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- Review count112
- Helpfulness votes67
- First reviewApril 27, 2012
- Last reviewMay 11, 2024
- Featured reviews0
- Average rating3.7
- Review comment count3
- Helpfulness votes0
- First review commentOctober 1, 2015
- Last review commentMay 19, 2017
- Featured review comments0
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- Answer count31
- Helpfulness votes10
- First answerDecember 30, 2013
- Last answerJanuary 14, 2022
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- Best answers2
Hear every footstep, click and breath with this Razer Kraken digital gaming headset. The powerful 50mm drivers have neodymium magnets so that they produce exceptional sound directly to your ear, and the included microphone picks up speech clearly. This Razer Kraken digital gaming headset connects to a USB port for easy setup.
Customer Rating
4
Great Sound-limited systems
on March 30, 2017
Posted by: hokie00
from MD
These headphones have a great sound quality. They are USB (not 3.5mm or 8mm). There is also a built-in retractable microphone in the left earpiece. They are bulky, full over ear headphones, so if you like a lighter fit they will not be for you. If you prefer the full headphone with great noise cancelling ability then this is good for you.
I initially picked these up to use on my Xbox One and computer. Warning, they do not work on all systems (namely Xbox). They do work on PC/Mac and PS4. Make sure you check the compatibility before you purchase. The other Kraken Pro V2 works on PC/PS4/Xbox/Mobile Devices w/ a 3.5mm jack. (FYI, the Kraken 7.1 V2 w/ USB does not list PS4 on the Best Buy site, but does on the Razer site.)
The side ear covers also have Chroma lighting effects (look cool, change colors on the Razer logo)
For just listening, the headphones are plug and play with a PC (I don't have a PS4 or Mac so I cannot attest). I have not had a chance to install or test the mic and software on my PC yet. But the Synapse program allows you to configure controls with other Razer devices and track your in-game movements.
This product seems a very good quality.
My Best Buy number: 0402259181
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Clean carpets, couches and stairs easily with this adaptable Dyson Ball Animal vacuum. Various attachments, including a tangle-free turbine tool, a multi-angle brush and a stair tool make pet hair removal quick and simple. The Dyson Ball Animal vacuum comes with a generous 35-foot cord, making it ideal for larger homes.
Customer Rating
4
Great Vacuum, Easy Turn, Strange Design
on March 22, 2017
Posted by: hokie00
from MD
This vacuum has plenty of suction, works great and has a fairly wide head for covering a large floor. It is relatively easy to setup and use but does have a very different design than I am used to and takes some getting used to.
I have had a Kenmore Bagless upright vac for many years now and it has served me well. It has a large head and good suction, great for larger rooms. But this has been prone from time to time to get clogged (easily fixed).
I recently got a Shark Rocket Bagless Upright vac this past year. This works well for smaller rooms, hallways, and stairs but does not have the same size head or suction power of a larger upright vac like the Kenmore. It also has a small dust chamber that gets filled and requires emptying quickly.
I recently got a Shark Rocket Bagless Upright vac this past year. This works well for smaller rooms, hallways, and stairs but does not have the same size head or suction power of a larger upright vac like the Kenmore. It also has a small dust chamber that gets filled and requires emptying quickly.
This new Dyson Animal is equivalent to the larger Kenmore in performance but not quite as large and turns much easier. I have only had it for a week so I don't know about how quickly it needs emptying or gets clogged, but based on Dyson's reputation the clogging should not be an issue.
The setup of the vacuum was quick and easy. There is a holder on the side of the vacuum for all but one of the attachments (not sure why one was forgotten). The suction is great. The canister is easy to remove/empty. There are a lot of buttons to learn (release this, push this then this, open this to use this). The major difference between this vacuum and most others I have used in the past is the switch from regular brush head vacuum and wand/attachments and the ball that allows easier pivot/turning.
The wand is the handle and you do not need to remove or disconnect anything to use it or switch from the regular brush head. This is a nice feature but takes getting used to. When you lift the button on the top of the handle (which keeps the suction closed I presume) you slide the wand up and can extend it as needed (with another button). You can attach one of the accessories now as needed. The vacuum brush head shuts off when you pull the wand out.
There are not many settings that I am aware of, only brush on/off for carpets or hard floors.
