Tag Archives: review

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BlackBerry Z10 Review

I recently had the opportunity to test and review the Blackberry Z10 and was quite impressed by it overall.BlackBerry Z10

It offers  a decent  4.2-inch 1280 x 768 display, 1.5GHz dual-core processor, 2GB of RAM, 16GB of internal storage. It is similar in size to the Iphone and a wee bit smaller than the Motorola Atrix HD.

I liked the user interface, especially the integration of email, and social media functions into one hub. It has decent applications available but just needs more of them.

Design:

The phone is a master of the simplicity of design, but it offers a nice level of function as well its’ form.

Compared to the iphone it is slightly larger, and feels  nice in the hand as well:

 

Personally I found the phone to be one which would make a nice daily driver and would work well for my life.  It could be a bit bigger, however there is now a larger device available on the market which was not available at the time of the original review.

I also liked the rubbery coating on the back of the device as well. It was great to stop it from slipping out of the hand.

Camera:

The camera was nicely designed, and worked fairly well. It was decent for day to day usage. Could it be better, of course, but things could always be better when it comes to technology.

Software:

I liked the user interface, the sound quality, and the overall design and usability.

I would definitely would recommend this device to most users. The design feels nice, well  made and nicely made. There are other devices out there made of aluminum and other materials, but it really does not matter, but it is nicely designed as it is.

I like Android and IOS but I find Blackberry OS to be a refreshing alternative.

Expansion:

The device offers microSIM and microSD slots.

I think that the sd card will support up 32 gb, but have heard that it will also offer 64gb or larger cards as well.

The phone comes standard wiith  16GB of internal storage, which will appeal to many who have been put out by the devices that do not offer sd card expansion like the Iphone, and HTC’s One M7.

The phone also offers NFC communications, as well as Bluetooth which are quite nice features to have as far as expansion and connection to the world around us.

Besides the standard volume keys, the device also offers a third button to do voice control and play and stop music too.

Overall I was impressed by the phone, and it could work quite well for  most users.

 

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MICROLAB ANNOUNCES ULTIMATE HD AUDIO GIFT FOR FATHER’S DAY MAN CAVES – FC60BT

MICROLAB ANNOUNCES ULTIMATE HD AUDIO GIFT FOR FATHER’S DAY MAN CAVES – FC60BT WIRELESS BLUETOOTH/NFC 2.1 SUBWOOFER SPEAKER SYSTEM –         Microlab Patented HC2D Technology (High Clarity Close Distance) for Crystal Clear Music –         Powerful Integrated Subwoofer with 2 See-Through Enclosure-less Stereo Satellite Speakers for no Harmonic Distortions or Vibrations –         360 Degree Remote with Bluetooth/NFC Settings – Easy Set-up   FC60BT Photo2Microlab is a CES Innovations Award Winner April 10, 2014, ShenZhen, China – Microlab www.microlab.com, a leading audio manufacturer of portable and Hi-Fi speaker systems for the digital home and office and a CES 2012 Innovations Award Winner, announced today the FC60BT HD audio wireless Bluetooth/NFC 2.1 Subwoofer Speaker System, featuring Microlab’s patented HC2D Technology, a powerful subwoofer, and 2 advanced stereo satellite SQ speakers without enclosures for crystal clear sound without harmonic distortions or vibrations that often happen when speakers are enclosed.    HC2D Technology for Supreme Immersive Sound & Modern White Lycosa Mirrored Acrylic Styling  The perfect Father’s Day gift for the ultimate fully immersive “man cave” audio listening experience, the FC60BT brings audio perfection to dad with Microlab’s innovative patented HC2D (High Clarity Close Distance) technology that provides an impeccable 105 Watt crystal clear output, with EQ parameter for automatically balanced sound, a 360 degree remote control that works from any angle in the room, modern white acrylic styling, and quick and easy set-up.   360 Degree Remote for Access from Any Angle in the Room — Lying on the Couch, at a Desk, or Anywhere Else The FC60BT features a modern design which fits into any environment, with sexy clear see-through speakers and a luxurious Lycosa mirrored white acrylic subwoofer with a matching powerful whitecircular remote.  The system connects to Bluetooth, NFC, and optical devices, including smartphones, tablets, HDTVs, CD, DVD, and Blu-ray players, and PCs and Laptops through its convenient 360 degree RF remote control that works from any angle in the room, so dad can access the system while relaxing on the couch, at his pool table, desk, bar or from anywhere else in his man cave, office or studio.  The remote quickly controls on/off, input choice (Bluetooth, NFC, or optical), volume and bass level, pause/stop, and track selection.  FC60BT Features:

