All posts in “Music”

iLive Tailgate Speaker

Most Bluetooth speakers are for personal listening only, or perhaps with a small group of people. You’d be hard-pressed to find a decent portable wireless solution that’ll crank out high-fidelity audio during, say, a party or any magnificently noisy gathering. Enter the iLive Tailgate Speaker.

It’s a 14″ x 9″ x 6″ wireless speaker, so you can imagine how big it is compared to the other popular Bluetooth options out there, including ones from Bose or JBL. Made for being carried around, the device is designed with an integrated handle on top so you can easily take it with you. Under the handle, you’ll find a smattering of controls and inputs. On the front is a 5.25” woofer speaker with LED light effects just under the grille.

Aside from wireless music playback, the iLive Tailgate speaker also comes with a built-in FM receiver. And you can save up to 30 station presets. A microUSB-to-USB cable comes with the box, as well as a 3.5mm audio cable. It’s also got an SD card reader, microphone input and gain control, and a built-in rechargeable battery that lasts three hours on a single charge.

Granted, it’s not the nicest-looking Bluetooth speaker we’ve seen. But it doesn’t look half-terrible. The brutal aesthetic somewhat add to its overall heavy-duty vibe, actually. It’s got a 60-feet range, too — perfect if you’re at a tailgate party; no need to leave your phone if you want to go around. Setup is almost non-existent. Just charge it up, turn it on, connect, and play.

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March 25, 2019 / Comments Off on iLive Tailgate Speaker
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Turtlebox Bluetooth Speaker System

Heading outdoors used be just you, your pals, some survival gear, a cooler, and Mother Nature. These days, our high-tech lifestyle makes it difficult to leave behind our gadgets. Other than our smartphones, people usually bring Bluetooth speakers to play tunes while hanging out. In order to survive unpredictable weather and other environmental hazards, a lot of wireless speakers are now water-resistant. However, the Turtlebox is an intimidating gadget that ups the ante not only is durability but also with the sound.

Boasting a max volume of up to 120 decibels, users should proceed with caution unless they want to scare off everything within range. The manufacturer claims that sound quality will not degrade even in the highest setting. With an ingress protection rating of IP67, you’re practically free to dunk throw it in the water. You can even wash off the dirt and grime that accumulates with a garden hose. Not only is it virtually waterproof, but the formidable housing can also withstand a boatload and abuse.

This durable Bluetooth speaker can even pair with another Turtlebox sound system for stereo audio. Not only is this gadget one tough customer, but it’s also built to keep the party going. The built-in rechargeable battery will pump out tunes for up 20 hours (at 50 percent volume). Not only is it an awesome sound system for outdoor adventures, but you can also use it for tailgate and backyard parties. Moreover, knowing that it’s waterproof, users can even bring it aboard their watercraft for roaring tunes while cruising the seas.

Images courtesy of Turtlebox

Go loud with Turtlebox

March 11, 2019 / Comments Off on Turtlebox Bluetooth Speaker System
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Roland R-07 High-Resolution Audio Recorder

Modern smartphones are powerful all-in-one devices that replace our need for multiple gadgets. The multimedia capabilities of these pocket-friendly computers can even surpass that of older PCs. A lot of the newer models that are coming out boast next-generation camera sensors for taking photos and videos. However, manufacturers often neglect the importance of a good microphone. We might be taking amazing footage and images but the recorded audio is usually sub-par. For those who are serious about recording the high-fidelity sound, the Roland R-07 is a top-notch item to have in your possession.

The R-07 sports premium stereo microphones with a one-button toggle to adjust the settings according to what you’re capturing. It supports both mono and stereo recording up to 24-bit/96 kHz for WAV and up to 320 kbps for MP3. Is also features Bluetooth connectivity so that users can remotely access its functions and monitor the device’s status. Moreover, the Roland companion app is compatible with both Android and iOS devices. This high-resolution recorder sports a rugged no-nonsense design that can practically handle all kinds of bumps and bruises.

