MDR-XB950BT/B Extra Bass Boost Bluetooth Headset

The MDR-XB950BT/B is a wide, adjustable closed-back type of headband headset that completely covers your ears to minimize background noise and give you a studio like sound environment. You can operate it as a  wireless headband headset via Bluetooth or using the supplied cord as a fixed headset. The MDR-XB950BT/B features large dome driver (speaker) units with electronic bass boot and active noise cancellation. With the XB950BT you have the convenience of answering calls and managing your playlists wirelessly through its Bluetooth feature.

 

 

 

 

 

Full tech Specs of the MDR-XB950BT/B Bluetooth Headset

40 mm, dome Driver unit

The dome drivers adopted by Sony particularly for this MDR-XB950BT/B headset respond virtually flawlessly across the entire audio signal range of 20-20kHz. Their size allows them to reproduce perfect and high quality low frequency notes giving you a studio sound experience. 

MDR-XB950BT/B Sensitivity

Sensitivity of a headphone is a measure of how loud a headphone is if a given level of an audio source is impressed at its input terminals. It shows how effectively a given headphone converts an input audio voltage into an acoustic or sound signal. Sensitivity is normally stated as Sound Pressure Level (SPL) in dB (decibels) per mW(milli watt) or SPL dB/mW.
The MDR-XB950BT/B is rated at 102dB/mW sensitivity using the supplied cord. This means it produces an acoustic signal of 102dB of Sound Pressure Level if 1 mW of an audio signal is impressed at its terminals. Please note that, sensitivity is not linear! For instance doubling the power of the input audio signal to 2 mW does not double the SPL to say 204dB. The engineering and mathematics involved is beyond the scope of this article. 
Typical headphone sensitivity ranges between 80dB/mW to 125dB/mW. The higher this value is, the louder a given headset will be for a given input and the converse is true.

 

Extended Comfort

The lush, wrap around ear cushions provide a seal out for background noise while allowing for a comfortable listening experience for extended periods.

Frequency Response a.k.a Bandwidth 

The MDR-XB950BT/B gives an almost linear response for frequencies between 3Hz and 28kHz using the supplied cord while the effective frequency range in Bluetooth mode is 20-20kHz. All frequencies outside this range are severely attenuated or marginally reproduced. The large frequency response range is attributable to the large (40mm) dome drivers adopted for this headset. However, this choice sacrifices the higher tweeter-like and woofer-like amplification gains you would experience if different drivers were adopted for this purpose. Sony cleverly 'outwits' this drawback using a specially designed Digital Signal Processor (DSP) to electronically boost the low frequency response (Electronic Bass Boost).

Electronic Bass Boost 

This is a feature built into the MDR-XB950BT/B in which a DSP designed with special audio codecs remarkably improves the low-end bass response of headphones. The DSP produces club-like music with enhanced bass by a mere press of a Bass Boost Button.

Supported Audio File Formats

• SBC codec support

 All Bluetooth devices are designed to support SBC codec by default. SBC is a low complexity and medium bit rate sub-band codec for the Advanced Audio Distribution Profile (A2DP) which was specified by the Special Interest Group (SIG) for data transfer between Bluetooth devices. It was specified to optimally utilize the limited Bluetooth bandwidth and additionally, conform to the low power data transmission constraints.

• AAC codec support

• aptX codec support

General

• Can be used as a wireless headband headset with Bluetooth on or as a fixed headset using the supplied detachable cord.
• The MDR-XB950BT/B has an Active Noise Control switch on the on ear-cup
• Gold-plated stereo mini plug

Hardware

• Omni directional, electret condenser microphone. An electret is a stable dielectric with a permanent electrostatic charge. The effective operational frequency range of the microphone is from 100 Hz - 4,000 Hz.
• Detachable stereo connecting cord
• Micro-USB charging cable
• Remote Control : Via Bluetooth AVRCP: Play, Pause, FF, FR, Volume +/-, Bass Boost on/off

Power

• Built-in Lithium-ion rechargeable battery
• Battery Life (Approx) : Continuous music playback: up to 20 hours; Continuous communications: up to 20 hours; Standby time: up to 200 hours
• Battery Charging (Approx) : Appox. 4 hours for full charge
• Power Handling Capacity : 1000 mW using supplied stereo cord
• Power Consumption in Operation : 1.5 W

Speaker (Driver unit)

Sony adopted the 40mm dome type dynamic closed speakers for the MDR-XB950BT/B with measured impedance of  24 ohms at 1 kHz using supplied cable. When we speak of impedance of a headset we mean the measure of opposition to the flow of an audio signal current through the speaker circuit.

Weights and Measurements

• Cord Length (Approx.) : 1.2m Headphone cable,  0.5m micro-USB cable for battery charging
• Weight (Approx.) : 10 oz. (280 g) without cord

Wireless features

• The Bluetooth version adopted for MDR-XB950BT/B is version 3.0 and operates in the 2.4 GHz band (2.4000 GHz-2.4835 GHz). It uses Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS) techniques to data transmission.
• It uses the Advanced Audio Distribution Profile (A2DP) for audio streaming with a transmission range of 20-20kHz and line of sight of 30 ft or 10 m.
• The MDR-XB950BT/B has the NFC capability for Bluetooth pairing.

Buying guide

• This headband headset is relatively priced; going for $199.9 as compared to similar premium sound headsets that can very easily go for as much as $600. The MDR-XB950BT is a compromise between professional studio application and an ordinary usage.

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Samsung 4K Smart Ultra HDTV UN65F9000

The television market has been bombarded by a number of technological advancements over the past few years, which consumers have had to embrace, namely; HD ready, Full HD, 3D TV, LED HDTV, LED

SMART TV, OLED HDTV, 4K UHD TV, 8K UHD TV, etc. As compelling as each technology might be, each has its own challenges and an ultimate impact on the final price of the product. Consequently, each manufacturer pushes their own vision of the 'next big thing in television' to remain competitive. A typical example is the innovation in 3D technology which has been shelved for now in favor Ultra High Definition TV models even when media content for such resolutions is not widely available if any.

The F9000 series is featured in two sizes; Samsung 55" UN55F9000 Series 4K Ultra HD Smart LED TV and  the 65" UN65F9000 series 4K Ultra HD Smart LED TV.  Both models support 3D at Full HD resolution with 2D to 3D conversion feature. All their core functions are supported by a powerful Quad Core Processor that allows for faster multitasking and full web browser support. For the remainder of this article, I'll focus on the 65" UN65F9000 model.

Attractive Features on the UN65F9000

• Ultra High Definition (UHD) TV

The UN65F9000 features an unequaled 4K picture quality at 3840 x 2160  resolution. Enjoying your 4K blockbuster movies and TV shows has never been made easier. Have fun with picture quality at four times Full HD resolution.

• 4K Standard Future Proof TV

The UN65F9000 is built with an evolutionary feature. With this feature you simply connect a new 'One Connect Box' to your TV for an upgrade to the new UHD hardware and software standards. The UN65F9000 is a 4K TV that will be around for the foreseeable future.

• Smart TV

The Smart TV feature also known as 'hybrid TV' or 'connected TV' has through a lot of tweaking by manufacturers and significant improvements have been made. With Smart TV set-top boxes, you enjoy full internet support complete with Web 2.0 features. The Samsung Smart TV feature on the F9000 4K TVs has been made even 'smarter' with the ability to find search for your favorite movies, TV, and more by voice commands and gesturesto swipe. All you need is to speak into the mic on the Smart Touch Remote to get TV recommendations. From which you can make further content selection from the 5 Smart Hub content panels by use of hand gestures.

