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- Review count59
- Helpfulness votes426
- First reviewNovember 16, 2016
- Last reviewNovember 9, 2023
- Featured reviews0
- Average rating4.2
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Stay entertained with this Uxbridge Voice smart speaker. The Wi-Fi connectivity lets you stream music, while the integrated Amazon Alexa app allows for seamless hands-free operation. This Bluetooth-enabled Uxbridge Voice smart speaker has a 54Hz to 20,000Hz frequency range for efficient sound delivery, and the dual-microphone system blocks out background noise for clear audio.
Posted by: DonMc
from Rochester, NY
I really wanted to love this speaker, but the Marshall Uxbridge Bluetooth has a few limitations, not the least of which is its incompatibility with the Apple iPod series of Mp3 players.
First off, the app is terrible, it’s ambiguous and often unresponsive. I initially tried to connect the speaker to my iPod 6. No go. The iPod would pair with the speaker, it just never connected. When I abandoned the iPod, and attempted to set it up using my iPad, I finally had some semblance of success. I contacted tech support for assistance (they were great by the way) and we tried repeatedly to suss out the problem. I even tried to set it up using a second iPod. Nothing. I was informed that there was an issue with older Bluetooth standards like 4.0. The speaker connected flawlessly on my Android phone and tablet.
I was informed there was a forthcoming firmware upgrade for the speaker, so I waited for it to be released.
The new firmware and app upgrades failed to solve the problem with the iPod. So, if you have an iPod, I would contact Marshall before buying this speaker to see if they’ve resolved the compatibility issue.
The new firmware and app upgrades failed to solve the problem with the iPod. So, if you have an iPod, I would contact Marshall before buying this speaker to see if they’ve resolved the compatibility issue.
The speaker itself is a solid device with impressive weight. It features their very cool trademark Marshall amp design. The grill is plastic and feels cheap, however the rest of the design is impressive.
The speaker really excels at delivering beautifully crisp and clear high and midrange tones. It was superb at bringing out subtle percussion instruments. I was less impressed with the bass response. There was not much distortion, but the richness just wasn’t there. At a high volume, the speaker did not deliver a quality sound.
Despite it’s smallish size, its mobility is limited by the need for a constant A/C power source.
Despite it’s smallish size, its mobility is limited by the need for a constant A/C power source.
To reiterate, I really wanted to love this Uxbridge speaker by Marshall, but it just did not wow me, nor did it rise above other speakers in its class. I’ve owned a LOT of Bluetooth compatible speakers, and trust me, there are better options out there, and at a lower price point. It’s an attractive, stylish speaker, so if you prefer style over substance, go for it.
Pros:
Beautiful highs and midrange tones
Sturdy feel and solid design
Alexa compatible
Beautiful highs and midrange tones
Sturdy feel and solid design
Alexa compatible
Cons:
At the time of this review, this speaker does work with the Apple iPod
Underwhelming bass response
The accompanying app needs work
Cheap plastic grill
At the time of this review, this speaker does work with the Apple iPod
Underwhelming bass response
The accompanying app needs work
Cheap plastic grill
Mobile Submission: False
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
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Simplify your facial grooming regimen with this Philips Norelco shaver. The corded design supports uninterrupted shaving, while the 4-D flex heads conform to the planes and angles of your face, delivering an ultra-smooth, close shave. This Philips Norelco shaver features rounded blade caps for a gentle gliding cut that's comfortable.
Posted by: DonMc
from Rochester, NY
Disclaimer: I use this razor to shave my head only. I have a full beard.
This Philips Norelco shaver replaces my cordless foil shaver. I find the flex heads handle the contours of my head better than my old foil shaver did, but I really miss the cordless feature of my old razor.
This razor is whisper quiet. I can use it in the morning without waking my girlfriend. It is extremely lightweight, almost to the point it feels flimsy, but this this baby does it’s job. I can still feel a bit of stubble on my head after I use it, but the stubble isn’t visible. Also, since the cord affects its ability to travel, a travel pouch would have been nice. I already have to remember to pack too many cords.
Obviously, there are much better options out there, but for a fraction of the cost of those better options, this razor will do just fine. I’ll recommend it based on its value for the money.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Quiet
- The flex heads contour to the cutting surface beautifully.
- Great price point
- Quiet
- The flex heads contour to the cutting surface beautifully.
