cjviscito's stats
- Review count194
- Helpfulness votes659
- First reviewNovember 1, 2012
- Last reviewJune 20, 2024
- Featured reviews0
- Average rating4.2
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- Answer count23
- Helpfulness votes23
- First answerFebruary 8, 2010
- Last answerMay 27, 2021
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- Best answers1
Keep your iPhone XS/X functional with this Speck Presidio Pro case. The exterior is made from polycarbonate to withstand the effects of wear and tear, and its antimicrobial treatment prevents bacteria from growing on it. The raised bezel on this Speck Presidio Pro case protects your phone's screen if it lands facedown.
Posted by: cjviscito
from Dallas, TX
In the past, I've used cases for my iPhones that focused on a adding a minimal amount of bulk to the phone. Sometimes the cases work, but minimalist cases tend to need to be replaced after an accidental drop, even from minor heights, like my desk.
A buddy of mine had a Speck case and he loved it. It hit all the right notes for him: 1) Offered a good amount of protection, 2) Didn't clash with the aesthetic look of the phone, and 3) Didn't cost an arm and a leg.
So when I saw the Speck Presidio Pro case, I thought I'd give it a shot. So far, this case has been nearly perfect for my iPhones XS.
It does add a fair amount of bulk to the phone, more than I was initially used to, but I got used to the new weight / heft pretty quickly. What I like about this case is that it's clean - smooth back, nothing fancy or crazy wild design. It's a clean, professional looking case. The case itself at first feel like it's a softer case, but then when I went to put my phone into it, I realized how rigid and tough the case was.
My only real gripe, and it's a total first world problem, is the amount of dust the case retains around the edges of the screen. Because the lip of the case sticks up higher than I'm used to, it's easier for dust and dirt to get around the edges of the screen and it's not really that easy to clean, unless you use some kind of electronic wet wipe. Other than that, this case has been perfect. The case isn't too thick to stop wireless charging and the port cutouts are a good size, so even third party lightning cables that usually have a bulkier head than Apple's work just fine.
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Immerse yourself in detailed audio with these Marshall Minor II black Bluetooth earbuds. An in-line microphone and an intuitive control knob let you take hands-free calls and change songs without your phone. These Marshall Minor II black Bluetooth earbuds have 14.2mm drivers that produce clear, accurate audio and soft ear tips that ensure lasting comfort.
Posted by: cjviscito
from Dallas, TX
I have a pair of Marshall Monitors that I love, but I wanted something a bit lighter for exercising and working during the day. I really like Marshall products, my first guitar amp was, of course, a Marshall. So when I saw the Minors, I thought I'd pick them up and give them a try.
The Minor 2 is a basic, no frills wireless, in-ear set. These are not earbuds - there is a small cord that connect both sides of the headset together. On the right-hand side of the unit is the control box with a knob that controls volume (up or down), skip back or skip forward. The micro USB charging port is also located on the control box as well.
First off, why I love them - they're lightweight and easily fit into my ears. With most sets that have interchangeable cones, I usually use a medium one. The Minors do not come with other adjustable sizes, it's a one-size-fits-all approach. Thankfully, the in-ear components are designed and built in such a way that they don't juggle loose very easily. In fast, I was bopping all around the house the other day wearing them and they never shook loose.
They also advertise 12 hours of use - I've never had an occasion to listen to 12 hours of anything, so I can't say for sure if that's true. I did listen to music using them while I was cleaning out our van after a family trip to the beach (lots of sand to clean out) and they did great! They didn't move, get stuck on my neck, nothing.
Additionally, the copper "M's" on either bud are magnetized. You can take them off, pluck them together and whatever you're listening to will pause. No fielding around with your phone or whatever, just take off, pluck together and go about your business.
There are a few items that keep these from being a home-run product in my book. First, the cord that connects the buds is very short, with no clip option. So if you have a large neck, you'll probably have to wear them with the cord in front rather than behind your neck.
Second, for being so lightweight and compact, I was surprised to see that Marshall didn't include any kind of case to carry them in. You get the headphones, a USB charging cord, and that's it.
