owned, so this review comes from a newbie's eyes and is pretty thorough!
BATTERY LIFE:
NORMAL Brightness mode: 50 minutes until the unit shuts off
ECO Brightness mode: 1 hour 52 minutes until the unit shuts off
Time for battery to charge from completely dead to 100%: 2 hours
BULB LIFE:
Miroir claims 20,000 hours bulb life in NORMAL mode and 30,000 hours bulb life in ECO mode.
To give you an idea of how long that is, if you watched TV with this projector for 8 hours/day EVERY SINGLE DAY:
NORMAL MODE would give you 6.8 years of bulb life
ECO MODE would give you 10.3 years of bulb life
So if you watch 4 hours EVERY SINGLE DAY, double the results above. This projector should last you for many years if taken care of.
PROS:
-----------
* Automatic keystone feature levels your picture until you angle the projector past ~45-degrees. If you angle the projector past ~45-degrees+, the screen will start to look like a trapezoid on the surface you are displaying on.
* ON/OFF is easy - simply open/close the lens cover from the bottom of the unit. Another good point - it has a lens cover.
* Rubber feet on the bottom are solid and keep the unit still if it sits on a platform.
* It has a tripod mount which is great, but... (see CONS)
* Touch-sensitive volume controls and mode button. Easy to use. Volume can be turned all the way down on the unit if using BT audio between the connected device and a BT speaker. Audio level is shown on the screen in the upper-left corner. 0 to 100 in increments of 10.
* The unit is pretty quiet during use.
* I had no issues connecting HDMI from a PC to the HDMI input and getting sound/picture just fine.
* If you use an Amazon stick (or device that uses USB power), you can plug the stick into the HDMI port while using the USB-A port on the back to power up the stick.
* Battery indicator lights are on the back of the unit. But as long as you know the times I have provided, you'll have a better idea of when your projector will auto-shutdown if starting from 100%. Over time, those times will obviously shorten due to battery degradation.
CONS:
-----------
* At this price point, the most disappointing feature is that it is missing a piece of hardware - a video-capable USBC-to-USBC cable of decent length and/or an adapter for iPhones/Android-to-HDMI. I am using a flagship Samsung S21 Ultra to connect via USB-C cable, and it did not work until I used a thicker and more capable USB-C cable which is apparently used for higher throughput and video. At least a 3-ft cable of this quality could have been provided. Since it wasn't provided, it made the unit completely useless if you had only planned to connect via smart phone. There were no adapters included (except for power). This is a huge miss at $500 retail. The instructions clearly state "Some Android devices require a USB-C to HDMI adapter cable (sold separately)". That's fine; however, all USB-C cables clearly do not work, and that's the cable that should have been provided.
* 600 lumens is acceptable by a portable unit like this, but the darker the room, the better the picture will be. It is absolutely nothing like watching an LED TV for sure. On ECO mode, the picture is even dimmer (to save battery). If you have a real projector screen or reflective paint, that may likely help with brightness.
* There is no way to resize the display output other than moving the projector forwards/backwards.
* Focus is done manually with a rotating wheel on the side (there is no auto-focus).
* There are no detachable or adjustable legs on the front-bottom of the unit. If you want to tilt the unit, you will need to provide an angled piece of "something" under it if you don't want it sliding off a book or squared-off object.
* There are NO wireless connections of any kind (no bluetooth/wifi). Everything is wired.
* If you do not like fingerprints on glossy black, you better bring a microfiber cloth. It shows fingerprints on the top quite well. Perhaps a matte finish would have been better.
