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MrPHD
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- Review count111
- Helpfulness votes155
- First reviewMarch 8, 2012
- Last reviewMay 10, 2024
- Featured reviews0
- Average rating4.4
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- Answer count32
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- First answerMarch 27, 2014
- Last answerOctober 27, 2021
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Expand your world with Meta Quest 3, a mixed reality headset that lets you jump into full immersion or blend physical and virtual worlds to transform your home into an exciting new playground. It’s the most powerful Quest yet, reimagined from the inside out with breakthrough technology. Extraordinary experiences come to life with lightning fast performance and dazzling details. And with the world's best library of 500+ immersive apps, there’s something for everyone to discover. Unlock access to the best immersive experiences with a 6-month subscription to Meta Quest+ and embark on a journey to save all of reality with the marquee VR action RPG Asgard’s Wrath 2. Included with purchase for a limited time. See child safety guidance online; Accounts for 10+.*Based on the graphic performance of the Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 vs Meta Quest 2. Asgard’s Wrath 2 is intended for mature audiences. Offer ends 6/30/24; terms apply. Eligibility and auto-renewal terms apply for trial subscriptions. See full terms.
Posted by: MrPHD
I tried the mixed reality game, First Encounters, which I found extremely entertaining, allowing me to walk 2 different areas shooting these creatures that were also hiding behind furniture. That was great, more games like this, and I'm all for it - that beats my PSVR2.
However, I didn't get the Quest for gaming (though I will obviously get a couple anyways, but the majority of my VR library exists on the PSVR and PSVR2). I got the Quest 3 for movies and productivity. My 2 favorite things right now Remote Display and Bigscreen Beta, and Peacock VR.
Remote Display allows you to work off your PC/laptop onto a GIANT screen, while still able to see your surroundings. I don't have room for a complete computer workstation setup, so I just work off a laptop, but now I have a large screen which makes looking at excel documents A LOT easier. I don't even have to use the controllers, because I can simply use the hand tracking. Now the hand tracking does have a bit off a downside(at least for me) - since my laptop is in front of me, the system Quest bar is also at the bottom, so depending how I place my laptop, I will sometimes accidentally trigger an app on the bottom, because my hands are at the bottom typing! The solution (for me) is to bring my laptop closer to me, so the system bar is above the keyboard. You also need a well lit room for the hand tracking. Can you watch videos on youtube through a browser? Yup! You sure can! Of course the problem is the sound is going to come from the PC and not the Quest, so you'll need to connect to PC via headset/bluetooth to go immersive. I'm currently writing this review while wearing the Quest 3 on a giant screen, while typing off my laptop. I cannot stress enough how great it is to finally have a giant screen to work off. I use the passthrough when I'm in this, so I can clearly see everything around me, including my own watch/phone. PSVR2 does have a passthrough viewing mode, but unlike the Quest 3, you still can't move freely around because you're wired, and it's hard to read your phone/watch.
Bigscreen Beta, is basically a meeting room/lounge/movie theater where you can rent movies (including 3D movies), and watch along with others. This is what I did with my PSVR, originally - just watch movies / 3D movies (I own a few) in the PSVR. The downside of the PSVR was you're wired to PS4/5 and it drifts after a while, and of course - it's heavy! The PSVR2 fixes that a little as it is not as heavy- but the Quest 3 is the lightest, and most comfortable to use.
The screen inside the Quest 3 appears to be much better than the PSVR2. I had to make a lot of adjustments to the PSVR2 when I first got it, and it still looks a bit blurry, but the Quest 3 immediately showed me very clear non-blurry texts and images.
Finally, Peacock VR, you can watch anything from the Peacock catalog (which I tried to watch Prince Of Darkness), but the sound...the sound is not good, you can hear everything outside (and I have an a/c and air purifier going on). I tried plugging in 2 different wired over the year headsets, but the sound is too low. That's a real problem for me, that means I can't fully enjoy movies unless I make everything quiet in the room - which is not going to happen.
The other big disappointment about this, is that it's from Meta, who even though I opted out of emails, have decided they need to bombard me with emails daily, including one that suggested I buy The Meta Quest 3 512GB. What? What? You know I already own one, that's how you got my info, and now you're telling me I should've bought a better one? STOP SPAMMING ME META!!
Pros:
Lightweight
Mixed Reality looks great
Do not need to use controllers for movies/productivity apps
Feels comfortable (with the elite strap, not the stock) to wear for long periods of time
The visuals inside are very clear to read
Lightweight
Mixed Reality looks great
Do not need to use controllers for movies/productivity apps
Feels comfortable (with the elite strap, not the stock) to wear for long periods of time
The visuals inside are very clear to read
Cons:
128GB is not a good size, the base size should be 256GB, and then a 512GB option
The stock strap should've never existed, Elite Strap should be stock
Requires light to use hand gestures, but also so it can see the room your in clearly
Sound is terrible for a noisy environment. I don't know why wired headsets are set so low, that the max is barely audible, which is bad for when you want to fully immerse yourself in a movie
Not enough streaming Apps - we need Max, Showtime, Hoopla, just bring all the apps!!! My entire movie digital library lives in AppleTV!
128GB is not a good size, the base size should be 256GB, and then a 512GB option
The stock strap should've never existed, Elite Strap should be stock
Requires light to use hand gestures, but also so it can see the room your in clearly
Sound is terrible for a noisy environment. I don't know why wired headsets are set so low, that the max is barely audible, which is bad for when you want to fully immerse yourself in a movie
Not enough streaming Apps - we need Max, Showtime, Hoopla, just bring all the apps!!! My entire movie digital library lives in AppleTV!
