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SoCalTech33
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- Review count6
- Helpfulness votes50
- First reviewJanuary 24, 2017
- Last reviewMay 11, 2017
- Featured reviews0
- Average rating3.5
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- Answer count5
- Helpfulness votes28
- First answerJanuary 24, 2017
- Last answerMay 11, 2017
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SoCalTech33's Reviews
MSI Laptop: Enjoy gaming wherever you go with this MSI Stealth Pro laptop. Its 16GB of RAM and Intel Core i7 processor provide smooth, fast action, and its NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 graphics card creates a superior detailed display with high resolution on the 15.6-inch screen. This MSI Stealth Pro Laptop includes a 256GB solid-state drive for ample file storage.
Posted by: SoCalTech33
After owning an MSI GS63VR, and working with the various models they offer, I have mixed feelings about this particular model (252).
PROS:
-7th Generation i7 is powerful and smooth
-Solid build quality
-Thin and lightweight design
-Lightning fast performance after bloatware is disabled
-GTX 1060 powerful enough for graphic intensive games
-16 GB RAM DDR4
-Solid State and Hard Drive
-7th Generation i7 is powerful and smooth
-Solid build quality
-Thin and lightweight design
-Lightning fast performance after bloatware is disabled
-GTX 1060 powerful enough for graphic intensive games
-16 GB RAM DDR4
-Solid State and Hard Drive
CONS:
-The screen on the "252" model is very low quality compared to the "228", "229" and "230" models. The viewing angles are poor and the colors are washed out.
-The solid state drive is SATA instead of the NVme drives on the "228", "229", and "230" models. Although fast, this means 1/3 the read/write speeds, noticeable to those working heavily with audio/video.
-Bloatware makes it slow at first, must delete unnecessary apps for optimal performance.
-Battery life is lacking.
-The screen on the "252" model is very low quality compared to the "228", "229" and "230" models. The viewing angles are poor and the colors are washed out.
-The solid state drive is SATA instead of the NVme drives on the "228", "229", and "230" models. Although fast, this means 1/3 the read/write speeds, noticeable to those working heavily with audio/video.
-Bloatware makes it slow at first, must delete unnecessary apps for optimal performance.
-Battery life is lacking.
The screen on the "252" was difficult to look at for extended periods. If you're going to be using an external monitor often, this may not be an issue, but if you'll only be using the built in screen be sure to try it out at the store. Best Buy also sells similar models but with better screens and faster solid state drives for a bit more money. Overall, all of the GS63VR models offer great performance, but be aware of the differences in screens and solid state drives.
My Best Buy number: 4245744224
I would recommend this to a friend!
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40of 48voted this as helpful.
This multidirectional Mohu Leaf 30 MH-110583 indoor antenna is compatible with select HDTVs and enables 1080p output. The reversible, paintable design lets you customize the look of the antenna to complement your décor.
Posted by: SoCalTech33
This was one of multiple antennas I tried. It performs far better than "rabbit ears". That said, there are cheaper flat antennas that give similar or slightly better performance.
PROS:
-Was able to pick up 146 channels in direct line of sight of towers in LA
-Far more reliable reception than traditional "rabbit ears"
-Detachable cable allows you to replace with a longer cable
-No power cord needed
-Easy to mount to the wall
-Was able to pick up 146 channels in direct line of sight of towers in LA
-Far more reliable reception than traditional "rabbit ears"
-Detachable cable allows you to replace with a longer cable
-No power cord needed
-Easy to mount to the wall
CONS:
-Missing two channels in the 2-13 range (Winegard Flatwave picked them up)
-Regularly priced $10-15 more than other flat antennas
-Missing two channels in the 2-13 range (Winegard Flatwave picked them up)
-Regularly priced $10-15 more than other flat antennas
Bottom line is that this is a very good antenna, but I can only recommend it if it's on sale for less than $30. That said, the Mohu Leaf 30 has the advantage of a detachable cable. The Winegard Flatwave is better at receiving channels 2-13 and is cheaper in most cases.
My Best Buy number: 4245744224
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Gain access to local channels with this Winegard indoor antenna. It has a 15-inch mini coaxial cable, so you can position it for an optimal signal, and it comes with 3M Command Brand strips to adhere to any wall for easy installation. With this Winegard indoor antenna, you can eliminate the cable bill.