Full tech specs of the  UN65F9000 4K UHD TV

Crystal clear High Definition picture

• Ultra High Definition

The screen resolution of the UN65F9000 is of Ultra High Definition dimension (3840 x 2160) which is four times the resolution available with Full HD (1920 x 1080). Provided you have 4K UHD content source you will enjoy a superb picture with stunning color and motion control.

• 4K Dynamic Upscaling

The UN65F9000 series 4K TVs are equipped with a dynamic 4K upscaling engine that automatically detects the source picture resolution and then seamlessly enhances it to native 4K resolution. So whatever the media source you still enjoy 4K picture resolution.

• Precision Black (Local Dimming)

At the advent of LED (LCD) TVs, consumers were made to think that LED (LCD) TVs used LED technology for the display screen. Something which is wrong, but was used as a marketing tactic! The LCD part indicated previously in brackets was deliberately omitted to "woow" the consumer. Anyhow, gone are the days; but in truth there are two parts to a TV display. There is the backlight part, which uses a matrix of LEDs or Cold Cathode Fluorescent Lamps (CCFL) in older models, and  the display screen composed of millions of Liquid Crystal Cells arranged intelligently together.
So, the Precision Black or popularly known as Local Dimming technology intelligently controls the brightness of these LEDs to achieve greater contrast with black areas by dimming LEDs behind dark areas of the picture, thus making "blacks" darker without affecting "brighter" elements of the picture.This feature is available on the UN65F9000 as the Ultra Clear Panel.

• Micro Dimming Ultimate 

The Micro Dimming Ultimate technology featured on the F9000 4K TVs is analogous to the Dynamic Contrast ratio feature on LCD TVs. With  this feature you get a picture quality that is as true-to-life as possible by heavily contrasting between light and dark zones of a picture.

Micro Dimming lends its functionality to internal software and the Quad Core processor which runs decision  algorithms basing on the information collected from picture sources like SAT TV to dynamically adjust the light and dark pixels of a picture by adjusting the cells in the Liquid Crystal Display (LCD).
With Micro Dimming Ultimate, the LCD screen is divided into approximately 600 zones and each zone spanning the display picture is scanned and brightness of the LCD cells adjusted to deliver deeper dark tones and brighter "whites".

Smart TV 2.0

The TV production industry is barely keeping up with innovations in TV hardware manufacturing. As a direct consequence, consumers at times buy expensively state of the TV sets whose functionality might never get exhausted because there aren't many titles or media sources for use with particular features. A good example is a 3D feature that has become on most TV sets.  In spite of 3D innovation, majority of titles are still produced in 2D. Manufacturers have solved this problem by releasing newer models with a 2D to 3D conversion feature.
In similar fashion, the Smart TV 2.0 technology adopted on the UN65F9000, is an innovation aimed at solving a problem of lack of 4K media content, which would  otherwise make it seem useless to purchase a 4K UHD TV. With Samsung Smart TV 2.0, you are sure to stay connected to the internet and browse with ease, access 4K HD media content from online TV stores like Netflix.
Smart TV 2.0 adds convenience and flexibility in the way you search for your favorite content through its voice and gesture activated search commands. You can speak into the mic on the Smart Touch Remote to quickly access TV recommendations and additionally use hand gestures to navigate the Smart Hub menu. It is easier to get to your favorite blockbuster movies, social posts and TV shows with Samsung's Smart TV 2.0. Smart TV 2.0 is aided in part by Samsung's Quad Core Processor, Web2.0, Smart Hub, and S Recommendation.

• Quad Core Processor

The UN65F9000 have been designed with a Quad Core Processor at its core to allow a responsive browsing experience as well as enabling faster multi-tasking. The Quad Core processor gives you the extra power to simultaneously browse the web and preview title content. Switching between content is remarkably faster than than in older models.

• Smart Hub

The Smart Hub is an intuitive organization of entertainment content. It is featured as a 5 content type control panel, namely; On TV, Movies and TV Shows, Social, Apps, and a panel for your Photos, Videos and Music.

• Full Web Browser

The UN65F9000 are enabled for full web browsing, Web 2.0. With this feature you can keep up with your friends on social sites like Facebook and Twitter and have access to news, weather, entertainment, blogs and so much more.

• S Recommendation

S Recommendation allows you to find what you want without browsing through all the channels. Simply speak into mic on your Smart Touch Remote Control and your TV will respond by selecting your customized content preferences. You can even ask the TV for recommendations while watching a TV show; take for instance "which football games are showing?" Or visit the full S Recommendation hub to find new things to watch.

Smart Interaction 2.0

This feature is supported by Samsung's Smart Touch Remote Control and an built-in pop-up Camera, which permit unparalleled operation and control of your TV. 

• Smart Touch Remote Control

The Smart Touch Remote Control is designed with a touch pad and a built-in microphone to capture hand gestures and voice commands respectively. Speaking into the microphone along with hand gestures allows to navigate to your preferred TV content easily through Samsung's S Recommendation and Smart Hub features.

• Built-in Pop-up Camera

Video call conferencing is made easier with the built-in pop-up camera. Use it for your video calling apps like Skype. The camera is hidden within the top of the bezel and pops out when slight pressure is applied.

Smart Connectivity

Samsung's Smart Connectivity provided for on the UN65F9000, spans an AllShare Play app and the MHL interface features.

• AllShare Play

Samsung's AllShare Play app, allows you to play and share content with your family across your DLNA-connected Samsung devices, without the need for a network, cables or a connecting device.

• Samsung Smart View

With Samsung Smart View you able to mirror or clone or even do a dual view with your UN65F9000. You can stream for instance a movie playing on your TV straight to your smartphone.

• MHL

The UN65F9000 supports MHL interface, a mobile audio/video interface standard for connecting and charging portable, mobiles, tablets, smartphones and other consumer electronic devices to high-definition displays (HDTVs) and AV receivers.

• Built-in Wi-Fi

With Wi-Fi built right into the UN65F9000 TV, no additional equipment is required to connect to an existing home network wireless router. Instantly stream movies and TV shows, update your Facebook page, browsing the web, use Samsung Apps right on the screen and access a whole host of other Smart TV features.

4K Standard Future Proof

The UN65F9000 is supplied with a 'One Connect Box which allows you to update your 4K UHD Smart TV in the future. The box plugs into your 4K TV's Smart Evolution Ready feature and upgrades it to software versions and technology that will adapt to future Ultra HD standards and improve your TV performance.

Wide Color Enhancer

Plus Wide Color Enhancer Plus allows you to see the entire RGB spectrum brought to life on your screen. This provides vibrant, yet natural-looking images.

Samsung Active Full HD 3D

The Samsung 65" UN65F9000 supports 3D in Full HD or 1920 x 1080p resolution. It is equipped with a  3D converter that analyses 2D signals and spatially separates them to produce a 3D signal complete with 3D Sound.
All Samsung F9000's are supplied with four pairs of SSG-5100GB active 3D glasses. These 3D glasses are designed to provide all day comfort. The SSG-5100GB 3D glasses are supplied with a single 3V CR2032  battery each, which lasts up to 150 hours of 3D viewing.

Inputs and Outputs

4 x HDMI input connections

3 x 4K capable USB connections

1 x Composite (AV) in

2 x Component in (1 shared with Composite)

1 x PC/DVI audio in mini jack

1 x IR Out

1 x RS232C

1 x Optical Digital Audio Out

1 x Audio Out mini jack

1 x Ethernet Port

1 x RF in (Terrestrial or Cable in)

Audio features

• Speaker system

Speaker system features two down-firing, full-range 20W speakers and two 15W subwoofers  for a total of  70W RMS music power.