It might look like an intimidating gadget that requires a lot of reading to understand, but it’s pretty straightforward. The interface is user-friendly with punchy tactile buttons to control its functions. Highlighting its portable nature, the Roland R-07 opts to use two AA batteries instead of a built-in lithium-ion unit. A fresh pair can approximately last up to 16 hours for recording and up to 30 hours for playback. Users can even slap in a couple of rechargeable batteries and use the USB port to top them up when it gets low.

Images courtesy of Roland

Grab one now for $199.99

March 8, 2019 / Comments Off on Roland R-07 High-Resolution Audio Recorder
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Ultimate Ears myBOOM 3 Bluetooth Speaker

If there’s one thing that consumers want, its options. We might be purchasing the same stuff with the same features, but we always desire originality. It could be a fancy case to cover your smartphone or a stick-on decal that looks cools and makes your device stand out. There’s a huge market for after-market customization and manufacturers all want a piece of the pie. That’s why the Ultimate Ears myBOOM 3 is letting you design a one-of-a-kind Bluetooth speaker.

The brand is taking the initiative giving its customers control over how their speakers will look like. This is a similar concept as to what Motorola offered for its Moto X smartphone. These days, the Lenovo-owned brand is approaching customization a little differently with its modular platform. Taking cues from Moto Maker, Buyers can design how the device looks like online. On the other hand, you can also drop by at select T-Mobile stores in Miami or Chicago and do it there.

You can change the colors of the top, bottom, speaker grille, volume buttons, and strap. Users can select from a wide range of flat colors all of the components. However, there are some special patterns that can be applied to the speaker grille. Furthermore, buyers can also add an engraving to make it more personal. Just like its the regular model, the Ultimate Ears myBOOM 3 is compatible with the optional POWER UP charging dock. It’s a stylish and unique Bluetooth Speaker that you can bring anywhere. The IP67 rating should keep it safe from water and dust.

Customize your own now

March 7, 2019 / Comments Off on Ultimate Ears myBOOM 3 Bluetooth Speaker
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Gomi Hand-Marbled Plastic Bluetooth Speakers

Over the past few years, we’re noticing a big push from companies go green. For example, the automotive industry is steadily making the switch to electric-powered vehicles. Other manufacturers opt to use recycled materials when crafting their products. Overall, this movement is going to be great for the environment as it gives nature more time to recover. Unfortunately, for consumers electronics, the only thing that we can consider as eco-friendly would be the packaging. However, that’s about to change with the Gomi Hand-Marbled plastic speakers.

What’s great about this project is that the material its using is typically not for recycling. We’re talking about flexible plastics that are normally a one-use affair and thrown away. These include shrink wraps, plastic bags, packaging films, builder’s films, and much more. Gomi starts by collecting these and uses a special process to melt and compress the material. The result is exceptional housing that showcases unique patterns on the surface. With all the components assembled inside, you have a Bluetooth 4.0 speaker that offers 18 hours of use on a single charge.

If there’s one thing that’s abundant in trash heaps it’s going to be plastic. Even the ones that are supposedly bio-degradable continue to occupy our landfills. Multiple reports and research even confirm that oceans and beaches are unwillingly hosting these environmental hazards. Wildlife is all sadly affected and end up dying primarily because of ingestion. Not to mention that some end up choking from being entangled. This is the harsh truth that’s plaguing our planet right now. So it’s great news that products like the Gomi Hand-Marbled wireless speaker exist.

Save our planet here

March 4, 2019 / Comments Off on Gomi Hand-Marbled Plastic Bluetooth Speakers
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Cambridge Audio Alva TT

Now is a great time for people who love music. There’s no shortage of artists who create mesmerizing tunes and the technology grows along with them. Playback has come a long way and adoption of the digital medium makes distribution much easier. Nevertheless, audiophiles claim that analog is the best way to go if you want the best fidelity. It’s probably the reason why turntables such as the Cambridge Audio Alva TT and others exist in the first place. While some brands still choose to keep its wires, there are newer models that now have wireless connectivity.