Posted by: SoCalTech33
This is the 4th antenna I've tried and by far the best. Your experience may vary due to proximity of towers, natural obstructions or even competing signals in your home. Note that all indoor antennas do seem to be affected by cell phones, wi-fi, and electrical wiring to varying degrees. This is what I found in the Los Angeles region:
Passive rabbit ears: 108 channels, tons of interference and pixelation
Amplified rabbit ears: 123 channels, tons of interference and pixelation
Mohu Leaf 30: 146 channels, minimal interference
Winegard Flatwave: 154 channels; minimal interference
Amplified rabbit ears: 123 channels, tons of interference and pixelation
Mohu Leaf 30: 146 channels, minimal interference
Winegard Flatwave: 154 channels; minimal interference
The Flatwave is able to pick up all channels 2-13 without pixelation, whereas the Mohu leaf 30 was missing 2 major channels, and the rabbit ears missed 4-5 major channels. The Flatwave is also $10-15 cheaper than the Mohu Leaf depending on the sale prices.
The only semi-gripe about this antenna is the thin, non-detachable cable. The Mohu Leaf has a detachable cable for adding a longer and/or better shielded coaxial cable.
Bottom line, this antenna appears to have the best performance for a reasonable price. I highly recommend this product.
My Best Buy number: 4245744224
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Take your gaming on the go with this MSI Stealth Pro laptop, featuring Nvidia graphics for amazing images. The 15.6-inch, anti-glare screen offers full HD to keep you in every moment of the action, and powerful Intel Core i7 processing provides lag-free performance even in multi-layered games. This MSI Stealth Pro laptop 16GB DDR4 RAM system memory for massive support.
Posted by: SoCalTech33
Given the many brands of gaming laptops and the wide range of prices and options, it's important to do your research. I was looking for a thin and light desktop replacement and this fit my needs perfectly. Keep in mind, there are quite a few variants to this model and it's important to pick the right one for you.
PROS:
-High end quad core i7 processor is very fast
-GTX 1060 graphics card matches or beats last year's top of the line cards
-Solid state boot drive (starts up in less than 10 seconds)
-Metal build feels great in hand
-Slimmer bezels than compable models
-Bottom made of felt/suede type material minimizes heat and slipping
-Slim and lightweight; very portable
-Customizable keyboard backlight; great keyboard travel
-16 GB DDR4 is great for multitasking
-Plenty of ports, USB, Headphone & Mic, Thunderbolt 3, etc
-Much more attractive than many other gaming laptops
-Runs quiet and cool when you're not gaming
-High end quad core i7 processor is very fast
-GTX 1060 graphics card matches or beats last year's top of the line cards
-Solid state boot drive (starts up in less than 10 seconds)
-Metal build feels great in hand
-Slimmer bezels than compable models
-Bottom made of felt/suede type material minimizes heat and slipping
-Slim and lightweight; very portable
-Customizable keyboard backlight; great keyboard travel
-16 GB DDR4 is great for multitasking
-Plenty of ports, USB, Headphone & Mic, Thunderbolt 3, etc
-Much more attractive than many other gaming laptops
-Runs quiet and cool when you're not gaming
CONS:
-Yes, the cheaper "001" model has a dim and dull screen compared to the IPS level "034" and "068" models. Screen is acceptable with built in tweaks.
-Battery life is poor to mediocre depending on the power profile selected
-128 GB SSD is SATA, not the faster PCIe
-Upgrading RAM or the M.2 SSD requires removal of the motherboard, though the SATA drive is easily accessible.
-Trackpad isn't as good as Asus models I've used previously
-Yes, the cheaper "001" model has a dim and dull screen compared to the IPS level "034" and "068" models. Screen is acceptable with built in tweaks.
-Battery life is poor to mediocre depending on the power profile selected
-128 GB SSD is SATA, not the faster PCIe
-Upgrading RAM or the M.2 SSD requires removal of the motherboard, though the SATA drive is easily accessible.
