Sunday, August 31, 2014
Pioneer DVR-118LBK DVD/CD-Writer DVD Multi-Recorder, DVD+R DL, DVD+ReWritable, CD ReWritable, Label
I am partial to Pioneer drives, and that's because I still have a Pioneer DVR-110 in one of my OEM PC's, and another PowerMac G5 Dual Core (PCI-Express M9591LL/A) 2.3 Ghz PowerMac has a DVR-110, and those are both Region Free firmware-equipped drives that still, to this day, burn and RIP DVD's without mercy! They both function 100%, and I expect that this Pioneer drive will also work great for many years without issues.
As for installing such a drive in an OEM PC build, PC motherboards still have an ATA bus, and that's all you have to connect up: that is an ATA/100 cable, and you are good to go with the standard Molex power connector in place--I mean this is plug and play, no driver necessary to make it work. With RIP-Lock in force you won't be RIPping any DVD's in record time like you can with a DVR-110 (Region Free firmware) using this optical drive, but you can count on Pioneer's standard-issue drive motor mechanism working fine up to let's say 25X speeds, not 40X like in the DVR-110's, but plenty adequate for most uses.
For a mere $25.99 or so you can count on this being a bargain you can afford, too...I mean how cheap does it have to be? Isn't $25 cheap enough? I highly recommend this Pioneer optical drive for any PC or Mac use that you can think of--if you want the good Pioneer quality and reliability that we all know is legendary in drives like this.
Wavey Davey August 23, 2010I bought this as a secondary drive for my Mac Pro. All I had to do was change the connector in the back to select, remove the bezel, screw it in, and hook up the cables. My mac recognized it immediately and I was burning discs in under 15 minutes. I didn't have a bad packaging job like the other reviewer had. It was packed really well. Keep in mind when ordering this you are only getting the dvr drive and install instructions. No mounting screws or cables so have those handy if needed . It is a great deal for $25.99 and free shipping. I would definitely buy another one!Pioneer drives always seem to work flawlessly in Macs, so that's what I stick with. This particular one that I purchased most recently went into an Apple PowerMac G5 system. As is the norm for Macs, no software was needed and the operating system immediately accepted the drive without issue. Was burning a test disc in the Finder within 5 minutes. Unfortunately, I know this drive will not last more than 4 or 5 years, as that's the most any of them are lasting nowadays. Even Pioneer drives don't last anymore, because they had to cut corners to compete on cost. It's a shame. I would rather pay ~60 bucks for a drive that lasts then ~30 for something that will burn out before the computer does.No problem with installation in the iMac, works great. But, the packing from Amazon was very poor, they just threw it in the box with no packing. In fact the box was half opened when it arrived. I was crossing me fingers that it would still work, after seeing the condition of the box. Not a good job, Amazon!!!! I would of given it five stars if the packing was better.This drive has been a rock solid investment as I've had it for over a year with no problems. Of course it may die yet but I don't use it heavily so it meets my needs just fine. I have tried hp and Lite-on and will say they are terrible.
Aposonic A-BR18B8-C500 8-Channel H.264 Professional CCTV Surveillance Security Camera System with 5
As far as the video quality, those CCD cameras are giving me way better and clearer images than the old CMOS ones. Now my customer, can view all the locations, and be able to monitor their offices and stores. Customer Services is beyond my expectation, great service and support. all the technician is very knowledgable and resolve the issues quick. This system can be access over the 3G mobile phone device, which is a PLUS for my customers.
Sony ICD-UX200RED Digital Voice Recorder with Built-In 2 GB Flash Memory (Red)
To the reviewer who gave the item a bad review because it did a poor job at recording music... a few points. One, this is a Voice Recorder and is clearly marketed as such. So unless you checked the manufacturers specifications to see if it is rated to record the type of audio range that would be in music instead of just voice, then you should have realized this type of device might not be suited for that type of recording. You should not fault the product if you did not research it properly. Second, if it does support such a range for general audio recording, just because you can plug a line into it, does not mean that you are going to be getting a good recording. The input jack on this unit defaults for use with microphones. You can go into the menu and change it to Line Level Audio. But if you really expect to get the best recording quality from external sources (for this or ANY recording device), then you need an intermediary device inline with the signal to adjust the line impedance and/or signal levels so it matches what the recording device is expecting. Otherwise your signal and input may be mismatched and at best your recording will be poor or distorted. This device does provide active audio monitoring with a headset, so you certainly could have checked signal quality if you were using a headset with it and should have been able to get much better results with it.I was skeptical about purchasing this model because of one negative review on it's sound quality. After doing more research, posts on other sites explained that the small external speaker does not provide adequate playback quality. Truehowever, the recordings sound awesome once downloaded (or when using the provided headphones). . . especially when I hook up my external camcorder mic. I use it for recording band rehearsals & gigs. Very easy to download and email the mp3s to the other players(who rave about the audio clarity). I considered the Tascam which costs about triple the price, but after hearing other bandmates complain about the complexity of file format conversions, I am glad I chose the simple route.
