gadgetguy11's stats
- Review count239
- Helpfulness votes1,889
- First reviewAugust 8, 2014
- Last reviewAugust 25, 2024
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- Average rating4.7
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- Answer count78
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- First answerJanuary 29, 2016
- Last answerDecember 30, 2021
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Start your own personal music festival with this Sony portable Bluetooth speaker. Its Bluetooth and NFC connectivity provide wireless access to your favorite music playlists, and its durable and rustproof exterior keep it safe at the beach. This Sony wireless Bluetooth speaker includes intuitive LIVE SOUND speakers that create a three-dimensional experience.
Customer Rating
5
Sony SRS-XB41 The. Reference. Standard.
on March 25, 2018
Posted by: gadgetguy11
from Lexington, KY
INTRODUCTION:
Sony SRS-XB41 reigns supreme as the Best of the Best portable wireless Bluetooth speaker. This amazing performer is in a class by itself, literally inventing a new category of an interactive party speaker, while surpassing all competitors with Extra Bass & performance enhancements.
LIKES:
1- “Extra Bass”, a Sony exclusive feature, is selectable by the free Sony Music Center App. It is activated by default, and the sound enhancement is stunning!
2- “Live Sound Mode” is also selectable by free Sony Music Center App. It produces an ultra wide spread sound that puts you in the middle of the band. The musical instruments sound like they are across the room with you in the center! Extra Bass is integrated into this mode, so you not only get a room full of sound, you get strong bass, too. I recommend the “Live Sound Mode”, which includes “Extra Bass".
3- A Graphic Equalizer is built in the aforementioned free Sony Music Center App. Tweak the bass punch & high frequency clarity precisely to your satisfaction. This works in addition to “Extra Bass” & “Live Sound Mode”.
4- “Wireless Party Chain” is another amazing feature: 100 Sony speakers with Party Chain can be wirelessly connected together. You can mix & match any of the Sony models with Part Chain: SRS-XB41, SRS- XB31 & SRS- XB21.
5- “Party Booster" interactive feature turns this speaker into a portable drum kit, percussion kit or customized sound. Tap on 5 sides of this speaker & it rocks out with drums, percussion, cowbell, etc. The sounds are amazing; imagine a party full of revelers, each beating their own drum kit on one of these speakers & joining together with interactive fun!
6- Dynamic LED & strobe party lights flash to the beat (if you select them to) - they even flash to the beat of Party Booster! These interactive lights wrap around both sides of the speaker for maximum dramatic impact.
7- Features Sony LDAC (also called High-resolution audio). LDAC is a Sony audio coding technology that enables clear, High-Resolution Audio, even over Bluetooth. It supports SBC / AAC / LDAC codecs, so you enjoy premium sound from a variety of devices from virtually any source.
8- Bluetooth Version 4.2 Wireless Range is a whopping 98 feet.
9- Dual charging option provides a choice: Charges using any standard 5 Volt / USB adaptor with included USB to Micro USB cable. No special adaptor to carry. For faster charging, a high power 5 Volt / 3.0 Amp power adaptor is also included to juice up the SRS-XB41 quickly.
10- The mammoth internal Rechargeable Battery provides up to 24-Hour Battery Life - Party all Day & Night!
11- Standard USB 5.0 Volt Output Jack is built in to power or charge devices, such as your phone, from this powerhouse speaker.
12- Full onboard controls on top of the speaker control everything without fiddling with the sound source. No interruptions to the party!
13- External 3.5mm input jack for connecting to any so equipped source (i.e. Echo Dot & just about any imaginable music source).
14- Microphone built-in; this speaker serves as a speakerphone.
15- Fully Waterproof with IP67 rating to 3.3 feet.
16- NFC technology for one-touch pairing with equipped devices.
17- Sony packed a lot of sound in these dimensions: 11 1/2” W X 4 1/8”H X 4 1/4”D.
18- Lightweight: 3 pounds 5 ounces.
19- I selected the Red speaker; it is available in Red, Blue & Black. The color is actually Maroon; it is not a bright red; it is an elegant color (see photos).
20- Very attractive curved shape; the lights disappear as stylish bands when turned off.
DISLIKES:
NONE!
CONCLUSION:
Sony SRS-XB41 earns my highest recommendation & reigns supreme as The. Reference. Standard.
My Best Buy number: 0213946812
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+6points
10of 14voted this as helpful.
Tune out the world with these Sony headphones. Their Wireless Noise Cancellation feature minimizes ambient noise, so you can fully enjoy your content, and the integrated microphone allows you take calls and use your smartphone's voice assistant. These Sony headphones have a swivel design that makes them easy to store in tight spaces.
Customer Rating
5
Ultra Light = Ear Delight
on March 21, 2018
Posted by: gadgetguy11
from Lexington, KY
INTRODUCTION:
The Sony WH-CH700N/L are amazingly light weight & comfortable noise canceling headphones. I chose the blue model because I prefer bold colors & they look fantastic (see attached photos). I trusted Sony would deliver very good sound for the money.
As a point of reference, I own a variety of premium wireless headphones & primarily listen to Master & Dynamic - MH40 Over-the-Ear Headphones, which weigh 0.7937 pounds, but feel much heavier. They cost 2X the cost of these Sony headphones. These Sony WH-CH700N/L weigh only 0.53 pounds but feel much lighter.
