Guy Low Price Electronic: 26 Feb 2009

Thursday, 26 February 2009

Wrinkle Resistant - pants, flat front

I've bought Haggar khakis for years, finding them to be of better quality than Levis Dockers. However, the quality of these pants has taken a serious nosedive just in the past year. I bought 2 pair last Fall (2009) and the hem at the bottom showed fraying after only a few months. The fraying only got worse and the hems are now completely threadbare. The pleats at mid-shin didn't fare much better and began to fray even sooner than the hems.

Additionally, the expandable strap on one pair simply snapped and detached from the inside of the waistband. I was able to fix it temporarily but I don't expect it to last.

After years of wearing such a sturdy product, it's intensely disappointing to see Haggar jump on the lower-quality bandwagon seemingly to save money in production. Haggar Men's Work To Weekend Expandable Waist Pleated Twill Pant,Black,42x29

Fabric is a little coarser than I hoped it would be and than it appeared in the on line picture. Pants catch a lot of lint but fit good. I'd appreciate more choice in styles for a 31" in seam. Most pants are only available with odd number inseams to 29, then only even numbers. 32 hits the floor for me and 30 is too short. I'm glad these pants were available in 31 and they fit fine, but will look for a smoother fabric and hope to see more choice in 31".

I bought these pants to wear at the office, and the toughest physical work I did wearing them was sitting in a chair. Despite that, they've become worn through in two different spots in the back. I've never had pants get worn so quickly, after just a few months use.

I wish I could get my money back, but unfortunately their warranty doesn't cover holes. - Flat Front - Pleated - Wrinkle Resistant - Pants'

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Metalsmithing - metalsmithing, jewelry design

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Interweave Press just sent me a preview copy of this fantastic new book-with-DVD by Lisa Niven Kelly. I was very curious to see what the artist/author had to say about the technique of stamping letters and symbols into metal, especially since it seems such a simple, straightforward process that hardly merits coverage in a 136-page book.

I just love it when my initial impressions are proved wrong... that means I've learned something new, and I love to learn! The contents of Stamped Metal Jewelry (SMJ) go far beyond what the title suggests. Besides providing 19 metal and mixed-media jewelry projects, a brief but inspiring gallery of stamped jewelry, resources, and a tools/materials section, this book does a very good job of laying out the basics of beginning metalsmithing and wirework. For this reason alone, I feel confident recommending SMJ to novice jewelry artists seeking instruction in these areas.

First, let me comment on the tools section: very thorough, well done, informative, important information is conveyed here. Experienced jewelry artists may feel that this chapter can be skipped, but I suggest having a look anyway--some interesting tools are discussed that may be unfamiliar to you. Consider the fun texture hammers and large wrap-n-tap pliers on page 12, tube-cutting pliers on the following page, hole-punch pliers, scribe, bracelet bending pliers, sanding sticks, and leather-working tools.

Now on to my favorite chapter segments: Basic Metalsmithing Techniques. The author addresses hammering and texturing first, suggesting the use of metal stamps for adding texture to metal besides the obvious usage of adding text or designs. She discusses using a riveting hammer and the ball end of a chasing hammer to create texture, and using hard metal objects and a brass-head hammer to forge textured designs into soft metal sheet.

Cutting and sawing metal (with a helpful blade-size guide) take up one page; hole punching and drilling (with another helpful guide: drill bits), how to dap (doming metal shapes), and riveting follow. I love the riveting section because the author carefully describes forming wire rivets, nail-head rivets, and tube rivets, with big photos making every step crystal-clear.

The metalsmithing section concludes with a discussion of oxidizing and polishing methods and annealing (softening metal with heat). If you read the book carefully up through page 31 and practice all the techniques presented, you will be well on your way to becoming an informed metal jewelry artist.

The "main event" follows: six pages devoted to stamping text and designs into metal. Lisa has been perfecting this skill for years, so naturally she has a few things to say about safety, work station set-up, the basics of stamping (alignment, centering, stamping with design stamps, and the author's own tilt-n-tap method--also demoed on the DVD).

That's the heart of the book, really, and if you read it carefully and follow the author's instructions, you can immediately start stamping metal with confidence. But we're just getting started: page 38 begins the projects section, with 19 jewelry designs from simple to more complex and challenging. Once you stamp a simple pendant, you'll be ready to try making an I.D. bracelet, stamped pre-fab rings, linked bracelets and bangles, stamped and riveted rings, a really cool textured metal pendant framed with coiled wire and beads, a leather cuff, and much more.

I really appreciate the author's inclusion of work from other designers such as Kriss Silva, Janice Berkebile, Lisa Claxton, Kate Ferrant Richbourg, Tracy Stanley, and Connie Fox. These artists contributed some unique ideas and jewelry projects you may recognize from the workshops they teach at bead events across the US, such as Janice's famed "Crown Jewel" pendant.

A short gallery and two pages of wirework basics finish the book, which is indexed. But wait--there's more! A 33-minute instructional DVD accompanies SMJ, featuring the author as she goes over the use of tools, basic stamping techniques, tilt-n-tap (very helpful!), and a bonus jewelry project not included in the book. You don't want to miss it. Although Lisa has covered her subject with great care in her book, sometimes seeing the basic techniques in action can really help make everything more clear. Be sure to watch the DVD, practice the basic techniques demonstrated, and you're ready to make beautiful jewelry using wire, sheet metal, leather, rivets, and more.

Sharilyn Miller, author of Contemporary Copper Jewelry Stamped Metal Jewelry: Creative Techniques and Designs for Making Custom Jewelry

Stamped Metal Jewelry

CREATIVE TECHNIQUES & DESIGNS FOR MAKING CUSTOM JEWELRY

by Lisa Niven Kelly

creator of Beaducation

Way back, when I was first teaching myself how to make jewelry with a few books and a lot of assistance from online sources, I came across Lisa Niven Kelly on the internet. She hadn't even established her fantastically popular online store yet.

