BillFromKC's stats
- Review count196
- Helpfulness votes763
- First reviewJune 27, 2012
- Last reviewJune 23, 2024
- Featured reviews0
- Average rating4.5
- Review comment count8
- Helpfulness votes10
- First review commentAugust 27, 2015
- Last review commentFebruary 19, 2017
- Featured review comments0
Questions
- Question count0
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- First questionNone
- Last questionNone
- Featured questions0
- Answer count68
- Helpfulness votes38
- First answerJanuary 9, 2014
- Last answerNovember 5, 2021
- Featured answers0
- Best answers9
Ensure full power for your mobile devices during long drives with this Anker ROAV Bolt car charger. It’s compatible with Google Assistant for voice-controlled navigation and music streaming, and it supports versatile connectivity via Bluetooth, and auxiliary port. This Anker ROAV Bolt car charger’s compact, lightweight design offers convenient portability and storage.
Customer Rating
4
The perfect travel buddy for your rental car.
on April 20, 2019
Posted by: BillFromKC
from KCMO
I received this product in exchange for my fair and unbiased review.
The Anker Bolt with Google is a little bit of a mixed bag. It’s a high-quality Bluetooth audio adapter for your car that lacks that functionality. It’s a decent hands-free phone solution for your vehicle that lacks Bluetooth connectivity. Google Assistant works well enough, especially for those of you who use Google for home automation (including myself). For parents with teenagers that can’t put the phone down, it’s a good way for them to stay connected without looking at their phone.
Where the Bolt with Google excels, however, is a plug and an aux cord you can take with you to keep your phone connected to multiple cars without dealing with pairing and repairing your phone every single time, or wondering if you deleted your pairing from a vehicle which means you potentially left your contact information on it.
One of the cool things is how Google Assistant can interact with your apps while using the Bolt with Google. Among my installed apps, it works with Gmail, Twitter, Facebook Messenger, Google Hangouts, and the My Verizon app. It doesn’t currently work with Microsoft Office apps, Snapchat, Google Duo, and Google Voice (which is strange since Voice and Duo are Google apps).
One thing I noticed is the audio quality. While nothing beats the aux cable and a high quality DAC, it’s still very passable; 256kbps Apple Music sounded better through the Bolt with Google than with any Bluetooth audio adapter I’ve tried, and slightly better than Bluetooth audio built into my Alpine UTE-73 head unit.
The only complaint I have about this device is it lacks HD voice, so calls over Facebook, Google Hangouts, Facetime Audio, and Verizon’s LTE network all sound like they’re being made on an older non-HD voice capable phone. Maybe this can be fixed with a firmware update?
All in all, it’s a great travel companion that’ll get better as Google makes improvements to the software.
Mobile Submission: True
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Polished, professional Full HD video calls. The C920S HD Webcam delivers remarkably crisp, clear and detailed images in vibrant colors. HD autofocus and light correction adjust to provide consistently high definition, and the dual mics on either side of the lens capture natural sound. The privacy shutter puts you in control of what you show.
Customer Rating
5
Solid webcam for those that need one
on April 8, 2019
Posted by: BillFromKC
from KCMO
I received this product in exchange for my fair and unbiased opinion.
The Logitech C920S Pro may not be the most fully-featured webcam on the market today, but it has plenty of features, solid video quality, and that legendary quality that dates back to the original QuickCam series of webcams.
Video is clear, even in darker rooms. Frame rates are a solid 30 FPS at HD resolutions (1080 and 720) and can hit 60 FPS at lower non-HD resolutions; a glass lens helps immensely with keeping the picture clear. The stereo microphones are some of the best I've heard on any webcam; while not nearly as good as a stand-alone microphone, it's better than the built-in mics in most computers. Cortana, Siri, and dictation on both Mac and Windows worked great with the mic.
It mounts with ease over a TV set or monitor, and it has an added bonus of a standard camera screw mount on its base that allows you to place it securely on a fixed mount or a tripod.
One thing not mentioned by Logitech in their packaging or support documents is this webcam also works with Android devices, such as a Sony Android-based TV or NVidia Shield. "Hey Google" and speech to text, along with HD video is supported.
All in all, the Logitech C920S Pro is terrific. It's a webcam for wherever you'd need one.
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Expand device connectivity with this Belkin DuraTek Plus Lightning to USB-A cable. A rugged design with fiber-reinforced conductors ensures lasting durability, while the included strap and snap button improve portability and prevent tangles. Measuring 6 feet long, this Belkin DuraTek Plus Lightning to USB-A cable makes it easy to access hard-to-reach outlets.
Customer Rating
4
Strong, but a little overpriced.
on March 10, 2019
Posted by: BillFromKC
from KCMO
I received this product in return for my fair and unbiased opinion.
Belkin’s Duratek charge cables for iPhone fit a niche that some iPhone users have. They’re a strong cable that won’t easily fail from bending and flexing like many Lightning cables will. They support a full-speed 12 watt charge. The cloth overing over the cables definitely reinforces the strength of the wires. The connectors are some of the most solid on the market.
The only two weak spots I can point out are the snap scratches very easily amd the price is just a little high compared to other options on the market.
I can recommend this cable, but there are options that are just as good and not quite as expensive.
Mobile Submission: True
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Listen to customized audio with these black JLab Fit Sport wireless fitness earbuds. Signature, Balanced and Bass Boost modes let you set sound quality preferences, and the adjustable tip placement and flexible memory wire provide a secure, comfortable fit. Recharge these JLab Fit Sport wireless fitness earbuds via the included microUSB cable to enjoy up to six hours of playback.
