Monthly Archives: December 2016

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Bose SoundSport Pulse review: Fine sounding sports earphones

Audio & Video, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

In the current age of wearable technology it can be tempting for manufacturers to shove as many sensors and features into their products as possible. Watches are mini computers, bracelets can tell us if we’ve had enough sleep and earphones are slowly becoming full-on digital fitness coaches.

The Bose SoundSport Pulse come equipped with a heart-rate monitor, to act as a fitness tracker directly in your ears, while managing to stay true to Bose’s promise of quality audio. Are these sporty in-ears any good?

Bose SoundSport Pulse review: Design

  • 28 x 23 x 30mm; 64g
  • Carry case included
  • Built-in heart-rate monitor
  • In-line remote control

As in-ear headphones go, the Bose SoundSport Pulse are pretty chunky because the large plastic casing contains the battery, Bluetooth radios and audio drivers.

When placed into the ear, the big tooth-shaped exterior is hard to ignore, and almost feels unbalanced. Thankfully, they never fell out of our ears, and even if they did then the build and design is sturdy enough that we wouldn’t be worried about them breaking.

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This large black plastic exterior casing is covered in a grippy black plastic and attaches to the glossy polycarbonate earphone. On the right ear, this exterior housing plays home to the power/pairing button as well as the micro USB port, which is covered by a water-sealing flap.

On the left earbud, there’s nothing built on or into the black plastic housing, but there is a heart-rate sensor built into the underside of the earbud to read your pulse.

Like the Lightning connector-equipped JBL earphones we reviewed earlier in the year, the Bose SoundSport Pulse has squashed cone-shaped eartips. Think those cones you had to dribble a football around during PE lessons, make them tiny and use a grey soft silicone, and you’re there.

While it’s not an usual design for an in-ear headphone, this cone shape has its benefits. First of all, it’s more comfortable to have shoved in your ear canal than round ball-shaped tip. What’s more, because it gets wider towards the base, it does a better job of sealing off outside noise, and does it without feeling like you’re pushing all of the air out of your ears and creating an uncomfortable vacuum like so many other earbuds.

As is usually the case with in-ears, the SoundSport Pulse ships with three different sized ear tips. Curiously however, they’re built into the same piece of silicone as the fins that help the earphones stay in your ears. We can’t help but feel it would be better if they were separate, to make it a more customised fit. It does have one major upside this way though: it’s easy to remove and re-attach. You don’t have to mess with two fiddly, hard-to-apply bits of silicone.

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There’s a three-button inline remote built into the cable which attaches the two earbuds to each other, complete with a small clothing clip. This remote is placed about two inches below the right earbud, so is very easy to reach while jogging along, and the indented multi function button is easy to find without having to look with your eyes.

This remote features a microphone for hands-free calling, volume up/down buttons and a main central button used for playing, pausing and skipping tracks. It also happens to have a built-in NFC chip for automatic pairing with compatible Android phones.

Bose SoundSport Pulse review: App and fitness tracking

  • Bose app for quick wireless pairing
  • Third-party fitness apps only

Bose clearly knows what it’s good at: making quality sound. It’s not a fitness tracker company, so the built-in heart-rate monitor is designed to work with third-party apps.

You can connect the earphones in-app and then have real-time heart-rate data tracked by Strava, Endomondo, MapMyRun, Runkeeper or Under Armour’s Record. All the major bases covered there.

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Bose does have an app for SoundSport, called Connect, but it’s kept things simple. Once downloaded, it automatically detects the earphones are nearby (if they’re switched on), then simply drag down on the image of your earphones to connect them.

Disappointingly there’s no equaliser built into the Bose Connect app. Depending on which app you use for music streaming, however, you can adjust the balance with one of those. Spotify, for instance, has a load of preset audio settings.

Bose SoundSport Pulse review: Performance and connectivity

  • 9m/30ft wireless Bluetooth range
  • 4-hour battery life approx
  • USB charging

You can pair the SoundSport with multiple devices. We used them connected to a PC, OnePlus 3T, iPhone 7 Plus and the fourth-generation Apple TV. In each instance it remained connected and clear.

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More importantly, however, is that the SoundSport stay connected when out running. During our testing there was never a single instance of the audio dropping out, not even for a split second, which sometimes happens with Bluetooth earphones. And this was with the phone wrapped around the waist in a snug-fitting belt/pouch.

Bose promises five hours of playback on a fully charged battery, but in our testing it came up a little short. They needed charging after approximately four hours of use.

Bose SoundSport Pulse review: Sound

Bose has made something of a name for itself when it comes to sound quality. Despite being a pair of sports earphones the SoundSport Pulse continue that reputation with great balance of frequencies.

The audiophile might take a listen and think there’s too much bass, but it serves to provide a fullness and immersive feel to songs when out exercising. Mids and trebles are suitably levelled to produce tracks that are easy to enjoy, regardless of the genre of music.

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If there’s any criticism, it’s that sometimes the higher-end lacks a little clarity. It’s certainly not something you’ll care about while you’re getting your sweat during a 10k run, or bench-pressing the equivalent of a small bus at the gym. You’ll just be enjoying the fact that there are wireless sports headphones with no real compromises on sound.

Verdict

When choosing earphones to use while exercising there are three key features: they need to stay in your ears, they need to stay connected to the phone, and they need to sound good. The Bose Soundsport Pulse deliver in each of these key areas, plus they’re comfortable to wear.

Sure, they aren’t the most fully-featured fitness headphones on the market, but they don’t need to be. Bose has stuck to what it knows best, and by associating the built-in heart-rate monitor with popular third-party fitness apps rather than trying to create one of its own.