- Great price point
Cons:
- Cord!
- Doesn’t cut as close as I’d like
- Travel case would be helpful.
- Cord!
- Doesn’t cut as close as I’d like
- Travel case would be helpful.
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Keep your computers, phones, and tablets in peak performance with this AVG software. AVG TuneUp will help you free up precious disk space, remove unnecessary junk files, and get your devices running smoother and faster than before.
Posted by: DonMc
from Rochester, NY
The AVG Tuneup is the Swiss Army knife of software. It cleans your Android- based phone, PC and Mac of unnecessary files, apps, leftover installation files, etc... Honestly, this program has so many facets, it would take a novella to explain everything it does.
My laptop has a plethora of resource consuming files on it. All the ‘stuff’ I have installed (and uninstalled) on my PC has caused some serious performance issues, including; slow boot times, slow program loads and lockups. The first task I had AVG TuneUp perform was to locate and eliminate registry issues, delete zombie files and defragment my hard drive. This program gives you a lot of options that allow you to fine tune the tasks you want completed.
Long story short, my laptop boots a little faster now since I eliminated several files and links that it had to examine during the boot process.
Long story short, my laptop boots a little faster now since I eliminated several files and links that it had to examine during the boot process.
Then, I ran the app on my Galaxy 10+. TuneUp cleaned my phone of hundred of megs of unnecessary files and duplicate photos. It saves battery life by putting apps to sleep when they aren’t in use.
AVG TuneUp is a great program that keeps your device running at optimal performance. It performs so many tasks, that I can’t begin to fully explain them all. I gave it only four stars because I absolutely HATE subscription based software, as it’s nothing more than a money grab. Once upon a time, you purchased software and used it until a new version came out, then, at your option, you purchased the latest version. Nowadays, you have to pay for it again whether it’s been given a substantial update or not.
As good as this software is, I won’t be renewing it when my year is up.
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Take the guesswork out of the equation with this Breville the Smooth Wave microwave. Sensor iQ technology monitors the amount of steam produced during the cooking process and automatically adjusts the power level, preventing overcooked and burned food. This Breville the Smooth Wave microwave features 15 smart presets for one-touch operation, and the soft-close door helps avoid loud slams.
Posted by: DonMc
from Rochester, NY
This Breville Smooth Wave microwave replaces my 10 year old unit that worked faithfully. But I was intrigued by a ‘smart’ microwave, having no idea what that entailed. I was honestly surprised at the versatility of this oven. It comes with several cooking presets (including a bacon preset!).
With my old oven, I always covered my food to prevent splatter. This caused a problem with the sensor detecting when the food was sufficiently warmed up, and resulted in my food being hot beyond immediate consumption, and the plate being heated to 2000 degrees kelvin. This Breville unit has Smart Reheat, so even though my food is covered, it is sufficiently heated with no cold spots, and the container isn’t blisteringly hot.
The Smart Cook button takes the guesswork away, it will automatically choose the correct cooking temperature for the right amount of time. Press Smart cook, then select food type; select quantity or weight, and sit back and wait to eat. Awesome feature!
The feature I find most useful is the Keep Warm button. After your food is finished cooking/reheating, the oven operates at a low power setting to keep your food warm until you remove it. I’m not good at timing my meals, and it seems I always start the microwave too soon, so my food gets done before my other cooking tasks are complete. For me, this feature alone makes this oven worth having.
For the tasks that you perform frequently, you can save those settings as Favorites to save time and buttonstrokes
This oven comes with a door handle. I miss the simple Open Door button that’s helpful when my hands are full. Also, this handle sticks out nearly two inches. The way my kitchen is set up, I’ve found myself bumping into the handle when walking out of my kitchen.
The setting dials require an extra step that simply required a button press on most microwave ovens. You also have to open the oven door in order to access the preset buttons, which are inexplicably placed inside the oven, behind the door. This oven is very lightweight, and doesn’t feel as sturdy as other quality ovens.
Overall, aside from the extra steps, button presses and dial turns, this oven delivers. It gives steady performance and is visually appealing. The only reason I didn’t give five stars is because of its very high price point. It’s a great device, just not worth so much money.
