Share zpenguin's profile
zpenguin
zpenguin's stats
- Review count13
- Helpfulness votes34
- First reviewJune 10, 2014
- Last reviewNovember 5, 2017
- Featured reviews0
- Average rating4.2
Reviews comments
- Review comment count0
- Helpfulness votes0
- First review commentNone
- Last review commentNone
- Featured review comments0
Questions
- Question count0
- Helpfulness votes0
- First questionNone
- Last questionNone
- Featured questions0
- Answer count3
- Helpfulness votes0
- First answerJune 10, 2014
- Last answerApril 21, 2017
- Featured answers0
- Best answers0
Cut the cord while still enjoying broadcast TV with this SiliconDust HDHomeRun CONNECT Dual tuner. The 1080i definition creates a crisp, high-quality picture, and you can watch shows on up to two TVs at once. The HDHomeRun App, that can be installed on a wide range of smart devices allows you to record and pause live TV.
Customer Rating
4
Works well with good router
on November 5, 2017
Posted by: zpenguin
from Maryland
Verified Purchase:Yes
HDHomeRun allows you to literally walk around the house with a TV in one hand. This would have been considered just a dream a few years ago and nobody 20 years ago would have dreamed of this. The TV I am describing is actually a tablet (iPad or Android - you supply yourself or sold separately). Although, you should have a fairly good tablet and router to use this product. Since this product does not "transcode" - i.e. compress the video on the fly, there is a lot of data that has to be carried by your router (recommend AC router or better) and the tablet must be able to process this to avoid pixelation. The video will break up if you are any distance from your router unless you have a good AC1200, AC1750, AC1900, AC3200 dual or triband router. An N router will work, just don't stray too far from your router. Forget about using anything less than an N router - the pixelation and breakup of images make the product unusable. Also, your client (tablet, PC) on the receiving end should be a fairly good/modern product. Don't try to use an end-of-life product and expect good results. Other than that, this product works very well using prescribed good tablet/router combination. Some bugs/minor-glitches on the client software, but they are not too bad. Mainly just start the software on the tablet in landscape (not start the software in portrait orientation) and you should be just fine. In other words, all the bugs are tolerable and if you work around them, the product adds so much convenience and value that you forget about the short-commings. Don't expect perfect from this product, especially considering its pricing as compared to other products. Also, consider that you DO NOT have to pay a subscription like TiVo. The subscription on TiVo is highway robbery compared to free over the air TV and this product (compare, and you will see what I mean). You can pay for a subscription on this product to get a better TV guide (channel listing), but that is optional and only if you want PVR and extended channel listing capability. This is a very good product for the price.
My Best Buy number: 0026223568
My Best Buy number: 0026223568
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share this review:
+14points
15of 16voted this as helpful.
Listen to music wherever you want with this Pioneer wireless audio receiver. It connects via wireless technology to music services such as Pandora and Spotify. Any mobile device connect to program the receiver, which uses the Google Cast app. This Pioneer audio wireless receiver delivers quality sound with 400W of power. Includes HDMI 4K Ultra HD and 3D pass-through technologies for compatibility with 3D TVs, Blu-ray players and gaming consoles and 4K Ultra HD TVs.
Customer Rating
4
Nice entry level Pioneer Elite Receiver
on September 10, 2017
Posted by: zpenguin
from Maryland
Verified Purchase:Yes
The focus on receivers today bend more towards selling you a computer product than high fidelity. Sure, you get good sound from this product, but the computerized functions, such as connecting to the NET for Chromecast, Pandora, or other online streaming is where the industry is going. Not saying that this is bad, but convenience appears to be more important than other factors. Now, after saying that, the time for the receiver to "wake up" when turning on and switching to different functions is a little slow. My other complaints include the lack of input/output functionality for legacy products, such as RCA inputs, optical inputs, and composite video. That should not be a problem for anyone that does not plan on connecting a bunch of old tape decks, etc. Most people won't need that, since HDMI is the modern way to go. And since HDMI has ARC (audio return channel), connecting one TV meets most everyone's requirements. There is one optical input, so it is not that bad. The sound is crystal clear and distortion is low enough that it won't be noticed by most people and can only be detected with professional measuring equipment. For large rooms and theaters, this is not the receiver for you because you might want a little more power, but for most home living rooms or even family rooms, it is adequate, especially if you have one or two subwoofers and most of the power is handled by them. You may hear some clicking noise during normal operations of this product. That is normal due to the internal relays that connect/configure the speakers appropriately for the different surround sound desired that is matched to the source. And if your source changes or if there is a "ripple" in the source, a clicking may be heard during the transition. The physical appearance of the receiver looks nice, and the "Elite" labeling helps with the ego ;-) The Pioneer app for iPad, iPhone, or Android is really cool and if you get the receiver, download this app because it is fun to play with. If you can dedicate an old device to use as your remote - even better! You will have a SUPER REMOTE. I have always wanted a "Pioneer Elite" receiver since my younger days and now I have finally got one. It is not the audio "tanks" that they use to build, with all discrete components, but the times have changed, and to keep with the times, so has their product. I don't mind the convenience. The distortion is still less than their old non-elite receivers that I may crank up from time to time to bring me down memory lane. This will probably go side-by-side with that one in my study room, as I look for a more heavy duty box for my theater, that is fairly large and so needs a little more heft.
