Sunday, August 31, 2008

Omron HEM-780N3 Automatic Blood Pressure Monitor with ComFit Cuff

Not only does the HEM-780N3 Automatic Blood Pressure Monitor utilize Omron's patented IntelliSense technology, but it also features the innovative Comfit Cuff. The ComFit Cuff is pre-formed for a quick and proper fit that is perfect for both medium and large-sized arms (nine to 17 inches). It's easy to apply the cuff to your arm without any assistance -- simply wrap the cuff around your arm and press start. In seconds your blood pressure and pulse are displayed on the large digital panel. Proven time and time again, Omron's IntelliSense technology ensures accurate, clinically-proven, and comfortable readings. And with a 90-memory recall with date and time stamp, you can track your blood pressure and pulse progress as your work towards a healthier lifestyle.

Omron HEM-780N3 Automatic Blood Pressure Monitor with ComFit Cuff

Product Features

* Cleared by the FDA to help detect morning hypertension
* IntelliSense monitor inflates cuff to the ideal level with each use
* Large digital panel displays blood pressure and pulse readings
* Cuff fits arms 9 to 17 inches in circumference
* Main unit measures 5.16 x 3.31 x 6.09 inches (WxHxD)

Customer feedback:

1. I haven't had the chance to conpare this unit to the readings at the doctors office (taking them at the same time). But I have taken readings at the drug store and then 5 min later taking it at home. It does seem to give true readings. They has never been any really off readings. No wild swings.
It is very easy to use and comes with good instructions and a nice carrying case. Makes it easy to take on vacation with you. AC adapter makes it where you don't have to worry about dead batteries.

2. Just received, put it together and checked BP without even readng the instructions. Compared to a manual reading, accurate with in 6mm hg. Even comes with batteries. Over all a great monitor and one I would recommend for my patients.

Omron HEM-629 Portable Wrist Blood Pressure Monitor

The lightweight, portable HEM-629 Portable Wrist Blood Pressure Monitor measures blood pressure and pulse from the wrist with completely automatic inflation and deflation. Operation is as simple as pushing a button. Simply wrap the cuff around your wrist and press the "START" button. In seconds, your blood pressure and pulse rate appear on the large, easy to read digital display. Cuff fits wrists 5-1/4 to 7-3/4 in circumference. Outer Dimensions - Approximately 1-1/2H x 3 x 3. Includes instruction manual, carrying case. Limited five year warranty

Product Features

* Fourteen memory storage
* Watch style design
* Powered by 2 AAA batteries (included)
* Battery Life - Approximately one year when used once a day for two minutes
* Weight - Approximately five ounces with batteries

Omron HEM-629 Portable Wrist Blood Pressure Monitor

Customer feedback:

1. A doctor and myself measured readings done manually and readings done by this little machine, and found either way to be only a couple of numbers different.
My mom loves it, and we found the same model on Amazon for alot cheaper than 100.00. I have had poor experiences with another wrist blood pressure monitor that was 39.99. This little Omron is quick, easy, and correct. Some of it's features: If you move your arm while you take the blood pressure, it shows an E for error. The batteries last about three motnhs. On this model, there is no battery indicator. It stores over 10 blood pressure readings. It also measures the pulse. There's no date or time stamp, but I didn't have good luck with the model with that feature.
To me, every house should have one of these cuffs, not the cheaper priced cuffs that donot work. I've used it at home and at work consistently, and I will buy the exact same cuff again. I hope Omron doesn't stop making them.

2. This is a great product. My stepfather has developed very thin skin as he has gotten older and has to have his BP taken frequently every day. The regular arm cuff has caused quite a bit of damage to his arm. This cuff is around the wrist where the skin is a little thicker, thus saving his skin and not having to worry about infections to his upper arm. Also love the large digits on the screen. He is much happier and more willing to have his BP taken now. Thank you, Omron!

Omron HEM-637 Wrist Blood Pressure Monitor with Advanced Positioning Sensor

Not only does the HEM-637 Wrist Blood Pressure Monitor utilize Omron's patented IntelliSense technology, but it also features the innovative Advanced Positioning Sensor (APS). With the APS system, this wrist unit will ensure correct cuff placement before your blood pressure is taken. The monitor is incredibly easy to use -- simply wrap the cuff around your wrist, press start, and let the APS system guide the cuff to the proper placement at heart level. In seconds, your blood pressure and pulse are displayed on the large digital screen. Proven time and time again, Omron's IntelliSense technology ensures accurate, clinically-proven, and comfortable readings. And with a 90 memory recall you can track your blood pressure and pulse progress as you work towards a healthier lifestyle.
There are several easy steps to taking your blood pressure with this monitor. First of all, avoid eating, smoking, and exercising for at least 30 minutes before taking a measurement. Stress raises blood pressure, so avoid taking measurements during stressful times. Also, measurements should be taken in a quiet place. You should be in a relaxed, seated position with your feet flat on the floor. Before you take your measurement, rest comfortably in a relaxed environment for at least 15 minutes.

Omron HEM-637 Wrist Blood Pressure Monitor with Advanced Positioning Sensor

Product Features

* Automatic wrist monitor is the simplest way to take blood pressure readings at home
* IntelliSense monitor inflates cuff to the ideal level with each use
* Large digital panel displays blood pressure and pulse readings
* Cuff fits arms 9 to 13 inches in circumference
* Main unit measures 3 x 2.5 x 1.5 inches (WxHxD), not including wrist cuff

Customer feedback:

1. I've never needed to use a blood pressure monitor before so I was a bit unsure about it. Once I figured out the correct arm position, using this monitor is very easy.

2. I've never needed to use a blood pressure monitor before so I was a bit unsure about it. Once I figured out the correct arm position, using this monitor is very easy. It keeps a log of readings that I can take in to my doctor. The readings are very consistent. I would definitely recommend this product.

Omron Body Fat Monitor and Scale

The Omron HBF-400 Fat Loss Monitor with Scale is the perfect way to track your weight loss goals, thanks to its fast, accurate measurement of weight, body fat percentage, and body mass index (BMI). Just step on the HBF-400 and in seconds you'll have much of the information that's vital to any weight loss or weight maintenance program.
The HBF-400 supports up to four personal profiles, so each member of your family can track their own measurements independently. Plus, an easy-to-read and large digital display makes it a snap to get the information you need. The weight display measures weight up to 330 pounds in .2-pound increments, while body fat percentage can be measured from 5 to 60 percent in .1 percent increments.
One of the keys to weight loss and management is tracking your body mass index, or BMI. The HBF-400 rates your BMI from 7.0 to 90.0 in .1 increments. BMI is classified at three levels: underweight, normal, overweight, and obese.

Omron Body Fat Monitor and Scale

Product Features
Size: HBF-400

* Provides accurate measurement of weight, body fat percentage, and body mass index (BMI)
* Supports up to four personal profiles, so each member of your family can track their own measurements
* BMI classified at three levels: underweight, normal, overweight, and obese
* Provides measurements for people of nearly all heights (3'4" to 6' 6-3/4") and nearly all ages (10 to 79 years)
* Measures 12.2 x 11.8 x 2.1 inches (L x W x H)

Customer feedback:

1. As a scale the Omron HBF-500 is excellent. It is consistent, in tests with my wife and I (who are more than 100 pounds different in weight) the scale gave the same weight each of 5 times in a row that we stepped on it. So it is consistent. I am a nurse and weighed myself on our calibrated scales and found that this scale weighed me 0.5 pounds heavier than the hospital one, which can be explained by the glass of water I drank when I got home. So it is both consistent and accurate.
So what about the body fat monitor: As to the accuracy of the monitor I cannot speak. However, it is very consistent, much more consistent than the experience that I have had with the handheld-only monitors from Omron. The scale will calculate your percent body fat & your percent skeletal muscle. It will also give you a reading of your visceral body fat, which is a better indicator of your health risk associated with body fat (visceral body fat is the fat which is inside your body surrounding your organs, which subcutaneous fat is the fat that we all see just under our skin). Using these calculations and the user-defined height, weight, and age data that you enter, it will give you your resting metabolic energy needs for the day to give you an idea of how much you should be eating to lose weight in a healthy manner.

2. I originally ordered a Tanita scale and it stopped working within two weeks. (Amazon, of course, took it back with no problems.) I was so glad when the Omron scale arrived. It costs less than the Tanita but the quality is much higher. The numbers on it are very large and easy to read. Also, it is much easier to place your feet properly than on the Tanita. I can't wait to try all the features. By the way, I weighed myself over and over and my weight only varied .2 lbs. as promised. Great deal for the money!!!

Omron HBF-306C Fat Loss Monitor

The Omron HBF-306C Body Fat Analyzer measures your body fat with a gentle, micro electrical current -- don't worry, you won't feel it. The key to long-term exercise success is accurate body fat composition measurement. This handheld body fat analyzer is an affordable and easy way to measure your body fat in the privacy of your own home. After inputting the data, a measurement can be started by simply holding the grip electrodes and pressing the start button. And since the analyzer is built with a nine person profile memory, each member of your family or team can track the success of their individual exercise routines.
The HBF-306C features two modes -- athlete and normal -- for accurate results. The device is a breeze to use, and it returns measurement results in seven seconds for both Bi method (Bioelectrical Impedance Method) and BMI (Body Mass Index). The unit displays the measured value of your body fat percentage through the BMI method, and indicates the body mass in for ranges from low, normal, high, and very high according to the BMI value.

Omron HBF-306C Fat Loss Monitor

Product Features

* Analyzer measures your body fat with a gentle, micro electrical current
* Two modes -- athletic and normal -- provide accurate results based on your exercise regiment
* Delivers measurement results for Bi method (Bioelectrical Impedance Method) and BMI (Body Mass Index)
* Delivers results in approximately seven seconds
* Features a nine person memory profile for the whole family

Customer feedback:

1. This is a great hand held body fat analyzer. Very accurate, consistent readings and very user friendly. It takes about one minute to set up the personal information that it needs and takes a few seconds to get the body fat readings, very fast.

2. If you're trying to maintain a healthy weight - or reach one - then a fat monitor can be key. Being 150 pounds and 50% fat is much different than being 150 pounds at 20% fat! If you haven't used an electronic fat monitor before, here is how they work. You enter your height and weight. This gives the monitor a rough idea of how long an electrical current should take to go in one end of you and out the other. Then you hold two plates in your hands, and it sends a quick electrical message in one hand and out the other. It doesn't hurt at all - you can't feel it at all. But by tracking the speed of the signal, the monitor knows how dense your body is. That tells it what percentage of you is fat, and what percentage is other stuff (muscle, water, etc.)
How is this helpful? Well, your aim as you lose weight is to be less and less fat. Fat is large, unhealthy and bulky. Muscle is slim and actively burns calories. Don't think of gaining muscle as bulking up like Conan. Think of it as gaining lean active muscle like a ballerina or a dancer. It means you can climb stairs more easily, lift items more easily, and your overall shape will be much slimmer.

Philips VOIP 321 Skype Dual Phone Single Handset

With the VOIP 321 you can make free Skype calls as well as normal landline calls. You can make and take calls on both networks from one single handset, and you can see who is on-line without going to the PC, just by looking at the display.

Features

* Free calls worldwide via Skype to any other Skype users: With Skype you can enjoy making free calls all over the world to any other Skype users. Skype, SkypeOut are trademarks of Skype Limited. Windows XP/2000 through Broadband. PC should be switched on and Skype connected.
* Direct Skype key to access your contacts list: With a single press on the Skype key, you can directly access your Skype contacts list. The list of the users currently logged on to Skype is displayed and you can see their online status. This Skype key also enables you to take the line (once the contact selected) and to make a Skype call (Skype & SkypeOut).
* Skype conference calls with several friends
* Make or take calls via Skype
* Make or take calls via landline
* Low rate call cost on standard phone numbers via SkypeOut
* Skype contacts list accessible anywhere at home
* As easy to use as a standard cordless phone

Philips VOIP 321 Skype Dual Phone Single Handset

Customer feedback:

1. Great sound quality and even better range this phone works much better than I imagined. The phone has a feel of quality. The only thing wrong with this phone is that the computer needs to be on for it to run Skype and there are phones out there than run independent of the computer but their not for me because they make Skype the default connection over the landline phone.

2. I've had this phone for about 2 months and use it daily as my substitute for a phone. I only have a pay-as-you-go phone for a 'real phone' so I spend about 15-120 minutes daily on this VOIP phone using Skype. It has been spectacular. After the brief installation, it was set to go. I simply activate the software each time I boot up my computer (double-click on the icon I placed on the desktop), let the software and Skype start up for about 15-30 seconds, and then I'm off to call whomever I want with SkypeOut. [For reference, I'm running on Windows XP SP2.]
Sound quality has been excellent on both my ends, which has been my main issue with hardware with Skype. I have had 3 different microphones and one USB Skype phone for over a year prior to getting this phone and they offered a range of sound quality with the most notable differences on the other end (could they understand me or not? I could always understand them). With this phone, there haven't been sound issues. It isn't the best but it is at the higher end of the spectrum of what I've used.

