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    October 20, 2014
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    March 11, 2018
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CriticalEye's Reviews
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Make your home an internet haven with this versatile Linksys Velop wireless Wi-Fi system. Three identical tri-band dual-stream AC2200 routers, each equipped with a quad-core ARM Cortex-A7 processor, deliver lightning-fast internet. Equipped with Bluetooth 4.0/LE, this Linksys Velop wireless Wi-Fi system is simple to set up and pairs easily with computers, tablets and smart devices.
 
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Customer Rating
3 out of 5
3
Good concept, limiting app-only access needs work
on January 23, 2017
Posted by: CriticalEye
Linksys VELOP Whole-Home Mesh Wi-Fi Network System
Modular 3-Node Dynamic Tri-Band MU-MIMO Dual-Stream (2x2) Routers w/2 5GHz Bands & 1 2.4GHz Band
Model: WHW0303/AC6600
GOOD FOR
-4K Streaming
-Gaming
-Video Chats
-Smart Home Products
FEATURES
-6 built-in antennas & high-powered amps
-Auto-sensing network ports
-Velop App w/Spot-Finder Technology: recommends best placement for additional nodes: reducing latency, maximizing throughput, & improving range/signal strength to deliver the best performance.
-Linksys XConnect: ensures sensitive info like passwords are encrypted/secure when passed between nodes.
-Each node dedicates one 5GHz band for ‘backhaul’ ops (node linking), preventing signal loss & the 50% efficiency drop caused by a band that’s otherwise required to both receive & rebroadcast signal simultaneously.
-Integrates w/Amazon’s Alexa Virtual Personal Asst. to control your home network w/verbal commands, incl. toggling a Guest network on/off & requesting Wi-Fi networks' passwords, etc.
-Seamless Wi-Fi: Velop’s signal hand-off allows you to roam w/a connected smartphone/tablet/laptop from 1 node to another & from 1 end of the house or office to the other w/o interruption.
-Airtime/Device Prioritization/Load Balancing: allows multiple devices w/different Wi-Fi speeds to be treated uniquely, connecting each device at optimum speed so that faster devices transmit at faster speeds while slower devices don’t impede the speed of your Wi-Fi network.
-Dynamic Channel Selection: At setup, the Velop App dynamically scans available channels to select the best combo of bands/channels for optimum performance. The Channel Finder feature automatically finds the best channels on demand to resolve congestion/interference issues created by competing Wi-Fi signals.
-If any node loses connection to another node, the remaining nodes self-heal & re-establish Internet connection thru other nodes in the network.
-Wi-Fi-linked nodes can also be linked together by Ethernet cables to eliminate signal loss/distance restrictions.
-Auto Updates: Velop’s cloud service connection auto-monitors firmware status, conducting security/performance updates to prevent vulnerabilities from delayed manual firmware updates. Users can toggle off auto-update feature.
PROS
-Once into the App, setup is quick & easy. Uses Bluetooth to auto ID nodes to be setup & creates secure connection between mobile device & each node. Can set parental controls, guest network, & add & auto-fix nodes.
-Strong, reliable, secure, seamless connectivity w/excellent signal strength, range, speed, & overall performance right to edge of network. No disconnects so far.
-Expandability: I can continue to add more nodes to grow my mesh network, w/each node adding ~2k sq. ft.
-Aesthetics: Attractive hi-tech design/form factor offers sleek/compact/minimalist modular system w/small footprint
-Cable mgmt. system keeps excess wires out of sight for neat/clean look.
-Customer Support: 24/7
-Warranty: 3-yrs. vs. several competitors’ 1-yr. warranty
NEUTRAL
The 3rd VELOP node is in some cases overkill & likely needed only if you have a very large or multi-story home. Our humble abode did fine w/just 1 node (up to ~2k sq. ft.), & most homes can be easily blanketed w/impressive speeds w/just 2 nodes (up to ~4k sq. ft.). 3 nodes can cover up to ~6k sq. ft.
CONS
-It would be helpful & would save A LOT of time if the instructions made clear the necessity of logging out of your established Linksys acct. when replacing an existing Linksys Router. You have to create an entirely new acct. w/Linksys’ Velop router. Instructions should also advise that you’ll need your ISP settings, Username & Password BEFORE disconnecting your current setup as part of an “Items Needed” checklist prior to set up.
-Access/Navigation: Unfortunately, the Velop router can’t be accessed by PC. It can only be accessed via the new Velop Android or iOS App. I’d prefer to be able to login to a Linksys web-based interface via my PC, as I did w/my Linksys EA-9500/AC5400 MU-MIMO Router. With Velop, I’m forced to use Linksys’ mobile app which I find harder to navigate & less user friendly overall. Case in pt.: For security reasons, I don’t like storing/accessing important passwords/logins via my smartphone. I have a long, secure, unmemorizable Linksys acct. login password which I always cut & pasted via my PC whenever I accessed my Linksys EA-9500 router. But I no longer enjoy the same ease of login or security via the Velop smartphone app. A full-size browser window & a real keyboard is far more convenient than tapping away on a tiny smartphone. And the Linksys web-based interface for the EA9500 offered a much better display of all my options for easy adjustability/fine-tuning of my Wi-Fi network settings vs. having to drill down & search thru menus on the Velop mobile app.
-Connectivity: I’ve had major problems w/the Velop router re: printer sharing. The 2nd Velop node easily connects a 2nd desktop computer in a 2nd home office on the network, but the HP LaserJet printer that’s hardwired to that computer isn’t found/displayed. I still can’t even see that printer on the network even though the node easily finds & connects to a nearby HP Inkjet printer. This was never a problem w/the Linksys EA-9500/AC5400 Router.
-Parental Controls: These allow you to restrict access to inappropriate content, control usage, & block specific devices from accessing the Internet. But poor design of the app limits some features to very basic usage.
-Ports: Only 2 Ethernet ports per node can be very inconvenient. You can use a switch w/the Velop to expand the # of ports, but this defeats the node’s small footprint concept. There’s also no USB port for printer or storage.
-AC Power Adapter: The oversized white square adapter measures nearly 2½” x 2 ½”. Even when using 1 of the offset/gapped sockets on my APC power strip/surge protector, this brick obscures access to the next closest socket.
-Aesthetics: Each node’s mini-tower is white. I’d prefer an option in basic black &/or other colors to allow for color matching/blending w/individual room décor. For example: all the tech/telecom hardware in my home office, den, & study is in business black; so, the white mini-tower sticks out like a sore thumb.
My Best Buy number: 2172893138
I would recommend this to a friend!
User submitted photo
+1point
1of 1voted this as helpful.
 