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Move beyond the desktop. Don’t just sit there—move. HP Envy Move 23.8-inch All-in-One PC is movable and rechargeable. So you can take your business, recipes and workouts from the desktop to the countertop to the tabletop and back again. Plus, with a big screen and an Intel processor, you’ll be transported too.
Posted by: MrPHD
I never thought I would love an All-In-One as much as this one - and all before turning it on. Note only is it INCREDIBLY thin, the keyboard has a large touchpad! I love touchpad! I cannot use a traditional mouse as it hurts my fingers, so I've only been using touchpad because it doesn't hurt to use them. Not only does the keyboard have a touchpad- but there is a pouch in the back of the computer for the keyboard storage!
There is some weight to the keyboard, but it feels okay for long sessions - what doesn't feel okay though - the touchpad coating seems to be a little more resistant than my other ones. I can glide my finger over my other touchpad, but on this one, it doesn't smoothly move, it drags with normal pressure. In other words, you have to use a much much lighter touch to smoothly move around, something I am not used to, or never had to do.
What a clever design! It has its own handle, and it's feet retract to stay slim. I did not understand the picture, it was trying to tell me that i just need to sit it on a table and the feet come out, but there i was, trying to figure out how to lock the feet in place for a few minutes, until I just put it down and voila! Monitor feet! It is so slim that it feels insane this has an entire computer system inside of it. Not only a full computer system, but also has a battery inside! You can really "move" it! I was originally worried about having a PC that I needed to place near my APC, but as I was using it, I noticed it had the full battery indicator on, and sure enough, plugging it kept the computer on.
Pros:
Windows 11 (home) - you shouldn't be on Windows 10 anyways!
24" inch sleek and touchscreen monitor
Internal Battery!
Wireless keyboard WITH large touchpad
Storage space for the keyboad/touchpad!
HDMI port for dual and input
Built in Webcam w/privacy slider
Handle on top to easily move it around
Windows 11 (home) - you shouldn't be on Windows 10 anyways!
24" inch sleek and touchscreen monitor
Internal Battery!
Wireless keyboard WITH large touchpad
Storage space for the keyboad/touchpad!
HDMI port for dual and input
Built in Webcam w/privacy slider
Handle on top to easily move it around
Cons:
i5 chipset (it's not terrible, it's fine)
8GB of RAM (If I were to use this for personal / gaming, that's too low)
Limited ports (1 USB, and 1 USB-C)
I'm having issues using the L, S, and Backspace - it's more noticeable if I have the keyboard right in front of the monitor, less so I'm further away.
Slim design does not allow for any angling of the monitor. It'll always be at a 90 angle.
i5 chipset (it's not terrible, it's fine)
8GB of RAM (If I were to use this for personal / gaming, that's too low)
Limited ports (1 USB, and 1 USB-C)
I'm having issues using the L, S, and Backspace - it's more noticeable if I have the keyboard right in front of the monitor, less so I'm further away.
Slim design does not allow for any angling of the monitor. It'll always be at a 90 angle.
Do I recommend this? Yes, this is not a power user's computer, but this is the perfect student/work(which is what I'm using it for) machine, or a machine where you do not have a lot of space.
Best HP All-In-One I've had - and I've had quite a few since early 2000s!
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Outdoor 4 is our fourth generation wire-free smart security camera that helps you protect your home inside and out right from your smartphone.
Posted by: MrPHD
First of all, the packaging is kind of annoying, trying to keep everything minimal is fine, but the first thing you see when you open the box, is the 3 "simple" instructions of downloading the 1) downloading Blink App 2) Select the device 3) repeat. What is all in the box? Why are there 2 batteries? What are all the other attachments? (the box lists what is included - Camera, AA batteries, mounting kit, synch module 2, usb cable, power adapter). Scanning the QR code will send you to the website where you can watch very simple non-speaking videos of what to do. I'm all for videos without anyone speaking, and this isn't a big problem for me - but then I think about people without technical knowledge, like your older parents. Would they be able to figure any of this out? No. Not at all, this setup, as simple as it is, is still too complicated for your non-technically inclined average consumer who can barely navigate a smart phone to understand what is really going on.
The mounting brackets was slightly confusing, because it's a simple snap on, without reading that it just snaps on, you wonder how it's going to actually attach, as it attaches to the part of the camera that has a giant screw. When you see a giant screw like that, you wonder if you have to take it out. Luckily, I read enough that it just snaps on, and it really did. Except the screw is what opens the back, to put in the batteries, which, i forgot to do before snapping the mount.
During the sync model wifi setup, it only saw the Wireless 2Ghz systems near me, not any 5Ghz, which is what I use. For people who only setup 5Ghz systems, this is where they fail. Remember that comment about your parents figuring this out - this is another point where they would be stuck.
Another important part to note - you need to have the camera back off to scan the QR code when you get to the point in the app. Therefore, you need to go in a specific order, which again, feels a little complicated for someone who thinks you can just set this up real quick, as the box suggests.
I got the camera to have an alternate angle on my patio, which I have squirrels visiting throughout the day. The default sensitivity settings (6 of 9), do not pick them up, even if they literally stand right in front of the camera! Setting it to sensitivity 9, picks them up, but there are 2 problems with. The first, when you increase the sensitivity, the app warns it will drain the battery quicker. Secondly, it still does not always pick up the squirrels, especially if only one comes up.
Anyways, I was a bit underwhelmed with the battery (although convenient, not having to wire it) and motion sensitivity.