Finally, there's a fixed audio setting / equalizer. I included the picture of it from the back of the box. If you want to be able to control the settings based on the music you're listening to, then you'll be disappointed. Also, just like my Monitors', there's no app to customize the settings or sound field - these are straight, no frills, awesome sounding headphones. If you want to be able to customize aspects of the experience, then these aren't for you - if you don't care, then these are probably something to consider.
At the end of the day, I'm happy with them and I keep them in the same pouch as my Monitors for when I'm on the go.
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Capture video while driving with this Nextbase 422GW dash camera. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity automatically sync footage to your phone for easier editing and sharing, and the 2.5-inch IPS touch screen offers intuitive control with upgraded resolution. This Nextbase 422GW dash camera with Alexa built-in uses a G-sensor and SOS response service, safeguarding your footage upon impact while alerting emergency services for safety and a prompt response.
Customer Rating
4
Good Hardware, So/So Software
on July 23, 2019
Posted by: cjviscito
from Dallas, TX
The Nextbase 422 camera comes with a whole host of cool features that I didn't think of when I started looking for a dash cam. The unit itself is really solidly put together. Here is a quick run-down of all the features, bells, and whistles:
* 1080p recording @ 60 fps / 1440 @ 30 fps
* WiFi / Bluetooth connectivity
* 2.5" HD touch screen
* Alexa integration built in
* Intelligent Parking Mode
* Emergency Response (Subscription required)
* WiFi / Bluetooth connectivity
* 2.5" HD touch screen
* Alexa integration built in
* Intelligent Parking Mode
* Emergency Response (Subscription required)
The initial setup was a bit confusing because there's a Nextbase App for iOS / Android as well as a desktop client. I had some issues on my iPhone setting it up, which I attributed to iOS 13 beta, but then when I connected it to my iMac, the software showed a completely different item / serial number. I finally ended up deleting the App and setting it up using my wife's iPhone on iOS 12.
The setup itself comes with a sticker-based and suction-based mount for the camera. I live in Texas where it can be over 115 degrees in the summer, so I opted for the suction cup holder instead of the glue. I've had too many glue-based products fall off due to high heat. Also, you will need to pick up a micro-SD card to even get this thing up and running per the setup instruction.
The device itself works great, but the battery life off power is a joke. This isn't a device that's meant to run off battery power for long, if at all. I had to fight to get the cable routed and hidden in my Honda Crosstour since the car already has a proximity sensor as part of the rear-view mirror assembly where Nextbase suggested I install the camera. Honestly, if you're serious about keeping this in your car long term, do yourself a favor and pick up the kit that lets you connect directly to the car's fuse box. The camera itself comes with a cigarette lighter adapter - and I found myself having to chose between charging my phone or using my dash cam. Since space is a premium in cars, it would've been great if they'd added a USB port to charge your phone as well.
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Organize needed peripherals with this Belkin Thunderbolt 3 DOCK MINI. The two HDMI ports support 4K monitors, while the two USB ports let you link a mouse, keyboard and other devices. Connect to a router for high-speed Internet using the Ethernet port. This Belkin Thunderbolt 3 DOCK MINI works with Windows and Mac devices for increased compatibility, and the thin aluminum body is both durable and portable.
Customer Rating
4
Near Perfect Travel Option
on July 19, 2019
Posted by: cjviscito
from Dallas, TX
I travel a lot for work and use a 13" MacBook Pro with USB-C ports. I usually carry an adapter that connects my laptop to HDMI, USB-A and power through a single dongle. There have been several times that connecting to multiple monitors was required and I was looking for a solution that would allow me to connect to multiple monitors over HDMI from my MacBook.
I picked this up and was pretty surprised by all the functionality that Belkin packed into a smaller hub. For the record, this is a smaller, travel sized version of their larger, beefier TB3 dock. I was able to drive 2 monitors using HDMI and ethernet using this dock. The dock also comes with a single USB-A v2 port and a single USB-A v3 port for connecting accessories. I was able to connect my iPhone using the USB-A v2 port and an external HD using the USB-A v3 port.
