insomniak1's stats
- Review count153
- Helpfulness votes525
- First reviewJuly 29, 2015
- Last reviewApril 21, 2024
- Featured reviews0
- Average rating4.7
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- Answer count42
- Helpfulness votes50
- First answerAugust 9, 2016
- Last answerJanuary 7, 2022
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Get your first feel of racing thrills with this Thrustmaster T128 Racing Wheel for PlayStation 4/5 and PC. Optimized Force Feedback system with a lightweight wheel rim renders fun, intuitive racing sensations in different types of vehicle-oriented games. Precise T-MP magnetic paddle shifters gives you clear activation feel. Gear up for your next racing adventure with this T128 Racing Wheel!
Customer Rating
4
Decent entry-level racing kit.
on April 17, 2023
Posted by: insomniak1
Initially, I thought the T128 wheel was more like a toy. It is not a full-size wheel, light, and made mostly of hard plastic. The buttons feel kind of cheap, especially the shoulder buttons (LB2, RB2, LB3, and LB3) and d-pad. Although quite loud and clicky, the paddle shifters actually do feel authentic and are of decent size. The dual-pedal board is exceptionally small, which adds to the toy look.
Setting it up is quite easy. The clamp has good clearance and is highly adjustable. There is no need to use any tools whatsoever. Because the wheel is so light, it feels very secure on the table (I tried two different setups). The wheel is fixed, with no room for up-down adjustments. The cables are long enough for a PC setup, but I did have to bring my PS5 closer to the rig in the living room.
On the PC desktop, the wheel was immediately recognized in all my racing sims, including Fortza 5, NFS: Unbound and Grid Legends. Weirdly, I could not get it to work with F1 2022, which is a bummer. I did run into a small issue when hooking it up on the PS5. Turns out you must select the platform by using a combination of buttons which are not in the manual and found online (a QR code is provided on the simple manual). After figuring this out, it was all smooth sailing from there. I played GT7, Assetto Corsa Competizione, Dirt 5, and thankfully for me, F1 2022.
Most importantly, the actual driving experience is what I found somewhat surprising. Despite the toyish look, the wheel was responsive and precise. On PC, I noticed that the force feedback is soft, but still noticeable and helpful. The turning was a bit loose, but messing with PC games settings easily took care of that. Now the PS5 is where the T128 truly shines. The force feedback was strong, contextual, and the 900° turn added to the realism. There was a real difference felt while driving in asphalt, grass, and gravel. The turning was tighter. The paddle shifters were on point and combined with the engine speed lights, changing gears were a joy. I will say that the hard plastic did make my hands cramp up a bit during intense driving, which makes me wish a little padding would’ve been nice. Wear gloves if you have them!
Unfortunately, the pedal design is the T128’s true weakness. Depending on the driving style and the surface on which it is placed, the experience will vary. Because of the size of the pedals and how close they are to each other, wearing shoes is a no-go. Luckily, I have wrestling shoes (which feel a lot like driving shoes) and that made it easier to avoid accidentally pressing both at the same time. Another thing is that there is no weight on the base, and the rubber footings have no grip at all, which meant that I had to keep one foot on the base to hold it in place. This can be very distracting and cumbersome, especially if you use a dual-foot or toe-hill action. Nevertheless, I still found it functional enough once I sort-of got used to it. The good thing is that the pedal response is as tight as the shifters.
Again, I have to stress that this is an entry-level, casual racing kit and as such it is considerably less expensive than other more advanced kits. The T128 has some truly strong points in its favor, and if you don’t mind not using shoes and find a way to keep the base in place, it is great for beginners at a very decent price. If you’re a PS5 driver, it's a no-brainer.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Featuring next-gen acoustics and new levels of connectivity, Era 100 transforms any room with the finely tuned stereo sound and rich bass your music deserves. Easily play all your audio content using WiFi, Bluetooth, and 3.5 mm line in. Enjoy hands-free control with your voice.