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
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The HT-S2000 soundbar delivers high-quality audio and an upscaled cinematic surround sound experience for all your content. Built for the Sony ecosystem, this compact soundbar solution is compatible with Sony SA-SW3, SA-SW5 subwoofers and, SA-RS3S rear speakers and integrates fully with BRAVIA XR™ TVs.
Posted by: MrPHD
I’ve had 3 soundbars now, each one being a vast improvement over the previous. They’ve all been moderately priced soundbars (the room is not very large so no need for a high end soundbar), and now this Sony has made the soundbar I didn’t realize I needed this entire time.
This was the simplest soundbar setup of the 3 that I’ve had. You just need the 1 HDMI cable to plug into the eARC/ARC HDMI port, and to download the Sony Home app. That’s pretty much it! You don’t need to sign up for a Sony account, you don’t need to connect the soundbar to the internet (no Alexa/Siri), and you don’t even need to use the remote, since you can do everything within the Sony app itself.
My TV outputting sound so quickly on the Sony made me realize my previous soundbar, which would always take up to 30 seconds before it would turn sound on, was either failing or just not made well.
Once you’ve spent all of the 3 minutes physically connecting the soundbar and opening the app, you’re in business with the basic settings.
The first thing I did was turn on the Sound field, enabled DTS Virtual:X, and DSEE. I also enabled the Automatically Adjust Volume, to avoid loud sources when switching inputs.
I also enabled Auto Standby, which is excellent as I put in my earbuds when watching a movie on AppleTV, or my gaming headsets when on the PS5, either one stops sounds from soundbar, so there is no point in having it on. The downside of this (which is really just a user issue) – when the soundbar is turned off (either manually or after 20 minutes), the screen goes black for about 5 seconds. While on my headset/earbuds, I still hear the sound, that is never a problem, but the TV goes black so I don’t see what’s going on for a few seconds. This is particularly a problem when playing a game. I’m getting used to manually turning it off and getting the black screen immediately before getting it by surprised. Again, not really a problem with the equipment itself, but more of usage of it.
I’ve also enabled the IR-Repeater, it seems to make my TV remote work better because I can now just point to the soundbar instead of going out of my way to point it to the tv (I have furniture that can block IR on TV if I’m sitting in certain spots).
With all those settings enabled, watching movies and TV shows now are a world of difference with the 3.1 sound coming out on the soundfield. Dialogue actually sounds clearer than before, and there are certain TV shows where the dialogue is just much lower than the rest – Ted Lasso is one of the shows. Previously, I would have to raise the volume and that made everything loud, but now I can simply press the Voice Mode on the app (or remote) and it actually boosts dialogue without boosting everything else. This is so useful, but at the same time, since the dialogue already seems to be boosted without it, I don’t need to use the feature/adjust sound as much as I did before!
The Bluetooth function is also great, you can set it to Bluetooth via the app or the button, and switch between the two.
Pros:
Strictly a Soundbar, no internet required
Great App: no account required, can turn device on/off, can switch from TV to Bluetooth. All functions available in app
Dialogue is much clearer, plus Voice Mode
Good remote: all the buttons you need, and remote itself feels nice to touch
Strictly a Soundbar, no internet required
Great App: no account required, can turn device on/off, can switch from TV to Bluetooth. All functions available in app
Dialogue is much clearer, plus Voice Mode
Good remote: all the buttons you need, and remote itself feels nice to touch
Cons:
Turning off soundbar give you 5 seconds of black screen
Sound Field is direct, so you would have to adjust the soundbar to point to you if you’re not directly centered in front of it
Turning off soundbar give you 5 seconds of black screen
Sound Field is direct, so you would have to adjust the soundbar to point to you if you’re not directly centered in front of it
Not many cons, because this is a great soundbar. Feels premium for moderate price! Highly recommend.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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The best just got better with the new Nextbase 622GW 4K Dash Cam. With an abundance of new features and world’s firsts, the 622GW is the most accurate, powerful and highest image quality Dash Cam in the market today. Ultra-clear 4K recording at 30fps captures those all-important finer details, with recording at 1440p HD at 60fps or 1080p HD at 120fps for super slow motion available. An improved sensor ensures enhanced night vision on even the darkest roads. Image quality is at the forefront of the Dash cam revolution, with Image stabilization reducing vibrations from your vehicle and improving footage clarity. Another first for Nextbase is Extreme Weather Mode, to provide a clearer image in misty conditions using special defogging algorithms, crucial for winter and night-time driving. The 622GW is the world’s first Dash Cam to include what3words. This provides your exact location to a 3m square location without the need for a data connection, crucial for emergency services to precisely locate you. Coupled with Emergency SOS and Alexa Built-In, the 622GW shows its further ahead the field with technology advancements. Increased connectivity for transferring footage to your mobile phone is key with new built-in Bluetooth 5.0 and Hyper-Sync Wi-Fi 5GHz speeds are up to 10x faster. This ensures syncing times with the MyNextbase Connect app (IoS 12.1 or later and Android 5.1 and up). The 622GW is compatible with any Nextbase Rear View Module, to offer-all around protection, whilst crucially maintaining front 4K image quality, with 1080p full HD rear recordings. The 622GW features all the much loved Nextbase features including Intelligent Parking Mode, high accuracy 10x GPS readings, a 3” HD IPS touch screen and the fully patented Click&Go PRO mount design, for the ultimate Dash Cam user experience. Note- For this product a U3 class Nextbase microSD card is required (Not included). The ability to maintain a high WRITE speed consistently is what Nextbase SD cards are designed to do better than any other SD card. Any drop/fluctuation in WRITE speed within the SD card causes the Dash Cam footage to buffer, and in some cases will stop the recording entirely. Our Nextbase SD card controller and Firmware on the SD card achieves the requirements from our Dash Cam, where other SD cards cannot. Due to the continuous recording and overwriting of the card, the SD card needs to be a high-endurance card, otherwise the card may develop faults after a period of time; if a lower-capability card is used, certain features on the camera will not fully function due to being unable to re-write and record. Nextbase has over 3 million dash cams sold, 115 unique patents, custom designed processors and improved sensors which record fast moving objects in perfect picture clarity for day and night time driving. Auto adjusts contrast and brightness to further improve the footage details in the event of an accident. Save time, money, and ease with Nextbase Dash Cams.