But above all else it’s that signature Bose sound quality that makes the SoundSport Pulse a winner.

Bose SportSound Pulse: Alternatives to consider

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Jabra Elite Sport

£229/$343.5

If you don’t mind forking out an extra £50/$75, you can grab the truly wireless Jabra Sport Elite earphones which – like the Bose set – have a built-in heart-rate monitor. However, these add to that with gyroscopes and sensors for measuring distance and cadence while you run. With the included battery pack case, you can get nearly nine hours of playback before needing to plug them in too.

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JBL Reflect Aware

£169/$253.5

They may not be wireless, and be iPhone exclusive (thanks to the Lightning connector), but the JBL Reflect Aware are very comfortable to wear, much lighter than the Bose and have secure fit in the ear.

(pocket-lint.com, https://goo.gl/XwZLqm)

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2017 Suzuki VanVan 200 Review

Cars, , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

First out in the 1970s, the VanVan from Suzuki has that charming retro look that screams UJM. Newly reintroduced here in the U.S., the VanVan gets a 200 cc engine, an upgrade from the old 125 cc model. In typical scrambler fashion, the VanVan 200 is the dirt-road/gravel-road/loose-dirt ride that qualifies it as a “sandbike” because of the fat rear tire that keeps you going.

Better than an ATV in some situations, the Vanvan is lightweight and capable, perfect for a jaunt around the ranch, a quick run up the trapline or an excursion down the beach — anywhere the ground is loose and four wheels just won’t do.

Design

Suzuki VanVan 200

It’s a typical-looking UJM (Universal Japanese Motorcycle) that was so popular back in the ’60s and ’70s with some modern techno to keep it real. Two-up seating is narrow and relatively low, making it easy to find the ground for those of us with short inseams.

Push-button starting made easy with the fuel-injected system shows its modern side, but I almost wish for an optional kick-start considering the intended use of the bike. If I’m away from the pavement, I like having low-tech options. While I’m thinking about a wishlist, how about some fold-down mirrors? That would be nice offroad  as well.

Instrumentation is easy to read and mounted high enough to be available at-a-glance. I hate it when I have to look down to see the gauges. The headlight is what you’d expect — classic round — though a dual set-up would suit me better, and I’ve never been a fan of the big, chunky taillight, but the better to see me with, I suppose. It’s retro and it looks retro. Maybe I’m being a little too critical today.

Chassis

Suzuki VanVan 200

Suzuki starts out with a diamond-style, tubular steel frame with a single downtube that uses the engine as a stressed member to complete the circuit, as it were. Not only does this lower the engine in the frame, but it completely eliminates a chunk of tubing which helps keep the overall weight down. Standard forks support the front on 33 mm tubes, and a single coil-over shock tames the yoke-style swingarm in back, both with 5.35 inches of wheel travel but nothing in the way of adjustability.

Laced aluminum rims mount balloon tires that are almost comically large for the bike with a 130/80-18 up front and a 180/80-14 in back, and the tires themselves come in an on-/off-road profile for a variety of options when considering where to ride.

A two-pot caliper binds the front brake disc, and Suzuki kicked it old-school with a mechanical drum to slow the rear wheel. Normally I would bemoan the drum at this point, but at less than 300 pounds soaking wet, even I have to admit it’s good enough in this case.

Drivetrain

Suzuki VanVan 200

Suzuki’s choice of propulsion also contributes to the low overall weight. Nothing says “keeping it simple” like an air-cooled thumper, and that’s exactly what we have here. The single-jug, four-stroke mill displaces a mere 199 cc with a single over-head cam to manage the valve timing. Not content to rely on cooling-fin radiation alone, the factory added an oil cooler for an extra layer of protection for the engine’s lifeblood.

Not so simple is the induction management. An electronic fuel-injection system meters the air-fuel ratio for economy and emissions, and Suzuki’s automatic idle speed control (ISC) makes for easy cold starts and stable idling with no input from the rider and a catalyst in the exhaust system that burns off any nastiness that escapes the combustion chamber. Sure, a carburetor would be even simpler, but that makes it tougher to meet emissions standards for road use, so here we are.

In spite of its small size, Suzuki stayed retro and treated the VanVan like its full-size bikes and used a manual transmission and clutch to send power to the rear wheel. It may have been tempting to throw some sort of scooter-like CVT unit on there, but since it comes with a conventional, manual setup, it definitely qualifies as a good trainer bike. Unlike the 125 cc version with its six-speed tranny, the VanVan 200 has a five-speed.

Pricing

Suzuki VanVan 200

MSRP on the 2017 VanVan 200 is an affordable $4,599. Available in Metallic Triton Blue and Metallic Matte Fibroin Gray, the VanVan comes with a 12-month, unlimited mileage, limited warranty.

Competitors

Yamaha TW200

Suzuki VanVan 200

The VanVan is more or less a mini scrambler, a look reinforced by the whole retro vibe it has going on, so I knew I wasn’t going to find a competitor based on looks alone. Once I got past that and considered designed purpose, engine size and price it didn’t take long to settle on the TW200 from Yamaha.

Right off we notice the more dirt-centric look of the TW200 , sort of a dirtbike-made-chubby by its truncated frame that leaves it with a short, 52.2-inch wheelbase, just a hair under the 54.5-inch wheelbase on the VanVan. In spite of the shorter length, the Yamaha carries its bench seat at 31.1-inches tall, almost a full inch higher than the 30.3-inch high Suzuki.

