insomniak1's stats
- Review count160
- Helpfulness votes526
- First reviewJuly 29, 2015
- Last reviewJune 24, 2024
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- Average rating4.7
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- Answer count42
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- First answerAugust 9, 2016
- Last answerJanuary 7, 2022
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The HP DeskJet 2734e has the essential features you need to print basic color documents like recipes and forms. Print, copy and scan with ease, print from your phone and get easy setup. Includes the optional HP+ Smart Printing System that keeps itself up to date and ready to print from virtually anywhere at any time—at no additional cost.
Customer Rating
5
All the features I need at a good value.
on October 22, 2022
Posted by: insomniak1
Coming from the smaller 3755, I though the 2734e was huge. It barely fit on top of the stand. However, once it was all set, it is not that big at all. Aesthetically, I appreciate the matte white finish as it attracts fewer smudges. While made almost entirely out of plastic and surprisingly light, it seems well built. The lid, trays, and feeder backrest are sturdy and do not wabble. It is easy to add paper to the feeder. Thankfully, the cartridges are easy to install and replace, which can be annoying in other printers.
The installation process takes some care, effort, and time. However, this is the new norm for most online printers, so no surprise there. First, you’d need to install an app on your PC or mobile device, create an account if you don’t have one, and carefully follow the installation instructions. If anything goes wrong, one must start the whole process again. Once the process is completed and the printer is set in the network, it’s smooth sailing from there.
Although it can be a bit bothersome to install, the app is extremely useful. There, you can check the printer’s status, ink levels, get support, update firmware, and manage your account. You can print docs, scans, pictures, and screens remotely, from your mobile device -very useful. The printer can have its own “email” address should the app not be available.
Being part of the HP Ink program for a few years, I can attest that I am very satisfied with it. There are levels of service and price depending on how much is being printed measured in sheets. I have been comfortable with 50 pages a month. HP will monitor your ink levels if the printer is online, and when the levels drop low, HP will send you cartridge replacements. I have never run out of ink. The used cartridges are mailed back with provided shipping packaging.
One of the biggest upgrades from my previous model, is the ability to scan docs. I didn’t know I needed this feature as much as I thought. It’s quite fun to scan pictures for cards or docs.
In the end I am very satisfied with this printer. It is certainly an upgrade for me. For the asking price, it is very good value in my opinion.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Dominate in style with the powerful 1TB WD_BLACK P40 Game Drive SSD. The downloadable WD_BLACK dashboard gives you full control over the LED light display for a personalized experience every time you play (Windows® only). This high-performance SSD storage features blazing speeds in a compact and shock-resistant design, making it easy to take with you anywhere.
Customer Rating
5
Great option for carrying your gaming library.
on October 21, 2022
Posted by: insomniak1
I kind of like the industrial design of this SSD. The case is made of plastic and quite light in the hand but seems rugged enough for constant handling. The included USB-C to USB-C cable is thick, somewhat stiff, and sticks out quite far from the port. I don’t like to keep the cable plugged in when carrying it, so I do wish there was a silicone plug or cap to protect the USB-C port. Fortunately, I had an old USB-C cap around I could use.
Once plugged in, the RGB lighting came on nice and bright, making this an “official” gaming device. By the way, just in case you do not have a USB-C port available, WD included a convenient USB-C to USB-A adapter.
In speed tests, using a common PC with a traditional Thunderbolt 4, I maxed at 912 Read/924 Write. This, of course, does not come close to the claimed 2GB speed. When plugged to a 3.2 USB-A, this SSD performed rather well at 468R/465W. However, one must keep in mind that speeds vary depending on the type of port you have (you need a USB-C 2x2 superspeed port for max speed).
In real world applications, I downloaded and transferred several games: from simple 1-2GB, to 80GB plus AAA games. The transfer speeds were very good using USB-C. All games were fully playable and loaded fairly fast, which means the random read/write speeds are great. I also worked on some video rendering, and it did OK (I will always recommend using NVMe internal SS for such applications).
The WD Black keeps cool when idle at about 34c. The SSD got a bit warm at around 55c during certain games, especially ones that require real-time graphics loading, but I was never alarmed. However, when rendering, it did get up to the 70’s. Again, I would not recommend it for video editing.
There is a very useful dashboard app which is included in the SSD and is highly recommended to install. There, you can see all the SSD information such as space, temperature, health, and life expectancy. You can also do some performance tests, update the firmware, and even change the RGB lights (which by the way, is compatible with many 3rd party RGB software). As a bonus, you can check the status for all installed drives as well.
