Sony MZ-NHF800 Hi-MD Minidisc Walkman Portable Music Player Review

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(More customer reviews)Having lost the 707 Mini Disc player which I had for 2 years, I have just replaced it with this model.
I picked this model because it offered everything I needed at a reasonable price. I could not find any reason to buy the 900 for $50 more. The MZ-NH1 has backlit LCD which is good for recording in a darkened venue, and is made from Magnesium which is tougher, and has a rechargeable battery. Worth $110 more? I don't think so. It is also better than the 810ck which the technical data says does not play mp3s.
I use the MD mostly for self recording, voice lessons etc, and occasionally for mp3 playback. Having also got the new 1 gb 45 hour disc mini disc, I am happy because it is now possible to get on one disc what I previously had to spread over 34 standard 80 minute discs. If I want, I can store about 900 songs, or 70 cd's, or save a whole year of voice lessons.
A major problem was managing the discs, and often running out of space to record a voice lesson or a performance. You can imagine how much easier it is this way. Another major problem was transferring self recordings to the computer, because the supplied software does not accept self recordings, apparently Sony even wants to control your self recordings, in addition to mp3 copyrights.
There are so many different ways to get mp3s now, I am not sure why this is even an issue. But it sure it frustrating and time wasting for people using this device legitimately. Ironically tranferring Mp3s is a very straightforward check in/out method.
I can only assume this has to do with potential unauthorized live recordings. There is no way these precautions would deter a determined bootlegger, so what is the point of making it more difficult for everybody?
I use my computer line in to record in real time, which can be a drag, and then using Cool Edit to tidy up, and edit the tracks and convert to mp3s.
I also bought the Sony Stereo microphone ECM-DS70P which gives excellent reproduction.
This MD is a great machine, and I highly recommend it. Hope this review was helpful.

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This stylish and versatile player lets you store up to 45 hours of digital music and bring it with you on a single, skip-free, 1 GB Hi-MD MiniDisc. The Walkman supports MP3, WMA, and WAV, plays back in ATRAC3 and ATRAC3plus audio formats, and includes an AM/FM/TV/weather radio built into the remote. When you want to record, the USB connection delivers burn rates of up to 100x for your MP3s and CDs.
A handy Jog Dial provides easy navigation, and music management software lets you group your tunes and customize your playing environment. This player also includes line-in functionality for line, mic, or mini analog optical inputs and a USB-in port, as well as such niceties as volume control for the included set of headphones. And, the player's three-line LCD display provides album, artist, and song title information on a clean, single screen. You can even store data from your computer, such as documents and presentations, on this player using its USB interface. A single AA battery, which you'll need if you want to use the device away from your computer, is not included.
Note: The MZNHF800's recording features and bundled software are not compatible with Macs.

What's in the Box The Sony MZNHF800 Hi-MD MiniDisc Walkman, a digital-tuning remote control, an AC adapter, a digital cable, headphones, a SonicStage software CD-ROM with a simple MD burner application, and a USB cable

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Electro Voice RE-20 Cardioid Microphone Review

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(More customer reviews)The reason these are so popular in radio, is that talk show hosts today (and their in studio guests) don't know how to talk into a microphone.But this mic doesn't care. You can have one person where the mic is pointed to the side, or pointing down at thier pants, and another person talking into it properly, and both will sound good and the same. No proximity effect on these mics, so they are idiot proof.
However, if you know how to talk into a microphone, and want one for voice-over work, the Shure SM-7 is THE best microphone on the market today. (So was the SM-5, but it is no longer manufactured) AND, the Shure is cheaper too.
However, this one does LOOK better, and it is just as widely used in radio as the SM-7, so if you really like the looks of this one, then go ahead and get it.
However, for just a few extra bucks, the RE-27 is the improved version with better frequency response, so might as well get the better one. It looks almost the same.