Buy Sony ICD-UX200RED Digital Voice Recorder with Built-In 2 GB Flash Memory (Red) Now
I bought this recorder to record my lectures for class. I have a Macbook, and it works amazingly with it. You do not have to order any additional software. It comes with a USB cable, a rechargeable battery, AND a pair of headphones! I have posted a video review of this product on my youtube channel. You can check it out here:I demonstrate the sound quality and explain it in greater detail. =]This was my first purchase of a digital recorder, so perhaps with current technology, my expectations were too high. As features go, this unit has everything I wanted: rechargeable battery, stereo mic, external stereo mic jack, headphones, 2GB, multiple recording quality levels.However, this unit fails miserably at the only thing I need it to do record high quality sound via the built-in mic. There are so many problems where to start..
1) Any slight breath of air into the mics, even from a foot away, cause wind distortion and render your audio useless.
2) Every time you click the Stop button during a recording, you have an audible, hollow clicking sound at the end of your recording. That means after every clip, you have to edit that sound out. You can't simply start and stop a recording without worrying about having to edit out something from every single clip.
3) If you're holding the unit while talking, any contact with the unit itself causes noise on the recording that gets picked up. If your finger slightly slides across the unit sound. If you tap the back of the unit sound. If you accidentally rub up against some clothing, even if the mic itself doesn't touch anything, that contact resonates through the unit and you get that noise picked up in your recording.
4) The audio itself comes with a lot of background hiss, also rendering the unit useless if you are recording anything for a podcast or other high-end use.
If you only need this for dictation and audio quality isn't a high priority, then maybe this is good for you, but then you don't need a stereo mic and there are much cheaper units with the same features that would do the trick. I honestly don't understand what Sony was thinking with this semi-high-end recorder.
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This takes all the stress out of dictating. Its easy-to-use controls and USB plug are as handy as the color is refreshing. Plus, it's easily identified. I use it with Dragon Speaking Naturally Pro 11 and am writing faster than ever.Samsung D807 White Phone (AT&T)
If you find its short cuts which after a week of use you will you'll see it's extrememly customizable and easy to use. CNET rated it excellent after their extensive review system and said the only fault they found in it was the 'slippery' keypad which I have not had any problems with coming from the flat keys of the RAZR.
To the person that called this phone upgly, couldn't be more wrong. Unless you're looking at $600 phones out in the Asia and Europe market right now, there isn't a better looking phone out there!
p.s. the white is much more attractive but more feminine.I have had this phone for a little over a week and I am in love with it. It's so fashionable and functional at the same time. And with bluetooth and iTunes, you can make your own ringtones from any song in your library and then bluetooth it to your phone in the blink of an eye! So cool!! I can't find anything bad to say about the phone --the MP3 player is awesome with a sweet display --i bought the extra SD memory card and I have so much room now --the camera is incredible quality for a phone. 1.3 megapixels turns out to be a 11 x 17 inch photo at 72 dpi. I printed one out and was amazed! My friends are so jealous of this phone and all the stuff it can do. I love the colors on the displays, especially the rainbow color of the numbers! I'm very happy I bought it and you will be too!
Buy Samsung D807 White Phone (AT&T) Now
This phone truly is amazing. I researched phones a ton before actually receiving this phone, and let me tell you that no review does it justice. It's a beautifully designed phone. The camera is okay for a phone and the buttons are a bit slippery, but you can customize almost everything on this phone (sounds, fonts, colors, etc.) It's small and I don't see any problem with the earpiece volume. My last phone was a Sony Ericsson K790A and the call volume was worse, although if you're used to a loud volume you may be disappointed.The most annoying part of this phone is that the phone makes an annoying beeping sound with every single button you push (menus, text messages, dialing literally every single button). You can turn it off, but you have to turn off ALL keypad sounds in order to do it. Not a big deal, but I really liked the dialing voice that actually pronounced the number you were dialing while you were dialing, but alas, it has to be off to avoid the headache-giving beeping noise.
Overall I would recommed this phone to anyone. It isn't the most feature-rich phone on the planet, but if you like customization and having a very cool-looking phone, this is the one!
You will get a lot of compliments with this phone, and in my opinion the white is such an improvement over the black. It looks extremely clean and it's different than any phone out there. I wish I knew how many compliments I've gotten in the week I've had it.