Pros:
- Keep Warm feature
- Smart settings save time and guesswork
- Over a dozen cooking presets
- Cooking sensors aren’t affected by containers/coverings
- Keep Warm feature
- Smart settings save time and guesswork
- Over a dozen cooking presets
- Cooking sensors aren’t affected by containers/coverings
Cons:
- High price point
- Cumbersome handle
- Cooking presets are inside the microwave door
- High price point
- Cumbersome handle
- Cooking presets are inside the microwave door
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+3points
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Vary your strength training workouts with this JAXJOX KettlebellConnect adjustable smart kettlebell. Six weight settings between 12 and 42 lbs. suit different skill levels and exercise routines, and the JAXJOX app lets you record activity data for easy goal monitoring. The wide-grip handle of this JAXJOX KettlebellConnect adjustable smart kettlebell provides comfortable two-handed lifting.
Posted by: DonMc
from Rochester, NY
At it’s core, this is a very cool product. Who doesn’t love it when your exercises and daily workout habits are automatically, electronically monitored?
The KettlebellConnect by JaxJox allows you to easily select the amount of weight you want use for your workout. The LCD readout on the base unit lets you select the desired weight in six pound increments ranging from 12 to 42 pounds.
The companion app tracks your exercises as you workout. I found the rep counter to be slightly off, as it didn’t accurately count my reps. Which leads me to the app: it locked up on me several times when using it on my Galaxy Note 10+ phone. I didn’t attempt to use the app on my IOS devices. On a personal peeve: this app, like many others, asks for too much personal information. In this age of data theft, I try to avoid disseminating too much of my personal information. I don’t understand why the app asks for email verification and your birth date, when all it needs is your age rage. I entered an approximate birth date and my throwaway email address to avoid the spam.
The app contains several exercise videos that you can follow along to help you get the most from your kettlebell.
This is a pretty cool device. Kettlebells are very versatile pieces of equipment. There are much less expensive, non-tech versions available out there, but if you’re into fitness and tech, and have (lots) of disposable income, this product is right up your alley. If you’re a no-frills gym rat, look elsewhere; this thing cost more than many annual gym memberships.
Pros:
- Electronically selectable weights
- Great piece of training equipment
- The app tracks your progress
- Several workout videos
- Electronically selectable weights
- Great piece of training equipment
- The app tracks your progress
- Several workout videos
Cons:
- High price point
- Faulty, inaccurate app
- The device needs to be charged to be utilized effectively
- High price point
- Faulty, inaccurate app
- The device needs to be charged to be utilized effectively
Mobile Submission: False
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
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Capture video while driving with this Nextbase 422GW dash camera. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity automatically sync footage to your phone for easier editing and sharing, and the 2.5-inch IPS touch screen offers intuitive control with upgraded resolution. This Nextbase 422GW dash camera with Alexa built-in uses a G-sensor and SOS response service, safeguarding your footage upon impact while alerting emergency services for safety and a prompt response.
Posted by: DonMc
from Rochester, NY
If you’ve ever watched dash cam videos on YouTube, you’ll immediately get an idea what a valuable device they can be. No more, ‘your word against theirs’; now, you’ll have indisputable video evidence (I sound like an NFL referee)
This 422GW dash cam from NextBase is a thing of beauty. It has 1440p HD recording that is ultra clear. You don’t need to be a gear head to install it, the (downloadable) manual gives pretty clear instructions on running the wiring in your car. I’ll admit, I struggled a bit to keep the wiring hidden, but after a little perseverance (and a lot of cussing), I managed to run the wire to my satisfaction. I’ve watched videos of people ripping out parts of their A pillar to install the cable. In my car, there’s an airbag in my A pillar, so no way was I risking that. There is also an optional hardwire kit that allows you to connect the cam directly to your vehicle’s fusebox (no, to that, too)
The phone app is not bad. I used the app to connect my phone to the cam and install the firmware upgrade. The app also allows you watch live streams of your camera. The dash cam video can be configured to record in one, two or three minute intervals. I wasn’t crazy about that feature, because I was looking forward to watching a video I recorded while driving through a local state park. It was a pain to find the right video amongst several of them.
Hopefully, you’ll never need it, but the camera will detect a crash, and provide valuable information (GPS location, speed of vehicle, time of incident, and sounds (provided you have those feature activated).
Dash cams are a fun, yet vital part of driving. Protect yourself by investing in one. I highly recommend this one, it’ll provide everything you’ll need.