You can use this SSD as a supplementary drive on your gaming console. Unfortunately, because of the port limitations in current-gen consoles, you can only play legacy games directly from it, or use as storage and then transfer to the internal SSD when needed for newer games.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Stand out amongst a sea of streamers with clarity that cuts through the noise. Be heard with the Razer Seiren V2 X—a USB microphone perfect for any streaming setup, packed with all the tech required to make your voice truly come to life.
Customer Rating
5
Compact, solid, easy to set up, great value.
on October 13, 2022
Posted by: insomniak1
Don’t let the smallish compact design deceive you; this microphone packs a punch. Although made mostly out of plastic, it is extremely well built and sturdy. It is plug-and-play so there is no real need to mess with drivers or software. You can immediate start using it. Having said that, I highly recommend downloading the Ryzen Synapse software. The fabric braided cable is well made, strong, and long enough. My only complaint about it is that the input to the mic is proprietary, and I worry that if anything happens to it, you can’t just use any other USB-C cable. To compliment the design, there is a 3.5mm input for headphone monitoring. There is a simple gain knob and a mute button in front.
Out of the box, I was pleased with the sound pickup and reproduction. There is good bass, and the mids/highs add clarity. Featuring a super cardioid pattern, the best distance for me was around 12-18 inches with the mic in front of me and pointed at my mouth. The gain was about 70% in software, and I adjusted the mic’s gain with the knob. There is minimal ambient sound pick up, but keyboard’s strokes can be clearly heard. There is supposed to be a built-in shock absorber, but in my testing, it really did not do much for suppressing bumps and knocks, but I didn’t really mind. There is little popping and hissing, which is great if you like to talk right into the mic (as with a boom arm).
The Razer Synapse App adds a lot of nice features such as output/input on mixing, playback, headphones monitoring, and the microphone itself. The best feature is the analog gain limiter, which regulates clipping and over-peaking keeping my voice nice and level when screaming “nooo!” after losing a match.
In the end, I am really enjoying this mic. It is compact and sturdy, goes well on the stand or boom arm, is easy to set up and use, and works better than expected. At the current price, I can easily recommend it -especially if you have other Razer peripherals.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Play your way with G735 Wireless Gaming Headset from The Aurora Collection from Logitech G. Logitech Gaming Headset intentionally designed to maximize comfort for all players inclusive of smaller headsizes. Play, stream, or listen comfortably all-day, this computer headset features an adjustable headband, breathable materials, and cushy, rotatable cups. This headset is even designed with glasses and small earrings in mind, so no more pinched ears. Long-lasting, this gaming wireless headset allows you to take your gaming to go (and bring the fun with you) with up to 16+ hrs of wireless playtime (at 50% volume with lighting on, 56 hrs at 50% volume with lighting off) and multi-platform connectivity.
Customer Rating
5
Premium stylish performance.
on September 1, 2022
Posted by: insomniak1
Aesthetically, the G735 is one cool-looking headset. I really enjoy the white cloud finish. It has this laid-back yet stylish aesthetic which is easy on the eyes. I also like that the logo is rather subtle. The RGB is beautifully and tastefully implemented.
The build quality is also impressive, which I would expect no less since this is a premium headset. There’s good stitching and the headband is flexible; the metal arm sliders adjust easily and stay in place. Although not a big deal, I would’ve like for some sort of click or line to tell how far the cans are adjusted for precision’s sake. The removable boom mic looks alright, but I found it to be too stiff. The only thing I’d worry about is staining or scuffing the beautiful finish.
Now these are comfortable. It does weight over 270 grams, but the earpads are so soft that they truly feel like pillows on the side of my head in my experience. I appreciate the pads’ softness as there is some good clamping force, which allows the headset to stay on. The headband is also very soft and helps alleviate any soreness on top. After a long 6-hour gaming session, the only real discomfort was that my ears did get hot and somewhat sweaty, and so I had to take a quick break.
When it comes to connectivity, this is where the headset truly shines in my view. Through the included 2.4Ghz Lightspeed receiver, the headset integrated itself seamlessly with my Logitech setup using the Logitech G Hub. There wasn’t any disconnects or audible distortions. Then I paired the headset with my phone. To my delight, I can listen to both devices simultaneously. It’s that easy. While there is a master volume rocker which works independently from each device’s volume. Then there’s also a volume adjuster for mixing sound of each device. I can receive a phone call mid-game and I don’t have to walk away, pause, or even lower the volume. Also, there’s the 3.5mm cord and jack, which extends the versatility of the headphones.