Customer Rating
5
Another winner from JLab
on November 28, 2018
Posted by: BillFromKC
from KCMO
Disclaimer - I received this product in exchange for my fair and unbiased review.
JLab makes some good audio products for the price. They've always had well-rounded sound, good battery life, and a good feature set, and are generally well built. Their customer service has also been easy to deal with in the past.
So when I saw the FitSport Wireless earbuds, I knew I wanted to review them. I'm glad I did.
I have other, more expensive pairs of earbuds and in-ear monitors that cost between three and ten times what these do. Some of those more expensive earbuds have lesser audio quality, some have shorter battery life. The FitSport Wireless compares favorably to all of them because they live up to their 6 hour battery life claim while listening to anything from rapid-fire metal to bass-heavy electronic music, with little distortion unless you turn the volume up to 11 (if you've seen "This Is Spinal Tap", you'll know the reference) and set the EQ for more bass response.
Speaking of, these headphones have a nice feature that is generally reserved for more expensive earbuds and headphones - a built-in EQ. While it's not a nice software-controlled EQ like you'd find in high-end headphones and earbuds, it does give you three modes - balanced (the equivalent of flat), bass boost (where the low-end gets cranked up), and JLab Signature Sound (which cranks up the highs and lows for heavy bass and crisp treble). All three modes worked well, but like previously stated, turning the volume all the way up with the bass level boosted does lead to some distortion.
The ear tips are also a pleasure. The "wings" do a good job of holding the buds in place when you're active, and with FOUR choices of ear tips, you'll find a good fit (I preferred the large silicone tips, but the foam "Cloud" tips were pretty nice).
These earbuds also report battery life to iOS devices. They didn't report battery life to my Android 7.1 tablet, however. Some Android devices may receive the battery life information, however.
All in all, you can't beat the value of these ear buds.
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Use the Google Smart Light Starter Kit to control the lights using just your voice. Set up in a snap: just plug in Google Home Mini, screw in the GE C-Life smart light bulb, and download the Google Home app to get started. Then just say "Hey Google" to dim, brighten, turn on and turn off the lights."
Customer Rating
2
Good idea, poor execution
on November 28, 2018
Posted by: BillFromKC
from KCMO
Disclaimer - I was given this product in return for my fair and honest review.
TL;DR version - this would be okay for apartment dwellers, but the Google Smart Light Starter Kit featuring the C-Life by GE bulb is otherwise a 4-star smart speaker with tons of features and smarts paired with a "smart" lightbulb that isn't exactly smart. Also, a bad value for its regular price, but the "smart bulbs" themselves are also a bad value compared to other superior options for around their same price point.
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The Google Smart Light Starter Kit will always look enticing to the unknowing consumer, because who doesn't like the idea of including a smart lightbulb (in this case, C-Life by GE) with a Google Home Mini smart speaker for a decent overall price compared to buying the speaker and a smart bulb by themselves?
Looks can be deceiving.
I'm not going to talk much about the Google Home Mini (referred to as a GHM from here on out), because if you're reading this, chances are that you know it's a small smart speaker device that you can get answers to your questions from and control most home automation devices from nearly every manufacturer with. Unlike non-Google brand Google Assistant speakers, you can also use it with the FREE Google Voice VoIP phone service - just like with its big brothers, the Google Home and the Google Home Max - to make outgoing phone calls with terrific audio quality (but not to receive incoming calls or contact emergency services). With more and more abilities being added to Google Assistant, you can use it to order food, electronics, clothing, and more though various retailers that have embraced the service. It also functions as a Chromecast Audio receiver and can control your Chromecast-equipped TV, speakers, or your Android TV-based smart TV. If the next version of the GHM were to add an audio output, the GHM is the perfect small smart speaker in my book. But enough about that, because there are tons of reviews and articles about the GHM and how awesome it is.
What I am going to talk about is the the other part of the package package. A decent enough smart speaker that I would give 4 stars to in its current iteration is brought down by what GE passes off as a "smart" bulb. For me, there's not enough of a feature set here to justify calling it smart. While you can turn the bulb on and off and set its brightness via the Google Home app or through Google Assistant, that's about it for the bulb's "smarts".
It also uses a Bluetooth connection that requires the GHM that comes in the package; powering down the GHM it's paired to effectively makes the smart bulb the equivalent of a cheap LED bulb you'd pick up in your local hardware store, and Bluetooth's limited range compared to WiFi means the GHM and the bulb need to be placed in close proximity with each other. Metallic light fixtures, water pipes, HVAC ducting, and electrical wiring affect the usable range distance between the GHM and the bulb. A setup note for the C-Life bulb states that if you use multiple bulbs, they can create a mesh network, but all bulbs need to be placed within 40 feet of each other.
The good about this kit is it's at least extremely easy to set up. You set up the GHM inside the Google Home app on your Android device (Kit Kat or later with a Bluetooth 4.0LE capability) or iOS (iPhone 5, iPod Touch 5, iPad 4rd Gen, or iPad Mini 2 or later device running iOS 10 or later), and then you're prompted by the Google Home app to pair the C by GE bulb to the GHM. Sorry PC and Mac users, you need a portable device to get this going.
I did try to pair the bulb with other Google Assistant smart speakers I have that aren't the GHM in the package via the Google Home app (I have 3 different brands, all with Bluetooth 4 connectivity). None of the other speakers were able to discover up the C-Life lightbulb, which means to use C-Life lightbulbs with Google Assistant, you pretty much need a GHM or other Google-branded smart speaker. If you're looking at the "Made for Google" C-Life or C-Sleep bulbs and you have a non-Google brand Google Assistant speaker, it's just not going to work.
