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sarfdawg
sarfdawg's stats
- Review count3
- Helpfulness votes59
- First reviewDecember 17, 2013
- Last reviewJune 4, 2016
- Featured reviews0
- Average rating4.3
- Review comment count6
- Helpfulness votes1
- First review commentAugust 5, 2011
- Last review commentMay 30, 2016
- Featured review comments0
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- Last questionNone
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- Answer count3
- Helpfulness votes0
- First answerJune 4, 2016
- Last answerJune 4, 2016
- Featured answers0
- Best answers0
sarfdawg's Reviews
Pioneer In-Dash CD/DVD Receiver: Make roadtrips and commutes more enjoyable with this receiver's playback of CD, DVD, MP3 and more. The rear USB and rear auxiliary inputs offer flexible connectivity with your mobile devices.Geek Squad® installation is strongly recommended for this product. Please visit your local Best Buy store for details.
Posted by: sarfdawg
from Cumming, GA
I absolutely love this receiver, and it is a must have over the factory radio. The bluetooth connectivity is easy and lightning fast. The sound using Pandora, HD Radio, and Bluetooth streaming is CD quality. SiriusXM is, well, SiriusXM - very compressed and a tad bit muffled, but that is not the receiver's fault. The SiriusXM tuner is required if you decide to add that on. All of the above will generally display the album art, and that's pretty cool. DVD video and sound quality are fabulous.
My only knock on this radio is really not so much with the radio. It is with Pioneer and the AppRadio One app for Android that will not connect with the Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge. It is very well documented online that it will only work with iPhone and a handful of Android phones, and Pioneer has dropped the ball, particularly with a top-of-the-line smartphone like the S7. I would love to have the functionality that, quite honestly, I expected when I purchased the receiver.
All that to say, I love the purchase, and I highly recommend this to anyone, particularly those who enjoy utilizing and exploring HD Radio channels. The sound on those channels really jumps off the page.
My Best Buy number: 0106116490
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+3points
3of 3voted this as helpful.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S Tablet: Remain connected and productive with this tablet, which lets you access downloadable apps and media and wirelessly connect to other Bluetooth devices. Using Sidesync, you can control your Samsung Galaxy S 5 cell phone from your tablet. You can even open up 2 apps side by side with Multi Window.
Posted by: sarfdawg
from Cumming, GA
Obviously, you've read that the screen on this tablet is second to none, and that is 100% the truth. The screen is bright and vibrant, and the colors jump of the screen at you. The processor is snappy, and the built-in apps, while plentiful, aren't overly intrusive. I have had this since the week it came out, and in the six months that have passed since, I haven't seen a tablet on the market that can touch it - Apple, MS, etc.
If you buy this one, I assure you that you'll be very pleased with you purchase.
My Best Buy number: 0106116490
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+2points
2of 2voted this as helpful.
Microsoft Xbox One: The Xbox One is your all-in-one media center. Its powerful hardware delivers impressive graphics and detailed game worlds, plus it also offers an impressive lineup of video streaming apps to bring you movies, TV shows, sports and more in HD.The wireless controller was refined through hundreds of tests to emerge as Microsoft's most advanced controller to date. There are more than 40 improvements over the Xbox 360 controller, including everything from a more comfortable design and improved response time to additional rumble motors that can deliver more dynamic haptic feedback.Kinect is bundled in, delivering motion capture technology that allows you to step into your games and control them by moving your body. It also includes voice recognition, so your games and apps respond to the sound of your voice. Navigating the Xbox One's dynamic menus is simple and convenient; just swipe your hand, speak commands or use the included wireless controller.Advanced TV hardware required. Games, add-ons and media content sold separately. Initial setup and some games and features require broadband Internet; ISP fees apply. Online multiplayer requires Xbox Live Gold membership (sold separately). Multiplayer between Xbox 360 and Xbox One not supported. See Xbox.com/XboxOne.