-Trackpad isn't as good as Asus models I've used previously
BOTTOM LINE:
This laptop has high end specs where it matters. If the screen on the "001" model were better, it would easily be a 5 star laptop. This seems to be a great compromise for those who want power but also an easily portable computer. There are definitely larger, cheaper plastic gaming laptops that use an i5 and/or GTX 9 series graphic cards, that may be better options depending on your needs. However, this does offer similar performance to much more expensive models from other manufacturers. The 2017 models offer an i7-7700HQ, which is only slightly faster, yet can support faster RAM, and most come with faster PCIe SSD's. One would have to decide whether they're worth the premium price over this model. If you want a thin and light gaming laptop under $1500, this is definitely one to consider.
This laptop has high end specs where it matters. If the screen on the "001" model were better, it would easily be a 5 star laptop. This seems to be a great compromise for those who want power but also an easily portable computer. There are definitely larger, cheaper plastic gaming laptops that use an i5 and/or GTX 9 series graphic cards, that may be better options depending on your needs. However, this does offer similar performance to much more expensive models from other manufacturers. The 2017 models offer an i7-7700HQ, which is only slightly faster, yet can support faster RAM, and most come with faster PCIe SSD's. One would have to decide whether they're worth the premium price over this model. If you want a thin and light gaming laptop under $1500, this is definitely one to consider.
My Best Buy number: 424574422
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Capture TV signals 45 miles or more from the tower with this RCA indoor antenna. Its SmartBoost technology amplifies and filters signals for optimal picture quality, even for 4K and 1080 HDTV programs. The separate flat-panel UHF and VHF dipole elements of this RCA indoor antenna receive the full range of broadcast TV stations.
Customer Rating
2
Amplified isn't always better, disappointed...
on January 25, 2017
Posted by: SoCalTech33
Doing quite a bit of research into antennas, I found that your experience will vary considerably depending on many environmental factors. Ultimately, I returned this antenna. Using this antenna in the foothills of Los Angeles with direct line of sight of transmission towers, here is my experience. Note that "amplified" antennas can actually cause interference on high signal channels.
PROS:
-Well built and that's about it
-Well built and that's about it
CONS:
-Constant interference from walking by it, wifi router, and even from cables/electrical cords
-Didn't seem to pick up channels from all directions simultaneously, and needed constant adjusting
-This $30 "amplified" antenna performed no better than a $15 non-amplified antenna.
-Unplugging the amplifier didn't help.
-Constant interference from walking by it, wifi router, and even from cables/electrical cords
-Didn't seem to pick up channels from all directions simultaneously, and needed constant adjusting
-This $30 "amplified" antenna performed no better than a $15 non-amplified antenna.
-Unplugging the amplifier didn't help.
After having to adjust the antenna daily, I decided to try the Mohu Leaf 30 (non-amplified) and was amazed that such a thin antenna could pick up 15 additional channels and previously glitchy channels come in perfectly.
BOTTOM LINE:
I can't recommend this antenna. If you live in a 20 mile radius of towers, stick with a NON-amplified antenna. The flat antennas may seem odd, but they work but they work way better.
I can't recommend this antenna. If you live in a 20 mile radius of towers, stick with a NON-amplified antenna. The flat antennas may seem odd, but they work but they work way better.
My Best Buy number: 4245744224
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
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Access up-to-date technology in a compact laptop with this ASUS convertible notebook. A powerful Intel i7 processor, 16GB of memory and a 512GB solid-state drive ensure strong desktop performance, and a touch screen and folding tablet mode provide flexibility. Fingerprint scanning keeps your data secure with this 13.3-inch ASUS convertible notebook.
Customer Rating
3
Premium look and feel, but quality control issues
on January 24, 2017
Posted by: SoCalTech33
Before buying this laptop, know that it features an i7-7500U DUAL-CORE processor, which is plenty fast for web browsing, presentations, and light multimedia, but may stutter/lag when gaming or processing intense graphics. Many laptops, although larger are using the i7-6700hq and i7-7700hq which are QUAD-CORE processors and provide much better speed. Unlike many 15.6" and up models, the Q324ua lacks a dedicated graphics card and therefore isn't meant for gaming. If you want to try out the latest games, I'd look elsewhere.