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Watch over areas remotely with this Defender 2K Wireless IP security camera. The IP67-certified metal housing offers protection against inclement weather conditions, while the integrated app lets you watch footage live from a smartphone. This Defender 2K Wireless IP security camera uses 128-bit encryption to help secure the video feed.
Posted by: DonMc
from Rochester, NY
Because of the rise of ‘porch pirates’ in my area, the need for security cameras has never been greater. The Defender - Indoor/Outdoor 2K Wi-Fi Wireless Security Camera is just one of several cameras designed to combat this problem.
The camera connects to your wi-fi network, which allows you to access the video feed from the camera remotely on your smart phone with the app. Connecting the camera to my wireless network caused me no end of consternation. After several attempts, I gave up and connected the camera via Ethernet cable. Once the camera was connected, it worked flawlessly with my Wi-Fi.
Due to the need to maintain a constant Wi-Fi connection, and power supply, your camera placement options may be impacted. There is only a 10 foot power cord included, so if you aren’t very handy, you may require assistance with installation.
The miniSD card that comes with the camera is only 16gb; if you’re recording in HD (which you’ll definitely want to do because the SD video quality is extremely noisy), you won’t be recording much before the video overwrites itself. A 128gb card is recommended.
With the app installed on your phone, you’ll get video motion alerts on your phone if you choose to record detected motion only. Again, this is where camera placement comes into play, because if the camera is aimed toward a high traffic area, it won’t be long before you’ll be turning off those alerts before they drive you insane (the recording can be set to record either motion only, or record continuously).
The camera boasts in impressive 100 foot visual range in night vision mode.
Overall, this is a decent, entry-level security camera that will fit your needs provided your needs aren’t too demanding. The app isn’t the best I’ve seen; it’s very limited in terms of configuration and performance. However, due to the low price point, this camera is worth the investment.
Pros:
- No monthly monitoring fees
- Wireless connection allows you to monitor the camera remotely
- Low price point
- Impressive night vision
- Decent HD quality
- No monthly monitoring fees
- Wireless connection allows you to monitor the camera remotely
- Low price point
- Impressive night vision
- Decent HD quality
Cons:
- Horrible SD quality
- Limited app
- Requires a constant a/c power source
- May require professional installation
- Horrible SD quality
- Limited app
- Requires a constant a/c power source
- May require professional installation
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+1point
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Protect your 11-inch iPad Pro from dings, dents and scratches with this Logitech slim folio case. The textured surface helps prevent slipping, while the rubberized feet provide solid traction and elevation for improved airflow. This Logitech slim folio case has a slender design, making storing and transporting simple, and the built-in stow holds and charges a 2nd-generation Apple Pencil.
Posted by: DonMc
from Rochester, NY
For me, the most important aspect of an iPad case is its ability to protect your investment from damage incurred from drops. This keyboard is solidly built, and I feel fairly confident it can withstand a drop from four feet, or so. I’ve owned several keyboard cases for my iPads in the past, but this one is the best I’ve ever owned.
If you own, or have used a MacBook, you’ll love the familiarity of the layout of this keyboard, as it mimics the standard Apple keyboard. As much as I love my 11” iPad, it frustrates me that they’ve removed the Home button. It was oh, so convenient to press the home button to close the current app, and again to return to the main screen (In my opinion, Apple dropped the ball by eliminating the Home key). Thankfully, this keyboard has a home key placed in a convenient location at the top left corner of the keyboard.
This keyboard seriously converts my iPad into a computer. So much so, that I’ve found myself moving my finger around, looking for the touchpad because it felt like I was using my laptop. I have very large hands, but I’ve found this keyboard easy to type on. The tactile keys are better than a lot of laptops I’ve used.
The securing flap has a pocket that provides a home for your Apple Pencil, should you happen to own one; and it keeps the Pencil charged while being stored. I just use the pouch for my inexpensive dollar store stylus.
If you have the slightest desire to purchase a keyboard for your iPad Pro, I strongly recommend that this is the one to get. Albeit there are less expensive options, I’ve never seen one this this many options, durability and functionality.
Pros:
- Durable
- Great tactile keys
- Home key
- Mimics the MacBook keyboard.
- Long battery life (advertises 3 months)
- Durable
- Great tactile keys
- Home key
- Mimics the MacBook keyboard.