While the 5.35-inch suspension travel on the VanVan is probably plenty for most riders, Yamaha takes it up a notch with 5.9 inches of travel in the back and a whopping 6.3 inches of travel up front. Both bikes use a drum rear brake to supplement the front hydraulic disc, and both sport laced rims with fat, dual-purpose hoops that look like they would handle loose and soft surfaces such as sand like a boss.

The Yamaha mill gives up a mere 3 cubes to the 199 cc VanVan, and it sticks to the same air-cooled, one-lung format but with a 28 mm Mikuni carburetor to feed the beast. Call me old fashioned, but I’ll take the carb over fuel injection for simplicity. Both bikes run a standard, big-bike control layout complete with a manual clutch and five-speed, constant-mesh transmission to regulate speed and operating RPM.

Prices are identical at $4,599, which almost raises suspicion of collusion. (Just kidding guys, take it easy.) In the end, it really comes down to whether you want something that looks like a fairly modern mini-enduro bike, or something that looks more like a classic homemade scrambler.

Is there a winner? I might go for the more comfortable seat on the VanVan as the hard seat on the Yamaha just begs for you to be up on the pegs more than not.

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He Said

My husband and fellow motorcycle writer, TJ Hinton, says, “I gotta say that I’m liking the VanVan, maybe not so much for what it actually is, but more for the retro-tastic vibe that I don’t quite recognize, but feel like I should. It has a kind of ’70s-ishness that I find appealing, and it looks perfect for beach and riverbank shenanigans — the sort I’m a little too old for, to be honest.”

She Said

“Ha! I’m older than my husband and I’m down for some riverbank shenanigans, I assure you. This is a snappy little bike, well suited for places that don’t have pavement. It’s a 200 cc engine, so the more weight you pack on, the more it groans; but for run out to check the fenceline, camping on the beach, or a spin up the logging road, this bike is a blast.”

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Specifications

Engine:
Engine: 199cc, 4-stroke, air-cooled, 1 cylinder, SOHC
Fuel System: Suzuki fuel injection
Starter: Electric
Drive Train:
Transmission: 5-speed constant mesh
Chassis:
Suspension Front: Telescopic, coil spring, oil damped
Suspension Rear: Swingarm type, coil spring, oil damped
Brakes Front: Disc brake
Brakes Rear: Drum brake
Tires Front: 130/80-18 M/C 66P, tube type
Tires Rear: 180/80-14 M/C 78P, tube type
Fuel Tank Capacity: 6.5 L (1.7 US gal)
Electrical:
Ignition: Electronic ignition (CDI)
Dimensions and Curb Weight:
Overall Length: 2140 mm (84.3 in)
Overall Width: 865 mm (34.1 in)
Wheelbase: 1385 mm (54.5 in)
Ground Clearance: 220 mm (8.7 in)
Seat Height: 770 mm (30.3 in)
Curb Weight: 128.0 kg (282.2 lbs)
Warranty:
Warranty: 12-month, unlimited mileage, limited warranty*
Extensions: *Extensions available through Suzuki Extended Protection (SEP)
Details:
Color: Metallic Triton Blue & Metallic Matte Fibroin Gray
Price: $4,599

(topspeed.com, https://goo.gl/s5ZhNz)

Soundcast VG1 Bluetooth speaker review : Incredibly big sound from an itty-bitty waterproof box

Soundcast VG1 Bluetooth speaker review : Incredibly big sound from an itty-bitty waterproof box

Audio & Video, , , , ,

The Soundcast VG1 Bluetooth speaker delivers great sound in a small, rugged package that’s easy to take with you anywhere.

Kết quả hình ảnh cho Soundcast VG1 Bluetooth

Competition in the small Bluetooth speaker market is incredibly fierce, so any new model must deliver something compelling and special to break through and grab our attention. Soundcast meets that challenge in a major way with its rugged and waterproof VG1. It’s on the expensive side at $150, but it delivers big sound that belies its small proportions

The oblong enclosure measures just 7 inches wide and 2.5 inches thick and is wrapped in a soft-touch rubber material that makes it easy to grip. You can also attach a sturdy shoelace-style lanyard to its left side to make it even easier to carry. A pair of 2-inch full-range aluminum-cone drivers are mounted in the front of the cabinet, and a passive radiator behind those fires surprisingly thick bass out the back.
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Read full post here:
https://www.techhive.com/article/3150874/speakers/soundcast-vg1-bluetooth-speaker-review-incredibly-big-sound-from-an-itty-bitty-waterproof-box.html

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LeEco Le S3 review

Phones, , , , , , , , , ,

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The Le S3, the second widely available phone from Chinese phone/TV/video streaming/electronics/basically everything company LeEco, is a less expensive variant of the more powerful LePro 3. At $250 it’s relatively cheap, and packs in some pretty decent hardware. But it isn’t as good as the Moto G4 Plus, our current favorite for the price range. (UK and Australian details have yet to be announced but the US price converts to £200 or AU$340.)

A few things I liked:

  • Clean design: At sub-$300 you’d expect a cheap-feeling phone made out of plastic. But the S3 has a polished aluminum body and shiny metallic trimmings that give it a smart look.
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    Read full post here:
    https://www.cnet.com/reviews/leeco-le-s3-review/
Z201YS – A Mini Foldable RC Quadcopter Review

Z201YS – A Mini Foldable RC Quadcopter Review

Cameras,

The Z201YS has a really strange shape, like a peculiar ball with 3 propellers ready to fly away!