I remember when Lisa had two famous projects: her super pretty wide cuff, and her stamped bangle with a clasp. I fell in love with both of them. I went to my husband Jim and BEGGED him to get me these projects (which were sold as kits with printed out instructions, at the time) plus all the tools, and everything I would need, so I could learn from my heroine, Lisa Niven Kelly. Those kits and tools were what I received for Christmas that year! It was a whole new world for me!

I am delighted to be able to review this wonderful book and DVD, as Lisa Niven Kelly remains the resident All Star at teaching stamping combined with certain kinds or wire work in jewelry design. I continue to be one of her loyal followers. She never quits devising new fantastic creations for us to want to make! Many of them are offered in this fine new book!

Therefore to have a hard copy book available of her careful yet assertive manner of teaching is a pleasure. To have these new projects to try is a total joy!

All the little things I might have forgotten, or wanted to know and never got the chance to learn from the author, are in here. On the 35 minute DVD, which has two projects, there are some great examples of some of her tips. One is how to center a word properly when you stamp. Another good one is how to stamp with a decorative stamp, which is more difficult than a letter of the alphabet, and make it come out completely perfect. I watched the DVD very closely and learned a lot. It is definitely a worthwhile addition to the book.

The author stresses that you practice, first, on copper blanks or with copper wire so that you don't waste good money on sterling silver. She also explains safety precautions very clearly in the book and on the DVD, particularly when you are oxidizing.

The introduction conveys her excitement at being able to share all her years of experience with the reader. She explains how "compatible" stamping is with other forms of wire work. She explains that within the book you will learn how to rivet, hammer,and dapp, as well as stamp, and that the stamping "adds that little extra something that makes your design special and truly personal".

I agree! The very first "say it on your wrist" bangle I made said "The Ruse" on it. It had a few spiral designs, and a clasp. The Ruse is the name of my son's band. I gave it to his girlfriend, who is now his wife. Wherever she wore it, all her friends would comment on it and ask her how to get one. These bangles thoroughly convey your thoughts, when you make one. When you yourself learn to stamp, your love of what you are doing will be expressed in such a great manner!

The projects in the book are very flexible and so pretty! It is wonderful to learn to control a hammer properly and gives the reader a sense of empowerment when creating jewelry, as well. I find it to be like meditation, and enjoy feeling strong as I make stamped jewelry. I think it is cool, yet feminine to be able to do this well.

In Stamped Metal Jewelry, I particularly like the textured metal pendant. As an introduction to this lovely piece, the author comes right out and says, "This project appeals to sculptural wire fans who like very few rules". I am certainly drawn to that observation!Additionally, well made, sturdy jewelry is a must in my opinion, and the author always delivers the goods on sturdiness! This piece is terrific and unique. You will love it.

Another piece the reader will love is Lisa's friend's, Tracy Stanly's, "Simply Charming" charm bracelet. It includes instructions on how to make the graceful links which hold together the actual bracelet, and all the stamped pieces which make up the charms, plus an assortment of beads to mix up textures and lengths. It is a good example of another stamper's fabulous style.

At the end of the project, which is very well photographed, there is a section called, "Charmed, I'm sure!" which gives further inspiration on popular charm bracelet themes. The ideas are all excellent. They will bolster your enthusiasm in your ongoing work on a particular charm bracelet you are making.

I like the very clear techniques posted next to each each project as well.

I also love the "make it your own" posts the author offers after the very clear step out photos which show how to make each project.

If you have never heard of Lisa Niven Kelly, and you think you would like to try stamping, you have come to the right place. She is the expert's expert. This is a fine way to learn from her. This book, Stamped Metal Jewelry, creative techniques and designs for making custom jewelry, with its accompanying DVD, is totally wonderful. Short of taking a class at a bead show with the author, which is impossible for many of us, we have it all right here. Lisa Niven Kelly has real talent and she shares it willingly and abundantly with the reader. She also has included a beautiful gallery at the end of the book of inspirational work from her friends. I am thrilled with this book! - Jewelry Design - How To - Metalsmithing - Jewelry Making'

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Collectors Edition

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This game is beautiful. Granted not perfect, but it would be unrealistic to expect much more from a game of this magnitude. The technical constraints, I can only imagine, were numerous. The story is fantastic, extremely engaging, and to anyone with at least a grade 5 level of intelligence, enormously relevant in today's society. The gameplay is tight - despite occasional AI glitches - and thoroughly immersive. The sheer amount of options at your disposal when customizing your character is astounding. I found myself taking forever to choose where I would use my praxis points, as almost every decision you make in Human Revolution has a direct impact in your experience - in other words, it's fantastic. Rarely have I found myself so drawn into a world, a game, the way I have with Human Revolution. If you're a fan of engaging stories, intense action and Rpgs in general, then do yourself a favor and buy this game. Deus Ex Human Revolution - Augmented Edition

I played it on the "easy" level because I am new to the franchise... Loved the game, and will play it again at a harder level, and try different ways to buy augmentations. I will also try more stealth play like I had to do in the Splinter Cell franchise. Was very worth having the sniper rifle available at the very beginning. Definitely listen to the ending after the credits!!!

Got it in my hands the day it was released, if not the day before (don't remember because I was so happy to get it). Got the new Star Wars the day BEFORE it was released, so I will definitely do pre-order through Amazon again on other things I want!