The good news here, at least, is that you can control the bulb away from home as long as it maintains a connection with the GHM. My GHM and C-Life are located about 15 feet apart and the two devices have lost connection with each other a few times, but nothing a quick power cycle can't fix (in each case, it was always resetting the bulb).
While the lightbulb can pair with the C by GE app for iPhone and Android, this also gives you a basic Bluetooth-connected remote controlled lightbulb and the inability to control it away from home. Because of this, I highly recommend that you stay completely away from GE's app when it comes to this bulb, because you will have issues getting it to work with the GHM if you have previously paired it with the C by GE app. (I did try this by the way; it's a major pain to unpair a C-Life bulb from any device because of the strangest on-off cycling pattern you need to follow to factory reset it.) Also, the bulbs can only pair with ONE device, be it a GHM or a phone. Once paired with a GHM, however, you can use multiple devices with the Google Home app installed to control the bulb; you'll just need to do the "Invite" thing inside of the Google Home app so people on other Google accounts can use the C-Life bulb and all of the other smart devices you have under Google Home's control.
The C by GE app also warns you that you should really pair the C-Life bulb with the GHM and not the app. (I ignored this warning in the name of science.)
Like I said, a decent 4-star speaker is brought down by a lightbulb pretending that it's smart. While I might recommend this for apartment dwellers, I highly recommend that you look into other ways of doing smart lighting in your home or apartment. WiFi-connected smart bulbs from other manufacturers are inexpensive and far more flexible. Lighting systems based on Z-Wave, ZigBee, Wink, and other protocols have greater range than the Bluetooth-connected C by GE lightbulbs. Finally, the GHM and other Google Assistant smart speakers can be had on the cheap. Now if you can find the Smart Light Starter Kit for the same price as a GHM by itself, then go for it since you'd get a free remote-controlled lightbulb.
Mobile Submission: False
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
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Concoct fresh, healthy smoothies with this Nutri Ninja Auto-iQ single-serve blender. Pro Extractor Blades and a powerful 1000W motor provide efficient performance, and it comes with 18-oz. and 24-oz. Tritan cups with spout lids for travel-friendly drinking. This intelligent Nutri Ninja Auto-iQ single-serve blender has preprogrammed settings for easy, quick operation.
Customer Rating
5
Perfect for making a quick frozen drink
on October 24, 2018
Posted by: BillFromKC
from KCMO
I received this product in exchange for my fair and unbiased review.
The Ninja brand did it again. They released an overpowered blending system, this time for individual beverages (along with soups and dressings) that works perfectly. Within 2 minutes, you can fill a cup with fruit and a liquid of your choice, screw on the blending base, hit the autoIQ blend button, wait around a minute for the beverage to blend, change the blend base with a flip-top lid, and have a tasty beverage. Smoothies, shakes, doesn’t matter - this thing gets it right every time.
The only drawback is owners of some other Nutri Ninja blending systems - myself included (I also own a Nutri Ninja BlendMax system) will find the individual cup bases may not be cross compatible. This isn’t a dealbreaker for me, but something I think should be incorporated into any company’s design process when they make a family of products under a shared name. Some may also feel the base is rather large; considering the Nutri Ninja has at least twice to up to 5 times the power of competing products, the base can’t be much smaller without creating heat problems.
All in all, another great product from the Ninja brand.
Mobile Submission: True
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+1point
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Optimize your viewing experience on this 23-inch Dell LCD monitor. Its Full HD IPS screen lets you see content from almost any angle. Easily connect a laptop or a PC to the VGA and HDMI ports on this Dell LCD monitor.
Customer Rating
5
Solid color quality straight out of the box.
on October 17, 2018
Posted by: BillFromKC
from KCMO
Disclaimer - I received this monitor in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Dell has been a company known for decent computers and, surprisingly, legendary monitors. Back in the CRT days, they used Sony Trinitron tubes - the absolute best in the industry. Their pro line screens, the UltraSharp series, are some of the best displays in the industry (and even a go-to for Apple users).
Their consumer LCD monitors were also generally good, but overpriced for their features and quality. However, I do believe Dell has finally figured it out with their current line of consumer monitors, which include the S2319NX display.
The monitor itself is pretty decent before you turn it on. The base is solid and the screen has very little wobble compared to many other consumer-model screens. The only things I would have wanted to see at this price point are a fully-adjustable base and VESA mounting holes on the back side of the screen; a second HDMI port and built-in power supply would have also been nice.
Power it on and I'm greeted to the a couple of firsts:
- the first glossy screen that I actually like.
- the first monitor I've purchased in years that only needed a brightness adjustment.
- the first monitor I've purchased in years that only needed a brightness adjustment.
A really thoughtful feature was also that this monitor can manage audio from two sources; there is an analog audio input that pairs with a VGA port, so those of us who will use this screen with an older computer and a gaming console, a cable box, a media player, or even in a 2 computer setup can connect our speakers straight to the audio output of the screen, allowing the screen to switch both the video and auto source for you. This is where the additional HDMI port would have come in handy, as this monitor could be used as a dorm room TV when paired with a streaming sick.
All in all, I highly recommend this monitor for consumer use.
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Maximize your broadcast viewing enjoyment with this flat-panel ANTOP outdoor HDTV antenna. It captures UHF and VHF signals within its powerful 65-mile reception range, and its durable exterior resists moisture and UV damage. Install this ANTOP outdoor HDTV antenna on a wall or pole via its mounting bracket, or place it indoors with the included stand.