The Dyson Ball base allows for easy turn and pivot compared to a traditional upright vacuum like my Kenmore which makes it very flexible.
My Best Buy number: 0402259181
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Arlo Pro takes the worrying out of life with the 100% Wire-Free indoor/outdoor home monitoring system. Arlo Pro includes rechargeable batteries, motion and sound-activated alerts, 2-way audio, a 100+ decibel siren, and 7 days of free cloud HD video recordings. Arlo covers every angle to help keep you safe and protected.
Customer Rating
5
Great camera. Easy app. Easy setup
on January 8, 2017
Posted by: hokie00
from MD
I have the 2 camera package and it works great. The setup was easy, and the app is easy to navigate. You can buy the package with a variety of cameras if you like or add them on later but f you want
When you pull it out of the box there are two cameras two batteries two magnetic wall mounts with hardware, the netgear receiver, network cable, USB charging cable
The first step is to install the provided rechargeable batteries I. The small cameras, then plug in the netgear base and sync the cameras to it (takes about 3-5 min). At the same time you can install the app on your phone or tablet to control the cameras (or log in from a desktop computer if you prefer)
The system hooks into your home wifi. Range says 300 ft but I have only tested about 50 ft
Pros: picture very clear in no light (b/w) to normal light (HD color). There is a mic to record sound and a speaker to talk to people in the room. There is also a siren you can set off at the netgear base. Cameras are wireless (power and data). Indoor/outdoor use from 14-122 d Fahrenheit many easy controls from the app (cameras on/off, motion sensor on/off, motion sensor schedule, record on/off and others)
Cons: since they are wireless ( good feature) you will need to recharge them (every 6 mo according to the manufacturer or less depending on the amount of recording done). They are easy to remove from the mount since it's just a powerful magnet (but also easy to steal if you mount outside in an easy to access spot). 2 second delay on video so fast movement may not be caught on motion sensor
When you pull it out of the box there are two cameras two batteries two magnetic wall mounts with hardware, the netgear receiver, network cable, USB charging cable
The first step is to install the provided rechargeable batteries I. The small cameras, then plug in the netgear base and sync the cameras to it (takes about 3-5 min). At the same time you can install the app on your phone or tablet to control the cameras (or log in from a desktop computer if you prefer)
The system hooks into your home wifi. Range says 300 ft but I have only tested about 50 ft
Pros: picture very clear in no light (b/w) to normal light (HD color). There is a mic to record sound and a speaker to talk to people in the room. There is also a siren you can set off at the netgear base. Cameras are wireless (power and data). Indoor/outdoor use from 14-122 d Fahrenheit many easy controls from the app (cameras on/off, motion sensor on/off, motion sensor schedule, record on/off and others)
Cons: since they are wireless ( good feature) you will need to recharge them (every 6 mo according to the manufacturer or less depending on the amount of recording done). They are easy to remove from the mount since it's just a powerful magnet (but also easy to steal if you mount outside in an easy to access spot). 2 second delay on video so fast movement may not be caught on motion sensor
One concern I have is security of the camera data and controls from outside hacking. It is only as secure as your home wifi
Overall a great easy to use and setup product. Would also be great for a baby room monitor
My Best Buy number: 0402259181
I would recommend this to a friend!
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The Shark Genius Steam Pocket Mop System is our most advanced floor cleaning system ever. Featuring both a Steam Mop and a Spray Pocket mop, the Genius system is the right solution for all your cleaning needs. Harness the power of steam to sanitize 99.9% of household bacteria*. (Sanitization studies were conducted under controlled test conditions. Household conditions and results may vary.)
Customer Rating
4
Steam works great-extra handle non needed
on December 26, 2016
Posted by: hokie00
from MD
This Shark Steam mop will definitely replace our old steam mop. The package includes 1 steam mop head with 2 double-sided pads, 1 steam mop handle (with cord, fill cup), 1 dry mop handle (w/ cleaner & spray bottle)
Pads can be attached 'hands free' in case it's wet or you don't want to get your hands dirty, but it's probably easiest if you use your hands to expedite the process. Easy to fill & see water level. Cup attaches to handle so you won't have to go looking for it. The double pads give you extra cleaning ability without having to change pads as often. The steam mop leaves the floor looking clean without any streaks.