These days, minimalism is a popular design trend and the manufacturers are quick to adapt. Unless there are integrated speakers with the turntable, you still need to hook it up to a couple of speakers. However, for users who want to blast their tunes from a different part of the house, wireless is the way to go. Cambridge Audio understands what consumers are looking for. Hence, the Alva TT includes Bluetooth streaming with support for aptX HD. Sound reproduction should stay crystal clear given the 24 bit/48 kHz Hi-Res streaming speeds.

Meanwhile, if you’re planning to keep the wires, the built-in phono stage handles things nicely. The Cambridge Audio Alva TT ditches the belt-drive and goes with a medium-torque direct-drive system. It’s a smart decision given that the former uses elastic that will eventually stretch over time and affect accuracy. To keep playback stable, the turntable uses a Polyoxymethylene platter. Lastly, the one-piece tonearm and the MC cartridge is the magic pieces that deliver pure audio bliss from your records.

Images courtesy of Cambridge Audio

Cambridge Audio

March 4, 2019 / Comments Off on Cambridge Audio Alva TT
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Sonos Architectural Speakers

The speakers you can install on walls and ceilings Sonos and Sonance talked about in August last year are finally here. The Sonos Architectural is a series of passive speakers you can integrate directly into your living space.

There are three: an in-wall, an in-ceiling, and a standalone weatherproof outdoor speaker. Each can work with the Sonos Amp for built-in whole-home streaming audio.

Let’s get into the outdoor speaker first. Expressly built for Sonos, this features a weatherproof design for year-round listening parties outside the home. Don’t worry about leaving it outside. Sonos designed it to withstand humidity, heat, water, salt spray, UV rays, and freezing temperatures.

As for the in-wall and in-ceiling options, they come with a number of differently shaped grilles. That’s so you can install them into your desired spots without them ever standing out like a sore thumb. They’re called “Architectural” after all, so they’re meant to blend well with the space, not disrupt it. You can automatically tune the speakers to the room using Sonos Trueplay to get optimal sound.

Once installed, the speakers work just like any other regular ones. But there’s a number of notable extra here apart from the premium sound quality typical of Sonos speakers. You’re looking at AirPlay 2 support, Sonos app integration, and hundreds of compatible streaming services at the ready. Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music are just the tip of the iceberg.

Sonos says you can pair up to three Architectural speakers with a single Sonos Amp. Prepare to invest in a few of these amps if you’re planning to customize more than one room.

SHOP SONOS

Photos courtesy of Sonos

February 11, 2019 / Comments Off on Sonos Architectural Speakers
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RAZER Hammerhead USB-C ANC Earphones

RAZER might not be the first brand that pops to your mind when it comes to music. However, over the past few years, the company started to market new items that have caught our attention. While most of its audio accessories are still primarily for gaming, they also perform quite well with tunes. Their catalog gradually introduces smaller options such as on-ear and earbuds. The newest model is the RAZER Hammerhead USB-C ANC and it packs a punch despite its size.

The Hammerhead range of audio products started out with a pair of regular 3.5mm earphones. A variant with in-line controls and mic was likewise released. This was followed by the V2, which sported flat cables and redesigned buds. A Bluetooth-ready version shortly came out thereafter. Now that more mobile devices have started to ditch the standard headphone jack, RAZER reworked its popular earbuds with a USB-Type-C cable. This makes it compatible with newer Android and iOS smartphones and tablets.

Other than the new port, it now flaunts an active noise cancellation tech to reduce ambient sound. The dual-driver configuration delivers a great blend of audio with enough bass to keep the beat thumping. Moreover, the RAZER Hammerhead USB-C ANC features an integrated digital-to-analog converter (DAC) for added clarity. The package even includes two Comply t-500 foam tips on top of the three pairs of silicone tips. The Aluminum enclosure and braided cables ensure great-quality and durability.

Grab it from RAZER

Photos courtesy of RAZER

February 3, 2019 / Comments Off on RAZER Hammerhead USB-C ANC Earphones
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RAZER Nari Ultimate Gaming Headphones

Ask any professional gamer about what helps them win during matches and most will tell you about audio cues. Seeing as we love playing video games, any leg up over the competition is worth learning. The visual elements are understandably important as well, but ambient sound can tell us even more. RAZER acknowledges what players need and is about to change the game with the RAZER Nari Ultimate gaming headphones.

