Tuesday 29 December 2009

Digital Frames - digital picture frame, accessories


Amazon's introductory prices for these NIX digital frames were enough in themselves to catch my attention. I started with the 7" model and, though my expectations were not high, sensed that the combination of the extra wide dimensions (necessitating constant repositioning of the frame) and lackluster resolution would result in my finding little if any use for the frame. NIX customer support was so helpful that I decided to stay with the brand but to move up to this 8" model. It's all the difference in the world and well worth the extra expense. First, the 4:3 dimensions of this frame assure that you can load it, start it, and forget it. No need to turn the frame on its long end to fill the frame for every vertically-oriented image. Even with auto rotation and split screen features, the extra wide (16:9) screens, or aspect ratios, of the lower-priced NIX and some of the other "stretched" frames introduce problems because of the different orientations of shots and the cropped or distorted shapes that frequently ensue upon tweaking an image to fill a frame. But there's more . . .



The picture of the 8" model, I'm convinced, has sharper definition and brighter, more pleasing colors--very close, if not equal, to a high-definition computer screen. Additionally, the slide show and transitions are performing more consistently, with the photos even showing more regularly in their correct--horizontal or vertical--orientation. And the size of the frame is such that a vertical photo, even though appearing in a frame that's slightly wider than it is high, does not look disproportionate. In fact, with this frame it's highly unlikely you'll turn the frame vertically to activate its "automatic orientation" feature. Finally, unlike the XO7B, which comes with a quick set-up sheet, the XO8A comes with a more informative and complete little booklet, including a trouble-shooting section (the instructions are perhaps less clear than those with the 7" model, but the frame is practically "plug and play," not requiring close examination of the manual. (If you do any tweaking, I'd recommend trying the automatic "crop" feature. It may reduce some of the area of your photos, but it won't distort or diminish size, consequently making it all the easier to keep the frame in a single, fixed position. I'm so satisfied with what this frame does for the photos taken with my Canon Elf (SD-780), I haven't even bothered to try out the video and music features. Frankly, they're not the reason I was in the market for a digital frame.



For either frame, it would undoubtedly be a good idea for many purchasers to order an inexpensive 2 GB flash card at the same time and to "dedicate" it exclusively for use in the frame (try to avoid the apparent "bundled" deal, which could cost you extra in postage. Instead, enter the item in "search" and order it from Amazon Prime, which offers a nice Kingston card for about five dollars). Finally, before calling or writing the company about a missing back-rest for this frame, notice that, unlike the 7" model (which employs a separate, detachable plastic piece), this 8" model has a handier, embedded telescoping silver rod. Simply use your thumbnail to pull it out of the back of the frame and you'll find it plenty sturdy for this lightweight frame.



Just a couple of caveats: First, the generally well-equipped audiophile is unlikely to make much use (if any) of the built in speakers and MP3 player. Second, the cost to the company of these added, perhaps mostly unused, features is likely reflected in the price. In that case, better the extra features were eliminated altogether or their expense devoted to the one feature that every user would certainly find most useful of all--a rechargeable battery, enabling cordless operation. These frames are currently undergoing rapid changes on the part of all manufacturers, so expect to see more cordless models, more onboard memory with convenient computer interfacing, and lower prices in the near future. But as anyone who has acquired any consumer technology in the last ten years knows all too well, such obsolescence goes with the territory (no longer is it a wise idea to spend a thousand or more on a TV set--these are not appreciating assets--in fact, quite the contrary).



RE: NIX Customer Support: I sent an e-mail with questions related to this model as well as a couple of others. The response was swift, extremely detailed, entirely personal (not an automated response), and very informative and helpful. (By contrast, Logitech offered to replace an entire keyboard with a bad key providing I e-mailed proof of purchase. I was extremely impressed and pleased, since I had hoped for, at most, a single replacement key. However, despite my 3 attempts to mail them my Amazon invoice--everything from a Jpeg to PDF to screen shot--I received the automatic response: "Your requested evidence of purchase is inadequate. Use a different format." If that's a company's version of "customer service," I'd rather receive service from another company, or no service at all, rather that repeatedly feel like someone is jerking my chain.)] NIX N' EASY X08B - 8 Inch Hi Resolution SVGA Digital Photo Frame - Photo, Video, Music, Splitscreen Option, Slim Design

I was looking for a digital frame for my husbands office and decided on the NIX x08A frame based on the affordable price. It was $10 dollars less than a Kodak digital photo frame (Kodak Easyshare P730m) with the added capability of playing videos and music.



Pros:

- Frame was delivered super fast (two days) and shipping was free.

- Setups between two frames is fairly easy when using a usb flash drive. The NIX does have a remote which helps to keep fingerprints off frame. The Kodak menu is a bit more sophisticated and pretty to look at.