• SRS DNSe+

DNSe+ Digital Natural Sound Engine is a sound enhancement system that combines different equalizer settings and signal processing to create user centric presets to suit the most common listening scenarios. DNSe+ optimizes the sound of compact Ultra Slim designed flat panel TVs.

• Dolby Digital

Dolby Digital Plus / Pulse Dolby Digital Plus / Pulse optimizes the TV sound quality when viewing and listening to Internet movies, Internet music and other content played back from wired or wireless mobile phones, PCs and tablet devices.

• DTS Support

DTS 2.0 + Digital Out DTS 2.0 advanced audio processing decodes the DTS stream, then mixes down and outputs 2-channel audio, played back via stereo speakers. Digital Out means the device can also output the DTS bitstream via digital outputs (S/PDIF or HDMI) to a receiver to decode DTS audio. DTS Premium Sound 5.1 DTS Premium Sound 5.1 delivers immersive 5.1 surround sound from any DTS-encoded content and converts any two-channel audio content into a 5.1 DTS surround sound track for discrete surround sound playback.

TV Tuner 

• This model features a built-in DTV tuner that enables it to utilize Digital Television technology (ATSC/Clear QAM) 

Frame Refresh Rate and CMR

• 120Hz or 1200 Clear Motion Rate (CMR)

Power requirements

• Power input: 110-120V AC, 60Hz
• Maximum Power consumption: 265W
• Average Power Consumption: 157W
• Standby Power Consumption: 0.5W 

Other Features

• Eco Sensor 

This TV's Eco Sensor measures the intensity of the light in the room and automatically adjusts the brightness of the image on the TV, for more intelligent energy management. 

• ConnectShare

The USB port on the UN65F9000 TV, supports HID input connections like flash drives. ConnectShare Movie lets you watch videos, play music or view photos from a USB connection without a PC or special equipment. Simply plug your USB memory 'stick' directly into the TV's USB port and enjoy the action on screen with your friends and family. Supported file formats include; AVI, ASF, MP3, JPEG and MPEG4.

• Anynet+ (HDMI-CEC)

The UN65F9000 supports HDMI-CEC natively known as Anynet+ on this model. Anynet+ is an AV network system that allows you to control Samsung HDMI-CEC enabled connected AV devices using a single remote. Because Anynet+ converges control of all your connected AV devices, it gives you the utmost convenience and flexibility.

• BD Wise 

BD Wise technology analyses Blu-ray titles and selects the best resolution setting possible for viewing Blu-ray Discs.

• Ultra Slim Bezel Design 

The UN65F9000 is housed in a sleek slim and thin bezel chassis. You virtually watch an almost edgeless picture, which creates a more immersive experience. Plus, it allows you to hang your TV like a work of art on your wall, or use the TV's distinctively designed stand for a modern, free-standing look.

• RVU (R-View)

RVU is an application layer protocol that combines pre-existing DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) protocols with a new Remote User Interface (RUI) protocol that works in a similar fashion as RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol) on a Windows PC. The goal of RVU RUI protocol is to allow an RVU-enabled client, such as a TV, to receive a pixel-accurate display of the user interface available on an RVU server. Samsung's RVU feature was developed to distribute multichannel broadcast  video content from DirecTV through a residential gateway to other TV sets in the home without the need of other set top boxes for each of the television sets. Currently, this feature is only supported on US models for DirecTV.

• Screen size: 64.5 inches (diagonal) 
• Digital Noise Filter
• Auto Power off if no input signal is detected for some time
• NLU (National Language Understanding)
• Face Detection
• Motion Control
• Auto Volume Leveler
• Sound Customizer
• Smartphone Remote
• Picture-In-Picture
• Camera app
• Sound Share
• One Connect
• Closed Captioning
• Clock on/off timer
• Apps Platform
• InstaPort S (HDMI Quick Switch) 
• Game Mode for video games

Buying guide

• Ultra High Definition Displays and TVs are great in the showroom simply because they run media content that has been tailored for marketing; giving stunning images with superb image quality. But these TVs without High Definition Content, you can never enjoy them. Even the Upscaling engine incorporated in the models never lives up to its promise because all it does is to enlarge the picture while maintaining its quality.
• You need a dedicated internet connection for this TV. If you do not have a dedicated internet connection to online TV HD TV content, this TV is as good as useless since there are very few 4K titles on market today.
• When buying take note of the power requirements. Some countries use 220-240V AC, 60Hz instead of 110-120V AC, 60Hz. Choose the right model for your market to avoid having to purchase a voltage changer transformer.  

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CHI Touch Hair Dryer

The CHI Touch Dryer is is a powerful lightweight hair dryer designed to dry your hair in a much shorter time than standard blow dryers.  This high tech hair dryer features a 3-inch color LCD touch screen for programming it. Using the touch screen, you can set the speed, temperature or specify your hair type for a customized blowout. The CHI Touch hair dryer is the real deal for a hair treat because it combines efficiency and convenience.

Features of the CHI Touch Hair Dryer

• Powerful yet quietest DC motor

An 1875 Watts DC motor powers the CHI Touch blow dryer. This blow dryer features CHI's most powerful dryer model today, and dries hair in 50% less time than other dryers. In spite of housing such a powerful DC motor, the CHI Touch remains significantly quiet even at maximum operational speed. This makes the CHI Touch hair dryer the quietest blow-dryer on market.

• Sleek and light

The CHI Touch Hair dryer features an ergonomic design and weighs 40% less than other dryers. It has a soft touch rubber finish which ensures maximum comfort and non slip grip during operational use.

• CHI InfraTECH Ceramic Heater Technology

The CHI Touch dryer is fitted with CHI InfraTECH Ceramic plates which distribute heat evenly across the entire surface, retain heat more efficiently, and eliminate damaging hot spots. The ceramic heater emits a natural source of negative ions and far infrared heat that helps your hair preserve more moisture within the hair shaft, eliminate frizz and close the cuticle to create smooth and shiny hair. Because the heating is tightly controlled, there is less damage caused to the hair cuticle during styling.

• Negative Ion Technology

Negative ion technology adopted in the CHI Touch dryer helps in stemming the growth of bacteria, fungi, etc., resulting in healthier hair and scalp. In addition, negative ion energy is sufficient to break up clusters of water molecules. The resulting smaller water molecules then penetrate into the hair shaft by slipping in between cuticles, hence adding volume to hair. The bombardment of negative ions also closes the hair cuticle, which is fundamental for healthier and good looking hair.

• Unique Memory Settings

The CHI Touch dryer has on board memory for storing user settings. You can customize it basing on your hair type and these settings are stored for the next use.

• Touch screen features

  The CHI Dryer touch screen has four screens that give you several options for various hair types. On the Home Screen you are able to select Temperature, Speed and  Ions sub-screens. On the the Temperature sub screen you are able to set temperature for a desired drying effect. While on the Speed sub screen is a three touch power setting for superior drying control. And finally, the Ions Screen you can select ions suitable for your hair type.