Read Best Reviews of Samsung D807 White Phone (AT&T) Here
I just got my Samsung phone today and I must say that it is the best phone I've had so far. I upgraded from my Razr and the difference is night and day.PROS:
1. Lightweigh but still durable enough not to break easily
2. Color scheme is perfect
3. Camera is better than many other of today's phones
4. Can make a call with the slide down
5. Easy to navigate menu
6. Long battery life
7. Great reception
8. Volume is sufficient
9. Doesn't get dirty easily
10. Easy to see icons
CONS:
1. Only comes with phone and charger (thought maybe small memory card)
2. When first starting out, performing simple tasks may seem difficult. IE. transfering music, photos, videos etc.
There are so many good things with this phone that they outweigh the bad. I highly recommend this phone to children who want the music aspect of the phone, and to adults who want a quality phone for a reasonible price.
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I have had this phone for about a month and love it. This phone has everything i need like:Big Screen < Games are easy to see, and better game play compared to other phopnes with small screens. This phone displays big text wich is way easier to see and can be customizable. >
1.3 Mega Pixel camera < Pictures are very good for a phone, but not that good to print out. In the other hand 1.3MP is better than VGA >
MP3 Player < Very Good MP3 player ! Speaker is CLEAR and LOUD, but it would have been beter if it was a bit louder. I haven't tried hearing music through the samsund headphones yet.>
Expandable Memory < This phone comes with 18mb of internal memory, wich is more than enough, for games, graphics, ringtones, pictures, and any other data you save on the phone. But, if you plan to have more than 4 full songs on this phone, you will need a Micro SD card. Be aware ! this phone supports up to a 1 GB. I went out to get a 2GB, when i slide the 2GB card on my phone, it showed 998,687K of free memory ( 1,000,000K = 1GB ), and not 2GB, wich is about 1,998,000K. I went to return the 2GB for a 1GB and my phone showed the same amount of free space. >
This phone has very good reception, and good call quality. The speaker is a tad low, sometimes it is hard to hear the person you are talking to. Sometimes i have to enable the speaker to hear in loud enviroments, and even that the speaker isn't very loud. The download time for a song from my computer to the phone is about 25 seconds. I have problems trying to transfer songs to my phone because somtimes it doesn't let me. When a song is tranfering, it will stop at 20% and then displays a window wich says: FAILED TO TRANSFER FILE. I have to keep trying this for about 5 times, until it is able to transfer the file, after that i will be able to transfer about 15+ songs until it fails to transfer another song.
My Violin
- Over 160 lessons featuring basic techniques, rhythm tunes and popular songs
- Over 70 large-format full-motion videos guide kids through playing techniques
- Animated Fingerboard shows correct fingerings as the music plays
- Finger Tracker listens to kids play and shows whether fingers are placed correctly
- Creative interactive games make learning fun and exciting
Well, I must say that I am impressed with this software. You do not need to have any background whatsoever in music, which I don't. My son is very enthusiastic, and I have practiced everyday since it arrived. My three year old daughter is now asking for a violin for her birthday.
The animated characters are not annoying at all, and the games are brief, but meaningful. The games are like pop quizes that give you a wake-up call to point out where your short-comings are so you can reveiw if neccessary.
Another feature about the software I like is that you don't need the disc to run it. My husband has gotten a guitar so that he can play with the boy, and we have the software installed on 3 different computers.
Honestly, if you don't play an instrument, but you have always wanted to, you will not be disappointed with this software.
Read Best Reviews of My Violin Here
My daughter (5 1/2) is in love with this program. Though I sit with her for lessons, she's able to easily use the program and understands all of the functions with no confusion. The combination of videos, pictures, and sound clips make this very clear and the pace is good. We did over 2 hours our very first day! Every morning, she rushes out of her room wanting to do her violin lessons--we're now looking at purchasing the piano course as well---I just wish that they had more titles!I decided to try my hand at teaching myself violin. I read a lot of internet posts that stated that the violin was very difficult and nearly impossible to teach to yourself. This software makes all those posts absolutely false. The lessons are really easy to follow, the ability to watch a video showing how to play the lesson, than you can see exactly what stings to use and what finger placement. I have moved through the lessons and really feel myself getting better. I would highly recommend this software to anyone wanting to learn the violin. Don't be fooled by the age posted on the box. I am 25 and find this program teaches me in progressive way. One thing I would recommend to go with this is the bow right devise. It helps keep my bow on course and in the right zone. Not having an instuctor to help me means I need all the help I can get keeping the right posture and control. Just my thoughts.
Ematic EM638VIDBL Touch Screen MP3 Video Player with 5MP Camera with LED Flash and Video Recording
- 8GB Flash Memory
- 3 inches Touch Screen Display
- 5MP Camera with LED Flash and Video Recorder
- FM Radio and Recorder
- Durable Aluminum Body
JVC SR-V101US S-VHS Recorder and Player
Buy JVC SR-V101US S-VHS Recorder and Player Now
We use the JVC SR Recorder and Player for professional Video Transfer service . This mashine work great and we are happy to purchasing the system.We will recommend to anybody hu needs the Recorder.