* The tripod mount is great, but because it has a lip around the bolt hole, it does not lay flush against the tripod base - it wobbles. If you tighten that tripod bolt too tight, there's a chance the projector could be damaged. An EASY fix for this was to simply put a water hose rubber gasket around the bolt hole before attaching to the tripod. This allows for some "give", since it is taller than the hole, it will generally stay secure regardless of the attachment you use. I have posted in the pictures this concept - my hose gasket is red. This again was a huge miss my Miroir. The mounting area should be flat/flush.
* There were no paper instructions other than a quick start guide that offered limited information. That same quick start guide could have been replaced by a complete User Guide (found online) and still fit on the same paper. Those instructions were also very basic but provided more than the useless quick start guide.
* I texted their toll free text phone number, and after over a week, still no response from them.
* On the power block, the plug folds into itself which is great, but unfolding the prongs out of the unit can be difficult since the prongs don't extend past the edge of the block.
* The projector cannot be mounted upside-down (like traditional home projectors) or the picture will also be upside down.
* I am only able to recharge using the proprietary brick/cable provided. Would be nice if there was another USB-C port for charging while the other USB-C is being used for video input.
OTHER OBSERVATIONS:
-----------------------
* 5 Watts of power is all this unit offers for the built-in speakers. On the plus side, more power would cause the battery to die quicker if using battery-only power.
* For the best sound setup, connect the projector to your device, then bluetooth the sound from that device (phone/tablet/PC) to a nice bluetooth speaker, and that will be one less wire you have to connect to the back of the projector. If you must use the 3.5mm audio-out port, that will still work.
* I did not test the USB-A port on this unit as I didn't connect an App stick of any kind.
* The instructions state to hold down the +/- VOL buttons to change between NORMAL and ECO mode, but that did not work. If I long-press the M button, that caused power modes to change. If I plugged anything into the USB-C or HDMI, the picture would simply come up on its own. I did not try using both HDMI and USB-C at the same time since you can't use both.
CONCLUSION:
=====================
There were quite a number of items that Miroir missed in my opinion. The protruding tripod mount, and the lack of providing the proper cable to connect Android devices (USBC-to-USBC) caused many problems on my initial setup. I didn't figure out the cable issue until I got a higher quality (speed) USB-C cable and tested. I ended up using a 9" cable from another product in order to get it to work. The unit is built to be completely wired; however, at the price point of this product being released ($500), one would hope for more features, even the simplest feature of adding legs (in some form) to the front would help. Using a tripod shouldn't be the only way to use this unit if angled. Convenience for users is what the company should focus on - make it user friendly - like with the auto-keystone feature.
Finally, this projector is likely only going to be used as a travel buddy or office presentation device. This would likely not be the best option for a home theater picture. It might suffice for a small room with the lights off or dimmed greatly or at a campout if you bring a portable screen. I posted one picture with the display swallowing up my 85" Samsung TV and another using a giant wall in our den (about 150' diag), then one more small area above a picture in our basement. You can literally watch it anywhere where there is low light. Given some much-needed components (worthy cables) and minor improvements (legs), this projector has potential. But the lack of the basics are holding it back especially given the price tag.
Mobile Submission: False
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
+21points
24of 27voted this as helpful.
 