Posted by: MrPHD
Hear me out, excellent camera for motorcycle rides!
I got rid of my car a while ago and now just use a motorcycle, I’ve been looking at different vendors to get a dashcam to record and track my rides, which is often me driving into areas I’ve never been before, and I forget exactly where I was when I saw interesting things.
I originally tested the dashcam on a bike usability by purchasing a cheap $60 dashcam, which has stuck to my windshield for over 2 years(!!). That made me comfortable knowing that a new mount/cam won’t fall off on the ride, and can now buy a more expensive dashcam with actual features.
The first thing I noticed when researching this particular dashcam, is that the file lengths are only 1, 2, and 3 minutes (vs my 15 minutes on my cheap dashcam). The UK support told me the reason lengths are so short is to quickly save files and not have gaps between files. For reference, there would always be a 2-3 second gap between my 15 minute files. Even though that does not sound like much – it is, especially if you want to take an image that occurred in those 2-3 seconds! It can be frustrating!
When the dashcam arrived, there is a rather large notice on the box “BE SURE TO USE A NextBase microSD card, Available separately” and the instructions also note the importance of using their card versus another other card, even if it’s a U3 rated card. I take issue with this – if it is important to use their own card, then they should *include* a card, don’t sell it separately! Especially since their branded cards are much more expensive than regular U3 cards. They say you *can* use any cards, but it will eventually fail…so again, this is very lousy way to force you to buy their card after you’ve spent a lot of money on the original dashcam.
Another lousy thing, they have a polarizing filter you can add, which for sure would help any ride, but did they include that? No, of course not! So now I’m reading the instructions and I have 2 items I should have, but don’t! That was very frustrating.
I highly recommend downloading the manual from their website, as the one included doesn’t really have enough info on the configuration/settings, THERE ARE A LOT!
After configuring all the settings (including turning Image Stabilization on and setting Impact Sensitivity to low), I mounted it camera to my bike, and took off for a ride towards and around Downtown Los Angeles.
On my way down there, I noticed that the camera went into Protect mode a few times – because it thought I was in an accident. I wound up having to turn off Impact Sensitivity, which I also did on my previous dashcam so that was expected – it’s a bike, it’s going to bounce a lot.
I did not bother using the NextBase IOS app, but I did use the PC app, and what an experience! As you can see from the picture, the player shows you the video, the speed, the location, how much the image stabilizer is working, and the file route segment in a google maps corner. In this example it only shows a short street because I have not combined any of the videos, which you can also do. This is extremely helpful, as now I can pinpoint where any cool murals I stumble into are exactly located!
Lastly – the image stabilization is fantastic – my videos are all very smooth with it on! All of my previous videos on the cheap dashcam were all very bumpy.
Pros:
Excellent Image Stabilization
Touch screen, including a button to protect the video (so it doesn’t get erased)
Strong Magnetic connection from dashcam to mount
USB cable plugs into the mount, instead of the camera, and the mount separates and attaches easily
GPS and MPH (or KMH), Date and Time stamps on the video (these are options that can be turned on or off, including adding your license place on the video)
Ability to merge files to a longer video
Excellent Image Stabilization
Touch screen, including a button to protect the video (so it doesn’t get erased)
Strong Magnetic connection from dashcam to mount
USB cable plugs into the mount, instead of the camera, and the mount separates and attaches easily
GPS and MPH (or KMH), Date and Time stamps on the video (these are options that can be turned on or off, including adding your license place on the video)
Ability to merge files to a longer video
Cons:
NextBase branded/formatted cards are required, but they do not include it
Polarizing filter recommended, also not included
NextBase Player takes a long time to load 37 HD files(for this ride) and it looks like the player gets stuck/frozen, but it’s just creating the thumbnails, so be patient.
2 hour ride = 28GB, I only have a 64GB card, so I’ll have to wait until there is a sale on their cards to buy a much bigger one, even though I have multiple 256GB U3 cards, which if I believe them, will all fail eventually.
NextBase branded/formatted cards are required, but they do not include it
Polarizing filter recommended, also not included
NextBase Player takes a long time to load 37 HD files(for this ride) and it looks like the player gets stuck/frozen, but it’s just creating the thumbnails, so be patient.
2 hour ride = 28GB, I only have a 64GB card, so I’ll have to wait until there is a sale on their cards to buy a much bigger one, even though I have multiple 256GB U3 cards, which if I believe them, will all fail eventually.
As you can see, there aren’t that many cons on this – the 2 cons are essentially lousy sales techniques, and loading a lot of video files is expected to be slow.
I *love* this dashcam – for my bike, I’m so glad I contacted UK support prior to ordering this, otherwise I would not have ordered it thinking that 3 minute video files are totally useless. I did not think to ask support about the importance of their branded cards, if I had, then I would have gone ahead and ordered their cards, instead of ordering mine (which I am not even going to bother testing).
I guess that is a reminder to always read online manuals / FAQs of any expensive products to make sure it will meet your expectations!