COMFORT:
Comfort reigns supreme, due to the pillowy soft ear cushions, the gentle, deeply padded head support & the light weight build.
BASS:
Sony has mastered the art of boosting bass with minimum distortion & these headphones are a perfect example: "Clear Bass +10" produces dynamic deep bass at a 10dB gain without distortion, even at a high volume SPL's. Great bass punch with no audible distortion!
THE APPS:
The Sony Connect App is very useful for selecting "Clear Bass +10" bass boost, choosing DSP for one of several venues & offers a graphic equalizer for customizing your sound. I prefer "Clear Bass +10" "ON" + tweak the high frequencies with EQ & leave the DSP venues "OFF". The Sony Connect App works in conjunction with the Sony Music Center App. Both Apps add critical features to optimize & custom tailor the sound, and each App has a 1-click transfer to lead you directly to the other App. Without the Sony Connect App & the Sony Music Center App the headphones earned 4 Stars; after a little listening & tweaking both Apps to optimize the audio, these headphones earned a resounding 5 Stars!
NOISE CANCELATION:
Noise Cancelation is the only feature that works well, but I would prefer user adjustable levels, rather than the headphones analyzing the noise source & canceling it at levels it determines are appropriate. This is strictly personal preference - I am not taking away a star because the system cancels noise & is very effective; I simply prefer to be in control.
BATTERY LIFE:
Impressive! Up to 35 hours of playback & 200 Hrs of standby time.
Every 10-minutes of charging yields 1 hour of music playback.
Every 10-minutes of charging yields 1 hour of music playback.
FOLD AWAY DESIGN:
The headphones swivel for easy & fast storage. Great when you are deboarding a plane & you are in a rush to reach your connecting flight.
DSEE:
The Sony exclusive Digital Sound Enhancement Engine (DSEE) restores the high frequencies to the rich detail before compression. Toggle via the aforementioned App. The improvement is stunning!
BLUETOOTH OR HARD WIRE:
The Bluetooth connection with Sony DSEE sounds awesome; you also have the option of directly connecting to a music source via the included 3.5mm cable.
MICRO USB:
These headphones include a USB to Micro USB cable for charging. Micro USB is great because it is used by most every manufacturer. It means if you forget the cable on a trip, you can pick up a cable anywhere.
CONTROLS:
The controls on the WH-CH700N/L are super intuitive, so you do not need to remove them from your head to skip a song or pick up a phone call.
VOICE COMMANDS:
One touch & you are speaking to your phone's assistant & can make calls clearly & easily.
RECOMMENDATION FOR IMPROVEMENTS:
1- These are such great travel headphones, a travel case should be included. They swivel to a small package; they need a small but tough zipper case. I am in the market to buy one now, but it should have been included.
2- Add Noise Reduction Option Settings to the Sony Connect App for greater flexibility.
CONCLUSION:
ULTRA LIGHT = EAR DELIGHT!!
I listen to the Sony WH-CH700N/L for more hours than any other headphones I own & forget I am wearing them. They earn 5 Stars & my Highest Recommendation!!
I listen to the Sony WH-CH700N/L for more hours than any other headphones I own & forget I am wearing them. They earn 5 Stars & my Highest Recommendation!!
My Best Buy number: 0213946812
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+36points
52of 68voted this as helpful.
Nest Doorbell (Wired) lets you know who’s there, so you never miss a thing. It replaces your existing wired doorbell and delivers HD video and bright, crisp images, even at night. It’s designed to show you everything at your doorstep — people head to toe or packages on the ground. And with 24/7 streaming, you can check in anytime. Or go back and look at a 3-hour snapshot history to see what happened.*
Customer Rating
5
Stunning Video with Google Home Support
on March 19, 2018
Posted by: gadgetguy11
from Lexington, KY
I upgraded our home security cameras in 2018 from Drop Cam Pro to Nest Indoor IQ & Outdoor IQ Cameras with Facial Recognition & Familiar Face Alerts. I was thrilled to learn about "Hello", a smart doorbell with the same features when Nest announced it last Fall. It is even better than I had hoped!
THE GREAT:
1- Ridiculously SHARP Image! Show this to your friends who own the "other" smart doorbell - and catch their mouth - open disbelief when they see the clear image without the delay! I attached an image captured from my front porch.
2- Facial Recognition works!
3- Familiar Face Alert works!
4- Beautiful integration with Google Home. When anyone presses the doorbell button, all Google Home devices announce "Someone is at the front door!", at the same time their photo appears on your cellphone. Once you enter the guest's name as a Familiar Face on the app, the doorbell will announce them by name at the door! "Hello" even announces the names of multiple guests.
5- Perfect Nest integration with all Nest Cameras. Even shares the Familiar Faces with the master library that includes all Nest IQ Outdoor & Indoor Cameras & pulls faces from that established library & vice versa.
6- Optional Aluminum 15 degree angled wedge allows you to point doorbell away from a wall. See my photos showing this in use & showing the resulting image.
7- Microphone is very sensitive & picks up whispers!
8- Best looking Smart Doorbell on the market.