My Best Buy number: 0026223568
My Best Buy number: 0026223568
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share this review:
+3points
5of 7voted this as helpful.
Experience true digital fiber-optic surround sound audio connections with this cable that is designed to connect both standard and high-definition components by sending digital surround sound audio signals through Toslink digital audio (S/PDIF) jacks.
Customer Rating
4
Optical cable does the job
on September 10, 2017
Posted by: zpenguin
from Maryland
Verified Purchase:Yes
Nice, good quality cable for the price that does the job. I would not say that the price is good if I did not get it on sale, but I did, so kudos to Best Buy for giving me that break. My cable was 8 ft long and that's about perfect in length for my purposes. Since it is digital, do not worry about any degradation in audio quality on less expensive cables since there will be none when the signal stays digital from the source to your receiver. This cable can be used on sound bars, connecting TVs to receivers, or other similar application. I like the fact that the cable has adequate thickness and padding for the fiber optic cable inside so that it offers enough protection from accidentally breaking the glass inside. The cable is not name brand (like "Monster") or such, but that is not necessary if you just want functionality. Besides, your friends won't be snooping around the back of your audio system, unless they are true hi-fi nuts, and you will not find many of those anymore. It does not have the fancy metal or gold plated end connectors, that would have bumped the rating to a 5 star, but that is not absolutely essential, unless you expect the cable to get extreme abuse, which an optical cable will not hold up to anyhow. This review is a little over kill for a low cost cable, but hope all the detail helps you on your purchasing decision. Thanks for reading.
My Best Buy number: 0026223568
My Best Buy number: 0026223568
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Type on anything with Logitech K480 Wireless Multi-Device Keyboard - a unique compact computer keyboard that also works with your tablet and smartphone. Easily switch between 3 connected Bluetooth devices by turning the EASY-SWITCH dial. Type in comfort with the familiar keyboard layout, with all the shortcut keys you use the most, whether you're typing on a Windows, Mac or Chrome computer, or an Android or iOS tablet or smartphone. Plus, this multi-device keyboard features an integrated cradle that holds your phone or tablet at just the right angle for you to read while you type.
Customer Rating
5
Excellent Bluetooth Keyboard
on June 12, 2017
Posted by: zpenguin
from Maryland
Verified Purchase:Yes
The Logitech K480 keyboard is an excellent choice for a keyboard to connect to your iPhone, Android, iPad, or other mobile device. Pros: 1. Key feel is nice 2. Touch placement is adequate and works for touch typing 3. Key travel is sufficient 4. Key stiffness is good 5. Tactile feedback is good 6. Weight and solid feel is Excellent 7. Battery life is great with ability to replace with standard/common AAA batteries 8. Ability to attach to 3 devices and switch between them with the rotary switch 9. Pairing works well and straight forward 10. Function keys like F1, F2, volume, cursor, etc. is a plus. Cons: Relatively few and I am nit-picking just to find any to say 1. Keyboard size, but this is a actually good because you do not want keys too small to touch type 2. Weight - it is a little heavy, but this adds to the solid feel and the keyboard does not move around when typing like some of the cheap stuff. 4. Limit connectivity to 3 devices; most people would not need to connect more. 5. Non-rechargeable - but that is not needed since it is so good with the use of batteries and replacement of batteries is with 2 standard AAA. 6. No speakers - wouldn't it be great if this keyboard even provided you with Bluetooth speaker capability in addition to the keyboard functionality? OK, that's a little out of scope for a keyboard, but that would make this product killer-good! Summary: Worth every penny and highly recommend. I like it so much, I pair it to my iPhone, iPad, and Computer. I had to choose, since there was only a maximum of 3 simultaneous connections and had to leave my Android tablet orphaned, but this allowed me to connect my most used devices. I like the keyboard so much, I use it even on my PC notebook computer because I like the keyboard better than the keyboard on the notebook computer! It also allows me to use one keyboard and switch between all my most used devices. So cool and convenient. It also allows me to use my iPad so much more so I do not use my PC as much. Full disclosure - I used this keyboard to write this evaluation - can you tell? ;-) This keyboard is a game changer!