My one gripe with all of this seems like an obvious omission: there's no option to pass power through this device. That means that you'll have this dock connected as well as another USB-C plug for power. It seems like an odd choice since so many USB-C accessories have a USB-C port to charge your MacBook at the same time.
I was also able to use this dock on my new 2019 iMac which also uses TB3 / USB-C ports. Transferring data between MacBook and iMac using this dock and my external drive is a breeze. If you're a traveller and want something a little beefier than Apple provides, then you need to check this out.
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Clean messes and dust at the office with this Hoover ONEPWR wet and dry cordless vacuum. The capable motor delivers up to 45 cfm for faster cleaning, and the rechargeable 2 Ah battery facilitates cordless use. This Hoover ONEPWR wet and dry cordless vacuum includes a 3-gal. dirt tank to trap captured debris.
Posted by: cjviscito
from Dallas, TX
My only wet/dry shop vac is the big 6-gallon one that I've had for years. It does the job well enough, but it's a bit of a hassle to run the extension cords from the wall in my garage to the driveway when I clean out our cars.
We have another Hoover cordless vac inside the house, so when I saw this portable wet / dry version, I thought I'd give it a shot. It's about the size of a large tool box, so it's easy enough to carry around. My wife said that the weight is something that she'd feel comfortable using too.
It came with a filter installed and ready to go, along with a crevice tool, and a wider, brush shape head. This thing is designed to be a great, on-the-go option for your cleanup chores. I used it to clean out the backseat of my car - 2 kids makes this a weekly chore.
I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to move around and the utility of the long hose and tools. That being said, the reason I'm not rating it a 5 star is due to the design. See, the top of the vac is held to the bottom by 2 large clamps, one on each side. When you take the top off to empty it, the top of the bottom part curves upward and creates a lip - this made emptying it out a bit more of a chore than my big 6-gallon one.
If you need something small, lightweight, and strong enough to clean up minor messes around your garage or in your car, then you should check this out.
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Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 2 rocks a surprisingly big sound anywhere. Heading outside? Hit Outdoor Boost for louder crisper audio autodoors.
Posted by: cjviscito
from Little Elm, TX, USA
I love my UE MegaBoom and was wanting to find something a bit smaller that would be easier to take on the road with my kids. The new WonderBoom 2 seemed like a no-brainer since I already have the MegaBoom 2.
For starters, the WonderBoom cannot be controlled by the UE App or paired with the MegaBoom - but you can pair multiple WonderBoom 2's together for stereo sound. This also means that unlike it's bigger siblings, the WonderBoom doesn't have an equalizer option to tweak sounds - you get what you get, but that's honestly great enough.
Just like other UE speakers, the WonderBoom 2 has a BT pairing, power, and play/pause button on top. There's also the standard micro-USB charging port on the back. If you have the puck for charging a MegaBoom / MegaBlast speaker - just know it will not work on the WonderBoom.
That's because on the bottom of the WonderBoom is the button to initiate an "Outdoor" mode that is designed to make the thing sound better in an outdoor environment. I haven't noticed a tremendous difference - it sounds great either way. You might notice a difference given the amount of ambient noise outside compared to the noise that was around me when I tried it out.
Just like my MegaBoom, the WonderBoom 2 is safe to use in the pool or shower. Logitech even points out that the WonderBoom can float in the pool. I've used it in the shower listening to music, podcasts and audiobooks and we've had it by our pool too. I haven't had a reason to test how well it floats in the water though.
The build quality is sturdy and strong, like other UE speakers I have. If you want something that is a great, no-frills, BT speaker that is meant to be used outdoors, then the WonderBoom could be what you're looking for.
If you're an audiophile and want to customize the sound more, then you'll need to look at the MegaBoom or MegaBlast products.