Philips VOIP841 PC-Free DECT 6.0 Wireless IP Phone

The Philips VOIP841 is the first completely independent DECT cordless phone that lets you make Skype calls without a PC. And with the added flexibility of letting you connect your land line, this phone can take care of all your calling needs. The Philips VOIP841 is a self-contained unit that requires no installation of software or connection to a computer; simply plug the base into any power outlet in your house, connect it to your broadband connection, and you can start making free Skype telephone calls right away. (To make Skype calls, you must open a Skype account. A Skype account is not included with this phone.)
And by simply plugging your home telephone line into the VOIP841, this phone can double as your everyday landline, giving you the ultimate in convenience.

Philips VOIP841 PC-Free DECT 6.0 Wireless IP Phone

Technical Details

* Stand-alone cordless phone lets you make Skype phone calls without a computer
* Can also be used as a traditional phone with a landline for extra convenience
* Full-color display and 4-way directional pad makes navigation simple
* Handset can store up to 500 Skype phonebook entries
* Phone has up to 12 hours of talk time and 120 hours of standby on single charge

Customer feedback:

1. If you hate paying the phone company a ton of money for calls you probably aren't going to make, Skype is a great service. You can make unlimited phone calls within the U.S. and Canada for just under $30. Out of country calls are extremely cheap. For example, I can call the U.K. for a bit over 2 cents per minute. So having a telephone you can count on to make reasonably good calls is critical. The Philips VOIP841 is not a perfect solution. The sound quality is somewhere between a cell phone and a land line. It's a bit better than the former and not nearly as good as the latter.
But for making and receiving calls from family and friends, it's great. And it will pay for itself quickly and save you a ton of money on your phone bill. I even use mine for business calls overseas and many times within the U.S. With Skype, you can make conference calls. So business users will find this of interest. Although the phone allows you to make Skype or land line calls, the land line is no better or worse than the Skype line. In fact, I believe the Skype calls may be somewhat better on this phone.

2. When I first got this phone, I had both a land line and Skype. I have since dropped the land line because I'm more than happy with the Skype service, especially due to how much $$ it's saving me (a ton, by the way). As Skype will tell you, they recommend you keep a land line, because Skype does not work with 911. I have a cell phone which works with 911, so I'm less worried about that and I live in a condo with lots of people around me. If 911 service is of a concern, then you might want to keep the land line. When you place a call the phone will ask you if you want it to go through the land line or Skype. FYI, someone wrote that they were still asked that even though they didn't have a land line, but I was able to change the settings and now the phone always uses Skype.

GE - SKYPE - Dect 6.0 Cordless phone

The GE28310EE1 phone comes with Skype P2P (peer-to-peer) software on a computer processor chip built into the base of the phone, enabling the system to function without connecting to a PC.The GE28310EE1 delivers full Skype support, sending and receiving Skype/VoIP calls as well as standard PSTN calls, while permitting conferencing of up to four VoIP users. The phone features DECT 6.0 (Digital Enhanced Cordless Technology), which delivers calls of exceptional voice quality without the static, pops, hiss and buzz which severely hinder the performance of most wireless home and small office telephones.The GE28310EE1 telephone has many enhanced features, which serve both traditional phone line and Skype calling. These include polyphonic + midi melody ringtones for custom ID of incoming callers as well as a 200-entry phone address book that can sync up with the consumer's computer.

GE - SKYPE - Dect 6.0 Cordless phone

Technical Details

* Call Waiting/CallerID
* No PC rquired - Handset speakerphone
* Expandable up to 4 handsets
* Color LCD - Melody ringtones
* WiFi Friendly - Make standard & internet calls

Customer feedback:

1. I have owned this phone for about 3 weeks now, and my review is based on my experience with it in that time. First off, the setup was a snap. It took less than five minutes to get the phone up and running (and perhaps another 20 to complete the optional firmware update). Setup consists of connecting the base station to your internet router and to an electrical outlet, then configuring the hand unit for your Skype account. Additional tinkering was necessary to customize the features to my liking, but I found the interface fairly user friendly and this process was also easy.
While user friendly, the interface is definitely the weakest aspect of the phone. It is slow and a bit clunky. There are noticeable pauses while switching between screens and especially when scrolling through contacts. The refresh rate on the color LCD screen is slow enough that when it scrolls a long contact name across the screen, the letters become significantly blurred and almost impossible to read. Additionally, it requires several clicks to view missed calls and access voicemails (e.g. Menu -> History -> Voicemail -> Options -> Play).

2. We got this phone to get rid of our landline. Installataion was very easy. Speaker function works well! We love it! We don't have to use our computer to talk people.

Linksys CIT400 Dual-Mode Internet Telephony Kit with Integrated Skype

The Linksys CIT400 Dual-Mode Cordless Phone with Skype is part of the iPhone family of products that use the Internet to enhance the way you communicate. The CIT400 is a full-featured cordless phone that provides an easy way to take advantage of Skype Internet calling as well as place calls over your normal phone line (PSTN) from a single device. No PC required! Just sign into your Skype account from the handset, and your contacts and their availability are displayed on your color screen. Advanced DECT cordless technology won’t interfere with 802.11 wireless networks. Dual-Mode capability lets you choose whether to make calls over a standard telephone line or with Skype. Just select who you want to talk to from your contact list on your handset and get ready to talk.
The Linksys CIT400 also allows you to choose to make calls to other Skype users or over your existing standard telephone line. You'll get the convenience of a cordless phone and all its features, plus the high-quality voice reception integrated right into your Skype handset--no computer is required.

Linksys CIT400 Dual-Mode Internet Telephony Kit with Integrated Skype

# Model: CIT400
# Handset frequency bands: 1920-1930 MHz
# Standards: DECT (Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunication Standard)
# Speech coding: 32Kbps ADPCM
# Distance range: 300 meters outdoor, 50 meters indoor
# Number of channels: 5 channels
# Standby/talktime: 120 hours/6 hours
# Display: 4K color LCD with 128 x 128 pixels
# Power: 2 x AA 750mAh NiMH rechargeable batteries
# Base station ports: Ethernet 10/100 (RJ45), Line (RJ11)

Customer feedback:

1. I always wanted to have the stand alone Skype phone, and the reason I waited and did not jump on the "mobile-like ones" was the battery factor and the issues aabout logging on other networks when you were away from home...
Now this one is just THE ONE !! plain and simple..
Installation could not be more simple. Take out of the box, plug at your cable modem (or a router like I do) and plug the power. Turn the phone on, input your skype account and password (or create a new one) and that is IT !
Ready to go...
It is quite light, has a plastic feel, but nothing that would take any credit out of it ! It is in fact quite "modern looking" phone. Better in my opinion to be a bulkier cordless phone like the ones everyone is used to nowadays. Sound got better (as if it have anything to improve from the CIT 200) in reality.. It is just like a regular phone !! All the time...

2. We've been using it for about a week and so far it's really good. The best part is that with skype built in, it just plugs into my wireless router and I don't have to have the computer on all the time. We keep the handset on it's charger most of the time so I can't comment on battery life. The sound is great; so far no complaints from us or from anyone we're talking to (I've had a few people say it sounds better than when I call on my cell phone!). The user interface is simple and the phone looks nice too. You can add people to your contact list on the phone and it will update your skype contact list online as well, and vice-versa, if you update your contact list on your computer the handset will update too (I think it updates at night, but was able to have it update when I wanted by logging the handset off and back on. I have a skype-in phone number which came with voicemail and that works seamlessly with the phone. You can easily change your coicemail greeting on the phone. When someone calls and leaves a message a red light blinks on the top of the phone notifying you and checking messages is a cinch too.

Sunday, August 24, 2008

Monster Cable HDMI 400 High Resolution A/V Cable - 4 Meters

Monster HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) 400 is a remarkable new high-bandwidth digital connection that offers superior digital video and multi-channel audio in a single cable, reducing the maze of home theater connections. It’s simple, user-friendly connection is backwards-compatible with DVI, and it delivers a high-definition picture that’s five times the resolution of conventional TV for the highest quality, crispest image quality available. Now you can connect HDMI-equipped devices such as DVD players, set-top boxes, AV receivers and HDTVs with a cable that helps optimize this next-generation technology: Monster HDMI 400.

Monster Cable HDMI 400 High Resolution A/V Cable - 4 Meters

Technical Details

* Supports multiple audio formats, from stereo to multi-channel sound.
* Gas-injected dielectric for optimum signal strength and ultra-low loss.
* High-density triple-shielding for maximum rejection of RFI and EMI.
* For high-definition video (720p and 1080i) or standard video formats.
* Length - 4 meters

Customer feedback:

1. I needed something fast. This critter was on the shelf. The hardest part of the operation was getting this animal out of the packaging. That is no easy task.

2. and that is the case with Monster Cables. It did make a noticeable difference when compared with the stock cable that it replaced.

Sony Dlchd20P Hdmi Cable

Experience video gaming like never before with the DLC-HD20P HDMI high-speed cable and the PLAYSTATION-3. The DLC-HD20P cable enables Deep Color PLAYSTATION 3 graphics, high frame rate and high-speed performance while meeting HDMI Version 1.3, category 2 specifications. Also compatible with all HDMI-input equipped televisions.

Technical Details

* 1.3A Cable
* 1080P
* Full Hd Resolution
* 6 Ft

Sony Dlchd20P Hdmi Cable

Customer feedback:

1. This cable appears to be well made and works well. I use it to connect my PS3 to a Samsung SyncMaster 245T monitor to watch blu-ray movies in 1080p hi-def. Glorious! If it matters to you, be advised that the cable I received (as well as the ones I've seen in local stores) was black, not white as shown on Amazon.

2. I made the common mistake of ordering a generic HDMI cable on amazon.com made by abacus just to save a few bucks. After I received the cable I could only get 1080i resolution from my PS3 and TV. At the advice from my local Gamestop who advised to get the Sony brand HDMI cable, I ordered one. When it came, I unhooked the generic cord and hooked up the Sony one and BAM!!! 1080p resolution. Don't be fooled by cheap generic cables. Get the name brand Sony. The money spent on this cable is well worth it and alot cheaper than the Monster brand.

Cables Unlimited Premium 2 Meter Version 1.3 HDMI Home Theater Cable (PCM229502M)

Cables Unlimited HDMI Home Theater cables deliver HD picture and multi-channel audio to your home theater through a single user friendly cable. These premium cables meet the latest HDMI 1.3 standard, support a 10.2Gbps bandwidth and the next generation xvYCC color technology for up to 1.8 times as many colors as the existing HD signal. Connect today's HD equipment with the cables of tomorrow.
Cables Unlimited brings A/V enthusiasts the next generation of digital video and audio cables. These high quality HDMI cables deliver the optimum video and multiple channel audio signals required for connecting today's high-end DVD players, cable boxes, AV receivers and HDTVs. These premium cables are Fully HDCP compliant to Provide highest level of signal quality.

Cables Unlimited Premium 2 Meter Version 1.3 HDMI Home Theater Cable (PCM229502M)

Technical Details

* HDMI 1.3
* Supports up to 1080p Resolutions and 8 Channel Surround Sound
* Perfect for both high-definition video and standard video formats.
* Supports Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio standards
* Lifetime Warranty

Customer feedback:

1. I ordered this not expecting much more than an inexpensive 1.3-compliant HDMI cable. What showed up and I installed is what appears to be the exact same cable as a $60 Monster premium cable I had already connecting another piece of equipment. I have since ordered two more. The cable, connectors - everything about this cable are EXACTLY the same as the higher end Monster cable except no Monster logo and no Monster price (pun intended).
As for performance, there is nothing wrong with this cable - works great. I have it connected from a 1.3a compliant Toshiba A35 HD DVD to a 1.3a compliant Onkyo SR705 Receiver then up to a 1080p LCD. Picture, sounds, everything is excellent.

2. Works just as well as all the other overpriced brand name cables (you know who you are!) Have this hooked up to my PS3/ Blu-ray and the picture on my 62" TV in 1080i is awesome (sorry, don't have 1080p to comment on). Comparing pictures with an older $3 HDMI cable attached to an upconverting DVD player showed only subtle difference. Sound is definately improved as the v1.3 HDMI supports better sound standards. Don't be suckered into paying extra for an over-hyped brand name!

Cables To Go - 40315 - 2M (6.5ft) Velocity HDMI Digital Video Cable (Blue)

Cables to Go's HDMI digital HDTV Velocity Series interconnects will provide a pure digital high-definition video, audio, and system control connection! Using HDMI-enabled components allows you to enjoy the purity of the original signal with no picture or sound degradation! Fully tested and absolutely guaranteed. Don't compromise your high-definition television signal; use the right interconnects! Impact Acoustics Velocity HDMI cables are the right choice when value and performance are the order of the day!