Just spent 7 days getting through this with minumal food and sleep. just finished it. now most go through again to see the other endings. The Augmented addition i guess if you want to spend the extra 10 bucks its alright with a extra bluray disc not a dvd. bluray dvd and a nice art book and box for the game. its thought provoking and story line is good. the graphics can hang and sometimes you have to wait 10-15 seconds to get in between doors. but the characters are great and for conspiracy people you will lovve this game. good reply value with the augmentation system you can't unlock all on one play through so you'll want to go through again and try a different line up. i got stuck needing one aug at one point but got it later on and it still was great for me. the stealth clock is awesome but the battery system blows

I love this game. If I didn't already own it I would sell my children to buy it. Having said that, I have to admit that I have no children at the moment. BUT I am so serious about this game that I would go out and find a nice young lady, impregnate her, wait the nine months, grab the freshly birthed child and sell it on the Black Market. Then with the money that I got from the sale of the child I would run to the store, grab the game, throw the money on the counter and then punch the clerk in the face, buy a taco, run home, (on the way shove the old lady that is slowing me down into traffic) and play the game.

Overall, I think the game was GREAT even though there were some minor problems I had with it like some of the animations, but that didn't stop me from playing it and it didn't ruining my experience with the game. Recommend this game to anyone who likes role-action type games.

Game itself is great but greatly disappointed in this Augmented Edition for PS3. Got it mainly for soundtrack but it is a BLuray bonus disc not a DVD as listed. When you play bonus disc in ps3 and select score it tells you to insert BD in BD drive of computer to copy mp3 files. Problem is only BD drive I have is my ps3 which won't recognize disc under music in xmb so no way to get soundtrack.

The game is single shooter only no online for this game.

Pros: Apart from that the game is great. Some unusual things that make it great like you can upgrade the guy in plenty of ways so he is good at hacking or seeing through walls.

Cons: Maps are tricky to read and understand.

Xp points take time so keep exploring.'

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The Rolling Stones - psychedelic, classic rock

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This November 2009 EMI Limited Edition 2CD set (Oct in the UK) is a 40th Anniversary celebration of Bowie's long forgotten and criminally underrated 2nd album - "David Bowie" [later known as "Space Oddity"]. There's a lot on here, so let's get to the details...

Disc 1 (46:12 minutes)

Tracks 1 to 9 are the album "David Bowie" issued 14 November 1969 on Phillips SBL 7902 in the UK (produced by TONY VISCONTI). Released in the same month in the USA but with slightly altered artwork (the photo on the cover is used as the 1st page of the booklet), the US version was re-titled as "Man Of Words/Man Of Music" and issued on Mercury SR-61246.

Disc 2 (63:47 minutes):

1. Space Oddity (early 'Demo' version featuring duet vocals with John "Hutch" Hutchinson, recorded January 1969)

2. An Occasional Dream (early 'Demo' version also featuring duet vocals with John "Hutch" Hutchinson, recorded March/April 1969)

3. Wild Eyed Boy From Freecloud (this is an alternate version put out as the non-album B-side to "Space Oddity" issued in July 1969 as a UK 7" single on Philips BF 1801. It contains the Paul Buckmaster spoken intro and less brass and strings - none of which are on the LP version)

4. Let Me Sleep Beside You

5. Unwashed And Somewhat Slightly Dazed

6. Janine

4 to 6 were recorded live for the Dave Lee Travis show on the BBC's Radio 1 on 20 Oct 1969 (broadcast 26 Oct). 5 and 6 have been issued before on the 2000 CD set "Bowie On The Beeb..." but 4 is previously unreleased

7. London, Bye, Ta-Ta (Stereo Version) (recorded in January 1970 in Trident Studios as a follow up single to "Space Oddity" but shelved, this version first appeared on the "Sound + Vision" 4CD Box set in 2003)

8. The Prettiest Star (Stereo Version) (released as a UK 7" single in March 1970 on Mercury MF 1135 but only in MONO - this STEREO version first appeared on the 1997 compilation "The Best Of...1969/1974")

9. Conversation Piece (Stereo Version) (the non-album B-side to "The Prettiest Star" 7" single which was only ever issued in MONO - this is a previously unreleased STEREO version)

10. Memory Of A Free Festival (Part 1)

11. Memory Of A Free Festival (Part 2)

10 and 11 are the A&B of the June 1970 UK 7" single on Philips 6052 026. This is not the LP track, but a re-recorded version then split across two sides of a single. These first appeared on the Ryko CD version of "Space Oddity" in 1990.

12. Wild Eyed Boy From Freecloud (Alternate Album Mix)

13. Memory Of A Free Festival (Alternate Album Mix) (previously unreleased version that is over 2 minutes longer)

14. London, Bye, Ta-Ta (Alternate Stereo Mix)

15. Ragazzo Solo, Ragazza Sola (Full Length Stereo Version) (the 1970 Italian version of "Space Oddity". It translates into "Lonely Boy, Lonely Girl". The single mix turned on the "Bowie Rare" LP in 1983, but this version is previously unreleased)

1, 2, 4, 9, 12 to 15 are previously unreleased

The British album (on which this release is based) originally came in a fetching gatefold sleeve (now a hugely collectable £400 vinyl rarity in mint condition) and it's this artwork that's used for both the back and front cover of the tri-gatefold digipak. Different Trident Studios Master Tape boxes are pictured under each see-through CD tray, while the 32-page booklet is a feast of memorabilia from fans and collectors - rare picture sleeves, trade adverts, period photos - all topped off with a fantastically detailed essay by noted expert KEVIN CANN.

If I was to have a gripe about the booklet and the packaging, it would be this - on the back of the UK success of the "Hunky Dory" album in September 1972 (reached number 3 in the UK charts), the "David Bowie" album was then reissued in November 1972 on RCA Victor LSP 4813 as "Space Oddity". It came in different artwork and was given an inner lyric bag and a foldout poster. I mention this because for such an extensive and superbly annotated booklet, none of this is printed or pictured - an odd omission?