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the product itself is fine but working with the company on returns or questions was awful. No response and if you have to return anything forget about it. It won't happenHaven't used it much yet but a professional grade VCR in a plastic box doesn't give me a lot of confidence.ZMODO KDH6-DASFZ8ZN-1TB 16 Channel H.264 Security DVR (1 TB hard drive included) with 8 x 1/3" Colo
Archos 15 GB Mini Jukebox Recorder
- Record directly from a stereo set, radio, or preamplified microphone via the stereo, line-in jack
- Includes 4 AA nickel metal hydride rechargeable batteries
- Compatible with MacOS 8.6 or later, MacOS 9.x; Microsoft Windows XP
Audio quality? Excellent, both on record and playback. The unit can RECORD (which is VERY nice) via a line-level analog or digital input, which makes this a great device for hooking to a line-level output from a stereo to transfer pesky non-digital sources such as vinyl or tape. It can handle qualities up to 320kbps in constant or variable bit rates. Playback audio is excellent and rather powerful for a portable device.
The internal battery is very convenient, IMHO...all it takes is a few hours of charging and you can get some 10 or so hours of playback time. No running out to drop some dough on more batteries needed, nope.
BUT...that's not all, folks. The nice thing here is that this also can function as a removeable drive, with USB transfer capabilities. So you can cram some MP3s in there, some large project, etc etc...and take more than just music with you. This'll be convenient for anyone who has to transport large files, such as multitrack session files for music types, or big graphics files for artists, or some specifically-needed piece of software that needs to move around, etc etc. Use your imagination, you'll find uses.
Plus, of course, this works with anything...sure, you can make an iPod work with a Windows box, but it's not quite so 'happy'. So with this being more 'generic', it seems to help with ease of use/connectability issues for different platforms. Just find a USB port and get busy.
The only flaws here lie in the headphones. They're pretty uncomfortable. But this is easy enough to remedy and, in fact, WORTH remediation by getting a much better set of 'cans' and using those with the Jukebox Recorder 15. You can appreciate the excellent quality of audio you'll get out of a well-encoded MP3 with this box that way.
I'm planning to take mine into some studio sessions I have coming up next month (June 2003) so that I can convert and 'dump' various mixes of tracks in MP3 format to the box so that they can be reviewed outside the studio, at leisure. It's good enough, IMHO, that even semi-pro-type usage of Archos's machine in this way is warranted. Very cool little machine, this.
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I am not sure what Gillian was talking about but it is rather easy to adjust the volume while it is playing. You simply press the up and down buttons. How hard is that? And the navigation is easy as long as you put them into the player in a reasonable manner. The back and forward buttons function the same way as windows explorer. The player is a bit heavy, but I knew it would be because it does have a 15 gb hard drive. The USB 2.0 interface is awesome, great transfer speed, and no errors. The software installation was a breeze and the batteries can be charged while it is on. I have never had it falter, or had a play error. This is a great player, but you have to have some sort of computer knowledge to use it. Don't be swayed by reviews done by people who are computer illiterate.Read Best Reviews of Archos 15 GB Mini Jukebox Recorder Here
This is one great piece of technology. I bought my Archos Jukebox Recorder 15 off of ...Amazon.com and it was the best choice I have ever made. The sound quality is Great. I have tons of my favorite songs on it and it barley took any memory. The controls are really easy to learn and i set it up in a half an hour that includes getting all my songs onto it. The only down side to the product it the manual doesnt give you much information to start off with. This is just my opinion though. I have had only one dificulty with the software but that was strictly user error. The battery charge seems to last forever and it is one loud ...(which is definetly needed for metal). I would definetly recommend this MP3 player.Want Archos 15 GB Mini Jukebox Recorder Discount?
i got this player for Christmas. The setup was fairly easy. I like the fact that i can use it was a back-up hard drive too. The Archos frimware is very iffy so i reconmend getting the rockbox one. It is better and has different fonts and even includes games like tetris. THis made the player better. It helps to have USB2.0 to help with faster tranfers. Transfers are easy becuase it shows up as another hard drive so it is a drag and drop job. Good playerPros
rechargable battery
upgradeable firmware
memory
capability
good looks
ok battery life
Cons
size (on the heavy size)
included headphonesIt is a very good product, simple to use and efficient. I just spent two hours understanding its operation. I have loaded hundreds of songs and have a lot of space left. It is not a lot heavier than the 64Mb units and the space is huge. I recommend it to every one.
SVAT CV301-8CH-X Web Ready 8 Channel H.264 500GB HDD DVR Security System with Smart Phone Access an
3ft Coaxial Audio/Video RCA Cable M/M RG59U 75ohm (for S/PDIF, Digital Coax
home theater in my bedroom.