Customer Rating
4
Good, potentially great.
on December 17, 2013
Posted by: sarfdawg
from Cumming, GA
Potentially, this has the ability to be a game changer.
As of right now, it is clear that MS wants to nose its way into your living room, and it wants to step right in between the path of your DirecTV/cable box and and your TV...literally. I'll get more into that shortly...
The box itself is not entirely different than the Xbox consoles of the past. Kind of big, kind of bulky, but it's really not that big of a deal. Yes, there is a power brick, but again, I'm not going to let that keep me from buying a console. The console, when on, makes no sound what so ever. I've been very impressed with the length of time it takes to turn itself on and my other components. The IR blaster generally does what it's supposed to do - turn on the Xbox One along with the Kinect, the TV, the Onkyo receiver, and the DirecTV DVR. You enter the model numbers for your components when you first set up your console, and you shouldn't have to do it again. "Xbox On" and "Xbox Turn off" do the job for all of your components.
The item that has been making all the news has been the live TV integration. This aspect is the most impressive and maddening all at the same time. It is very cool to be able to have your friends come over, and you just use your voice to say, "Xbox volume up," "Xbox watch ESPN," "Xbox Turn Off," etc., it have your guests' jaws drop. It's also maddening that you can give some of the same commands and occasionally just get ignored, at which point, your wife just shakes her head and wonders aloud, "what's so great about this again?" It's also mildly frustrating that some channels like "ESPN U" and "Disney Junior" cannot be accessed by voice; so that means that your DirecTV/Cable remote cannot go that far away. Let the record indicate that I just found out last night after having had this for since "Day One" that the d-pad on the controller can be used to go channel up or channel down. That certainly lessens the need for the DirecTV/Cable remote to be around at all times. The "Xbox One Guide" is a glorified alternative to your existing on-screen guide. I don't know exactly yet how to use my voice to tell it to tune to a particular channel from the guide, but the page up/page down commands work very well through the "One Guide."
A second question I had about TV integration was going to be the picture quality when passing through the Xbox One. It turns out that it looks really good, and 99% of the time, it's flawless. The only time I notice anything amiss is when I'm paying attention to the "ESPN Bottom Line" - the scroll bar at the bottom of any ESPN channel. Every once in a blue moon I notice a little judder effect on the text as it scrolls. It's still very readable, and after a few seconds, it corrects itself, but it's occasionally noticeable. The actual TV content is excellent in terms of picture quality. One tip for you if you have a cable/satellite box that allows you to alter your resolution from 720p to 1080i or vice versa, then go ahead a pick one that you think is best and avoid a "native" mode at all costs. (Personally, I like 1080i the most between the two, but your opinion may vary). The reason I say that is because the Xbox takes a few seconds to go from one resolution to the other, and it's noticeably longer than it is when the signal is going directly from cable/satellite box to TV. The good news is that the signal, regardless of the resolution you choose, is getting upconverted to 1080p anyway. For the record 3D signals do not pass through from the DirecTV DVR through the Xbox and to the TV. The TV will now give you the "Your TV does not support 3D" message if you pass through the Xbox. Either have a second HDMI connection directly from your cable/satellite box to your TV, or give Microsoft some time to correct this issue. We never use 3D, much like most of America; so I suspect this will not impact you at all.
One negative that does affect me slightly is that, at this moment, Dolby 5.1/7.1 is not supported output via optical cable, only DTS. I have HDMI connected, and Dolby 5.1/7.1 is supported via HDMI, but my audio receiver is slightly older, and it only passes through the video signal, not audio, thus my having to use optical. Many of you will not have to worry about this at all, but my rear speakers go unused in regular TV watching for 7.1. There is supposed to be an Xbox update coming soon that will address this issue. If your HDMI carries both audio and video for you, then you can ignore this paragraph. If you rely on optical, then know that audio during gameplay is 7.1 (stunningly good, by the way), but TV watching is DTS (soon to be updated/upgraded).