Buying guide

If you want a hair dryer designed with the user in mind, the CHI Touch is certainly one. It is simple and comfortable to use featuring the latest trends in technology converged to give the best results. For more more details you can visit Ulta.com 

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Sony NWZ-A17 Hi-Res Audio Walkman

Sony's NWZ-A17 Hi-Res Walkman to be unveiled sometime in November, will be the smallest and lightest Hi-Res digital Audio musical player commercially available today; weighing only 66g and about less than the size of your palm in length. Sony NWZ-A17 features high fidelity audio sound performance in a pocket-sized music player. And if complemented by the new MDR-1A Hi-Res headphones, the NWZ-A17 Hi-Res Walkman presents an unrivaled listening experience. The NWZ-A17 is truly a piece of art housed in a sleek compact brushed aluminum chassis. It comes with 64GB of on board expandable memory and with microSD support.

Attractive features of the NWZ-A17 Hi-Res Walkman

• multi codec audio file format support

Sony's Walkman NWZ-A17 supports a myriad of digital music file formats including MP3, WMA, AAC, FLAC, AIFF, WAV and ALAC up to 192kHz/24 bits. This implies you are certain to enjoy independent music labels in virtually every music genre.

• The S-Master HX digital amplifier and DSEE HX technology

The NWZ-A17 music player features an S-Master HX digital Amp specifically designed to reduce distortion and noise and render a wide frequency response for a superb acoustic experience during Hi-Res Audio playback. On the other hand, the DSEE HX technology is upscales the resolution of compressed digital files namely; MP3, AAC, and WMA beyond CD resolution quality to mimic a recording studio environment.

• Built for High fidelity sound

The Sony NWZ-A17 Walkman is inherently a quality centered product. It is built to limit circuit noise and distortion as much as possible. The NWZ-A17 features a rigid aluminum chassis to minimize electronic noise and stabilize sound reproduction. Additionally, the internal PCB component interconnections made from high-purity lead-free solder, allow reproduction of finely detailed audio with well balanced low, mid and high frequency ranges. The power supply lines have also been redesigned to limit impedance and distortion for deep bass reproduction.
 Finally, a high performance POSCAP capacitor from SANYO Electric Co., Ltd. has been used as the charge pump for the S-Master HX digital amplifier to minimize noise and distortion even further.

• Large Library Memory Capacity

The NWZ-A17 Walkman has 64GB of internal memory more than enough for an average user. With a further support for microSD and microSDXC memory cards, a maximum capacity of 192GB is achievable.

• Sony NWZ-A17 has Bluetooth and NFC capability

With inbuilt support for SBC and aptX codecs, you can enjoy high quality audio streaming over Bluetooth connections. And for NFC enabled devices, Bluetooth pairing and streaming is only a touch away on the NFC area of the NWZ-A17 Walkman with your NFC enabled smartphone.

• MDR-1A Hi-Res Headphones

Sony's MDR-1A Hi-Res headphones are designed with a 40mm HD speaker units with an incredibly wide frequency response, namely from 20Hz to 100kHz. Aside from being light, the drivers are made from an aluminum coated liquid crystal polymer film diaphragms to provide rigidity and accurate percussion for wide, balanced sound reproduction for every genre. To further refine user experience, the headphones use silver coated Oxygen Free Copper (OFC) wires with separated ground cable structure to limit crosstalk between the left and right channels. Silver coated OFC has lower electrical resistance than standard copper wire. This minimizes transmission loss.

Full Tech Specs of the NWZ-A17 Hi-Res Walkman

• Audio Modes : ClearAudio+/DSEE HX/5-band EQ/VPT/Dynamic Normalizer/DPC
• Channel Station Presets : Up to 30
• Audio Power Output : 10 + 10 mW
• Tuner : FM Tuner Tuner Frequency Range : 87.5 - 108.0 MHz
• Frequency Response : 20 to 40,000 Hz (when playing data file, single signal measurement) Audio 

 

Audio File Formats Supported by the NWZ-A17 Hi-Res Walkman

• MP3: 32-320 kbps including Variable Bit Rate (VBR) at 32, 44.1, and 48 kHz.
• WMA: 32-192 kbps including VBR at 44.1 kHz
• FLAC: at 8, 11.025, 12, 16, 22.05, 24, 32, 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, and 192 kHz
• LPCM: at 8, 11.025, 12, 16, 22.05, 24, 32, 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, and 192 kHz
• AAC: 16-320 kbps including VBR at 11.025, 12, 16, 22.05, 24, 32, 44.1, and 48 kHz
• HE-AAC: 32-144 kbps at 11.025, 12, 16, 22.05, 24, 32, 44.1, and 48 kHz
• ALAC: 16-24 bit at 8, 11.025, 12, 16, 22.05, 24, 32, 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, and 192 kHz
• AIFF: 16-24 bit at 8, 11.025, 12, 16, 22.05, 24, 32, 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, and 192 kHz Audio

 

NWZ-A17 function features:

• Play Mode : Normal / Repeat / Shuffle / Shuffle & Repeat / Repeat 1 Song / SensMe channels Bluetooth Feature & Device
• Bluetooth Audio Codec : SBC, aptX codecs 

 

Display Technology 

• TFT display with white-LED backlight
• Screen Size : 2.2 inch (5.6 cm) QVGA TFT (320x240 pixels) 262,144 colors 
• General Backlit Color : White

 

PC Requirements

• System Requirements : IBM PC/AT compatible computer preinstalled with 32-bit Windows XP (Service Pack 3 or later), Windows Vista (Service Pack 2 or later), Windows 7 (Service Pack 1 or later), Windows 8, Mac OS X v10.6 or later.
• CPU: 1 GHz processor (2.6 GHz recommended for video playback)
• RAM: 1 GB or more (2 GB RAM required for Windows 8 64-bit)
• 600MB HDD/SSD
• Internet Explorer 7 or later
• Internet connection for Gracenote^® MusicID^® services, podcast features, Online music store access, or online help.

 

Inputs and Outputs

• WM-Port (22 pin)  for Digital Audio Input
• High-speed USB 2.0 compliant 
• Headphone Output : Stereo mini-jack Memory 

 

User Memory Capacity

• microSD support up to 2 GB
• microSDHC support up to 32 GB
• microSDXC support up to 128 GB
• 64GB Internal memory size

 

Power requirements

• Built-in Rechargeable Li-ion Battery
• Estimated Battery Life : 
• mp3 @ 128 kbps = 50 hrs. (Bluetooth (BT) OFF), 23 hrs. (BT ON); LPCM @ 1411 kbps = 51 hrs. (BT OFF), 23 hrs. (BT ON); FLAC @ 96 kHz/24 bit = 40 hrs. (BT OFF), 16 hrs. (BT ON); FLAC @ 192 kHz/24 bit = 30 hrs. (BT OFF), 11 Hrs. (BT ON); MPEG-4 @ 384 kbps = 14 hrs. (BT OFF), 10 hrs. (BT ON). 
• Radio = Approx. 22 hrs. 
• Battery Charging (Approx) : USB-based: 4 hrs for full charge
• Battery Capacity : 960 mA/h 
• Output Power : 10 + 10 mW 

 

Video features and supported File Formats

• AVCHD: 10 Mbps bitrate, 30 fps frame rate, 720 x 480 max
• MPEG4: 6 Mbps bitrate, 30 fps frame rate, 720 x 480 max
• WMV9: 6 Mbps bitrate, 30 fps frame rate, 720 x 480 max
• JPEG Playback : JPG: Max image size 4,096 x 4,096 pixels 

 

Approximate Dimensions

• 44.4 x 109.1 x 9.1 mm
• Weight (Approx.) : 66 gms

 

Wireless Connectivity

• Frequency Band : Bluetooth spec 2.1 + EDR 2.4 GHz band (2.4000 GHz-2.4835 GHz)
• Modulation Method : FHSS Maximum Range : Line of sight approx.30 ft (10 m)

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Monster DNA Pro Wireless Head Phones

Monster's DNA Pro Wireless headphones makes use of the proven acoustic features of its predecessor, DNA Pro over-ear headphones. This DNA Pro Wireless model revolutionizes your aural experience while listening to music from smartphones, media players and other Bluetooth enabled devices. Support for low energy advanced Bluetooth feature makes it possible to stream music wirelessly to the DNA Pro Wireless headphone for several hours, enjoying a crisp and CD-like quality sound.