Technical Details

* Connectors: HDMI male to HDMI male
* Fully shielded to provide complete immunity to environmental EMI and RFI
* 24-karat gold-plated connectors ensure superior signal transfer
* Digital video, audio, and intercomponent control signals in one connection
* Ships in retail packaging

Cables To Go - 40315 - 2M (6.5ft) Velocity HDMI Digital Video Cable (Blue)

Customer feedback:

1. Despite popular myth, all HDMI cables are not the same. Construction quality, cable design, cable thickness (gauge) and connector quality can all play a role in the success you'll have with an HDMI cable. Yes, HDMI is a digital signal but this does NOT mean that you either "have a signal or you don't." Cheaply constructed HDMI cables can have not only mechanical failures (worn out solder joints over time, ill-fitting connectors), but electrical failures as well, and these can be represented either by visible distortion ("sparklies," lines, dropouts or pixilation), or by incompatibilities with certain high bandwidth HDMI sources and displays.
This is not to say that you need to pay $50, $100 or more on well-known brand HDMI cables in order to get good results, but when you buy "no name" cables (particularly from unknown marketplace sellers), you're taking a risk - you might get something decent, or you might not. And is it really worth it, to save a couple of dollars on the cable, when it may cost you hours of debugging to determine exactly what's wrong with your picture or sound in your high end home theater system?

2. first off, i was wary of purchasing this cable because of the very name: "cables to go." then, i was wary because of the cheap price. but after reading other reviews saying that insane cable shielding doesn't really matter since it's all digital, and seeing the outrageous prices of Monster Cables, I was more than willing to try this cable.
Turns out, after using it for two weeks with my Sony HDMI DVD player and Sharp Aquos HDTV LCD, it works perfectly! So save yourself the extra money and buy a "no-name" HDMI cable.

Sony DAV-HDX500/i BRAVIA Home Theater System

The concept of home-theater is very enticing. Sony has aligned this sound system to be compatible with their popular Bravia widescreen TV line. Yet, it will still deliver fine performance with most other HDTV sets on the market. As a leader in products with HDMI connectivity, Sony has created BRAVIA Theater Sync to go beyond simple audio and video transmission. When combined with a select number of BRAVIA Televisions and other Sony audio and video products, in addition to audio and video transmission, control functions will be transmitted via the HDMI cable. With ?One Touch Play,? operations that took several steps have been reduced to one. Press the PLAY button on the remote, watch the audio and/or the video component(s) turn on with the BRAVIA and switch to correct input. This model also includes an iPod dock for playthrough. HDMI - Reads the data on a standard DVD at 480P and maximizes the video resolution to best fit your HDMI compatible TV at up to 720p or 1080i XM Connect-and-Play Ready A World of digital radio is at your fingertips. Connect the optional Connect-and-Play antenna, sign up for XM service (subscription rate required) and enjoy the variety of digital radio with superior sound quality Digital Media Port (DMP) offers compatibility with various accessories which will include a PC Client device, Bluetooth receiver and Audio Docking Stations compatible with Network Walkman(R) and iPod products. Sony's DIGITAL MEDIA PORT grants access, provides control and integrates your portable music into a traditional home theater system

Sony DAV-HDX500/i BRAVIA Home Theater System

Technical Details

* DIGITAL MEDIA PORT Accessory iPod Dock supplied
* XM Connect-and-Play Ready
* BRAVIA Matching and Adjustable Floor Standing Speakers
* BRAVIA Theatre Sync technology
* HDMI Output with 720P/1080i upscaling

Customer feedback:

1. Very pleased so far. Sounds great, plenty of power to rock your media room, and was easy to set up. There's an on-screen setup feature that lets you easily customize the setup for your particular room configuration. An included microphone lets you do a push-button fine-tuning of the sound relative to speaker placement. It's cool to see the system report exactly how far all the speakers are away from the microphone.
I also purchased the wireless surround kit from Sony. Setup for this was also pretty simple, and was supported by the HDX500 system. Remote is typical Sony - lots of buttons. But fairly intuitive thus far.

2. The new DAV-HDX500/I comes with the iPod Digital Media Port cradle (TDM-IP1) that allows you to connect an iPod device. With the old model DAV-HD500, the iPod Digital Media Port cradle was an option you had to buy separately. Other than that, both models are identical in features.

Monster HDMI 1000HD Ultra-High Speed HDMI Cable (2 meters)

HDMI places incredible performance demands on your digital A/V connections. It requires a truly high-bandwidth cable that can deliver enormous amounts of digital data without bit-error and signal degradation. Monster has created the Advanced HDMI 1000HD Ultra-High Speed Cable for those who demand the best in high definition home theater--both now and in the future. This cable is ideal for larger HDTVs, advanced projectors, and high definition AV sources. Monster designs the most advanced HDMI cables and certifies their performance for future generations of products. If the performance capabilities of this cable are ever exceeded by future generations of HDMI, Monster will replace this cable at no charge--see product packaging for further details.

Monster HDMI 1000HD Ultra-High Speed HDMI Cable (2 meters)

Technical Details

* Monster's highest speed HDMI cable (10.2 Gbps) for the sharpest picture, deepest color, and smoothest video
* Large gauge silver-coated conductors for superior signal transfer and ultimate high-definition video
* Ultra high-density quad-layer shielding for ultimate rejection of RF and EM interference
* Advanced nitrogen gas-injected dielectric ensures maximum signal strength, even over longer runs
* 24k gold contacts for maximum signal transfer and corrosion resistance

Customer feedback:

1. So, I've trolled through many reviews as of late and seen so many related to cabling. Can you see the difference? That is the biggest question. For most of us...no. If you read all of the guides they will tell you to use the best cable that you can afford due to bandwidth limitations of cheap cables. If you have a 1080p upconverting DVD player a $10 cable will work fine. If you have a Dolby TrueHD/DTS-HD receiver with HDMI switching and a Blu-ray player you want the nicer cables as the bandwidth requirements for the audio and video will either cause the picture to degrade or your TV will not pick up the video source. This is coming from personal experience folks so take that for what it's worth.

2. I just spent $2500 on a top of the line Samsung 52 inch 1080p LCD, and I also got this cord of $99. Myabe Monster is better. Maybe it isn't. But there is no shot I'm taking a chance with a $5 or $10 dollar cord. Especially when people out there say they notice a difference. Even if I got ripped off, which may be the case, the extra 90 bucks is worth my piece of mind.

Polk Audio RM6750 5.1 Channel Home Theater Speaker System (Set of Six, Black)

Polk Audio RM6750 Black Six-piece 5.1 Channel Home Theater Speaker System - Introducing a complete home-theater audio solution for people who crave true cinema excitement without breaking the bank.
The RM6750. The integrated Power Port Bass Vent designed right onto the back of the compact Satellite & Center Channel speakers - the same technology used in full-sized Polk Audio speakers-improves lower midrange response and all-important sub/sat blending, taking the RM6750 beyond the performance realm of any other sub/sat system in this price range. This integrated design reveals midrange with no hole
in the frequencies between the sats and the sub, for male vocals that are rich and full-not thin and weak like other sub/sat systems. The RM6750 comes with its own subwoofer module, an 8 inch long throw driver and high current power amplifier for real ground-shaking bass thrills. The Subwoofer features an 8-inch Long-Throw Dynamic Balance Poly Composite Driver with built-in Subwoofer amp (50 Watts Continuous Power). Dimensions - Fronts/Surrounds - 6-1/2 H x 4-1/16 W x 5 D, 2 lbs / Center - 4-5/16 H x 11-3/16 W x 5-13/16 D, 5.25 lbs / Subwoofer - 15-7/8 H x 11 W x 13-1/2 D, 28 lbs

Polk Audio RM6750 5.1 Channel Home Theater Speaker System (Set of Six, Black)

Technical Details

* Six piece surround sound package that includes 2 front and 2 surround speakers, 1 center-channel speaker, and 1 subwoofer
* Satellite and center-channel speakers utilize 3.25-inch polymer-composite cone drivers for distortion-free midrange
* Features 0.5-inch silk and polymer-composite dome tweeter in each satellite speakers and 0.75-inch silk and polymer-composite dome tweeter in center-channel speaker
* Subwoofer utilizes an eight-inch long-throw dynamic-balance poly-composite driver for longer driver excursion and better linearity
* Satellite and center-channel speakers can accommodate 6.1 or 7.1 channel systems

Customer feedback:

1. The Polk Audio RM6750 5.1 channel home theater speaker system is phenomenal and an outstanding value. I had originally been looking for a home theater in a box system to mate to a newly acquired 37" LG LCD HDTV. The search was partly precipitated by the demise of the older generation DVD player we owned coupled to a failing 10 year old Onkyo surround-sound system. As I poked around on-line reviews and shopped Circuit City and Best Buy it became clear I could get more value and flexibility buying a receiver, an upscalable DVD player (improved picture with regular DVDs on HDTV) and a new speaker system than with home theater in a box.

2. There are tons of speakers out there, and many of them are quite good. What sold me on Polk was the wealth of information the company publishes for its customers (and prospects) on its website. While some companies will try to sell you on prestige or fancy finishing, the Polk website lays it out clearly and explains the best way to evaluate a system in terms of performance. As a self-proclaimed audiophile, and having worked in professional theatrical sound, I appreciate a company that is dedicated to quality and technical mastery, and less concerned with marketing.
They make fantastic speakers, and their detailed information on the perils of the "sub jack" on most tuners, along with their innovative solution, has me listening to pristine sound with no hassle. This sounds way better than other systems I've heard (at friends houses and whatnot) that cost many times more than this. These speakers are pretty incredible for the price.

Sony SA-W2500 Performance Line 100 Watt Subwoofer

Feel the power of 100 amplified watts of pure bass. The Sony SA-W2500 Performance Line Subwoofer makes music come alive and elevates the movie-watching experience to theater-like levels. For cinematic effects, crank up the bass and let the 10" mica-reinforced cellular woofer and advanced bass reflex design do the rest.

Technical Details

* 100 Watt Amplified Subwoofer
* 10 Mica Reinforced Cellular Woofer
* Motion Feed Back Technology
* Speaker and Line Level Inputs
* Frequency Response 28-200Hz

Sony SA-W2500 Performance Line 100 Watt Subwoofer

Customer feedback:

1. This subwoofer really performs. Have to keep the level turned down or else it is way too much bass. Like being inside a movie theatre.

2. Incredibly powerful subwoofer, I have to leave the volume turned down low to avoid disturbing the neighbors. I can't hear the distortion. While I was waiting for the rest of my system, I ran audio out from my tv to sub, almost made it unnecessary to buy the rest (for tv programs at least). Auto on/off feature can get annoying because it shuts off in quiet periods, and then turns on with a click. (minor annoyance)

Sony TDM-IP1 Digital Media Port iPod Dock

Display your iPod on the smooth and modern Sony TDM-IP1 Digital Media Port iPod Dock and unleash the power of your music. Take full advantage of your DMP compatible BRAVIA home theater system or audio receiver's sound when you connect an iPod to the DMP. It lets you search through your music or view video from your iPod right on your television. For added convenience, the dock also charges your iPod's battery.

Technical Details

* Connects with compatible Sony home theater systems and receivers with digital media port input
* Compatible with many iPod models (5G/4G/nano/mini)
* On-screen display feature to search songs and view iPod video on monitor
* Charges iPod when placed on dock

Sony TDM-IP1 Digital Media Port iPod Dock

Customer feedback:

A) I own a Sony surround system DVD player with a digital media port on the back of the player. Instead of buying external speakers for the iPod, I purchased this media port iPod cradle and thus connected my iPod to my surround system. I gained several advantages by doing this:
1. I saved money by not having to pay for expensive external speakers for my iPod
2. I saved on space, for my iPod was connected on existing speakers.
3. The sound is great, unmatched by any external speakers made for the iPod.
4. I can control my iPod with my Sony remote control. This saved me from having another remote control (as with buying an external speaker system for the iPod for example). With the remote control, you can control all the functions of the iPod
5. I connected my iPod to my TV, allowing me to watch the movies stored in my iPod on my TV screen. That feature alone is worth buying this iPod cradle.
6. The iPod cradle is cosmetically appealing.

B) The unit came equipped with an attached digital media port cable, which connected directly to the Sony receiver's DMPort. A separate video cable was supplied, which I connected directly to the TV's video-in RCA connector. The unit can also be used with a separately purchased video cable connected between the receiver and TV. Setup was very simple and after I configured my Sony receiver to "DMPort1" and the TV to "AV1", a facsimile of the iPod's screen appeared on the TV and I was able to control the iPod by way of the Sony remote.
Visually, the menu is a little on the chunky side, but highly legible. Screen color may be set to Red, Green, Blue, and a couple variants of Gray. There are also modest on-screen controls for a screensaver, song shuffle, and song repeat. The only moving part on the TDM-iP1 is a button, which allows users to switch between the iPod's own controls and control by way of a remote control.