Speaking of calls, the boom mic works well enough on PC. It’s clear and loud. On Bluetooth, it does change to a tinnier format, but it is still acceptable. I heard no complaints during gaming or phone calls. There’s a button to mute with color flash and sound cue. Although Blue Voice mic options are available, I would not use it for podcasting or streaming -for that I’d go for a dedicated mic.
At about 10-15 hours (in my experience) of use at 50% volume or higher with RGB lights on, the battery life is what you’d expect, especially from a headset that uses both RF and Bluetooth connection. No complaints here. Again, you can use the 3.5mm jack (no cable included!) should the set runs out of juice.
But how do they sound you ask? Well, as a premium item, I am happy to say that the 40mm drivers met my expectations. Out of the box, and through the dongle, the sound is rather warm but dynamic. The bass is clearly boosted, but it maintains good definition without becoming bloated. There is plenty of sub-bass as well. The mids are slightly recessed, but are still present, while the treble is also elevated without being harsh or fatiguing. I found this sound signature quite pleasant. I can tell that the tuning is geared more towards adventure, RPG, musical, and casual gaming, as well as action movies. For FPS or competitive gaming, I like the bass to be less prominent. The good news is that the software allows adjusting the EQ to meet these demands. The surround sound implementation is good. It certainly makes most content and some adventure games much more enjoyable. In competitive circumstances, I always set it to stereo.
On Bluetooth, the sound is quite different. The bass is not as boomy, and the mids are brought forward a bit more. The highs are more extended, adding clarity and again; it just sounds more natural. I would not call the sound audiophile level, but there’s decent channel separation, imaging, and plenty of soundstage. I enjoyed any genre of music I threw at them. My only slight disappointment was the lack of any noise cancellation. However, the pads provide decent passive noise reduction anyways.
Yes, these are very pricey headphones, perhaps more due to the Aurora theme, but looking at all the features, build, comfort, and implementation of communication (volume mixing FTW!), I have no issue in recommending them.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Stay on track, on time, and in style with Galaxy Watch5¹. Ready to get a better understanding of your wellness? Galaxy Watch5 features body composition analysis², improved sensors that get an accurate read on your heart rate³ and Advanced Sleep Coaching¹ that helps you get your zzzs . Whether you’re getting your steps in, jogging at lunchtime or crushing yoga class on the weekend, strut your fashion sense with Watch bands and faces that match your awesome outfit. Stay powered up on the go throughout even your busiest day with an improved battery that gives you time to do it all. Worry less and do more and with a Sapphire Crystal Glass that’s more durable than before and a water resistant design that can take a splash⁴ or two. Go ahead, unleash the best you with Galaxy Watch5.
Customer Rating
5
A stylish and healthy way to tell time.
on August 30, 2022
Posted by: insomniak1
It’s been a while since I’ve worn a watch regularly, much less a digital one. So, it’s interesting to see if this watch would change that. Aesthetically, the watch is pleasing to my eyes. The overall round-face design falls somewhere in between a sleek and casual look, which fits any setting, while not necessarily looking like a digital watch. The 40mm face is bright and clear and has decent resolution. Plus, you can change the “face” on the fly. I’ve been wearing the watch almost non-stop for a few days and even during a camping weekend, and I am glad the silicone strap is soft and has not caused any discomfort or skin reactions. It does get a little hot under while working out, but that’s expected. I am excited about the strap options that will be available in the future.
The interface is good and easy to navigate once you get used to it. The bezels act as a rotary dial that flips through all the active “windows”. It can be a fit finicky, but once you get the speed dialing internalized, it’s rather easy. The touch pad is very responsive, even while selecting small areas or text.
Besides telling the time (in many cool ways), there’s the obvious connectivity between it and your phone, preferably one of the same brand. Basically, the most useful thing is getting all my notifications without taking my phone out. I can even listen to my voicemails, answer emails and texts, and even answer calls.
All these features are nothing new, so what makes it stand out? Well, the GW5 has expanded on the health monitoring and fitness management. You still have step counting, heartbeat monitoring, calorie burning, and distance travelled as expected. However, there are new and expanded features such as sleep tracking, which I found very detailed and telling, stress monitoring, workout algorithms depending on the activity, habit trends, and body composition that tells fat % and skeletal muscle (although I didn’t the need the watch to tell me how overweight I am!).