Attractive features of the DNA Pro Wireless Headphones

• Support for Low Energy Bluetooth 4.0 (BT 4.0 LE)

Bluetooth Smart or Bluetooth 4.0 LE is an extension of classic Bluetooth technology that enables communicating devices conserve battery power. Typically, the average power consumption for BT 4.0 LE enabled devices is about 10mW while for Classic Bluetooth enabled devices is about 1W. Clearly, with a DNA Pro Wireless headphone equipped with this technology you should expect more hours of music streaming.

• Embedded AAC for iOS devices

Monster's DNA Pro Wireless supports Advanced Audio Coding (AAC) codec which is the default lossy digital audio compression technique adopted for iPhone and all iOS based devices. AAC is a coding standard that achieves better sound quality than MP3 for the same bit rate and was designed to replace MP3 coding standard.  Because Monster's DNA Pro Wireless supports AAC, you are certain to enjoy a quality sound output.

• aptX codec technology

AAC codec is for iOS devices while for aptX codec is for Android devices. aptX is a near-lossless wireless codec developed for Android devices. The aptX codec is currently applied in the music industry, public broadcasters, film studios smartphones, etc because it can deliver CD-like quality audio over Bluetooth. Bluetooth has a limited bandwidth so it is not always possible to deliver high bit rate high quality audio. But thanks to aptX codec, the bit rates are significantly reduced while preserving audio quality and minimizing latency inherent in its low audio coding delay.
Additionally, because a Bluetooth connection is limited by a maximum bandwidth, aptX codec reduces the size of audio files and sequences them over the Bluetooth connection without affecting the sound quality.

• Deep bass and Crisp sound

Just like all Monster's DNA headphones, the DNA Pro Wireless model offers you the much coveted bass with crisp detail. DNA Pro Wireless headphones are tuned for a live music experience.

• Active noise cancellation

The DNA Pro Wireless features an Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) mechanism to enhance user experience. With the ANC, interfering noise signal is picked, analyzed and its signal characteristics such as amplitude and phase measured. A replica of the noise signal is then generated and transmitted in antiphase to the noise signal thereby interfering with the noise signal and countering its effects.

• Touch interface 

No more pressing buttons to control your music playlist and volume. The DNA Pro Wireless introduces a touch interface for this function to enhance user experience.

• Power saving mode

The DNA Pro Wireless headphones automatically power off when either they are folded and when there is no input for a prolonged period, thus saving you precious playback time on battery.

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Sony HT-ST5 HD Soundbar with Wireless Subwoofer

Soundbars are designed to add convenience and flexibility while avoiding the clutter introduced by bigger sound systems. Sony's HT-ST5 HD Soundbar is a premium Soundbar system offering almost what bigger home theater systems do offer but at a fraction of their cost. The HT-ST5 features a 7.1 channel surround sound from 7 discrete digital amplifier channels and 9 speakers. The S-Force front surround sound feature on the HT-ST5, provides impressive sound stage performance by creating a natural and realistic three dimensional sound without the need of a clutter of multiple bigger speakers. The Subwoofer on the HT-ST5 provides an active wireless standalone driver ready to rattle your room with those 'much coveted' low frequency sound notes.

Attractive features on the HT-ST5 HD Soundbar

• High definition Sound Bar with wireless subwoofer

The HT-ST5 Soundbar features a High Definition capability with a number of HDMI connections that support 3D and 4K pass through.  This makes the HT-ST5 the perfect surround soundbar for any media source.

• 380W of 7.1 channel surround sound

The digital amplifiers embedded in the HT-ST5, deliver a maximum of 380W RMS of music power for a 7.1 channel surround sound environment. Each of the 7 soundbar speakers delivers a maximum of 40W while the active wireless subwoofer delivers a maximum of 100W.

• Bluetooth and NFC music streaming

Music streaming from Android and iOS devices Bluetooth enabled devices is made simple on the HT-ST5. It is made even easier for NFC enabled smartphones by merely a simple touch of your smartphone on the  NFC area of the HT-ST5. With the HT-ST5, you can control and stream effortlessly from your smartphone or tablet using the Songpal app freely available for iOS and Android.

• S-Force technology 

The S-Force feature creates a sense of natural and realistic surround sound in a 7.1 channel sound stage environment. This nullifies the necessity of bulky and multiple speakers as is the case on bigger home theater systems and AV receivers.

• Multiple Connectivity options

The HT-ST5 provides a wide array of connectivity options which include 2 digital optical connections, 3 HDMI connections and an analog audio connection.

Full tech specs and features of the HT-ST5

Soundbar Amp Decoding Formats

• Dolby Digital
• DTS
• DTS 96kHz/24 bit
• 96kHz/24bit LPCM 
• Dolby Dual Mono
• DTS HD/DolbyTruHD
• Dolby Digital+
• LPCM (2CH/5.1CH/7.1CH) thru HDMI

 

Soundbar Amp General Features

• 7.1 channel digital amplifier
• RM-ANU164 Remote Commander  
• Auto Standby
• Hotel Mode
• Movie, Music and Link with lock Sound fields
• S-Force PRO Front Surround 3D
• Portable Audio Enhancer : HEQ / Sound Optimizer / IR repeater
• Speaker Level Control : Voice: +3; SW: Vol +13 / SW Tone : +3

 

Soundbar Inputs and Outputs

• Bluetooth Reception and NFC enabled
• 1 Coaxial  in
• 3 in / 1 out HDMI 
• 2 in / 1 TV out Optical
• Optical CEC (2 in), TV OUT with ARC
• 1 in Analog Audio with TV CEC

 

Soundbar Amp Output characteristics

• 380W Power measured at 4 ohms, 1kHz 10% THD

 

Amplifier/Receiver Video Features

• HDMI Video Output Capability 
• HDMI Pass Through
• BRAVIA Sync (CEC Control)
• 1080p, 1080/24p
• Deep Color 
• 3D and 4K Signal Pass Through
• AV sync with 0-200 msec 5 step A/V Sync Time
• Audio Return Channel

 

Amplifier Audio

• Audio Power Output : Total: 380W (40W x 7 + 100W) 
• Speaker Type : 2-Way 

 

Speaker General characteristics

• 8 ohm 60 mm cone type center speaker driver 
• Acoustic Suspension Enclosed center speaker 
• Full range center speaker system
• 8 ohm front speaker Impedance
• Enclosed front speakers
• 20 mm Balanced Drive Tweeter unit
• 2-Way, Full-Range  front speaker system
• 60 mm cone type Woofer unit
• Punched metal type front speaker

 

Power Requirements

• Bar Speaker and Subwoofer power requirement: 120 V AC, 60 Hz 
• Power Consumption (in Standby) : Bar Speaker: <0.5 W,  Subwoofer: <0.5 W
• Power Consumption (in Operation) : Bar Speaker: 55 W Subwoofer: 30 W 

 

Subwoofer General

• Active  Subwoofer unit
• Wooden Cabinet Material
• Enclosed Type
• Wireless Subwoofer 
• 180 mm cone type  driver

 

Weights and Measurements

• Dimensions (Approx.) : Main Unit: 1,030 × 120 × 120 mm with feet; 1,030 × 101 × 116 mm without feet. Subwoofer: 242 × 355 × 407 mm.
• Weight (Approx.) : Main Unit: 6.1 kg with grille frame and with stands. Subwoofer: 11 kg.