I would recommend this to a friend!
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The EOS R10 is perfect for content creators looking to take their creativity to the next level. Featuring a high-speed shooting 15 FPS mechanical shutter^,~ a 24.2 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor, and lightning-fast auto-focus, all in a sleek, lightweight design.
Customer Rating
5
Mirrorless Camera w/fully autofocus? Yes please!
on October 25, 2022
Posted by: MrPHD
Back in 2008 I bought my first "professional" camera while I happened to be in Japan - felt right to buy it when I was near the actual headquarters. I loved it, it took amazing pictures if the conditions were right, but when I would look the viewfinder, the picture would look perfect, and when I reviewed it later, it was not. This has always been a very frustrating normal thing I had to deal with when using that kind of a camera. However, the only way to get the most out of the camera was to take a photography class, which was very useful, but there is so much information and as time goes on, I have forgotten it all.
Now in 2022, the Canon EOS R10 is not only a much better camera, but mirrorless with amazing autofocus quality. I used my friend's daughter and dog to try out the Fully Automatic Shooting (Scene Intelligent Auto) mode. As you can see in the included pictures, the camera was able to focus on both human and very annoyed animal who would not stop moving. These kind of shots aren't available on my previous camera - in fact I would have to take at least 30 continuous shots to be able to pick out a few that looked great. Here I only took 4 shots, and each one is perfect.
Since this is a mirrorless camera, the viewfinder is digital (OLED screen), so you can see exactly what the shot is going to look like immediately. You can even use the little thumbstick, called the Multi-Controller button (an 8 directional stick) to set an area you always want in focus. This, in comparison to my other camera, is mind-blowing that it can detect multiple faces/animals and will show me it to me correct, in real time. The digital viewfinder was easy for me to see without my glasses, so that was is another plus, as I that is no longer the case w/mirrored viewfinder.
The camera's almost 3 inch LCD screen is touch screen, you can skip the Multi-Controller and just touch what you want the camera to focus on. You can also tilt the screen, in addition to pulling it out and reversing it so you could see the screen while facing the lens.
Video recording is also pretty good - like Scene Intelligent Auto mode, Auto exposure Movie Recording, is able to autofocus on fast moving subjects, including animals.
Basically, the Canon EOS R10 is a great camera to start getting into photography - that was the original intention of my first DSLR, but it was just too complicated to use - this camera will basically do it all for you! Sure, you can set it on manual and use it like a regular camera, but after using the fully auto mode - why would you??
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Soundcore by Anker Liberty 4, Noise Cancelling Earbuds, True Wireless Earbuds with ACAA 3.0, Dual Dynamic Drivers, Hi-Res Audio, Heart Rate Sensor, CloudComfort Eartips, Spatial Audio, 28H Playtime
Posted by: MrPHD
I've never really been a fan of wireless earbuds, they always seem to fall off on me, sound funny, or I have to raise the volume because the outside noise is too loud to hear them. The other issue is of course the earbuds falling off. The Apple wired earbuds were pretty much my favorite, only because I would use them in my helmet, as they're the only ones that would stay in. However, these premium wireless earbuds are great! The default ear tips worked best for me. The Small and Large would were not a good fit, but I’m glad they are included as obviously everyone has different sized ears.
I started simply with just using the earbuds and connecting to my iPhone, you could tell that the noise cancellation was automatically on, but that's about it. After using it for a few days on calls and just listening to music, I decided I wanted to use the app and see what other features I'm missing out on.
What features was I missing? the ability to use "transparency mode" - which allows you to eliminate noises but focus on voice, or a "fully transparent" mode which just brings in all outside noise - this would be useful for when walking on the street to be aware of your surroundings. The most important feature is "HearID ANC" which allows you to run an ear canal test customize the sound to your specific ear, this is highly recommended.
What features was I missing? the ability to use "transparency mode" - which allows you to eliminate noises but focus on voice, or a "fully transparent" mode which just brings in all outside noise - this would be useful for when walking on the street to be aware of your surroundings. The most important feature is "HearID ANC" which allows you to run an ear canal test customize the sound to your specific ear, this is highly recommended.
The other reason I needed to app - after I had successfully connected the earbuds to 2 devices (Nintendo Switch & iPhone), I could no longer connect to new devices - which I wanted to connect to my AppleTV. In the settings within the app, there is a "Dual connections" area in which is where you can start connecting more than 2 devices. Once I went into there, I had the option to connect a new device.
On the AppleTV, when watching anything I switch the spatial audio mode to Movie Mode, because it brings the vocals closer to you, whereas the "music mode" it sounds more like you're in a concert, which works better for music. Bonus: if you use head tracking, the audio will come out of the left/right earbud depending on where you are looking, which is fantastic.
The only thing I don't like, which is across most headsets, is the echo/concert hall effect when you're on a call, because of the mic. I can hear myself breathing and it feels very uncomfortable, this usually happens when using a headset that has a boom mic close to my mouth. Again, this is normal, and other people are used to it, it is not normal for me but it's acceptable.
The only thing I don't like, which is across most headsets, is the echo/concert hall effect when you're on a call, because of the mic. I can hear myself breathing and it feels very uncomfortable, this usually happens when using a headset that has a boom mic close to my mouth. Again, this is normal, and other people are used to it, it is not normal for me but it's acceptable.
There is also a wellness portion in the app as the earbuds can also measure your heart rate, and can connect to Apple Health, but I did not get into it and I'm not interested in it as I already have an Apple Watch that does the same.
