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Wednesday, 1 July 2009

Bluetooth Car Kit - bluetooth, t305

I was looking for a replacement for my bluetooth headset when I started looking at bluetooth speakerphones. After doing some research, I was looking for the following:

* No installation - I wanted to use it in multiple vehicles/locations

* Reasonable price

* Trusted brand

* Good sound quality

* Easy to use

I am happy to report that the T305 does a good (sometimes great) job of satisfying my requirements. Here's a look at how it has performed:

Setup - Upon opening the box, there are really two things to do: insert the visor clip which is easily secured and use the car charger that comes with the unit. While the instructions said that charging could take up to two hours, my unit fully charged in about 30 minutes. Once complete, simply power on the device, and it automatically enters pairing mode. I was able to find it with my LG VX-9900 (see my review) with no problems at all.

Use - Coming from a background of using headsets, I must say that I cannot imagine going back. I really like not having anything hanging on my ear (and sometimes inserted in my ear depending on the headset). This model also seems geared toward the people who use headsets because the operation is very similar. One nice thing is that the power button is separate from the multi-function button. With my 9900, I am able to initiate voice dialing from the speakerphone and with the 9900 set to auto-answer, calls are automatically transferred after 2 seconds. The volume controls on the sides are easily accessible and operate similar to most headsets. I never have to touch my phone at all so it truly is hands-free.

Call Quality - All of the above is meaningless if the calls don't sound good, right? Well, have no fear. The call quality for both parties is better than any headset that I have ever used - and I've used six different ones over last 2 years. Some of this has to do with positioning. In the Texas heat, most people have their AC on a high setting. Unfortunately, most headsets are positioned directly in line with the air flow. However with a visor clip-on of this speakerphone, this is not the case. Add to that the noise canceling technology, and the people on the other end hardly know that they are on speakerphone at all. On my end, the volume is more than adequate. It's really a simple matter of physics - the speaker is bigger here than it is on a headset.

Cons - So what's the catch? As I mentioned earlier, the device only ships with a car charger. I ordered (rather cheaply) a wall charger to compensate for this. While it was annoying, it wasn't the end of the world. Others have mentioned the flashing blue light. I have to admit that the first time I was driving in the dark, it was initially distracting. However, I got used to it rather quickly, and I don't notice it anymore. I would compare it to getting a new car that has a loud turn signal. You notice it a lot at first, but you learn to tune it out. Also, it does not have a display, but then again, neither do headsets. Finally, I use it in a similar manner to a headset. I take it with me when I get out of the car, and I power it off between uses. It's not an integrated speakerphone so it isn't tied to your car's power supply like more sophisticated (and expensive) models. None of these are deal-breakers for me.

Bottom line - If you are looking for a good alternative to bluetooth headsets, and you intended use pattern will be similar to that of a headset, then this is what you are looking for. It has great quality, and it's easy to use. Motorola T305 Bluetooth Portable Car Speaker

Pros: Good sound quality for each side of the conversation. Good battery life, easy recharging, simple to use. Basically perfect except for my cons..

Cons: Huge blinking blue light is annoying at night and invisible during the day. Sometimes it take a second for it to answer a call when you click the answer button. I guess the solution for that is probably to wait a few seconds after answering before saying "hello". This flaw also demonstrates itself when using VZ Navigator, because it cuts off the first word of driving instructions. This flaw might be from my MOTOKRZR phone and not from the T305, but I don't have any way to know which end causes it.

Another reviewer stated that the "on/off" button is too small. When I first read that, I didn't know why it matters. I now know. At least with a MOTOKRZR (and I'd assume other phones), the speaker on your phone will be inactive when it is connected via Bluetooth to your T305. With 150 feet of range, it actually stays connected if you are 150 feet from your car. Therefore you have to turn it off every time you get out of the car, or else you won't be able to hear calls you receive on your phone. It isn't a huge deal, and something you can get used to, but Motorola should have either made the on/off button more accessible or cut the Bluetooth range down to about 15 feet.

Overall the best handsfree solution for talking in the car. The light thing is my biggest annoyance. I would buy again. (I updated this post after about a month of use) - Motorola T305 - T305 - Speakerphone - Bluetooth'

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Dvd Player Case - media storage, portable dvd case

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I needed a case for my cyberhome portable dvd player and this case seemed the logical choice. The case itself consistes of four compartment: 1. Cable Storage 2. Remote Storage 3. DVD player storage 4. DVD-ROM storage. After unpacking the case and loading it up with the dvd player and accessories, it was apparent this case will not hold all the accessories that came with the player. I even tried using the DVD-ROM storage area. However, the case will not close if that pouch is too full. I think this problem would have been solved if cyberhome had added an inch or so to the width. In retrospect, I would not have purchased this case. CyberHome Standard Case for 7" LCD Screen

This item advertised that it held most 7inch screen DVD players. I bought Polaroid brand for my kids for Christmas. Unless you only want to carry the player itself and one unprotected DVD (Cases don't fit in the compartment for DVDs), forget it. The only other accessory that does fit it the remote which isn't of much use when traveling since the player isn't far from you. This case is a total waste in my opinion and I was very disenchanted. I would recommend buying a case specifically made by the company that made the DVD player that you purchased.