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Sony DVP-NS758HP Disc/HDD Player

The DVP-NS758HP disc player is low cost single DVD player that features high quality video and photo playback output through its native HDMI output jack. Even lower resolution video and images are upscaled to 1080p High Definition (HD) quality. The DVP-NS758HP is very versatile, can virtually playback any disc type and consumes very little power. It is rated at only 12W. If you are looking for a very affordable DVD
player, the DVP-NS758HP certainly can favorably compete with others currently on market.

Attractive Features on the DVP-NS758HP

• Single DVD/VCD/CD

The DVP-NS758HP is built with a single DVD drive capable of Video CD, CD and DVD playback with native support for playback of MPGE4, MP3, Xvid and JPEG files. These media file types have become indispensable for us today because of the portability and versatility they add to handling and storing of media content. So this is a big plus for the DVP-NS758HP.

• 1080p Upscale

As we migrate slowly to higher resolution media content today, it has become imperative to upgrade our TVs to high end HDTVs which offer a richer and vivid picture display. And since we still have media content encoded with lower resolutions, we need a mechanism of upscaling lower resolution media content to HD resolution without distorting the images. The DVP-NS758HP is hence built with the ability to upscale lower resolution video and images to 1080p or HD resolution.

• BRAVIA Sync and PhotoTV HD

BRAVIA Sync feature on the DVP-NS758HP can particularly be helpful if you own a Sony digital TV. Although some digital TVs from other manufacturers like Philips have been found to sync with Sony products. BRAVIA sync works with the HDMI output generally known as the HMDI-CEC. With BRAVIA sync, you are able to control connected compatible devices using a single remote.
On the other hand, the PhotoTV HD feature on the DVP-NS758HP allows viewing photo playback at the highest resolution possible through its HDMI output.

• Precision Cinema Progressive

The DVP-NS758HP is equipped with Sony's Precision Cinema Progressive technology which twice the number of scanning lines as compared to the common interlaced format. This results in an accurate reproduction of scenes virtually preserving the naturalness.

• HD JPEG Playback with preset sound

If you have a recorded HD JPEG disc, the DVP-NS758HP is more than ready to play it in format it has been created. Whether it has been encoded with sound or not.

• HDMI Output

The availability of an HDMI output jack on the DVP-NS758HP simplifies the connectivity on one part while providing an HD output signal on the other.

Full Tech Specs of DVP-NS758HP

Supported discs types

The DVP-NS758HP supports playback of DVD-Video, CD, Video CD (VCD) and Super Video CD (SVCD). Playable CDs include CD-R and CD-RW. While playable DVDs include DVD+RW, DVD+R, DVD+R DL, DVD-RW, DVD-R and DVD-R DL.

Supported file types

The DVP-NS758HP supports USB and disc playback of  mp3, wma, Xvid, JPEG, aac, LPCM, MPEG-1, Simple MPEG4 and DVD/CD text.

Sony Precision disc Drive

Sony's Precision Drive uses Twin laser pickup and Dynamic Tilt Compensation technology to compensate and correct errors on warped DVD discs. This makes the DVP-NS758HP very robust enabling you to enjoy your favorite DVD discs for much longer.

Video features

• Precision Cinema Progressive
• 12bit/108MHz Video DAC
• Video Equalizer
• Custom Picture mode
• 720p/1080i/1080p Upscaling
• High Speed Search
• Instant Replay
• Instant Advance
• NTSC/PAL
• Fast/Slow Play with Audio
• NTSC Color Default setting
• 16:9 TV Type Default setting
• Step FWD/Step Backward
• Smooth Slow 

 

Audio features

• 192kHz/16bit Audio DAC
• Dolby Digital Audio
• DTS Audio
• MPEG Digital Output
• 96kHz/24bit LPCM
• DVD ±1.0dB and PCM 96kHz frequency response
• 85 DVD/CD Dynamic Range 
• 0.012% THD for DVD playback
• AV Sync
• 83 dB S/N Ratio (DVD/CD)

 

Function features

• Picture Navigation
• Control Menu
• Background graphics with screen saver
• Child lock and Tray lock
• 40 discs Custom Parental Control
• 6 Disc Multi-disc Resume
• HDMI-CEC or BRAVIA Sync
• Title and Chapter Viewer
• Auto power off
• Quick setup
• PhotoTV HD
• JPEG Slideshow BGM
• MP3 ID3 Lyrics
• Title and picture Zoom

 

Inputs and Outputs

• Composite Video Output
• Component Video Output
• Analog stereo audio output
• Coaxial Digital Output
• USB input
• HDMI Output

 

Accessories

• RMT-D197P Remote
• AV Cable
• HDMI Cable
• Instruction manual
• AA sized Batteries 

 

Buying tips

• The DVP-NS758HP is a low end DVD player. It does not support Blu-ray and neither can it drive 4K displays. 
• The Graphical User interface on the DVP-NS758HP is very dull and uninspiring something we have almost become accustomed with majority of Sony products. 
• For multi audio coded DVD titles,  enabling DTS decoding on the settings menu is not sufficient to play the DVD title with DTS sound. You have to manually select the Audio on the RMT-197P remote, otherwise it defaults to Dolby Digital decoding.

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Canon EOS 70D Digital SLR Camera

Not so long ago, Canon introduced the new EOS 70D DSLR camera on the market which revolutionized the way users capture still images and video with a DSLR camera. The EOS 70D features advanced

autofocus technology that unlocks the potential of Live View shooting thanks to Canon's Dual Pixel CMOS Auto Focus technology (CMOS AF). With this cutting-edge technology the EOS 70D is able to capture fast and accurate video in Live View shooting with smooth and precise autofocus much like that of a camcorder, complete with high image quality. The two real-world choices of Live View and viewfinder shooting on the new EOS 70D, greatly enhance the creativity of any photographer.

The EOS 70D DSLR has built-in wireless technology which along with the EOS Remote app further enhance shooting versatility, as well as enabling easy and instant sharing. The CMOS APS-C (CMOS Advanced Photo System type-C) sized sensor on the EOS 70D has been re-designed to provide a superb 20.2 Megapixel  image. Additionally, the embedded powerful DIGIC 5+ Image Processor which supports continuous shooting of up to 7.0 frames per second, allows capture of stunning video in Live View.

The EOS 70D Digital SLR introduces a host of new exciting features uncommon in traditional DSLRs to  professional and hobbyist photographers, some of which are highlighted as follows;

Attractive features on Canon's EOS 70D DSLR

• Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology

Traditional CMOS image sensors are designed with a single photo detector (photodiode) per pixel. Canon has re-engineered this sensor to introduce a second photodiode for every image pixel detected. The effect of this new development is smooth, fast and precise autofocus analogous to shooting video with a camcorder. Additionally, the Dual Pixel CMOS AF together with the flexibility provided by the variable angle LCD, ensures shooting of instant and sharp still images in varying positions.
Introduction of new technology normally comes along with concerns of compatibility with what is current.

Canon has gone a step further to make the Dual Pixel CMOS AF backward compatible with over a 100 EF (Electro Focus) and EF-S lenses on market today implying you do not have to ditch the old EF lenses you have been using on older models.