But it's a minor point because the real sparks are to be found in the SOUND. Remastered from the first generation master tapes by PETER MEW at Abbey Road with help from TRIS PENNA and NIGEL REEVE - the audio is FABULOUS. I've sung the praises of Peter Mew's work before (Jethro Tull's "This Was" and Dr. Feelgood's "Down At The Jetty" jump to mind - see reviews) and having years and hundreds of credits to his name, he knows his way around a tape or two. I've never heard the track "Space Oddity" sound so clear and full - it's a superlative job. The clarity on the two newly found demos at the beginning of Disc 2 is incredible also - especially given their vintage and crude recordings.

The music itself is an acquired taste. Not quite the Sixties pop of his debut or the Seventies rock brilliance of "Ziggy" and "Hunky Dory" which was just around the corner, it's a man finding his artistic feet - ideas are everywhere - and it's even quite folky in places. It won't be everyone's cup of tea for sure, but if you've the inclination, it's a rediscovery well worth making...

To sum up - this is a superb reissue - and it's the dogs bollox where it matters the most - in the sound department.

Far above the world - sitting in his tin can - Major Tom is grinning...

Recommended. Space Oddity (40th Anniversary Edition)

A very good special edition reissue, while I don't consider this album essential for Bowie fans, it is a historically important snapshot of David Bowie at the tail end of the 60s. The reality is, while Bowie kept at the singles market throughout the 60s, he was probably too out of sync with the sensibilities of the 60s to belong to that era. He began to find his voice with this album, but he would also have a ways to go before he truly arrived. First off, the title track is a truly great piece, not only a great song, but a great record as well. The team of Producer Gus Dudgeon, and arranger Paul Buckmaster delivered such an impeccable record, that Elton John and Taupin would soon snatch them up for John's series of classic albums. Rick Wakeman's eerie Mellotron blends almost perfectly with Buckmaster's arrangement. Producer Tony Visconti takes over for the rest of the proceedings, "Unwashed and Somewhat Slightly Dazed" evolves into a good up-tempo rocker, with some hot harmonica soloing and an horn ensemble. The fun little filler known as "Don't Sit Down" is tagged on the end of "Unwashed" as all one track, and this differs from the Ryko reissue from the early 90s.

"Letter To Hermione" is a plaintive ballad about the breakup of his girlfriend. "The Cygnet Committee" is one of the more interesting tracks, as it's theme would be explored again with "Savoir Machine" off of the next album TMWSTW, as well as some thematic aspects of Ziggy Stardust, A messianic figure exploiting his followers, while his followers exploit him in kind. The song also seems to also be a scathing lament of the fallen ideals of utopian hippies, i.e. the outcome of Altamont, the career opportunism of Woodstock, etc... The electric Harpsichord work of Rick Wakemen is outstanding on this track and tends to get overlooked. "Janine" is probably the most accessible track, and for my tastes, the least interesting, and the track I tend to feel seems like filler. While not essential, I like "An Occasional Dream", while it seems a little dated, the Flute and recorder ensemble works well, and harkens to Bowie's Anthony Newley influence. The Newley influence creeps through on "The Wild Eyed Boy From Freecloud", I initially assumed that Paul Buckmaster was involved in the arrangement, being that it was the B side to "Space Oddity", and Buckmaster could be heard on Bowie's Demo, but to my surprise Tony Visconti was responsible for this epic, over the top orchestral arrangement.

"God Knows I'm Good" is a narrative about a shoplifting incident that manages to comment on rationalist thinking. "Memory of a Free Festival" is an odd closer, with Bowie's plaintive vocal and pump organ, that again seems to be a sympathetic lament on the idealism of the late 60s. The closing "Sun Machine" segment seems to reference "Hey Jude", as there's a horn ensemble buried in the mix to reinforce that impression. While there's a certain degree of studio polish on the album, there's also a kind of looseness present we would never see again from Bowie.

Peter Mew's work on the digital remaster is outstanding, with some added presence, and clarity when needed. The second disc is generous with it's selections, while a number of these tracks appeared on the Ryko issues, or the Sound and Vision box set. These versions of "Space Oddity" and "Occasional Dream" are demos featuring his brief partnership with John Hutchinson, This version of "Freecloud" had already been heard on the 'Sound and Vision' collection. "Let Me Sleep Beside You, Unwashed", and "Janine" are recordings from the BBC Radio D.T.L show, and rather good. Two mixes of "London, Bye, Ta, Ta" are included, although the track had already appeared on the 'Sound and Vision' set. A Stereo mix of 1970's "The Prettiest Star" with Marc Bolan is included.

A Stereo mix of "Conversation Piece" is featured, whereas the Ryko addition featured a Mono mix, this track is interesting from the standpoint of showing a confessional self reflective side to Bowie's writing that normally isn't seen. The electric re-take of "Memory of a Free Festival" is included, featuring the first time Mick Ronson appears, as well as a layer of moog synths, this was the other bonus featured on the Ryko 1990s issue, this version of "Memory" hints at the hard rock glam direction Bowie would soon take. A longer version of "Memory", from the original album, with a longer fade out is also included. Also included is an alternative mix of "Freecloud" where the vocal is brought more forward, and the orchestration less emphasized. The Italian mix of "Space Oddity (Ragazzo Solo, Ragazza Sola)", features an interesting mix of the backing tracks for Gus Dudgeon's production and brings this collection full circle.

The packaging, while missing lyrics, includes a great set of liner notes from Kevin Cann, as well as a timeline of Bowie's career during this period. As well as unreleased photos, sketches, and art work. The packaging certainly offers value for your dollar, but seems geared towards completists, or the very curious. Hopefully this will lead the way towards generous reissues of "The Man Who Sold The World" and "Hunky Dory". Recommended. - The Cure - Psychedelic - Glam Rock - Classic Rock'

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Video Games

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For fans of the original Deus Ex, Deus Ex: Invisible War was a big letdown. Although the game in itself was good, there was no way it would hold up to the richness that Deus Ex brought to the PC in 2000. So, how would Deus Ex: Human Revolution hold up the vast amount of hype surrounding its four-year creation?