The Kinect sensor is really cool as far as I can tell in gameplay. The only games I have are Battlefield 4, Madden NFL 25, NBA 2k14, and Forza 5. I don't have any full-blown motion games that really take advantage of being able to detect your movements. In gameplay, the only real tests I've given the Kinect have been to audible in Madden (very accurate), holler "throw grenade" in Battlefield (excellent), and use profanity in NBA 2K14 (which appropriately gets you T'd up!). I do know the Kinect camera is very clear, and it does a pretty good job of picking up people in the room and associating their gamer pic with them. I get the customary "Hi, Sarfdawg" every time it sees me.
On to the reason you bought this...the actual gameplay...
Graphically, it is noticeably improved over the Xbox 360 for Battlefield, Forza, and NBA 2k14. If fact, those three games are stunningly good. The attention to detail on all of those games is remarkable, particularly in Forza and NBA 2K14. I think Battlefield was already amazing on the 360 version because it was made at the tail end of the life cycle for the 360 and on the front end of the Xbox One life cycle.
This doesn't have a whole lot to do with the Xbox One console itself, but EA should be embarrassed by the Madden product they produced for the Xbox One. I had the 360 version of Madden and traded up to get the Xbox One version, and to say that it's a direct port from the 360 version would be an insult to the 360 version. Many of the cool things about the 360 version were mysteriously left out of the Xbox One version, particularly the pregame intro videos that were on the 360. Beyond that, the best thing that can be said about the Xbox One Madden is that it's the only football game going on Xbox One. I presume that subsequent year's versions will be better as EA figures out how to utilize the graphical power of the Xbox One. Forza and NBA 2K14 need to be automatic purchases as they are clearly made for this console and show off it's power. I'm not even a big NBA fan, and I strongly recommend it just for showing off the console itself.
If you owned the 360 version from its inception (2005 or 2006, I can't remember), then you know the games got much better as its life cycle got longer. I suspect that a year, two years from now, the games on the Xbox One will be out of this world. I'm not at all a PC gamer, so you folks may just snicker at that comment. But, for me as an occasional console gamer, I think the Xbox One has its best days in front of them for a long while.
Microsoft has promised many updates to fix some of the issues that are cropping up, and I have no reason to doubt them. They made good on many of the issues that plagued the 360, and they have not been passed on to the Xbox One. As minor as the issues are on the Xbox One, I have no reason to believe that they won't address them as they did on the Xbox 360. I've read Cnet and others say that you should wait to get the Xbox One and the PS4 for that matter. I'm not entirely sure why you should punish yourself and wait. The updates are all streamed down through the internet, and there is no talk of improving hardware in future iterations at all. If you want one now, get one. Be patient and enjoy it for what it is. You will enjoy it straight out of the box, and I feel certain you can rest assured this will only get better.
If I think of anything else that would be pertinent, I will update as we go. Feel free to ask questions as you wish. Hopefully, you have found this helpful. Merry Christmas, all.
What's great about it: Gaming Graphics, attempt at TV integration
What's not so great: Still in need of a few updates
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+48points
54of 60voted this as helpful.
sarfdawg's Review Comments
The GreenPower MP HDP 900G 8-Outlets Surge Suppressor provides the advanced protection you need to keep all your valuable equipment protected against even the most powerful surges. The Exclusive Dual Mode Plus automatically disconnects to isolate your equipment from harmful surges and spikes. It also sounds an alarm to let you know that the Surge Suppressor has protected your electronics from dangerous power conditions. It features patented HD Clean Power filtering that is precision-engineered to remove electrical noise and interference. This protects the delicate circuitry inside your HDTV and other electronics from unnecessary wear.
Overall
1 out of 5
1 out of 5Would not recommend because of the switching
By reenee
from Winston Salem, NC
I had all kinds of trouble with this product because of the switching it sets up for the tv, dvd player, etc. It actually turns off the video signal. The technician that came out to set up the tv said he doesn't recommend the product to customers because of the switching also!
sarfdawg
Cumming, GA
?