• 20.2 Megapixel CMOS APS-C sensor

CMOS APS-C image sensors are much smaller in size than a standard 35mm film which measures 36 x 24 mm and are approximately the same size as a classic APS negative sized at 25.1 by 16.7  mm and aspect ratio of 3:2. Canon has re-designed it's cropped frame CMOS APS-C sensor to accept and process signals for up to a staggering 20.2 Megapixels resulting in higher quality images reproducible for virtually any screen display and print.

• DIGIC 5+ Image Processor

DIGIC 5+ Image Processor is  the latest, fastest and most powerful Image processors in Canon's DIGIC family of image processors. DIGIC 5+ processors are built with special algorithms to combat noise at high 'film' speeds. DIGIC 5+ is able to capture video at 7.0 frames per second. This makes the EOS 70D suitable taking high quality shots during continuous shooting.

• Wide ISO Range - ISO 100 -12800

A wide ISO range implies a wide range of shooting speeds under varying lighting conditions. This is partly enabled by the high performance DIGIC 5+ Image processing chip embedded in the EOS 70D DSLR Camera and the 14 bit Analog to digital converter chip which ensures more natural gradations and smooth image tonal transitions.

• Built-in WiFi

Your options are limitless with the built-in WiFi; take snaps and share them effortlessly to your social network through the Canon Image Gateway. Additionally, quickly transfer images and video to other WiFi enabled canon cameras or Smartphones using the freely available EOS Remote app.
The EOS Remote app can also be used to control your EOS 70D Camera, and remote printing photos directly from your EOS 70D camera on WiFi enabled PictBridge certified printers.

• Variable angle 3.0 inch Touch screen LCD

The preview LCD is able to rotate about its axis in varying degrees. This presents the much needed flexibility while shooting in varying positions.

• EOS Full HD movie mode

The EOS 70D features a full HD movie capture with improved focus tracking of moving objects, manual exposure control and multiple frame rates.

• Auto mode

Scene intelligent Auto mode results in highly optimized images and an improved scene detection much needed for shooting at night.

• Advanced in-Camera features

The EOS 70D features exciting features for Live View shooting such as High Dynamic Range (HDR), HDR Back light control, Multiple exposure, Handheld night scene mode, along with traditional creative filters to enhance your creativity. 
 

• Intelligent viewfinder

This feature coupled with the variable angle LCD comparatively broaden the field of view achievable with APS-C image sensors and provide multi aspect ratio compositions for Live View shooting.

• 19-point all cross-type Auto Focus(AF) system

This is designed to provide a greater freedom and exceptional autofocus performance during photo shoots using viewfinder.

The EOS 70D is presents amazing innovation in DSLR cameras, with numerous intuitive features that cannot all be enumerated here but are exhaustively covered in the EOS 70D technical spec article.  

 

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LG Lifeband Touch Activity Tracker

As innovation in the wearables technology gains momentum, a distinction between smartwatches and fitness trackers is slowly blurring. An example is the LG Lifeband Touch Activity tracker which combines both functionality. It features an OLED touch screen smartphone media controls, incoming Call ID and SMS ID service controls. LG Lifeband Touch Activity Tracker is a device to help you keep up your fitness levels as well as effortlessly access your smartphone during workouts.

Features and Full Tech specs of LG Lifeband Touch

• 3-axis accelerometer

The three axis accelerometer forms the core function of the LG Lifeband Touch. It accurately tracks and measures horizontal, vertical and lateral body movements.

• Altimeter

The altimeter measures current height of an object with reference to a datum point normally sea level. The altimeter built into the LG Lifeband Touch Activity Tracker is used in conjunction with GPS to determine more accurately the current elevation of the "Lifeband Touch" - nominally your current elevation.

• Bright OLED Touch screen Display

LG Lifeband Touch is built with a 0.91 inch, 128 x32 resolution OLED screen display. An OLED a.k.a Organic Light Emitting Diode by construction uses a thin film of an organic semiconductor layer to emit light when subjected to the flow of an electric current. Displays built on this technology offer a very bright and rich display.

• Tracking Metrics

LG Lifeband touch is designed with features to accurately track steps taken, distance covered, Runtime of workouts, Calories expended, Pacing level, ascent or descent. It achieves this using data measured by the altimeter and the three axis accelerometer.

• Gesture recognition technology

LG Lifeband uses gesture recognition technology for controlling the display. You can activate or de-activate the OLED display by the flick of the wrist.

• Compatibility with other fitness apps

The data collected from the tracking sensors is interpreted and processed by LG's fitness app to give meaningful and useable statistical data representation. In addition, the Lifeband Touch interfaces and shares data with other fitness apps like RunKeeper, MyFitnessPal, Wahoo fitness, Zephyr and Polar.

• LG Fitness app smartphone compatibility

LG Fitness app supports data syncing with iOS and Android smartphones. Only iOS 6 or later smartphones on iPhone 4S/5/5S/5C and iPod Touch are currently supported. On Android platform only android 4.3 on LG G2, LG Nexus 5, LG G Flex and Samsung Galaxy Note2/Note3/S3/S4/Round are currently supported.

• Bluetooth 4.0

LG Lifeband is enabled with low energy Bluetooth for wireless data transfer and syncing. Call and SMS notifications are made possible via this Bluetooth connection.

• Long Battery Life

The battery installed in the LG Lifeband Touch can last up to approximately 5 days on a single charge without an active Bluetooth link and approximately 3 days when the Bluetooth link is active.

• Media Playback Controls

With the LG Lifeband Touch Activity track you needn't fiddle with your smartphone controls to listen to your favorite playlist while you workout. All you need is the revolutionary LG HRM Earphone Heart Rate Monitor and a Bluetooth enabled phone. Sync your Lifeband Activity Tracker with your smartphone and control essential music functions on your Lifeband Touch Activity Tracker screen. Answer and terminate phone calls by a simple touch on your OLED screen.

• Water Resistant

Lifeband Touch Activity tracker is splash proof and may not survive if submerged under water for extended periods.

• Vibration motor and Alerts

Inside an LG Lifeband Touch activty tracker is a tiny vibration motor which provides support for notifications on incoming calls and SMS, Wake up alarm and activity performance.

• Heart Rate Monitor Compatibility

LG Lifeband Touch is compatible with LG HRM Earphones, Polar H7/H6, Zephyr HxMTM Smart and Wahoo Blue HR heart rate monitor headphones.

• Multiple User Profiles

LG Lifeband Touch Activity tracker supports multiple user profiles. Create, customize and save your user profile for quick access of your routines.

• Weight

Lifeband Touch Activity Tracker weighs approximately 0.1lbs

Buying guide

• To get the most out of this activity tracker you need to pay close attention to the compatible smartphones. If you cannot sync your smartphone with the Lifeband Activity, then you might have a very frustrating experience.
• It is advisable to buy LG HRM Headphones along with this activity tracker if you can afford. With these you are certain to get the best out of this Lifeband tracker.
• The Lifeband Touch battery life is dependent on useage characteristics as well as battery age. It is possible that you might not achieve the specified battery life performance.

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Fitbit Flex Wireless Activity Tracker

Fitbit Flex is a slim, elegant activity and sleep tracker from Fitbit Incorporation. Fitbit is a company based in San Francisco California which specializes in health and fitness wearable innovation. Some of their products include Fitbit Flex wireless activity and sleep tracker, Fitbit Zip wireless activity tracker, Fitbit One Wireless activity tracker, Aria WiFi Smart Scale, Fitbit Force wireless activity and sleep tracker and many others.