First, to answer to one of the only real complaints I've heard from gamers: lack of multiplayer functionality. One must realize that the Deus Ex series was never intended to be a multiplayer series. One of my biggest complaints about games that are created more so for multiplayer than solo is that so much work is put into the multiplayer features that the solo aspect of the game becomes mediocre, if not pathetic. In my opinion, this has plagued many games, from the Halo series to most of the Call of Duty games. People don't buy these to play the one-player scenario tract; people buy these games so they can get online and challenge other people that own the game. If the solo aspect of the game was altogether eliminated and the multiplayer option was all that was left, people wouldn't care. Games that are RPG-based, such as Deus Ex, Final Fantasy, Star Ocean, etc., are designed to be a single-player game. They pour everything into the story, the music, character development, and gameplay. That is why I applaud the creators of Deus Ex Human Revolution for not creating a multipleyer option. It would run counter to previous titles in the series, plus I honestly don't see how turning Deus Ex into a simple deathmatch would make the game better. If I want a simple deathmatch game, I'll play Call of Duty over Xbox Live.

Now, back to the game itself. I feel the game has held up to the hype. While not the most graphically beautiful game in the world, the game does a great job of creating a cyberpunk atmosphere that perfectly suites the game. As another review said, the game almost feels like being in the world from Blade Runner. The music has enough comparisons to the previous Deus Ex games, while keeping itself unique. The voice acting is well-done. Normally during games with voice-acting, I would read the words on the bottom and skip ahead if I got done before they stopped talking. With Human Revolution, I listen to the conversation and ignore the subtitles completely. Facial movements and tones of voice do a great job of portraying the speakers state of mind.

I love the gameplay. The limited inventory size was carried over from the previous game, although you can now increase the size through augmentation. This causes you to have to be selective on what weapons you take, which you discard, and what additional items you carry. Granted, the limited ammo found in the game might upset others that are used to having unlimited or almost-unlimited ammo capacity, I think this causes you to be careful on ammo usage, be as precise as possible on firing, and causing you to be more stealthy and use take-downs on enemies, rather than simply unloading a clip into them.

While I don't expect the replay value to be high, Deus Ex Human Revolution is a game that I would want to play through again. There are many things that will be missed the first time through. I've never grown tired of playing through the original Deus Ex, even though I've beaten it over a dozen times. I would strongly recommend Deus Ex Human Revolution to anyone that looks for a good story within a game. You'll find yourself immersed into their world and you'll lose track of time very quickly. If you're one that spends most of your time playing multiplayer games, I wouldn't recommend this. Odds are you might lose interest in the story rather quickly, plus the lack of ammo will drive you insane when compared to games like Halo where you have almost unlimited ammo to work with. Top game of the year candidate. Deus Ex: Human Revolution

The original Deus Ex(DX) hit the market back in 2000 and with its combination of a Cyberpunk atmosphere and fusion of RPG and FPS elements, became a hit title that eventually won game of the year amongst many other awards. The game was ahead of its time in a way, similar to how Blade Runner (the movie) was ahead of its time for back in the 1980's. With this new release, DX: HR, does the game fall into mediocrity or does DX continue to be a a beautiful melody of various gameplays in an immerse environment?.... A few technical details aside, I would say this game easily marks a new generation in the Deus Ex line and could just be one of the best SP based campaign game released in 2011.

GAMEPLAY

And a whole lot of it! This game is massive and the cyberpunk vision of the future is captured beautifully. DX:HR I feel, tends to be a blend of FPS meets Stealth meets Espionage meets Social. You play as Adam Jensen who is a security officer for an Augmentation company. After an attack leaves him so badly wounded he needs heavy body augmentation the game begins. Who plotted the attack? Why? Terrorism? Self-Sabotage? The conspiracy runs deep and it is your job to figure out it! At your disposal is a very immerse and game changing set of mechanics that shapes how you play the game, yet adapts to your play-style. Need to get to the 5th floor and hack a terminal.. no problem go in guns blazing...or maybe stealth past the guards taking them out one at a time... or maybe break in through a vent system...or combine all 3! Not only can you approach objectives and quests from various methods, but there often are quite a few options available to you. You don't always need to take that grate on the left. You could hack the janitor's closet and steal the keycard and just walk right in on the objective. Maybe there is a guard wandering who has a keycard also, or someone wrote it in an email message that you found when hacking terminals. The variety is just huge and never gets old! To top it all off you can upgrade Mr. Jensen to better suit your play-style

As you complete objectives, side quests, or basically do anything you gain XP. Shoot a mob you get XP, stealth him instead XP, Avoid combat all together get XP! Hacking amounts to bonus XP as hacking is more of a mini-game than a mandatory tool in this game, but I found it worth my time to hack. It was fun and provided some interesting bits of information that paid off in the long run. Anyhow, the XP you gain is used to level up Jensen, and as you level you gain the ability to further boost the level of mods you have. What is so beautiful about this the upgrades compliment your play-style. You are not forced to pick upgrades you do not want, however I rarely found that I picked something that felt like a waste. It is a solid system that gives you the freedom to play as you want for the most part.

GRAPHICS

Deus Ex: Human Revolution is not the flashiest of games. It isn't the latest and greatest game engine that might choke your PS3/360 or stress your video card until it explodes. The game still looks very good though. It captures a cyberpunk / blade runner style atmosphere very well and uses a darker color pallet which makes for a slightly darker vision of the future. Character animations can seem a little stiff or awkward at times, but do remember people are walking around with augmentations so the body movements might seem a bit unnatural for a reason. On the PS3 version the Frame-rate dropped from time to time, especially during one or two intense cut-scenes but it wasn't that bad. There was similar frame-rate issues on the 360 but occurring in different areas spots so the drop is probably relating to how the system is handling the engine itself. Graphically, the PS3 vs the 360 have differences but not enough to sway me to one or the other. It really depends on what you are looking at, at the time you are comparing. Sometimes PS3 looked better, sometimes 360. PS3 lighting was better in some spots, yet the 360 had better coloring in others.