One disadvantage is you will need to use the Shark pads and cannot replace with a generic pad or cloth from home, but they seem durable/machine washable and there are two so this should not be a problem.
There is a 2nd handle for spray and clean without steam (dry) with a solution provided by Shark. This is also a specific cleaner but I imagine you could refill their bottle with another cleaner of your choosing when it runs out. The cleaner says it's to aid the steam cleaning process, but the 2nd handle it attaches to does not have steam so I assumed it could be used with the steam mop or with the dry handle.
I did not find a need for the 2nd (dry mop) handle, I believe it will just take up space and I can do everything I would with the steam mop handle, it's just a little bulkier. If they added a 2nd mop head to go with the 2nd handle it would be more useful, but since you have to change the mop head regardless, you might as well use the steam mop handle only in my opinion.
The mop pad is double sided, that is it covers the mop head on both sides so you can flip it over and use the clean top side if the bottom gets too dirty and you get twice as much coverage before needing to change/wash it. The way to attach the pad is a little unusual but easy to figure out. You just slide the tabs from the mob head into the sleeves on the back side of the pad.
All in all I think the mop works great, I would just eliminate the dry mop handle, or add a 2nd mop head to go with it.
Great product.
Pads can be attached 'hands free' in case it's wet or you don't want to get your hands dirty, but it's probably easiest if you use your hands to expedite the process. Easy to fill & see water level. Cup attaches to handle so you won't have to go looking for it. The double pads give you extra cleaning ability without having to change pads as often. The steam mop leaves the floor looking clean without any streaks.
One disadvantage is you will need to use the Shark pads and cannot replace with a generic pad or cloth from home, but they seem durable/machine washable and there are two so this should not be a problem.
There is a 2nd handle for spray and clean without steam (dry) with a solution provided by Shark. This is also a specific cleaner but I imagine you could refill their bottle with another cleaner of your choosing when it runs out. The cleaner says it's to aid the steam cleaning process, but the 2nd handle it attaches to does not have steam so I assumed it could be used with the steam mop or with the dry handle.
I did not find a need for the 2nd (dry mop) handle, I believe it will just take up space and I can do everything I would with the steam mop handle, it's just a little bulkier. If they added a 2nd mop head to go with the 2nd handle it would be more useful, but since you have to change the mop head regardless, you might as well use the steam mop handle only in my opinion.
The mop pad is double sided, that is it covers the mop head on both sides so you can flip it over and use the clean top side if the bottom gets too dirty and you get twice as much coverage before needing to change/wash it. The way to attach the pad is a little unusual but easy to figure out. You just slide the tabs from the mob head into the sleeves on the back side of the pad.
All in all I think the mop works great, I would just eliminate the dry mop handle, or add a 2nd mop head to go with it.
Great product.
My Best Buy number: 0402259181
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Energize your workout routine with these Sony wireless sports headphones. Their built-in LDAC enhanced codec support and Bluetooth connectivity let you stream high-quality audio content for an enhanced listening experience while you’re on the move. The included cable adjuster and clip help ensure these Sony wireless sports headphones stay in place.
Customer Rating
4
Great Sounding, Good Fit-if you like over ear
on November 30, 2016
Posted by: hokie00
from MD
These bluetooth headphones sound great. I used them for music and audiobooks. I personally prefer the in-ear bud style headphones to the over the ear clip on type. They stayed on well for exercise and general use. Although with the over-ear hook the earphone did not stay all the way in my ear-seemed to not sit flat enough to keep the bud in ear.
The controls on the right ear hook/clip are easy enough to use, but I found it difficult to find them without feeling around behind my ear. I am used to the neck band style controls on my LG Tone, or the wire/mic controls on the Bose SoundSport. I would recommend these for use to exercise or active (running, lifting, etc.), but would seem a little bulky for everyday non-active use (desk, in car, etc.) - something a little less intrusive like the Tone might be better.
The controls on the right ear hook/clip are easy enough to use, but I found it difficult to find them without feeling around behind my ear. I am used to the neck band style controls on my LG Tone, or the wire/mic controls on the Bose SoundSport. I would recommend these for use to exercise or active (running, lifting, etc.), but would seem a little bulky for everyday non-active use (desk, in car, etc.) - something a little less intrusive like the Tone might be better.