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.
 
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Customer Rating
3 out of 5
3
Multi-Groomer All-in-One, Master of None?
on January 6, 2017
Posted by: CriticalEye
Philips Norelco Multigroom 7400 (7000 Series) Body Trimmer, Model #QG3398/69
All-in-One, Head-to-Toe Rechargeable Cordless Electric Grooming Kit for Face, Head, & Body:
6-Zone Total Grooming
Hair & Beard
Back & Shoulders
Chest & Abs
Underarms
Groin-area
Legs
Advanced lithium-ion rechargeable battery delivers max power for hi-performance cutting w/long-lasting run time (up to 1hr): fully charges in 1hr, cordless use only
Self-sharpening steel blades: designed to effectively cut each hair perfectly, preventing skin irritation
Turbo boost for faster results even w/dense hair
Premium leather bag: keeps everything together for easy storage
Shaving & Styling App: www.philips.com/groomingapp
Small plastic tube of lubricating oil
2yr Warranty (extended 6mo to 2½yr if you complete the registration)
Automatic Worldwide Voltage (100-240V)
Shower proof: use wet or dry, in or out of shower; simply rinse device under faucet for easy cleaning
Full-size metal guard trimmer: for neckline, sideburns, & chin
-Hair Clipping Comb: 18 length settings from 1/8-25/32” (3-20mm)
-Stubble Comb: 12 length settings from 3/64-15/32” (1-12mm)
-Detail Trimmer: for defining sharp lines around your beard or goatee
-Nose Trimmer: to trim unwanted hairs
-Bodygroom Shaver: for a smooth shave below the neck
-Body Trimming Comb:10 length settings from 1/8-15/32” (3-12mm)
Background
I’ve been using Norelco electric shavers since 1980. I currently use the following Philips/Norelco products:
-Philips Sonicare RS930 Toothbrush w/UV Sanitizer
-Norelco 1090XD Arcitec 9195XL Rechargeable Cordless Shaver
-Norelco T900 Rechargeable Cord/Cordless Beard/Mustache Trimmer
-Norelco 985RX Rechargeable Cord/Cordless Razor
-TS60 Norelco Fabric Steamer/Wrinkle Remover
Hair Type/Grooming Needs
I have fine, soft, straight hair rather than thick, coarse, or curly hair. I’m not a particularly hairy guy; so, I don’t grow a beard except when I’m on vacation.
Pros
Use: I use the shaver primarily w/the plastic beard shaving comb on those weekend nights when I want to create a “5 o’clock shadow” look for a barely-there beard (aka stubble).
Ergonomics: The appliance itself (w/o attachments) has a nice clean hi-tech look & form factor w/a modern, aesthetically-pleasing black & silver finish—likely made from a common thermoplastic polymer like ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene).
Wet/Dry: I like that I can use the device in the shower or over the sink. The razor cuts more effectively & w/more accuracy in dry use mode vs. wet use. I also like that the water-resistant design allows me to get the razor wet if need be when cleaning.
Cons
It some ways the new Multigroom 7400 seems like a step backwards in terms of simple functionality & design engineering. It’s as though marketing told engineering that they needed an all-purpose groomer for every occasion but then insisted on a low price-point & limited budget w/which to do it. This shaver/groomer tries to be all things to all people & yet it doesn’t really do any one thing exceptionally well. Like most low-cost all-in-one tools, it’s not going to yield professional-grade results. Yes, the new unit appears to be a much more full-featured device w/a lot more bells & whistles, & fancy attachments than Norelco’s older, ‘Plain Jane’ T900 Rechargeable Beard & Mustache Trimmer, which offered a single resident (irremovable) shaving head (along w/one built-in small sliding side head) & a single adjustable hair comb attachment. But the old T900 did the job better, at least for limited but key grooming techniques, like maintaining the ever-popular ‘stubble’ look, w/its simple, sturdy design. On a related note, as Norelco seems committed to offering a groomer w/multiple & interchangeable shaving heads, at least the solid ‘turn-&-lock’ shaving head mechanism is well-designed, even if the attachment tools themselves have a lot of room for improvement.
Power: Both the ‘Power’ & ‘Turbo’ buttons can be accidentally toggled off during shaving. Perhaps these buttons should’ve been recessed or rubberized to ensure they’re only activated/deactivated intentionally. At times, the unit seems underpowered, even on the ‘Turbo’ setting. Generally, the higher the RPM, the better the shave. I also don’t like that the device doesn’t ‘remember’ my ‘Turbo’ setting & requires me to manually engage this ‘boost’ for every shave.