In short... The Graphics, while not the best, are very good and despite the PS3 and 360 having some frame-rate issues, either system is a perfect option for this game; each boasting pros and cons over the other.

SOUND/STORY

The music for this game is awesome! The style of music chosen fits the environment and setting of the game perfectly, going well with the cyberpunk theme. It helps immerse you into the game which is a big plus. Voice acting however is a sub-par as often the same voice actor played multiple characters and didn't even change their voice. You may even find multiple characters who say the same line of text. I'm not surprised by this though as the original Deus Ex had some of the Worst-yet best! voice acting of any game I played. .... Storyline wise, while I honestly have not completed the game at this point (the game is LONG!), the storyline is great! Everything you do has influences on the game, and the storyline is very deep and balanced. It is full of plot twists and surprises that had me hooked.

REPLAY/LENGTH

While this game lacks multiplayer, you are getting your $'s worth here. The game easily has 25+hrs of gameplay, more like 30-40 hrs if you factor in side quests and taking your time to really immerse yourself. Not only does this game boast a huge amount of varied gameplay, but I could easily see myself picking it up and doing it all over again! The variety in gameplay is just that amazing. You stealthed your way into the building for Mission 6, replay it and try going Rambo. You might find new items or bits of information, or even slightly influence events of that mission. Deus Ex reminds me a little of Mass Effect in this sense. Every new gameplay can be filled with little bits and pieces you may of missed, or simply did not see in a previous playthrough; plus there are multiple endings to this game which only tempt you to try alternative paths and methods.

CONS

Normally I integrate my Con's into each section, but Deus-Ex is the kind of game that you need to see the entire picture. The game can clock it easily +25hrs and has such a wide variety of elements to it things were bound to go wrong in some spots. This comes in the form of frame-rate problems(see graphics), boss encounters, and AI problems. Frame-rate has been covered but Boss Encounters were a disappointment simply because there is only one real way to fight them. RAMBO style! If you specialized in hacking that won't help you during the fight. The illusion of choice is removed here and you are forced into a play style you might not enjoy. This isn't a major problem but for someone who didn't specialize in guns, since the game is forgiving, it feels like bosses were rushed in rather than fully thought out. AI problems well, it was to be expected. Sometimes enemies just become stupid and forget you are there or have such obvious pathing it makes you wonder how they were even hired to be guards. Despite their AI problems however they seem to have eagle eye vision when it comes to accuracy with guns (which makes for a good challenge!)

OVERALL ... 93% (9.3 / A)

Deus Ex: Human Revolution is a product of its sums. Individually each part of the game, from the shooter, to the stealth to the social aspects 'could have' been done better. Instead each element was created specifically to balance the other and what you end up with is a game that has multiple play-styles, gameplay which caters to the needs of the player, immerse storyline and environment, and a wide variety of methods to tackle the problem; so much so alternative play-throughs are a must! DX: HR has technical issues, but when a single game can easily surpass 25-30hrs and contain such variety, a few problems might slip through the cracks or be inevitable.

In the end, we have a beautiful game that will keep you glued to your PC, 360 or PS3.'

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Magnetic Dry Erase Board - dry erase, small magnetic dry erase board

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The hanger magnets enclosed won't hold the weight of this so it just slides down the wall. The frame is cheap and plastic (I ordered two; one was an ugly tan and one was baby blue.) The white board is easily scratched by magnets and not-so-easily cleaned. Returned. QRTMHOW8511 - Magnetic Whiteboard, 8-1/2x11, Assorted Plastic Frame

I use this little dry erase board every day. I have it on my fridge. It was really easy to set up and the eraser is on the lid of the pen so it's fun and convenient to use. If I could give more than five stars, I would. - Small Magnetic Dry Erase Board - White Board - Dry Erase Boards - Dry Erase'

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Blackberry Car Charger - car charger, bold 9700

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Bought this car charger for the BlackBerry Bold 9700. With its Micro USB it fits perfectly. This is a RIM product with the BlackBerry logo. If you have a BlackBerry with a Universal Micro USB you cannot go wrong buying this charger. The Micro USB port is smaller than the Universal Mini USB port. Therefore, Micro and Mini USB accessories are not interchangeable. Generally, the Micro USB is on newer phones. This charger will not work with the Bold 9000 (which was the first Bold to hit the market and is usually known simply as "Bold".) BlackBerry Original Car Charger for BlackBerry Pearl 8220, Gemini 8520, Curve 8900, Storm2 9520, Storm 9530,Tour 9630, Bold 9700

Once again Amazon has show why it is such a great company. It offers authentic products at a reasonable price and this is the case here. This charger would cost around 4-5 times as much in a brick and mortar retail store. Why pay more?

My friends, I am happy to say this device works splendidly, and works quite well with my HTC EVo. The device itself was created by Blackberry, and I am sure for Blackberry, but it works without any error among devices which maintain a micro-usb port (as far as I know). The one flaw I did find (and minor at that), is when you insert the charger into the car plug. The insertion can be a bit tight upon the first couple of uses, and may become more worn over time, and therefore, less tight, but I have not been using it long enough to discover that of yet. I would highly recommend this product at the splendid price of $7.00, and if you couple it with another item which qualifies as a super-saver shipping item, then you'll pay nothing more for shipping ($25.00 and above, I believe). Cheers my friends, and may you "Live long and Prosper". :)

Bought it for my girlfriend to charge her Blackberry Curve 8530 while she is driving and using GPS. Works great, came in good packaging. Ordered it in the late afternoon on a Thursday and received in the next day with Prime! Would recommend to anybody who wants to save money.