My Best Buy number: 0402259181
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Keep unwanted hair to a minimum with this Philips grooming tool. The waterproof design lets you use it in the shower, and eight attachments make this trimmer perfect for grooming different sections of the face. This Philips grooming tool has a turbo setting to increase cutting speed, and it charges in just one hour to reduce wait time.
Customer Rating
4
Cuts well dry. Open guards no good
on November 15, 2016
Posted by: hokie00
from MD
These trimmers work well and there is a good amount of adjustment for the guards. However the open trimmer guards don't cut evenly-make sure to use the closed front guard
Several useful attachments - regular clippers, nose trimmer, fine trimmer, body shaver, 3 guards (2 open 1 closed-use that one)
Rechargeable for up to 1 hour use (I haven't tested the full time yet)
Comes with a good size case for trimmers and attachments
Several useful attachments - regular clippers, nose trimmer, fine trimmer, body shaver, 3 guards (2 open 1 closed-use that one)
Rechargeable for up to 1 hour use (I haven't tested the full time yet)
Comes with a good size case for trimmers and attachments
My Best Buy number: 0402259181
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Connect your external wireless devices to the internet with this Linksys dual-band router. Two 5Ghz bands support both high-end gaming and low-end applications without compromising speed, and remote management lets you make adjustments from any location. This Linksys dual-band router has a sleek design that integrates easily into most workspaces.
Customer Rating
3
Router works fine-not an upgrd
on October 22, 2016
Posted by: hokie00
from MD
This is a router only and does not include a modem (you will have to keep your current modem to use this)
The router was pretty easy to setup. You will have to connect with a cable to the router to finish the setup
It has some nice features like multiple wifi bands as well as a guest band (for houseguest or a business) and remote access to your wifi network you can login from anywhere
I did not notice a significant upgrade in speed or connection from my Verizon modem/router
If you have an Ethernet cable modem only this would be a fine product to add wifi to your home. If you currently have a wifi router/modem already with reasonable speed this may not be a valuable add on.
I have not had the opportunity to test this out using several devices at the same time and verify the speed or connection
The router was pretty easy to setup. You will have to connect with a cable to the router to finish the setup
It has some nice features like multiple wifi bands as well as a guest band (for houseguest or a business) and remote access to your wifi network you can login from anywhere
I did not notice a significant upgrade in speed or connection from my Verizon modem/router
If you have an Ethernet cable modem only this would be a fine product to add wifi to your home. If you currently have a wifi router/modem already with reasonable speed this may not be a valuable add on.
I have not had the opportunity to test this out using several devices at the same time and verify the speed or connection
My Best Buy number: 0402259181
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
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Add high-end performance to your everyday life with the Google Pixel XL. A quad-core processor, a 5.5-inch LED screen and 32GB of memory ensure this phone is able to handle daily life, and Corning Gorilla Glass 4 protects the screen. Easy cloud storage ensures you never run out of space on the Google Pixel XL.
Customer Rating
5
Great new phone-easy IOS switch
on October 22, 2016
Posted by: hokie00
from MD
I really like this new Google phone
The screen size is a great jump from my iPhone 5s
The camera quality is much better and the fingerprint scanner (located on the back) works well and fast
The switchover was pretty easy from my old phone
And the new Google assistant easily competes with her apple counterpart
The screen size is a great jump from my iPhone 5s
The camera quality is much better and the fingerprint scanner (located on the back) works well and fast
The switchover was pretty easy from my old phone
And the new Google assistant easily competes with her apple counterpart
The screen size is large and very clear. A little too large for my back pocket. I enjoy it but will have to find a better way to carry it
The phone is very thin and light so doesn't feel bulky
There is no home button so that was an adjustment as was going back to android from iOS after a few years. But it was like riding a bike-I didn't forget
The phone is very thin and light so doesn't feel bulky
There is no home button so that was an adjustment as was going back to android from iOS after a few years. But it was like riding a bike-I didn't forget
There's a cool shake function for the camera that switches from front to back as well as several other motion functions you can setup
I also prefer the android keyboards over the apple ones (numbers on all the time)
I have been having trouble finding a variety of cases for the phone so far (likely due to the recent release ). I expect more to be available soon
Overall a great phone. Nice large screen for games videos or anything. New OS is fast and works very well. Screen setup is easy to navigate and the google assistant unlock function is cool. You can unlock the phone with your saved voice saying 'OK Google'
You will be happy with this phone if you are ready for a switch or an android upgrade
My Best Buy number: 0402259181
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Push your workout to the next level with Bose® SoundSport® Pulse wireless headphones. Designed with a built-in heart rate sensor, these in-ear headphones make it easy to track your performance without missing a beat of your music. Bose SoundSport Pulse wireless headphones stay secure with StayHear®+ Pulse tips designed for stability even during intense workouts. Connect to your device easily with Bluetooth® and NFC pairing, and use the inline mic and remote to control volume, skip tracks and take calls. Volume-optimized EQ gives you balanced audio performance at any volume. SoundSport Pulse wireless headphones are sweat and weather resistant to hold up to rigorous activity, and the lithium-ion battery provides up to 5 hours per charge. The Bose Connect app helps you manage your paired devices and gives you real-time heart rate readings. SoundSport Pulse wireless headphones can also be used with many popular fitness apps. Available in Power Red.