Such improvement for so little $$$.To say that this cable is of low quality is an understatement. I know that with digital connections, cable quality doesn't really matter, it is either perfect signal, or none, but this cable is a waste of money. It is so thin, that it broke while I was connecting it.
Buy 3ft Coaxial Audio/Video RCA Cable M/M RG59U 75ohm (for S/PDIF, Digital Coax Now
Overall, this cable is of relatively good quality for the price paid. Works perfectly for digital coax SPDIF connections. Cable is indeed 75 ohm RG-59U. Thickness is 20AWG and is flexible. Keep in mind that this cable is coaxial, so it cannot be (or should not be) bent in tight loops or folds. That being said, cable is good but the connectors could use some improvement, hence four stars. The collar is quite thin and fits somewhat loosely on my device's RCA jacks. Squeezing/deforming the collar helps a little, but being as thin as it is, one shouldn't overdo it. This may be a problem for some higher-end analog connections, but for digital it will probably be fine. I also bought the 12-foot version of this cable, so you'll find the same review for that product from the same seller.Apex ADV-3800 Progressive-Scan DVD-VCR Combo
- DVD/VCR combination unit with progressive-scan DVD video and 4-head, hi-fi stereo VHS recording and playback
- Front-panel inputs accommodate camcorders and gaming consoles
- Active Fullscreen Function (AFF) displays widescreen movies in full-screen on 4:3 aspect-ratio TVs
- Plays MP3 and WMA CDs, JPEG and Kodak Picture CDs
- Coaxial and optical digital-audio outputs, Dolby Digital and DTS 5.1-channel surround passthrough
Buy Apex ADV-3800 Progressive-Scan DVD-VCR Combo Now
Hey, for the price its great! Easy to set up, works like a charm. Quality and features are excellent at the price.A few annoyances:
1. Even though it has dual audio outs, only one set seems to work with the VCR (I haven't tried the DVD yet), meaning I can't run audio out to my TV and my tuner at the same time.
2. The remote control looks and feels cheap. Small buttons, dense layout.
3. My universal remote doesn't know about Apex equipment, and so I have to use two remotes.
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The VCR is dreadful when it works. I have hundreds of hours of tape that this VCR has problems playing. It always skips and you can never get the tracking down just right. There is no visial display in tracking.Also, APEX customer support is factually non-existant. Their website answeres nothing and you can't contact them via email. Also, their tech-support hotline is open 8 hours and the signal is busy during those times.
You'll have to end up spending $30 to send the piece of crap back because buying electronic online is like playing Russian Roulette.I have had this machine for seven months now and I can't help but tell you how well it is performing. I was a bit wary of the all in one concept but this apex does everything it says it records your tv programs while letting you watch a dvd or as I have done connect my old stereo system and speakers to listen to mp3 cds. The recording function on this machine works much better than stand alone vcr's that I have used it records high quality digital cable. I would certainly buy apex again.After reading not-so-good reviews on most dvd/vcr combos on this and other external sites, I decided to try my luck with the Apex 3800. My luck was not so good with this model, as I found when I hooked it up to our tv. The front LED display did not display anything--no clock or counter display, making us believe at first that the machine was not powered at all. After figuring out that the machine was working but dysfunctionally, we put in a DVD to try it out. Every 10 minutes or so, a loud popping sound would come out out of our tv speakers. This never happened before we had the machine. This may have been just a faulty machine..but I'm returning this one and looking for other brands that are out there.
Sony SLV-D100 DVD-VCR Combo
- DVD player and 4-head hi-fi VCR combination unit
- Plays DVD, CD, Video CD, CD-R, CD-RW, CD-Rs, MP3s
- S-video and high-quality component-video output terminals (for use with compatible TVs)
- Front A/V inputs for easy game system or camcorder connection
- Virtual surround sound for theater-style audio
Buy Sony SLV-D100 DVD-VCR Combo Now
Before you buy this first edition of a DVD/VCR combo from Sony I would like for you to know some of its rather disappointing shortcomings. I'll quickly list them as well as give you a comparison to another DVD/VCR I've tested.1. DVD portion
The built-in software & functionality falls far short when compared to Sony's entry level DVD player (DVP-NS315). The SLV-D100 has only an on/off surround option, no adjustment of the picture quality, and it's method of handling MP3s will often not allow for easy picking and choosing of selections.
2. VHS portion
The VHS portion of the player is suitable, but just from the look & feel from the first few hours I wouldn't compare it favorably in any way to my Sony SLV-701HF.
3. Comparison
The first DVD/VHS combo I tested out was the Sansui VRDVD4000. It's software & functionality is superior to that of the Sony. It provides many more options and displays (it can even indicate the bitstream rate that the DVD is performing at!). I wouldn't say the VHS portion was too bad either. Also, it seems that the remote-control eye was better at picking up the signal from its remote control. The Sony control on the other hand would need to be directly pointed at its eye in order to get a response. Lastly, when the Sony tray is left open it will cease to allow any remote control switching between DVD and Line input unless it is closed. No such thing on the Sansui model, you may have the tray left open and not struggle with the loss of any functionality on the remote control . A major drawback on the Sansui model is that it ONLY has front inputs
If you are a Sony enthusiast like me, you will find that the SLV-D100 will miss your expectations entirely. Good luck.