Pros:
HearID ANC /Spatial audio Head tracking
Good battery life
Can be connected to 2 devices at the same time
Power levels shown in the app
Fit Tests to properly relay sound to your specific ears
HearID ANC /Spatial audio Head tracking
Good battery life
Can be connected to 2 devices at the same time
Power levels shown in the app
Fit Tests to properly relay sound to your specific ears
Cons:
Pricey, but premium sound
Pinching controls for each earbud seems difficult (however, you can customize and change sensitivity of pinches, just not interested)
Requires app/account if you've already connected 2 different devices
Most features require the app.
Pricey, but premium sound
Pinching controls for each earbud seems difficult (however, you can customize and change sensitivity of pinches, just not interested)
Requires app/account if you've already connected 2 different devices
Most features require the app.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+3points
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The Venom 2 by Hyperice is the most advanced heat and massage wrap on the market. Designed with HyperHeat technology for consistent, even heating, the Venom2 heats 6x faster than a standard heating pad providing instant,soothing relief to sore muscles.
Posted by: MrPHD
You know how when you get older your body just starts to ache? If you're saying no, don’t worry you'll get there! I've had back issues for a while and when I wake up or sit down for long periods of time (you know, like working at a desk), getting up can be a bit uncomfortable because of back pain. Without taking pills for the pain, the Venom 2 Back can quickly heat / massage your back and ease the discomfort. When I say quickly, I am not exaggerating - this thing heats up within a few seconds. It's so fast and soothing, that I can just wrap this around my back, turn on the heat at level 3 (max) and vibration at max, and I normally walk around with it for until it auto-shuts off after 15 minutes.
Is this the solution for bad backs? No, of course not, but it does help lower the pain and can aid in recovery.
Is this the solution for bad backs? No, of course not, but it does help lower the pain and can aid in recovery.
My only issue so far is that it's meant to be worn over clothes - which is entirely reasonable - but in the summer/heat wave, it's hard to turn on the heat function because you're already hot - but the vibrations still help.
There is an app that you can also use to connect w/the device, I had originally decided to skip it, but saw that it could help remind you of exercising, so I decided to create an account and log in. Upon connecting to the device, it immediately wanted to start a firmware update. Unfortunately, the instructions on screen on your phone are incorrect! Right before you start the update, it tells you to plug in both the device and your phone, and to not turn off either of them. So I plugged in the power for the Venon, and pressed start...and then nothing. As it turns out, when you plug in the power to the Venom 2, which immediately turns off the device! After waiting about 20 minutes (to not risk interrupting the update as I had no idea where it was at this point) I closed everything and tried it again - but this time without plugging in the device. The firmware immediately started and only took a few minutes. That is a bit frustrating and scary (because turning something off during a firmware update can brick the device!), but as it turned out plugging in the device before pressing update did nothing harmful. However, this was worth it.
The app itself acts like a remote control, and you can change the default 15 minute timer to whatever you want, and shows you the battery level of the device. I tend to not use the apps and just use devices as is because I would rather not give up my personal information to use the app. In this particular case though, getting to increase the default 15 minutes to 30 is worth going through creating an account.
The app itself acts like a remote control, and you can change the default 15 minute timer to whatever you want, and shows you the battery level of the device. I tend to not use the apps and just use devices as is because I would rather not give up my personal information to use the app. In this particular case though, getting to increase the default 15 minutes to 30 is worth going through creating an account.
Pros:
Heats up very quickly
Large velco/area covers the right spots for my pain
App allows you to change the vibration type and time, which you cannot do on the device itself.
Cons:
Requires app to make changes
Firmware instructions on screen are wrong for firmware update
Not exactly inexpensive
Heats up very quickly
Large velco/area covers the right spots for my pain
App allows you to change the vibration type and time, which you cannot do on the device itself.
Cons:
Requires app to make changes
Firmware instructions on screen are wrong for firmware update
Not exactly inexpensive
I would recommend this to a friend!
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MGC Switchplate Wireless Controller for Switch and Windows PC. Featuring a compact design and 2 swappable magnetic faceplates in white and black, the Switchplate perfectly enhances the aesthetic and play of the Switch OLED, Switch and Switch Lite consoles. In addition to clean style, the Switchplate is packed with all the features you expect from a premium wireless controller:
Posted by: MrPHD
I've been struggling to find a reason to keep playing anything on my Switch - I bought it a few months ago and used it for a week, and then stopped for a couple of months. The first problem is the joy-con buttons are terribly tiny and my thumb presses 2 at a time. Then I bought a controller with bigger buttons, but it only worked as a full controller if it was wired into the dock console - which means the Switch sat alone again. That is, until I got the MGC Switchplate! Since it is wireless, I can simply use the kickstand on the Switch and have it at an appropriate viewing level/height, I can use it as a full controller that doesn't require being attached!
As you can see in the picture, the controller is smaller than your standard Xbox controller, but with buttons bigger than the joy-cons. Having the bigger button helps me not accidentally press 2 buttons at a time. It's also lighter than an Xbox controller as well.
The only downside I had was getting it to pair with my Switch. Switch would not see it while on or off the console dock. I wound up plugging it in with the included USB-C to USB cable. Once the Switch saw it, I was able to take it off the dock and still use it wirelessly. This was not included in the instructions, which should have been.
As you can see in the picture, the controller is smaller than your standard Xbox controller, but with buttons bigger than the joy-cons. Having the bigger button helps me not accidentally press 2 buttons at a time. It's also lighter than an Xbox controller as well.
The only downside I had was getting it to pair with my Switch. Switch would not see it while on or off the console dock. I wound up plugging it in with the included USB-C to USB cable. Once the Switch saw it, I was able to take it off the dock and still use it wirelessly. This was not included in the instructions, which should have been.