Customer Rating
4
Good Sound-Weird/new fit
on October 6, 2016
Posted by: hokie00
*The sound quality is great on these new Bluetooth headphones. *The sync and app worked immediately with no issue. (you need to download the Bose app to get some of the features like heart rate and settings).
*The earpiece is a different design than I am used too. They opted for a unique shape rubber insert to eliminate the need for an over ear clip.
*The button controls are easy to reach, and use.
*The earpiece is a different design than I am used too. They opted for a unique shape rubber insert to eliminate the need for an over ear clip.
*The button controls are easy to reach, and use.
The new fit takes a little getting used to but after a couple days seemed normal and comfortable. Unlike regular earbuds or other Bluetooth earbuds like the LG Tone these are bulkier at the ear but seem well supported and not likely to fall out. This is needed since all the electronics are housed at the ear rather than in a separate neck band. All in all I am pleased with the design because it is less likely to fall out like my LG Tones do when I am exercising on my back. Also the small connecting wire has a shirt clip to keep in place on your back (if you are shirtless this doesn't help)
They are an open design and allow background noise in. This is great if you are outside running or in a gym with friends and still want to hear surrounding noise. It is problematic if you are using them to cut the grass and are trying to drown out the noise.
The devise button controls are very simple. Only Volume up/down, Play/Pause, Skip, Call Answer. These last 3 are the same button and controlled by the number of times you press in a row. These are all on the connecting wire between ear buds. There are more controls/settings on the app.
The headphones come with a carrying case, micro-USB charging cable (no plug), and 3 sets of rubber inserts (S, M, L). Headphones and rubber inserts are all labeled with size and R/L since they fit specifically.
My Best Buy number: 0402259181
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Power through your weekly carpet clean with this Shark Rocket with DuoClean complete upright vacuum. It eliminates particles both large and small, and the deep-cleaning bristle brush breaks through embedded dirt to ensure a deeper clean. Plenty of space for debris ensures this Shark Rocket with DuoClean complete upright vacuum is practical for your everyday cleaning needs.BR>
Customer Rating
4
Versatile, Good Clean, Awkward Weigting
on September 22, 2016
Posted by: hokie00
This is a very good vacuum. I like it as a 2nd portable model, but not main stand-alone vacuum for my whole house.
I liked the Shark Rocket. It cleans well, has many attachments (not all held on the vacuum but in provided accessory bag), and can fit in many areas. If you are used to a typical upright vacuum like me this will feel a little awkward at first but after getting used to the different balance I imagine it well feel more comfortable. It is more like a portable/handheld vac than an upright but it does not work on battery, only plug. This vac is great for smaller spaces (area rugs, hallways, stairs, closets). The small head (about 8"x8") would take you a while to do a large carpeted room or floor. It also does not seem to have the same suction power you would expect out of a typical upright vac-which is why I would keep this as a 2nd vac for smaller/difficult areas. The vacuum fan, most parts and bulk of the weight are held at the handle and can be detached from the wand/base for handheld use or storage. The wand can also be detached from the base to use with attachments for added reach. So it is very versatile. One complaint my wife had was the fan/exhaust blow directly back at you from the handle and can get warm.
My Best Buy number: 0402259181
I would recommend this to a friend!