Design

The Z201YS comes at a really strange shape, like an egg or something like that, in black, silver and white. It can fold its arms with the propellers and use them what you like. It’s size normally is 5 x 5 x 3cm ( folded ) and 8 x 8 x 3cm ( unfolded ) and the weight is just 25g
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Read full post here:
https://www.igeekphone.com/review-of-the-z201ys-a-mini-foldable-rc-quadcopter-coupon-included/

Andoer 4K action camera vs Yi 4K action camera – A 4K battle between the best camera

Andoer 4K action camera vs Yi 4K action camera – A 4K battle between the best camera

Cameras, , , , , ,

Yi and Andoer are two well known companies for the cameras. Their latest announcement from the 4K category are both good. Yi 4K action camera and Andoer 4K action camera can capture in true 4K color your extreme activities anywhere you are. But let us have a step by step comparison to see who is the best to take with!

Design

The Yi 4K action camera is equipped with a 2.19” retina touchscreen display at the back, with instant reaction. IT has slot for entering external card with up to 128GB. If you buy the waterproof case, you can use it up to 45 meters deep for shooting images and video. The camera comes at black color, with dimensions 6.3 x 4 x 3cm and weight 8.9g
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Read full post here:
https://www.igeekphone.com/andoer-4k-action-camera-vs-yi-4k-action-camera-a-4k-battle-between-the-best-camera-coupon-included/

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2017 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium Review: Everyone’s SUV

Cars, , , , , , , ,

The 2017 Subaru Forester is perhaps the perfect encapsulation of why this tiny Japanese automaker has been able to boast year-after-year growth that would shame industry heavyweights like Toyota, Honda, and Ford. The current generation Forester’s 2014 redesign coincided perfectly with the surging demand for small SUVs that were both affordable and ultra-practical, with the Subaru’s boxy shape smoothed out by a fresh-look exterior design and a range of more efficient drivetrains.

That the Forester’s sales almost doubled – and stayed doubled – in the ensuing years is no surprise to anyone familiar with the brand, which has spent much of the last two decades further refining the crossover sport-utility segment that it helped define in the mid-90s. For 2017, the Subaru Forester carries forward all of the character that has made it a hit, while simultaneously introducing a handful of styling changes and cabin upgrades alongside a meaningful fuel mileage bump.
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Read full post here:
https://www.slashgear.com/2017-subaru-forester-2-5i-premium-review-everyones-suv-20467990/

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Emotiva Airmotiv 5CH Speaker System Review

Audio & Video, , , ,

There’s been plenty of ink spilled, print and digital, in Sound & Vision and elsewhere, about Tennessee’s direct-to-consumer brand Emotiva and the disruptive pricing the company has brought to various audio categories. To date, this has been mostly focused on electronics, where power amps, preamps, pre/pros, and DACs have been offered up for surprisingly small sums that seem to belie their inherent engineering and build quality. Corner company founder Dan Laufman about how he does it, and he’ll enthusiastically share his prior life as an OEM for other audio brands (many of which you know well) and how he’s learned a few tricks about where and how to stretch raw material costs in the most meaningful ways. He’ll go on about the firm’s focus on in-house design. Beyond this, there’s the efficient manufacturing, done domestically at Emotiva’s Nashville headquarters and abroad. Then, there’s the (mostly) web-direct product distribution. But, in the end, it all seems to come down to this: Laufman just doesn’t think good audio kit should cost so much, and he’s willing to sell his widgets for a bit—or a lot—less money, rather than compete directly with likequality products at their higher price points.
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Read full post here:
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/emotiva-airmotiv-5ch-speaker-system-review-specs#vYD3t8DiJivZapAo.97

Lenovo ZUK Edge VS Xiaomi MI MIX Comparisons Review

Lenovo ZUK Edge VS Xiaomi MI MIX Comparisons Review

Phones, , , , , , , , , , ,

Yesterday Lenovo finally released its year-end flagship smartphone, Lenovo ZUK Edge, although it called ‘Edge’, it is not a curved smartphone, the biggest highlight of Lenovo ZUK Edge is the screen to body ratio up to 86.4%, which can be the best rival of Xiaomi MI MIX. Of course, you can also check Xiaomi MI MIX VS Huawei Magic Review first. And in terms of the design, ZUK Edge can be considered as the combination of ZUK Z2 and Z2 Pro. Because it has ZUK Z2 dual curved 2.5D glass and Z2 Pro mid-metal frame. As for the specs, ZUK Edge is also its own first Snapdragon 821 processor flagship with RAM 6GB ROM 64GB internal storage, and the price is at 2,299 yuan which is highly competitive compared with Xiaomi MI MIX. In addition, its home button uses touch screen which is not pressed. So will Lenovo ZUK Edge is more worthwhile to have a try than Xiaomi MI MIX?
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Read full post here:
https://www.igeekphone.com/lenovo-zuk-edge-vs-xiaomi-mi-mix-design-antutu-camera-battery-review/

The best VR headsets for iPhone users : Because iOS users can join the big VR party too

The best VR headsets for iPhone users : Because iOS users can join the big VR party too

Wearables, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The VR headset revolution is underway and just because you own an iPhone rather than an Android smartphone doesn’t mean you can’t get involved.

Apple doesn’t have its own VR headset (yet), Google Cardboard has stolen a lot of the limelight when it comes to mobile virtual reality and Google Daydream is impressing in its early days. But many of the new breed of super-cheap headsets (apart from Daydream View) are iPhone compatible, and support most handsets from the last couple of years, from the iPhone 5S to the new iPhone 7.