You can probably recall the time when force feedback made its way to the gaming industry. This allowed players to literally feel the game as the system converted most of the on-screen action into vibrations. The technology even evolved into the haptic feedback used on devices to emulate certain tactile sensations.

When it comes to high-level PC gaming, players rely on their accuracy with the keyboard and mouse to control gameplay. Therefore, the surface used should be level and free from any vibrations. RAZER presumably recognizes the compromise and came up with the idea for the new audio product. The brand introduces its HyperSense technology, which was developed by Lofelt. It produces haptic vibrations directly via the wireless headphones.

The sensory feedback provided by the RAZER Nari Ultimate will be something new for PC gamers. It’s a clever move by the manufacturer to enhance the user’s gaming experience. Furthermore, the THX Spatial Audio technology on board promises superb sound. Its uni-body aluminum frame, auto-adjusting headband, and swiveling ear cups with cooling gel-infused cushions provide outstanding comfort for those long gaming sessions.

Feel the feedback now

Photos courtesy of RAZER

February 3, 2019 / Comments Off on RAZER Nari Ultimate Gaming Headphones
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Dolby Dimension Bluetooth Headphones

At $600, the Dolby Dimension is by far one of the most expensive Bluetooth headphones out there. But if cash isn’t a problem for you, you’ll love these for their insane sound made for cinematic experiences.

Dolby shouldn’t be an unfamiliar name for most. For years it’s been delivering 3D audio to living rooms across the world. Which is why it’s not surprising at all that it’s first piece of consumer hardware is all about getting the most immersive audio while binge watching or listening to music.

As you’ve probably already guessed, the Dolby name assures topnotch audio quality. But it’s not just audio alone that makes the pair special. Because they’re designed for binge-watching, they’re super comfortable for long periods of use. It’s got ample padding on the headband and just hefty enough without feeling like a burden after hours of usage. The tension on the headband is also well-designed. That means even people with big heads can wear these without feeling any sort of appalling discomfort.

Other features include one-touch switching between Bluetooth devices. That should keep the binge-watching seamless whether you want to jump from your laptop to you phone to your tablet. The earcups feature controls for playback and volume adjustment, to name a few.

Again, the $600 price tag puts it out of reach of most consumers, especially if there are decent alternatives out there that don’t cost an arm and a leg. Even still, this thing is beastly good, and you’ll be getting your money’s worth.

BUY IT HERE

January 28, 2019 / Comments Off on Dolby Dimension Bluetooth Headphones
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McIntosh MTI100 All-In-One Turntable

With the McIntosh MTI100, the famed audio company finally joins the all-in-one crowd. Make no mistake, though. The turntable you see above is still a legitimate McIntosh.

That means you’re still looking at the the signature look and feel of McIntosh’s high-end elements. Still intact are the black lacquer finish, large tactile knobs, and alluring lime-green glow.

It gets more interesting inside, though. Hiding underneath is a 50-watt Class D amplifier, vacuum tube preamp, phono preamplifier, digital and analog outputs. Made for modern folks, it’s even got a Bluetooth receiver. Truly an all-in-one turntable for the most preening audiophile.

Oh, and there’s also a headphone jack if you want more private listening sessions. The McIntosh MTI100 plays both 33-1/3 and 45 rpm vinyl records.

The idea with this model is that you “just add speakers” to listen to your music collection. There’s practically no need to worry about other audio components. The device already has everything in lock. That’s essentially the pitch for all-in-one turntables. The only difference is this one’s geared toward audiophiles; most all-in-one models aren’t. Suffice it to say that the McIntosh MTI100 isn’t just designed for ease of use. It’s also built with prime audio quality in mind.

One has to wonder why it’s taken this long for McIntosh to please both demographics. But we’re not complaining, of course. After all, an all-in-one turntable with audiophile-grade quality is hard to come by these days.

The thing is expected to cost $6,500 when it ships by the end of this month.