Canon BU-20 Bluetooth Adapter

The Canon BU-20 Bluetooth Adapter uses Bluetooth wireless technology to print your photos. With this device you can quickly and easily send photos from your PDA, laptop, or PC to a Canon compact photo printer. With a maximum transmission speed of approximately 720 kbps, the handy BU-20 works quickly and efficiently so you can see your favorite prints almost as quickly as you can take them.

Technical Details

* Adapter works with Bluetooth technology to wirelessly print photos
* Send photos from PDA, laptop, or PC to Canon photo printer
* Maximum transmission speed of approximately 720 kbps
* Great for printing photos while on the go
* Quick, efficient, and reliable

Canon BU-20 Bluetooth Adapter

Customer feedback:

1. I purchased the BU-20 last week and am using it in my home network with a Mac G4 Laptop running OS 10.4.11. I also connect with my desktop G5 running OS 10.4.11. I plugged into my Canon Pixma 610 printer and within 2-3 minutes was up and running. No software needed. Just plug it in and go. You do not need to be a computer guru to use this device. Just make sure your computer is bluetooth compatible and your printer has a USB port to insert it in. On a Mac you just go to the Bluetooth Icon on top of the screen and scroll down to "Set Up A Bluetooth Device" and with just a few keystrokes you are in sync and start printing from most anywhere in your home. I do not know the max distance but I am printing in from about 30 feet through walls on the same floor. I have not measured the speed difference between hard wired and Blue Tooth but in my case it is very close. I also can print photos from my Motorola RAZR 2 cell phone wirelessly. I am very pleased as it does all I want it to and it is very very small. The newer Canon Printers like the 610 are equipped to handle the Blue Tooth device. Older models are not. Five stars from me.

2. This product works like a charm!! I can print from almost anywhere in my home (30')

OPPO HM-31 Certified HDMI 1.3 and 1080p Switch

The OPPO HM-31 is a 3 to 1 HDMI switch built with the latest HDMI 1.3 standard. It maintains the highest video & audio quality with resolution support up to 1080p and 1920x1200 with deep color. The OPPO HM-31 supports auto-synchronization, remote control, RS-232 and IR control.

Technical Details

* Expands a single HDMI or DVI input into three. Connects up to three HDMI devices to your HDTV.
* Maintains highest video and audio quality. Supports all HDTV resolutions up to 1080p and 1920x1200 with Deep Color.
* HDMI 1.3 certified with full HDCP 1.1 and DVI 1.0 compliance. Works with HDTV, projectors, receivers, DVD players, cable boxes, game consoles and computers.
* Remote control included. External IR sensor and RS-232 remote control available for custom home theater installation.
* Designed and manufactured by renowned HDMI DVD player expert OPPO Digital, Inc.

OPPO HM-31 Certified HDMI 1.3 and 1080p Switch

Customer feedback:

1. I got the OPPO HM-31 switcher after I bought a PlayStation 3 to watch Blu-ray movies and my receiver ran out of HDMI input ports. Actually the OPPO HM-31 is not my first HDMI switch. I tried other switches (one Terk from Amazon and another from monoprice) but none worked for my setup. My home theater has 3 HDMI sources:
A. A comcast/motorola cable box plus DVR. This device is what causes other HDMI switches to fail. No matter it is on or off, its HDMI output is always alive and sends a video signal (no audio when off). When preset recording starts, the HDMI output actually "flickers" - alternating between good/bad signal before going stable.
B. A PlayStation 3 (60GB). I bought it not for playing games, but for watching Blu-ray movies.
C. An OPPO DV-980H 1080p Up-Converting Universal DVD Player with HDMI and 7.1CH Audio. This is a great DVD up-converter. Even though I bought the PS3, I still prefer using the OPPO to watch normal DVD.
All three are connected to the OPPO HM-31. The output of the HM-31 goes into my Onkyo TX-SR604 7.1 Channel A/V Receiver. From the receiver, its HDMI output is connected to a Pioneer KURO PDP-5010FD 50" 1080p Plasma HDTV. The receiver only has two HDMI input ports and that's the reason I need an HDMI switch to get more ports. The TV has more HDMI input ports than I care but it is not a receiver and cannot handle audio for me.
With this setup, everything works well together. The addition of OPPO HM-31 HDMI switch does not introduce any loss of picture or sound quality, nor does it cause any HDMI handshake issues. No matter I watch a Blu-ray movie with the PS3 or play a DVD with the OPPO DV-980H (both set to 1080p), or watch HD channels from comcast, the result is the same as if I directly connect the source to my receiver.

2. Packaging is great, set up is almost idiot proof; hdmi out goes to the tv, dvd and cable box goes to the hdmi inputs. Plug it in and you're up and running. Follow the advice of the first reviewer, and put your cable box into input #3, and then you don't have to use the remote that came with it to switch between inputs. You can leave your cable box on...and then turn on your DVD player with your DVD remote and the TV will recognize the dvd player. Then - this is the cool part - when you're done with your DVD, you can simply turn off your DVD player, and it goes back to the cable box (input #3) without needing to manually switch the input via the oppo remote. Very cool.
I've owned an oppo dvd player for a month now, and love it. Wish more retailers carried these products as they're well made, attractive, easy to set up, and inexpensive!

Sony BDP-S350 1080p Blu-Ray Disc Player

Revel in astounding HD clarity with the BDP-S350 Blu-ray Disc player. The most noticeable additions to this year's model are the Ethernet port that lets you download firmware updates directly to the player, and -- with one of those firmware updates -- access web contetent encoded to Blu-ray discs via BD-Live, compatibility with the Bonus View feature of select Blu-ray movies, and a USB port that allows you to add more storage to access the growing number of special features that will be available given the immense storage capacity of Blu-ray discs themeselves. This player also outputs a Full 1080/24p True Cinema picture, and upscales your existing DVD collection to 1080p when using an HDMI connection. Dolby TrueHD capability delivers lossless sound that is true to the original studio master. Bringing it all together is the new icon based Xcross Media Bar, which provides simple navigation of the player's menu system.

Key Features

* True 1080p Output
* Dolby TrueHD compatible
* Ethernet connection for BD-Live Compatibility and firmware updates
* USB Port Allows More Storage for Access to More Special Features, Like Bonus View
* Higher Bit Rates mean less video compression
* Emmy-Award Winning Xross Media Bar Interface
* Bravia Sync for Easy Connectivity

Sony BDP-S350 1080p Blu-Ray Disc Player

Specifications
Audio Features

* Dolby : Dolby Digital (Decoding): Yes (HDMI bitstream out)
* Dolby Digital plus Decoding : Yes
* Dolby TrueHD Decoding : Yes (HDMI™ bitstream out)
* LPCM : Yes (multi-channel decoding): Yes (HDMI™ bitstream out)
* MP3 Playback : No
* dts Decoding : Yes (HDMI™ bitstream out)
* dts Output : No

Video Features

* BD-R/RE Read Compatibility : Yes (BDMV and BAAB format)
* DVD+R Read Compatibility : Yes
* DVD+RW Read Compatibility : Yes
* DVD-R Read Compatibility : Yes (Video Mode AVR Mode
* DVD-RW Read Compatibility : Yes (Video Mode AVR Mode
* JPEG Playback : Yes


Customer feedback:

1. This one loads pretty fast. From what I read it is much faster then older models. I was upgrading coming from a Sony 5 disc up converting DVD player and that thing was slow so I'm very satisfied. The picture is awesome and the audio is great too. I don't even have it connected to a amp that does Dolby Tru-HD or DTS-MA. That will be my next purchase.
There is only one thing that I'm disappointed with the player has the Bravia Theater Sync feature. Which works great with my Sony amp. But for some reason the DVD remote will only control the volume for the TV not the amp. So I still have to use a second remote for volume on my Sony amp. This makes no sense to me.

2. This is my first BluRay player. So far so good. The setup was very straightforward and I did appreciate the simple set up walk through the minute I turned it on. After setting up - I was a bit surprised (all right - fricking shocked) when sound played through my TV speakers because I specifically set it up to play through the digital audio output. Not a big deal - I can just mute the TV, but I did fear it was going to blow out the speakers.
So after the unit was set up (less than a minute with an HDMI connection and a digital audio out) I popped in my first disc. Granted, I did not test with a BluRay DVD, but the load-time was a pleasant surprise. I found it just as fast as the el-cheapo model DVD player that occupied the space before it. All the nightmares I have heard about ridiculously slow start-up times seem to have been for not. No problem with loading.

Sony Bravia XBR-Series KDL-46XBR4 46-Inch 1080p LCD HDTV

The Sony BRAVIA XBR KDL-46XBR4 46-inch 1080p LCD Flat Panel HDTV continues Sony's tradition of making outstanding televisions. With a 46-inch screen, you'll be able to see every little detail without any need to squint. Sony does not hold back with any technologies, and the XBR series is its flagship line--so with the XBR, you know you'll get the best quality home theater experience available.
The XBR KDL-46XBR4 is a 1080p television with a full 1920 x 1080 resolution, the highest resolution available for the sharpest, clearest picture. The KDL-46XBR uses the most recent HDMI 1.3 interface, which houses both audio and video signals in one connector and has the bandwidth to support the data needed for the high resolution. Sony's Bravia Engine Pro Full Digital Video Processor upconverts all video signals to 1080p so you can watch all your old DVDs on this glorious display.
Sony complements the high resolution with the latest technology in color reproduction. The KDL-46XBR is a 10-bit display with 10-bit processing. Most panels are only 8-bit. The added bit depth here means a larger color palette for more faithful color reproduction and smoother transitions from one color to the next. Additionally, the display also supports the new x.v.Color standard, which dramatically increases the available color space. The end result is a picture that is so detailed, colorful, and vibrant, you'd have a hard time distinguishing it from real life.

Sony Bravia XBR-Series KDL-46XBR4 46-Inch 1080p LCD HDTV

Technical Details

* 10-bit 16:9 Full HD 1080p Panel (1920x1080)
* Motionflow with FHD 120 Hz high frame rate capability
* BRAVIA Engine PRO & Live Color Creation� system
* 1080p Inputs: HDMI� (x3), YPbPr (x2), PC
* Advanced Contrast Enhancer (ACE)

Customer feedback:

1. Now that I've had this LCD for over a month I'm very pleased with it. One additional comment is the built in speakers are quite good. I also recently purchased a 34" Sharp with built in speakers and immediately noticed the difference in the poorer sound quality in this Sharp. The Sony sounds so good I haven't spent the time to hook the sound output jacks up to my surround sound system. Changing channels could be quicker, but my guess is the TV is trying to figure out what kind of signal it has (480i, 720i, 1080i) and make adjustments.

2. Picture is incredible. With Motion flow turned on and sharpness turned up, contract and back-light turned to max it looks like you are looking through a window. If anyone wants my settings let me know. I am just thrilled with quality. I have a PC-VCR attached to the VGA connector. I have a DVD player connected using HDMI and using the scaler from the TV take it to 1080p. With sharpness turned up motion flow turned on, detail and edge enhancer turned on the DVD's look amazing I can't wait for a Blu-Ray player, can you say PS3?

Sony STR-DG810 6.1 Channel Home Theater Receiver

The Sony STR-DG810 Audio Video Receiver delivers 660 Watts of room-filling sound across 6.1 channels. Your Blu-ray Discs and XM radio have never looked or sounded better. Two HDMI inputs make high-definition video crisp and breathtaking, and Dolby decoding gives you unbelievable sound. The Digital Media Port lets you play music from a PC, iPod or Bluetooth device through your receiver. BRAVIA Theater Sync takes you beyond simple audio and video transmission, allowing you to control select BRAVIA televisions and Sony HDMI audio and video components with a single remote. Hook up the optional Connect-and-Play antenna for instant XM satellite radio (subscription required). Digital Cinema Auto Calibration adjusts for speaker placement, distance and delay. With amazing theater-quality audio and optimization for 1080p for top-shelf video, the Sony's STR-DG810 Audio Video Receiver will be sure to move you.