Customer Rating
5
A whole lot of antenna for its size
on July 14, 2018
Posted by: BillFromKC
from KCMO
Disclaimer - I received this product in exchange for my fair and honest review.
TL;DR version - The Antop AT-400 directional antenna does a lot of things well, especially for the price. It comes with everything you'll need to get up and running with a single TV inside the box. It's relatively stylish for a medium-sized TV antenna, It's design is compact for the range it covers, it doesn't require power or outdoor mounting like some other competing antennas, and it's easy to setup. The only drawback is it requires you to point the broad side of the antenna toward where your OTA TV signals come from as it's a directional antenna.
The longer part of the review:
Setting up the Antop AT-400 is a relatively easy endeavor. You have several mounting options; I chose to use the tabletop stand that clicks into the bottom of the antenna, though it comes with the hardware to wall, attic, or pole mount inside or outside of your home. (Remember to use proper grounding for outside installation.) It also comes with 40 feet of cable in the box, which is more than enough to locate the antenna to a spot it will work well in and connect to your TV set. For attic and exterior mounting, The antenna can be oriented vertically or horizontally; for pole mounting and tabletop stand use, you'll orient the antenna vertically. For aiming the antenna, you can use Antop's website or AntennaWeb.org, or an app like AntennaPoint to help determine where it should be oriented.
Since I'm relatively close to broadcast towers (between 9 and 15 miles on average), I did a few things to simulate longer distances -
1) Tested in the basement with the antenna located behind cinderblock walls.
2) Tested using a 7dB loss splitter connected to 2 TVs and two other tuning devices (4 way splitter).
3) Tested orienting the antenna toward a broadcaster 52 miles from my house (according to AntennaWeb's website).
1) Tested in the basement with the antenna located behind cinderblock walls.
2) Tested using a 7dB loss splitter connected to 2 TVs and two other tuning devices (4 way splitter).
3) Tested orienting the antenna toward a broadcaster 52 miles from my house (according to AntennaWeb's website).
In the case of the basement testing, the antenna worked without issues, still showing strong signals for the closer towers and medium-strong signals on the more distant towers located locally. In the case of the splitter, all local channels came in perfectly clear with strong signals. In the case of the tower not located locally, the signal was fair but good enough to display a clear picture with almost zero breakups.
Style-wise, it's not something I would place in my living room but the AT-400's design is quite nice for outdoor placement. It's similar in style to an antenna element on a cell phone tower. It being a stark white will contrast nicely with the exterior color of most homes. I do, however, recommend attic placement if it's possible as you don't have to worry about grounding with an interior installation. Also, unlike some other solutions, you don't have to deal with an amplifier or power injection to get the most out of the range of this antenna.
All in all, I call this a win. Flexible mounting options, able to run multiple TVs with few issues, and stylish too.
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+16points
18of 20voted this as helpful.
Connect your iPhone to your car stereo or home speakers for effortless sharing with this Belkin Lightning to aux cable. The single 3-foot cable connection is compatible with the iPhone 7 Plus and up, while the 3.5mm jack works with a range of speakers and car stereo setups. Featuring MFi certification, this Belkin Lightning to aux cable keeps up with iOS updates.
Customer Rating
5
Great as an aux cable or a short headphone cable
on June 27, 2018
Posted by: BillFromKC
from KCMO
Disclaimer - I received this product in exchange for my fair and unbiased review.
The Belkin Lightning to 3.5mm aux cable solves a problem owners of the iPhone 7, 8 and X face - how to connect their phone to their car radio or other wired speaker. While Belkin does make other solutions for this problem in their Rockstar line of iPhone accessories, none are as elegant as the Lighting to 3.5mm aux cable is (as long as you don't need to charge your phone simultaneously). Just plug in and go, no additional cables needed.
On top of aux jack connectivity in the car or on a speaker, this cable can also be used as a short headphone cable if your headphones have a removable cable using the 3.5mm connector; this worked great with my Plantronics RIG-series gaming headphones. Audio quality is every bit as good as the stock headphone dongle that comes with recent iPhones, which means it sounds better than bluetooth in the car.
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Wacom Intuos wireless pen tablet has been designed for those who are getting started drawing, painting or photo editing with their Mac, PC, Chromebook or select Android smartphones/tablets. Enjoy the convenience of wireless creating with built in Bluetooth - or connect the graphics tablet directly to your computer with the included USB cable. Whether it’s the pressure-sensitive pen, the stylish design, the included software or online tutorials, Wacom Intuos is all you need to get creative digitally. Wacom Intuos can also be used to easily write, edit or convey ideas to in education or remote work settings. This product works with devices capable of running the latest version of Chrome OS and has been certified to meet Google's compatibility standards. Google is not responsible for the operation of this product or its compliance with safety requirements. Chromebook, Android, and the Works With Chromebook badge are trademarks of Google LLC.
Customer Rating
5
The graphics tablet I've always wanted
on June 13, 2018
Posted by: BillFromKC
from KCMO
I received this product in exchange for my fair and unbiased review.
The Wacom Intuos Bluetooth drawing tablet is one of the greatest tools you can have in your arsenal if you use Photoshop, Illustrator, or pretty much any other graphic app. If you've previously used a Wacom tablet, this will be immediately familiar. However, it adds probably the greatest caveat you can have with a graphics tablet - BLUETOOTH CONNECTIVITY! Finally, you can use your Wacom tablet and not worry about that pesky cord.
I tested this tablet with a Mac running El Capitan 10.11.6 with Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator CS5. Upon installing the driver for this device, both programs immediately picked up on the device and were ready to go. Pressure sensitivity was flawless, and all the functionality you'd expect from a Wacom tablet was there.