MORE INFO HERE

January 26, 2019 / Comments Off on McIntosh MTI100 All-In-One Turntable
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Google Home Hub Smart Speaker

As an alternative to smart speakers, tech companies have released models that come with touch displays to expand their functions. Gadgets such as the 2018 Amazon Echo Show are devices that encourage people to initiate video calls instead. However, It’s a surprise to learn that the Google Home Hub, despite it being a next-generation product, does not come with a front-facing camera. The company probably has a good reason why it chose not to install an imaging sensor, so let’s find out.

Making video calls have seen increased adoption lately. Brands such as JBL recently showcased the Link View smart speaker, which apes the online retailer’s product, but includes better speakers. On the other hand, Facebook introduced its Portal and Portal Plus platform that touted a dynamic camera system which follows you around and automatically adjusts depending on the number of users.

The Home Hub is no slouch by any means. It’s powered by Google Assistant’s advanced AI and is compatible with most smart home devices. Moreover, you likewise gain access to YouTube Premium for free up to six months. Alexa-running machines currently cannot access the service. The 7-inch display is not as imposing as the 10-inch screen on the new Echo Show.

Users should be aware that in order for smart speakers to function properly, its microphones are always listening for commands. Researchers have pointed out that there’s a possibility that hackers or malware can allow unauthorized access to the device. There have been reported cases wherein personal information was collected by third parties while the user remained unaware. The Google Home Hub’s missing imaging system could be a precautionary measure to prevent people from spying on you. If you’re still interested, there are four colors available: Sand, Charcoal, Chalk, and Green.

Get Connected Here

Photos courtesy of Google

January 18, 2019 / Comments Off on Google Home Hub Smart Speaker
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JBL Link View Smart Speaker

If you’re looking for a smart speaker, chances are that you are already eyeing Amazon’s Echo range of products. We know that the online retailer is currently the market leader when it comes to smart home management and virtual assistants, but when it comes to audio performance, there are other brands out there that can do even better. For example, JBL Link View, which appears to compete directly against the new Echo Show, is worth your consideration due to the sound quality it produces.

JBL is already an established name when it comes to audio. So you can look forward to clarity with enough bass to handle various tunes. However, it’s primarily marketed as an alternative to Amazon’s lineup. First of all, we would like to point out that we love its pill-shaped design over the Echo Show’s bulkier appearance.

The touchscreen sits in between two front-firing drivers with a matte finish on the rear assembly. You will find a metallic JBL emblem on the rear with control buttons located just above it. This smart speaker uses Google Assistant to handles all your queries and commands seamlessly. It is compatible with most smart home products and should give the 2018 Amazon Echo Show a run for its money. However, at $199.95, some might consider the latter a better deal instead.

JBL Link View $199.95

Photos courtesy of JBL

January 7, 2019 / Comments Off on JBL Link View Smart Speaker
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Bose Solo 5 TV Sound System

Setting up a home theater system for upscale entertainment is not an easy task. The equipment needed is expensive and requires a professional to properly tune and arrange the speakers. Moreover, the projector needs to be positioned and tweaked accurately to produce the best picture quality. On the other hand, the advancement in display and audio technology takes the guesswork out of the equation. Thereby, virtually turning it into a straightforward process. The Bose Solo 5 TV Sound System delivers top-notch sound-enhancement for your multimedia needs.

As televisions become even bigger and thinner, manufacturers often settle for a compromise with its speakers to achieve the slim form factor. That’s why sound bars are exploding in popularity. They are a perfect companion for your flat-screen, curve, or even wallpaper TV. The Solo 5 TV Sound System measures 2.6 x 21.6 x 3.4 inches and weighs 3.73 lbs.

You can connect the Bose Solo 5 TV Sound System to your display of choice via the digital optical output, coaxial port, or go analog with the standard 3.5mm auxiliary connection. Its Bluetooth connectivity likewise allows you to wirelessly stream your music to the speaker. The product page notes that the built-in dialogue mode enhances speech to make every word crisp and audible. Furthermore, the matte black finish of the soundbar makes it easy to match with most of the TV models from various brands.