There are even more advanced features such as ECG reading, snoring notification, blood oxygen levels, and even checking temperature, which sadly is not active currently. Of course, to make full use of all these features, you must download all the apps and software, especially if you do not have a compatible phone.
The battery life is decent. In my testing I never came close to the 50-hour claim, but the watch would certainly last at least 30-35 hours with constant use and the brightness all the way up. This was brought down even further when testing all the monitors, GPS, microphone, and playback modes. The good news is that it charges rather fast, and it uses a wireless “stand”.
Ok, so I’ve been wearing it for a while, and yes, I think I am back to wearing watches. Look, it may be a bit pricey, but once you have one, it’s easy to wonder why you haven’t been using one already.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Hearing is believing. Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro pack a studio-worthy listening experience into our most comfortable design yet —wear them as long as you want. Stimulate your senses with enhanced 360 Audio that surrounds you in your favorite beats like never before. Feel every note like you’re there with Hi-Fi sound quality. Stay focused on the sounds you love with Intelligent Active Noise Cancellation that quiets even the loudest outside sounds. Work out worry-free with moisture resistance that stands up to rain. Pair your Buds2 Pro with the rest of your Galaxy for new ways to enjoy pro-quality sound wherever you happen to be. If it’s a podcast, a call or your favorite playlist, listen blissfully with Galaxy Buds2 Pro. Whether on a call or during face-to-face conversations, hear real-time translations through your Buds with Galaxy AI.¹
Customer Rating
5
Lots of features, great sound, and stylish.
on August 25, 2022
Posted by: insomniak1
I absolutely love the black matte finish look and feel of the Buds2 Pro. The finish does keep fingerprints and smudges to a minimum. It’s just sleek and subtle. I appreciate the smaller size of both the case and the buds as they are highly portable. The case keeps the buds securely inside magnetically, so I wouldn’t worry about them popping out if placed in a backpack or bag. The buds charge via USB-C and wirelessly which is nice.
The fit is interesting. At the beginning, the buds felt like they were loose, and were not creating a good seal. Also, I wonder if they would stay in during heavy movement. I worried about the sound since a good seal makes all the difference. However, once they were in, I was pleasantly surprised that they felt so light, almost forgettable, and the never even moved while doing heavy headshaking and even cartwheels. As far as the seal, choosing the right tips is all you need. I ended up with the large ones and that worked well for me. I wore them one day until the battery ran out (roughly 5 hours, which is average), and I never felt soreness or discomfort. It also helps that they are rated IPX7, so no amount of sweat or rain -even sink water will cause any problems. Plus, they hardly stick out, which is a plus for me.
The Buds2 Pro EZ-paired seamlessly with my phone. Of course, that is because it fits well into the Samsung ecosystem. I also paired them with my laptop with no issues. They maintained a strong connection at a good distance, and even through some corners.
The controls are very responsive, no matter how many taps. I never felt like they lagged, but I did accidentally activate them while adjusting. Not everything can be controlled through the earbuds, but you can customize them to suit your needs through the app (more on that later).
Now, the buds are jam-packed with features. I highly recommend downloading the Wear app if you have. We’re talking about voice detect, which is cool when you talk and the sound turns to ambient mode automatically, read communications aloud, self-hearing check on calls, multi-point switching, in-ear detection for play/pause, “Find my earbuds”, ANC/Ambient modes, a full EQ with presets, gaming mode (low latency), Voice assistant (sorry no other voice assistance, which is a bummer), 360 Audio with headtracking, a nifty earbud fit test (for good seal), and an interesting neck stretch reminder. It certainly feels like a Pro device.
The noise cancellation (ANC) is not the best, but good enough. It blocked low-frequency sounds like traffic, airplanes passing by, crowd noise, and a loud vent at home. I also tried different noises through my speakers such as airplane cabin and engine noise with mixed results. I could hear mid and higher frequencies such as keyboard strokes, car horns, higher pitched voices, and a lawnmower rather clearly. However, the ambient mode is superb. It did feel as I didn’t have the buds on as the sound is almost natural and I can distinguish all sounds -even nature’s.
The sound quality is what you’d expect from premium earbuds. At the stock tuning, the bass is impactful, punchy, with plenty of sub-bass. It may not satisfy bass-heads, but I prefer precision. The mids are well represented and defined, making vocals, chorus, and rhythm instruments come out clearly. The treble adds even more clarity without being shrill or fatiguing. The soundstage is impressive for earbuds, and imaging and channel separation are distinct. I felt the is sound slightly warm, but natural and very pleasant no matter what I listened to.