9- Includes push-on quick connects to simplify installation.
10- Video compression is selectable with 4) settings, 800 to 2,000 Kbps of upload bandwidth. This is a huge benefit: select the highest quality / lowest compression for the best quality image if your WiFi can support the bandwidth. On the other extreme, select the low end (800 Kbps) to use less WiFi bandwidth - or 2 levels in between. Nest IQ Cameras share this great benefit.
11- Easy installation with YouTube Video & photos make this a fun and quick install, whether you have ever installed a doorbell before.
12- Masonry drill bit is included if you need to drill into brick or stone.
13- 1600 X 1200 DPI HD UXGA image, up to 30 Frames / Second, H.264 encoding & HDR.
14- Ultra wide 160 Degree diagonal field of view. Very wide, very high floor to ceiling to see packages on the porch, all clear with an 8X zoom.
15- Speaker quality is sharp and clear. It does not sound like a tin horn.
16- Narrower than most smart doorbells allows placement in tight quarters. Dimensions: 4.6" Tall X 1.7" W X 1.0" Deep. The 1.7" width was a big help for me. See my photos of the installation.
17- Works with any doorbell transformer measuring 10V to 24 V.
18- Brightest IR for Night Vision that really lights up a large area without the extreme red IR used by lesser cameras. These are 850nm infrared LED's, same as on Nest IQ Cameras. 850nm LEDs produce a very slight red glow when operating, which is visible to the human eye.
19- Other Nest products set up "Hello" doorbell for you! They literally do all of the Wi-Fi settings, even the password. It took about 30 seconds for another Nest product to set everything up!
20- The delay that has been an issue with other doorbells can be greatly reduced or even eliminated on "Hello". See point # 10 "Video Compression" in this review. The 4) selectable quality settings can be used to reduce bandwidth requirement, which greatly reduces the "spinning wheel" & makes the visitor pop up faster after a guest rings the doorbell.
THE LESS THAN GREAT:
Absolutely NONE!! Hello is a Great security & convenience appliance.
CONCLUSION:
Nest "Hello" raises the bar for Smart Doorbells to a level unattainable by any competitor today & earns my HIGHEST RECOMMENDATION!!
My Best Buy number: 0213946812
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+89points
130of 171voted this as helpful.
Only at Best Buy Keep an eye on what matters most with this wireless SimpliSafe security system. It provides full-time professional monitoring of your home's surroundings, and it detects intruders with advanced sensors to keep your family safe. This SimpliSafe security system continues working for 24 hours when the power fails for added protection.
Customer Rating
4
#1 User Friendly Monitored Home Security System
on March 14, 2018
Posted by: gadgetguy11
from Lexington, KY
The latest "Shield" security system from SimpliSafe is without a doubt the easiest & the best looking alarm system I have installed; and I have installed over a dozen systems to $5,000 & up from various manufacturers in homes, including in my own home. This newly released completely wireless model is ultra modern in appearance & in operation. It literally talks you through each step by voice & by text on the hand held, easy to read keypad.
Shield includes: 1) Keypad, 1) Base Station, 2) Motion Sensors, 6) Door/Window Sensors & 1) Key Fob. You can add some very cool & useful accessories for little extra money, i.e. extra sirens, CO2 Detectors, Smoke Detectors, Water Sensors, Freeze Sensors & SimpliCams (Security Cameras).
The latest SimpliSafe Shield features smaller, better looking hardware, that wirelessly connects with sensors farther away than the previous model & sends & receives signals faster than before. This means you are protected even in a very large home without signal disconnection issues. All devices include batteries; the entire system continues to operate in the event of a power outage.
To begin, simply pull a plastic separator out of each device that blocks battery power until you set it up & follow the voice & text instructions (you do not need to read a manual), enabling the internal batteries to connect & you are off!
You name each sensor so Shield can identify it. You press the button to test each sensor. There are no holes to drill; the Keypad & all Sensors are mounted with adhesive tape, included (with spares!).
The rubberized keys on the Keypad are just the right size, not tiny buttons like most keypads, and look & feel great. The keypad display area serves as a rocker switch: up/down/right/left.
Menu on the Keypad opens up settings, where you can customize chime volume, voice volume, alarm volume, entry delay / exit delay / alarm off time, just to name a few.
The Base Station features a most impressive swirling, revolving series of LED's at the base that can be defeated for a hidden installation, or activated to draw attention & to provide exit safety.
Once setup, you can activate & connect a choice of monthly monitoring service levels online or via telephone. A major benefit is: there are no contracts. Monitoring is state-of-the-art, connecting to your SimpliSafe Shield by both Wi-Fi (faster) & Cellular (back-up if your Wi-Fi cable is defeated or fails). You can specify which alarm triggers get emergency response & which you only receive private notification. And you can change notification choices as often as you prefer.
SimpliSafe has built a dynamite Monitored security system & the "Shield" model includes the most sensors of any model; the included sensors will be needed in virtually all installations, so the Shield is an outstanding value.
SELF MONITORING:
For those who prefer self monitoring, SimpliSafe delivers this option by you paying for monthly monitoring & you select phone call, email & / or text options. You can choose not to alert the authorities & by this method you have set up a self monitoring system, complete with battery back-up (up to 24 Hr on the Main Unit), Wi-Fi & Cellular connection to the Monitoring Station, who will alert you if any sensor is triggered.