Sony STR-DG810 6.1 Channel Home Theater Receiver

Technical Details

* 6-channel home theater receiver with 110 Watts-per-channel
* Optimized for Blu-ray disc and other HD sources
* BRAVIA Theater Sync
* Digital media port
* XM satellite radio ready

Customer feedback:

1. I got this for it's HDMI switching capability. It does this well and that's a welcome accomplishment for $300 at this point in time. There is now 1 cable! from the HD DVD player to the recvr and 1 cable! from the satellite recvr and 1 cable to the plasma monitor. That's pretty exciting in my book. The prior reviewer seemed to expect it to do analog to digital conversion of video signals. That's far from realistic at this price point, but it seems like the 910 may do that. For me this receiver replaces an older Sony ES (high end) with better amplication. One knows the 810 is a step down just from its reduced weight. But in my simple home theater context I'm very happy with this recvr's capability. Of course, I've only had it a week. It has a nice blend of features, and even at this level its manual is a bit daunting re the features to be learned. For my wife, it's handy that it allows you to rename inputs. So, instead of SAT appearing on the display I changed it to DIRECTV, and I changed VIDEO2 to EMPTY. Radio stations can be preset and named too. Regardless of which input you switch to, it remembers your last sound settings for it -- that's helpful. When you insert headphones for late night tv watching, it senses that, turns off the speakers and optimizes the sound fields for 2 channel listening. Very nice. I hope it gives me many years of service.

2. If you want 3 HDMI inputs and don't want upconversion of non-hdmi inputs (a mixed bag anyway) or on-screen display (something that is useful for the initial setup but that you won't use often), then this is a bargain. I think Sony aimed this receiver at the user who wants the "sweet spot" between features and cost, and this fits the bill. Good picture and sound quality and the display on the receiver front is easy to read, which makes up for the lack of on-screen display. The microphone speaker setup was easy to do, but I found the results to be a bit off, so I made minor adjustments, which was simple to do. A good receiver with advanced features for a good price. You won't find anything else with 3 hdmi inputs at this low price.

Sony HT-SS2000 Component Home Theater System for Sony Blu-Ray Players

Get the most from Blu-ray movies and other high-definition media with the advanced performance of the Sony HT-SS2000 Home Theater System. This system includes a powerful 5.1 channel A/V receiver pushing 1000 Watts of power (RMS). Featuring Bravia Theatre Sync, the HT-SS2000 also offers easy one-touch operation of compatible Sony HDMI components, so you no longer need to juggle multiple remote controls. Bravia Theatre Sync technology goes beyond simple audio and video transmission when combined with a select number of Bravia LCD televisions. Control functions will also be transmitted via the HDMI cable. With One Touch Play, operations that took several steps have been reduced to one. The receiver detects and receives the best possible video and audio signals from all connected devices, making connection and performance as simple as plugging in a single wire. Sony's HDMI Active Intelligence produces both audio and video through one HDMI cable. Connect the included microphone and with a push of a button, the speakers are automatically adjusted to your favorite listening position. Additionally, the simplified front-side audio and video connections make it easy to play music stored on portables through the receiver.

Sony HT-SS2000 Component Home Theater System for Sony Blu-Ray Players

Technical Details

* Built to match seamlessly with Sony Blu-Ray disc players (NOTE: Blu-Ray player NOT included)
* Digital Media Port
* AV Reciever w/HDMI Active Intelligence (3 IN, 1 OUT)
* Portable Audio Enhancer w/ Front Audio Input
* Digital Cinema Auto Calibration (Mic Included)


Customer feedback:

1. Good:
Great sound for the price.
Easy set up.
You can sync it up to work seamlessly with other Sony products & remotes.

Bad (but not that bad, really):
Passive Sub-Woofer (If that sort of thing is important to you)
Speakers wires attach to the unit with special connectors. If they detatch, you could be in for a tricky fix or replacement.
The auto calibration is pretty slick, but it doesn't work all that well. Most people (owners in online forums) end up setting the levels manually.

Overall, I am very satisfied with this purchase. Right for the price, and a good pick for Sony product owners.

2. I just picked one of these up for our small family room off of our kitchen. I needed something small as space is tight. Overall, I am pretty impressed with the system considering the price. The sound isn't outstanding but not bad for a $320 system and the connectivity is pretty nice. Hooked everything up quickly and had no HDMI syncing problems at all. Sound isn't as crisp as a more expensive system and it is underpowered but for the price it gives me what I need. I did pair this with some better speakers from an older Sony HTIB and the sound is better. I had to splice the wires due to the proprietary connection but it was worth it. Sound is a bit better than the tiny included speakers but not much.

Digital Concepts 67" 3-section Deluxe Tripod with Carrying Case (Folds to 25")

This high-quality, 3-section tripod, suitable for both cameras and camcorders, features a channel lock and a two-way pan and and tilt head. It extends to a maximum and height of 65 inches and can fold up as small as 25 inches. A free case is included with the tripod. Comes with a one year warranty.

Technical Details

* Model # TR-64N
* Features a 3 section channel lock
* 2 way fluid pan & tilt head
* Max height: 65 inches
* Folds to 25 inches

Digital Concepts 67

Customer feedback:

1. This is a great tripod for the money. It holds a small camcorder and also has several bells and whistles for the price: built in carry handle, comes with a carry bag, has a hook so you can hang weights to also keep the tripod steady, pretty solid on adjusting legs and also panning and tilting.

2. I received this item quickly, which always puts me in a good mood. The tripod is perfect for what I do with my camera and camcorder- but I am no means a professional. Either way, for $25 this thing does it's job and I'm very pleased with my purchase. It has all kinds of handy little additions that I didn't expect (it's my first tripod)- like the level, different adjustments and a quick-release for the camera. Very cool.

Olympus Stylus 1200 12MP Digital Camera with 3x Optical Zoom (Black)

Shoot in rain or shine, at the beach or on the slopes. Sealed and coated in all the right places, the Stylus 1200 resists water, snow and dust. The 12-megapixel CCD allows you to print dramatic large images, or crop your images to compose them perfectly. Previewing, composing, shooting and sharing are so much easier and more enjoyable with this bright, premium-sized 2.7-inch Hypercrystal LCD. Digital Image Stabilization Mode freezes the action with high ISO sensitivity and faster shutter speed to capture sharp images even if you or your subject is moving. Digital Image Stabilization Edit uses built-in gyro sensors to track camera movement so you can fix blurry images right in the camera.
The Stylus 1200 features a light-weight, metal body with rubber gaskets throughout the interior to ensure that rain, sleet and snow will not get in the way of great photos. The Stylus 1200 features a 2.7-inch HyperCrystal LCD. Images are viewable on the LCD screen from 176-degrees, so photos can be composed from a range of angles and viewed by several people at once. The Stylus 1200 features a bright, 3x optical zoom lens (35mm -- 105mm, F2.8 equivalent in 35mm photography).

Olympus Stylus 1200 12MP Digital Camera with 3x Optical Zoom (Black)

Technical Details

* 12-megapixel CCD image sensor, perfect for poster-size enlargements
* 3x optical zoom; Face Detection technology
* 2.7-inch HyperCrystal LCD; Bright Capture technology for low-light photos
* All-weather body with seals and gaskets to protect from rain, snow, or sand
* Captures images to xD memory card

Customer feedback:

1. I purchased the Olympus Stylus 1200 after playing with it side by side with the Canon SD870IS, and some Casio model. The Casio didn't quite seem up to snuff, so it came down to the Canon or the Olympus. In the interest of full disclosure, I have had two prior digital cameras, the Canon s100 and s500. I loved the s100 and hated the s500. The s500 was incredibly slow to prepare to take shots and the only easy shooting options were flash on (which meant overexposure in almost any indoor setting) or flash off (which led to underexposure). That said, I did take note of all the positive Canon reviews when making my decision. What tipped the scales for me was the user interface. With the Olympus, I was able to figure out how to switch to various shooting modes (portrait, indoors, ambient low light, etc -- there are a ton of them) without glancing at a manual or asking the sales assistant for help. With the Canon, I literally couldn't figure out how to get to the shooting modes so I gave the camera to the salesman and it took him a good 5 minutes of fiddling around to find them.

2. I got my Olympus Stylus 1200 yesterday and so far it is amazing! It has a bunch of features and settings with in camera guide that helps you to decide what setting to use in each situation. The pictures have excellent resolution. I'm looking forward to use it on the holidays.

Olympus FE-340 8MP Digital Camera with 5x Optical Zoom (Blue)

Choosing the right compact digital camera has never been easier, thanks to the new Olympus pocket-size FE-Series cameras that make capturing brilliant images as simple as point and shoot. The FE-340 delivers high-tech features without being bland -- this stylish, sleek, and downright fun-to-use model makes everyone who has it the life of the party.
The FE-340 offers 8-megapixel resolution, Face Detection, Digital Image Stabilization, Perfect Shot Preview and three in-camera Help Guides so you can learn on the go and capture all of life’s special moments in brilliant detail at the touch of a button. The new FE-340 has a 5x optical zoom made from precision-crafted lenses that put you 60 percent closer to the action than 3x. Face Detection tracks faces within the frame and automatically focuses (Face Detection AF) and optimizes exposure (Face Detection AE) for sharp, brilliant portrait pictures. Even if your subject is moving, the camera continuously tracks your subject's face without having to press the shutter button.

Olympus FE-340 8MP Digital Camera with 5x Optical Zoom (Blue)

Technical Details

* 8.0-megapixel CCD captures enough detail for photo-quality 16 x 22-inch prints
* 5x image-stabilized optical zoom; Face Detection
* Perfect Shot Preview mode
* TruePic III image processor
* Stores images on xD Picture Cards

Customer feedback:

1. This a great compact digital camera. The pictures are clear and crisp. Images are not blurred and are vry good quality. Took it with me to the opening day of baseball season and I have had numerous folks comment on the quality of pictures this camera took and these comments were from folks that could care less about the game but were more amazed at the quality of the picture. There many different modes you can use to enhance your picture or correct red eye. I did a lot of research on the camera I wanted. Even bought another camera and took it back after having it for one day. I'm glad I went with the Olympus because it is our second Olympus after about 8 years and
our prior Olympus is still a very good camera.

2. This is my third Olympus camera. I am very please with it, as with all the others. I just wanted to upgrade to a smaller, but higher pixel camera.

Olympus Stylus 1010 10.1MP Digital Camera with 7x Optical Dual Image Stabilized Zoom (Blue)

Olympus takes the Stylus series to new heights with the 10-megapixel Stylus 1010, which boasts an ultra-compact 7x optical zoom lens that brings the red carpet celebrity or homeplate slugger seven times closer! A 7x lens (37mm-260mm equivalent in 35mm photography) that fits in camera bodies less than one inch thick is a marvel of modern design. Moreover, the Stylus 1010 features Dual Image Stabilization to prevent blurry images caused by a shaky hand or moving subjects, brilliant 2.7-inch HyperCrystal LCD to view everything in amazing clarity, and Perfect Shot Preview to see the effects of the specific settings before pressing the shutter.
Dual Image Stabilization combines two technologies -- mechanical Sensor-Shift Image Stabilization and Digital Image Stabilization -- to provide one powerful anti-blur solution for capturing great images whether the photographer or the subject is moving. Olympus' mechanical Sensor-Shift Image Stabilization keeps images sharp by adjusting the CCD image sensor to compensate for camera movement, which often occurs in low-light conditions when shutter speeds are slower. Digital Image Stabilization freezes the action with high ISO sensitivity and fast shutter speeds that prevent blurry images often caused by a moving subject. By combining the two technologies, the Stylus 1010 is able to take crystal-clear images in any shooting situation.

Olympus Stylus 1010 10.1MP Digital Camera with 7x Optical Dual Image Stabilized Zoom (Blue)

Technical Details

* 10-megapixel image sensor captures enough detail for photo-quality 18 x 24-inch prints
* 7x image-stabilized optical zoom; Face Detection
* 2.7-inch HyperCrystal LCD; Perfect Shot Preview mode
* TruePic III image processor
* Stores images on xD Picture Cards

Customer Support:

1. My special 'close-up' application doesn't seem to be covered by other reviewers, and my experience using the Olympus 1010 in this way may be of interest to someone with similar needs. I do scrimshaw wherein images are produced on ivory-like surfaces by an engraving technique known as stippling (creating tones with closely spaced dots). I like to photograph my work in a way that reveals the technique, and shows how images with fine detail are created. In most cases it is necessary to photograph the subject at a distance of about 3 to 4 inches. I could go into much detail about how I struggled to get results approximating what I wanted using other cameras, but with the Olympus 1010 all I need to do is put the subject in reasonably good light and shoot the picture with the camera hand-held in the regular macro mode. The results are so good that I have already consigned my tripods and special lighting platform to the storage shed where they will reside until my next yard sale.