Customer Rating
5
A delightful experience and app.
on March 27, 2023
Posted by: insomniak1
I must acknowledge the effort by SONOS in the packaging. They somehow provided a nice unboxing experience while maintaining an environmentally friendly touch. Visually, the ERA 100 looks like any other classic wireless speaker. That’s not a bad thing as it goes well in any setting, especially in my office. I appreciate the matte-black finish of my unit since it does not smudge easily, although it does attract some dust. It is on the larger side and has some weight to it, and so it feels like it is well-built and durable.
On the top, there are easy-to-understand touch controls and a volume “slider”, which are intuitive and responsive. There are also switches in the back for voice privacy and Bluetooth pairing. Out of the box, the speaker is ready to go via Bluetooth or a 3.5mm connection. Pairing is super easy. Having said that, to get the most out of this unit it is extremely important to download the SONOS app and setup the speaker. The process is virtually painless. The robust app allows for registration, updates, controls, mics, EQ customization (excellent!) and many other options. The “Trueplay” option is quite interesting as it makes the speaker emit a sound that “tunes” the sound signature based on the configuration of the room or space. I originally thought it was a bit gimmicky, but eventually found that it does make a difference acoustically.
Speaking of acoustics, I am quite impressed with the overall sound the ERA 100 produces. At default settings, the sound signature is more on the mainstream warm side, but that’s what I look for in this type of product. The bass is booming -and I mean it, giving that subwoofer feeling. While the bass may be a bit loose, it has enough control for impact without overriding any other frequencies or distort at high volume. The mids are a bit suppressed, but still present enough to allow for crisp vocals, rhythm instruments, choruses, etc. The treble is well defined, adding clarity, and makes high frequency vocals, rifts, lead guitars, violin, and piano sound great. The speaker can get very loud and fills a mid-size room well. While the unit features a dual-speaker stereo configuration, I found it a bit difficult to discern the left-right channel separation, even when listening closely and in front of it. This affects the sense of where the sounds are coming from (imaging), and the soundstage seems a bit restricted. In reality, this is not a big deal unless you are listening critically, and that is not what this device is intended for.
I tried it with movies, and it was definitely an upgrade from the TV’s speakers. But again, the channel separation needs to be more accurate. Having only one speaker, I can’t help but to wish for a second one for that true stereo experience.
The ERA 100 is fully compatible with the Alexa voice assistant. It recognized and responded accurately to every command without significant hiccups -even at decent distances. I do wish it had a specific light as other compatible speakers when there is a pending notification, but that’s a minor nitpick.
The icing on the cake is the SONOS’ Radio, which comes included in the app. While there are some commercials, they are not overly intrusive or distracting. There are several stations and curated playlists that are well put together for different genres. There is a subscription that upgrades sound fidelity and adds options, but it is not necessary. Just in case, the speaker is compatible with all other major music platforms.
In the end, I am very pleased with the ERA 100 and my introduction to the SONOS ecosystem. It is certainly worth the value in my opinion.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Take your audio setup to the next level with the B450. Bass tones come alive and create a more well rounded sound with the included subwoofer¹. And if you want to crank it up even more, Bass Boost amplifies the deeper tones at the touch of a button. Whether you’re playing games or kicking back with your favorite show, Adaptive Sound Lite enhances and optimizes your entertainment. Plus, you can seamlessly pair mobile devices with Bluetooth® TV Connection². ¹Applicable on Q series, B models and S8 series. ²Please check whether your TV is Bluetooth® compatible.
Customer Rating
5
Basic but performs rather wonderfully.
on December 29, 2022
Posted by: insomniak1
Aesthetically, the soundbar is what you’d expect from a compact sound system solution. The build quality is top-notch, however. I appreciate the cloth cover for the drivers and subwoofer, and the matte-black brush aluminum finish makes it look sleek. At a little below 34”, it fits almost anywhere in front or below a 32” TV or bigger. It is also quite light and easy to move around since weighing only 3 lbs. This makes it easier to install it on the wall with the included hardware. The same goes for the subwoofer, as it is not as big as other Samsung woofers I have.