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Canon WFT-E4A Wireless Transmitter for Canon 5D Mark II Digital SLR Review

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(More customer reviews)Greetings, I've been an Amazon's customer for over 2 year, and this is the first detail review I decide to do, just because I'm a super fan of Canon and Amazon, and because this is a great gadget (at least for me) but extremely hard to install. Let me start.
Once I got the transmitter out of the box I was excited to set it up and start shooting everything on my sight, for my surprise the installation was the most exasperating thing I ever done in my life, (you think I'm exaggerating?? try to set the network without reading this).
The first thing I did was to use the "super" connection wizard (as recommended by canon's instruction manual) this only frustrated me, because I was able to see my MAC but I just didn't accept the FTP connection. After hours of searching the net I found a fantastic guy call Julian Love (I don't know if this is his real name) which took the time to explain step by step and with pictures to dummies like me, how to easily install the transmitter. His web page is: (in case Amazon don't display the address you can search the web with this words "JULIAN LOVE WFT-E4", should take you straight to his page, he deserves all the credit)
[...]
Something else that surprise me was that when you purchase this transmitter you need to have 2 LP-E6 batteries (or similar) one on the camera and one to run the transmitter, luckily I also have the battery grip and the LP-E6 batteries so this was not an issue for me, but If you don't have the 2 batteries and you're thinking to get this transmitter don't forget to purchase the battery too.
The transmitter (once is running) is fast, cool and really worth time and stress that caused me. I haven't try all the distance Canon says the transmitter can work and I don't think I'll ever use the complete distance any way. I've been shooting only full size Raw files and the time it takes to be copy on my Mac is about 3 seconds (pretty dam good, if you consider that the average file size is 23 MB).
Bottom line if you don't have the transmitter I really recommend it, and if you already have I hope this can help.
Regards.
MP
PS
When setting the network in a Mac just keep on mind that when Julian talks about login name and passwords you need to write your MAC's name and your Admin password, so Mac let you write on your HD.

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Pioneer Elite VSX-94TXH - AV receiver - 7.1 channel - black Review

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(More customer reviews)I love this receiver... let me say that first. It does it all! 4 HDMI 1.3 inputs, Dolby True HD, DTS-MA, crystal clear sound. I would expect nothing less from a Pioneer Elite product. I am blown away by the amazing sounds the receiver can produce when watching a Blu-Ray or HD-DVD encoded with True HD and DTS-MA. Uncompressed audio is great and there is no way to do it justice until your hear it. That said, there are a few areas of concern that I have experienced.
1. "NOT SUPPORT" message blinks occasionally across the screen of the receiver. This is most likely due to your component or your display having an issue with HDCP. But, after talking to the Pioneer Elite team on the phone and trying to troubleshoot it, I was left with the intermittent problem. I believe the root is my Sony VPL-VW60 projector not accepting a 1080/24p signal. I think I may have eliminated the problem by outputting only 1080/60p from my Pioneer Elite BDP-95FD (Another GREAT piece of equipment).
***FOLLOW UP - The "NOT SUPPORT" was blinking because I had the HDMI Control turned off on everything. However, the HDMI control on the Receiver itself does not actually turn off (even when "off" is selected and the machine is restarted). To remedy this, I turned on the HDMI control on every piece of equipment even though I am using a universal remote and really don't need it to be turned on to select inputs. The reason I turned it off on the receiver was based on the advice from Pioneer via the telephone. They were 100% incorrect in their diagnosing of the problem. Hopefully this will be solved with future firmware updates. Using HDMI control on all components and the receiver does work almost flawlessly. I say "almost" since HDMI control is not 100% compatible between devices from different manufacturers. You can research this point many places on the web.***
2. The onscreen menu for adjusting Receiver features and setup is HORRIBLE!! Not only is the color scheme b/w, but the text looks like something out of a 1978 PONG gaming system box. C'mon Pioneer. i know the setup menu is not super-important in the big scheme of things. But...
Other than those two minor complaints, I can't imagine owning a better receiver. This receiver comes at a high price, but I believe it is well worth it if you want the best. I ordered from ButterflyPhoto via Amazon, and the unit arrived perfectly. I am very happy with this purchase!

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Nokia N73 Music Edition Unlocked Quadband Phone (Black) Review

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(More customer reviews)Actually, I bought this phone by mistake, since I thought it wouldn't be shipped all the way to Colombia, but it did (in less than seven days). To this point I had only bought books through Amazon and in trying to buy other products had failed due to shipping restrictions, although Amazon and its reseller E-tronics came through this time. Great job guys.
Ok, down the brass tax: the Nokia N73 ME is a complete multimedia experience, camera, music player, and yes a phone, complete with all the extras, which led me to sell my old iPod just last week. And since I didn't own a camera, it was fantastic. The camera works great (for a phone), although, you have to become a wiz at adjusting all the settings it comes packed with for your picture to come out great in environments with little light. I'm totally psyched with it, shooting everything that moves. The Symbian OS is well designed and pretty robust, supporting any kind of application you might find.
The only downside is that at the beginning it was a little slow while browsing in between applications. But you can fix this problem by downloading the Nokia Software Updater which allows you to update your phone's firmware. I updated my N73 with the latest version (v.4.0727.2.2.1) and the problem was solved, along with dozens of other bugs. And in sync with the Nokia PC Suite it's like having your office in your pocket. Really it is.
OK buddy, that's it for now. Hats off to Nokia for making an awesome phone. Your bank account might get pissed off, but your life will most definitely improve: your life in there. Oh, and the best of all is that my childish and unfounded need for the coveted iPhone is now gone. Righty Oh!