Rechargeable Battery: I’m not getting the promised 1hr run time, even when I use the shaver in non-‘Turbo’-mode. Yes, there’s a low-battery status indicator light that alerts the user when the battery has only 10min charge remaining. There’s also a quick-charge feature that offers ~5min of run time from just 5min of charging. Still, it’s inconvenient that the razor can only be used in cordless mode; that is, it can’t be used at all while it’s charging. One of the reasons I wanted an electric groomer in the 1st place is that there are mornings when I don’t have time for traditional/manual razor blade shaving. Thus, there are mornings when I don’t have time to stop & recharge the unit, not even for a quick-charge. So, when the razor becomes fully discharged, I’d like to be able to use it in corded mode for a quick trim. My older (2001) Norelco T900 Rechargeable Cord/Cordless Beard & Mustache Trimmer allows me to plug in the razor & use it when I’m in a rush. Finally, these rechargeable batteries should be replaceable, because they always end up going bad over time. Respect the customer by not promoting built-in obsolescence.
Grooming Combs: Interchangeable plastic grooming combs slide onto guide grooves located on both sides of the handle. There are tiny plastic detents or latches (small catches that lock the variable movement of the mechanism) that allow the user to select from a range of hair length settings. Unfortunately, the stops are so minute & ill-defined that it’s too easy to skip past the desired notch when the user presses his thumb down & attempts to slide the selector up or down to his desired setting. The setting selector mechanism has a cheap, flimsy feel that makes the unit feel poorly engineered. The setting selector should instead be designed to offer solid, definite mechanical clicks that allow the user to dial up & lock in a preferred setting, much the way Norelco’s previous T900 Rechargeable Cord/Cordless Beard & Mustache Trimmer (2001 model) offered some 15yr ago. Finally, when I remove the plastic hair comb to blow or shake out the accumulated hair, I’m forced to reset the hair length selector to my desired setting every time. Not so w/the better design of the previous T900, which maintains my desired setting w/the patented zoom ring even as I pull off & push back on the hair comb.
Overall, again I prefer the 1-head razor like my old (2001) Norelco T900 Rechargeable (NiCad) Cord/Cordless Beard & Moustache Trimmer w/Accu-Control System. It combines a plastic grooved adapter w/a patented Zoom Ring w/9 pre-select settings: .06” (1.5mm), .10” (2.5mm), .16” (4mm), .22” (5.5mm), .30” (7.5mm), .38” (9.5mm), .48” (12mm), .60” (15mm), .72” (18mm).
Stand: It would be helpful if the shaver came w/a stand. Whether you want to store it off to the side, on your bathroom vanity countertop or down below, inside your vanity cabinet, to prevent dust accumulation, you’ll wish the unit came w/a stand so that it could sit upright.
Tote Bag: The included travel bag should’ve come w/interior pockets/compartments to secure & protect the razor’s multiple attachments. The instructions harp on not damaging the included accessories, yet the ditty bag allows the razor & all its accoutrements to bang & clang around in the bag like loose change, increasing the likelihood that the sensitive blades will be scratched & dulled & that the appliance itself will get scratched & scored.
Nose Hair attachment: It can feel odd to use. The cutting mechanism is on the side of the tube, which provides a weird angle for the user. I’m not sure it’s as effective as the round attachments offered w/other models.
Cleaning: The unit’s design can make it particularly difficult to keep clean. There’s no cleaning brush included in the kit as there has been w/other Norelco shaver models. This makes it a challenge to remove tiny hair clippings from certain trimmer heads. I’ve been using an Office Depot can of compressed air w/a small straw-like spray nozzle attached (primarily designed for use in cleaning computer keyboards, etc.) in an effort to keep the unit clean.
My Best Buy number: 2172893138
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
+2points
2of 2voted this as helpful.
 