- I like the built in frame stand on the NIX.

-Sound is decent when playing videos. Did not try playing music on this frame.



Cons:

-The screen quality was not as vibrant as the Kodak EasyShare. I tried adjusting the contrast and brightness but the Kodak frame was just superior straight out of box.

-The buttons on the back of frame is a bit sticky and I had to push really hard before it responded.

- USB flash drive not hidden by frame. I used a 1" flash drive and it was still visible from the front of frame.



Overall, the frame is decent for the price. - Nix - Digital Picture Frame - Accessories - Digital Photo Frame'


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Adhesives - hangers, command


I was delighted when I found this product having just moved w/ freshly painted walls. I followed the instructions to the letter and all was great for 1 month then my pictures began to fall off the walls. Nothing I hung was over the recommended weights. Out of 15 different wall hangings 8 have fallen off the wall. In the process the glass shattered on three of the frames, two decorative plates were broken beyond repair and my new hard wood floors were damaged and the paint on the walls has been chipped. It is going to be a rather expensive to pay for all the damage caused by this product not performing as advertised. My advice DO NOT PURCHASE. Command 17203 Small and Medium Picture Hanging Strips, 4 Small 8 Medium Sets of Strips

I used the strips and the picture fell off the wall and the glass broke. Another picture was up for 6 weeks, then with a little hot weather the picture fell off the wall. I used more strips than recommended for the weight of the picture. The only good thing was that they came off the wall fine. Can't believe the cost for something that doesn't work consistently. Would not take a chance with hanging anything of value.

These little strips are the coolest and easiest way to hang a picture that weighs 10 lbs or less. They go on easy, and are invisible to the eye. But the BEST part is that your picture will never shift and be crooked again...the plastic velcro-like loops hold the picture firmly in place (I always use one at the bottom) and you can slightly reposition them without having to move a nail, etc...just shift them around on the velcro-like pads. And finally, when I may want to change the picture or move it someplace else, I'll be able to remove the strips from the wall without damaging the paint, leaving a hole, etc. It doesn't get much better than that! Awesome product!

I WISH I could give this a good review because that would mean I would have spent my money wisely, alas, that is not the case. As stated by others, I followed the directions exactly and even added MORE strips than needed to no avail... Due to humidity, the strips lasted about 4 days. I was temped to add more strips because I so want it to work, but, if I did, I'd just be a fool and COMMAND Brand would be laughing all the way to the bank!!!



I care, so please, save your money and bite the bullet and hang your things the old fashion way :(

I too am unhappy with the 3m velcro strips. With thick plaster walls we thought this was the answer to our framed print needs however after following all directions correctly, and being initially thrilled with how nice everything looked, nearly one month to do the day that I hung them they started falling from the wall. First, my largest frame fell and the next day another fell. Both frames were cracked and glass broken. Even a small child's frame that weighs less than 1/2 pound suddenly fell from the wall last night. After reading the reviews and realizing that I am not the only one that has had problems with these strips I thought I would share my experience as well.



I will NOT trust my frames to these strips ever again and think that 3M should refund the cost of damaged frames/walls and floors from falling items.

I hung several pictures with these. Two fell off the wall. Shattered one expensive frame which landed on a desk that is now all scratched up. Will never use them again.

Applied them as directed, even used more than needed. I think is must be the humidity. Don't get your hopes up on this prodcut. Might work for posters but, not reliable for anything else.

We used these because we have an older house with plaster walls that are a pain to get secure holes in, and a bigger pain to patch. A 7.2 earthquake hit about 100 miles out, so when the shaking reached us, I'd guestimate it was probably at about a 6. Not a single picture fell. Need I say more?

I was very excited about this product because putting holes in my brand new condo walls just did not appeal to me. However, after following the directions EXACTLY and waiting 10 hours before attempting to hang my 3 pound picture, my picture came crashing to the ground, taking this 3M product and a piece of my premium wall paint with it. I've tried rehanging with this product 3 times now, and got the same result. Although I avoided adding a miniscule hole to my wall, I have instead a chunk of paint missing from my wall and a scratch on the floor where the picture landed. Maybe it's the type of paint on my wall that made it incompatible with the product, however, I didn't see anything about this in the instructions. I will not be buying this product again. I'm going back to old-fashioned nails.

These are awesome. In 1 hour I hung 45 pictures on my stairway and created a mural of family memories. I was astonished at how easy it was to use this product. All my frames were lightweight frames but with the proper requirements per weight according to the package I can see it working on heavier frames. It was easy to reposition when necessary and the only tool I found I needed was a level.I would highly recommend this product!!!!