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hokie00's Review Comments
Pebble Steel Smartwatch: This waterproof smartwatch enables you to remotely manage music, play games, check scores, read texts and receive notifications and incoming call alerts from your compatible iOS or Android device.
Overall5 out of 5
5 out of 5does everything i need it to
By sherwood
from greene, ny
shows my sports scores, tracks my steps, and shows me my texts couldn't ask for anything more
hokie00
MD
IOS options
October 1, 2015
Do you know which iPhones this will work with? I saw a 6Plus had trouble. I currently have a 4 but am planning to upgrade.
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Add high-end performance to your everyday life with the Google Pixel XL. A quad-core processor, a 5.5-inch LED screen and 32GB of memory ensure this phone is able to handle daily life, and Corning Gorilla Glass 4 protects the screen. Easy cloud storage ensures you never run out of space on the Google Pixel XL.
Overall5 out of 5
5 out of 5Great new phone-easy IOS switch
By hokie00
from MD
I really like this new Google phone
The screen size is a great jump from my iPhone 5s
The camera quality is much better and the fingerprint scanner (located on the back) works well and fast
The switchover was pretty easy from my old phone
And the new Google assistant easily competes with her apple counterpart
The screen size is a great jump from my iPhone 5s
The camera quality is much better and the fingerprint scanner (located on the back) works well and fast
The switchover was pretty easy from my old phone
And the new Google assistant easily competes with her apple counterpart
The screen size is large and very clear. A little too large for my back pocket. I enjoy it but will have to find a better way to carry it
The phone is very thin and light so doesn't feel bulky
There is no home button so that was an adjustment as was going back to android from iOS after a few years. But it was like riding a bike-I didn't forget
The phone is very thin and light so doesn't feel bulky
There is no home button so that was an adjustment as was going back to android from iOS after a few years. But it was like riding a bike-I didn't forget
There's a cool shake function for the camera that switches from front to back as well as several other motion functions you can setup
I also prefer the android keyboards over the apple ones (numbers on all the time)
I have been having trouble finding a variety of cases for the phone so far (likely due to the recent release ). I expect more to be available soon
Overall a great phone. Nice large screen for games videos or anything. New OS is fast and works very well. Screen setup is easy to navigate and the google assistant unlock function is cool. You can unlock the phone with your saved voice saying 'OK Google'
You will be happy with this phone if you are ready for a switch or an android upgrade
hokie00
MD
New port/charging cable
October 23, 2016
This is hokie00 alter ego.
I wanted to add to my review something I had left out. Google went with a new charging plug/port for the Pixel. The port in the bottom of the phone is not micro-USB like most anroids before. It is a new port (Google-USB-C))about the same size as micro-USB or apple's lightning. It is reversible like the lightning plug so you won't have to worry about plugging it in the wrong way like the old apple plugs or USB.
The phone came with one wall charging cord and one connecting cord for USB. The wall charging cord has the same new connector - USB-C on both ends and the wall plug accepts the new connector only. The 2nd cord has the USB-C connector and a USB end. The phone also came with a USB to USB-C dongle in case you only wanted to carry one cable but wanted to be able to charge via USB or USB-C
I wanted to add to my review something I had left out. Google went with a new charging plug/port for the Pixel. The port in the bottom of the phone is not micro-USB like most anroids before. It is a new port (Google-USB-C))about the same size as micro-USB or apple's lightning. It is reversible like the lightning plug so you won't have to worry about plugging it in the wrong way like the old apple plugs or USB.
The phone came with one wall charging cord and one connecting cord for USB. The wall charging cord has the same new connector - USB-C on both ends and the wall plug accepts the new connector only. The 2nd cord has the USB-C connector and a USB end. The phone also came with a USB to USB-C dongle in case you only wanted to carry one cable but wanted to be able to charge via USB or USB-C
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Take your tunes anywhere with this LifeProof AQUAPHONICS speaker. This floating waterproof device is submersible in up to 1m of water for 30 minutes, and it deflects damage from snow, ice and dirt. Pair this LifeProof AQUAPHONICS speaker with up to eight Bluetooth devices, and use the included dry box for storing keys and cards.
Overall
2 out of 5
2 out of 5Speaker sound OK-some quirks/defects
By hokie00
from MD
The speaker sounds good, and has a good volume range getting loud enough for outside noise.