Can You Avoid Paid Monitoring?
You can use the SimpliSafe Shield as a "local" unmonitored security system; basically a box that screams at the potential intruder & that is all. You cannot activate the built-in Wi-Fi or Cellular to contact you; it is fixed & pre-programmed to only contact the Simple-Safe Monitoring Station.
CONCLUSION:
SimpliSafe offers modern hardware that beautifully blends in your home setting. It is ultra reliable, easy to set-up & friendly to use on a daily basis. Monitoring is reasonable & there are no contracts.
However, if you prefer a security system where the alarm will notify you with an alert (self monitor) without paying for monthly monitoring, look further; SimpliSafe cannot send a signal without paying for monthly monitoring. Some competitive security systems are specifically made to do just this. That is not made clear on the box nor in the advertisements; for this, I deduct 1 star from a perfect 5.0.
Monthly security monitoring offers many benefits; if an intruder damages the keypad, the signal is still sent to the station via Wi-Fi or cellular. Broken pipes? A great item for silent monitored alert. A local, unmonitored alarm that screams but does not alert anyone may be practical if your neighbors hear it & if they choose to take action; that is not a chance I choose to take.
Best reason to pay for monthly monitoring? Peace of Mind!! For that reason alone, my home is monitored & I recommend you monitor yours, as well. I find SimpliSafe Shield to be a Top Tier Security System for those who choose to hire a professionally monitoring company to protect their family & their belongings. This system is a bargain & is a delight to use. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
My Best Buy number: 0213946812
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+61points
87of 113voted this as helpful.
Dance the night away with this Sony portable wireless speaker. Its interactive Party Booster sound effects and multicolor lights bring another dimension to the music, and its Party Chain technology lets you wirelessly connect up to 100 speakers. This Sony portable wireless speaker is resistant to rust, dust and waterproof for reliable use outdoors.
Customer Rating
5
Sony With Extra Bass is Your Ticket to the Party!
on March 11, 2018
Posted by: gadgetguy11
from Lexington, KY
Sony SRS- XB31 is a technological marvel disguised as a powerhouse portable speaker! This jewel FAR EXCEEDS my expectations!
LIKES:
1- "Live Sound Mode" selectable by free Sony Music Center App, produces an ultra wide spread sound that puts you in the middle of the band. I kid you not, instruments sound as though they are across the room & you are in the middle! Extra Bass is integrated into this mode, so you not only get a room full of sound, you get strong bass, too.
2- "Extra Bass" is also selectable by free Sony Music Center App. It is on by default, and is absolutely fantastic! I prefer "Live Sound Mode", which includes "Extra Bass".
3- Rechargeable Battery features up to 24 Hour Battery Life - Party all Day & Night!
4- Fully Waterproof with IP67 rating to 3.3 feet.
5- "Wireless Party Chain" is another amazing feature: 100 of these speakers can be wirelessly connected together.
6- "Party Booster" feature turns this speaker into a portable drum kit, percussion kit or customized sound. Tap on 5 sides of this speaker & it rocks out with drums, percussion, cowbell, etc. The sounds are amazing; imagine a party full of revelers, each beating their own drum kit on one of these speakers!
7- Dynamic LED & strobe party lights flash to the beat (if you select them to) - they even flash the beat of Party Booster! The lights even wrap around both sides of the speaker!
8- I selected the blue speaker; it is available in Red, White, Blue & Black. I was delighted to see the beautiful lustrous electric blue. So many speakers offer dull colors. Not this one!
9- External 3.5mm input jack for connecting to any so equipped source (i.e. Echo Dot & just about any imaginable music source).
10- Features Sony LDAC (also called High-resolution audio). LDAC is a Sony audio coding technology that enables clear, High-Resolution Audio, even over Bluetooth. It supports SBC / AAC / LDAC codecs, so you enjoy premium sound from a variety of devices from virtually any source.
11- Bluetooth Wireless Range is 98 feet.
12- Lightweight: 2 pounds.
13- Easy size to carry dimensions: 9.1" W X 3.4"H X 3.4"D.
14- Charges using any standard 5 Volt / USB adaptor with included USB to Micro USB cable. No special adaptor to carry.
15- Microphone built-in; this speaker serves as a speakerphone.
16- NFC technology for one-touch pairing with equipped devices.
17- Full onboard controls on top of the speaker control everything without fiddling with the sound source. No interruptions to the party!
18- Graphic Equalizer is built in the aforementioned free Sony Music Center App. Tweak the bass punch & high frequency clarity precisely to your satisfaction.
19- Standard USB 5.0 Volt output jack is built in to power or charge devices, such as your phone, from this powerhouse speaker.
20- Very attractive curved shape.
DISLIKES:
NONE!
CONCLUSION:
Sony SRS- XB31 FAR EXCEEDS my expectations & earns my HIGHEST RECOMMENDATION!
My Best Buy number: 0213946812
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+9points
12of 15voted this as helpful.
Transform your home with this Philips Hue white and color ambiance A19 starter kit. The accompanying app lets you sync these lights to music, creating an energizing party atmosphere. Easily adjust the shades of this Philips Hue white and color ambiance starter kit to enjoy a soft glow for evening meals or a natural brightness for focused study.