The star of the show is the ability to listen to 24bit audio. Listening to Ultra HD and lossless files, I was rather impressed. The clarity, soundstage, imaging, and frequency representation almost makes feel like wired HiFi buds -almost. I spent a whole evening listening to my favorite tracks, movies, and some gaming with a smile on my face. Ok, so they’re not exactly at audiophile level, but close enough. The one caveat is that you can only get Hi-Res sound through proprietary Samsung codecs, which means you need a compatible device to enjoy.
The other main feature is the spatial 360 sound and headtracking. Unfortunately, this is the one thing that I was less impressed with. The 360 sound provides an interesting experience. It works best with certain video content, but not as much for music as but I found that it degraded the sound considerably. Some sounds sounded muted and other overly forward. The headtracking feature feels more like a gimmick. It does not feel as natural and the switching between left and right was not as smooth as other buds I’ve tried. Since I really never use these features, even on other sets that do it better, this is not a deal-breaker for me.
Yes, they are quite pricey. However, they fall right in with other premium or “pro” offerings from other brands. if you live in the ecosystem, can take advantage of the ton of features, and find the form factor and design language to your liking, I’m sure you will be pleasantly satisfied.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Hear them first. With 360 Spatial Sound for Gaming and our proven hardware technology, you can detect where your opponents are and how far away. Even players hiding in shadows or behind walls and obstacles, can’t stay hidden for long.
Customer Rating
4
Cool design, decent sound, great build quality.
on August 15, 2022
Posted by: insomniak1
Personally, I am digging the thematic black and white aesthetics of the H3s. It makes me want to put back the original plates of my PS5 (I have the black covers now). The build quality is not too shabby either. It seems like it can take a hit or two, although I’d worry about scuffing them. The headband is quite flexible, the arms have a nice tactile slider, and the swivels have decent movement and do not creak at all. The cloth-covered earpads are removable. I was bit disappointed by the short thin cable, and I wish it was removeable or at least be the same width as the USB-A dongle. The volume rocker is in a good place. The mic is not as flexible as I’d like, but it’s in a good spot. So far so good.
Now the H3 are quite comfortable. I wore them for almost 4 hours at a time and I had very little discomfort. I would’ve liked for the headband padding to cover the entire top and not just the upper part, but it worked alright. The super-silky earpads rest softly on and around my ears and there is very little clamping. Unfortunately, the mixture of light clamping and soft earpads make it difficult for the headset to stay firmly in place, and they kept shifting and a couple of times just fell off my head. This may affect only me but it’s something that I should mention.
Out of the box, and on PC’s 3.5mm, the sound quality coming from the 40mm drivers (10-20kHz) is a bit underwhelming. Yes, audio is highly subjective, but I found a lack of deep bass and were a bit too bright for my taste. However, whatever bass is there is rather clean. The mids are pushed forward and the treble falls slightly short of being harsh. Having said that, the soundstage is quite sparse without 3D tuning. Channel separation and imaging is startling. Being more on the flat side, I actually found them practical for FPS games as the sound was quite clear. However, for movies, music, and adventure games, they were kind of lacking. Using the USB-A dongle, the sound was better. On the PS5, the sound was even better with improved bass overall.
The INZONE software makes things significantly better. There, I was able to instantly improve the audio profile as there is a full-fledged EQ. You can also activate the Sony 360 Spatial Audio. After signing up, downloading a phone app, and taking pictures of my ears, I finally got it done. The annoyance turned into satisfaction once I experienced the 3D audio. In the past, I have been underwhelmed by simulated surround sound, but I think Sony has done a very good job this time.
The microphone quality is average at best. While it does the job and there are no hiccups or distortions, my voice needed a bit more body. Although there are options on the software, I would not use them for podcasting or streaming, but they are more than capable for gaming. I do like the lift-to-mute feature of the boom mic.
I must also point out that having a 3.5mm audio makes them very versatile as I tried them with all devices that have a 3.5mm jack with no issues at all.