It has a good range on Bluetooth 70 feet or more in an office around walls for controls and volume adjustment.
It is a good size, a little heavy but feels sturdy for outside/beach/park type use. It's approximately 3"x3"x9". There is a compartment on the bottom for storage/plugs, and the charger/additional plug are located on one end. The opposite end has the power/lock buttons.
Controls are as follows:
End-Power and lock out toggle (to lock controls from accidental touch)
Other end-USB plug/charger for device/phone, DC Power charger for speaker, .8mm headphone jack audio in for device/phone play
Top-Bluetooth sync, skip back, play/pause, volume up, volume down, skip forward, change input (from Bluetooth to either jack)
Bottom-inside 4.7"x2"x0.5" closable storage compartment 2nd USB charger, 2nd .8mm headphone jack audio in for play.
The speaker comes with the user manual and the DC plug for charging.
Bluetooth sync worked easily.
The lock/unlock function is a nice feature to avoid unwanted song/volume/etc. changes
It has a good range on Bluetooth 70 feet or more in an office around walls for controls and volume adjustment.
It is a good size, a little heavy but feels sturdy for outside/beach/park type use. It's approximately 3"x3"x9". There is a compartment on the bottom for storage/plugs, and the charger/additional plug are located on one end. The opposite end has the power/lock buttons.
Controls are as follows:
End-Power and lock out toggle (to lock controls from accidental touch)
Other end-USB plug/charger for device/phone, DC Power charger for speaker, .8mm headphone jack audio in for device/phone play
Top-Bluetooth sync, skip back, play/pause, volume up, volume down, skip forward, change input (from Bluetooth to either jack)
Bottom-inside 4.7"x2"x0.5" closable storage compartment 2nd USB charger, 2nd .8mm headphone jack audio in for play.
The speaker comes with the user manual and the DC plug for charging.
Bluetooth sync worked easily.
The lock/unlock function is a nice feature to avoid unwanted song/volume/etc. changes
Issues I had with the speaker below.
The first thing I noticed is the compartment is very small, not large enough for most phones to keep inside (4.7x2x0.5) and won't fit an iPhone 5s w/o case. Also if you use the plugs in the compartment you have to leave it open and either on it's side/upside down making access to the top controls difficult. It looks like this is to store a very small wallet/money clip or license/credit cards/cash and not a phone or ipod.
The USB plugs are out only and used to charge, not play the device. So if you want to plug in your phone to charge you will have to also use the .8mm jack or Bluetooth in order to play (jack would be a problem, Bluetooth is fine)
The 2nd USB plug inside the compartment did not work to charge my phone, I assume this is just a defect in the model I received. I was unable to test the .8mm jacks since I don't have one and one was not provided. I'll assume they work and the function toggle turned off the Bluetooth so that seems to confirm it.
The outside USB charger works to charge but is not fast either with the speaker on battery or plugged in. It is probably just a little better than holding a charge while playing music or using your phone. My Pixel XL went from 66% to 72% in about 10-15 minutes while plugged in.
The speaker has a front/back speaker but only one of mine worked. I thought initially it was a stereo issue based on the music I was playing but I tried multiple sources for audio and it still only played through the one speaker. Again I'll assume this is isolated to the unit I received and not the way it is supposed to work. (I will contact the manufacturer about this issue and see how it is supposed to function. I will add/comment to this review with any update.)
Last issue is with the DC plug and only a minor compatibility issue and a suggestion for future models. The DC plug to charge the speaker is the small round type with a pin in the middle and not compatible with many other devices. It would be helpful if this was a micro-USB or USB-C, or Apple Lightning or other frequently used adapter type. The plug was provided so there's no issue using it, but it would be helpful if it was a type of plug/cord I already own in case of loss of damage.
The first thing I noticed is the compartment is very small, not large enough for most phones to keep inside (4.7x2x0.5) and won't fit an iPhone 5s w/o case. Also if you use the plugs in the compartment you have to leave it open and either on it's side/upside down making access to the top controls difficult. It looks like this is to store a very small wallet/money clip or license/credit cards/cash and not a phone or ipod.