Customer Rating
5
Perfect Hue Starter Kit
on March 9, 2018
Posted by: gadgetguy11
from Lexington, KY
Verified Purchase:Yes
This is the best way to jump into Hue in a big way, with 4) medium base multi color / white bulbs & a Hub. These are the latest generation Hue with brighter bulbs & more intense colors. The pricing at Best Buy was very attractive compared with individual bulb prices, so I bought it to add to existing Hue bulbs & to have an extra Hub, since the practical limit is 50 bulbs per Hub.
Philips - Hue White and Color Ambiance A19 LED Starter Kit earns my Highest Recommendation!
My Best Buy number: 0213946812
My Best Buy number: 0213946812
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+1point
1of 1voted this as helpful.
Enhance your Hue lighting system with this Philips Hue dimmer switch. Removing the control unit from the magnetic base plate lets you use it as a handheld remote, and the on button also adjusts Philips colors and set ambiance levels. Adjust light settings precisely with this wireless Philips Hue dimmer switch.
Customer Rating
5
Multi-Function Ultimate Control for Hue
on March 9, 2018
Posted by: gadgetguy11
from Lexington, KY
Verified Purchase:Yes
This is the best way to control any Hue bulbs or light strips. Perfect match for Decora Wall Switches, so tape it next to existing switches, sit it on a table or use the built-in magnets to mount on a panel.
Super easy to program! Extremely useful multi-function remote control for Hue!
Philips - Hue Wireless Dimmer Switch with Remote - White
My Best Buy number: 0213946812
My Best Buy number: 0213946812
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Enjoy the 25,000-hour life of this Philips Hue PAR16 bulb. It provides warm or cool natural white light and up to 16 million colors, and it delivers 100 percent output as soon as you turn it on. Create a smart home lighting system by connecting this Philips Hue PAR16 bulb to your Philips Hue bridge (not included).
Customer Rating
5
PAR16 with Hue Quality & Colors
on March 9, 2018
Posted by: gadgetguy11
from Lexington, KY
Verified Purchase:Yes
If you use a PAR16 or similar size medium base accent light, I highly recommend this bulb! I switched the accent lights on my office curio with these. Set timers for different colors with times of the day. The colors are beautiful & are a perfect match to the other Hue bulbs. These bulbs gave new life to office furniture that everybody notices!
Hue White and Color Ambiance PAR16 Wi-Fi Smart LED Spot Light Bulb - Multicolor earns my highest recommendation!
My Best Buy number: 0213946812
My Best Buy number: 0213946812
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+1point
1of 1voted this as helpful.
Bring together your analog and digital music collection with this 2-channel Sony receiver. Its phono input lets you hook up a record player directly, and its Bluetooth capability allows convenient wireless streaming from compatible devices. This Sony receiver has a built-in power amplifier for clear, distortion-free sound, and the rigid chassis minimizes vibration.
Customer Rating
5
This is Not Your Grandfather's Receiver!
on February 24, 2018
Posted by: gadgetguy11
from Lexington, KY
The Sony STRDH190 is an Ultra Modern 2-Channel Audio Receiver designed to deliver Precision Audio for 2018 & Beyond!
LIKES:
1- Smarter Bluetooth Standby turns on receiver wirelessly by any phone or tablet simply by activating Bluetooth! Features Bluetooth Audio Streaming.
2- Vinyl never sounded so clear! Dedicated equalization & gain is activated with Phono Input. The resulting sound is off the charts!! The highly sensitive Phono Preamp is purposely located diagonally opposite the magnetic Power Transformer to keep inference to a minimum.
3- Uses a discrete transistor amplifier, a feature unique to the most expensive High End Power Amplifiers. A discrete amplifier produces sweet sound with much higher Signal to Note Ratio, greater Amplifier Gain, less Clipping, lower Distortion & inaudible Hiss, compared with "Amplifiers on a Chip" that are cheaper & are standard in most receivers.
4- Oversized Power Transformer exceeds power requirements at the loudest Sound Pressure Levels. Feel the weight of this receiver; the massive power transformer is most of the weight. Gone are the flickering receiver lights when you crank up a budget receiver, because it was running out of power. When an amplifier runs out of power, the sine wave audio transitions to a flat top, square wave, or DC. DC burns out speaker coils. Playing an amplifier with inadequate power source causes this phenomenon; this receiver is designed to deliver full rated 100 Watts RMS / Channel continuously without jeopardizing speaker coils.
5- Six (6) stereo inputs: 3) Standard Analog Inputs, 1) Tape or similar Input / Output, 1) Phono & Bluetooth.
6- Full Functional Remote Control
7- Auto Standby: If power is cut & restored, receiver turns back on with the exact input & volume before power was cut. This is a huge feature for a remote installation. I am using this receiver as an outdoor Deck Audio system, using Apple Airport Express with Apple AirPlay as the streaming audio input. I use a WEMO switch to energize / cut power to this receiver. Switch WEMO on & the receiver immediately turns on in the state last set up.
8- Low Profile Cabinet measures only 5 1/4" high; placement is very versatile.