In the end, being a Sony headset, I had high expectations. At the current price, they are average. The sound is good -not great, but customizable. The 360 Audio is actually good. Comfort is nice although a bit shifty. I will say that the design and build quality are top-notch. They are certainly worth a try if you’re looking for a Sony-themed budget friendly headset. You just might like them.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Suit up, strap in – and let Helios pave the way. Equipped with superior cooling technology and a trove of performance like NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 laptop graphics and the latest 12th Gen Intel Core i7 processor – this gaming laptop will be your guide to gaming bliss. With the 165Hz Full HD IPS panel, NVIDIA G-SYNC technology and 3ms Overdrive response time you can say farewell to blur and hello clear, crisp, high-octane gameplay. IEM Certified PC. Game like the Pros with an IEM Certified PC from Best Buy. Each IEM Certified PC comes packed with the same high-end Intel® technology your favorite athletes and teams use on the main stage during Intel® Extreme Masters tournaments.
Customer Rating
5
Great performance, classy design, and value.
on August 11, 2022
Posted by: insomniak1
Immediately after removing the protective cloth cover, I noticed how refined and sleek the new design is. The black brushed aluminum finish, along with the matte black accent make this gaming laptop something I would not hesitate to bring into a business meeting. I did notice some fingerprints right away though, so keep a soft cloth handy. The only thing that may give it away as a gaming laptop, is the thick vents in the back, which remind me of a high-end sports vehicle, and extend a bit further than I’d like.
The laptop feels beefy at 5.7lbs, but can still be carried around easily when closed, although it can get tiring when holding it open on one hand.
I really appreciate that the power, HDMI, mini-DP, and USB-C Thunderbolt ports are all in the back, which significantly reduce cable mess on the sides. There are plenty of ports on the sides, though, including 3 USB-A ports, a 3.5mm audio jack, and an ethernet port (yes!).
The screen lid can be lifted with one hand for those who like that and does not wobble too much. The bezels are visible, but still allow the 15.6” screen to come forward. However, the chin is pretty big -almost 1.5”! It’s not a big deal once you get used to it. By the way, I am glad that the “Predator” logo on the lid and the chin is much more subtle this time, adding to the sleek presentation. The RGB lighting effects are the hallmark of any gaming laptop, and this is done quite nicely here. I really like the bottom lighting accent, which looks like that of a tuner sports vehicle’s ground effects.
The keyboard’s layout is a bit odd in my experience. While I appreciate the implementation of a NUM pad, as I use it extensively, it feels rather squeezed to the left. For me, it wasn’t as intuitive, and I often kept hitting the “Predator Sense” key, and other keys when trying to hit backspace, enter, etc. This did somewhat affect my productivity. However, I am sure if I spend enough time, I will get used to it. I will say that the keys themselves feel great. There’s good travel, feel very clicky, nice size, and spaced properly (except with the NUM pad).
The touch pad feels very nice and smooth. It is precise, responsive, and clicks satisfactorily. However, it’s a bit on the small side, making gestures somewhat restrictive. This is not a big deal to me as I prefer using a mouse, especially when gaming, but is worth mentioning.
The 1080p camera is surprisingly good. There weren’t a lot of artifacts, even in darker conditions. And the microphone did a good job in picking up my voice at about arm’s length. Pretty nice for video calls.
The screen is very, very good -almost gorgeous. I appreciate the non-glossy display as my office is very bright, although I wish it was a bit brighter (only 300nits). The color accuracy is good enough to allow for some low-level video/picture editing. The colors pop quite nicely though, are vibrant, have good contrast, and are not washed out at all. This makes watching HD content and playing colorful games a pleasure -especially at night. The display’s 165Hz refresh rate with 3ms response is great for competitive gaming.
Speaking of games, this laptop’s performance is impressive. Having decent specs -Intel Core i7 12gen, an RTX 3060, and 16GB DDR5 RAM, I was able to play AAA games such as Elden Ring, Lego Star Wars (2022), and F1 2022 -all well above 60fps at maximum settings. Games like Cyberpunk 2077 and MS Flight Simulator had to be ran at medium-high settings but were still enjoyable. Of course, games like Star Wars BF2, Fortnite, and CS:GO ran well above 165fps. You can also activate the Turbo Mode with a button, which boosts performance, but also makes this usually quiet laptop sound like a vacuum cleaner.
To perform at its best, heat is excellently managed. I never saw GPU temperatures go above 85C GPU and 60C CPU under heavy loads. I did not experience any throttling or performance dips while gaming. As I mentioned already, this device is quiet, but under stress the fans can get awfully loud, especially if Turbo Mode is on.
The speakers are average just like almost all laptops’, so no surprise there. The sound does come through nice and clear, with good channel separation. However, as expected, no bass at all. Plus, if running the laptop in Turbo Mode, you’d best put on some headphones.