I thought I'd take a moment to share my displeasure with your Command medium picture hanging strips. Following the directions to the letter, the picture frames stayed on the wall no longer than 10 hours. They are expensive and a waste of time and money. I thought this would be the answer to not having holes all over the walls, but instead they are making it necessary to hang pictures twice and now I'm out far too much money. Back to the drawing boards, 3M, this product sucks. - 3m - Pictures - Hangers - Command'


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Leather Bracelet


This leather bracelet looks good and is easy to adjust. The slide system is very clever. Leather is supple enough and is true leather. It is simple and perhaps paired with another bracelet would look even more special. Men's Brown Leather Braided Bracelet

I had been looking for a leather braided bracelet on ebay for a while and couldn't find one with the combination of price and style. That was until I found this one. I really like the color of the bracelet. It is handsome and natural. It brings a bit of character to one's self. It is easily to put on and to take off. This is a must buy.

I love this bracelet! It looks just like the picture in the listing. The bracelet is easily adjusted to fit almost any wrist, and it's comfortable to wear. It is also very durable. I'd definitely buy another one!

At it's very tightest it fits my wrist perfectly, and i have larger wrists for a female. The bracelet is very easy to take on and off and adjust. I've gotten it wet several times and the color has not faded or the texture has not changed. my only complaint is that the string hang down so they often drag in my food or through paint and such things, just keep that in mind when you are wearing it.

This bracelet looks exactly like it does in the photo. It is completely adjustable by pulling the ends apart and then pulling one of the strings to tighten. I have a small wrist, and I was able to tighten this bracelet enough to fit comfortably. It is chunkier than some of the other bracelets I've recently ordered, but I'm very happy with it.

I dont recall what I paid for it but it was worth it. Adjusts with a pull string that is sturdy and can fit any wrist and the pull string keeps the diameter in place meaning it doesnt get larger thru loosening when wearing it. the leather has that real natural look without any finishing or sheen. Good quality construction.'


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Facebook - amazon gift card, gift card


This is the most fun gift,and it it totally easy. My sister found her gift card among her many birthday messages and she loved it. I ordered it weeks ahead of time, and Amazon charges it 2 days before the post date you choose. thanks Amazon for a great fun gift idea. Amazon.com Gift Card - Facebook Delivery

The convenience is great. I've used them in the past and will continue to use them.



I'd love to see some feedback from Amazon when a gift card is initially used. This would give me confirmation that the card is getting used and not lost.

I loved being able to buy something and post it on my friends page with a little message!!! It's a way to say happy b-day on her page, while already giving her a gift - free of hassle!!!! I am definitely doing this again!

I sent an Amazon gift card via facebook. I was a little apprehensive about doing so. It ended working out great. I was able to get my friends gift to her on time and I didn't have to worry about it being in an email that could get put into spam mail. The only thing that would make it better is if I received an email from Amazon telling me the card had received/viewed and when it was redeemed. This was a great option for me and my friend loved receiving it.

My grandchildren grow so fast and it is hard to keep up with their likes and dislikes. I feel real comfortable giving my 14-year old grandson a Amazon gift card because of all the great things Amazon offers. I especially like all the electronics because he is a budding "techie". He also likes to read and I know that he will be easily able to find something he likes at Amazon. Thank goodness for Amazon gift cards!

In the past six months, I have ordered several Amazon gift cards by various methods: e-mail, Facebook and self-printed. They not only make a great last-minute gift, but enable me to check their status. I have done so on three occasions, and each time have had a pleasant result. I was able to monitor their status. The first one was sent as a graduation gift via e-mail. When it was not redeemed for several weeks, I contacted the graduate to remind him. He had not checked that particular e-mail account in some time. He opened the e-mail and redeemed the card the next day. I sent the other two via Facebook, one for a wedding and the other for a 21st birthday. In both cases, the recipients had misfiled the message. I was able to help the bride figure hers out, but I had to re-send the card for the new adult. In that case, the old card was automatically voided and the new card was quickly redeemed. In all cases, happy recipients, with problems easily and safely corrected.

This is the third gift card I have purchased and love the convenience of giving gifts this way. One was a baby gift and two were for Birthdays. All out of state. It sure beats buying something someone does not need. They have the opportunity to shop on Amazon for anything they need or want. The best thing is they get the card immediately, no wrapping or shipping, taxes or other fees. It is an exceptional way to purchase gifts and because Amazon gives access to so many retailers my recipients have endless choices! The only thing that could make this a better way of shopping is to remind the recipient of the card if it hasen't been redeemed in a reasonable amount of time. I have a busy son in Chicago who is always traveling for business he did forget to redeem his card. Thank you Amazon! Janie Bifulco - Gift Card - Gift Cards - Easy - Amazon Gift Card'


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Tiger Claw - kick, tiger claw


As someone who practiced Tae Kwon Do for ten years, I've gotten to use a lot of these. For about $20, this item was reasonably priced and well-constructed (though I've only used it for about sixty solid kicks so far). It makes a pretty loud sound when you give it a good kick, which is satisfying. Clap Kicker Target

My children, who have been in taekwondo for a year, love the kickers. I am very impressed with the quality of the product and also with the speed in which they arrived.The boys teacher loved the kickers so much, we gave him one. Now, we need more kickers and will buy the same ones!!!