While mobile VR headsets obviously have nothing on the likes of the HTC Vive or Oculus Rift, Cardboard-style sets have the chance to encourage large numbers of potential users to get on board with virtual reality. Apps wise, you can access Cardboard apps, YouTube 360, Facebook’s 360 videos and more. So what better place to start than with one of these iPhone-friendly headsets?
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Read full post here:
https://www.wareable.com/vr/best-iphone-virtual-reality-setup

Harley-Davidson Road Glide Ultra vs. Indian Roadmaster - COMPARISON TEST

Harley-Davidson Road Glide Ultra vs. Indian Roadmaster – COMPARISON TEST

Cars, , ,

There’s been a lot of talk about “bug-out bikes” lately—as in which is the perfect motorcycle to escape a natural (or unnatural) disaster. Earthquake? Tsunami? Political upheaval? Get on your go-anywhere adventure-tourer and leave it all behind.

Harley-Davidson Road Glide Ultra and Indian Roadmaster

That’s not a dragon, silly, it’s a serpent. We know because this creature didn’t have wings and didn’t breathe fire. It left us alone after we tossed it some leftover tater tots from the Road Glide’s side bag.

Which is all well and fine should your world go to hell, but what if you’re actually going to Hell? You don’t want to roll up on Beelzebub astride some oversize orange dirt bike. No, you need a motorcycle that makes the proper statement. And nothing speaks louder than a badass big-inch V-twin. That’s where the Harley-Davidson Road Glide Ultra and IndianRoadmaster come in.
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Read full post here:
https://www.cycleworld.com/harley-davidson-road-glide-ultra-vs-indian-roadmaster-touring-motorcycle-comparison-test

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2016 Ducati Diavel Review

Cars, , , ,

In “Sport” mode, give the throttle a twist and you’ll quickly see why the Diavel has a deep saddle. If it didn’t, you’re butt would slide off the back and you’d be holding on for dear life with one wheel in the air.

The Diavel is Ducati ’s second venture into the cruiser market — the Indiana being the first — but I’m not sure the designers have the same idea of what a cruiser is as the American motorcycling public thinks about a cruiser. I’m not saying it’s a bad thing; I’m just saying it’s different. In fact, I’m really not saying it’s a bad thing; just the opposite. I’m kinda digging this sport-power-cruiser hybrid.
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Read full post here:
https://www.topspeed.com/motorcycles/motorcycle-reviews/ducati/2016-ducati-diavel-ar170950.html

Onkyo E200BT Review - The Good Affordable Good Wireless IEM?

Onkyo E200BT Review – The Good Affordable Good Wireless IEM?

Audio & Video, Wearables, , , , , ,

Over the past few years, we witness how wireless audio evolved for the better. From mostly expensive mediocre sounding earpieces to something more affordable that actually sounds decent even from mostly unforgiving audiophiles.

Enter Onkyo, a well respected Japanese audio brand with the release of E200BT. It’s an affordable Bluetooth 4.1 powered earphones with microphone that features higher-end looks, twisted braided cables, and a custom designed 8.6 mm speaker driver to deliver great sound quality.

Will wireless IEM continue the trend of affordable decent sounding earphones? Let’s check it out!
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Read full post here:
https://www.gizguide.com/2016/12/onkyo-e200bt-review.html

Kata i5 Review - A Proper Upgrade?

Kata i5 Review – A Proper Upgrade?

Phones,

Kata recently launched a line of new phones for the holidays and we couldn’t wait to right all about them. Right now, we have the Kata i5 LTE with a decent spec-sheet for the sub PHP 8K price point.

Kata i5 Unboxing And First Impressions - A Sub 8K Phone Contender?
The classic fish out of water logo!

With an SRP of just PHP 7,999 with materials made of metal and 2.5D with specs that matches most of its the competition easily. Will this be the PHP 7,999 phone to beat? Let’s see!

Unboxing / Accessories

Metal back plate with premium matte paper packaging

The i5 comes with the familiar packaging found with most kata phones with the signature fish logo and Kata branding on all sides.
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Read full post here:
https://www.gizguide.com/2016/12/kata-i5-review.html

CHUWI LapBook VS YEPO 737S Comparisons Review

CHUWI LapBook VS YEPO 737S Comparisons Review

Computers & IT, , , , , ,

Light notebooks are the ones that most users pursue. It is good news that right now those notebooks have become more and more powerful with more favorable price due to Christmas Festival, and New Year. So it’s your best time to catch one before this year. Today we highly recommend two tablet PCs,Chuwi Lapbook  and t Yepo 737S . So let’s see which one is more worthwhile to choose.

Design

Kết quả hình ảnh cho CHUWI LapBook VS YEPO 737S Comparisons Review

CHUWI LapBook has 37.10 x 23.97 x 2.20 cm dimensions, 9.2mm ultra-thin design, 1860g weight, which is quite exquisite and light. It comes with 15.6 inch FHD screen, which is good for watching videos with large screen size, and the screen resolution can also improve watching quality. However, YEPO 737S just has 33.50 x 22.50 x 1.80 cm dimensions, 1.250 kg weight, which is lighter and thinner, which is similar to Apple Macbook, but it only has 13.3 inch FHD Screen with 1920 x 1080 Resolution, so it’s up to you for choosing a larger or smaller one.
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Read full post here:
https://www.igeekphone.com/review-of-chuwi-lapbook-vs-yepo-737s-design-hardware-features-battery-coupon/

JXD 515V – A Mini RC Quadcopter Review

JXD 515V – A Mini RC Quadcopter Review

Cameras, , ,

The JXD 515V looks like a hyper-sonic futuristic spaceship because of its design and color. It comes with a protective frame around the propellers, so if you are a beginner, you can fly it indoors with safety and without the fear that it will brake. Furthermore, it features a 0.3MP aerial camera and altitude hold function for superb photos.