9- 2) Zone A & B speakers are selectable by remote control. This means indoor & outdoor speakers, or 2 rooms of audio can be switched or operated simultaneously.
10- Front Panel 3.5mm audio input connects to Amazon Echo Dot & similar steaming audio sources or smart speakers. No need to fish around the back of the receiver to find the jack.
11- 1/4" full size front panel mounted headphone jack.
12- Built-in FM Radio with 30-station preset, remote controllable.
13- Massive 100 Watts RMS / Channel Output X 2 at 1% THD (it plays VERY LOUDLY yet Sounds PURE!).
14- Dimensions & Weight:
Depth 11.2 in
Width 16.9 in
Height 5.2 in
Weight 14.77 lbs
Width 16.9 in
Height 5.2 in
Weight 14.77 lbs
15- 2-Year Factory Warranty.
16- Hi-Res Audio, with high bit count on digital signals, produces higher than CD quality sound.
17- The steel reinforced chassis, located on the bottom of the receiver, is a work of art & is something to behold! More than a pretty box, this chassis is designed to be located near speakers that you crank up loudly, while absorbing & not transmitting vibration that would directly result in audio distortion heard through the speakers! SONY perfected this feature years ago for their State-Of-The-Art ES Receivers, ES Preamplifiers & ES Amplifiers. To bring such crucial technology to this 2-Channel Receiver clearly shows SONY's dedication to Pure Audio with STRDH190.
18- Sony even added vibration deadening heat sink mounts for the aluminum power transistor heat sinks, to further reduce undesirable vibration that could be transmitted and heard as distortion in the speakers.
19- Pure Direct option on the remote avoids sound coloration & yields only the cleanest tracks.
20- Designed for Speaker Impedance from 6-16 Ohm, which is basically every speaker on the market.
DISLIKES:
1- The volume knob is an ideal size, but is not weighted. In the 70's, large receivers featured "Weighted Volume Control" and "Weighted Tuning Knobs". A small spin and a flywheel behind the front panel would transfer the spin effortlessly with a cool feel. Minor issue, but it would have been nice...
2- Power cord is permanently connected to the back of the receiver; I prefer a receptacle on the back of the receiver with a plug-in power cord. That enables easier routing to AV cabinets.
3- No rear panel IR Sensor. For installations in cabinets using a smart remote such as Harmony, remote transmitter eyes look better - and are invisible - when mounted to the rear panel IR Sensor if one is present on the receiver, rather than stuck on the front panel IR Sensor, with a wire hanging out.
4- No Subwoofer Output. Even though this is a 2-Channel amplifier, using a subwoofer to enhance low frequency sound can be desirable. A single RCA jack with low pass filter would have enabled a simple subwoofer connection.
CONCLUSION: This is Not Your Grandfather's Receiver!
With Smart Bluetooth Connection, Streaming, Phono customized for Vinyl & a Premium construction designed for delivering Pure Sound, Sony STRDH190 earns my HIGHEST RECOMMENDATION!!
With Smart Bluetooth Connection, Streaming, Phono customized for Vinyl & a Premium construction designed for delivering Pure Sound, Sony STRDH190 earns my HIGHEST RECOMMENDATION!!
My Best Buy number: 0213946812
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+57points
95of 133voted this as helpful.
Convert almost any electronic device into a smart appliance with the Wemo Mini Wi-Fi smart plug. It plugs into any outlet and lets you control attached appliances via mobile devices.
Customer Rating
5
Works. Every. Time.
on February 12, 2018
Posted by: gadgetguy11
from Lexington, KY
Verified Purchase:Yes
I am an early adopter & have used various home automation devices over decades. I ditched X10, X10 Pro & Z-Wave, searching for reliable equipment that could offer easy control from a smart-phone with Amazon Echo & Google Home Control. Apple Siri Control would be a bonus. The first Homekit approved devices were extremely disappointing & were unreliable. They had to be unplugged & rebooted about 1ce / week.
Meanwhile, WEMO has become a strong supplier of Home Automation gear. WEMO has built a reputation for dependability, so I tried 1 WEMO Mini WiFi Smart Plug. It was very easy to set-up & 3 months later, I added 15 more.
WEMO wireless switches work 100% of the time. They respond to Amazon Echo & to Google Home. With the upcoming Apple (Siri) adaptor that WEMO is releasing, WEMO will respond to Siri, as well. When you command On or Off state, you get instant notification on your phone App. The timers in the WEMO App work just as consistently as the switch.
Next, I need 4) weather resistant switches for landscape lighting, subject to rain / snow / freezing / 110 degree weather. And Wi-Fi is naturally weaker through the concrete / brick house exterior, where they will be located. At this time, WEMO does not offer such a switch. I wish they did!
So I have 2) choices:
1- Buy a plastic enclosure, insert a WEMO switch, and pull inlet and exit wiring through weatherproof connectors. Basically, make it weather resistant.
Or:
2- Buy an unproven brand that offers a weather resistant product.
I am still weighing options for a weather resistant smart switch with WEMO reliability.
So I have 2) choices:
1- Buy a plastic enclosure, insert a WEMO switch, and pull inlet and exit wiring through weatherproof connectors. Basically, make it weather resistant.