August 5, 2011
Forgive my ignorance, but in all seriousness, I don't know what you mean by "turns off the video signal." I would appreciate your elaborating.
0points
0of 0voted this comment as helpful.
This cleaning kit includes miniPRO II, FilterKlear and LensPen accessories for cleaning fingerprints and dust from most lenses. The retractable brush ensures long-lasting use.
Overall
5 out of 5
5 out of 5Great product
By silverboy64
from Columbia, MO
Product is easy to use, and self contained. does what it says. This is just more jiberish because it told me the review was too shot. really, you have to be long winded to write a review? that's why I hate these things!
sarfdawg
Cumming, GA
December 29, 2013
That was classic. Thanks for the laugh!
0points
0of 0voted this comment as helpful.
LG Watch Urbane Smartwatch: Stay connected with this convenient smartwatch, which delivers smart notifications based on a prioritized ranking system to help you manage your schedule. Just say "OK Google" to send a text message, play a track or search the Web.
Overall5 out of 5
5 out of 5An Upgrade from my Moto 360 in many ways
By SynPlex
I've had my Urbane for about 5 days now, and coming from my a Moto 360 they're definitely a few upgrades that justified my purchase beside the fact that it's a Classy/Beautiful looking watch.
Improvement over Moto 360:
-Full Round Display (No flat tire)
-Brighter OLED Display (Richer color and great outdoor clarity)
-Better Battery Life (Moto 360 was about 20 hrs, Urbane is easily 36 hrs)
-Slightly Faster processes (Thx to the newer processor app open quicker)
-Standard 22mm Straps (No chunk removal necessary- Moto 360 bands aren't standard)
Improvement over Moto 360:
-Full Round Display (No flat tire)
-Brighter OLED Display (Richer color and great outdoor clarity)
-Better Battery Life (Moto 360 was about 20 hrs, Urbane is easily 36 hrs)
-Slightly Faster processes (Thx to the newer processor app open quicker)
-Standard 22mm Straps (No chunk removal necessary- Moto 360 bands aren't standard)
--- As long as the watch meets your style you can't go wrong ;-)
sarfdawg
Cumming, GA
good stuff to know
June 4, 2015
I am considering purchasing one of these or the Moto 360 for my wife, who is an avid runner. Do you feel like the apps (particularly the health apps, if you have knowledge of these) warrant the extra $200 in the price? I'm not sure I can justify the difference based solely on what you said in your review. Thanks a bunch!
+1point
1of 1voted this comment as helpful.
LG G4 Cell Phone for Verizon Wireless: Stay connected and entertained both at home and on the go with a vivid 5.5" touch screen and 4G LTE speed. Make sure you're ready to capture special moments as they unfold with the 16.0MP rear-facing cameraVerizon Edge option available in store. Learn more ›
Overall
2 out of 5
2 out of 5Thank Goodness for the 14-Day Return Policy...
By buckeye53
I've had only Samsung phones for the past 5 years or so, but the LG's specs were so amazing (not to mention the $100 gift card), I had to have it-- pre-ordered on 5/23. I was rewarded with 2 dead pixels on the first day. My S4 was dropped countless times, the screen was shattered, but never lost its integrity like this one did within the first few hours. Taking it back today - unsure if I will exchange for another for a second chance (only because of the gift card) or more likely go with my heart over budget and get the Note Edge. Giving 2 stars because it seems like a terrific phone otherwise. Had this happened a year from now, I honestly wouldn't care. But the display was my primary reason for purchasing it, and after waiting 18 months for my upgrade, I'd like all of my pixels to last beyond the first 18 hours.
sarfdawg
Cumming, GA
Same thing happened to me
June 10, 2015
Best Buy fired mine up, and I had a dead corner of the phone. They made it right.
One thing I want to point out in these reviews. If someone gives a low score on a review - like the two stars on this one - it doesn't make it a BAD review. Reviews are opinions. Just because you don't like this opinion doesn't mean that it's not helpful. This guy is getting killed (8 for 60 when I saw it), and he was actually correct in what he said.