The only drawback I've found so far is disabling "mouse mode" on the tablet. You can use the pen in place of a mouse or other pointing device if you'd like, but I found this functionality annoying. Still, not enough to subtract a star from the score.
If you're hard-core into digital art, I can't recommend this tablet enough.
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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BillFromKC's Review Comments
Westinghouse HDTV: Enjoy your favorite movies, shows, games and sporting events in realistic 1080p resolution on this Westinghouse HDTV's LED panel. Ensure fast-moving scenes remain clear with a 60Hz refresh rate that minimizes blurring and ghosting.
Overall
1 out of 5
1 out of 5No HD tuner
By Westingtonhouse
I can not imagine that tv in today time do not have digiter tuner. I bought 6 now I have to return them since i use cable straight from wall for tv from COX
BillFromKC
KCMO
This TV has an ATSC tuner.
August 27, 2015
There's no guarantee that ATSC tuners will work with ClearQAM cable channels, and even so, the greater majority of cable providers now scramble all cable channels. Including OTA channels. Because the FCC changed the rules and they're allowed to do this now.
+6points
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Sony XBR55X850C LED 4K Ultra HD TV: Experience your favorite movies, TV shows and video clips in a new way with incredible 4K upscaling. Advanced features from Android TV and Playstation Now allow you to browse sites, stream games and perform voice searches.
Overall1 out of 5
1 out of 5Big Time 3-D problems
By Mike
I am writing to review the “XBR-55X850C”. HOWEVER, I have read multiple web pages that state this problem is happening with all Sony 3-D televisions, in the United States AND Europe, and that customers are not receiving ANY customer service, or any help from Sony whatsoever.
I have called 3 times and have been hung up on each time.
So, if you are looking for a great 3-D experience and excellent SONY customer service, LOOK ELSEWHERE. Sony rolled out an update for this television at the end of November of 2015. After the update, when viewing 3-D content, the display mode function of the current screen is continuously showing the current screen mode of the television. ALL THE TIME. Coming in and out up to 7 times a minute.
So, while watching a 3-D movie, every 5 to 60 seconds, the words “Wide Mode Full” flashes on the screen in the lower left hand corner. It NEVER stops. Sony is aware of this problem, unfortunately, Sony customer service is rude & unhelpful with this issue. They claim that “Sony is aware of this and is working on an update”. When I asked when the update would be released, Sony representatives claim they do not know when this update will be available.
Every Sony representative has hung up on me after not being able to satisfactorily answer the simplest of questions.
Anyone looking for a great 3-D experience, look elsewhere. Sony does not care about this problem. After all, they already have our money.
If you think this is the same old Sony with great products, high standards, and great customer service, THINK AGAIN! This is not your father’s Sony. This is the new, corporate Sony that just wants your money.
Everyone out there looking for a good 3-D T.V. should stick with Samsung. I wish I did. I thought I was “upgrading” from Samsung to Sony.
BillFromKC
KCMO
Customer service people are never told when...
January 2, 2016
...things get fixed after they get broken. I have this TV as well, and customer service people have no idea when Android Marshmallow will hit this TV set, let alone any of the other 2015 Sony TVs. Considering the Google Nexus Player got borked by the update though, that's probably a good thing the update hasn't hit yet.
0points
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Sony XBR55X850C LED 4K Ultra HD TV: Experience your favorite movies, TV shows and video clips in a new way with incredible 4K upscaling. Advanced features from Android TV and Playstation Now allow you to browse sites, stream games and perform voice searches.
Overall4 out of 5
4 out of 5tv is great support is non-existent
By ohno
I have been trying to get some confirmation on the hdr xtended dynamic range on the 850b but support on phone sent me unrelated information and online say it is but no documentation to confirm
BillFromKC
KCMO
850b doesn't have HDR support
January 14, 2016
but the 850c (this TV) does.
0points
0of 0voted this comment as helpful.
BISSELL SmartClean Robot Vacuum: Easily rid your floors of dirt and debris with this vacuum that uses Opticlean optical sensors and a Triple-Action Cleaning System to tackle your floors. Invisible Wall technology lets you target specific areas.
Overall
3 out of 5
3 out of 5Hard To Program
By FortFun2
from Illinois
Found it is difficult, not intuitive, to program. Others have said if you loose power all your programming is lost, but we haven't lost power yet so can't confirm. I just wanted it to run when I left the house without a set program and contacting Bissell just led to more confusion. But, once I got it working I was impressed with the amount of pet hair it removed.
BillFromKC
KCMO
I can attest to this.
September 16, 2016
Sometimes, I have to plug mine directly into the charger to get it to charge because the battery is overly drained. Because of this, I don't even bother programming it anymore.
0points
0of 0voted this comment as helpful.
The new MacBook Pro is faster and more powerful than before, yet remarkably thinner and lighter.¹ It has the brightest, most colorful display ever on a Mac notebook. And it features up to 10 hours of battery life.² It’s a notebook built for the work you do every day. Ready to go anywhere a great idea takes you.
Overall1 out of 5
1 out of 5Terrible
By Joel
I purchased this one month ago and it has a faulty display. Best Buy takes no responsibility and will not exchange it for a good one. I have left voicemails for a district manager to call me and no one has called. I will never shop at Best Buy again.
BillFromKC
KCMO
Yep, take it to Apple.
January 13, 2017
If Best Buy is doing you wrong, just take it to your nearest Apple location and they'll set you up with a fix or a new one.
+4points
4of 4voted this comment as helpful.