Or:
2- Buy an unproven brand that offers a weather resistant product.
I am still weighing options for a weather resistant smart switch with WEMO reliability.
Conclusion:
WEMO Mini WiFi Smart Plug is a 100% reliable product & has earned my HIGHEST RECOMMENDATION! I hope they add an outdoor version, but for now, WEMO is the BEST of the BEST indoor smart switch!
My Best Buy number: 0213946812
My Best Buy number: 0213946812
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Safeguard your home or business with this 4-pack of motion-activated NETGEAR Arlo Smart Home VMS3430-100NAS security cameras, which enables you to capture 720p video footage both during the day and at night.
How do you charge the cameras?
An included magnetic cord with USB is used to charge the battery. Simply place it on the bottom of the Ultra Camera & it sticks & electrically connects to the camera. You have the option of keeping power on the battery during use, if a wall outlet is handy.
Thank you!
Thank you!
Products from my answer
NETGEAR - Arlo Smart Home Indoor/Outdoor Wireless High-Definition IP Security Cameras (2-Pack) - White/Black
(1,167)
Arlo - Smart Home Indoor/Outdoor Wireless High-Definition Security Cameras (4-Pack) - White/Black
(3,210)5 years, 5 months ago
by
gadgetguy11
Safeguard your home or business with this 4-pack of motion-activated NETGEAR Arlo Smart Home VMS3430-100NAS security cameras, which enables you to capture 720p video footage both during the day and at night.
I have an Eero wireless router with 3 satellite ports. It works well in my 2 story home. Do the cameras need to be 50 to 100 ft from the base or from the Eero satellite port?
The cameras must directly interact with the Base. The "Smart" features are actually in the Base. I am finding much greater distance than the quoted distance of the Ultra camera rom the Base. The base plugs into the router via Ethernet, so the Wireless Router distance to the camera does not matter.
Thank you!
Thank you!
Products from my answer
NETGEAR - Arlo Smart Home Indoor/Outdoor Wireless High-Definition IP Security Cameras (2-Pack) - White/Black
(1,167)
Arlo - Smart Home Indoor/Outdoor Wireless High-Definition Security Cameras (4-Pack) - White/Black
(3,210)5 years, 5 months ago
by
gadgetguy11
Safeguard your home or business with this 4-pack of motion-activated NETGEAR Arlo Smart Home VMS3430-100NAS security cameras, which enables you to capture 720p video footage both during the day and at night.
How long do batteries last on the cameras
The answer totally depends on the amount of motion the camera sees. In a quiet environment, I saw nearly 2 months of battery life. In a high motion environment, I had to charge it about once / week. By motion, I mean a dog or a person alerting the camera to motion.
Products from my answer
NETGEAR - Arlo Smart Home Indoor/Outdoor Wireless High-Definition IP Security Cameras (2-Pack) - White/Black
(1,167)
Arlo - Smart Home Indoor/Outdoor Wireless High-Definition Security Cameras (4-Pack) - White/Black
(3,210)5 years, 5 months ago
by
gadgetguy11
Safeguard your home with this Arlo security camera system. Its 4K resolution provides maximum clarity so you don't miss a single detail, and a siren is integrated so you can fend off intruders either remotely or while at home. This Arlo security camera system is weather-resistant, so it's functional rain or shine.
Can you pair Arlo pro 2 cameras with this system as well? We have 2 arlo pro 2 cameras we would like to utilize on the new system if possible.
YES! I have 5) Arlo Pro 2 Cameras & they work beautifully with the new Smart Base that is included with the new Arlo Ultra. Yours will work beautifully!
However, you cannot pair the new Ultra Camera with the old base you used with your Arlo Pro 2 Cameras. You will no longer need or would want to use that old base. This new one is far superior.
Thank you!
However, you cannot pair the new Ultra Camera with the old base you used with your Arlo Pro 2 Cameras. You will no longer need or would want to use that old base. This new one is far superior.
Thank you!
Products from my answer
NETGEAR - Arlo Smart Home Indoor/Outdoor Wireless High-Definition IP Security Cameras (2-Pack) - White/Black
(1,167)
Arlo - Smart Home Indoor/Outdoor Wireless High-Definition Security Cameras (4-Pack) - White/Black
(3,210)5 years, 5 months ago
by
gadgetguy11
Create custom climate control settings in each room of your home with this pack of three Google Nest temperature sensors. Each sensor communicates directly with your Nest thermostat (not included) to keep your bedroom, living room or nursery at the perfect setting. These sensors work on the wall or on a shelf for convenient setup. With their low-profile design, these Google Nest temperature sensors blend seamlessly with your room's decor.
What is the difference in using these vs. buying a few thermostats for my home? Do I only need one thermostat for my home and then allow these to control the temperature in each zone?
These allow one thermostat to be temperature controlled from any room in the house with this sensor. Plus, the Nest App will show the actual room temp at every room where you placed a sensor.
By contrast, if you bought a few thermostats for your house, and tried to pull the wires from your HVAC to each thermostat, you would still need manual switches to go from 1 to 2 to 3, for example, because only 1 thermostat can connect to 1 HVAC at a time. That would be a nightmare.