Pros:
4 light panel shows both battery charging and controller number when connected to Switch
Turbo and back custom programmable buttons
Bigger XYBA buttons (in comparison to the Switch joy-cons
Includes long USB-C cable
Lightweight
Can be used on PC
4 light panel shows both battery charging and controller number when connected to Switch
Turbo and back custom programmable buttons
Bigger XYBA buttons (in comparison to the Switch joy-cons
Includes long USB-C cable
Lightweight
Can be used on PC
Cons:
Trouble with initial pairing of controller wirelessly
Could've included a USB to USB-C adapter to use on PCs
Trouble with initial pairing of controller wirelessly
Could've included a USB to USB-C adapter to use on PCs
I would recommend this to a friend!
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The Shark Air Purifier MAX 3-in-1 uses Pure Air MicroForce to deliver fast, powerful, and quiet purification with added purified heat and purified fan modes. Clean Sense IQ senses air quality & auto-adjusts to improve and report results in real time. A HEPA filter captures 99.98% of airborne particles like allergens*, dust, and dander (based on IEST-RP-CC007.3, 0.1-0.2 microns). Cleans up to 1000 square feet. *“Allergens” refers to non-living matter.
Posted by: MrPHD
I've enjoyed and need an air purifier to run so I can get a good night’s sleep, but my current one is getting a little old and didn't feel like it covered enough of the room where it was. I thought the Shark 3-in-1 would do the trick, even though I felt like maybe it was overkill. It also reminds me of Bender from Futurerama and gets mad at me with the air is purity is under 70%, because it turns red!
The large display is one of the best things, my other air purifier also had colors to tell you what the range the air quality is in, but seeing the specific percentage helps a lot and allows me to keep track if I’ve kept the window open for too long. In addition air purity, it also shows the filter life, time to purify the air, but also 3 different particle trackers. That is a lot info, I do not particularly care to go into the particle trackers, but the other info modes are useful for the room.
The Air purifier is just 1 of the 3 things! It also has a purified fan mode, which I absolutely love. Since the device is rather tall (in comparison to previous ones), the vent where the air comes out is at the correct level to aim towards my bed when I sleep. After I started using it, I would notice the air quality go down, and realized it was because i had a little swamp cooler type machine that I would turn on at night, and that was apparently blowing not clean air, as it needed a cleaning! Had it not been for the Shark, I would still be using it not realizing that is what is waking me up at night!
The 3rd thing is the heater, which is very simple to turn on with the press of the button (assuming the physical switch is on fan/air, more about that in a bit). The heater heats up the room rather quickly, it is just as good or better than my dedicated heater, which I no longer need. That's what I was aiming for, 1 device instead of the 3 individual ones I had - 1 device to cover all seasons.
Pros:
Allows you to get rid of 3 individual devices with 1
Large and very informative screen
Color-coded lights - which can be dimmed
Removable remote control
Fan portion on top, at an appropriate heigh
Allows you to get rid of 3 individual devices with 1
Large and very informative screen
Color-coded lights - which can be dimmed
Removable remote control
Fan portion on top, at an appropriate heigh
Cons:
Seems expensive, but 3 different devices would cost a lot more
Filter replacement seems high (in a week the filter life went from 100% to 97%).
Makes a very loud thump when you flip the switch from full air purifier to heat/fan mode, it's very awkward and feels like you've done something wrong, but it's fine
Seems expensive, but 3 different devices would cost a lot more
Filter replacement seems high (in a week the filter life went from 100% to 97%).
Makes a very loud thump when you flip the switch from full air purifier to heat/fan mode, it's very awkward and feels like you've done something wrong, but it's fine
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Boost computer performance with this Samsung EVO series solid-state drive. Its maximum read and write speeds of 550MB/s and 520MB/s let you speed through data transfers, and the 250GB of storage space leaves room for plenty of files. This Samsung EVO series solid-state drive is compatible with a number of SATA configurations for flexible use.
Would this work with my ASUS G75J1 laptop?
Yes, but if you have the Hybrid drive that is an option with that line of Laptops, you might want to reconsider.
Hybrids will give you more hard drive capacity but also give you that boot on startup. This SSD will give you all around speed, but then you only have 250GB vs 1TB hybrid.
Hybrids will give you more hard drive capacity but also give you that boot on startup. This SSD will give you all around speed, but then you only have 250GB vs 1TB hybrid.
5 years, 11 months ago
by
MrPHD
Boost computer performance with this Samsung EVO series solid-state drive. Its maximum read and write speeds of 550MB/s and 520MB/s let you speed through data transfers, and the 250GB of storage space leaves room for plenty of files. This Samsung EVO series solid-state drive is compatible with a number of SATA configurations for flexible use.
NETGEAR AC1200 Mesh WiFi Range Extender boosts your existing WiFi by increasing your range and speed. It compatible with any standard WiFi router to deliver AC1200 dual band WiFi with up to 1200 Mbps. Includes Mesh features Smart Roaming and one WiFi name. Easily connect all your smart home devices to one network, no new WiFi names and passwords needed. Move from room-to-room while streaming video on your mobile device without any interruptions. A Gigabit Ethernet port provides WiFi connectivity to a wired device like Blu-ray players, game consoles, smart TVs or streaming players over your existing WiFi network. Just plug it into any outlet and experience the difference.
I have ATT U verse "Arris - NGV589" internet. Due to size of home service is sketchy will this work to correct that problem?