  • 2.1 subwoofer system with 2 see-through stereo satellite speakers.
  • Patented HC2D Technology (High Clarity Close Distance) for crystal clear sound with full resolution range when listening at close or from a far distance.
  • Bluetooth 4.0 wireless technology connects to smartphones and tablets.
  • NFC (Near Field Communication) function quickly connects to Android, Windows and Blackberry devices without pairing — just tap the device on the remote control’s NFC logo for instant music.
  • Powerful integrated 8-inch bass subwoofer with built-in amplifier.
  • 2 stereo enclosure-less satellite SQ speakers for no harmonic distortions or vibrations.
  • Digital signal processor for clear HD audio sound.
  • Connects to most media players with included stereo 3.5mm jack.
  • 360 degree RF remote control for Bluetooth, NFC, track, input, volume, and bass controls that works from any angle in the room.
  • 1-inch tweeter and 5-inch midrange set up in tandem for perfectly clear sound.
  • EQ parameter for automatically balanced sound.
  • Quick and easy plug n’ play set up in a few minutes.
  • Amplifier output: 105 Watt RMS.
  • Tweeter:  6 Ohm, Midrange:  8 Ohm.

Availability & Pricing  Priced at $449 SRP, the Microlab FC60BT will be available in May distributed in the U.S. by Ma Labs.  For information, contact:  email microlab@microlab.com.cn,website: www.microlab.com.  The FC60BT includes subwoofer, two satellite speakers, remote control, 3.5mm stereo – 2RCA cable, optical S/PDIF cable, and user manual.  For more information, see www.microlab.com.  About Microlab  Since its founding in 1998, Microlab has specialized in designing, manufacturing and marketing a full range of speaker products, from battery-powered portable speakers to high-fidelity home audio systems.  Microlab prides itself in providing high quality sound at affordable prices.  This is accomplished by their continued focus on acoustic research, with an R & D team experienced in driver and electronics design and an industrial design team skilled at creating trendy, yet functional designs. Microlab’s 320,000 square foot (100,000 square meters) production facility is state-of-the-art, capable of producing over 4 million units a year.  To ensure quality and performance of their products, Microlab makes all critical parts (drivers, plastic parts, etc.) in house.  Microlab has over 1,500 employees and is based in Shenzhen, China, a city of 15 million people, a 30 minute train ride from Hong Kong.  The company has established an extensive sales network in China and around the world.  It has distributors in around 50 countries and generates over $60 Million in revenue each year.  Microlab has become the top brand in multimedia speakers in many markets, a testimony to the quality and performance of their products.

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My Review: Audio-Technica SonicFuel ATH-CKX5iS Headphones

Audio-Technica SonicFuel ATH-CKX5iS

I ran into the folks from Audio-Technica recently at CES 2014. After a bit of time I finally have the opportunity to test and review  2 of their headphones. This review covers their in-ear model the SonicFuel ATH-CKX5iS Headphones.

Introduction:

I have been testing some over the ear headphones recently for a variety of manufacturers’s with several more coming down the pipeline. I am all about the music, am working on establishing a foundation for autism and the arts and music if I ever get funding. I am a hyper functioning autistic tech and autism blogger, my 3 kids and I as well as my wife are rather fond of music and the arts.

I like Audio-Technica for the quality of their products and their history in music.

According to Audio technica:

Audio-Technica—Audio pioneer in high-performance sound design 

Established in 1962, Audio-Technica is a worldwide group of companies devoted to the design, manufacture, marketing and distribution of problem-solving audio equipment. Initially known for state-of-the-art phonograph cartridges, A-T now creates high-performance microphones, headphones, wireless systems, mixers and electronic products for home and professional use. 

Winner of numerous industry awards, Audio-Technica manufactures products that set quality, durability and price/performance standards for live sound tours, broadcast and recording studios, corporate and government facilities, house-of-worship venues, and more. A-T microphones are chosen for critical government installations such as the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate. Audio-Technica microphones and wireless systems are also selected for major broadcast music events, including the GRAMMY® Awards and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremonies. 