![The Secret Life of Pets [DVD] [2016]](https://pisces.bbystatic.com/image2/BestBuy_US/images/products/5431/5431203_sa.jpg)
Overall1 out of 5
1 out of 5Bootleg Copy of Secret Life of Pets
By Disappointed
About 15 minutes into the movie the volume became muted and a message came on the TV that this was a bootleg movie. An unauthorized copy. Be very careful purchasing DVD's or Blu Ray movies from Best Buy. They just may leave you and your grand children very disappointed as it did our family.
BillFromKC
KCMO
This could very well be your DVD or Blu-Ray player
January 20, 2017
causing your issues. The Film Industry (MPAA and associated groups) are known for their draconian DRM systems, first with DVD and now with Blu-Ray and 4k Blu-Ray.
if your Blu-Ray player isn't connected to the internet, connect it to the internet and update its firmware. That should fix all your issues.
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Make your home an internet haven with this versatile Linksys Velop wireless Wi-Fi system. Three identical tri-band dual-stream AC2200 routers, each equipped with a quad-core ARM Cortex-A7 processor, deliver lightning-fast internet. Equipped with Bluetooth 4.0/LE, this Linksys Velop wireless Wi-Fi system is simple to set up and pairs easily with computers, tablets and smart devices.
Overall5 out of 5
5 out of 5This is the future of WiFi
By neio11
I threw (recycled) away my wifi extenders plus I am now able connect a device with an ethernet cable without having to run cables through the walls because each node has 2 ethernet ports. So for instance, I have one node connected to my modem and an ethernet switch. My 2nd node in another room is connected to an NVR for my security cameras. The speed through the nodes is surprisingly fast. The NVR is capturing HD videos from 3 cameras and it seems to capture fine. The 3rd node is in my living room area. The whole house is covered! Please put a password on your wifi otherwise you'll be supplying FREE wifi for your neighbors. I can have full internet access from 3-4 houses away from my house. I thought installation would be a pain considering you have to setup each node. Well, I shouldn't say "have to" because you don't have to use all 3 nodes. You can use only 1 or 2 and give the 3rd to me. haha. No but setup is a breeze! The only thing is that you have to use a smart device such as a tablet or phone, to do the setup. Velop currently doesn't support PC-based setup but I hope Linksys changes that especially for us "techies"!!! It works with Alexa. You can ask #Alexa what the wifi password is... so they say. I haven't had much success with it yet. It looks clean and neat. It doesn't all those antennas sticking out of it which makes it aesthetically pleasing.
I'm loving so far!
BillFromKC
KCMO
The setup process basically forces you to put a...
February 19, 2017
...password on your WiFi network. In fact, it's one of three things it asks when you set up the parent node, the other two being "Do you connect directly to the internet or through a modem/router device provided by your ISP?" and what to call your wireless network.
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Make your home an internet haven with this versatile Linksys Velop wireless Wi-Fi system. Three identical tri-band dual-stream AC2200 routers, each equipped with a quad-core ARM Cortex-A7 processor, deliver lightning-fast internet. Equipped with Bluetooth 4.0/LE, this Linksys Velop wireless Wi-Fi system is simple to set up and pairs easily with computers, tablets and smart devices.
Overall5 out of 5
5 out of 5Blazing Speed, Best In Class Performance!
By gadgetguy11
The Linksys - Velop Tri-Band Whole Home Wi-Fi System (3-pack) is packaged in a beautiful & functional box with magnetic closure - it exudes quality! Each Node is protected individually. Just looking at the box, you expect a premium, esoteric product... & Linksys delivers that & more in spades! The shapely Nodes are beautiful & blend with any decorating style.
Simple set-up via the Linksys iOS or Android App. Within minutes, you are ready to go online.
As shown in attached photo, I have 90 wireless devices utilized over 5,000 sq feet / 3 floors: this is a challenging application for high speed Wi-Fi that includes: connected major appliances; BAS ceiling fans & Haiku Wi-Fi connected lights; Wi-Fi Thermostats; Netatmo Wi-Fi Weather Station; 65 Hue Lights; Connected exterior door locks; Wink Wi-Fi connected devices; connected iDevices, Nest & Arlo cameras; iPads; iPhones & computers. Finally, Streaming from 4) Apple TV's; Nixplay Wi-Fi Photo Frames.
And now the Results:
Velop delivers the fastest Wi-Fi speed I have ever experienced and does so consistently! The attached screen capture shows 349 Mbps Download / 23 Mbps Upload. These are WIRELESS speeds!! I pay for 300 Mbps Download / 30 Mbps Upload & our internet service provider generally delivers 300 - 360 Download & 22 - 32 Upload.
Velop is the only Wi-Fi System I have found to date that actually delivers this sustainable speed and does not randomly disconnect the many devices.
High power Wi-Fi requires a high current source. Each of the 3) square white power supplies produce 12 Volt, 2 Amp output! 24VA (Volt Amps) is the highest output of any router I have tested. Better yet, the cable that plugs into each Velop is perfectly angled at the plug so the wire routs neatly through the cable management feature at the base. Brilliant design!
PRO's:
1- Fastest Wi-Fi Speed
2- Easy approximate 10 minute Set-up per hub
3- Velop Nodes are very attractive & blend with any architecture
4- Robust infrastructure yields dependable performance
5- 24/7 Support
6- 3-Year Warranty
7- Easy to use App with great diagnostics
8- Wire Management at the base is excellent & offers a wire free appearance.
9- Three Velop Nodes establish fast Wi-Fi speed across the house on any floor.
10- Expandable: Add an additional Node any time you prefer.