NETGEAR AC1200 Mesh WiFi Range Extender boosts your existing WiFi by increasing your range and speed. It compatible with any standard WiFi router to deliver AC1200 dual band WiFi with up to 1200 Mbps. Includes Mesh features Smart Roaming and one WiFi name. Easily connect all your smart home devices to one network, no new WiFi names and passwords needed. Move from room-to-room while streaming video on your mobile device without any interruptions. A Gigabit Ethernet port provides WiFi connectivity to a wired device like Blu-ray players, game consoles, smart TVs or streaming players over your existing WiFi network. Just plug it into any outlet and experience the difference.
Will this work with a Verizon Ellipsis Mobile Hotspot, Model MHS800L?
This will work with *any* wifi, regardless of the source.
6 years, 5 months ago
by
MrPHD
NETGEAR AC1200 Mesh WiFi Range Extender boosts your existing WiFi by increasing your range and speed. It compatible with any standard WiFi router to deliver AC1200 dual band WiFi with up to 1200 Mbps. Includes Mesh features Smart Roaming and one WiFi name. Easily connect all your smart home devices to one network, no new WiFi names and passwords needed. Move from room-to-room while streaming video on your mobile device without any interruptions. A Gigabit Ethernet port provides WiFi connectivity to a wired device like Blu-ray players, game consoles, smart TVs or streaming players over your existing WiFi network. Just plug it into any outlet and experience the difference.
Will the Netgear AC1200 work with my Netgear N300 Wireless ADSL2+ Modem Router. I want to stream etc, my phone/internet serviceis is century link..
Enjoy crisp, clear sound at every turn with the help of this Vizio 29-inch sound bar. It boasts a sophisticated design that will accentuate your high-definition television, and it's built to work with televisions of all sizes. Experience true Dolby Digital and DTS surround sound with this Vizio 29-inch sound bar.
How can I use my sound bar when using my blu ray player? Thanks
Do you mean how do you play a movie through the soundbar or how do you use the soundbar (to say play music) while the BR is showing something else?
If it's a movie through the soundbar - you plug in the BR player into the soundbar, and the soundbar into the TV.
If you want to watch something while listening to something else on the soundbar, you just change the input on the soundbar.
If it's a movie through the soundbar - you plug in the BR player into the soundbar, and the soundbar into the TV.
If you want to watch something while listening to something else on the soundbar, you just change the input on the soundbar.
7 years, 2 months ago
by
MrPHD
Fitbit Charge HR Wireless Heart Rate + Activity Wristband: This heart rate and activity tracking wristband is built to capture your movements and health patterns all day long. Easily monitor your heart rate so you can maximize your workouts, learn about your sleep quality and monitor progress on your goals.
Does the watch display seconds or just hour and minutes?
Hours and minutes only.
8 years, 6 months ago
by
MrPHD
Pasadena
Fitbit Charge HR Wireless Heart Rate + Activity Wristband: This heart rate and activity tracking wristband is built to capture your movements and health patterns all day long. Easily monitor your heart rate so you can maximize your workouts, learn about your sleep quality and monitor progress on your goals.
I'm having a hard time deciding which size band I should get. Should band fit snug or loose?
I don't know whether it should fit snug or loose in order for the heart rate to be accurate. I can't find one in any store to try on so I don't know which size to order
Google "Fitbit Sizing Tool' and the first result is a PDF you can print out and match your wrist on to see what size it is.
The Fitbit should be sort of snug - but your wrist expands and contracts throughout the day, so you have to adjust your bad accordingly - otherwise it will cause skin irritations! It took me a while to realize it was because I had it too snug and didn't realize it was getting tighter when my wrist expanded.
The Fitbit should be sort of snug - but your wrist expands and contracts throughout the day, so you have to adjust your bad accordingly - otherwise it will cause skin irritations! It took me a while to realize it was because I had it too snug and didn't realize it was getting tighter when my wrist expanded.
8 years, 6 months ago
by
MrPHD
Pasadena
This LifeProof dock adapter features a 30-pin, male-to-female dock connector, so you can easily connect your Apple® iPhone® 4 or 4S in a LifeProof case to most cables or docks. The compact design allows easy portability.
does it just charge it
I want to know if you have to hook it to an iHome or Apple Dock. can you just stick it in? Does it need an outlet? does it work in the car?????
This is simply an adapter specifically designed for LifeProof cases. It does not charge, it simply fits into the connection case - allowing you to connect cables/docks that wouldn't normally fit with the LifeProof case on.
10 years ago
by
MrPHD
Los Angeles, CA
Upgrade Internal Hard Drive
I have a hp zd8000 laptop running windows xp. I am looking to upgrade to windows 7 but will need to upgrade my internal hard drive space. My laptop currently has a Seagate 4200rpm 60GB ATA 8MB 2.5" internal hard drive. Can this hard drive be upgraded? And if so, how big can I go?
Thank you!
Thank you!
You need to go to HP's website and see what it supports. A quick google search shows websites selling 160GB drives for this particular computer.
However, it's a non-SATA drive(really slow), by the time you factor in the costs of the hard drive (which are not cheap as you have to get older one) and the cost of windows 7, you would probably spend as much upgrading this laptop for the same price of a new laptop, with Windows 7/8 included. Not to mention, Windows 7 will be really slow on this, if it is even possible to take Windows 7 (drivers).
However, it's a non-SATA drive(really slow), by the time you factor in the costs of the hard drive (which are not cheap as you have to get older one) and the cost of windows 7, you would probably spend as much upgrading this laptop for the same price of a new laptop, with Windows 7/8 included. Not to mention, Windows 7 will be really slow on this, if it is even possible to take Windows 7 (drivers).
10 years, 1 month ago
by
MrPHD
Los Angeles, CA