Enjoy a compact tablet that fits neatly in your pocket with this Acer Iconia One 8-inch tablet. It includes a quad-core processor and 1GB of RAM that deliver powerful processing to play all your games and apps, and the 16GB of flash memory ensure this Acer Iconia One 8-inch tablet and store your files.
 
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Customer Rating
3 out of 5
3
Good starter tablet for kids, seniors, light users
on June 26, 2016
Posted by: CriticalEye
Product Model Description:
Iconia One 8 B1-850 Wi-Fi Tablet (White)
Features:
-OS (Operating System): Android 5.1 Lollipop
-CPU (Central Processing Unit): MediaTek Cortex A53 MTK MT8163 SoC Quad-Core: 1.3GHz, 64 bit
-GPU (Graphical Processing Unit): ARM Mali-T720 MP2, 2 Cores: 520MHz
-Storage: 16GB
-Supplemental Storage: MicroSD (Secure Digital) Slot
-RAM (Random Access Memory): 1GB, 800MHz, LPDDR3, Single Channel
-Size: 8.4”w x 5”h x .4”d; Weight: 12.7oz
-Display: 8” IPS (In-Plane Switching) 1280x800 pixels, 24 bit
-Camera: Front: 2MP/Rear: 5MP
-Power: Lithium-Polymer: 4600 mAh (milliampere-hrs.)/17.5Wh (Watt-hrs.)
-Connectivity: Wi-Fi (Wireless-Fidelity) 802.11 a/b/g/n; Bluetooth 4.0 w/A2DP, Micro USB 2.0
-GPS (Global Positioning System)
Overall:
Good low-end budget/starter tablet for kids, sr. citizens, & light users: email, web browsing, light gaming, videos, music, podcasts, & Facebook, etc. Poor audio/volume is the only FAIL. Use Gmail acct. to fully utilize features.
Price:
You get what you pay for, & you don’t pay much for this; so you don’t get a lot of bells & whistles. This tablet isn’t designed to compete w/hi-end Samsung Galaxy Tabs or Apple iPads. It’s not a laptop substitute or a tablet for getting serious work done. Maybe not worth $99.99 retail price, but definitely worth recent $69.99 sale price.
Pros:
-Packaging: appealing, simple, & minimalist
-OS: Android 5.1 makes transferring files (music, photos, etc.) to/from computer a breeze
-Storage: limited internal 16MB memory, but micro SD card slot allows for plenty of memory expansion
-Display: not a sharp hi-res 8” screen at 1280x800, but videos & colors look good, though black levels are poor
-Battery: good standby time; good for light use, incl. email & web browsing, but not for watching videos or gaming
-Browser: Chrome works fine for web browsing
-Keyboard: onscreen keyboard large enough & easy to use
-Startup: boots slow, but nice sleep/wake function, including EZ Wake-Up 5-finger tap feature
-System Doc feature: optimizes memory storage
-Kids Center app w/parental control: nice feature
-Acer Iconia Suite: not a bad add-on; especially useful is EZ Snap screenshot app
Cons:
-Setup: limited instruction booklet is fine for avg. user w/smartphone/tablet experience. But if I gave this to my mom, who’s still acclimating to mobile technology, she’d be lost. As this tablet is targeted towards children, beginners, & seniors, better basic instructions would be helpful for novices.
-Charging: Micro USB port awkwardly located at top of tablet making tablet use difficult while charging. Power cord is only 31” long, which is TOO SHORT to stretch from an AC outlet to even a low nearby platform.
-Audio/speaker: total FAIL! Rear single speaker produces tinny, muffled, distorted sound. No bass. Bottom edge rear speaker location means weak audio further muffled by user’s hand when holding in portrait or landscape mode. Even w/good headphones (std. 3.5mm jack located atop unit), audio is muted, even at max volume.
-Cameras: 5MP rear camera & especially 2MP front camera are abysmal. Terrible image quality. Front camera photos: heavy pixilation. Rear camera protrudes noticeably rather than being flush w/back.
-Form Factor: lightweight all-plastic case looks/feels cheap; notice some cracking/creaking noise in handling, though textured back provides handy non-slip grip
-Display: no ambient light sensor; so e-book reading at night in bed is too bright
-Connectivity: Wi-Fi spotty at times (on both 2.4GHz & 5GHz bands) even w/our new Linksys tri-band router.
-Bloatware: Acer should reduce bloatware: I was able to delete some, not all.
-Speed: full websites can be slow to load (not mobile-optimized sites) w/some stutter/judder during scrolling. Switching between apps & browser tabs may force content to reload. Sometimes noticeable lag between tapping screen item & tablet response. Larger apps like MS Word can take time to launch.
My Best Buy number: 2172893138
I would recommend this to a friend!
User submitted photo
+6points
6of 6voted this as helpful.
 