- Long battery life (advertises 3 months)
Cons:
- No multi-position angles for the iPad
- No portrait position
- No multi-position angles for the iPad
- No portrait position
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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1of 1voted this as helpful.
Watch sports and movies on this 55-inch Hisense H8F Android smart TV. The Dolby Vision High Dynamic Range adds vivid color, brightness and contrast to every image, and the built-in Google Assistant provides control of this TV with voice commands. This Hisense H8F Android smart TV has Motion Rate 240, decreasing eye-strain and creating smooth motion.
Posted by: DonMc
from Rochester, NY
The first thing I liked about the Hisense 4K UHD Smart TV was how incredibly easy it was to set up. The TV asked me to enter my Google account via my smartphone to expedite the setup process. By taking advantage of this feature, the TV connected itself to my WIFi without having to enter any information on the TV itself. Also, some of my apps had my information transferred so I didn’t have to go to each and every app to sign in again. Netflix and Google were up and ready to go. You are also given the opportunity to register your TV by simply choosing ‘Yes’ when asked.
Even though this is a smart TV, I still opted to use my Roku Stick and My Amazon Fire Cube. (the TV remote worked flawlessly with my FireCube, eliminating the need to switch remotes) Fortunately, this TV provides four HDMI ports. When I use the input button on the remote, the HDMI options are displayed, and the HDMI ports with my devices plugged in display the actual name of the device. Rather than seeing the usual HDMI 1, the display shows ‘Fire TV Cube’; HDMI 2 reads ROKU (you are also given the option to name them yourself, nice!)
The TV has a very thin bezel, which takes full advantage of the screen size. Speaking of the screen, this one is a beauty! While I was underwhelmed with the quality of the 4K Amazon Fire Cube, the picture was stunning when watching a Blu-Ray movie.
For the price point, this is an outstanding unit! Highly recommended!
Pros:
Very easy setup via your Google account.
Four HDMI ports
No need to activate certain apps
Nice image quality; especially with Blu-ray
Decent price point
Versatile, intuitive remote control
Very easy setup via your Google account.
Four HDMI ports
No need to activate certain apps
Nice image quality; especially with Blu-ray
Decent price point
Versatile, intuitive remote control
Cons:
- Quality didn’t stack up to the higher priced 4K sets (but at this price point, I can live with it)
- Quality didn’t stack up to the higher priced 4K sets (but at this price point, I can live with it)
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+4points
6of 8voted this as helpful.
Enjoy the look and feel of a well-groomed beard with this Philips Norelco series 70 beard trimmer. With an ergonomic grip, this beard trimmer offers enhanced comfort and control. This Philips Norelco series 70 beard trimmer prevents skin irritation and features steel blades, making it ideal for cutting each hair with accuracy and precision.
Posted by: DonMc
from Rochester, NY
Initially, I was wholly skeptical about this Philips Norelco Beard Trimmer. I’ve owned at least a dozen of these trimmers over the years to keep my beard from going all ZZ Top, and I’ve only had one that I was completely happy with, until now.
First off, the claim that this trimmer had a built-in vacuum that captures 90% of my hair, definitely caused some eye rolling. However, after using it, I would like to formally apologize to P/N for my skepticism, because this trimmer totally captured 90% of my hair! Comparatively, there was very little hair in my sink, and a ton of it inside the trimmer.
The adjustable guide system on this trimmer is convenient. No more trying to figure out which guide is best for which task; just turn the guide dial on the trimmer, it displays the setting you’re currently on. This trimmer had a very low learning curve, I got my beard exactly how I wanted it on my first attempt.
The adjustable guide system on this trimmer is convenient. No more trying to figure out which guide is best for which task; just turn the guide dial on the trimmer, it displays the setting you’re currently on. This trimmer had a very low learning curve, I got my beard exactly how I wanted it on my first attempt.
This trimmer trims my beard as well as my barber does. It cuts evenly and smoothly; my beard looks fantastic, and it only took a few minutes. For the record, my beard has very curly and coarse hair, and this trimmer handled it beautifully. Honestly, I have no need to return to the barbershop (other than to talk sports and politics), and because of that fact, this trimmer will pay for itself in no time.
Highest Recommendation!
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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-2points
1of 4voted this as helpful.
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