Read Best Reviews of Sony SLV-D100 DVD-VCR Combo Here
I wish I had read some of these reviews before I bought one of these. I experienced two of the problems experienced by other reviewers. Hookup was easy and I liked the Auto Setup feature. However, I bought 5 new DVD's to watch and they all skipped at various places throughout the movie. At first I thought the disks were dirty, but they all did this just like another reviewer wrote. The picture quality was great but I would rather watch a VHS tape than sit through all these pauses and skips. Its like the screen freezes for a second or two. The other problem I experienced was slowness of the remote. I would push a button to navigate through a menu and it would take a second for the unit to respond. The audio and video quality was great but these two problems are causing me to send my unit back. Very disappointing as I have 100% Sony equipment in my Audio and Home Entertainment Center. I have been waiting for the Sony combo DVD/VHS unit to come out, now I'm sorry I did. I will send this unit back and continue to use my old Sony VHS deck and buy another brand of DVD player. Sony lost a customer on this deal.Want Sony SLV-D100 DVD-VCR Combo Discount?
I have a Sony DVD player. Sony claims a 1 year part/90 day labor warranty. First, the machine simply stopped working after 5 months. Second, to send it in for warranty repair, Sony wants for labor, upfront, plus I have to pay for the cost to ship the item. They don't assess the problem and then give you an estimate, permitting you to decide whether or not you want to go through with a repair. Third, when I noted that the cost to repair closely approaches the cost of a new machine, their customer service representative told me I should have purchased the extended warranty.My suggestion is, buy a more reliable product, not a Sony. Check out what the warranty, when you purchase. Select a product with 1 year parts and labor. Otherwise, find out what the manufacturer charges for warranty service.
Sony will probably charge more for labor for a more complex, more expensive machine. Watch out for deceptive warranty policies.I love the convenience of a combo unit, and I've had no problems with the DVD player. After just a few months, however, the VCR portion of the unit broke down. I play many more DVD's than tapes so this is pretty alarming. The picture looks exactly like what you get when you have dirty heads, so I used the same cleaning method that I use for the other VCR units that I use, (in the kids rooms). I have one of those tapes that you insert and play after putting a few drops of cleaner in it. Well, that didn't fix the problem, (how could the heads really be dirty after a few months of very light use anyway?). Be forewarned about this unit. I bought it since it had good features and didn't have the cheap "feel" of the lower priced units available in the market. My mistake. I'm ditching the thing, (will probably hook it up with my kids TV/VCR combo so that he can watch DVD's too), and going with a better brand.
Saturday, August 30, 2014
AVerMedia A188 HD Duet - Dual ATSC PCI-E TV Tuner for Windows Media Center
I don't use sleep or hibernation, so I thought it would not affect me, but after installing it for three days, it disappeared from the Device Manager on the fourth day. Restarting and shutting down the computer did nothing. I even moved it to another PCIe X1 slot, and it still wasn't recognized. The only way it would get recognized again is if I cut the power to the power supply (turn off the switch in the back) and wait a couple of minutes. Mine disappeared with just about every other restart/startup of the computer, which is extremely annoying!
Based on the serial number, it seems Amazon is still selling older stock. Two days ago, the tuner was there on bootup, but then disappeared after it finished booting. You know it has disappeared because the AverQuick icon on your system tray turns from yellow to gray. Rather than try to deal with it, I returned the POS to Amazon for a refund. Presumably Avermedia has newer cards which fixes this issue, but I don't want the hassle of dealing with it.
I think Avermedia should be made to recall all these cards... The complaints for this disappearing problem was dated back a few years ago...and I had thought all would have been addressed and fixed by now...but I guess I'm wrong. Too bad...it's a pretty decent dual ATSC tuner (especially given the price) when it works.
UPDATE: With the availability of the $25 rebate, I decided to give Avermedia another chance, so ordered another one a couple of months later, and hoping that I would receive a later revision (given that Amazon must have a fast turnover for their products). This time I did received one with a much later serial number. However, despite that, it unfortunately still does the disappearing trick. After installation, I restarted the computer five consecutive times...and then it disappeared from the Device Manager.
Other users have mentioned that this problem is mostly with AMD systems, which my latest workstation is, so I decided to try it on my slightly older Intel Xeon based workstation...same issue there...