Good job Buckeye53. Thanks for your review.
-4points
0of 4voted this comment as helpful.
Samsung Galaxy S6 Cell Phone for Sprint: This phone is constructed from metal and glass for a sturdy, high-quality build, while its ultra-fast processer makes for exceptional multitasking. It comes packed with features, like a fingerprint reader, advanced cameras on both sides of the phone, and a heart rate monitor. Plus, Samsung Pay allows you to swipe this phone as if it were a credit card to process fast, secure payments without pulling out your wallet.Sprint Easy Pay option available in store. Learn more ›
Overall1 out of 5
1 out of 5Terrible phone
By Disappointed
Will never buy another phone from best buy. Nothing the salesman told me about the phone was true. And now I'm stuck in a 2 year contract with service that is terrible, and a phone that does nothing that I told the salesman I needed.
sarfdawg
Cumming, GA
June 21, 2015
Curious as to what specifically is wrong with the phone. Not doubting it, just wondering...
0points
0of 0voted this comment as helpful.
Pioneer In-Dash CD/DVD Receiver: Make roadtrips and commutes more enjoyable with this receiver's playback of CD, DVD, MP3 and more. The rear USB and rear auxiliary inputs offer flexible connectivity with your mobile devices.Geek Squad® installation is strongly recommended for this product. Please visit your local Best Buy store for details.
Overall4 out of 5
4 out of 5Excellent sounding head unit with a few flaws.
By teeemack
from Atlanta, Ga
I love this radio! I installed it in my 99 Solara (perfect fit). The sound is perfect, the customization, back up camera, bluetooth all work well. What does not work well is the pioneer app. I can't understand how in 2016 with all the advancement in cell phone tech that pioneer cant seem to get it's apps to work with the radio. You can get navigation through its app if it works. I wish pioneer would include garmin or tom tom maps with it's head units and have it for less than $400.
I don't know why this radio is not available in best buy stores or even included in search. I did not buy it from Best Buy.
I don't know why this radio is not available in best buy stores or even included in search. I did not buy it from Best Buy.
sarfdawg
Cumming, GA
Exactly right
May 30, 2016
You couldn't have hit the nail on the head any better. This is a perfect assessment. I love all parts of the radio, but I'm baffled by the pain in the neck that AppRadio One is. I have the Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge, and I've got no chance of getting this app to work...therefore, no nav.
0points
0of 0voted this comment as helpful.
sarfdawg's Questions
sarfdawg has not submitted any questions.
sarfdawg's Answers
How much is it to install a radio that I bought from Best Buy online?
I bought a JVC IN-dash CD deck from Best Buy online, is it free to install if I go to Best Buy?
It's about $100 if it's just a regular install. SiriusXM, backup cams, remote start go up from there.
7 years, 10 months ago
by
sarfdawg
I want to buy a new radio
I have 6 speakers in my vehicle what do I look for in a stereo system to get the best sounds
I just bought the receiver below and had Best Buy do the install. Highly recommend. Sound is fantastic.
Products from my answer
Pioneer - 6.2" - CD/DVD - Built-in Bluetooth - Apple® iPod®- and Satellite-Radio Ready - In-Dash Receiver - Black
(18)7 years, 10 months ago
by
sarfdawg
Car audio installation choices
I have a 2004 Siubaru Forester. I 'd like to install a system that has the following: MP3 capable, sattlelite radio, Bluetooth, HD radio and CD. What do you recommend?
I just reviewed the Pioneer AVHX3800BHS receiver. I HIGHLY recommend this receiver as it hits all of the criteria in your question.
Products from my answer
Pioneer - 6.2" - CD/DVD - Built-in Bluetooth - Apple® iPod®- and Satellite-Radio Ready - In-Dash Receiver - Black
(18)7 years, 10 months ago
by
sarfdawg