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Who says you can't have fun with a business phone? The Nokia N73 music edition smartphone packs the latest Symbian S60 software--ideal for business applications--as well as a handy 3.2-megapixel camera with Carl Zeiss optics, and an advanced music player--perfect for when it's time to let your hair down. Other key features packed into its thin, candybar formfactor include quad-band GSM capabilities with EDGE data, a QVGA display, and a miniSD memory card slot. The Nokia N73 is the perfect solution for when you need a powerful phone for business and pleasure.
DesignThe first thing you'll notice about the N73 is its active matrix display. With an adjustable display brightness feature, and support for up to 262,144 colors within 240 x 320 pixels, it's perfect for viewing documents, images, and Web pages. A high-quality handsfree speakerphone allows for conference calls and multitasking (combining voice calls with calendar viewing, SMS, and email), while the XHTML browser allows for convenient Internet use. For ultimate connectivity convenience, the N73 features Bluetooth, a USB pop port (including USB mass storage mode), and infrared. The N73 sports a user-friendly and intuitive interface while maintaining a small, slim, and sleek design.
The N73's user interface revolves around two soft keys with a five-way scroll. The two soft keys can be programmed for shortcut access to features like the calendar application, the camera mode, a Bluetooth wireless connection, or other useful applications.
Calling FeaturesThe N73 sports advanced voice features that are especially useful for heavy phone users--at home or at work. Key calling features include voice dialing and voice command--both great features for when you're on the road and need to access phone menus or phone numbers while keeping both hands on the wheel--as well as Nokia PoC (push to talk), a convenient business feature that keeps you in touch with a simple push of a button. The N73 also features an advanced contacts database with support for multiple device and email details per entry while a call log keeps lists of your dialed, received, and missed calls. The N73 brings select desk phone functions to your mobile phone including call forwarding, holding, conference calls, and more.
Messaging, Internet, and ToolsIf needs be, the N73 can be a business workhorse. The N73 also comes stock with support for the leading push email clients, giving you easy email access in real time. There's even an XHTML browser for convenient Internet viewing, and you'll be able to load pages fast with the N73's EDGE data compatibility.
Connectivity with compatible PCs and supported devices is simple and easy with the N73's infrared, Bluetooth wireless technology, and USB cable compatibility. Other built-in tools include an organizer feature that includes contacts with images, a calendar with an accept/reject function for meeting requests, and to-do list. There's also a built-in office application viewer for documents such as Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel attachments (Microsoft Office, 2000, XP and 2003). The N73 even sports a unique feature that allows you to search for files or content (including messages, emails, and notes). Lastly, the N73 also comes with the ability to synchronize with Microsoft Outlook and Lotus Notes--a feature that allows you to have the latest meetings, contacts, and notes on hand.
Imaging and Entertainment A testament to its ability to shine in all technological arenas, with a built-in radio and an advanced music player with ample storage capacity, the N73 excels in portable music capabilities. The N73's visual radio allows you get see and do more while listening to the radio. Song info, artist biographies, and band pictures area available with the phone's Visual Radio capabilities. With Visual Radio built into your mobile device, you can listen to any FM station you like. When you tune in to a Visual Radio enabled station, you'll enjoy a completely new kind of radio experience. What you hear will be good old FM Radio, and what you see will be a visual, interactive channel with more information and opportunities to participate and give feedback--even the ability to vote in radio online polls (Please note: carrier data charges apply).
Not only does the N73 come with an advanced music player and the ability to keep the music rolling while accessing other phone applications, it also allows you to carry up to 1,500 songs with a 2 GB miniSD memory card (sold separately). With support for MP3, AAC, eAAC, eAAC+, and WMA music files, and the ability to drag and drop tracks from your PC onto the phone, the N73 is an ideal way to take your favorite tunes with you, and when it's time to listen, you can find those tracks on the go with ease via the built-in dedicated music key.
And because the N73 supports Java based programs, you can play and enjoy Java based games and applications.
Vital Statistics The Nokia N73 weighs 4.09 ounces and measures 4.33 x 1.93 x 0.75 inches. Its lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 4.10 hours of digital talk time, and up to 350 hours of digital standby time. It runs on the GSM/GPRS/EDGE 850/900/1800/1900 and WCDMA 2100 frequencies. The phone comes with a one year limited warranty.