Your household wants to play, stream and work online all at once. With this Linksys router, you can do it all without buffering or other interruptions. Use the Smart Wi-Fi app to get started, control, and monitor your home network from anywhere.
 
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Customer Rating
3 out of 5
3
Great router if you can get past nightmare setup!
on June 21, 2016
Posted by: CriticalEye
Product Model Description:
Linksys EA7500 Next-Gen Max-Stream AC1900 MU (Multi-User)-MIMO (Multiple Input & Multiple Output) Dual-Band Wi-Fi (Wireless-Fidelity) Gigabit Router (1.9 Gbps)
Intro:
Based on the initial installation instructions from the quick-start sheet, I thought this would be a snap, as the guide appeared to be pretty cut & dried. As a precaution I downloaded & read the PDF manual to better prepare for setup & installation. Unfortunately, the installation did not proceed according to the instructions, AT ALL.
Setup Nightmare:
Warning!: If you have a modem/router or gateway, you'll likely need extra IT assistance. This router did not work with our DSL carrier-provided modem/router in accordance w/the Linksys instructions. And, yes, we knew to place our modem in a 'bridged' mode & to use our ISP/DSL connection settings on the router. But we were still forced to make multiple IT support calls to our DSL carrier, as we continued to suffer incessant router disconnects over several days. Other than the unit's generic flashing Linksys light, there was no diagnostic indicator as to WHY the connection was being repeatedly lost.
Ruling Out Other Variables:
Eventually, our DSL carrier even made an on-site service call & performed comprehensive diagnostic tests, but found no faults or errors w/our DSL line. (On background, U-verse is still not available on our particular street; we don't want a tacky satellite mounted on our roof; & we'll never again suffer w/our local cable provider, the abysmal Cox Communications.)
Resolution:
In the end, we performed yet another manual firmware update to the router & reset it to factory defaults. Though this didn't work in multiple previous attempts using the recommended auto-update feature & power cycle--the router, inexplicably, has worked flawlessly ever since the last reset several weeks ago.
2 More Cons:
-Unfortunately, the WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) would not work w/our newer networked HP printer, which required manually entering the long tedious password.
-Belkin failed to include a packing slip in/on the box of their Linksys router. This is minor but basic.
Some Pros:
-Generally, the Linksys Smart Wi-Fi Interface software & website are very good & easy to navigate. The ease w/which one can add other devices & view settings, etc., is a huge improvement over our older carrier-issued modem/router user interface. There are options, however, that only an IT expert can help with; so the avg. user likely would be lost w/those.
-Range is very good on both bands (2.4GHz & 5GHz).
-Stability: We have only 7 wireless devices connected at this moment, including PCs, printers, tablets, & cell phones, & all are receiving strong, reliable signals at good speed from the router.
Future:
We're looking forward to trying out the new Linksys EA9500-AC5400 Max-Stream Tri-Band Wi-Fi Gigabit Router (MU-MIMO) which we hope will incorporate some needed improvements over the EA7500.
My Best Buy number: 2172893138
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
User submitted photo
+1point
1of 1voted this as helpful.
 
This Sony BDPS7200 Blu-ray player features UHD 4K upscaling. To build a complete 3D home theater system, we recommend you purchase a 3D TV, 3D glasses designed for the TV, high-speed HDMI cable and an A/V receiver that is compatible with 3D products.
 