The battery life is average as well. It lasted for about 4 hours doing productivity work, and almost 2 hours playing games. I thought I would get more out of the 91Wh battery. The big 280W power brick is very heavy and may affect portability.
While being very fast, I was very disappointed by the small 512GB NVMe SSD. One must make decisions all the time as to which games to keep, since AAA titles can consume over 80GB (up to 120GB!!), Therefore, you must focus on 2-3 big titles, or a bunch of smaller sized ones. The good news is that this laptop can easily be upgraded, as there is an empty NVMe slot available, but may add to the cost.
As a mid-higher tier gaming laptop, I am quite impressed with the 2022 Predator Helios 300. I can play any AAA game on it with very minor concessions. Plus, I dig the new classy design. Keeping in mind the impractical small disk space and a nitpick here and there, I think the asking price seems to be about right, considering similarly spec’d models. Even better if you can get this on special, as you certainly will not regret it.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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The CORSAIR HS55 SURROUND Gaming Headset delivers essential all-day comfort and sound quality with memory foam leatherette ear pads and Dolby® Audio 7.1 surround sound on PC and Mac, without weighing you down thanks to lightweight construction. An omni-directional microphone picks up your voice loud and clear, and custom-tuned 50mm neodymium audio drivers offer great sound quality and range. A 3.5mm audio connector ensures wide compatibility with most devices, including PC, Mac, PS5 with Tempest 3D AudioTech support, PS4, Nintendo Switch, and mobile devices. Powerful CORSAIR iCUE Software unlocks audio equalizer settings, multi-channel 7.1 surround sound, and more. Complete with on-ear volume control for convenient audio adjustments, you can press play on great audio with the HS55 SURROUND.
Customer Rating
5
Comfort, good audio quality, excellent microphone.
on August 6, 2022
Posted by: insomniak1
My desktop setup features a Corsair keyboard, mouse, and mousepad, and I have been quite satisfied with them. Now, I can complete the set, hoping that the HS55 will be a worthy addition.
Aesthetically, I enjoy the matte black finish. It attracts no fingerprints or smudges, and the radial-reflective cups remind me of a vinyl record. Also, the subtle branding compliments the sleekness. Although this is a “gamer” headset, it does not feature any RGB, which I am thankful for once, as I can take it to the office, or use it on business video calls.
Since the HS55 are made almost entirely of plastic, except for the headband’s slider, it feels very much like a budget set. The headband does not have a lot of flex, and the swivels seems plasticky and slim. I am a bit concerned about durability in the long run. The pleather covering the headband and ear pads feel of decent quality, though, and I absolutely love the volume rocker; it feels great and it’s in a good place.
The mostly plastic build allows for the set to be quite light and comfortable to wear. The plush headband padding and the memory foam earpads are super soft, and my ears never touched the inside drivers or rubbed against the pads. There’s good clamping, but it is not headache inducing. After wearing them for a long 4 hours of gaming, the only issue I had was that the sides did get somewhat hot and a bit sweaty, so be prepared to clean them up after an exciting session.
The HS55 are very versatile when it comes to connectivity. Of course, I was able to connect them to all my consoles via the 3.5mm jack on the controllers or handheld. One major feature is that these cans come with a USB-A sound card, which allows for simulated Dolby Audio 7.1 surround sound when plugged to a PC (via Corsair’s iCUE software). The volume rocker is independent from the device, so volume must be set first on the source, including PC.
Out of the box, I was pleased with the default sound signature. Using the 3.5mm cable, I would describe the sound as more mid-forward, rather than bass heavy. However, the bass was still impactful enough and had enough “umph” to make action-adventure games and content exciting. As I mentioned, the mids are pushed slightly forward, making dialogue, background music, and ambient sounds feel more natural. The treble was also slightly pronounced, and that added clarity and a sense of accuracy. The channel separation is excellent, making figuring out where sounds come from much easier (left or right). The soundstage is a bit limited in my opinion, but still expansive enough to picture sounds’ distance and positioning. The headset seems to be tuned more for action-competitive games such as FPS and racing, where directional cues and clarity are most important.
Plugging in the USB-C card, the sound signature improved noticeably. The 50mm drivers became much louder. Just in case the default sound is not to your liking, you can adjust the EQ, or activate Dolby Surround via the downloaded iCUE software. Dolby Surround is handled very smoothly with the HS55. It does not overload the bass nor mute the mids. It makes watching content and playing one-player games more pleasurable in my opinion.