Even though this is Blackberry brand, it only seems to be giving low amperage to my Blackberry phone. It takes a very long time to charge the phone with this charger .. my wife's Motorola car charger does a much quicker job of charging my Blackberry than with this one.

I order these a few months back and got them from Amazon and they were Genuine BlackBerry products which are Great.

I needed more, I'm buying for my companys Sales team who are out on the road, so I placed an order and apperently Amazon was out so I decided to use one of the "other" sellers. I order 6 from ACC Stop and received generic off brand items, I contacted the company and they allowed me to return them and credited my back.

I still needed charges so I checked again and Amazon still was out so this time I thought I'd contact the "other" seller BEFORE I ordered and verify that they were infact Genuine BlackBerry Brand items so I emailed "The OEM Shop" and asked if their product was "a BlackBerry Brand items" which they replied with "Yes it is". I then moved forward and ordered 6 of these from them, "The OEM Shop". Today I receive a package in the mail with only 2 charges (so I was shorted 4) and guess what THEY WERE NOT BlackBerry Brand items. I promptly emailed the company requesting a return label and refund, I am waiting to hear back from them. I checked today and was able to order the item from Amazon, which I know are going to be GENUINE. This has been such a hassle!

So the moral of the story is ONLY BUY FROM AMAZON!!! - Car Charger - Bold 9700 - Micro Usb - Blackberry'

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Cell Phone Accessories

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Lose-fitting Chinese piece of junk. Doesn't work. Although it only cost $3 (plus shipping), it's a waste of money and not worth my time to bother sending it back for a refund. Garbage. wish I could rate it zero stars. USB Data Charge Sync Cable for Motorola Droid A855 / CLIQ

This cable flat out does not work as advertised, I ordered 5 cables, 1 of 5 worked to transfer data and non of them worked to charge my Droid. They did arrive quickly but were of very poor quality. I can't stress this enough BUYER BEWARE!!!

The plugs fit perfectly snug. It charges and syncs the phone perfectly. It's perfectly cheap.

I can't imagine what's going on with the people who gave it 1 star. For $3.00 I don't expect much, but I feel I got a lot. It's a cable for a $550 phone, delivered to my house for $3.00.

Did I mention it works perfectly? Well, it does.

The OEM Motorola Droid is no different than the Palm Treo Pro in one respect. The OEM USB cables that came with each can not be replaced with Generic USB cables just because they have the same connectors on each end. I am in a battle with one Ebay seller who sold me what was titled as OEM Motorola Droid A855 USB cable.

The cable was an OEM cable, so they didn't lie, but it was a Samsung OEM cable. In the body of the auction they say that it also fits all these other phones. Just because it fits, does not mean that it works.

The wrong cable can send keyboard commands to the phone, and not allow data communication.

As one other person already said, let the buyer beware.

Don't gamble on the USB cable to your expensive cell phone. If yo damage it, you may have to pay to get it fixed.

Cable is inexpensive, shipping was very fast but, while it charges fine it will not up or download data. At $2, with all the good reviews, I am gonna order another... what do I have to loose, $4 (it is $20 at the Verizon store)?

I bought this to have a spare charger that I could keep at work. It doesn't work. It caused my Droid to crash first time I connected it. Then I tried again and the screen just flashes back and forth between the home screen and the "USB Connected" screen, rendering it absolutely useless. At two bucks with free shipping, it isn't worth returning.

This cable does provide data sync for my Droid though transfer rates appear much slower than with original cable. This cable will not recharge your Droid. Even when attached directly to outlet recharger, it recharged Droid less than 10% in 24 hours. I can't recommend this product.

This cable is really thin and the plug doesn't fit securely in the motorolla droid phone. I bought 3 cables (home, car, work), and tried it on my phone, and two friend's phones, but it's loose on all of them. Worse yet, it connects, then disconnects, and connects again, and disconnects. On off on off on off on off until your battery is dead. On the RARE occasion it works, if you don't touch it at all it slowly charges and syncs, but I haven't figured out how to make it work reliably at all. JUNK! JUNK! JUNK! JUNK!'

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Patch Cable - cat5, networking cables

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This 100ft cable is a good cable, it is good for running through the walls to hook up a Xbox 360 or PC to a router. The only reason I gave it four out of five stars is because the cable was made with poor connectors. The cheep connectors that come with it correctly lock into the Ethernet port but are slightly too small, which allows them to come loose and disconnect from the internet. As long as you are not moving the computer or Xbox while you are using them, then this cable will work fine for you. If you need to be able to move something while using it. Then find a better cable. WHITE 100FT CAT5 CAT5e RJ45 PATCH ETHERNET NETWORK CABLE 100 FT

We needed a nonobtrusive ethernet connection for a room distant from the modem. This fit the bill perfectly. It was far less expensive and more compatable in length and color than could be found at any computer solutions source in our small community. I used the standard shipping method and it arrived far sooner than was quoted. Thanks bunches from those in the house for whom wireless was ineffective.

The requirements for a CAT5 cable call for single twisted pair wires to cancel out electromagnetic interference : [...]. Each of the four pairs in a Cat 5 cable has differing precise number of twists per metre based on prime numbers to minimize crosstalk between the pairs, on average 6 twists per 2 inches.

This product does not have twisted wires and that makes it, by definition, NOT a CAT5e cable, not even a CAT5.

Since it's a patch cable, it does use stranded wires, which also means, as another reviewer observed, that you cannot cut it and put new connectors on it, since the flexibility of the wires make it hard to push it all the way in.

On top of that, I don't think the wires are copper, since copper is not supposed to look silvery (see picture).