Customer Rating
3 out of 5
3
Good, but could be better
on December 2, 2014
Posted by: CriticalEye
Verified Purchase:Yes
Cheap build quality & feel, especially the flimsy disc drawer. If the player doesn't like the disc (even when Blu-ray disc is for the proper region & clean w/o scratch/blemish), then the player totally freezes, & no remote control function key can unfreeze it. Can't even turn off the player to reset it when it freezes; must 1st UNPLUG it from the power source & then reconnect. This 'freeze' has occurred w/2 different Blu-ray discs, but several other Blu-ray discs have played fine. The Fast Forward & Fast Rewind functions aren't nearly as user friendly or precise as the Click Shuttle Wheel & JOG function on our 14yr old Sony DVP-C675D DVD Player & Remote. The HDMI link between the Sony BDP-s7200 Blu-Ray Disc Player & our Sony X900B 4K TV provides a good picture.
My Best Buy number: 2172893138
My Best Buy number: 2172893138
I would recommend this to a friend!
+2points
7of 12voted this as helpful.
 
Google Chromecast: Easily stream your favorite apps and media to your TV via Wi-Fi with Chromecast. Use the included USB cable to plug the Chromecast into your TV, and control streaming content using your compatible smartphone, tablet or computer.
 
Customer Rating
4 out of 5
4
Enjoy viewing your smartphone content on your TV
on October 22, 2014
Posted by: CriticalEye
Verified Purchase:Yes
Via Chromecast, we enjoy viewing photos & watching videos on our home theater TV that are cast straight from our laptop & smartphones. And more Chromecast apps are coming online every month.
Note: TechRadar reported on 10/17/14 that Google Chromecast '2' is on its way based upon Google's latest FCC filing. Reportedly, although the new Chromecast will support 5GHz Wi-Fi, the tests carried out by the FCC were all at the 2.4GHz band, keeping the Wi-Fi speed to 802.11n rather than the faster 802.11ac option. We shall see.
My Best Buy number: 2172893138
My Best Buy number: 2172893138
I would recommend this to a friend!
+2points
2of 2voted this as helpful.
 
Protect your A/V components from power surges with this Panamax MR4300 9-outlet surge protector, which features a 1575-joule rating to keep your equipment safe. The 8' cable and low-profile design allow flexible placement.
 
Customer Rating
4 out of 5
4
Good basic surge protection & line management
on October 22, 2014
Posted by: CriticalEye
Verified Purchase:Yes
The Panamax MR4300 is ideal for small home theater systems. It's a line conditioner & power protector all in one. While there's really not much that can save your a/v system from a direct lightning strike, you certainly can protect your sensitive a/v electronics from damaging power spikes & from minor daily current fluctuations that harm your components' performance over time. Why would you NOT protect the considerable investment you've made in your a/v system? This power management unit can safeguard up to 9 components at once. It also provides a protected front-panel USB charger for your smartphone, tablet, or other portable device. 2 front-panel lamps illuminate your equipment rack when making adjustments. The aesthetically pleasing low-profile design of the unit makes it look like another a/v component in your rack/cabinet. $5,000,000 limited lifetime connected equipment protection policy & lifetime product warranty.
My Best Buy number: 2172893138
My Best Buy number: 2172893138
I would recommend this to a friend!
+5points
5of 5voted this as helpful.
 
Help bring your games, movies and music to life with this Sony SWFBR100/B 7-7/8" subwoofer that features 100W peak power to deliver a pounding bass response. Wireless connectivity lets you place it in a convenient location.
 
Customer Rating
4 out of 5
4
Limited, but does what it's designed to do
on October 21, 2014
Posted by: CriticalEye
Verified Purchase:Yes
Picked up this Sony SWF-BR100/B Wireless Subwoofer as part of a promo w/purchase of new Sony X900B 4K TV.
Easy setup:
1. Connect supplied audio cable to Wireless Transceiver.
2. Connect other end of audio cable to 'Audio Out' jack of TV.
3. Connect Wireless Transceiver to USB port of TV.
('Headphone/Audio Out' automatically set to 'Subwoofer'.)
4. Position Wireless Sub as desired; run power cord to nearest AC outlet.
This small 100W subwoofer, w/stylish piano black finish, is designed to pair w/2014 Sony 4K TVs & is controlled w/your Sony TV remote. In combo w/the Sony X900B's onboard "premium" forward-facing speakers, the wireless sub provides enough bass to give a fuller/richer sound, noticed especially when watching Blu-ray movies. It's best suited for a small living room or perhaps a master bedroom where a wired surround sound speaker system may not be practical due to expense/space constraints. This small sub won't make the room rumble w/thumping low-end frequencies, but it provides enough bass to make your a/v experience more enjoyable.
My Best Buy number: 2172893138
My Best Buy number: 2172893138
I would recommend this to a friend!
+3points
5of 7voted this as helpful.
 