Design:

In regards to in-ear headphones I am impressed by the design and build quality of the SonicFuel ATH-CKX5iS Headphones . The one I received are black, but they are available in a variety of colors as seen here–>

 

They ought to appeal to a variety of users from business folk, to teens to seniors as well.

The headphones are some of the better designed in ear headphones that I have so far had the opportunity to test.

They also have a built in microphone for those of us who have to do the occasional conference call or who want to use them to talk on your smartphone when a blue tooth headset is unavailable.

These fine sonic fuel in ear headphones due to their interesting and innovative connection to ones ears, are likely to be useful while at the gymn, riding a bike, watching a movie or listening to music.

Quality:

As mentioned previously, I like their design quality.

As far as audio quality I tried them and a few of our other people to test them too, as well as one of my teen-agers.

For jazz, blues, light rock, most folk music the sound quality was nice. For my son’s dubstep or rap type music, the bass performance was not as good as some of the over the ear speakers that are going to be reviewed from Audio-Technica soon.

 

In terms of their usefulness, Audio-Technica provides 4  different sized ear tips and 3 different C-tips (and a pouch to keep it all in) so you shouldn’t have a problem finding one that fits for you.

Personally I have large ears, so the connectors that came with the box work well for me and kelp the headphones in my ears most of the time.

I would agree with Audio Technica in regards to their statement with regards to Sonicfuel headphones:

 

Music is your energy for life – the fuel for your heart and soul. SonicFuel™ headphones are specifically designed for active, daily use, to power you forward by delivering extraordinary comfort, style and an immersive listening experience that never sounds artificial, processed or filtered. Just pure sonic goodness for the high-octane tempo of your life. 

The ATH-CKX5iS SonicFuel in-ear headphones feature stay-in-place fit, providing unique comfort in addition to optimal sound. The C-tip configuration nestles within the ear where it locks in place for extra stability. A 360˚ rotating eartip adjusts to the unique angle of your ear canal for personalized fit and improved sound isolation. 

In-line volume and microphone controls (on compatible smartphones) allow you to control music & phone calls without missing a beat. 

Wrap Up:

If you are seeking very nice in-ear headphones that sound good, look nice, and stay in your ears, these ought to be near the top of the list. They retail for about $ 50. If these are this nice, I am curious how their higher priced in-ear headphones sound. I would definitely recommend these headphones and found them to be very nice.

I was provided with a set of the Audio-Technica SonicFuel ATH-CKX5iSBK headphones for the purpose of this review and these are the headphones featured in some of the images above, the photo of the different colored headphones is a stock image. As always, this represents my true and honest opinion.

To check out Audio-Technica’s website and products please click <here>!!

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Hands-on Test of the Sony Xperia Z on T-Mobile LTE

Hands-on Test of the Sony Xperia Z on T-Mobile LTE (via Tom’s Hardware)

At CES 2013, which was over six months ago, a smartphone caught our eyes and captured our hearts enough for us to call it one of the best things we saw at the show back in January. That phone was the Sony Xperia Z, which at the time was one of the first…

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The New Xperia™ Z Ultra: The World’s Slimmest and Largest Full HD Smartphone Display*

The New Xperia™ Z Ultra: The World’s Slimmest and Largest Full HD Smartphone Display* (via newscanada-network)

Technology-Watch.Network              Canadian News ,Sports Business &Technology  June 25, 2013 04:35   The New Xperia™ Z Ultra: The World’s Slimmest and Largest Full HD Smartphone Display* MOBILE ASIA EXPO, SHANGHAI, June 25, 2013 /CNW…

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My Experience with Blackmagic Design’s Intensity Pro Card!!

I recently had the opportunity to test and review the Blackmagic Design Intensity Pro Card. I was quite impressed to say the least.

According to the folks at BMD(Blackmagic Design)–>

Intensity Pro is the world’s first HDMI and analog component, NTSC/PAL and S-Video PCIe capture and playback card for Windows, Mac OS X and Linux computers. Intensity Pro is great for HDTV or standard definition editing using big screen televisions and video projectors. Intensity Pro works with uncompressed SD or HD video, and compressed codecs such as DNxHD, ProRes, DVCPRO HD, DVCPRO 50, JPEG, HDV and DV! Intensity Pro is a professional editing card featuring maximum real time effects in Avid Media Composer 6™, Apple Final Cut Pro™ and Adobe Premiere Pro™, with full support for both uncompressed and compressed AVI and QuickTime files. Intensity Pro also has full integration with Adobe After Effects and Photoshop.