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Niles ZR-8630AV - Multizone receiver Review

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(More customer reviews)In 2004 I installed a whole house audio systems using the Niles BOB multi-zone receiver. 4 years later the systems has performed flawlessly and remains the best ROI on our remodeling. I paired the Niles with in ceiling, bookshelf and wall mount B&W speakers. Most of the time I drive the system from an IMAC that sources my iTunes library. I don't use the video distribution capability at all for my application so I don't have any input regarding those features. I found the wall mounted zone select and volume controls quite reliable. I also have the LCD control panel and a couple of remotes but I rarely use them.
I was considering buying the newer Niles for another application to get the XM radio integration but am not sure that has good ROI since all media video and audio is rapidly becoming easily accessible on the WWW. I'd buy another BOB again for audio fidelity, reliability and ease. But your choice of buying a Niles or say a SONUS should be based on how you listen to music and the sources of that music and of course if you can support running cat5 cables to all the controllers(which BOB requires).
Good luck and enjoy!


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Brand New Kenwood Excelon Dnx6960 All-in-one Double Din 6.1" Touch-screen Monitor/dvd/player/navigation Combo Receiver with Dual Zone, Ipod Interface, Advanced Garmin Gps, and Remote Review

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(More customer reviews)I've used this unit since Feb '10, purchased it from Crutchfield when it came out.
Pros:
1) The Garmin based GPS navigation is far and away better than most factory navigation programs that I've seen. Secondly, the unit is essentially a Garmin Nuvi. One look at the file structure on the unit (hooking your computer up to the mini-USB port in the back of the unit) shows a typical Garmin based directory which also means that the maps should be upgradeable using the Navteq updates Garmin sells - or using the version you have if you bought a Garmin GPS unit recently. I don't see why you would have to wait for the unit-specific upgrade, the normal GPS data should work just fine. We'll see when I upgrade it myself.
2) The unit comes with a rolling color scheme. It's a small thing, but the option to match your interior lights in your car is nice.
3) I have had zero problems with the unit since February. I have not fiddled with any firmware or other major software updates. My wife plugged her iPhone into the unit and it worked just fine as well. Bottom line, 10 months of use and no problems. If you want to bypass the video lock feature so your passenger can watch movies as you drive, just look on the kenwood USA forums. It's easier than on the Pioneer units, from what I understand.
Cons:
1) Boot up time is pretty slow. The unit is, naturally hooked up to your car power, so if you drive a manual tranny, and you happen to stall in slow traffic, driveway, etc., when you restart the engine, the GPS will go on/off. However, it will resume navigation from the last set destination immediately upon reboot.
2) I'm thinking of purchasing the KNA-NT100, which is the Navteq FM based traffic information source. Frankly, the unit should comes with this. Combined with the DVD player and the aux-in and iPod/iPhone connection, you have everything that you and your passenger could use during a long drive. However, you will have to pay for the wiring for the apple products and the FM traffic receiver. El cheapo mp3 players, like the one I have, can be plugged into the USB port, but I don't think players like Microsoft's zune or more advanced ones which hide the directories on the device will work with the USB function on the receiver. You can, however, plug an aux-in cable in and just play your audio through that (as I do).
3) Menus are slow and the UI looks pretty dated. However, you have a user upgradeable GPS unit, with a nice big touch screen (which is resistive, so you can use it with your gloves on - something you can't do with a capacitative screen such as your smartphone during the winter in the Northeast) which has quite a few nice features.
The unit only got 4 stars because my brother's HTC HD2 simply won't get detected by this unit. My blackberry bold 9650 and the wife's iphone 4 (and her old LG KF900) were detected just fine, but apparently there are some bluetooth incompatabilities, and the HD2 is one of them. If you want to use that phone in particular with your navigation unit...well, SOL. Since this unit is in my car and not his, however, it's a great unit for me.
No complaints here.

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