My boyfriend never understood the concept of these. Says I could just kick a tennis racket I'd get at Wal Mart for $5. I use the clapper frequently. It's well cushioned, sturdy, and nicely built. Plus the design is pretty cool. It give a satisfying "POP" with each kick and it absorbs impact well.



My boyfriend insisted on tennis racket. His first attempt at this had me only moments later driving him to the doctor with two broken toes, bruised bones on top of his foot, and split toe nails.





Yup.





Love my clapper!!

IT was inexpensive and it works OK. Stitching and construction seems to be solid. We have used a few times. It serves the intended purpose as a kicking target to hold for someone and makes a noise when hit. I would buy again.

Well made. The only thing wrong with it is the stupid plastic cups attached to the inside. They do not work. I am about to cut them off. Very poor design. They should have made them flat. If so, they would have made more contact and a better sound. As is, the cups do not line up perfectly and therefore serve no purpose but to keep the pads separated. I believe this will cause the unit to break down more rapidly. Best thing to do is cut them off if you buy this so that you will get longer use out of the target. - Mixed Martial Arts - Target - Tiger Claw - Kick'


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Screwdriver


I'm a 67 year old grandmother who gets pretty involved in do-it-yourself projects, everything from rewiring a lamp to putting in a new wainscoated bathroom. This screwdriver is a godsend. I always have the right bit now to do almost all jobs without having to search around for a particular screwdriver, so I no longer have all those different drivers cluttering up my toolbox. At my age, with a bit of arthritis starting to effect me, this driver is much easier on my wrist because I don't have to continuously change my grasp. The only drawback, and it is a minor one, is that the bits are sometimes a bit difficult to remove from the storage handle, again, a result of the arthritis, I'm sure. All in all, This driver is a very good value for the non-professional. It is now the only screwdriver I use. Stanley 69-189 Ratcheting Multi-Bit Screwdriver

PROS:

-Smooth ratcheting action

-Handle stores 1/4" hex bits 8 bits (6 are included)

-Tip is magnetic and has a locking collar

-Easy to change ratcheting direction with the "ring" in the middle of the driver



CONS:

-None so far :)

I got this ratcheting screwdriver because of the size and the price. I'd always used my friend's craftsman (which has the same clk/ccw selection apparatus) and I loved it, but I wasn't willing to shell out 30 bucks for ascrewdriver. This driver rocks my socks off! the handle fits my hand perfectly, the shaft length is great (everything else on amazon in this price range seemed too short), and the magnetic bit locking system works so well... it actually locks the bits in!



The bits that coms with the driver are the same quality as the dewalt bits that I've got, and the handle actually stores up to 8 bits internally (so you can add some of your own as this only comes with 6). I actually like this better than the craftsman, and think it's going to make the greatest stocking stuffer this coming christmas.



Bottom line: If you're looking for a ratcheting screwdriver, this is the one for you. It's durable, functional and comfortable!

This is a good all purpose ratcheting screwdriver and all that but the product description misled me. While the end of the screwdriver has a magnetic locking mechanism to hold the bits, that's where the magnetism ends. The magnet is not strong enough to magnetize the bit so the bits will not hold a screw. It's too bad for me because I wasn't interested in the ratcheting function as much as I was in getting a magnetic screwdriver with multiple bits. If this is what you're looking for, look elsewhere.

This screwdriver is excellently designed

- never lose a bit, they all fit inside in the base

- easy to add remove bits

- ratchets, so easy to use



The only issues I had with it was it took me a few second to figure out how to open the base that stores the bit (twist and when the marks line up, pull)



I have not put this to extensive use, so I cannot make claims to its durability, but apart from that I can highly recommend it.

This was to replace my old ratcheting screwdriver. I've used it nearly every day for the last month. It is great for finishing up jobs when your power drill just won't quite get the screw in all the way.

Tips lock in place and store neatly in the handle, they are't all tossed in, in a mess. There are slots for them. Great product, it replaces several screwdrivers for those toolboxes that are tight on space.'