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Transfer large files and output Ultra HD video with this Belkin Thunderbolt 3 cable. The maximum transfer speed of 40Gbps rapidly transmits data, while 100W of power delivery let you charge most compatible laptops. This 2.62-foot Belkin Thunderbolt 3 cable offers plug-and-play functionality for simple use, and the ability to daisy-chain up to six devices provides easy workspace customization.
Posted by: cjviscito
from Little Elm, TX, USA
Worked like a charm with my MacBook Pro and my new 2019 5k iMac. Moving large video files back and forth worked so much faster than the old USB Drive I replaced. Little pricey, but the cable's build quality is nice. Haven't tried to see if it would work to charge my MBP since the stock Apple USB-C cord that came with it is longer.
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Acer Laptop: Run graphic-intensive games with this Acer Nitro 5 gaming laptop. The 15.6-inch FHD display shows an immersive picture with sharp visuals. CoolBoost technology lowers CPU and GPU temperatures for long-lasting sessions. This Acer Nitro 5 gaming laptop features a NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 graphics card for a vivid picture, and the high-quality speakers deliver clear dialog and deep bass.
Customer Rating
3
Budget Build Gaming Laptop
on June 4, 2019
Posted by: cjviscito
from Little Elm, TX, USA
I've had decent luck with other Acer laptops in the past. They seem to balance performance for most use cases with a reasonable hit to the wallet. I was looking for a decent enough gaming laptop that could let em enjoy most of my games, but at a price that wouldn't break the bank. I was really interested in the Acer Nitro 5 and was even happier to see the price tag wasn't too high.
Sadly, there were several drawbacks that caused me some frustration. There's a lot of people complaining about the build quality of the case being all plastic. That didn't bother me too much, but it is worth noting that other Acer laptops I've had before were cheaper and were metal. I guess Acer spent the money on the inside of the machine.
One of my biggest pet peeves with screens is when there's light bleeding around the edges. For a laptop to be marketed as a gaming laptop, I would assume some pretty decent controls in this regard. Sadly, my Nitro 5 had light bleeding all around the edge of the screen. Playing a darker game made it seem like the gamma was up too high.
The build I opted for included a 128GB SSD and a 1TB hard drive for storage. I found Windows 10 to be really snappy, as expected, running off the SSD. However, when I went to do anything that touched the hard drive, I noticed a lag in data read/write. Another thing I hate with most laptops is the amount of bloatware I have to remove to make it as vanilla as possible. I usually always have to remove Norton and Candy Crush - sorry, but I don't hit up sketchy sites and I didn't spend the money to play something my kid's want to play.
From a connectivity point, the Nitro came nicely equipped with HDMI, USB-C (Not Thunderbolt 3), USB-3 and regular USB. Bluetooth and AC WiFI were also there. I primarily use my device over WiFI, so I can't speak to the speed of the ethernet port.
Because this is a budget friendly build, the graphics were limited to Full HD 1080p at 144Hz. The GeForce card in mine wasn't powerful enough to push 4K gaming. Not that I would've expected it - but just something to be aware of.
The keys are backlit which is a nice touch - however, there's only one option - red. The keyboard does have a nice quality of touch to it and I didn't notice anything terribly off in the responsiveness. The sound quality of the speakers was just OK - if you want better sound reproduction, then make sure you use your headset.
All in all, I wasn't disappointed enough to say I wouldn't recommend it. If you're looking for a reasonably spec'ed laptop to do most day-to-day work and then some light gaming, this might be perfect for you. If you're a hardcore gamer, then you'll probably want to save up the money for something a little beefier.
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Enjoy wireless device charging with this versatile Belkin BOOST UP charging dock. A 7.5W charging pad rapidly powers up a variety of iPhones, while a 5W magnetic charging module does the same for your Apple watch. This Belkin BOOST UP charging dock features a 5W USB-A port for charging compatible devices and comes with a compact AC adapter for quick installation.
Posted by: cjviscito
from Little Elm, TX, USA
Ever since I upgraded from my iPhone 7 Plus to my XS, I've been wanting a dock that could wirelessly charge my iPhone (since I have a waterproof case), charge my Apple Watch and iPad Pro as well. There were several options I was able to find online, but the reviews were mixed and the companies were one's I'd never heard of before.