I tested mine with Windows 8 and Mac OS 10.8.4 and it did an amazing job, and imported video with extreme clarity and very quickly.

intensityextreme image 2 intensitypro 1 diagram

 

Here is a chart of the available inputs and outputs:

 

 

 

As Well as another

It seems to be a useful and power full device and I definitely recommend it to people that need to import and edit video.

Blackmagic’s Intensity Pro is a PCI Express card which allows you to capture footage from an unprotected HDMI source, along with analogue Composite, S-Video and Component footage. Believe it or not, capturing via HDMI could deliver superior quality from certain HD camcorders than a traditional Firewire link, and doing so with the Intensity can also deliver files which are quicker and easier to edit too.

In addition I found that when I used the card it can allow you to save space on your storage device. The Intensity can capture it, giving you 1/3 greater horizontal resolution. Obviously it’s not practical to lug a PC with you just to capture the full resolution from a tethered HDV camcorder, but there’s many studio-based applications which can exploit it. If you have a powerful but small pc or mac that can be taken with you then it can be advantageous.

If you are interested in one of these cards they are available on the apple store http://store.apple.com/us/product/TP150LL/A/blackmagic-design-intensity-pro-hdmi-card

and B&H–>http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/495426-REG/Blackmagic_Design_BINTSPRO_Intensity_Pro_HDMI_and.html

Here is an unboxing video–>

Watch this video on YouTube.

as well as–>
Watch this video on YouTube.

Overall I am quite impressed by the Intensity Pro and Recommend it!!

Here is an overview from Engadget as well!!

http://www.engadget.com/2006/09/12/blackmagic-design-announces-intensity-first-hdmi-pci-express-ca/

I personally captured video with it, I also made a video to dvd, put it on a blueray, then captured it to my mac via the intensity pro as a test and it worked well, with amazing quality.

Personally I am working on a kickstarter project to do a documentary on autism and I plan on using blackmagic designs cameras and hardware to do the movie!!

http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1456183616/documentary-about-autism-in-las-vegas-and-music-th

I would definitely recommend their cameras and hardware!!

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Tech Review of the Fuji X10 Camera

I recently had the opportunity to review the Fuji x10 Camera.

I was impressed by it’s specifications:

The X10 has a 12 megapixel EXR CMOS sensor, f/2-2.8, 28-112mm manual zoom lens, up to 12,800 ISO sensitivity, 1080p video, an optical viewfinder, and pop-up flash as well as a hotshoe for an external flash unit as well.

It felt good in the hands and was solidly manufactured. I especially liked that it had a view finder and a hot shoe too.

I found that it took excellent photo’s and videos in a variety of Situations.

Please see my brief hands on summary video as well–>

 

Watch this video on YouTube.

Building on the tremendous success of the sophisticated FUJIFILM X100 digital camera, the new premium compact FUJIFILM X10 is the latest addition to the growing FUJIFILM X-series of advanced digital cameras.

The FUJIFILM X10 features a new larger 2/3″ 12 megapixel EXR CMOS sensor and a bright high-definition FUJINON1 F2.0 wide-angle to F2.8 telephoto 4x manual zoom lens (28-112mm)2 that produces superb image quality from edge to edge. The FUJIFILM X10 has a beautiful blackout and retro design that includes a traditional optical viewfinder with a wide 20° field of view for exceptional image composition.

Personally I really liked the camera, it’s design. and was impressed with it overall.

Note this is the follow up to our previous review of the Fuji X10–> https://technewszone.com/fuji-x-series-x10-our-preliminary-review-phase-1/

Your Editor,

David Berkowitz

 

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Tech Reviews:IK Multimedia announces iKlip 2 and iKlip Studio for iPad mini now available