The USB plugs are out only and used to charge, not play the device. So if you want to plug in your phone to charge you will have to also use the .8mm jack or Bluetooth in order to play (jack would be a problem, Bluetooth is fine)
The 2nd USB plug inside the compartment did not work to charge my phone, I assume this is just a defect in the model I received. I was unable to test the .8mm jacks since I don't have one and one was not provided. I'll assume they work and the function toggle turned off the Bluetooth so that seems to confirm it.
The outside USB charger works to charge but is not fast either with the speaker on battery or plugged in. It is probably just a little better than holding a charge while playing music or using your phone. My Pixel XL went from 66% to 72% in about 10-15 minutes while plugged in.
The speaker has a front/back speaker but only one of mine worked. I thought initially it was a stereo issue based on the music I was playing but I tried multiple sources for audio and it still only played through the one speaker. Again I'll assume this is isolated to the unit I received and not the way it is supposed to work. (I will contact the manufacturer about this issue and see how it is supposed to function. I will add/comment to this review with any update.)
Last issue is with the DC plug and only a minor compatibility issue and a suggestion for future models. The DC plug to charge the speaker is the small round type with a pin in the middle and not compatible with many other devices. It would be helpful if this was a micro-USB or USB-C, or Apple Lightning or other frequently used adapter type. The plug was provided so there's no issue using it, but it would be helpful if it was a type of plug/cord I already own in case of loss of damage.
All in all an okay speaker for sound quality, the compartment should be larger to handle a smart phone. The multiple plugs for charge/play are a nice feature but the plugs inside the compartment seem awkward to use.
hokie00
MD
OK Speaker Update
May 19, 2017
I offered above an amendment after issues I experienced after initial test.
Some items I was incorrect about in my review, others were not explained in the user manual (small paper copy included or full online version)
I was corrected in that the speaker only includes one speaker and not two (one on each side like I thought). The metal grill w/ LIFEPROOF on it is the speaker, the back side w/ nothing on it is just for show (no speaker).
I have also discovered an additional quirk that I thought was a defect. The full online manual explains that only one USB charger will work at a time. I initially thought the drybox USB did not work. In order to get the drybox USB to work you must toggle through to that audio source. So if you are playing through the drybox audio in cable you can charge using that USB. If you are playing through Bluetooth or the outside audio in cable you can charge using the outside USB. I had to find this by experiment. Because there is no readout (to keep the speaker waterproof I presume) there is difficulty telling which source your are on (other than when it's Bluetooth, the BT indicator is lit, and when it's one of the two cable audio in the BT is not lit.
As a result of this I also tested out both cable audio in jacks and they work fine. The drybox cable jack has little clearance so a thinner audio cable is recommended or just use the outside audio in.
As an additional note, the speaker is not waterproof when the Drybox is open (i.e. w/ cables sticking out) so you would probably not want to use it anyway unless you wanted to have two different device cables plugged in at once (which it can handle but only plays one at a time-source toggle)
The Bluetooth call/answer/hangup function works well on the speaker also. Simply press Play to answer & hold Play to hangup.
All in all a good speaker. (Better than I initially thought the first time testing it). The only changes I would like are to have two speakers (one each side) a larger Drybox (go up the the AQ11 when it's available) and a little better clearance on the audio in jack in Drybox for regular size cables.
I'd change this to a 3 Star instead if I could after the retest.
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hokie00's Questions
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What type of TV Stand with Mount should I purchase for an old 60" NEC Model PX-60XM5A TV?
Most stands have a max width & weight for tvs. A 60" should need a stand 55"+ or so. That model lists at 135 lbs so you will need that also.
Searching 60" tv stands should produce some results. There was a Walker BB58CSPBL listed on the BB site that should work. Wall mounts are a little different. Some stands come with them, some you will have to buy separate and they run about $100-$300 depending on features & size (full motion or fixed) Rocket-fish RF-TVMFM03 is a close match for full motion, and there is a floor mount BD Model: 9972. I hope this was helpful.
Searching 60" tv stands should produce some results. There was a Walker BB58CSPBL listed on the BB site that should work. Wall mounts are a little different. Some stands come with them, some you will have to buy separate and they run about $100-$300 depending on features & size (full motion or fixed) Rocket-fish RF-TVMFM03 is a close match for full motion, and there is a floor mount BD Model: 9972. I hope this was helpful.
10 years, 4 months ago
by
hokie00
MD