Sony XBR-55X900B 4K Ultra HD TV: Bring the future of entertainment into your living room or home theater space with stunning Ultra HD resolution — 4x the resolution of Full HD. Whether you're viewing in 2D or 3D, enjoying a video game or taking advantage of the bevy of included Web features, this TV displays your content with incredible clarity.
 
Customer Rating
4 out of 5
4
Premium Quality 4K TV
on October 20, 2014
Posted by: CriticalEye
Verified Purchase:Yes
Picture quality is excellent, both technically & to the human eye. Samsung & LG may be catching up, but Sony still stands atop the mass market premium TV hierarchy based upon my extensive research of the 2014 4K models released by the Big 3. The X900B 55" is probably best suited for smaller living rooms or large bedrooms as its built-in front-facing speakers & promo-accompanied Sony wireless subwoofer don't pack enough punch to substitute for a wired surround sound speaker system in a full-size living room. (If you're going to spend this much for quality video, you'll want to complete the entertainment experience w/a comparable investment in quality audio. Otherwise, it's a bit lopsided.) The User Interface is a bit clunky, & the remote control looks & feels cheap. Overall, it's a great interim TV which we'll eventually move to the master bedroom & replace w/one of the new, ultra-thin OLED TVs as OLED screen reliability improves & prices descend.
My Best Buy number: 2172893138
My Best Buy number: 2172893138
I would recommend this to a friend!
+27points
28of 29voted this as helpful.
 
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Set your imagination free on the most powerful Surface Laptop, designed to light up the best of Windows 11. Boundary-pushing design lets you flex your creative muscle on the sleek 14.4“⁴ touchscreen, making seamless transitions from laptop to entertainment-ready stage to portable creative canvas, complete with built-in storage and charging for Surface Slim Pen 2* under the keyboard. Enjoy smooth gameplay, and draw, sketch and take notes like you would on paper on the bright, vibrant 120Hz display. Run intensive applications and get things done anywhere with all-day battery life, and get inspired with graphics power that exceeds your expectations. Elevate your entertainment with Quad Omnisonic speakers, featuring large bass and immersive Dolby Atmos. Stay in the flow, be inspired and get closer to what you love.
 

Does the Surface Laptop Studio have USB ports? If so, how many and of what type?

It has 2 USB-C ports on the left side.
2 years, 6 months ago
by
CriticalEye
 
The HP OfficeJet Pro 9025e delivers the fastest speeds, 500-sheet paper capacity, and up to 2x faster scan speeds. It includes the optional HP+ Smart Printing System that keeps itself up to date, secure, and ready to print from virtually anywhere at any time. Optional HP+ system requires an HP account, internet connection, and use of only Original HP Ink for the life of the printer.
 

Can it print wireless from a Samsung Galaxy Book S

As long as your device can download the HP Smart App, you should be fine. The App will let you know if the device is incompatible. I tried it on an old Samsung Note 3 and it let me know the device was too old.
Hope that helps.
3 years ago
by
CriticalEye
 
The HP OfficeJet Pro 9025e delivers the fastest speeds, 500-sheet paper capacity, and up to 2x faster scan speeds. It includes the optional HP+ Smart Printing System that keeps itself up to date, secure, and ready to print from virtually anywhere at any time. Optional HP+ system requires an HP account, internet connection, and use of only Original HP Ink for the life of the printer.
 

Does software include security software

The unit doesn't come with software. You just download the HP Smart App.
Hope that helps.
3 years ago
by
CriticalEye
 
Protection for every home and family. Capture the details in full 1080p HD video for a clearer picture, day or night. Spend less time recharging with 6 months of battery life*. Connects directly to Wi-Fi without the clutter of extra gear. The Arlo Essential is wire-free and weather-resistant to deliver fast, easy installation and flexibility to get the perfect camera view. With the integrated spotlight, see important features like faces and licenses plates in full color, at night with color night vision. Ward off unwanted guests by triggering the siren or integrated spotlight automictically or manually from the Arlo App. Receive smarter alerts for people, vehicles and packages and take quicker action like sound the siren, call a friend or dial emergency services with the included trial of Arlo Secure**. Works with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit*** and Samsung SmartThings.
 

How long is the power cord? Or is that a extra

There is no power cord. I comes with a short charging cord.
3 years, 5 months ago
by
CriticalEye
 
Protection for every home and family. Capture the details in full 1080p HD video for a clearer picture, day or night. Spend less time recharging with 6 months of battery life*. Connects directly to Wi-Fi without the clutter of extra gear. The Arlo Essential is wire-free and weather-resistant to deliver fast, easy installation and flexibility to get the perfect camera view. With the integrated spotlight, see important features like faces and licenses plates in full color, at night with color night vision. Ward off unwanted guests by triggering the siren or integrated spotlight automictically or manually from the Arlo App. Receive smarter alerts for people, vehicles and packages and take quicker action like sound the siren, call a friend or dial emergency services with the included trial of Arlo Secure**. Works with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit*** and Samsung SmartThings.
 