Game like a pro with this ROG STRIX Advantage Edition. Double up on AMD firepower with Ryzen 9-5900HX CPU and Radeon RX6800M GPU featuring exclusive AMD SmartShift and Smart Access Memory technology that dynamically boosts performance for any task. Enjoy eSports speed on 300hz FHD simply with FreeSync premium enabling ultrasmooth gameplay.
 
  • Top 50 contributor
  • Tech Insider Network
Customer Rating
5 out of 5
5
ASUS Has Upped Their Game With the Strix G15
on July 4, 2021
Posted by: BADog
from Hoover, AL
ASUS has introduced a great all-AMD gaming laptop in the ROG Strix G15 Advantage 15.6", AMD Ryzen 9-5900HX. Contents of this package is the laptop itself, 2 extra color-corner pieces, minimal paperwork, and power cable/brick. The laptop comes with a 1-year warranty on parts & labor.
DISCLAIMER: In case this review gets lumped into other configurations, I have the the 512GB SSD, 16GB RAM, AMD Ryzen 9-5900HX, Radion RX 6800M. Games played include Fortnite, Tomb Raider, and Steam's Grid 2.
PROS:
-----------
* Price is competitive for more expensive machines of other brands and processors at 15.6" display.
* I won't get into the technical numbers, but performance-wise, extremely low latency, refresh rate is more than acceptable. (100FPS, 144Hz+ display, fast boot times)
* An Ethernet port (RJ45) is included - huge plus. Plenty of USBs - 3 USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A + USB-C Gen2 with DP and PD. HDMI 2.0b output is great if you want to send to another monitor. Audio port also included.
* Keyboard back-lighting can be changed a variety of ways, on, off, strobing, waving, same color, different colors, etc.
* Battery life is decent as it's probably in the top 1/3 of many laptops I have used in the past. 90Wh will give you about 1.5 hours of high performance gaming before attempting to shut down.
* The fans aren't quite as noisy as previous ROG models, and this version does have a FAN mode you can select from - being the quietest possible, to Turbo mode (Fans a-blazing). If you're using good speakers or headphones, the fan noise shouldn't be a problem.
* When the unit gets going after a while, the keyboard doesn't get very warm - the warm air is ventilated out of the machine's back side efficiently to help with user keyboard comfort.
* Dedicated volume buttons at the top, keyboard has good feedback and is not clackity. 4 gaming keys on the left side (ASDW) work great with the W having the nub on it so you can know you're on the correct keys without looking at the keyboard.
* Provided speakers are quite adequate and sound better than most other laptops I have used.
CONS:
-----------
* Though gaming performance is quite good, using other graphics and video editing software left a little to be desired compared to the competition. But this is a GAMING laptop, so keep that in mind.
* No webcam. Huge miss by ASUS in my opinion. Having a webcam kind of speaks for itself and would be a great add.
* At 340 nits, the brightness could be a bit brighter for daytime playing.
OTHER OBSERVATIONS:
-----------------------------------
* Styling is nice with an interchangeable color corner (red, clear-dark, and silver) piece. The underglow RGB lighting is QUITE cool, especially when playing in a dark area.
* Aluminum top with a little flex, plastic bottom. 5.5 lbs is a little on the heavy side.
* Ginormous power brick if you need space in your backpack.
* Upgradeable to 32GB RAM, however be careful when taking off the bottom as small & delicate ribbon cables can be damaged.
* There are no ports on the right side which will make right-handers happy (for mouse play, no cables getting in the way) - see attached photos for port placements.
* When opening the box, ASUS uses their usual laptop pop-up mechanism which raises the laptop out of the box as it opens.
CONCLUSION:
===================
One of the better gaming laptops for the money out there, especially given the battery life and performance. ASUS upped their game with this Strix G15 Advantage. If you're looking for an upgrade, I would definitely recommend this one, an all-AMD platform that doesn't disappoint and doesn't break the bank. Not having a webcam is the biggest knock, but not enough to take it down a star-rating.
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
+3points
3of 3voted this as helpful.
 
<< 1 ... 3 4 5 6 7 ... 13 >>
 
BADog's Review Comments
 
BADog has not submitted comments on any reviews.
 
BADog's Questions
 
BADog has not submitted any questions.
 
BADog's Answers
<< 1 2
 
Garmin Speak™ Plus with Amazon Alexa is what you love about Amazon Alexa, now in your vehicle. Use voice control for hands-free access to music, news, navigation and more. Plus, a built-in dash cam gives you forward collision and lane departure warnings.
 

Wading through all the info it looks like just what I need. However, I want to make sure all the language referencing Bluetooth access to my phone means I have hands-free calling/answering ability.

you can have BT calling ability, however it won't be with Alexa's help. It will be through your car's BT connection... and yes, you can have the car AND the device connected at the same time assuming you have a phone that has that capability. I was using a Samsung Note 8.
6 years, 2 months ago
by
BADog
 
Garmin Speak™ Plus with Amazon Alexa is what you love about Amazon Alexa, now in your vehicle. Use voice control for hands-free access to music, news, navigation and more. Plus, a built-in dash cam gives you forward collision and lane departure warnings.
 

Does this take a sd card? And if so what is the largest it can hold?

I think the max is 64GB. It comes with an 8GB microSD card.
6 years, 2 months ago
by
BADog
 
Garmin Speak™ Plus with Amazon Alexa is what you love about Amazon Alexa, now in your vehicle. Use voice control for hands-free access to music, news, navigation and more. Plus, a built-in dash cam gives you forward collision and lane departure warnings.
 

Does it always have to be plugged in to a power source or does it have a built-in battery that can run without being plugged in? Also, how does the collision, lane departure and traffic "go" features work? seems to good to be true.