As far as connectivity. This soundbar is very limited with wired optical and Bluetooth support only. So keep that in mind. It is best if your TV or device supports optical connection. I wish it had a 3.5mm jack at least. Pairing wireless via BT is quite easy and although most smart TVs support that, I highly recommend checking if this is possible before choosing this bar. When connected wirelessly, I had a hard time syncing the audio through the bar and depending on the source, it couldn’t be done. It synched well with my mobile device and tablet, had a very slight (but acceptable) lag with the TV while gaming, but I had massive sync issues with a projector.
Out of the box, I found the audio signature pleasant with a warm quality to it. Although not as precise, there is a good amount of bass with good extension. The mids are slightly recessed and the treble is there, but not as clear as I’d like. Nevertheless, it works great with most video content, especially action flicks. I am glad that the soundbar has multiple EQ modes, including “Voice Enhance Mode” which allows for better dialogue audio and does help in most cases, but I found “night mode” to be the best for such content. While the soundbar can get very loud, I found that I had to keep it at 15 or above in a small to medium-size room. There is some distortion at high volume though.
Supporting Dolby Audio / DTS 2.0 Virtual:X technology, I was somewhat disappointed of the surround effect. While channel separation is well defined -mostly left/right, the effect heavily depends on the content’s own audio coding. So basically, experiences may vary. The best audio enhancements, as already mentioned, come when connected via optical cable, which is included. On Bluetooth, the effect is very subtle.
As far as music, it does the job. It is not super clear, but if you are not listening critically, it is certainly enjoyable. The bass has body, the midrange is good enough, and the highs seems clear. Again, at higher volumes, some genres such as Jazz and orchestra become messy or fatiguing after a while.
In the end, this is as basic as you’d expect from a quality soundbar. This applies to connectivity, sound quality, surround effects, and functionality. For the original MSRP, I am not sure. However, on special price, it's a steal and I would highly recommend checking it out -especially if you have a Samsung TV. In my case, this bar was a great option to enjoy with my projector theater setup.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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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. Whether it’s a podcast, a call or your favorite playlist, listen blissfully with Galaxy Buds2 Pro. Now you can hear translations through your Buds while on calls or during face-to-face conversations
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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This Element 27" frameless gaming monitor provides everything you need for premium gameplay or everyday tasks. This 1440P resolution monitor is equipped with FreeSync Technology for avoiding tearing and reducing stuttering. With easy set-up for multiple screens, you're able to expand your view and get more done. The 16:9 widescreen resolution partnered with a 1ms response time and 165hz refresh rate allows a vivid, realistic picture so you can be immersed in your gaming world. Built-in speakers and a sleek, frameless screen enable the monitor to blend with your decor for a clean aesthetic.
I was wondering how this would run with my xbox series s? I plan to buy a monitor for my xbox and I was wondering if this is a good option. :)
I am loving it with my Series S. I can run games that support 2K @ 120Hz.
2 years, 3 months ago
by
insomniak1
This Element 27" frameless gaming monitor provides everything you need for premium gameplay or everyday tasks. This 1440P resolution monitor is equipped with FreeSync Technology for avoiding tearing and reducing stuttering. With easy set-up for multiple screens, you're able to expand your view and get more done. The 16:9 widescreen resolution partnered with a 1ms response time and 165hz refresh rate allows a vivid, realistic picture so you can be immersed in your gaming world. Built-in speakers and a sleek, frameless screen enable the monitor to blend with your decor for a clean aesthetic.
Does it have a hdmi?
This Element 27" frameless gaming monitor provides everything you need for premium gameplay or everyday tasks. This 1440P resolution monitor is equipped with FreeSync Technology for avoiding tearing and reducing stuttering. With easy set-up for multiple screens, you're able to expand your view and get more done. The 16:9 widescreen resolution partnered with a 1ms response time and 165hz refresh rate allows a vivid, realistic picture so you can be immersed in your gaming world. Built-in speakers and a sleek, frameless screen enable the monitor to blend with your decor for a clean aesthetic.