Some other users indicate that it might be a problem with heat. I touched it while it's in operation with both tuner working (when it was recognized that it)...and it was just slightly warm. Deciding to investigate this issue further, I decided to underclock and undervolt my workstation to see if it makes a difference. The Duet seems to not disappear. I restarted the workstation many times and it did NOT disappear. Also, the ambient room temperature has been quite a bit colder than the last card I tested because it's now December. I even put this in S3 sleep and then woke it up...and it was still there. It actually operated like this w/o issues for the past two weeks with many restarts and shutdowns w/o issue.
However, just as soon as I set the voltages and clock speeds back to default, the disappearing issues came back. Now, you're wondering why I don't just run my workstation at the lower clocks and voltages. But why bother upgrading to a faster workstation if you're going to underclock it? The other thing was that the workstation (other adapter cards) wasn't 100% stable at 100% of the time at the lower voltages. Besides, you expect 100% stability from a workstation, unlike a gaming rig for example. So back this goes to Amazon again... I don't think I'll waste my time with trying another one (unless they come out with a newer version (not just revision).
Buy AVerMedia A188 HD Duet - Dual ATSC PCI-E TV Tuner for Windows Media Center Now
The tunner works flawlessly with windows 7 64 bit. The tunners also handle weak signals well, much better than my wintv HVR9500 usb. Best off all, you get 2 tunners for $68.99! One important note, this card is digital only. and no FM. If you have any low power analog staions in your area you should add a hybrid tunner. Vista and latter will see up to 4 digital and 4 analog tuners, so adding as hybrid tuner will alow 1 more show to be recorded. A note about how manny tuners you should have. To ensure you don't miss the beginning or end of any shows, (in case of those inevitable delays that ocasionally occure)you need at least 2 tuners to record consecutive shows on different channels. This allows a 5 or 10 min buffer at the begining and end. It is REALLY frustrating when you miss the last few minuits of a show because it was delayed and MC stoped recording to start another. These cards support PIP whan the included software is used, but I haven't tried it yet.Read Best Reviews of AVerMedia A188 HD Duet - Dual ATSC PCI-E TV Tuner for Windows Media Center Here
I recently dropped dish and installed this tuner on a new Acer Win7 machine. The installation was fairly easy and only took a few minutes to get the drivers installed of the disc. Now it is working flawlessly. I use Windows Media Center as my DVR. I have no complaints so far and love not having the bill from Dish. Any problems I had with the signal came from antennae adjustments. Now that I have that configured I have crystal clear HD signal.Want AVerMedia A188 HD Duet - Dual ATSC PCI-E TV Tuner for Windows Media Center Discount?
Workes well in Win 7 64 bit and in MCE:Win 7 64 bit does not automatically pick up this card upon installation. Nothing shows up in Device Manager.
Downloaded Win 7 64bit driver from manufacturer - and installed driver, rebooted PC. Volla! Card shows up in Device Manager without any problem. Driver installation was quick and straightforward.
Picture quality looks OK. HD TV looks good by itself anyway. No major difference I can tell from the Hauppauge Win TV card I have
One of the best velue for DUAL digital tunner, especially considering that I bought used. You really just need to card itself no other accessories/manual/CD are needed if you buy used one
Product limitations:
Limited by only 1 signal input, shared among the two tunner. So, if you want to hook up more than one sources (like cable and satellite) you should look for a different product
Digital only Over The Air (OTA) ATSC broadcasting, or Clear QAM from cable. If you need to tune traditional cable signals, or traditional OTA NTSC broadcasting signals, you need a different product. But why would you want to look at any thing other than the digital TV anyway?
Samsung SmartMedia 128MB Smart Media Digital Flash Memory Storage Card
Buy Samsung SmartMedia 128MB Smart Media Digital Flash Memory Storage Card Now
This was a dud. When installed in the camera it said no memory left. It came from China so I had no recourse to return itRead Best Reviews of Samsung SmartMedia 128MB Smart Media Digital Flash Memory Storage Card Here
I have an older Olympus camera and was not able to find this card locally. I am now using my camera again and am completely satisfied with the product and shipment. Thank you!!Want Samsung SmartMedia 128MB Smart Media Digital Flash Memory Storage Card Discount?
I had one of these before it just suddenly stopped working...However I hope to not have the same experience with this one...True Nightvision Covert Security Camera with Built in DVR
Philips LFH0884/27 8GB Digital Voice Tracer with Built-In Zoom Microphone Voice Recorder
What's better on the Philips LFH0884:
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a) The Voice Activated recording (pauses when there is no sound) will not cut off like the Olympus does. It will also connect the audible parts better and not leave you the feeling that you missed the first 1/2 second of every segments.
b) The quality of the recording and the sound is better on the Philips (frequency range on the Philips goes higher so more "HiFi quality than the Olympus").
c) Buttons are better positioned. With the Olympus, they feel like there are everywhere and it's hard to hold it and not press a button. Philips is easier to hold.
d) Comes with an external mic, and a zoom mic and headset.
e) Can do Mp3, radio (but don't use it for that purpose)
f) Recording range is also what you would expect (some recorder don't have the "range" because they are less sensitive) so no problem with the "range" with this one (I would not expect to record sounds I can't hear but it seems to record all that I can hear unlike some other recorders). The Olympus can also get a good recording, but does not have that "Zoom" capability isolating what you point to and not sounds around that you don't care about (option can be turned on or off if I remember correctly).