PROS:
-Very thin & lightweight, high quality metal construction, easy to carry around
-Sturdy 360 degree hinges allow tablet usage and avoids snap risk found on most laptops
-Minimalist all black design is a nice alternative to the silver or gold ultrabooks
-Runs very fast and smoothly once Asus bloatware and Microsoft's cloud services are disabled
-512 GB solid state drive is spacious and fast
-16 GB RAM gives it a bit of future proofing
-Good keyboard and trackpad given the thinness
-Surprisingly good battery life
-Stays a reasonable temperature even with heavy use
-Decent number of ports: USB, HDMI, etc (no adapter needed like Apple)
-Very thin & lightweight, high quality metal construction, easy to carry around
-Sturdy 360 degree hinges allow tablet usage and avoids snap risk found on most laptops
-Minimalist all black design is a nice alternative to the silver or gold ultrabooks
-Runs very fast and smoothly once Asus bloatware and Microsoft's cloud services are disabled
-512 GB solid state drive is spacious and fast
-16 GB RAM gives it a bit of future proofing
-Good keyboard and trackpad given the thinness
-Surprisingly good battery life
-Stays a reasonable temperature even with heavy use
-Decent number of ports: USB, HDMI, etc (no adapter needed like Apple)
CONS:
-Screen has considerable light bleed when displaying black
-Screen shows signs of burn in and ghosting after 30+ min of web browsing
-When flipping into tablet mode, the flip sensor gets confused and switches back and forth between tablet and desktop modes
-Down arrow key seems weak and doesn't always register presses
-High pitched fan noise when listening to music or watching videos
-Upon first use, the CPU usage was hitting 90-100%, fans roaring, had to disable bloatware to get it back to normal levels.
-Power button is on the left and hard to press with big fingers
-Screen has considerable light bleed when displaying black
-Screen shows signs of burn in and ghosting after 30+ min of web browsing
-When flipping into tablet mode, the flip sensor gets confused and switches back and forth between tablet and desktop modes
-Down arrow key seems weak and doesn't always register presses
-High pitched fan noise when listening to music or watching videos
-Upon first use, the CPU usage was hitting 90-100%, fans roaring, had to disable bloatware to get it back to normal levels.
-Power button is on the left and hard to press with big fingers
TIPS:
-If CPU usage is too high, disable Asus bloatware, turn off Microsoft's cloud based features, and disable any high usage startup apps.
-If the flip sensor is acting up, you can force desktop or tablet mode in settings
-If you get this laptop, check the screen for burn in or ghosting after long periods of web browsing.
-If CPU usage is too high, disable Asus bloatware, turn off Microsoft's cloud based features, and disable any high usage startup apps.
-If the flip sensor is acting up, you can force desktop or tablet mode in settings
-If you get this laptop, check the screen for burn in or ghosting after long periods of web browsing.
BOTTOM LINE:
Ultimately, I returned the Q324ua for something more powerful. In real world use, it did not seem to be a noticeable improvement over ultrabooks I tested with and i5 with 8 GB RAM. It might have been defective, but having both screen issues and flip sensor problems, I have doubts on the quality control of this model. I've had great experiences with Asus laptops in the past, so this could be a fluke or corners were cut to offer a more affordable model. Given the price and class of the laptop I'm left with very mixed feelings. Admittedly, this laptop is likely designed for business and multi-tasking, and to look good while doing it. That said, you could get an equally powerful 15.6" laptop, albeit larger/heavier, for roughly $300 less, an i5 ultrabook with 8 GB RAM for $200-300 less that could handle most of the same productivity needs, or you could go with a much more powerful gaming laptop for the same price or a bit more. On the other hand, It looks and feels great, provides solid multitasking ability, and is a much better value than comparable Apple products. If you're in the market for an attractive extremely portable ultrabook or 2-in-1, and don't plan on gaming or video editing, this could be great for you. The Q324ua, if you get one with a good screen and good flip sensor, is a good value when on sale, but the MSRP is excessive.
Ultimately, I returned the Q324ua for something more powerful. In real world use, it did not seem to be a noticeable improvement over ultrabooks I tested with and i5 with 8 GB RAM. It might have been defective, but having both screen issues and flip sensor problems, I have doubts on the quality control of this model. I've had great experiences with Asus laptops in the past, so this could be a fluke or corners were cut to offer a more affordable model. Given the price and class of the laptop I'm left with very mixed feelings. Admittedly, this laptop is likely designed for business and multi-tasking, and to look good while doing it. That said, you could get an equally powerful 15.6" laptop, albeit larger/heavier, for roughly $300 less, an i5 ultrabook with 8 GB RAM for $200-300 less that could handle most of the same productivity needs, or you could go with a much more powerful gaming laptop for the same price or a bit more. On the other hand, It looks and feels great, provides solid multitasking ability, and is a much better value than comparable Apple products. If you're in the market for an attractive extremely portable ultrabook or 2-in-1, and don't plan on gaming or video editing, this could be great for you. The Q324ua, if you get one with a good screen and good flip sensor, is a good value when on sale, but the MSRP is excessive.