But wait, it gets worse - I don't think it's 24 AWG cable either. Of course, since it's stranded it makes it a bit more difficult to measure it, but as far as I can tell, the diameter is closer to that of 26 AWG than 24. My caliper read 0.42 mm; 26AWG is 0.40mm, which is closer if you account for the stranded wires, while 24AWG is supposed to be 0.51mm.

All these factors are bad enough by themselves, but if you add that to the length of the cable, it makes for an abysmal quality item.

Out of the box this cable only connected at 100T speeds, gigabit connection was not possible.

On the plus side, the wire is pretty flexible, which in theory should make for really good wiring around the house, but running untwisted cable over a 100ft is just asking for trouble.

Hey, a cable is a cable, Right? The big difference is the price. The only one I could find localy was over $80. These cable are high quality and cost under $20. I am definitely pleased with the way it is working.

This would've been a fine cable but it arrived with a big gash through the rubber casing and it did not work when tested.

After searching the cable we found the open area and located a spot on one of the wires where it had been sliced in half. I repaired the wire myself and closed the rubber with electrical tape but if you don't know how to do this kind of repair you would be stuck with a non working cable. Also, now it doesn't look very nice but luckily that does not matter for my application.

Other than that is an OK cable. The rubber is supple (perhaps too soft to protect it!) and it works fine as long as none of your wires are sliced in half. If you receive a non damaged cable I'm sure it would be a good value at this price.

Just steer clear of these cables. I bought several of these cables as a relatively cheap way to wire some rooms in the house for Internet access. You get what you pay for.

First of all, as another reviewer stated, this isn't even cat5 cable. None of the wire pairs are twisted. Wire pairs are twisted to reduce crosstalk. Twisted pairs are part of the cat5 spec. No twisted pairs = no cat5.

Second, the wires are probably 26AWG, instead of the 22AWG or 24AWG required. That means that you can't cut the ends off these and expect to wire the cable to a wall jack. The wall jacks I use require a punch-down tool to push the wire into a couple of metal pins. The pins typically cut through the rubber sleeve on the wire and make contact with the wire itself. Since these wires are thinner than required, the rubber is never cut sufficiently, resulting in inconsistent contact.

Third, the connectors on the end are just crap. They are small, so they move around in the RJ45 port on switches, routers, or computers. This causes any connection you might have to drop in and out. Also, the pins on the connector are smaller than on a known good cable connector. The pins are about half the width of a good cable, again resulting in bad connections.

Fourth, the wires are not copper. Reading up on cheap cat5 cables, I see that copper-clad aluminum is being used in cheap wires. Copper is used in wires for a reason. It conducts the signal much better than other materials while still keeping a good price point. The copper-clad aluminum will pretty much rule out using these cables for gigabit ethernet connections. You'll be lucky to get 100Mbit connections.

Luckily, I only ran a couple of these wires before discovering all of this, so I don't have to do too much work to rewire those rooms. The price on these cables was too good to be true and now I know why. Don't waste your money. Buy some better quality cables. You'll spend more up front, but you'll be happier in the end.

This is the cheapest cable i found. The wire is fine, just the ends are cheap plastic and easily broken.But you can replace the ends yourself for like five bucks and i'm sure if you're careful it won't break. - Cat5 - Ethernet Cables - Cat5e - Networking Cables'

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Canon Printer Ink - canon ink, ip1800

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This cartridge was designed for one purpose... To keep you busy buying ink!! Most printers that uses this cartridge will also accept the PG-40 cartridge (double capacity) or the PG-50 cartridge (triple capacity). Whether you're buying factory new (O.E.M.) cartridges or refilled/recycled carts., do yourself a favor and pick the 40 or the 50 series carts. and get far more ink for only a little more than these!! The same goes for the color cartridge that mates with this one. Canon PG-30 Black Ink Cartridge (1899B002)

Can't give this product a good rating because there is NO INFORMATION on the carton OR the cartridge that tells us how much ink is in the cartridge.

I'm surprised that Amazon.com would advertise a product that has no weight and/or volume info on the package.

UPDATE -- The Canon MP470 is a GREAT Scanner-Printer-Copier -- BUT, I do believe it's an incurable inkaholic. That is to say that the Canon MP470 is to ink what the Hummer is to gasoline.

This sale was a bit misleading since it states under condition that this product is New. It is not, its a refilled cartridge which originally did not bother me, however, like many refilled cartridges, they dont last like a manufacturers sealed cartridge does. They do work in my printer with no issues, but normally cartridges last me approx. 2 1/2 - 3 weeks with my use, and the first one I used just ran out after less than 1 week. Even with a great low price, this was not a good deal for me. I will go back to the sealed manufacturers ink cartridges.

I used to order ink cartridges from office stores. I have two printers home.

I didn't realize that Amazon.com carries this kind of products. What a surprise! The price is much cheaper than office stores. From now on I will purchase ink cartridges from Amazon.com only.

Too expensive and runs out way to quick, I think they actually reduced the amount of ink in each cartridge, that or they dry out. Price does not fall Canon is a rip off, but better than others, if you can find cheaper Target is a good choice go for it, otherwise Amazon is best even if pricing is not competitive.

These cartridges do not last long. I get only a few pages from them when using for both text and photo printing. I normally like canon products, but this product (Printer and Cartridges) is pretty lousy.

The shipping and deliver process was fine. I don't know if its ink cartridges in general or just this brand, but they always seem to run out so quickly! Or at least the program starts telling you to buy new ink in no time. I'm stuck with it because of my printer, so at least the price isn't terrible (in my experience- compared to Dell.)

Exact ink cartridge I needed for the canon 2600. I looked all over the internet and this was the best price I can find. I like the brand name due to the chip that lets you know when the ink is running low. I'm very pleased! - Canon Ink - Ip1800 - Canon Printer - Ink Cartridge'

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