What's better on the Olympus:
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a) Heavier build.
b) You can plug in an external power supply so that you don't drain the batteries when you are the recorder sitting in V.A. mode waiting to record for days. That said, the Philips can easily do a full day (and more) on the 2 AAA in Voice Activated waiting mode.
c) Menu is easier to navigate on the Olympus.
Overall, if I had to pick on, I would just get the Philips LFH0844 or LFH0882 because of the button placement, the quality of the recorded sound and the better Voice Activated recordings which works better on this model (it's useless if it cuts off low sounds and makes a choppy recording).At first I really liked the recorder. It worked well for my class lectures. Then it stopped working. I was no longer able to return to the seller and support from Philips is in Austria. Told from seller to work with manufacturer and manufacturer says mail it to Austria and they will see what they can do. It will cost a lot to ship it to Austria which of course I have to pay for. Seller says buy a new one. Now why would I buy the same product that I know is garbage from a seller not will to help?
Buy Philips LFH0884/27 8GB Digital Voice Tracer with Built-In Zoom Microphone Voice Recorder Now
This device is superior to the Olympus product I previously purchased and is affordably priced, yet its recording capability lacks the tonal quality I am seeking.For those who use their voice recorder many. many times each day and have already owned a Philips recorder. Difficult to figure out, counterintuitive (or wrong) button labelling, poorly written manual that doesn't even explain the different screen indicators, absolutely non-existent online support (they send you to "Philips Dictation Solutions, which doesn't have this model), hostile phone support. There is no explanation to be had of what's on the screen. There is no designated power button, even though one is desperately needed, especially to get you out of the bizarre alleyways you can find yourself in. Instead they have an absolutely pointless "hold" slider and an "index button" that toggles between folders, or possibly indexes (they use different words at different times for the same thing). The indexes (or folders) are unnecessary anyway, as you can't label them. But they help make everything more confusing, which is Philips's idea of a good time.There is also an amazing lack of basic, actually useful features. You cannot fast forward within a given recording. If you are foolish enough to simply tape a 90 minute lecture without hitting the index button every minute (like if you were not there, or trying to pay attention), you have to play through the first 89 minutes at normal speed just to hear what was said in the last minute. So it is not even as practical as a 20-year-old micro cassette deck.
Oh, and the speaker is horrible, too. To get any advantage of Philips's supposedly fine recording, you have to play it back on the headphones.
There is one positive- it's easy to transfer recordings to your computer, and no drivers are necessary.
Buy this if you like figuring out how to work your technological doo-dads as a hobby, or want to punish an employee by making it his job to get it working.I'm learnin ! I don't have 14 more words for you at this writing!! Bug-off you darn pest ! Aloha
Honeywell 5853 Wireless Glass Break Detector
I purchased a FG701 that simulates a "flex" event followed by sound of breaking glass. The flex event, which was never well-defined anywhere, is basically an object hitting glass prior to a break. Combined, this sensor looks for a flex (thud of something hitting glass), followed by a breaking glass sound. This helps eliminate false-positives. I tested the installation locations with the FG701, mounted the units, and can say they actually work. I re-confirmed it by accidentally triggering the test sound while I had the alarm armed in stay mode :P The alarm instantly went off indicating the faulted zone. Further, I brought my tester to my friend's place with an ADT system that had a similar looking sensor on his wall. Without waiting for me, he went and played with the sensor. It triggered his alarm and the monitoring company called. As a result, I'm certain these devices work quite well.
Note: if you're installing these you really should pick up a FG701. It is difficult to tell if the location of the sensor will pick up both sounds without this device. E.g. how do you know if your drapes are too heavy for the sensor to be 25' away without *really* testing it.
Buy Honeywell 5853 Wireless Glass Break Detector Now
These glass break sensors work great and are very sensitive. I've accidentally set them off by knocking over a heavy metal cookbook holder in the kitchen, that my wife insists be kept in the middle of the counter. The sensor is about 10 feet from where the cookbook lives.Read Best Reviews of Honeywell 5853 Wireless Glass Break Detector Here
I've installed hundreds of these, and as long as you following the directions for positioning these are some of the best wireless glass breaks I've used. Very few I installed were defective also the ability to change the sensitivity is very handy!This integrates perfectly with the honeywell L5100 Alarm system. you can select snesitivity and simply mount it above the window or in the room you want to guard.