2. Things I really like about this camera. :
*It is the size of my cell phone + a little thickness
*10 MegaPixel resolution
*An unheard of 7x Optical Zoom for a camera it's size.
*The 2.7" LCD is large, bright, and clear even outside
*Light weight design even with the battery
*Quick 2 hour recharge time on a long lasting batter
*I can use cheaper MicroSD memory with the provided adapter.
*It is packed with features and shooting modes
---Auto - Point and Shoot
---Manual - Adjust Options Freely
---Scenes - Pre-Selected Modes based on Environment
---Guided - List that sets camera settings based on what you want to do
*2 Continuous Shooting Modes
---Standard - normal resolution w/ 1 to 2 second delay
---High Speed - 3 MP resolution w/ very almost no delay
*Super Macro Mode - allows the camera to focus on objects less than an inch away
*30 minute video clips in the other modes

Features I am not fond of:
*To use the onboard and computer panorama, art, and 3D features you must use an Olympus/Fuji Branded XD memory card
---The alternative is getting some photo "stitching" software
*The highest video quality setting of 640x480 at 30fps allows only 10 second video clips
---This may be solved by an eventual firmware update

Sony BDP-S300 1080p Blu-ray Disc Player

See and hear a whole new world of high definition with the incredible BDP-S300 Blu-ray Disc Player. The crystalline clarity of 1080p Blu-ray Disc movies1 and DVD upscaling2 has to be seen to be believed. Amazing 24p True Cinema3 2 output and cinema-tuned picture presets allow you to see movies exactly how the director intended. And with BRAVIA Theatre Sync, you can now you can control your compatible BRAVIA TV and AV systems3 from just one remote.
Many movies are filmed at 24 frames per second (fps) and prime time TV programs are videotaped at 24p. Seizing an opportunity, some studios are taking a purist approach and encoding high definition video content such as Blu-ray Disc in 24p. The BDP-S300 wisely takes advantage of this by including 24p output capability. The benefits are smoother and more natural-looking images that make watching television an experience to remember. (24p video input capability is available on select BRAVIA televisions.)
Go beyond simple audio and video transmission with the "one-touch play" remote control feature that allows you to easily manage select BRAVIA televisions and Sony HDMI audio and video components with a single remote. (Available on select BRAVIA theater home A/V systems and components.)

Sony BDP-S300 1080p Blu-ray Disc Player

Technical Details

* Full HD 1080/60p and 24p True Cinema Video Output
* DVD Upscaling to 1080p via HDMI
* BRAVIA Theatre Sync (HDMI-CEC)
* BD/DVD/CD playback(4) and AVC-HD with x.v.Color output
* Multi-channel Linear PCM & Dolby Digital Plus Decoding

Customer feedback:

1. I just received the Sony BDP-S300 Blu-Ray disc player. I've plugged it into my Sony KDL-40V2500 40" Bravia V-Series 1080p LCD HDTV, set it up and have watched the movie "Flight Of The Phoenix". Setting up was quick and straightforward - no problems here. I noticed that this Sony player weighs much less than the Toshiba HD-XA2 HD DVD player. The Toshiba definitely has a more substantial feel to it. Both players are about the same size and dimensions - slim and trim, easily fitting into my entertainment stand.
But the proof is in the viewing, and the Sony definitely delivers. I am very impressed with the clarity, sharpness and rich color of the 1080p image. The picture is as good and in some ways better than the Toshiba. The reason I say better is because the Toshiba, great as it is, has a picture that occasionally flickers quite noticeably. There's no flickering of any kind on this Sony - it's rock solid so far. And the picture is beautiful.

2. Installation of this unit was very simple. Picture quality was excellent. Audio was excellent. Remote control was cumbersome. Machine startup was slow, but passable.

Xbox 360 Console

Xbox 360 sets a new pace for digital entertainment. More than just a cutting-edge game system, Xbox 360 also integrates high-definition video, DVD movie playback, digital music, photos, and online connectivity into one sleek, small tower.
Xbox 360 is much smaller than its predecessor--it measures approximately 3.3 by 12.2 by 10.2 inches and weighs 7.7 lbs. It's powered by custom IBM PowerPC-based CPU with three symmetrical cores each running at 3.2 GHz. It also carries a custom ATI graphics processor 10 MB of embedded DRAM. This is powerful enough to draw 500 million triangles per second. In other words, it makes for great looking games in standard TV definition, and even better thanks to built-in support for HDTV 1080i televisions. It also supports the widescreen 16:9 format.
The unit has a 12x dual-layer DVD-ROM drive, which plays both the game media and progressive-scan DVD movies right out of the box. For game-save and media storage this console package includes a 120GB hard drive. Along with storing files, the hard drive will make the Xbox 360 backward-compatible with part of the existing Xbox game library.

Xbox 360 Console

Product Features
Edition: Elite 120GB w/ Kung Fu Panda and Indiana Jones

* Premium black finish
* 120GB hard drive
* Sleek black finish wireless controller
* HDMI lets you get HD video (up to 1080p)
* Includes 2 games - LEGO Indiana Jones and Kung Fu Panda

Customer feedback:

1. For me, new owner, the first thing was the large 120gb HDD. I'm a moderately hardcore gamer, and don't want to have to think twice about space left on my hard drive. However, now there is the 60gb version which should be great for most people. But if you look at the price of the 120gb HDD alone ($150), the Elite is a much better deal.
The HDMI output was the second major deciding factor for me as I wanted the best possible picture from my games and movies. Plus my TV has more HDMI ports than component cable connections.
Also, right now the Xbox Live network is by far the strongest online gaming network. The others might and probably will catch up in the future, but right now Xbox live is the top online gaming network. So being able to play online with family and friends right now was important. Not many people have a PS3, which means that A: play games offline, or online by yourself; or B: make new online friends in a small gaming network. I chose the Xbox.

2. Overall, the system is great--they did much better this time around when compared to the original Xbox. There are tons of great games, and you can download all kinds of demos, stream Netflix movies, and harass your friends online. I do have a few qualms though, which are mostly related to the greediness that I perceive Microsoft to have. I was really excited about the fact that the Wii had a built in wireless networking card (though the online options for that system are scant at best). Nonetheless, I thought that it was a great move, particularly having grown up in the time of the original Nintendo that came packaged with a few controllers, a light gun, the system, all of the necessary cables and a couple of games. That was awesome, just to be able to get the basic package and have an awesome time with it out of the box without having to drop a few hundred dollars more. While this bundle aimed to do this to a degree, it fell short in a few other ways: I had to drop $90 on a wireless network adapter, another $36 on a second controller, $40 on an Xbox Live membership, etc. Sure, I'm a big boy, and I make enough money to buy my own toys now, but I had to spend more than $150 beyond the cost of this bundle just to be able to play with friends (both locally and remotely).

Sony Cybershot DSC-S700 7.2MP Digital Camera with 3x Optical Zoom

With 7.2-megapixel imaging, high sensitivity and up to 460-shot, Stamina battery power, the Cyber-shot DSC-S700 digital camera is an ideal camera for starting out, stepping up or making the switch from film to digital. Its 3x optical zoom lens, 24MB internal memory capacity and bright 2.4-inch LCD screen add up to a great combination of high-value features for first-time users. Boasting a sophisticated metal body, compact design and affordable price, the DSC-S700 easily fits into your travel plans or budget.
Bright, 2.4-inch LCD screen The DSC-S700 provides a bright LCD screen composing shots, checking results, sharing your photos on location and reading camera setup menus even in full sunlight.
Convenient photo modes To adjust quickly for specific shooting situations, the DSC-S700 lets you choose from several convenient photo modes: Auto, P-Auto, and Scene Selections for Twilight, Twilight Portrait, Landscape, Soft Snap, Snow, High Sensitivity and Beach environments.

Sony Cybershot DSC-S700 7.2MP Digital Camera with 3x Optical Zoom

Product Details

* 7.2-megapixel CCD captures enough detail for photo-quality 14 x 19-inch prints
* 2.4-inch LCD display; 3x optical zoom
* High-sensitivity shooting mode increases ISO to maximum of 1000
* Capture 320 x 240 video at 30 fps
* Stores images on Memory Stick DUO or MS Pro DUO memory cards (24 MB internal memory included)

Customer feedback:

1. I purchased the Cybershot DSC-S700 for my wife. She loves taking pictures but isn't into complicated gadgets. This camera is easy to use turn it on point and shoot. It has 3X optical zoom capability and additional features that will satisfy most photographers. I believe the Sony DSC-S700 is a great camera for the money and a wonderful gift for the amateur photographer in your family who just wants to capture the moment.

2. This camera is great for simple, family and or just general shots. The only drawback is that there is no audio playback on the camera itself. Therefore after recording a movie you will have to load it to a PC in order to hear the sound. However you can veiw a recorded movie on the cam, just with no sound. The Landscape and Macro modes are quite good as well as the program settings, its a great Cam for those wanting to start life in photography!

PlayStation 2

Whether you're a die-hard PlayStation 2 fan or a new player, this PlayStation 2 console will meet the demands of your game playing. The smaller, sleeker design makes it easy to carry around and enjoy games any time, anywhere. It keeps the PS2's powerful 300MHz processor, for enhanced clarity and mesmerizing graphics. Equipped with an integrated Ethernet port for network gaming, the PlayStation 2 sets new standards in the fusion of design and functionality. Approximately 40 percent of North American PlayStation 2 online gamers use dial-up connections and to satisfy this base, the North American model is equipped with both Ethernet and modem ports. Includes PlayStation 2 console, Analog Controller (DUALSHOCK 2), AV Cable (integrated audio/video), AC Adaptor (AC power cord included).

PlayStation 2

Product Features
Edition: Black

* DVD playback
* Digital surround sound
* 2 memory card slots
* Equipped with an integrated Ethernet port & modem port, for online play
* Ultra-slim 2.8 cm design, with half the weight of the original PS2 -- it's about the size & weight of a hardcover book, making it easy to carry & enjoy games and DVDs

Monday, August 18, 2008

Logitech Harmony One Advanced Universal Remote

The color touch screen and sculpted buttons, organized into logical zones with backlighting, give you easy, one-touch access to your home entertainment – even in the dark. Just one press and you're watching a DVD or your favorite TV channel. The ergonomic design fits comfortably in your hand, and because it's rechargeable, you won't need to worry about buying new batteries. With support for more than 5,000 brands, you can control home-entertainment devices that you own today or will buy tomorrow. Our online software guides you through setup, and our live customer support team is available if you need help.
One-touch, activity-based control provides any member of the family with easy access to home entertainment. The color touch screen has buttons that "think" like you do. All you need to do is choose the activity that you want. Want to watch TV? Play a DVD? Listen to the radio? Just press a single button, and the Harmony remote will do the work for you.

Logitech Harmony One Advanced Universal Remote

Technical Details
- Easy Internet-based setup
- Dedicated on-screen activity buttons
- Color LCD touch screen
- Contoured backlit buttons
- Can learn IR codes from existing remote controls

Customer feedback:

1. Using Logitech's Harmony One universal remote control, I can't help but hear Queen's "I'm In Love With My Car" playing in my head. That may be overstating the appeal of this device a bit, but not by much. I haven't been this impressed with a technological gadget since the Flip video camera. The concept of a universal remote control that replaces the various "factory" remotes that come with most home entertainment devices isn't new, but Logitech takes it to a whole new level with this device.
The Harmony One remote includes the remote control unit, a rechargeable battery, charging station with power adapter, USB cable, and a CD that is used to program the device. Setup is extremely user-friendly. Once you have the software installed, you're asked to provide the make and models of the devices you want to control, as well as a few questions on how those devices are used. The software then programs the remote accordingly. The total setup time is roughly 30 minutes, and doesn't require any significant computer skills.

2. I'm a 62 yr old great-grandmother, with a reasonable, but by no means expert, knowledge of computers and electronic equipment. I purchased the Harmony One Universal Remote yesterday from Best Buy. I buy tons of stuff from Amazon, but was in a bit of a hurry to get this up and going.
I have a not too complicated Home Theater setup: a 50" LG Plasma TV, Sony DVD/VHS combo, Sony AV Receiver, and Sony 5-disc CD changer, and an HD Motorola ATT U-Verse receiver . Up until today, I (and worse, my grandchildren) had to use a minimum of 3 remotes to simply watch a DVD (TV, DVD player, and AV sound), etc.
I had absolutely no problems getting this remote setup and working with ALL of my equipment. The software instructions were excellent. Until this remote, I did not have a remote, except the original "commander", that would work well with the DVD/VHS combo player.

Logitech V20 Notebook Speakers

Road warriors: you needn't deny yourself the comforts of home when you're on the road! Now you can enjoy great sound with a simple setup from your laptop! The Logitech V20 Notebook Speakers offer a convenient, high-quality speaker system for your laptop with rich, full sound and deep bass--all in a lightweight, portable design. The USB port provides power and digital quality audio--no other cables are necessary! Convenient multimedia controls provide easy access to track forward/back, play, stop, mute, and volume buttons that work with many software applications.
- Optimize your sound. High dynamic headroom circuitry offers greater volume with less distortion--and combined with the 2" Max-X™ high-excursion drivers and 3" pressure drivers, maximize bass response.
- Take them with you. The Logitech V20 Notebook speakers have a lightweight, portable design that folds away easily in the protective travel case.
- Plug and play. USB provides both power and digital-quality audio. No other cables are necessary, and there is no AC adapter to pack.