Design

The JXD 515V has a really nice and futuristic design. Made out of good quality plastic and with the camera onboard, weights 1.250 kg. The dimensions of the JXD 515V are 13.80 x 13.80 x 5.00 cm. It comes in two color, black/blue and black/green, but I have to admit that black/green looks much more fantastic to the eye!
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Read full post here:
https://www.igeekphone.com/review-of-the-jxd-515v-a-mini-rc-quadcopter/

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2017 Volvo V60 Cross Country review

Cars, , , ,

Volvo’s stunning XC90 SUV and S90 sedan leave many of its older cars, like this V60 Cross Country, in a somewhat uncomfortable place. These cars are a link to earlier days for Volvo, remnants of its Ford ownership and somewhat more humble styling. They’re still great machines, but driving one you’re left wondering just how long it’ll be before they, too, are reborn into the same, classier look and performance of Gothenberg’s latest.

2017-volvo-v60-cross-country-engine

But don’t let such doubts dissuade you from including the $42,000 V60 Cross Country on your list if you’re looking for a solid tall-rounder. This lifted wagon has the capacity and comfort to get you through just about everything life has too offer, plus enough off-road chops to handle the worst that a New England winter can throw your way.
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Read full post here:
https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/reviews/2017-volvo-v60-cross-country-review/

Lenovo IdeaCentre AIO Y910 Review : Gaming All-in-One Greatness

Lenovo IdeaCentre AIO Y910 Review : Gaming All-in-One Greatness

Computers & IT, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Kết quả hình ảnh cho Lenovo IdeaCentre AIO Y910

Gaming all-in-ones often feel like a big compromise: Many of these machines feature huge, gorgeous screens, but those displays usually can’t do a whole lot because of their weak graphics muscles. With Lenovo’s IdeaCentre AIO Y910, that’s no longer the case. This is a full-fledged gaming PC in every way, featuring a VR-ready Nvidia GeForce GTX 1080 graphics card, a fast Intel Core i7 processor and an upgradable design that lets you swap in newer components over time. Factor in its 3D-scanning RealSense camera, sharp quad-HD display and reasonable price, and you’ve got the ultimate all-in-one for gamers.

Design

The IdeaCentre Y910 finds a sweet spot between the hyperaggressive design of Lenovo’s Y Series gaming products and the company’s more family-oriented all-in-ones. The PC’s scaly vents and red “Y” logos aren’t nearly as pronounced as they are on Lenovo’s gaming towers, and I really dig the subtle red highlights of the harman/kardon speakers just below the display.
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Read full post here:
https://www.tomsguide.com/us/lenovo-ideacentre-aio-y910,review-4104.html

Xiaomi Redmi Note 4 VS Redmi Note 3 Smartphone Review

Xiaomi Redmi Note 4 VS Redmi Note 3 Smartphone Review

Phones, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

On August 25, Xiaomi has cooperated with China Mobile to release a new phone, Redmi note 4 smartphone, which is the new edition of Xiaomi Redmi Note 3. So which is the better one? And which one is more worthwile to have a try? Let’s check what are main difference between Redmi Note 4 and Redmi Note 3.

Specs comparison

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According to hardware comparison, we can see this Redmi Note 4 has upgraded the processor, so the performance will have improvement, we will let you know by Antutu test, besides CPU, there are no big difference , even the price. In addition, the storage, battery, network, body color, and other features are also similar. So it’s very hard to see the difference from their specs, Redmi Note 4 and Redmi Note 3.

Design

In terms of design, Redmi Note 3 is the first one to use all metal body, due to the first one, the design will be not so ripe, first, the front design comes with 2.5D curved glass, there is no symmetrical design on the screen, the bottom still uses traditional three virtual buttons.

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Redmi note 3 front design

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Redmi note 3 back design

Redmi Note 3 has nice back design to use classic three step metal back cover with  sand metallic plastic up and down, the middle part shows the metal material, and the back uses curved processing with good grip feeling. So the back design is good.

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Redmi Note 4 front design

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Redmi note 4 back design

About Xiaomi Redmi note 4, it has been designed more ripe based on Redmi Note 3, first it is equipped with 2.5D curved glass, and thinner frame, there is symmetrical design on the screen in addition, the bottom will still use three traditional virtual button. In terms of front design, Redmi Note 4 and Redmi note 3 have two details about change.

On the back, Redmi note 4 doesn’t use three step metal design but all metal back cover, it uses  9 Series CNC diamond cutting similar to Redmi Pro, and the body design uses in symmetry. The holding feel and visual are more excellent, which can be one of the best budget phone under 200usd.

Therefore, Redmi Note 4 has obvious upgrading in design compared with Redmi Note 3, the front design uses 2.5D curved glass, symmetrical design, the back is equipped with CNC diamond cutting all metal back cover with better quality and more beautiful design. So Redmi Note 4 looks better than Redmi note 3.

Hardware

Redmi Note 3 has two versions according to processor, Helio X10 version and Snapdragon 650 version, Redmi Note 4 has standard version and advanced version, both are powered by Helio X20 Deca core processor.

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Redmi Note 3 Netcom version Antutu score: 76,585 (Snapdragon 650)

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Redmi Note 3 Dual 4G Antutu score: 50,694 points (Helio X10)

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Redmi Note 4 Antutu score: 84,934 points

Therefore, according to antutu test, Redmi Note 4 performance is better than Redmi Note 3 obviously.