Get it here

Photos courtesy of Bose

January 4, 2019 / Comments Off on Bose Solo 5 TV Sound System
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2018 Amazon Echo Dot

Consumers who absolutely love and depend on Alexa for most of their daily news, tasks, and smart home function controls are about to get a new upgrade with the 2018 Echo lineup. We have the all new Show with its 10-inch touchscreen display and design, the second-generation Plus with its improved smart home capabilities, and the 2018 Amazon Echo Dot smart speaker that packs cutting-edge technology into an inconspicuous little enclosure.

Just like the new Echo Plus, the upcoming Dot no longer features the sharp edges of its predecessor. What you see now is a more minimalistic design language that uses gentle curves to produce a futuristic vibe.  We also observed that the manufacturer opted to copy some of its competitors. We’re talking about the new fabric mesh that covers its body.

Amazon claims that the new device is 70 percent louder than the outgoing model and should sound even better. Surveys show that consumers primarily use these speakers to listen to their tunes, which is probably why a leg up on audio quality will make it an attractive reason to get the upgrade. We also learned that the 2018 Echo Dot now uses four microphones. Older models used seven, but it should not be a cause for worry. Tests show that the device can still make out your voice from across the room.

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December 28, 2018 / Comments Off on 2018 Amazon Echo Dot
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2018 Amazon Echo Plus

Tech companies regularly  make announcements regarding its annual product lineup refresh to keep things interesting. These items are usually reworked to include the latest upgrades and new gimmicks. Hopefully, it will encourage consumers to take the plunge yet again for another cycle. Amazon recently unveiled its newest update for its popular range of smart speakers. One of those, the 2018 Amazon Echo Plus, flaunts a built-in smart home hub that unlocks even more options for wireless connectivity with more products.

As of now, it’s pretty obvious that the online retail giant is ahead of the smart speaker game. Google trails closely with its own lineup of devices, while Apple and Samsung are in dead last with one product each. The availability of Alexa is so widespread that almost every smart home device available on the market is compatible with Echo devices.

The 2018 Amazon Echo Plus integrates a Zigbee hub to communicate with even more products compared to its predecessor. Its advanced speaker configuration touts Dolby audio-enhancement technology to deliver crisp and clear sound. You will likewise notice that it underwent a dramatic size reduction compared to the first-generation unit. Furthermore, the top and bottom of the smart speaker sport contoured edges that make it look stylish yet discreet. It comes in three colors: Heather Gray, Sandstone, and Charcoal.

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December 27, 2018 / Comments Off on 2018 Amazon Echo Plus
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2018 Amazon Echo Show

When Amazon released the original Echo Show, it was met with both good and bad feedback from consumers. It had all of the functions and features of the company’s Alexa-powered smart speakers and even included a 7-inch touchscreen. However, it came with a somewhat outdated design with its front-facing speaker right below the display. It also featured an angular and boxy look that did not sit well with some owners who preferred a curvy aesthetic akin to other Echo offerings. It appears that the online retailer finally came up with a new look that’s more pleasing than its predecessor with the 2018 Amazon Echo Show.

The 2018 model comes with a new touchscreen, which is 10.1 inches. The speaker configuration now positions them on the side. Each one boasts neodymium drivers and is equipped with real-time Dolby audio enhancement. You can still find an advanced 8-microphone array that can pick up voice commands with ease.

Another new feature that comes with the 2018 Amazon Echo Show is the support for video calling via Skype. Moreover, the new device now touts web-browsing capabilities via the Firefox or Silk browser. Cooking should be a breeze now that the smart speaker is compatible with Amazon Meal Kits. Get ready to shell out around $299.99 to upgrade your connected lifestyle.

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December 27, 2018 / Comments Off on 2018 Amazon Echo Show
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Huawei Freebuds 2 Pro

Over the years, we have heard and read news regarding big tech companies trying to outdo each other’s products. For example, the bitter feud between Apple and Samsung over “who copied who.” Additionally, it also involves which brand has more features over the other. We understand that there are features that are exclusively available on certain platforms. Yet, sometimes, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. Let’s move on to the latest annoying trend that almost every Android handset manufacturer has copied—the “notch.” Meanwhile, another product copies something else with the Huawei Freebuds 2 Pro.