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Inflatable Boats


My wife and I have used our Advanced Elements Lagoon 2 (called DragonFly 2 when we purchased it) for three years. It was one of the best purchases of outdoor equipment that we have ever made. Don't listen to snobs who put down inflatable kayaks. Unless you are doing serious treks that require cargo, the Lagoon or Lagoon 2 is all you need. My wife and I have used it at least 100 times in the ocean and on lakes throughout the Pacific Northwest. It is light, easy to inflate, durable and fun. Best of all it is very easy to store as it folds up into its own suitcase-size carrying case. And Advanced Elements customer service has been great whenever we have had problems. Only disadvantage versus other kayaks is that it could track a little better, particularly when it is new and the fin does not lay totally flat, and limited onboard storage space. But otherwise, we love it.

Get one and have some fun! Advanced Elements Lagoon 2 Person Inflatable Kayak

After returning a tadem kayak from another manufacture I was worried this too wouldn't be sturdy or durable. I am proud to say that I was wrong, very wrong. I purchased this kayak after reading some other reviews and for the price point - had it shipped to a friend in Hawaii 2 months befrore we even got there (ordered early so the product was in stock). My husband and I used this kayak in the ocean every day for the past 2 months! We were in calm seas, semi-rough seas, 6 ft. swells and in some pretty good surf, not to mention some really shallow spots too. We are both very impressed with the durability and sturdiness of this kayak. It was awesome and lightwieght to carry every day back and forth to the beach. I also paddled solo from both the rear seat and the front seat - it tracks through the water great - it isn't tippy like hard kayaks - we even went snorkeling right out of it and getting back in was easy. There is ample leg room and the seats are quite comfortable. This was the best purchase we made and really made our vacation enjoyable!!!!

Finally had the chance to take her out for a spin. Tracking was good, she was fairly fast and I was extremely impressed overall. I did have to wait nearly 15 minutes for a metal boat to clear the launch to get her out of the water...again Was worth the money and I am taking her back out tomorrow!'


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Wired Headsets - pre, headphones


First let me say that I have been using my iPod for years listening to music regularly while I workout. So when I got my Palm Pre, it was nice to be able to retire my iPod Classic and go with my more compact (always on me anyway) Smartphone as my primary mp3 player. At the time, I had some slightly modified factory iPod headsets (I put Griffin EarJams on them) which I had been using for years and loved up to that point (or so I thought).



Now when I first started using the Palm Pre and its factory headset I remember thinking right away that it had a pretty good sound quality. When I compared that sound to my Griffin EarJam modified iPod factory headset, there was no comparison. I immediately retired my iPod faithfuls and moved forward with the Palm Pre factory headset.



Well unfortunately my Palm Pre headset eventually gave out on me (probably due to a little to much rough housing on my part). Having no choice I went back to an Apple headset once again. Only this time opting for a 2nd generation factory iPhone headset so I could still control my calls and my music on my Palm Pre. I again immediately noticed a difference in sound quality. Only this time is was a downgrade. Since it had been a couple weeks since I broke my Palm Pre headset I didn't realize how much of a negative change it was, so I eventually became acceptant of the difference in sound quality.



Still feeling a little dissatisfied with the sound, but mostly because I hated walking around looking like one of Apple's minions (despite the fact I use a Mac) with their white earbuds dangling from my ears, and also hating that the white headset didn't match my black Palm Pre smartphone (I'm anal that way :-), I wandered in a couple Sprint stores to see if I could finagle a replacement for my original Palm Pre factory set.



NO LUCK OF COURSE :-( And I even gave them my best bees and honey routine :-).



Eventually one of the ears on my iPhone substitutes went out which only complicated my issue further. At which point I went on a quest through a myriad of replacement headsets only to find myself longing for a replacement for my original Palm Pre headset because of some now vague and faded memory I had of their "somewhat better" sound quality. I visited several more Sprint stores trying to acquire a complimentary replacement to no avail. After several stints with several different headsets that sinking feeling that I was missing something, and that my music just wasn't moving me the same way it use to remained.



Then I found these replacements on Amazon! Based on the price, I was a little skeptical as to whether they would be the genuine Palm Pre originals, but I ordered two pair anyway. Not only were they definitely the Palm Pre originals (complete with the perfectly placed microphone/controller button and the magnetic earbuds), but my music once again came to life with a sound quality I hadn't heard in months. I have to admit, I never truly realized initially how good they actually are! I can hear every ping of every cymbal, the lingering tone of every piano note, the crisp ambiance of every violin, and the thud of every bass beat! These things sound truly amazing! It took my experience without them to really appreciate the overall quality of the build and the sound!



!!!!!!!!THESE ARE THE BEST DAMN HEADPHONES UNDER $50 BAR NONE!!!!!!!!



Now maybe I haven't experienced any of the high-end headsets and don't know what the quality of sound is at that end of the spectrum, but I certainly am an avid music listener with a very diverse taste in the types of music I enjoy. So I certainly have an awareness of and fondness for good sound quality. That said, if you are the average listener who like me believes that my HEADSET SHOULD NOT HAVE TO COST MORE THAN MY DAMN PHONE TO SOUND GOOD and is just looking for some great sound at a realistic cost (in this case it's a steal actually).