My whole reasoning for buying a case was so that my kids wouldn't lose all of the components and they don't fit in this one so I defeated my purpose altogether. I guess they can use them for gameboys or short travel.

This is a great carrying case for your cyberhome dvd player. It is very stylish and good quality and holds all your parts for the dvd player and even has a little extra space for some dvds. Mine came with the dvd player but this is sold seperatly here- but it is worth the money and is nice carrying case. - Portable Dvd Case - Organization - Media Storage - Dvd Player Case'

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Bluetooth Stereo Headphones - bluetooth sports headset, bluetooth stereo headphones

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This will work with any bluetooth device that has a mini plug headphone output. The other unit they make will only work with the iPad and iPod Touch models. I did notice a very dramatic sound improvement. I use it with all of my iPods, my iPad, and my iMac through the headphone output on my Bose desk speaker system. There can be skipping when it is in a pocket on your person. This is because the body can block the signal at times. I discovered that if I just let the BAU unit dangle outside my pocket, the skipping will disappear. I purchased mine through Amazon from J&R Music for 20 per cent less than is mentioned above in the product description. JayBird uSport Universal Bluetooth Adapter

This is basically all I could ask for in a "universal" bluetooth adapter - small and flat, light, long battery life, good transmit range, reasonably intuitive controls and support for apt-x. There's just one thing to be cautious of: if you use it while the USB power adapter is plugged in you may get some nasty-sounding noise and static over your music (it's obvious if you pause and just crank up the volume). I got this static when plugging the USB end into any of my computer's USB ports but it went away when I used one of those universal AC/DC adapters with interchangeable connectors (one of them a female USB) plugged into the wall. I guess some power sources are "dirty" and the electrical noise leaks into the transmission.

this product turned out to be so sweet. the first one they sent didn't work, sent it back, they got a new shipment, it works really sweet. sound quality in nice and the connectivity is very strong. i would really recommend this product. - Bluetooth Transmitter - Bluetooth Stereo Headphones - Bluetooth Sports Headset - Bluetooth Adapter'

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Dvd Player Case - media storage, portable dvd case

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Hand Weights - weight training, dumbbells

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I got these because I got the Jillian Michales 30 day shred and I knew I wouldn't be able to use my 5lb weights. These are great, and the texture is great because it doesn't slip around in your hands. Great little weights. Valeo HW2 2-Pound Neoprene Hand Weights

This pair of soft pink weights can go to the office or bedroom. It's a pretty pink color and stays clean. It's the perfect size that be carried from place to place. It may fit in bags and med sized purses.

I am a reluctant exerciser. I sit at the computer all day and when I get up...ouch my aching back. My doctor said get some small weights and use them or else! If you rest you rust.I bought these little cuties and now I spend 15 minutes at a time at least twice a day and feel stronger already. I am buying another pair for my 94 year old sister who wants to share the benefits.

These are very good handweights to add to your workout routines. The Neoprene cover is very comfortable to hold onto and prevents slipping when using these. If you just are starting to work out (or starting after a layoff) make sure to get these 2 lbs to begin with. There is more than enough weight to start developing without hurting yourself and the price for the various sets are very reasonable so having a couple of sets a bit later is not a bad idea.

These weights have a nice feel to them (more comfortable than vinyl, for the same price), but like the above reviewer said, they only work if you use them. 5-lb weights are very suitable for beginners to purchase. It may be heavy at first, but as you get stronger, 3-lbs will get too light. 5-lbs will also get the toning done, without bulking you up.

I purchased these weights to do exercises recommended by physical therapy for a frozen shoulder. I purchased these Valeo weights due to the excellent reviews by others - and was not disappointed. They are very comfortable to hold due to the non-slick texture of the neoprene. These weights are very similar to those that I used at physical therapy. Amazon's price was very competitive and the weights were delivered quickly. Highly recommended. - Home Workout - Dumbbells - Exercise - Weight Training'

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Liquid Pencil

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Whenever I am in a "Staples", I always crave a weird writing instrument. My husband and I oohed and ahhed over this product for twenty seconds, then I promptly forgot about it, only to later discover that he had indeed purchased it. It does not write entirely smoothly, and lotsa times the liquid lead just craps out. Comfy in hand, and erasers work great (I am guessing here that the fact that replacement erasers are included is because this "pencil" will have a lifespan as long as a regular household ballpoint pen), but I cannot endorse it because it will not allow me to endorse anything. Sharpie Liquid Pencil Mechanical Pencils, 2 Mechanical Pencils with Fashion Colored Barrels (1801865)

I bought two of these liquid pencils thinking that they world be great, but when I started to use them, I was not happy. The ink does not come out of the pen well at all and if you finally do get enough ink to write three words, you'll have to stop using it and let the ink come back to the tip again. The eraser works well, but as the liquid doesn't, I usually end up using a pencil. If you do want the whole liquid thing though, get an erasable pen. It will work better. Not a good buy.'