Network, Battery, Price

As for network, Redmi note 4 supports Netcom, Dual SIM card, dual standby and 4G VoLTE, but Redmi Note 3 only has Snapdragon 650 version to support netcom, Helio X10 version only supports TD and FDD 4G LTE, so in terms of network, Redmi Note 4 also has upgraded a little.

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In battery, Redmi Note 4 and Redmi Note 3 are both built in 4,100mAh battery, both smartphones don’t support quick charge, they can support at least one day use.

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In price, Redmi Note 4 is similar to Note 3 at 899 yuan, $150. In addition, they are also similar in other features such as all metal body, fingerprint scanner, but no USB Type C port.

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Conclusion

According to overall comparison, Redmi Note 4 has upgraded in design and performance compared with Redmi Note 3, and they sell at same price, so we highly recommend you buying Redmi Note 4 now.

(igeekphone.com, https://goo.gl/Y6fW84)

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Arcam Solo Movie 2.1 review

Audio & Video, , , , , , , , ,

Since the experimental emergence of multi-channel surround sound in 1952’s This is Cinerama (ironically a documentary made to showcase a new widescreen projection format), the technology has arguably enriched movie watching more than anything else – including popcorn.

Superman no longer has to sound like he’s flying in tiny circles around the front of a room, and soundfields can be so enveloping you instinctively duck for cover when bullets fly over your head.

Alas, a 2.1-channel home cinema set-up (simply a stereo presentation with the addition of a subwoofer) today may seem antiquated in the face of 5.1, 7.1 channel and Dolby Atmos configurations.

But we are far from resigning the format to the Museum of Idle Technology, for it’s still worthwhile to those without the space or even desire for surround sound.
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Read full post here:
https://www.whathifi.com/arcam/solo-movie-21-2016/review

 

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2016 Aprilia Shiver 750 Review

Cars, , , , , ,

Aprilia started out life building scooters. Now the brand falls under the Piaggio umbrella, and it sort of serves as the “racing division” for the company. As such, one would expect some fairly race-tastic features, even on such a small engine, an assertion backed up by recent wins in Qatar by Aprilia racers Jordi Torres (who unfortunately crashed out in a later round) and Leon Haslam.

The company doesn’t come out and say it, but I consider the 2016 Shiver 750 to be the closest thing to an entry-level motorcycle that it offers, unless you count the SR Motard scooter (I do not). Back in ’07, the original Shiver was widely regarded as entry-level champagne at beer prices, and it pioneered the nearly ubiquitous, ride-by-wire throttle control system now seen on most top-end rides. The factory has had a few years now to polish the Shiver, so let’s see how it’s coming along, shall we?
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Read full post here:
https://www.topspeed.com/motorcycles/motorcycle-reviews/aprilia/2016-aprilia-shiver-750-ar170980.html

Netgear R7000 Router Review

Netgear R7000 Router Review

Wearables, , ,

Kết quả hình ảnh cho Netgear R7000 Router Review

Netgear’s Nighthawk AC 1900 Smart WiFi Router, better known as the R7000, is for those who need to save a few bucks while creating an up-to-date wireless network. At $190, it’s priced about $100 less than the competition (including Netgear’s own R8000) and delivers strong throughput, but can’t match the range of other 802.11ac routers.

Design

At 11.2 x 7.3 x 2.0 inches, the black, angled Netgear R7000 looks like a smaller version of the company’s R8000. Three finlike antennas attached to the back use beam-forming technology to optimize the signal. They can be aimed to grab the strongest signal or unscrewed and replaced with third-party options.
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Read full post here:
https://www.tomsguide.com/us/netgear-r7000-router,review-2493.html

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Klipsch Reference On-Ear II review

Audio & Video, , , ,

The Klipsch Reference On-Ear II is the follow up to last year’s excellentReference On-Ear model. Klipsch’s latest pair of cans don’t change much in terms of design or sound – but why fix something that’s not broken?

That said, Klipsch kept it simple with the Reference On-Ear II, concentrating on sound, comfort and portability that will please audiophiles. But for everyone else, the Klipsch Reference On-Ear II are possibly too expensive for what they offer, especially when the original On-Ears are going for just $50 in the US.

At $199 (about £177, AU$256), only diehard audiophiles will even consider this wired-only headphone. But those who value sound and comfort above all else will be happy with the Klipsch Reference On Ear II.
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Read full post here:
https://www.techradar.com/reviews/klipsch-reference-on-ear-ii

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RAZER BLADE PRO REVIEW

Computers & IT, , , , , , , , ,

When Razer made its first laptop, it was a company best known for selling third-party gamepads and high-performance gaming mice. Premium gimmicks were the name of the game. The company routinely released products with 17 buttons, adjustable tension analog sticks or retractable parts. This flair for novelty carried over to Razer’s first gaming notebook, which featured a set of 10 customizable keyboard buttons that each housed its own tiny LED display. It was neat, but the flagship laptop was soon overshadowed by a smaller, more powerful model. Now, the company is finally giving its original notebook the upgrades it deserves: a screaming new processor, the latest in graphics technology and a keyboard without the hindrance of the original’s silly “Switchblade” interface. This is the new Razer Blade Pro.
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Read full post here:
https://www.engadget.com/2016/12/19/razer-blade-pro-review-2016/

honda-grom-exhaust-muffler-tyga-short-low-mount-carbon-fiber-msx-125-motorcycle-mini-sport-bike-streetfighter-6

2017 Honda Grom Review

Cars, , , , , , ,

Introduced in 2014, the Grom from Honda is a compact bike with sportbike styling, two-up capabilities if you don’t mind having to Fred-Flintstone the take-off, has amazing fuel economy, and offers a little something more for folks who might consider a scooter in this size-range.