The Chinese brand already tried its hand with the camera cutout on most of its mid-range and flagship smartphones. Now, it’s ready to take on the Apple AirPods with an imitation of its own. Despite making fun of the manufacturer, we are seriously impressed with the innovative feature integrated into the package. Not only can the earbuds wirelessly connected via Bluetooth, but they can also be charged minus the cables. This becomes the solid definition for a true-wireless pair of earphones.

You’ll discover that it looks almost exactly like Apple’s product. Even the charging case appears identical. Nevertheless, what sets it apart is a small strip of color on its body. Now here’s the kicker, the Huawei Freebuds 2 Pro is compatible with any wireless charging pad that uses the Qi standard. Furthermore, it also works perfectly in tandem with the upcoming Mate 20 and Mate 20 Pro’s wireless charging coil. So basically, you can set the charging case on top of the aforementioned smartphones’ back cover to top them up.

Huawei

Photos courtesy of Huawei

December 26, 2018 / Comments Off on Huawei Freebuds 2 Pro
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RAZER Ifrit

Ask any professional gamer regarding how they stay ahead of the competition. Most will tell you it’s all about practice. We agree that repetitive actions can condition our muscles to react to certain visual cues on the screen. However, we often neglect another element that is absolutely crucial to hone your reaction time. We are talking about the audio effects. These are cues that give players an idea of what’s going on and even warn them of incoming threats. RAZER is an industry expert when it comes to gaming accessories and it just unveiled a new member of its audio lineup—the RAZER Ifrit.

According to RAZER, the new headset is a lightweight audio device for gamers who broadcast their gameplay. Its compact and discreet design will keep the viewer’s attention to the action on screen rather than on the player. You’ve probably noticed that most Twitch or YouTube streamers are often armed with larger-than-life headphones that are admittedly sometimes obnoxious. The Ifrit should be a perfect choice for those who want to keep a low-profile during their broadcast.

Another problem with over-ear headphones is that they tend to get stuffy after long hours of play. RAZER takes its years of experience developing gaming-grade audio devices to create the Ifrit. Therefore, you can expect to hear crystal clear audio of your game and your buddies. The gaming headset also ships with a professional-grade unidirectional condenser mic technology that you normally find on bigger microphones. Console gamers will be happy to learn that the device is also compatible with the Sony PlayStation 4 and Microsoft Xbox One.

RAZER Ifrit $99.99

Photos courtesy of RAZER

December 26, 2018 / Comments Off on RAZER Ifrit
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Optoma NuForce BE Free5 Wireless Earphones

Back when wireless audio technology was still in its infancy, consumers had limited choices. They had to deal with a hefty pair of headphones and a similarly bulky transmitter. The invention of Bluetooth technology and its improvements resulted in the creation of compact designs that fit inside your pocket. Further upgrades led to the creation of true-wireless earbuds. These types are now the standard models that you get from most brands. The Optoma NuForce BE Free5 claims to have a leg up when it comes to audio quality, so let’s check it out.

These days, other than small gimmicks and nuances, there’s hardly any difference between wireless earphones offered by companies. Sure, there are popular audio brands that might be good options, but you can expect to pay a premium price thanks to the label.

That’s where Optoma comes in—to offer consumers like us a stylish and properly-tuned set of wireless earphones. According to the company, the earbuds are armed with 5.6mm graphene-membrane drivers to produce top-notch audio. Moreover, they supposedly gathered feedback from over a thousand third-party testers to craft to properly develop an ergonomic fit.

The Optoma NuForce BE Free5 is built to withstand moisture from water, sweat, and the occasional downpour. A single charge reportedly delivers up to four hours of listening time, while 15 minutes docked inside the portable charging case grants an hour of usage. At $99, this looks like an optimum alternative to more popular brands in the market.

Own a pair now

Photos courtesy of Optoma

December 15, 2018 / Comments Off on Optoma NuForce BE Free5 Wireless Earphones
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