1- Fastest Wi-Fi Speed
2- Easy approximate 10 minute Set-up per hub
3- Velop Nodes are very attractive & blend with any architecture
4- Robust infrastructure yields dependable performance
5- 24/7 Support
6- 3-Year Warranty
7- Easy to use App with great diagnostics
8- Wire Management at the base is excellent & offers a wire free appearance.
9- Three Velop Nodes establish fast Wi-Fi speed across the house on any floor.
10- Expandable: Add an additional Node any time you prefer.
CON's:
1- IP Address range cannot be changed from: 192.***. My 2) existing Apple Time Capsule / Routers had IP addresses of 10.***, but they can be set to different ranges. A different IP Address range requires individually resetting a few devices that previously connected to the other range. For example, each Nixplay connected frame had to manually "Forget" the old Wi-Fi name of the previous SSID, then set up the same name with Velop, even though the Wi-Fi name and password are the same. On 13) Apple Airport Express devices, I had to power down each device to reset it from 10.*** to 192.***
2- IPv6 is not supported as of product release. This is surprising, as my three year old Apple Time Capsule / Router supported IPv6.
3- The first unit set up in under 10 minutes; however the remaining two hubs froze at the same exact place midway every time during set-up. After 6 failed attempts, I held each Node horizontally and kept my hand around it. Surprisingly, this procedure resulted in a virtually immediate set-up! Then I set each Node vertically & it continued to work great.
4- Only one Node can connect to the internet via ethernet. The other Nodes connect to the first Node via wireless mesh connection. I would prefer the option of connecting each Node to a wired ethernet connection. Linksys Technical Support indicated this may be added later as a software update. This would prove beneficial because the Nodes must be located fairly close together (my tests showed less than 40 feet apart at most).
1- IP Address range cannot be changed from: 192.***. My 2) existing Apple Time Capsule / Routers had IP addresses of 10.***, but they can be set to different ranges. A different IP Address range requires individually resetting a few devices that previously connected to the other range. For example, each Nixplay connected frame had to manually "Forget" the old Wi-Fi name of the previous SSID, then set up the same name with Velop, even though the Wi-Fi name and password are the same. On 13) Apple Airport Express devices, I had to power down each device to reset it from 10.*** to 192.***
2- IPv6 is not supported as of product release. This is surprising, as my three year old Apple Time Capsule / Router supported IPv6.
3- The first unit set up in under 10 minutes; however the remaining two hubs froze at the same exact place midway every time during set-up. After 6 failed attempts, I held each Node horizontally and kept my hand around it. Surprisingly, this procedure resulted in a virtually immediate set-up! Then I set each Node vertically & it continued to work great.
4- Only one Node can connect to the internet via ethernet. The other Nodes connect to the first Node via wireless mesh connection. I would prefer the option of connecting each Node to a wired ethernet connection. Linksys Technical Support indicated this may be added later as a software update. This would prove beneficial because the Nodes must be located fairly close together (my tests showed less than 40 feet apart at most).
CONCLUSION: My search for the "Ideal" Whole Home Wi-Fi System that consistently delivers 300 Mbps over 5,000 square feet with 90 devices ends here!! I am THRILLED with Velop & give it my highest recommendation!! It has proven to be the BEST ROUTER available for 2017!
BillFromKC
KCMO
Mine gave me IPv6 OOB
February 19, 2017
and even so, there was a firmware update it applied immediate after setup. I agree that the IP address range thing is annoying though, especially when you're moving from an existing network with static IP devices (NAS, printers, etc.)
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BillFromKC's Questions
BillFromKC has not submitted any questions.
Smart TVs & Devices
Smart TVs & Devices
Roku 3 ,Apple Tv Whats the difference?
I want more TV with out cable
The Roku is mainly used for streaming video, and anything that has streaming video through a website or a smartphone app will probably have a channel on Roku. For those that haven't invested in the iOS or iTunes ecosystem, it's really the best deal in media. While it can be used to DLNA and Miracast, configuring either to work properly with the box is a pain.
The AppleTV has some streaming functionality of the Roku Box, but not nearly as many channels. It makes up for this, however, in connectivity with Macintosh computers (Airplay), iDevices (Airplay and functionality), and it's access to iTunes (streaming content from iTunes on your computer and access to iTunes Music, Movies, TV shows, Podcasts, and other media). AppleTV is also the way to go when it comes to a household with an existing base of iOS devices (iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch) or those with an extensive collection of media in iTunes.
Another option is Amazon FireTV. It's similar to, but more powerful than Roku, though it's also limited on channels it can access. It makes up for this with it's unprecedented access to Amazon Streaming Music and Video, including Prime.
Another option is to get a smart TV or a smart Blu-Ray player. Either device will give you plenty of streaming options.
The AppleTV has some streaming functionality of the Roku Box, but not nearly as many channels. It makes up for this, however, in connectivity with Macintosh computers (Airplay), iDevices (Airplay and functionality), and it's access to iTunes (streaming content from iTunes on your computer and access to iTunes Music, Movies, TV shows, Podcasts, and other media). AppleTV is also the way to go when it comes to a household with an existing base of iOS devices (iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch) or those with an extensive collection of media in iTunes.
Another option is Amazon FireTV. It's similar to, but more powerful than Roku, though it's also limited on channels it can access. It makes up for this with it's unprecedented access to Amazon Streaming Music and Video, including Prime.
Another option is to get a smart TV or a smart Blu-Ray player. Either device will give you plenty of streaming options.
9 years, 10 months ago
by
BillFromKC
KCMO
Smart TVs & Devices
Smart TVs & Devices
How to connect DVD to TV or DVR
How do I connect my DVD to my HDTV or my DVR , wheb there are not enough port in the back of my TV , do I need to buy any special gadget?