Marketed in other countries as the MSX125, the Motrac M3, and the Skyteam M3, the Grom is a spunky little —little being the operative word here — motorcycle, good for folks new to two wheels or for anyone else who wants a fun ride. It’s not fast, but that’s not the point.

Design

I know folks call this a monkey bike . I don’t share that opinion. The original monkey bikes were Honda’s Z-series bikes: small, almost toy-like, minibikes from the ’70s and ’80s. They had 50 cc engines, fat five-inch tires and a seat height of about 22 inches. With handlebars that pulled the rider forward and the low seat that splayed the knees out at comical angles, riders were said to look like monkeys atop the little bikes.
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Read full post here:
https://www.topspeed.com/motorcycles/motorcycle-reviews/honda/2017-honda-grom-ar168605.html

Lenovo Ideapad 110S Review

Lenovo Ideapad 110S Review

Computers & IT, , , , , , , ,

Designed to be a secondary PC for adults or a first computer for kids, Lenovo’s $199 Ideapad 110S packs a modest Intel Celeron CPU, an accurate touchpad and a responsive keyboard into its lightweight plastic chassis. The company also throws in a one-year subscription to Office 365 Personal, a $70 value.

Despite shortcomings such as below-average battery life and last-gen Wi-Fi, the 110S is a good value for the money. However, as long as it’s still for sale, Lenovo’s older Ideapad 100s is a stronger choice for those who want longer battery life with a little less performance.
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Read full post here:
https://www.laptopmag.com/reviews/laptops/lenovo-ideapad-110s

Canary Flex security camera review : The perfect companion to the original Canary

Canary Flex security camera review : The perfect companion to the original Canary

Cameras, , , , , , , ,

The Canary Flex is a no brainer if you’ve already bought into the Canary ecosystem, but there are better alternatives for first-time security camera buyers.

Kết quả hình ảnh cho Canary Flex

Canary’s second home security product, the Canary Flex, isn’t as ambitious as its first. It’s a small indoor/outdoor camera with a magnetic mount, and it can operate on either battery or AC power. It has night vision, a passive infrared motion sensor, a three-axis accelerometer, an onboard mic, and a currently non-functional speaker, but it doesn’t have a siren or any of the environmental sensors that are packed into its strictly indoor stablemate. You don’t need to own the original Canary to deploy the Canary Flex, but the Flex is a terrific companion for that device if you do.

The Canary Flex is supremely easy to set up. Once you’ve installed the app on your smartphone, it will link to the camera via Bluetooth LE and then sniff out nearby Wi-Fi networks. Tell it which one to join, provide the network password, and you’re done.
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Read full post here:
https://www.techhive.com/article/3151115/security-cameras/canary-flex-review-the-perfect-companion-to-the-original-canary.html

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2017 Victory Octane Review

Cars, , , ,

Victory uses its success in the power-cruisersector as a springboard into the burgeoning, performance-oriented American-made bike market. The Victory Octane leads the charge against opponents such as the V-Rod from Harley-Davidson , and perhaps the Indian Scout, and is meant for buyers looking for a domestic muscle bike that doesn’t fit in the Harley Breakout or Star Raider mold — buyers who are looking for something a little more progressive and a little less constrained by classic design considerations.

This is an important step for Victory since H-D is still king of the cruisers with Indian close behind and there isn’t a lot of room in the market for more cruisers, especially since the aforementioned companies are packing more punch into their powerplants nowadays. I believe Victory has found a niche, and is attempting to fill it. Let’s take a look at the filling, shall we?
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Read full post here:
https://www.topspeed.com/motorcycles/motorcycle-reviews/victory/2017-victory-octane-ar171009.html

Cherry Mobile Defender Review : Rough And Tumble Phone

Cherry Mobile Defender Review : Rough And Tumble Phone

Phones, , , ,

Despite the indispensable nature of smartphones today, they’re still fragile devices. Sure, there are phones that you can buy right now that can be dropped in tubs full of water (or a toilet bowl) and survive, but even they’re susceptible to accidental drops and spills from the chronically clumsy. Enter Cherry Mobile’s Defender, a smartphone that’s built like a tank that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg, yet still has features that most people look for.

cherry-mobile-defender-05

Built like a tank, and feels like it

The Defender isn’t a pretty phone. It’s made out of a combination of rubber and metal, and is incredibly thick, measuring in at 16.6mm. That extra thickness makes it incredibly bulky, and despite having a relatively small 4.7-inch display, using it one-handed is quite a challenge even for people with bigger than average mitts. It’s also incredibly heavy – you can probably use this phone to bludgeon a robber to death, if need be.
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Read full post here:
https://www.unbox.ph/gadget/cherry-mobile-defender-review-rough-and-tumble-phone/

soundmagic_e80

SoundMagic E80C review

Audio & Video, , ,

Following on from the success of the Award-winning SoundMagic E10Cs, it’s the turn of the E80Cs in-ears to make their mark in the overpopulated headphones market.

At £80/$120, the SoundMagic E80Cs are double the price of the E10Cs, but do they deliver a better performance for the money?

Sound

Clear, solid and open – those are our first impressions of the E80Cs. Play Semisonic’s Closing Time, and the vocals, guitar strums, and keyboards all come through loud and clear.

A decent amount of detail keeps you listening, and the outlines of notes and instruments are cleanly defined.

The headphones are organised enough to handle the sweeping orchestral compositions of Michael Giacchino’s Star Trek Beyond soundtrack, with horns bleating cleanly above the thump of big drums.
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Read full post here:
https://www.whathifi.com/soundmagic/e80c/review