My Best Buy number: 0026223568
My Best Buy number: 0026223568
Mobile Submission: True
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share this review:
+1point
1of 1voted this as helpful.
Only @ Best Buy Connect Google Chromecast to audio systems with this Toslink to mini Toslink cable. Connection options extend to surround-sound receivers, digital-to-analog converters and sound bars for enjoyable audio when streaming movies and music. This Toslink to mini Toslink cable measures 6 feet to meet various home audio setup needs and has copper connectors for optimal signal transfer.
Customer Rating
5
Works great with ChromeCast
on April 21, 2017
Posted by: zpenguin
from Maryland
Verified Purchase:Yes
This Toshlink cable to mini-Toshlink works great with Google Chromecast. You won't be disappointed. Digital sound quality and connection pairs perfectly with a receiver that has optical inputs. Optical input is superior to analog input because there is no conversion to analog by the Chromecast D/A converter. The Digital signal goes directly in my Pioneer Elite receiver (with higher quality audio components) for conversion to the analog signal before amplification. No degradation in sound quality for maximum fidelity! The result is highest quality sound.
Agreed - this cable is not a named brand cable. But digital is digital. The fiber was optically good enough to transmit the signal to the receiver, and for that reason - functionally - it works. So why pay the high prices? Generic in this case gets the job done.
Agreed - I could afford the more expensive cable if I have a Pioneer Elite receiver. But I guess I was just feeling a little cheap. So long as the cable is functional. I guess with that mentality, that's why I can afford good stuff like that receiver and the other components.
Agreed - I should stop talking at this point. :)
Thanks for reading and hope this review was helpful.
My Best Buy number: 0026223568
My Best Buy number: 0026223568
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
The Logitech Wireless Touch Keyboard K400 Plus lets you experience PC-to-TV entertainment the way you Watch video, browse the web, chat with friends and much more. The all-in-one keyboard with touchpad ends the hassle—and clutter—of multiple devices. And a 32.8-foot wireless range ensures your fun won’t be interrupted. Comfortable, quiet keys and a large (3.5-inch) touchpad make navigating entertainment effortless. Even setup is a snap thanks to the tiny, plug-and-play Unifying receiver.
Customer Rating
4
Excellent entertainment center keyboard
on October 28, 2016
Posted by: zpenguin
from Maryland
Verified Purchase:Yes
This is an excellent entertainment center keyboard. The keyboard is nice and small, it is wireless, and integrated trackpad instead of mouse makes it perfect for the family room entertainment system. Only downside is that the keys are not backlit so not great in a completely dark home theater. Other than that, a lot of bang for the buck!
My Best Buy number: 0026223568
My Best Buy number: 0026223568
Mobile Submission: True
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
The long hours at the office, toiling away at the computer, working your hands to the bone in the garage, your feet aching after a nearly endless shift — you work hard for your money, and every year at tax time, you want to make sure you receive your cash back. With H&R Block Tax Software Deluxe, you'll be able to prepare your 2015 taxes smoothly. The initial Q&A system gets you started on the road to receiving the largest possible refund. Transfer information quickly by importing data from software programs like TurboTax and Quicken, as well as information from your W-2 and 1099 forms and last year's return. An Accurate Calculations guarantee allows you to rest assured that your return is done right, while the Accuracy Review checks for any issues and audit risk. The software searches for hundreds of deductions to ensure you're getting the maximum amount with a Maximum Refund Guarantee that helps you feel satisfied and confident in your refund. Homeowners receive beneficial advice on tax planning, home ownership and retirement planning with maximum deductions for home mortgage interest and real estate taxes. Investors receive in-depth assistance on stocks, bonds and mutual funds with extra help for investment and dividend reporting. Enjoy a hassle-free solution to completing your taxes this year.
Posted by: zpenguin
from Maryland
Verified Purchase:Yes
Title says it all. Although the requirement of the review is to write more. Basically, the product is easy to use, straight forward and does the job. It has been around for a while so it is a mature product. Depending on the complexity of your own situation, this can make the task much easier and faster than doing it manually - worth the cost.
My Best Buy number: 0026223568
My Best Buy number: 0026223568
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Charging your Apple Watch is utterly effortless with an Apple solution that combines MagSafe technology with inductive charging. It's a completely sealed system free of exposed contacts. And it's very forgiving, requiring no precise alignment. You simply hold the connector near the back of the watch, where magnets cause it to snap into place automatically.
Posted by: zpenguin
from Maryland
Verified Purchase:Yes
This cable from Apple does its job. There are few products out there that will do the job of the magnetic induction cable since Apple has not officially released the specs so you are stuck buying their cable for a whopping $30 bucks ($40 if you need a little longer wire). I think that price is excessive for what you get and to add insult to injury, the watch itself was already expensive- why not give your customers a break? You almost really need this cable if you buy the smaller Apple watch since it does not last the entire day so it is convenient to have a spare cable (like at work or in the car). The larger Apple watch has a bigger internal battery so it will last about a day. BTW, do not forget to get a USB power supply. This is just the induction cable (wire only). NO POWER SUPPLY IS PROVIDED!