Logitech V20 Notebook Speakers

Technical Specifications

Total RMS Power: 2 Watts (1W + 1W) into 4 ohms at 1 kHz at 10% total harmonic distortion (THD)
System THD: less than 0.05% THD, before clipping
Signal-to-noise ratio: >70dB
Frequency response: 70Hz - 20 kHz
Driver size: 2" high-excursion driver with 3" pressure driver
Dimensions: 6.44" tall x 6.25" wide x 1.5" deep (combined)
Weight: 1 lb. 3.6 oz. (combined)

Customer feedback:

1. I was very disapointed by te sound of the built in speakers of my new Gateway computer so I started doing some research. I wanted a USB powered solution but was not sure about USB for the driving the speakers. I saw the V20s at a local store for over $80 but decided to pick them up. I cant belive how easy they were to install. Just plugged them into my laptop and Bam! Clear, crisp (And Loud) sound. You wont drive a concert hall but I have AC powered speakers that dont sound this good. The only problem is that they deliver a bit too much base and can bounce around the table if not adjusted correctly.

2. I use these speakers for my Dell Latitude D600 and they are wonderful. The sound is very good for such small speakers, and it really improves the experience of watching a DVD or listening to itunes. You can change the volume with the buttons on the speaker, or with the sound volume button built into the D600. The power drain isn't too high. I was able to listen to music at a pretty high volume for a little over two hours before my laptop battery was about 70% discharged. There is no software to install - just plug them in to a USB port and you are up and running (no separate power supply or batteries needed - they only need USB power). There are little braces in the back to tip them to the desired angle. There is also a nice little carrying case.

Logitech diNovo Mini

Enjoy total control of your PC entertainment from your sofa. Palm-sized, cordless mini-keyboard fits in your hand and gives you optimal control and access of the PC entertainment you love, including browsing the Internet, watching TV, listening to music and playing PC games. Dedicated Windows Media Center controls optimize launch and navigation of Microsoft's popular entertainment platform. Integrated, dual-purpose ClickPad enhances control and access with innovative technology that can be used as a touch pad and a directional pad. Rechargeable Li-ion batteries give you up to one month of battery life. Bluetooth wireless technology provides long-range wireless control from up to 10 m (30 ft). Backlighting makes text entry effortless, even in low light.
Palm-sized mini-keyboard with backlighting: Fits in your hand. Backlighting makes text entry effortless, even in low light.
Compact: Perfect size for your coffee table.

Logitech diNovo Mini

Technical Details
- Package Contents - Logitech diNovo Mini, USB Mini-receiver, Power adapter, CD with software, comfort guidelines and help center, User's guide, and Cleaning cloth
- Use as a touch pad to point and click or as a directional pad to navigate menus and make selections
- Backlighting - Makes text entry effortless even in low light with two different backlight colors- orange for cursor mode and green for media control mode
- Bluetooth 2.0 - Enjoy long-range wireless control from up to 30 feet away
Thumb-operated keypad design

Customer feedback:

1. Honestly, things are getting entirely too easy to set up. This one even comes with the bluetooth dongle already prepaired to the Mini. Just plug the dongle into a USB slot and it's off-- no more sitting there holding two tiny buttons down and wondering when the blue light is going to stop flickering. And let me tell you what I really, really like about the diNovo Mini-- there is a storage place inside the bottom where you can store the dongle when you are not using it! How clever is that! How many small bits of tech do you have hanging around that should be able to attach to some part of the parent item?

2. When I first pulled this product out of the box I wasn't so sure of it. The buttons looked small and close together. I thought that I was going to have problems typing with it. Luckily, that was not the case.
After a simple installation of the software, which also synch'd up with my G5 mouse, I was off and running. I am not a Media Center user. Most of my multimedia needs are met with Nero or various Adobe products. I must say though, with the ease of control of this device I may start using Media Center more. The diNovo Mini is very intuitive to any user who knows their way around a keyboard. Most of you typical buttons are where you would expect them.
I like the fact I can start Media Center with just a push of pre-programmed button. However, this button is also a gripe for me. When you are done with Media Center and you press the button again, I would have expected Media Center to close and XP to start up again. Instead the controller sent a shut down command to my PC. In order to close Media Center I had to use my mouse (minor annoyance).

Logitech diNovo Edge

An ideal partner for any high-end computer, the ultra-slim Logitech diNovo Edge delivers the ultimate in feel and response. The revolutionary TouchDisc with hyper-speed scrolling and pixel-perfect control makes trackpads obsolete. A slim recharging base doubles as a keyboard stand. Work longer thanks to the longer-lasting Li-Ion batteries, and more securely via Bluetooth wireless technology. Combine it with the world's most advanced mouse, the Logitech MX Revolution, for a premium desktop experience!
PerfectStroke key system: A precision micro-scissors mechanism distributes typing force evenly across key surfaces, making every stroke natural and fluid.
Stylishly sleek: Laser-cut from a single piece of Plexiglass and set in a brushed aluminum frame, the diNovo Edge makes a bold statement. Only 11 mm thick!
Elegant charging base: Put your keyboard on display while charging via the slim base/stand. Advanced Li-ion batteries recharge faster and last longer.
TouchDisc scrolling: A new type of touchpad, the TouchDisc unifies scrolling, selection, and cursor control. Scroll at hyperspeed with a touch of your finger.

Logitech diNovo Edge

Technical Details
- PerfectStroke key system - A precision micro-scissors mechanism distributes typing force evenly across key surfaces, making every stroke natural and fluid.
- Stylishly sleek - Laser-cut from a single piece of Plexiglass and set in a brushed aluminum frame, the diNovo Edge makes a bold statement. Only 11 mm thick!
- Elegant charging base - Put your keyboard on display while charging via the slim base/stand. Advanced Li-ion batteries recharge faster and last longer.
- TouchDisc scrolling - A new type of touchpad, the TouchDisc unifies scrolling, selection, and cursor control. Scroll at hyperspeed with a touch of your finger.
- Backlit stealth controls - Hidden hot keys light up at a touch, and fade into the background when not in use. The touch-sensitive volume slider gives you precise, fingertip audio control.

Customer feedback:

1. If you are in the market for a good utilitarian cordless keyboard to use, this might not be the best choice. But if you like unique, stylish computer gear, that still works well, then this makes a nice addition to your desktop. Even if you don't get a chance to show it off to your friends, you'll enjoy looking at it sitting in its charging stand, or on your desk. It must hold a pretty good charge, because I've only charged it once in the month that I've had it. So if you're thinking the charger is too cumbersome to take with you on a trip, you don't have to worry about it; you won't need it. And at about 1/2" thick, it won't take up much space in your bag. You could hook it up using the built-in bluetooth in your computer, but unless you're starved for USB ports, the receiver is about the size of a small flash drive (unlike the previous DiNovo Desktop). It connects instantly too, so you won't spend ages trying to figure out why it's not connected.

2. This is definitely a professional's keyboard. It's got a soft enough touch not to cause strain when you're typing for hours, but enough resistance, travel, and sudden reduction of resistance (I forget the proper term for how the key's resistance goes away once you've registered a keystroke) to allow you to type accurately. Being only 11mm tall, you don't need one of those cumbersome wrist rests -- your hands are barely above the table that you're typing on, so your posture is just naturally good. The keys are also a very good size -- I'm a touch typist (not trained; everyone becomes a touch typist if they type enough) and the keys are spaced very well to allow you to touch type without mistakes.
That the keyboard is pretty doesn't need further comment; it's also very solid. The first thing I noticed when I took it out of the box was that the keyboard was really solid. It may not be a cheap keyboard, but it's not made cheaply, either.

Monday, August 11, 2008

Panasonic DMP-BD30K 1080p Blu-Ray Disc Player

Blu-ray means incredible full-HD images, breathtaking sound and 5x the data capacity of DVDs. Now Blu-ray means something else too: an entirely new movie-viewing experience, made possible by Final Standard Profile, which adds features never seen before, like four Picture-in-Picture modes including Enhanced Commentary (from directors and actors), Backstage Pass, Peek Behind the Animation and Audio Mixing.
Combining a PHL Reference Chroma Processor with advanced P4HD (Pixel Precision Progressive Processing) imaging technology, the Panasonic DMP-BD30K Blu-Ray DVD Player utilizes UniPhier to reproduce crisp, natural colors. In addition, the DMP-BD30's HDMI output is Deep Color compatible, with 4,096 steps of gradation for even smoother, finer-quality images so you can experience movies just the way they were meant to be experienced. The convenient SD card slot on the DMP-BD30 allows easy viewing of hi-def videos and photos on your HDTV. Videos shot with a Panasonic HD camcorder are output in their original 1920x1080 resolution, while still images taken with a Panasonic Lumix digital camera are up-converted and output in 1920x1080 resolution.

Panasonic DMP-BD30K 1080p Blu-Ray Disc Player

Technical Details

* Final Standard Profile Blu-ray Player (BD-ROM Profile1 version 1.1)
* 1080p output: 24p/60p via HDMI v1.3 with Deep Color
* Up-conversion of standard DVDs to 1080p Playback
* Dolby True HD Decoder, DTS/DTS-HD High Resolution/Master Audio Decoder
* Pixel Precision Progressive Progressing for HD

Customer feedback:

1. Being a relative novice to hi-def video, as well as format neutral, it's hard to review this type of product without dragging compared products in, but I'll try. I can say right off that Panasonic has taken the sting out of the higher price of Blu-Ray players with a good offering of features you won't find in the, um, more reasonably priced choice. Not the least of which is performance. After a bit of research, I went with Panasonic due to positive reviews and how I feel about the Panasonic name, which has been associated largely with video, unlike other manufacturers who try to spread themselves across a wider variety of products. It was a good call on my part, as things turned out.

2. Being a previous Sony BDP-S300 owner, I found some important advantages with the Panasonic. It may not be that important overall, but the Panasonic loads in about half of the time that the Sony player does. It has a sleek look with a drop down panel that exposes the disc slot. The Panasonic plays all the current audio formats such as Dolby Digital TotalHD which many of the older player do not. Of course, you need a current receiver to play these newer formats.

Denon S52WT Networked Audio System (White)

Connect with your entire music library, including CDs, MP3s, and Satellite/HD Radio and Internet radio, in any room of your home with this powerful tabletop audio system. Just connect it to your home network, and you can stream your digital music directly from your computer. Or pop your iPod in the built-in dock for exceptional DENON sound right where you want it.

Technical Details

* Built-in CD player, iPod* dock, digital radio and alarm clock (*iPod not included)
* WiFi connectivity lets you stream MP3s and Internet radio from your compute
* LCD readout provides clear artist and source information so you can browse and select music right from the system
* Built-in sound tuned speakers and a mono-out port for the addition of a subwoofer
* Audyssey Dynamic EQ, Spatial EQ & Bass-XT deliver uncompromised bass response and tonal balance

Denon S52WT Networked Audio System (White)




Denon DRA-697CIHD Premier AM/FM/FM Stereo Multi-Source/Multi-Zone Stereo Receiver with HD Radio

The DRA-697CIHD receiver will shine as the core to your high end Hi-Fi stereo multi-room audio system. Equipped with many new features including HD Radio, it can handle almost any configuration combination. Its two source three zone capability allows you to run multiple sources to multiple areas at the same time with pure clean sound. With the HD tuner as a second tuner source, regular AM/FM can be listened to in one zone and HD Radio can be listened to in another zone. Being 4 ohms stable, it can handle the most demanding speakers, yet deliver smooth fidelity. Custom integration is no problem either as this enhance receiver has all the connections an installer needs to integrate to third party control systems.

Denon DRA-697CIHD Premier AM/FM/FM Stereo Multi-Source/Multi-Zone Stereo Receiver with HD Radio

Technical Details

* Integrated HD radio tuner
* XM satellite radio ready (requires XM subscription and optional XM mini-tuner package)
* iPod compatibility (requires optional Denon ASD-1R)
* Signal level divided construction chassis
* 100 watts x 2 into 8 ohms (20-20,000 Hz) at 0.08% THD / 4-ohm capability allows use with a wide range of speakers

Gears of War 2 Amazon.com Exclusive Lancer

The trademark weapon of the COG military, the Lancer is a fully automatic assault rifle that's perfect for short-to-mid-range combat. It's chainsaw bayonet is a powerful melee weapon that takes out most enemies in a single blow. New uses for the Lancer continue to emerge, with recent reports of "chainsaw duels," which combine the chainsaw attack with traditional sword fighting. It can also be used to cut a path through overgrown areas.