BUY THESE IMMEDIATELY!!!



And ur Welcome! (No need to thank me later :-)! Palm Stereo Headset for Palm Pixi and Palm Pre

THese headphones are a pleasure to use. The microphone is so discrete, but gives a very clear and reliable performance. No one has ever detected in phone conversations that I was using an external microphone. They have always told me the sound was fine. Listening through the headset to music is a pleasure - the stero efffect is good. Could not ask for better nor more at the competitive price of obtainment! I am very pleased and happy with the product and vendor.

These are the headphones that come stock with a Palm Pre. When I bought my Pre, I didn't even look at these headphones, expecting them to be the typical low-quality cheapies usually bundled with phones/mp3 players. After reading someone's comments in a Pre forum, I decided to give them a try, and I was instantly impressed. The sound quality is great for listening to music, which is what I was chiefly interested in. In addition, the one button allows the user to answer calls, pause and resume tracks, and skip to the next track (by double-clicking). The mic must be good, since I haven't heard any complaints from the other end of my phone calls. The only thing lacking is a volume control, but if you're using it with your Pre, at least you can use its external volume buttons. I'd highly recommend these if you're looking for a bang-for-the-buck high quality earbud headset.

These headphones are a great value! I use them every day. I use them at night when I go to bed so I don't bother my wife. I have had 3 other type of earbuds which have fallen apart in a couple months of use. I paid less than $5 for these and that was SHIPPED! I also use these in the car to talk on the phone. To be clear I only use 1 in my ear. I also use them in the car when my kids want listen to their music on the radio. The BEST part feature of these earbuds is the little inline button. I can use it when I listen to music on my smart phone. One click and I pause the music player. Two clicks and it skips to the next song. They even work with the Android music player.



I'm not really sure if it's great audio or not. I've never really compared them to anything else. My only small complaint would be the microphone isn't very noise canceling. But the product never says that it is. When I'm on the treadmill I can talk on the phone just fine.



Overall the construction of these earbuds are excellent. They are so inexpensive I purchased 2 more pair. For the price I would highly recommended buying at least 2! To save on shipping by 4 and give 2 away as gifts. - Headphones - Pre - Great Deal - Wired Headsets'


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Dust Collector Accessories


These gates clog often for me. Since the blast door is contained, chips get jammed into the slot and they keep the door from closing completely. Since these doors cannot be disassembled, they are difficult to clean. Woodstock W1007 4-Inch Blast Gate for Use with Vacuum/Dust Collectors

These are junk. I bought 7 of these blast gates and while installing them, four of them came apart. I was not rough with them. Bad glue job or maybe poor glue, but in order to use them, I drilled all four corners and bolted them together. Now I find out they clog very quickly. DO NOT WASTE YOUR MONEY for these blast gates.'


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Laptop Messenger Bag - laptop bag, 24


Pros:

Simple, compact design

Good organization pockets

Weatherproof lining

Quick access pocket

Sewn in shoulder strap for good stability

Small size is great for 13" MacBook Pro



Cons:

Velcro closure

No grab strap

No laptop sleeve



I was looking for a bag to haul my MacBook Pro 13" and work papers to and from my work. I wanted something compact, light, and comfortable and in a fairly conservative color. The small Timbuk2 Classic fit the bill. I really like this bag, although there are a few additional features I wish it had. I tried out this bag as well as the Timbuk2 D-lux, Timbuk2 Commuter, and Patagonia Half Mass in a local store before deciding on the small Timbuk2 classic.





===========PROS===========

1. Design. Simple bag. Weather proof lining. Organization pockets on inside for your iPod, phone, keys, pens, etc. Has a quick release extension to ease getting it on, but I don't find that I every need to use it with the small bag. adding it



2. Size. The small Timbuk2 is the perfect width for a MacBook Pro 13" and 8.5x11 inch papers without a lot of extra room on the sides for things to jostle around or get lost in the bottom. There isn't much extra room after putting in a laptop and few textbooks, but I found that the weight of the full small bag is about as much as I would want to carry in a messenger bag that puts most of the weight on one shoulder. The medium sized bag seemed to be a big step up in size and was too bulky for me. For days when I need more room, like for workout clothes, I just bring a second bag rather than carry around extra room with me every day. (If you have large bulky, but relatively light, items to carry around then you may want the medium or large bag.)



3. Neapolitan Pocket. So handy to have a pocket you can access without opening the bag. Enough said.



4. Divider. A pleasant surprise here. I was disappointed that the divider was not suitable for my laptop (see below) and had considered cutting the darn thing out of the bag. However, now I find myself using it all the time! It is a great for storing papers/reports so they are both protected and easily accessible. Sit down on the subway...pull out a report. Super!