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Exercise - resistance bands, excercise equipment

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I wanted to write this review to help others know more about this product because when I was looking around I was kind of in the dark. I ordered 3: the purple extra heavy, blue heavy, and red medium. I've worked out a lot off and on in the past with actual weights, and I'm always moving around, so this was just what I was looking for. Of course, how tall you are will make a difference, as taller people will have more tension in the bands when they are being stretched (if you're standing, of course, which is a lot of exercises). I'm 5'10", and unfortuantely my purpose in working out is to build muscle, as I'm kind of on the skinny side. The purple band isn't for "extremely fit" people, but it does offer a good amount of resistance. Here's a general guideline of what I found, based on my previous experience with weights:

If I double the purple band (grab both handles at once) and do one arm rows on a chair, depending on where you step on it, you can get a good 40-50 lbs resistance.

If you have one foot on the blue heavy band standing up, and doing curls, it's about 15-20 lbs each hand.

If you step on the red medium tube about 6-8 inches from the handle and do one arm extensions over your head, it's about 15 lbs

Again, these bands are very variable. You can increase the amount of tension by stepping closer to the handles, and by holding two bands at once, holding both handles at once, etc.

I would even recommend the green I think or the smaller ones for exercises such as lateral raises and for the rotator cuff, as stepping with one foot on the red tube while standing up, and raising both shoulders outwards provides a good 10-15 lbs.

Chest exercises are kind of awkward with this, my door frame is super weak so I don't use the door attachment but I tried what was in the instruction manual and am sticking to pushups.

Also it is great for developing stability, it's a lot harder to keep a stable motion with a cord than with an actual weight.

All in all, I would highly, highly recommend this, but if you're already benching 150+, this is probably just going to keep you toned, but you could probably build the smaller muscles. Also depends on how many handles you can grab at once or how good your grip is if you grab the actual cord. SPRI ES503R Xertube Resistance Band with Door Attachment and Exercise Charts (Purple, Very Heavy)

This band is perfect for those of you who do some recreational resistance or weight training and also travel regularly. If you do a significant amount of muscle training at high weight or resistance, this will not offer much challenge to you. You should be aware before buying this, it is NOT a replacement for going to the gym. I wish it offered more resistance, but it doesn't. You're not going to open the package and find a magical rubber band that somehow gives you 200 pounds of resistance without you tearing your door off it's hinges. No, I'm afraid that fantasy product doesn't exist. This is a fine item for keeping you active if you get bored while watching TV. If you need something to use in a hotel room this is ideal for it's small luggage footprint as well as it's ease of use.

There are a large assortment of exercises that can be done with this band with or without using a door. You can curl it by standing on it and pulling upward, shrug it, do lunges with it, do rows with it (door needed for that one) and simulate pull ups (also needing a door for this one) to a reasonable degree. You can also adjust your own resistance on some exercises that require you to stand on the band by widening your stance. It's a very logical and simple product to use.

I don't recommend the purple band to those new to resistance training. There are other colors representing other weight simulations that you should probably consider, although the pricing is so cheap you can probably get a couple and work your way through them if you really wanted to do that.

A WARNING: Read the directions before you use this. For example, you may be tempted to close the strap for door use into the top part of the door, this is incorrect and could damage your door. You close the strap into the door near a hinge (definitely not near the knob). While this band does not offer much resistance, I strongly suggest wearing shoes when using your feet to provide tension as having it snap back into your face would probably not be a pleasant experience.

To revisit: It's not a gym replacement so don't pretend it is and then be disappointed when you buy it, that's just illogical. It's highly portable. It's highly diverse. It offers decent resistance for recreational or travel use when unable to use a gym or home exercise equipment. It could snap back dangerously if used in ways contrary to those spelled out plainly in the instructions.

This is a good medium band at best, but not even close to being a heavy band. I'm a man, and I use it for several tricep kick back reps. For the average woman, this is a heavy band. My wife uses it for most of her 10 minute trainer exercises, but I only use it for a couple. I found a much heavier black band on amazon, that I highly recommend. To give you an idea about this band; with the biggest loop doing bicep curls, this band equates to MAYBE 20 lbs dumbells. With that other much heavier black band I found; with the same size loop I can barely do 8 reps. I'm guessing its more like 35 lbs and that is a huge difference.

I bought this product around a month ago. I thought it wouldn't be a bad idea since I'm unable to go to the gym more than 4 times a week, and that I would probably use this for some heavy resistance, but the very heavy turned out to be much lighter than I thought, and I doubt the Ultra heavy is much of an increase. To be honest I don't really benchpress that much compared to others, around 90 pound dumbells, and I could easily do around 18 reps on the Xertube. Don't get me wrong it's not a bad product except their resistance isn't so resistant. Women and a casual lifters might enjoy this product, and this product can give a great deal of toning, but if you're a heavy lifter, don't count on it for anything other than some light toning. It just doesn't have enough resistance. - P90x - Excercise Equipment - Exercise Bands - Resistance Bands'

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