Is this monitor good for an Xbox one s gaming? I'm new to monitors and this one would be my first one
I am loving playing my Series S on this monitor. I even get 1440p @ 120Hz!
2 years, 3 months ago
by
insomniak1
This Element 27" frameless gaming monitor provides everything you need for premium gameplay or everyday tasks. This 1440P resolution monitor is equipped with FreeSync Technology for avoiding tearing and reducing stuttering. With easy set-up for multiple screens, you're able to expand your view and get more done. The 16:9 widescreen resolution partnered with a 1ms response time and 165hz refresh rate allows a vivid, realistic picture so you can be immersed in your gaming world. Built-in speakers and a sleek, frameless screen enable the monitor to blend with your decor for a clean aesthetic.
Does it have integrated speakers?
Yes, it does. Still, I'd recommend getting some desktop speakers!
2 years, 3 months ago
by
insomniak1
Introducing G303 Shroud Edition—the remaster of our iconic mouse. Featuring LIGHTSPEED, it delivers ultra-low latency and reliable performance. Helping Shroud and you take aim. With HERO 25K Sensor, Shroud’s G303 is built for precision and speed, without sacrificing energy. G303 Shroud Edition weighs 75 grams, made for low-sensitivity DPI and faster aiming. Designed in collaboration with Shroud, the new G303 perfectly matches his specs and includes our latest pro-grade technology.
Will shroud possess my body if I use this.
One can only hope so! My K/D ratio needs help!
2 years, 4 months ago
by
insomniak1
Introducing G303 Shroud Edition—the remaster of our iconic mouse. Featuring LIGHTSPEED, it delivers ultra-low latency and reliable performance. Helping Shroud and you take aim. With HERO 25K Sensor, Shroud’s G303 is built for precision and speed, without sacrificing energy. G303 Shroud Edition weighs 75 grams, made for low-sensitivity DPI and faster aiming. Designed in collaboration with Shroud, the new G303 perfectly matches his specs and includes our latest pro-grade technology.
Does this mouse have a battery included? Is the battery replaceable?
The mouse is rechargeable with a USB-C to USB-A cable, which is included. I don't think the battery is replaceable. Hope that helps!
2 years, 4 months ago
by
insomniak1
Rich, radiant sound meets exceptional battery life in the SOUNDFORM Freedom True Wireless Earbuds. Custom drivers activate deep bass while maintaining clear mids and highs. Our advanced clear-call technology and dual microphones ensure remarkable call quality. There’s up to 8 hours of non-stop playtime, plus another 28 in the charging case. As one of the first third-party accessories to work with the Apple Find My network you can track and locate the charging case using the Apple Find My app.
1. I have an Android Motorola G Stylus unlocked phone. Will it work with it? 2. Also, I have an HP Elite laptop. Will it work with the laptop?
It should. It works with any device that has Bluetooth,
2 years, 5 months ago
by
insomniak1
The latest Intel 11th Core i5 processor with GeForce® RTX3050 Ti graphics also equipped with a large 17.3" FHD 144hz display. Personalize your laptop with RGB keyboard.
Does this laptop have wifi5 or wifi6?
The latest Intel 11th Core i5 processor with GeForce® RTX3050 Ti graphics also equipped with a large 17.3" FHD 144hz display. Personalize your laptop with RGB keyboard.
Does this model have a second ssd slot?
Soundcore Life Tune XR are active noise cancelling headphones with Hi-Res Certified sound. The Multi-Mode noise cancellation technology detects and cancels out exterior noise. Use for calls with the dual microphones and have long, 60 hour listening sessions due to the long battery life and comfortable earcups.
Would this work well for mowing the yard? I listen to books and music while on the mower. If so, what setting would you recommend?
They do a decent job in ANC. My neighbor had the mower going and they did OK. I could still hear it but I was still able to appreciate the podcast. They may not be the best, but then again, we can't compare to headsets that are 4 times more expensive. Hope that helps!
3 years ago
by
insomniak1