5. The Shoulder Strap. The strap sewn in along both sides of the bag and is not removable. Having the sturdy wide strap sewn gives the bag a lot of stability. Bags with straps that clip on, swivel and pivot at the point of attachment. This bag doesn't wobble like that.





===========CONS===========

1. Velcro. The Timbuk2 bag has both clips and velcro for securing the flap. I hate the velcro. It is unnecessary because it already has clips, but worse it is noisy. I am reluctant to open the bag during a meeting because of the loud rIIIIpping sound it will create. There is no discrete way to open this bag. (Note: The velcro closure could be negated covering it with a velcro hook strip which I will do at some point.)



2. No grab strap. Other than the shoulder strap, there is no handle on the bag. I often find myself grabbing for a handle on the top of the bag which doesn't exist. You can get a grab handle if you build a custom Timbuk2 bag on their website, but you pay twice as much for the bag.



3. No laptop sleeve. Although the bag has a built-in divider which fits the MacBook Pro perfectly, only the inside side is padded (see my video). There is no padding on the outside or bottom of the divider. This means that if you set down your bag hard on the floor, you run the risk of damaging your laptop. I just use my existing neoprene sleeve with my laptop. It is too bulky to fit into the divider, but is quite secure in the main compartment of the bag. (Note: the D-Lux version does have a padded laptop sleeve. See my discussion on other bags below for why it didn't work for me)







===========Other bags I considered===========

Timbuk2 D-Lux: It has a padded laptop sleeve (although I wasn't impressed by the padding at the bottom of the sleeve), but it doesn't come in black which was a deal breaker for me. I also didn't like the modular organization system which attaches via velcro to the inside of the bag; the pockets weren't as securely attached to the bag which makes getting things in and out of the pockets more difficult.



Patagonia: What I really liked about this bag was that the padded laptop sleeve does not touch the bottom of the bag, the sleeve was a bit bulky and was oddly attached to the inside of the bag. Also the construction of the bag didn't feel as solid.



Timbuk2 Commuter: A bigger bag than the small Timbuk2 Classic, but with more functionality. It has a cool laptop case that flips out to be TSA compliant (i.e. you don't have to take the laptop out of the bag). It also has a grab handle (yeah!) and no velcro on the flap. It was 2nd on my list, but in the end I decided it was bigger than necessary for my daily commute. The laptop case is made to fit a 15" laptop although it my 13" didn't move around too much. I didn't like the detachable shoulder strap with swivel straps as much; I prefer the sewn in shoulder strap of the Timbuk2 Classic. However, this would be a great bag for airline travel as if gives a little more room than the Timbuk2 Classic and the TSA compliant laptop compartment. I may end up buying this as a second bag for traveling.







If you appreciate this review, let me know with your vote below. Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Bag, Gunmetal/Gunmetal/Rev Red, Medium

This bag arrived on my doorstep last week, and since then I have been carrying it to and from work every day. I was so happy I found this color in a size Small (it's sold out all over the internet and more expensive on the direct brand's website). I purchased this looking for a bag that would a) not ruin my back due the weight and b) fit my netbook and other graduate-school items such as textbooks, portable hard drive, etc. First of all, I can fit all of my textbooks, netbook, papers, cords, and other little things I used to keep in my purse, with enough room to shove my water bottle in on the side. When it rains, which it has several times this week, the water is completely repelled by the awesome "ballistic" material. When it stops raining, however, I can loosen both of the straps on the front flap and slide my umbrella perfectly along the bottom of the bag, pulling the straps a bit to make the fit tighter.

With that said, I do think it's a slightly confusing bag! So many pockets and compartments, I may have to make some labels to attached to each so I remember where I put things! Also, I would like an outer pocket for a water bottle of some sort. But, since my bottle doesn't leak, I can put it inside.

I am actually happy it does not come with a laptop compartment. The Timbuk2 Freestyle netbook bag could not even fit my netbook (which is slightly larger, at 11.6 inches) because of its precisely-measured compartment. This bag in a size Small does the trick and fits it perfectly, even with a sleeve I previously purchased on it.

As some reviewers have noted, there is no grab strap. However, just shorted the strap so it lays flat against the top of the bag, tuck the extra strap material into the bag, and there's your shorter "grab" strap, should you need it. - 24 - Laptop Bag - Canvas - Bag'


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Acne Control - acne, skin care


I am very grateful for this skin treatment regimen. I think that Dan has the right ideas when it comes to ridding your face of acne. The gentle cleanser and the benzoyl peroxide included with this kit are top notch. You will not find another benzoyl peroxide that comes even close to this product. The cleanser is very similar to Cetaphil's skin cleanser.