Fitbit flex is a comfortable wearable that you can use to track steps taken, calories burned and distance covered all day long. While at night you can use it to track the quality of your sleep and at the same time wake you up in the morning by the vibrations of an embedded vibration motor. At the core of fitbit flex is fitbit's leading edge three axis Micro Electro Mechanical Sensor (MEMS) accelerometer which enables it to accurately track movements.  These movements are interpreted and processed by proprietary software installed on Flex to give meaningful statistical data.

Attractive features on the Wireless Fitbit Flex

• Wireless Stats Sync

Fitbit flex supports low energy Bluetooth 4.0 which allows you to wirelessly transfer stats data to your PC or Mac pre-installed with fitbit connect application if you are within reception range of the Bluetooth dongle inserted in the USB port of your PC. Fitbit Flex is able to sync stats data with most iOS and Android based Smartphones through Bluetooth. See your progress in real time on the fitbit dashboard all day long.

• Setting and having a go at your goal

With flex you choose which goal to track. Is it the the steps taken, calories burned? Or the distance to be covered? Challenge yourself and monitor your progress in real time. Flex is designed with five LED lights that light up to indicate your progress for the set goal. Each light represents 20% progress.

• Fitbit app

With the freely available fitbit app for iOS and Android smartphones, you have a host of tools available at your disposal. For instance, you can track, log and map out runs and workout routes using the Mobilerun feature. Food tools are my favorite. You can scan foodstuff barcodes and immediately build a nutritional profile from a database of over 350,000 foodstuffs and restaurants. So as you workout, you are able to check the calories burned against the calories consumed. This feature creates an incentive to push your workouts even further.

• Compatibility with 'traditional' apps

Fitbit is compatible with many health and fitness apps that we have got accustomed to. Apps like Run Keeper, Map My Fitness, Lose it, etc work well with fitbit. You are able to export data to these apps and apps like Lose It, also let you import their data into your fitbit dashboard, so you can access stats by either app.

Full tech specs of fitbit Flex

• Bluetooth 4.0 and NFC enabled

• Fitbit flex can aggregates minute data for the past 7 days and  daily data for the past 30 days. Regular syncing is advisable to avoid loss of valuable stats data since older stats are automatically deleted to free up memory space.

• Fitbit flex has a Lithium-polymer battery which lasts up to 5 days on a single charge. This might however change with the age of the battery.

• 3 axis MEMS sensor for tracking movements

• Vibration motor for waking you up in the morning

• Water resistant up to pressures equivalent to 1 Atmosphere or 10m of water.

• Wrist sizes: 140-176 mm and 161-209 mm, width: 13.99 mm

 

Buying tips

• Flex works well in optimum environmental conditions. It works well in pressures below 5 Atmospheres while under water, temperatures between -20° to 45° C and a maximum operating altitude of 30,000 ft.

• The fitbit connect application requires an internet connection. It is designed to work online.

• If you envisage using a PC for data sync, you will need a free USB port to insert in a Bluetooth sync dongle.

• Fitbit app is compatible with Operating systems; Windows XP/7/8, Mac OS X 10.5 or higher and browsers; Firefox, Internet explorer, Safari and Google chrome.

• The flex is neither a smartwatch nor does it include functionality of a smartwatch; it is purely a fitness wristband.

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5.1 Ch. HTL9100 Philips Fidelio Wireless Soundbar

Philips Fidelio HTL9100 Wireless surround cinema speakers is a perfect fit for small to mid sized rooms. The HTL9100 is a perfect sound solution for those that do not like 'littering' their rooms with speakers and cables. It is an intuitive design featuring a wireless subwoofer, and a soundbar with wireless detachable surround speakers.

Attractive features on Philips Fidelio

• Detachable Wireless Surround Cinema Speakers

Philips Fidelio HTL9100 Soundbar is Philips' flagship Wireless Surround Cinema Speakers complete with wireless detachable surround speakers. Fidelio's wireless feature gives you the freedom of speaker placement and arrangement whenever needed.

• Virtual Surround Sound Technology

The Virtual Surround Sound technology adopted for the Philips Fidelio HTL9100 creates a realistic movie experience by reproducing rich and immersive surround sound to mimic a five-speaker system, 5.1 channel environment. Even with stereo sources a true multi-channel surround sound is reproduced almost flawlessly by the HTL9100.

• Wireless music streaming via Bluetooth

Philips Fidelio HTL9100  is enabled for Bluetooth audio streaming with compatible devices. The technology allows for an easy wireless connection with your Bluetooth enabled smartphone, tablet or laptop, including the iPod or iPhone for music streaming.

• Surround on Demand

The wireless surround speakers of the HTL9100 can be detached from the main soundbar and placed at the rear of the room to provide a superb 5.1 channel surround sound for movie playback and gaming action. When the action is over, you simply reattach the speakers to the Soundbar for music playback and TV shows.

• Dolby Digital and Pro Logic II surround sound

The HTL9100 has an in-built Dolby Digital decoder which processes six channels of audio information to provide a surround sound experience and a natural sense of ambience and dynamic realism. Dolby Pro Logic II reproduces five channels of surround from any stereo source.

• Orientation sensor for optimum sound experience

The quality of sound experience depends on the positioning of the soundbar. The Fidelio HTL9100 is fitted with a smart auto-orientation sensor that instantly optimizes audio quality for vertical and horizontal positions of the soundbar. Irrespective of the orientation of the soundbar, you can be sure of a superb audio experience.

Full tech Specs of Philips Fidelio

Philips Fidelio HTL9100 is designed to be wall mountable or placed on a dedicated stand located within your room. Whatever you choose, Fidelio HTL9100 gives you the convenience you need.

Sound Features

• Double Bass Sound Enhancement
• Night Mode
• Treble and Bass Control
• Surround on Demand
• Dolby Digital 5.1 Support
• DTS Digital Surround Support

 

Loud Speakers

• Integrated Soundbar Speakers
• 1 x 2.5 inch full range driver per Surround Speaker
• 8 ohm Surround Speaker impedance
• 1 x 6.5 inch Subwoofer driver
• 20-150Hz Subwoofer frequency response
• 4 ohm Subwoofer impedance
• Wireless Subwoofer
• 120W RMS Surround Speaker Output power
• 90W RMS Subwoofer Output Power
• 210W RMS @ 30% THD Total Output power

 

Connectivity

• Bluetooth integrated connection
• 3.5mm Audio in iPod/iPhone port
• AUX in (Rear)
• Digital Coaxial in (Rear)
• Digital Optical in
• HDMI 1.4 output (ARC)
• 2 HDMI in; HDMI IN 1, HDMI IN 2
• 3.5mm Audio in Side connection

 

Convenience

• Philips EasyLink (HDMI-CEC)
• Audio Return Channel (ARC)
• Automatic audio input mapping
• One touch standby
• Remote Control-passthrough

 

Power requirements

• 110-240V, 50Hz
• Less than 0.5W standby power consumption

 

Dimensions and Weight

• Soundbar Main Unit: (W x H x D): 1035 x 70 x 156 mm
• Soundbar main unit weight: 4.18kgs
• Subwoofer: (W x H x D): 200 x 510 x 200 mm
• Subwoofer weight: 5kgs
• Packaging (W x H x D): 765 x 260 x 371 mm
• Weight including packaging : 16kgs

Buying guide

• This is a perfect set of speakers for a non- cluttered neat room environment. All the speakers are enabled for wireless streaming.
• To get the most of this Fidelio system, your TV and other media sources should be enabled for HDMI and digital outputs because these connections provide the highest fidelity audio sound. In addition, you can take advantage of the Philips EasyLink HDMI-CEC for more convenience. 

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