When it comes to music listening, they are simply alright. There is some lack of clarity and some distortion at higher volumes and while they may not satisfy those critical listeners, I found them quite enjoyable for causal listening to a BGM channel while I work.
Now, the microphone may be the star of the show. While the mic’s design language may not win everyone’s approval, as it hangs a bit awkwardly when out or lifted, and is not as flexible, it certainly delivers in call quality. The mic captures my voice loud and clear, making my voice sound natural and full. While people could still hear my mechanical keyboard, it did not become distracting. Perhaps a dedicated mic may be better, this is the next best thing. Plus, the lift-to-mute works well and sidetone is decent. My only wish is to have had a game/mic volume control rocker.
In the end, this is a fantastic budget gaming headset in my opinion. While it does not feature all the bells and whistles, it does not need them, as it checks all the right boxes: comfort, audio, and comms.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Get super-portable sound to go. The XG300 wireless speaker plays as hard as you do, with up to 25 hours of battery life and IP67 waterproof and dustproof. Its rich full sound and booming bass are perfect for when you want quality audio that goes wherever you go.
Customer Rating
5
Exciting sound for that backyard party.
on July 14, 2022
Posted by: insomniak1
Aesthetically, I find the synthetic fabric-textured cylindrical design quite pleasing. It looks premium yet rugged. I appreciate the buttons layout as they are easy to identify. The RGB radiators on the side have nice ambient and party lighting. If that’s not your deal, it can be turned off. The speaker balances well because of the robust rubber footings. Weighing more than 6.5 lbs., this speaker is not exactly as portable as one would expect. However, the very well-thought-out retractable handle addresses this quite effectively. I don’t think I would be carrying it in my hand or even in a bookbag while on a long hike, but to be fair, this speaker seems designed to be taken from place to place and enjoyed once settled down.
I worriedly tested the waterproofing by hosing the speaker while it was on, and I am relieved that the IP67 rating was accurate. I must say that it is amusing to see the water bouncing off the fabric and radiators.
Featuring Bluetooth 5.2 (great for futureproofing), it pairs easily. In fact, my Android phone immediately recognized it with Fast Pair. I walked around outside and did not experience disconnect issues until well beyond 30 feet. I’ve been using the unit for several hours, and I still only used 40%, which means that the battery 25-hour claim may be correct. Just in case, the speaker can be set to lower power-consumption for longer lasting battery, and I welcome the quick-charge feature via USB-C.
In case someone wants to connect without pairing, there’s a convenient 3.5mm jack in the back. Also, there is a USB-A charging port so that your device can last as long as possible.
Most importantly, I was impressed by the audio quality of the “non-circular” drivers and tweeters. The speakers can get loud fast. The sweet spot inside was about 30% and 60% outside. Inside, the sound was certainly warm, and bass oriented. However, the bass was tight and had a restrained impact. There was some sub-bass, but it was subtle. The midrange is a bit recessed, but still comes through giving vocals and rhythm instruments body and presence. The tweeters do a great job in defining treble without being harsh or distracting. There is really good channel separation allowing directional cues to be noticeable. Activating “Mega Bass”, I was pleasantly surprised that the bass did not become obnoxious while adding that sub-woofer feel.
Outside, the frequencies become a bit less clear, and bass can smudge things a bit. Nevertheless, the sound is still enjoyable and powerful. Keeping it real, most people do not care to listen to speakers critically while enjoying the great outdoors, or at a backyard party.
As a bonus, this speaker can be used as a communication device. This means that you can use this speaker on online meetings, personal, and family calls. I tried it and it worked well enough, although the people must be somewhat close and in front of the speaker. Another bonus is the ability to pair several XG300 together and create a parameter, or as a stereo sound system in your entertainment center. It’s quite nifty, but you’d need more than one speaker to take advantage of this and can get expensive.
The companion Music Center app is OK. It provides firmware updates, optimize and choose EQ settings, choose music apps, fine-tune power, illumination, etc. There is also the Fiestable app, which adds more options, motion control through the phone, and voice control. It’s kind of cool, but also kind of gimmicky.
Yes, this is more on the premium side. But once you turn it on and experience the sound it delivers, it immediately justifies the hefty price in my opinion. Plus, the speaker reminds me of those old-school 90’s boom boxes -minus the tape deck. Wish I had it last 4th of July!
I would recommend this to a friend!
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