Product Features

* Trigger Activates Motorized "Chainsaw" Sound and Vibration Feature
* Side Handle Folds In & Out and Slides Back & Forth
* Removable Clip
* Created from the actual 3D data used in the Gears of War 2 videogame
* Powered by 3 "C" Batteries (not included)

Gears of War 2 Amazon.com Exclusive Lancer




Friday, August 08, 2008

Kodak EasyShare SV-710 7-Inch Digital Picture Frame

Start viewing your pictures and videos right away by inserting a memory card or connect your digital camera and enjoy. Set the mood with music by listening to your favorite MP3s with built-in speakers while you view your photos. The convenient drag-and-drop feature makes transferring pictures easy. View your pictures on the 7-inch 16:9 wide screen featuring Kodak Color Science for vibrant color and crisp detail. It is optimized with Kodak Light Management Film to provide a bright, clear display with excellent viewing angle. Display your frame on a tabletop or on a wall, vertically or horizontally.

Product features:

* 7-inch viewable LCD display
* Play back video and MP3s; built-in speakers
* On-frame viewing and editing features
* Compatible with SD, MMC, Memory Stick, xD, CF, and MD cards
* Convenient remote control included

Kodak EasyShare SV-710 7-Inch Digital Picture Frame

Customer feedback:

1. First off, the picture quality is excellent and in my book, that is most important. Pictures look sharp from almost all viewing angles. The image size is similar to a 5x7 and the overall frame size is like a matted 5x7 photo. This thing is flexible to the max!!
* You can view pictures on a memory card.
* You can view pictures on your computer (but you have to load Microsoft Media Player 11
* You can view all of your pictures and your friends pictures on the Kodak Gallery.
* You can download pictures to the built in memory from your computer via USB2.
* You can upload pictures from a memory card inserted in the frame to your networked PC (I'm not sure why you would want to do that.)

2. This is a good digital picture frame. It does more than I expected. The SV series does not have wifi. The EX series is the one that has it. If the EX does all that this frame can plus the wifi, I would go for the wifi. Clarity and picture image is good. My coworkers really like seeing my slideshows. So instead of dozens of frames of friends and family there is one rotating slideshow. It will even play music!

Sunday, August 03, 2008

Asus A626 3.5 inch PDA Windows Mobile 5.0, Wi-fi (802.11 B+g), Bluetooth 2.0 (edr)

A great productivity companion that will keep you connected to email and the Internet, the ultra-slim, palm-sized ASUS A626 PDA stands out from other PDAs on the market. Weighing just over 5.5 ounces, it features a brightly colorful 3.5-inch anti-glare touchscreen LCD and durable, fashionable stainless steel case. In situations where utilizing a notebook is more hassle than convenience, the A626 will help you stay productive and connected with its Windows Mobile 5.0 operating system and 54g Wi-Fi LAN (802.11b/g) for downloading email and surfing the Web in both corporate and coffeehouse environments.
With ASUS's user-friendly Remote Presenter application, the A626 can also be easily utilized to remotely link and control presentations on a computer via Bluetooth. And since all data is stored in flash memory (128 MB ROM with 64 MB SDRAM), your most important data remains saved even if all battery power in the handheld has drained away. You can expand the A626's memory vie optional Secure Digital (SD) memory cards.
The Microsoft Windows Mobile 5.0 Pocket PC operating system includes the Microsoft Office Mobile suite, which features Word Mobile, Excel Mobile, and PowerPoint Mobile. Meanwhile, the File Explorer application makes it easy to browse the files. It also supports Windows Media playback right out of the box. With Windows Media Player, you can play streaming and downloaded video and audio content in a variety of formats. You can also keep favorite tunes loaded on a memory card and listen to your music wherever you roam. With its front-mounted speakers, it plays a variety of popular video and audio formats (MP3, WMA).

Asus A626 3.5 inch PDA Windows Mobile 5.0, Wi-fi (802.11 B+g), Bluetooth 2.0 (edr)

Specifications

* 312 MHz Marvell XScale processor
* 3.5-inch TFT LCD touchscreen with 65k colors, 240 x 320-pixel resolution (QVGA)
* 128 MB Flash ROM and 64 MB SDRAM
* 3.5mm earphone jack
* Integrated microphone and speakers
* Full duplex recording and playback
* 1200 mAh removable/rechargeable battery
* Dimensions: 2.8 x 0.6 x 4.6 inches
* Weight: 5.57 ounces

Customer feedback:

1. Well, coming originally from Pocket PC 2002, I was interested in seeing what was added/changed in Windows Mobile Edition 6. (WME6)
For one thing, it's more Vista like in it's loading bars and in it's resource management. On initial boot, it is already using half of the available RAM, leaving only about 34MB for your programs to run in. Conversely, my PPC2002 device had 64MB, and the left about 42-48MB for program storage and usage. Also, with this device, Windows and your programs are actually stored in the built in flash, Although it has 256MB (probably 248MB or so once converted), only 174MB is available to the user. However, it does come with a lot more, which justifies the OS becoming much larger.
My PCC2002 was a light version to save on memory, so word didn't even have spell check. Well that is there now, excel now does graphics, and there is a power point viewer. Additionally, there are built in drivers and settings for WiFi, Bluetooth, etc. They have also added Transcriber, a new way to write, which I'll give more detail on later.

2. I have had my ASUS for two months now. Battery life is great and I have never had to reset it--both constant problems with the TX). The screen is clear and easy to read. It comes with a very nice slip holder--not the cheap kind you get with other PDA's. It has a very nice solid feel to it and is easy to hold. The bundled software is Windows Mobile and I was able to adapt to the change from a Palm OS system. I have found that there is a wide choice of outside vendor programs to download on Handango.com. Enough to meet my needs. (Reviewers of PDA's often promote the Palm because it has more software available) If you want a great PDA without a phone get the ASUS. You won't regret it.

HP iPAQ 111 Classic Handheld

The HP iPAQ 111 Classic Handheld helps you keep your life organized on the go with easy access to your calendar, contacts, and tasks. If you have some down time, use the iPAQ to watch videos, listen to music, or play games. At just half an inch thick, the iPAQ will easily travel with you. The iPAQ 111 runs Microsoft Windows Mobile 6 Classic OS and features a bright, crisp, and easy-to-read 3.5-inch, 320 by 240 touchscreen with LED backlight. The iPAQ 111 employs the powerful new Marvell PXA310 624 MHz processor and has 64 MB SDRAM main memory and 256 MB flash ROM, so there is plenty of space for all your applications to run snappily. With Microsoft Office Mobile, you'll be able to work on all your documents and files no matter where you are. Microsoft Office Mobile includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook. You can even view PDF documents.
Never be late again to your appointments as your calendar and contact info will be handy. With built-in Wi-Fi, you can also check your email at any hotspot to make sure there hasn't been a change of plans. Bluetooth is also supported, allowing you to go online and connect to your Internet-enabled mobile phone if Wi-Fi is unavailable (requires Bluetooth-enabled phones with supporting Internet service plan). Bluetooth accessories such as headphones and keyboards can also be connected for added functionality and ease of use.

HP iPAQ 111 Classic Handheld

Technical Details

* Runs Windows Mobile 6.0 and offers fast 624 MHz processor with 64 MB RAM and 256 MB flash ROM
* View and edit Word, Excel, and PowerPoint files with Microsoft Office Mobile; sync email and calendar from desktop with Outlook Mobile
* Built-in WiFi to check email at any hotspot
* Backed by 1-year warranty
* Device measures 2.71 x 0.54 x 4.59 inches (WxHxD)

Customer feedback:

1. I have owned several Pocket PCs, including a few earlier versions of the iPaq. Of the ones I have tried, this is probably the best, though its not a great leap forward. Having WiFi, Bluetooth, SDHC support (previous versions didn't support the new higher capacity cards that this one does - I have an 8Gb SD card in mine), a standard USB connection (previous iPaqs I owned use a proprietary USB connector) a relatively fast processor, the latest version of Windows Mobile all whilst retaining a relatively small form factor is a strong combination. Whilst many will opt for a Pocket PC phone (as my last Windows Mobile device was), having a seperate PDA from your phone has advantages for some e.g. if you are obliged to use a particular mobile phone for work (as I am) then you don't need the phone features on your PDA. With this device I can keep all of my personal contacts seperate from the business contacts on my phone and use the bluetooth feature to get my phone (a Blackberry Pearl) to dial any number I select on my iPaq.

2. I have been using this for a few weeeks and am entirely satisfied.
Being a 3rd party/mod buff I like the fact that is has the power of my old hx4700(May it rest in peace). It has douple the rom for more apps
WM6 accually uses ram as ram and rom as rom, somthing WM2003 SE did not do.
The screen is smaller and less crackable (get the hint?) and fits nicer in my pocket, however VGA would have been nice. I would highly recommend over the competition, even the up and coming ipaq 211, for it is a quality build

Palm 3245WW Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard

When you're on the move, sometimes you need a faster way to compose longer messages, reports, and even spreadsheets. This compact yet full-size wireless keyboard folds up for portability, while giving you the benefits of true touch typing. Plus, the freedom of Bluetooth Wireless Technology allows you to work with or without your Treo smartphone docked on the pull-out easel.

* Features a QWERTY keyboard with five rows of full-size keys (including numbers)
* Pull-out easel provides adjustable viewing angle and a steady platform for your Treo smartphone
* Enter or edit data even while your device is charging nearby
* Encrypted link connects your keyboard and smartphone for secure Bluetooth connection
* Get up to five months of keyboard usage from 2 AAA alkaline batteries (included)
* Closed: 5.7 x 3.85 x 0.75 inches
* Open: 11.2 x 3.85 x 0.55 inches (keyboard only)
* Weight: 6.65 ounces

Palm 3245WW Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard

Technical Details

* Word where you need to with your Palm Treo or Centro and this Bluetooth wireless keyboard
* Full QWERTY keyboard with five rows of full-size keys
* Encrypted link connects your keyboard and smartphone for secure Bluetooth connection
* Powered by 2 AAA batteries (included)
* Compatible with the following models: Treo 650, Treo 755p, Centro, Treo 680, Treo 700p, Treo 700w, Treo 700wx, Treo 750, Tungsten E2, TX

Customer Feedback:

1. I had used the Palm keyboard model 3169WW (Palm 3169WWZ Universal Wireless Keyboard) for a couple of years, and got fed up with it. It was being very temperamental. I've upgraded now to this Palm Bluetooth keyboard, and love it. It works smoothly every time, and is more stable so that I can use it on my lap without backing it up with a book or a clipboard. I can carry it in my pocket, and it's like having a computer with me all the time. I use it to take notes in meetings. I can write articles, and even used it once to write a book. The keyboard on this page uses radio waves to communicate with the Palm. The model 3169WW uses an infrared beam. And a cool thing is that either of these keyboards really impress my friends. I get comments like, "amazing!", "where'd you get that?" I love it.

2. I had bought an infrared keyboard for my Palm TX, but found that it was not easy to keep the connection established, as the Palm had to be positioned exactly with the sensor. The Bluetooth keyboard can be used with the Palm in any orientation/position. The only issue is battery life - of the TX, as the Bluetooth consumes a lot of power.

Philips USA AJL308 Clock Radio with 7 inch TFT LCD Color Display and USB SD Card Slot

Start your day right by waking up gently to a gradually escalating alarm volume. Normal alarm sounds with a preset volume are either too low to wake you up or are so uncomfortably loud that you are rudely jolted awake. Choose to wake up to your favorite music, radio station or buzzer alarm. Gentle wake's alarm volume gradually increases from subtly low to reasonably high in order to gently rouse you.

Technical Details

* 7" widescreen TFT color display for easy viewing of clock, radio and calendar
* MP3, WMA, JPEG, DivX and MPEG4 file support
* USB and SD /MMC card slot for photos, music and video clips
* Preloaded nature sounds and relaxation music
* FM digital tuning with 20 presets, dual alarm time and gentle wake with increasing alarm volume.

Philips USA AJL308 Clock Radio with 7 inch TFT LCD Color Display and USB SD Card Slot

Customer feedback:

1. There is a lot to love about this product. It's sleek. It's stylish. It's bright, bold and clear. (It can be dimmed!) It's a clock-radio with two independent alarms that also plays audio files (.mp3 and .wma), video (mpeg4 and divx codices) and photo slide shows (.jpg only). It has built-in "relaxation" sounds to help you fall asleep. It has so much going for it! And just when you think it can't get any better...
It doesn't get better. It slips a little. You start thinking to yourself, "If only..." and "Why didn't they just take the next step?" Why isn't there a tiny bit of built-in memory so that I don't need a SD card or USB stick to be attached to change the cute-but-becoming-annoying default photo? Why can't I select an audio file on the SD or USB as my alarm music? Why only three built-in sounds for the "relaxation" music? Why isn't there an AM tuner? Why isn't there a headphone jack? Why can I only display JPEG-format images? For a widescreen 7" LCD picture frame, why is the resolution only 480 x 234? Why isn't there a back-up battery?

2. I purchased this for my mom for a birthday present. I am so glad I did. This was a much better deal than a plain digital picture frame. She really enjoys the radio on it.




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