By contrast, if you bought a few thermostats for your house, and tried to pull the wires from your HVAC to each thermostat, you would still need manual switches to go from 1 to 2 to 3, for example, because only 1 thermostat can connect to 1 HVAC at a time. That would be a nightmare.
6 years, 3 months ago
by
gadgetguy11
Create custom climate control settings in each room of your home with this pack of three Google Nest temperature sensors. Each sensor communicates directly with your Nest thermostat (not included) to keep your bedroom, living room or nursery at the perfect setting. These sensors work on the wall or on a shelf for convenient setup. With their low-profile design, these Google Nest temperature sensors blend seamlessly with your room's decor.
The product page shows that a $25 rebate is available to purchasers in Cape Cod. The MA-saves website shows no option to get such a rebate. Which is correct ??
The rebate would be through your utility company. I would recommend calling your local utility company in Cape Cod & ask them to send you the rebate form.
6 years, 3 months ago
by
gadgetguy11
Listen to your favorite playlists with these Sony wireless noise-cancelling headphones. They're equipped with the Google Assistant for instant help with a range of tasks, and their silicon support fittings keep the headphones in place while you're active. Use these Sony wireless noise-cancelling headphones' Ambient Sound Mode when you need to stay aware of your environment.
Are this in stock already?
No, they are not in stock already, but you can pre-order them today at Best Buy & get them the day of release!
6 years, 3 months ago
by
gadgetguy11
Take your workout to the next level with Powerbeats³ Wireless earphones, featuring up to 12 hours of battery life to last through multiple workouts and secure-fit earhooks to maximize comfort and stability. With Fast Fuel, a 5-minute charge gives you 1 hour of playback. Sweat and water resistance provides trusted durability and dual-driver acoustics deliver dynamic sound to power your workout.
Why it is not able to connect to my laptop? It works well with the iphone.
The headphones may be automatically connecting to your iPhone, retaining that connection, and if so, cannot connect to your laptop if it is nearby, as Bluetooth can connect to only one source at a time.
Power your iPhone off as a test, or, if you prefer, simply swipe up the screen from the bottom & select Bluetooth OFF.
Then go to settings on your laptop - Bluetooth - make visible. Press & hold the headphone power button on. Look for the headphones on your laptop Bluetooth list. It should be there now. Click on the WH-CH700N.
Power your iPhone back on, or restore Bluetooth, which you previously turned off.
Power your iPhone off as a test, or, if you prefer, simply swipe up the screen from the bottom & select Bluetooth OFF.
Then go to settings on your laptop - Bluetooth - make visible. Press & hold the headphone power button on. Look for the headphones on your laptop Bluetooth list. It should be there now. Click on the WH-CH700N.
Power your iPhone back on, or restore Bluetooth, which you previously turned off.
6 years, 6 months ago
by
gadgetguy11
Take your workout to the next level with Powerbeats³ Wireless earphones, featuring up to 12 hours of battery life to last through multiple workouts and secure-fit earhooks to maximize comfort and stability. With Fast Fuel, a 5-minute charge gives you 1 hour of playback. Sweat and water resistance provides trusted durability and dual-driver acoustics deliver dynamic sound to power your workout.
Could you buy a extra warranty for this?
YES!! Best Buy offers 2-Year Geek Squad Protection for $39.99.
Here is why Geek Squad is the VERY BEST PROTECTION & I always buy it:
1- Extend and enhance your manufacturer's warranty
2- Power surge coverage
3- Replace, not repair, your defective product with a product of like kind and quality
Here is why Geek Squad is the VERY BEST PROTECTION & I always buy it:
1- Extend and enhance your manufacturer's warranty
2- Power surge coverage
3- Replace, not repair, your defective product with a product of like kind and quality
6 years, 6 months ago
by
gadgetguy11
Take your workout to the next level with Powerbeats³ Wireless earphones, featuring up to 12 hours of battery life to last through multiple workouts and secure-fit earhooks to maximize comfort and stability. With Fast Fuel, a 5-minute charge gives you 1 hour of playback. Sweat and water resistance provides trusted durability and dual-driver acoustics deliver dynamic sound to power your workout.
Can you activate Google Assistant with the mic like you can Siri? I didn't see it listed as a feature.
Great Question!!
You can activate an assistant with the WH-CH700N the same as you can with the iOS Home button.
If you can activate Google Assistant by pressing the Home Button & speaking into the phone, then you can activate Google Assistant with the WH-CH700N.
However, if you press the Home Button & it only brings up Siri, that is the same result to expect from WH-CH700N.
Go to Settings - Accessibility - Home Button - Voice Control. If you can get Google Assistant to open, then the answer to your question is YES.
I tried, but was unable to get the phone to open Google Assistant by voice.
You can activate an assistant with the WH-CH700N the same as you can with the iOS Home button.
If you can activate Google Assistant by pressing the Home Button & speaking into the phone, then you can activate Google Assistant with the WH-CH700N.
However, if you press the Home Button & it only brings up Siri, that is the same result to expect from WH-CH700N.
Go to Settings - Accessibility - Home Button - Voice Control. If you can get Google Assistant to open, then the answer to your question is YES.
I tried, but was unable to get the phone to open Google Assistant by voice.
6 years, 6 months ago
by
gadgetguy11