I will say, however, that the moisturizer included with this kit is absolutely horrible. It reacts with the BP treatment and serves to burn and irritate your skin. If anything, it will cause more acne breakouts rather than remedy them. It is also very greasy and leaves skin shiny.



For this reason alone, I cannot recommend purchasing this starter kit. A better choice would be to purchase a large bottle of the treatment (which is unrivaled) and possibly a large bottle of the cleanser (but Cetaphil or something similar would be equally good). Find another moisturizer! If you do, let me know what you find. I use Key's Soap RX Sunscreen for my AM moisturizer and it works great. Still looking for a good evening moisturizer that is somewhat similar (cream and non-greasy, and of course something that doesn't burn my face). The Regimen: Complete Acne.org Treatment Kit

i bought this package because i tried the cleanser at a friend's house and really liked it. i am amazed at how quickly and thoroughly the regimen works to clear up my skin. as a teen, i never had acne (and probably took a little too much pride in that) and karma sent me a healthy dose of those under-the-skin, red welty zits that look almost like bugbites now that i'm in my 30s. literally, within 2 or 3 days of using these products, my skin had cleared up. two things to be aware of---1. follow the directions on the website and work up to the full dosage of benzoyl peroxide to avoid dry, burning, flaking skin and 2. don't miss out on an evening/morning--i've found if i skip even one night i will have a bit of a breakout the next day. oh and one last thing---the company has great customer service; i emailed about a broken pump and a new one was on my doorstep two days later.

I purchased this kit because I was sick of the spotty results I was getting with Proactiv, plus the high cost for mediocre results. I am not slamming Proactiv, in fact I still use all the leftover "repairing lotion" as my BP treatment, I just wasn't satisfied with my continued breakouts on that system. So, I decided to give the [...] regimine a shot, and I haven't regretted that choice once in the 3 weeks I've been using it. I have followed the process to the letter (although I started with more benzoyl peroxide because I had been using Proactiv for a few years), and the process has been working exactly as set out on the website. The second week of use I developed one nodule (which had been surfacing before I started the regimine) and another pimple. Now, after the third week, all acne has healed, no new pimples are forming, and my scarring is slowly beginning to fade. I actually have hope again that my skin will be clear and glowing -- Hope I had lost during my years of struggling with acne while using Proactiv.



I also purchased the 10% AHA lotion, because in addition to my pimples I am getting wrinkles. Ah, the joys of aging gracefully... The combination of the normal [...] regimine day and night, with the replacement of AHA for my night time moisturizer has made such a dramatic difference.



Bottom line: This works, it costs roughly the same as Proactiv but you get much larger quantities, and if you follow the regimine you won't look back. I recommend this product very highly for anyone with mild to severe acne.

These products really do work - at least for me. I've been using them for three months now and they work way better than the prescription topical treatments prescribed by my dermatologist. Things to know: 1) It takes a couple of weeks to really get going. I still had a couple of pimples come in during that period. 2) You need to couple these products with the regimen, it will help. 3) They won't stop every single pimple forever, you might get one from time to time - especially if you don't use the products or follow the regimen. However, I've noticed that if I do get one, they heal faster and better than before. 4) The moisturizer does not have sunscreen in it, but it is the best I've ever used. It's not oily and soaks right in. Just my two cents - I don't normally leave reviews, but I've been dealing with acne for almost 20 years now, so since I've found something that has worked, (at least so far), I figured that other people might benefit from what has worked for me. Good luck!

I have tried everything; antibiotics (four different types!), Accutane, Clearasil products, Proactive, Salacylic Acid, herbal systems, Retin-A, special diets, but nothing worked for very long, and never without occasional or frequent breakouts. Plus, I have really bad cystic type acne on my face, back and neck and somedays it's monster-like. My skin has been super oily up until now. I could wash it and it would be shiny again in half an hour. People always asked, "why are you sweating?", and I wasn't! Then I was using 10% Benezoyl Peroxide and my skin would look like an alligator's. I couldn't balance it out.

Following this routine, my acne was GONE in a week! GONE! I would not have believed it had it not happened to me. Also, this routine makes my skin look healthier than I ever remember it being. The oil production is slowing way down too, I didn't know this was possible. This guy who came up with this is right on! My dermatologists haven't figured this out and it really raises questions in my mind why DOCTORS who gave me all that medicine, with all their bad side effects, can't figure out: Gentle cleaning, Benzoyl Peroxide (2.5%) twice a day, non-comodegenic moisturizers, and Jojoba Oil! This system will ELIMINATE your acne and make the damage done by it start to heal, inside and out. Thank you to the guy who worked out this system! - Skin Care - Acne - Pimple - Acne Treatment'


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Acne Control - acne, skin care pimple Acne Control - acne, skin care