I should note that Best Buy customer service was excellent during the exchange process and took the stress out of getting a lemon.
My Best Buy number: 424574422
I would recommend this to a friend!
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SoCalTech33's Answers
MSI Laptop: Enjoy gaming wherever you go with this MSI Stealth Pro laptop. Its 16GB of RAM and Intel Core i7 processor provide smooth, fast action, and its NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 graphics card creates a superior detailed display with high resolution on the 15.6-inch screen. This MSI Stealth Pro Laptop includes a 256GB solid-state drive for ample file storage.
Is the screen an ips like the previous 34 version or the cheaper screen on the 01 version of last year's model?
I compared the 252 model to the 001 model in store, and sadly the 252 is just as bad, if not worse. The 252 models I tested feature a Chi Mei screen with poor viewing angles and washed out colors. By contrast, the 229 and 230 models have the superior "IPS-Level" screens with great viewing angles and richer colors. The 034 model is an older model, but apparently has a great "IPS-Level" screen as well.
6 years, 11 months ago
by
SoCalTech33
MSI Laptop: Enjoy gaming wherever you go with this MSI Stealth Pro laptop. Its 16GB of RAM and Intel Core i7 processor provide smooth, fast action, and its NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 graphics card creates a superior detailed display with high resolution on the 15.6-inch screen. This MSI Stealth Pro Laptop includes a 256GB solid-state drive for ample file storage.
Can this laptop be upgraded to 32GB memory? If so is it 2133MHz or will 2400MHz DDR4 be better?
This laptop comes with 16 GB DDR 2400 Mhz (2 slots with 8 GB RAM each). The maximum supported is listed as 32 GB RAM (using two 16 GB RAM chips).
6 years, 11 months ago
by
SoCalTech33
Take your gaming on the go with this MSI Stealth Pro laptop, featuring Nvidia graphics for amazing images. The 15.6-inch, anti-glare screen offers full HD to keep you in every moment of the action, and powerful Intel Core i7 processing provides lag-free performance even in multi-layered games. This MSI Stealth Pro laptop 16GB DDR4 RAM system memory for massive support.
Is it true that this model has a lower grade screen? Not the same as the standard model?
Yes, the screen on the "001" is dimmer and has duller colors than the "034" or "068" models.
7 years, 2 months ago
by
SoCalTech33
Capture TV signals 45 miles or more from the tower with this RCA indoor antenna. Its SmartBoost technology amplifies and filters signals for optimal picture quality, even for 4K and 1080 HDTV programs. The separate flat-panel UHF and VHF dipole elements of this RCA indoor antenna receive the full range of broadcast TV stations.
Do you need a converter to use this antenna or can you use just the antenna alone?
Most newer TV's have a digital tuner built in and you can just plug the antenna into the cable port. Check the specs of your TV to confirm.
7 years, 2 months ago
by
SoCalTech33
Access up-to-date technology in a compact laptop with this ASUS convertible notebook. A powerful Intel i7 processor, 16GB of memory and a 512GB solid-state drive ensure strong desktop performance, and a touch screen and folding tablet mode provide flexibility. Fingerprint scanning keeps your data secure with this 13.3-inch ASUS convertible notebook.
Have had for almost a month now. Is anyone else having problems with the keyboard not locking when flipped all the wall in tablet mode. Tent mode locks keyboard but as soon as I fold it 180 degrees (keyboard and screen back to back) the keyboard unlocks
Yes, I had this problem as well. I'm guessing there is an issue with the flip sensor as when flipped all the way, any movement caused a popup asking me if I wanted to switch to tablet or desktop mode. Tablet mode was extremely flaky, so ultimately I returned the laptop.
7 years, 2 months ago
by
SoCalTech33