Can you add an Arlo Pro 3 camera to an Arlo essential camera set up?

Yes if you have the smart hub
3 years, 5 months ago
by
CriticalEye
 
Bose Sleepbuds II deliver relaxing sounds that help you fall asleep, and use Bose noise-masking technology so you stay asleep. Tiny, wireless Sleepbuds II are designed for comfort with sleep technology clinically proven to help you fall asleep faster. Sleepbuds II play content only from the Bose Sleep app, which gives you full control of the Sound Library and helps you personalize features. Discover tranquil tones and soothing sounds from nature. Or, use Bose noise-masking sounds to cover unwanted nighttime noise. Download your favorite sounds directly to Sleepbuds II, control volume, and set a personal wake-up alarm. Sleepbuds II feature proprietary eartips made of soft silicone for a comfortable, secure fit. Sleep on your back or side, or rollover during the night, they’ll stay put. Get up to ten hours of battery life from a single charge, enough for a full night’s sleep — and three additional charges from the portable case.
 

I live in an apartment with the loudest bunch of people above me,Do you think it might mask a dog's bark?Or loud thuds? Thanks!

I have loud screaming children & mowers nearby on a regular basis. These definitely help mask those sounds enough to sleep & study through.
Not sure what you can do about the loud thuds though as that's something you usually feel as well as hear.
Hope that helps :-)
3 years, 6 months ago
by
CriticalEye
 
Bose Sleepbuds II deliver relaxing sounds that help you fall asleep, and use Bose noise-masking technology so you stay asleep. Tiny, wireless Sleepbuds II are designed for comfort with sleep technology clinically proven to help you fall asleep faster. Sleepbuds II play content only from the Bose Sleep app, which gives you full control of the Sound Library and helps you personalize features. Discover tranquil tones and soothing sounds from nature. Or, use Bose noise-masking sounds to cover unwanted nighttime noise. Download your favorite sounds directly to Sleepbuds II, control volume, and set a personal wake-up alarm. Sleepbuds II feature proprietary eartips made of soft silicone for a comfortable, secure fit. Sleep on your back or side, or rollover during the night, they’ll stay put. Get up to ten hours of battery life from a single charge, enough for a full night’s sleep — and three additional charges from the portable case.
 

Can they play the music on your phone

They don't play music that's stored in your device. You can select sounds & study-type music from a library available within the free App.
Hope that helps :-)
3 years, 6 months ago
by
CriticalEye
 
MX Master 3 is instant precision and infinite potential. Designed for designers and engineered for coders, it’s our most advanced Master Series mouse yet. App-specific button customizations speed up your workflow in the apps you use most and the electromagnetic MagSpeed wheel enables fast noiseless scrolling. Your hand rests perfectly on the sculpted form and allows you to work comfortably for hours across multiple computers and operating systems in one fluid workflow. Ready for video calls - predefined settings for Microsoft Teams and Zoom let you instantly mute and Start/Stop your video call. With MX Master 3, you can truly master what you make.
 

Bluetooth is turned off on our work computers. Will this operate as a wired mouse with the USB cable attached or is it strictly for charging

The cable is just for charging, but the USB receiver will allow connection in lieu of Bluetooth
4 years, 6 months ago
by
CriticalEye
 
Introducing MX Keys, an advanced wireless illuminated keyboard crafted for efficiency, stability, and precision. Perfect Stroke keys are shaped for your fingertips and increased key stability reduces noise while optimizing responsiveness. Tactile reference for hand positioning makes it easy to stay oriented and in your flow. The backlit keys light up the moment your hands approach, and automatically adjust to suit changing lighting conditions. With MX Keys you can truly master what you make.
 

What is the length of the keyboard

~17"
4 years, 6 months ago
by
CriticalEye
 
Sleep better. Cover unwanted noise with soothing sounds. Bose noise-masking sleepbuds™ are uniquely designed for sleep. They don’t stream music or have acoustic noise cancellation. Instead, these tiny, wireless earbuds use pre-loaded, soothing sounds to cover up unwanted noises, so you can get to sleep — and stay asleep. Plus, unlike traditional earplugs, they’re super comfortable and made to stay in place all night long, even if you sleep on your side. 1. Choose your sound, 2. Set an alarm, 3. Fall asleep without unwanted noise.
 

How will these work against Smoke Detectors etc in case of emergencies?

The sound volume is customizable, so you could test them against any noise you want to be aware of. However, even with the volume up, I've had no trouble hearing loud sounds. Hope that helps.
5 years, 9 months ago
by
CriticalEye