No built-in battery. You must supply it power via microUSB input. "Go" features are hit and miss.
6 years, 2 months ago
by
BADog
 
Garmin Speak™ Plus with Amazon Alexa is what you love about Amazon Alexa, now in your vehicle. Use voice control for hands-free access to music, news, navigation and more. Plus, a built-in dash cam gives you forward collision and lane departure warnings.
 

With all these features, Does it scan the road and next to the road for objects such as DEER ? If so will it alert you ?

No... and you can't say "Alexa, scan the side of the road for deer" either. :)
6 years, 2 months ago
by
BADog
 
Garmin Speak™ Plus with Amazon Alexa is what you love about Amazon Alexa, now in your vehicle. Use voice control for hands-free access to music, news, navigation and more. Plus, a built-in dash cam gives you forward collision and lane departure warnings.
 

Built-in Front DashCam, that's good, how about the rear view? Do I need to buy 2 separate add-on camera module for recording rearview

This device only records in one direction - whichever way you face it. If you want multi-directional video recording, you'll need another setup or multiple cameras.
6 years, 2 months ago
by
BADog
 
Garmin Speak™ Plus with Amazon Alexa is what you love about Amazon Alexa, now in your vehicle. Use voice control for hands-free access to music, news, navigation and more. Plus, a built-in dash cam gives you forward collision and lane departure warnings.
 

How much 4G data does this use if I use it to stream music while driving? My cellular carrier has 10 GB limit before throttling my speed to 2G.

It uses the same amount of data your phone uses to stream the same thing. Since there is no video being streamed over the air, there won't be a significant increase in data usage whether you use your phone for music or through Alexa... it's still all going thru your phone.
6 years, 2 months ago
by
BADog
 
Garmin Speak™ Plus with Amazon Alexa is what you love about Amazon Alexa, now in your vehicle. Use voice control for hands-free access to music, news, navigation and more. Plus, a built-in dash cam gives you forward collision and lane departure warnings.
 

I ordered the speak plus. I have a 2013 infiniti FX 37. I scheduled Geek squad installation and need to know if there is any additional hardware that I need to buy to have it installed. I want the power source to be from the veh no visible cords.

If you don't want to plug into the DC outlet of the car, then yeah, you will need an adapter from AutoZone (or similar) that will allow you to tap into the fuse area either with the DC power adapter provided or by cutting that off and using the 2 wires inside the power cord sheath.
6 years, 2 months ago
by
BADog
 
Beats EP on-ear headphones delivers masterfully tuned sound. Its battery-free design offers unlimited playback and its sleek, durable frame is reinforced with lightweight stainless steel. Beats EP is an ideal introduction to Beats for any music lover seeking a dynamic listening experience.
 

what kinda case do these fit in? and were can I get one?

These headphones come in a mesh bag - but if you need a case, it would have to be the size of the box they come in - as they are NOT foldable. Your best bet would be to put them in the original box for transport because it's quite stable and takes up the least amount of space.
6 years, 3 months ago
by
BADog
 
Enhance your listening experience with these Plantronics headphones. They wirelessly connect to any Bluetooth-enabled device to eliminate the hassle of traditional corded models, and they work with Siri, Cortana and other virtual assistants for convenient control. A single charge lasts up to 18 hours, so you can listen to your Plantronics headphones worry-free all day long.
 

How could I use this wireless headphone to connect to a Panasonic Vierra TV which is not bluetooth enabled?

You'd obviously have to get a BT adapter for the TV. If your TV doesn't have BT, then you have to get it BT somehow and make sure all audio connections are compatible (ie. optical, RCA, HDMI, etc)
6 years, 3 months ago
by
BADog
 
LG’s SJ7 Sound Bar Flex offers endless entertainment from a versatile dual-speaker design: The two main speakers can be placed in front of the TV, or to the left/right vertically or in front of and behind the listener for an even more cinematic experience. Both speakers are Bluetooth, and the right unit has a built-in battery, so it can work independently just about anywhere.
 

Can the LED display on speaker be turned off?

It can't be turned completely off; however, it is brighter after a key touch... then 15 seconds later, it dims automatically until a key is pressed again. You can always put electrical tape over that area if needed.
6 years, 8 months ago
by
BADog