You'd need an appropriate switchbox or a home theater receiver to go between sources.
9 years, 10 months ago
by
BillFromKC
KCMO
Smart TVs & Devices
Smart TVs & Devices
I want to connect two monitors to my laptop, but my laptop only has 1 hdmi output. what do i need to do this?
If your laptop also has a VGA output, you could use the VGA connection to power a second display. Otherwise, Matrox makes a device called the "DualHead2Go" that would allow two screens over one connection. You'd need the HDMI version of this device and 3 HDMI to DVI adapters, and audio over HDMI from your laptop would not work. Google Matrox DualHead2Go for more info on this device.
9 years, 10 months ago
by
BillFromKC
KCMO
Smart TVs & Devices
Smart TVs & Devices
Suggest an audio receiver with pandora and ipod/iphone port that will power 7 ceiling proficient audio speakers( 8 ohm, 150W max) ?
Will use multizone speaker selector.
I have an Onkyo TR-NX717 that powers a set of Energy-branded speakers just fine. It has Pandora and several other internet-based streaming providers it can connect to, and the front USB port supports iOS devices, including streaming audio over USB.
My model was superseded by the TX-NR727, which itself was superseded by the TX-NR737.
Functionally, The TX-NR6xx series (616, 626, 636) and TX-NR8xx (818, 828, 838) are similar to the TX-NR7xx series; the 6xx's have less powerful amplifiers and the 8xx's have more powerful amplifiers, but they all otherwise have a similar feature set.
My model was superseded by the TX-NR727, which itself was superseded by the TX-NR737.
Functionally, The TX-NR6xx series (616, 626, 636) and TX-NR8xx (818, 828, 838) are similar to the TX-NR7xx series; the 6xx's have less powerful amplifiers and the 8xx's have more powerful amplifiers, but they all otherwise have a similar feature set.
9 years, 10 months ago
by
BillFromKC
KCMO
The highly advanced iPhone 5s features the A7 chip with 64-bit architecture, the Touch ID fingerprint sensor, a new 8MP iSight camera, a new FaceTime HD camera, ultrafast LTE wireless, iOS 7, and iCloud. Yet it's as thin and light as ever.
i would like to know if this product really works in Brazil
i would like to know if this product really works in Brazil, if this works normally and what i have to do to send this to Brazil!
The iPhone 5S for Verizon, just like the greater majority of Verizon LTE and XLTE phones, is unlocked. Which means you can change its SIM card out and use it most anywhere around the world with GSM cell phone providers, including in the United States (for grins and giggles, I popped a T-Mobile SIM card into my Verizon 5S and was able to use T-Mobile service.)
9 years, 11 months ago
by
BillFromKC
KCMO
Smart TVs & Devices
Smart TVs & Devices
connetion between my smart tv and wireless soundbar?
I bought a 55" model 7150 samsung tv and i can not get the wireless soundbar and sub to connect without using a HDMI cable. How do I connect wirelessly to the tv?
If you're talking about the connection from the TV to the soundbar system, there will always need to be a cable connection between the TV and the soundbar. Even a Sonos soundbar (which is otherwise wireless) needs a connection to a TV or cable box for TV audio.
For the connection between the sub and the soundbar, both parts of the system should have a pairing button. However, keep in mind that interference from WiFi, cordless phones, baby monitors, and other devices sharing the 2.4 GHz spectrum can and will cause interference with the connection between the soundbar and sub.
For the connection between the sub and the soundbar, both parts of the system should have a pairing button. However, keep in mind that interference from WiFi, cordless phones, baby monitors, and other devices sharing the 2.4 GHz spectrum can and will cause interference with the connection between the soundbar and sub.
9 years, 11 months ago
by
BillFromKC
KCMO
Smart TVs & Devices
Smart TVs & Devices
how can I hook up my headphones or bluetooth my hearing aids to big screen tv with digital audio out only?
Least expensive route - you'd be looking at buying a TOSLINK/Coax digital audio to RCA connector converter (red/white plugs), a cable that goes from RCA connectors to a 3.5mm connector, and either a Bluetooth transmitter or a 3.5mm audio extension cord to connect to your hearing aid system.
Best Buy doesn't sell these items directly, but does offer them through their Marketplace resellers. You'll also want to purchase a USB charger you can dedicate to this setup, since almost every Bluetooth transmitter uses USB for power and charging.
Best Buy doesn't sell these items directly, but does offer them through their Marketplace resellers. You'll also want to purchase a USB charger you can dedicate to this setup, since almost every Bluetooth transmitter uses USB for power and charging.
Products from my answer
GOgroove - BlueGATE TRM A2DP Bluetooth Audio Transmitter/ Adapter for Portable AM/FM Radios (15hr Runtime) - White
AGPtek - Digital to Analog Audio Converter
10 years, 4 months ago
by
BillFromKC
KCMO
Smart TVs & Devices
Smart TVs & Devices
Intel Wireless Display WIDI
Will a Smart TV be able to display my laptop screen via the WIDI or do I still need one of the adapters? Also, for a standard set, does it have to be the netgear adapter, or will any of the streaming boxes work or a DVD/Blueray with wifi work as well?
As long as the SmartTV supports WiDi, you won't need an adapter. If you're running Windows 8.1 and your TV supports Miracast, and you have a 3rd or 4th generation Core i-series processor, you can use the Miracast standard instead. Unfortunately, it looks as if NVIDIA and AMD graphics don't support Miracast at this time.
10 years, 5 months ago
by
BillFromKC
KCMO