For Immediate Release:
IK Multimedia announces iKlip 2 and iKlip Studio for iPad mini now available   Now positioning any iPad or iPad mini on stage, in the studio, in the office or at home is easier than ever
May 16, 2013  –  IK Multimedia, the leader in mobile music-creation apps and accessories, is shipping the new range of its smart iPad holders for stage, studio, office or home. The new iKlip™ 2 for iPad, and for iPad mini, are enhanced versions of the most popular iPad microphone stand holders for musicians and presenters, while iKlip Studio for iPad mini completes the range of IK’s practical tabletop stands for 7” tablets.
iKlips for iPads from IK Multimedia
All the new iKlips are made in Italy from durable-but-light thermoplastic, and sport a sleek industrial design. Although the new ergonomically designed iKlip models were created with musicians in mind, they are also perfect for business presentations and speeches; educational, video and camera applications; health or kiosk-type information systems and everyday use in the office, at home or on the road.
Here are the new models:
iKlip 2 is designed to securely hold an iPad 2 (and later) or an iPad mini on a microphone stand or other vertical or horizontal “pole” up to 2.1”/30mm in diameter. It secures to the pole in seconds with a sure-grip tightening system, leaving the threaded end of the stand open for other uses. iKlip 2 features a new ball-joint design that gives it amazing flexibility for infinite multi-angle adjustment and positioning with a simple touch. It can be adjusted both vertically and horizontally to find just the right viewing angle, and can be quickly rotated between portrait and landscape mode. The new iKlip 2 is available in two models: for the regular iPad and for the new iPad mini.
The new iKlip 2 adapters offer the ultimate in safe, secure holding of iPad and iPad mini at the optimum required viewing angle, and they are perfect for hands-free viewing and use with any type of apps and accessories, leaving all the iPad buttons and ports free from obstructions.
Sing with iRig Mic and VocaLive on your iPad attached to iKLIP 2iKlip 2 applications are countless, and range from holding iPads for musicians on stage to teleprompter-style presentations on boardroom podiums; from securing the iPad anywhere for video and camera applications to mounting it as a multimedia display; from keeping the iPad on hand for order taking or form entry to using it in health care environments, as well as a multitude of other uses.
iRig Mic with Klip for iPad and VocaLive
iKlip Studio for iPad mini is a new tabletop stand that follows in the footsteps of the iKlip Studio for iPad, a tabletop multi-angle holder for iPad and other 10” tablets. It offers the same great features and design, including an easily adjustable viewing angle, support for portrait or landscape mode, and the ability to fold up flat for total mobility. iKlip Studio for iPad mini can also hold other 7″ tablets such as the Kindle Fire, Galaxy Tab, and Nook, plus it can host a device with or without a case or protective cover.
iKlip Studio for iPad mini offers 8 viewing angle options in 10° increments: from a near vertical orientation to near horizontal, making it the perfect companion for any flat-surface application. It provides quick and easy set-up in seconds, and features non-slip feet that prevent unwanted movement of the device — securely holding it in place even when used with the most rigorous tap-intensive apps such as those used in music making or gaming.
iKlip Studio for iPad mini folds flat and fits easily in briefcases, carrying bags, backpacks and gig bags. With the line of IK microphones and apps like iRig MIC, iRig MIC Cast and iRig Recorder, any tablet can become an audio-capture-and-editing suite for podcasts, classroom lectures, boardroom meetings and presentations. When used with a wireless Bluetooth keyboard, the iKlip Studio for iPad mini is the perfect mobile workstation for tight spaces like airplane seats, crowded cafes, restaurants, lecture halls and library kiosks.
Pricing and Availability
The iKlip 2 for iPad and iKlip 2 for iPad mini are available now at electronic and music retailers around the world, and are both priced at $39.99 / €29.99 MSRP (excluding taxes). The iKlip Studio for iPad mini is priced at $29.99 / €24.99 MSRP (excluding taxes).
For more information, please visit:
Warm regards,
Starr Ackerman USA/CA/SA PR Manager 954-846-9101
IK Multimedia. Musicians First.
About IK Multimedia: IK Multimedia is a computer music technology company that offers a diverse range of affordable and easy-to-use music production tools with great sound quality and a realistic look and feel. With over one million installations worldwide, the IK range has been adopted by musicians of every level, from beginners to professionals, to gain access to high-end, studio-quality gear from their computers or mobile devices. iKlip 2 for iPad®, iKlip 2 for iPad mini® and iKlip Studio for iPad mini® are trademarks property of IK Multimedia Production. All other product names and trademarks are the property of their respective owners, which are in no way associated or affiliated with IK Multimedia. iPad®, and iPad mini®, are trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.