That's when I finally found this all-in-one dock solution from Belkin. I trust Belkin products, I've never had one steer me wrong. Most of my third party accessories, from cables to docks to adapters are Belkin products.
The design of the dock is pretty straightforward - there's a vertical stand for your iPhone, and a built-in puck for your Apple Watch. On the rear of the dock, there's a standard USB-A out for a lightning cable or other charging cable to charge another device.
One aspect of the design that I really found thoughtful was how Belkin handled the power cable. It is designed to fit flush with the base of the dock and even includes a little rubber foot that is the same as the rubber feet on the bottom of the dock. This helps provide the dock with a sense of balance and surety, while making the cord melt away seamlessly with the base.
Given that this is designed to charge up to 3 devices at once, the power brick is huge. At first I was surprised to see how large it was, but then I also realized I was able to free up 3 outlets on my power strip because I didn't need the 2 5-w pucks for my watch and phone or the 12-w one for my iPad. The power brick and cord are proprietary - so if you lose it, you're out of luck.
I love this dock because it enables me to charge all my devices in a clean, minimalist design that it's blocky or require routing separate cables. The fact that it's also made by a reputable providers of accessories like Belkin can help you sleep better at night.
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Keep your kids safe online with this Circle Home Plus monitoring setup. The included device uses your router to manage every device on your network, and Circle App makes it simple to limit screen time, filter content, and check browsing histories. This Circle Home Plus monitoring setup is easy to set up and lets you create custom settings for each family member.
Customer Rating
3
Good Option - but not for me
on May 12, 2019
Posted by: cjviscito
from Little Elm, TX, USA
We have 2 young girls in our house and I'm always monitoring their digital time. I had been looking at the Circle with Disney at the store for a while, so when I saw Circle Plus I thought I'd give it a shot.
Setting up was straightforward enough, hook it up to my router and set up the app. We used it for about a week or so before I made the choice to unplug it. I wasn't really seeing any value outside of the Screentime settings on my girls' iPad minis. We already control their content and screen time settings on those devices and having to have something manage settings on top of already managed settings seemed a bit redundant.
If you're less technically inclined, or don't want to have to go through the trial and error of setting up Screentime on Apple devices, or have kids that will try and sneak gadget time after you've told them no - then this product might be what you're looking for. The premium features require a subscription, but I didn't see the point for us... so YMMV.
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Experience immersive entertainment options with this Sony 4K Blu-ray player. Its Ultra HD resolution provides exceptionally detailed screen images with increased brightness and more realistic color, and its support of Dolby Atmos and DTS:X provides cinema-quality sound. This Sony 4K Blu-ray player supports high-resolution audio formats for more accurate music reproduction.
Can this Sony Player connect to a soundbar receiver with blue tooth?
According to the specs, yes, you should be able to pair a unit with a Bluetooth soundbar - but to be fair, I didn't try it.
7 years, 1 month ago
by
cjviscito
Simplify your everyday life with the Google Home, a voice-activated speaker powered by the Google Assistant. Use voice commands to enjoy music, get answers from Google and manage everyday tasks. Google Home is compatible with Android and iOS operating systems, and can control compatible smart devices such as Chromecast or Nest."
What other device is need to turn lights off in your home?
You need a smart switch. Home natively supports Philips Hue - but if you have a WeMo switch like I do, you need to rely on the IFTTT app and write some if-then guidelines.
7 years, 7 months ago
by
cjviscito
Which HDMI cable is the best? Audio Quest,Monster Cable,RocketFish
There's really no difference right now between HDMI cables. With Monster, you're paying for the brand and really nothing else when it comes to HDMI cables.
Best Buy has some cables that are online only and are a great value. No noticable difference between the value cable and a 3' Monster cable that I had.
Best Buy has some cables that are online only and are a great value. No noticable difference between the value cable and a 3' Monster cable that I had.
14 years, 4 months ago
by
cjviscito
Dallas, TX