My Best Buy number: 0026223568
My Best Buy number: 0026223568
Mobile Submission: True
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share this review:
+2points
2of 2voted this as helpful.
Store your valuables in this Honeywell 5005W security safe, which features 2 steel live-locking bolts and concealed hinges to ensure thorough protection. The programmable electronic keypad gives you easy access to your items.
Posted by: zpenguin
from Maryland
Verified Purchase:Yes
Consider this a fancy lockable box for small items. I guess I wanted more, but the price was excellent. It is not a fire safe, but a lockable box with a fancy electronic lock. The inside is very small. Consider your needs before purchase.
My Best Buy number: 0026223568
My Best Buy number: 0026223568
Mobile Submission: True
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
Share this review:
+7points
7of 7voted this as helpful.
This SanDisk Connect SDWS2-032G-A57 USB 2.0 flash drive features a generous 32GB capacity for storing files and supports wireless streaming, so you can share media with up to 8 compatible devices.
Customer Rating
4
Good, convenient, and useful WiFi Thumb Drive
on July 4, 2015
Posted by: zpenguin
from Maryland
Verified Purchase:Yes
This is a good, convenient, and useful product. Basically, it is an expensive USB thumb drive, but goes beyond that. It offers WiFi connectivity of a uSD card for your tablet or phone, and is compatible with iOS or Android products. This makes for very convenient transfer of files between PC, Android, and iOS devices. The required apps that must be used with this device is a little cumbersome to use. However, the non-ergonomic app and somewhat expensive "thumb drive" is well worth the added cost in that it provides WiFi for moving personal files around between most of popular devices without use of the cloud.
My Best Buy number: 0026223568
My Best Buy number: 0026223568
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share this review:
+2points
2of 2voted this as helpful.
zpenguin's Review Comments
zpenguin has not submitted comments on any reviews.
zpenguin's Questions
zpenguin has not submitted any questions.
zpenguin's Answers
Only @ Best Buy Connect Google Chromecast to audio systems with this Toslink to mini Toslink cable. Connection options extend to surround-sound receivers, digital-to-analog converters and sound bars for enjoyable audio when streaming movies and music. This Toslink to mini Toslink cable measures 6 feet to meet various home audio setup needs and has copper connectors for optimal signal transfer.
Is this the same as a digital audio output cable. I need it for my tv to connect my sound bar.
Generally, the digital audio output cable would be a Toshlink to Toshlink cable and not the mini-Toshlink that is associated with this product. Actually, for digital signal, it can also be a coax cable, but most modern systems now use either the optical Toshlink cable or HDMI cable to transmit digital audio signal, or, in the latter case, audio and video signal. Of course, there is also the analog connections as well, but the digital is the route to go if your equipment is capable.
Products from my answer
Insignia™ - 6' Digital Optical Audio Cable - Black
(3,493)
Dynex™ - 8' Digital Optical Audio Cable - Black
(477)6 years, 11 months ago
by
zpenguin
Only @ Best Buy Connect Google Chromecast to audio systems with this Toslink to mini Toslink cable. Connection options extend to surround-sound receivers, digital-to-analog converters and sound bars for enjoyable audio when streaming movies and music. This Toslink to mini Toslink cable measures 6 feet to meet various home audio setup needs and has copper connectors for optimal signal transfer.
Could I plug this into my iPad and connect it to a sound bar?
No. The iPad does not have optical outputs. Although, if you were streaming to another device that does have optical outputs, like a Chromecast, then it would work, but I do not think that is what you meant. If you want to connect your iPad output for sound to be played on a soundbar, please consider getting a soundbar with BlueTooth(tm) capability.
6 years, 11 months ago
by
zpenguin
Save your files quickly with this WD My Passport Ultra external hard drive, which features a USB 3.0 interface for transmitting data at up to 480 Mbps. The 1TB capacity offers ample space for data backup and file storage.
Can I use this as a working external hardrive?
I am a CPA and have multiple companies QuickBooks Enterprise files saved in a Dropbox Folder which I work off of. I want to transfer my "working" copies of QuickBooks Enterprise to WD Passport and back up to DropBox but don't know if the WD works as an extended hard drive that I can work off of and it is saved in real time rather than having to start a back up process after I am finished with each company file. Please let me know.
You should be able to work off of this hard drive as long as it is attached to the computer through the USB cable. It looks from Windows no different than a second hard drive.
9 years, 10 months ago
by
zpenguin
Maryland