Guy Low Price Electronic

Friday, 29 July 2011

Upconverting Dvd Players - panasonic, netflix

I have been waiting for this Blu-ray player since it was announced in January, bought this to use with my Panasonic VIERA TV set. VIERA link is the main reason I bought this -- it's for our exercise room, and my wife hates all the remotes. Great as a basic DVD/blu-ray player. Pop in a DVD, TV turns on, and sets the correct input. Also, one button selection of Netflix works great, and the new Netflix interface includes search. On screen interface is also very nice and easy to use. As will all new players, only has HDMI and composite video connectors, but single HDMI for video and audio is nice and is required for VIERA link.

Only reason for the 4 stars is DLNA (which in not just an issue with this device). Writing this in the hopes of saving at least one person the hours I spent setting this up. First, with my Windows 7 PC, the device was able to see and play the Windows Media Center .wtv files (I have a TV tuner card in my PC), so you can record shows on your PC and watch them on this player in another room. Compatibility with .wtv files was not mentioned in the manual, nor by Panasonic online support. Panasonic support also said that .mkv files would only play via a disk or the usb, but some of my .mkv files on my PC did play using DLNA (for some reason, only the files with an aspect ratio of 1024X576 or higher will play). Decided I needed a media server.

After trying Tversity, Playon, and Serviio, none of which would work with the DMP-BD75, I installed Mezzmo on my PC. Worked like a champ! The player sees all the files on my PC and they play flawlessly over my home network.

Remote will only control TV volume, power, and input, so if you switch to TV, you have to switch remotes. Don't know why in TV mode the number keys couldn't function to enter a channel number. Still, the remote will control all disc functions, Netflix, and all my video files via DLNA. One thing with the remote and VIERA link, the large power button turns on the player and will also turn on the TV at the same time. However, when you power down, using the large power button only turns off the player (which does make sense, you may want to leave the TV on). There is a second power button for the TV. If you turn off that button, both with shut down.

Overall, for just under $100 you can't go wrong. And if you aren't interested in DLNA or 3D, then this would be a 5 star player. Panasonic DMP-BD75 Ultra-Fast Booting Blu-ray Disc Player

I've had this Bd75 for about a month now. When I first received it , I had problems. I mainly got this unit so I could stream Netflix movies, and wanted to have a Blu-ray player to connect to my Panasonic TC-L42U22 1080p LCD TV.

When the player chose to work, I was overwhelmed by the fantastic picture quality of this TV/Blu-ray combo. But, the Bd75 had bugs, and if you're like me, if something doesn't work as it should right out of the box, chances are things are only going to get worse.

I decided that the Bd75 was so good at streaming Netflix movies that I would keep it, bugs and all.

Now for the really good news. I turned the unit on a few days ago, and had a on-screen message that there was a firmware update available. Version 1.19 I let it download. It restarts itself after the download, and since then, NO bugs, freeze-ups, or any other problems.

If this firmware update does its job, then this Bd75 player will be a steal at the $99.00 it sells for.

Panasonic says this player won't support Amazon Video on Demand as it does not have VIERA Cast capability. There is currently no firmware update and they told me they don't expect to add this feature in the future either. It does support Netflix streaming.

I have since returned the DMP-BD75 and purchased a Panasonic DMP-BD65 with VIERA Cast. The DMP-BD65 works great and streams Amazon Video on Demand.

I'm not sure that a device that did not work out of the box deserves 4 stars but since it is 2011 and manufacturers can fairly rely on consumers having access to a hard-wired internet connection (ethernet cable, not wireless), I guess having to download the most current software is not reason enough to fail this device. When I first hooked up this Panasonic BlueRay with an HDMI cable, there was a crazy loud clicking noise instead of the expected audio. A quick read of the manual had me hooking this up to my Cisco Router and getting the most current download. Then it was smooth sailing and everything worked seamlessly. So, if you have some competence with your network then you should be fine - otherwise you might want to skip this item.

I've had this blu-ray player for a couple weeks now. Setup was quick and easy. Haven't tried DLNA yet, but Cinemanow, Vudu all work great. Streamed a hi-def episode of Stargate Atlantis from Netflix - AWESOME!! Another 5 Star product from Panasonic.

Firstly, I should state that I have extensive experience in AV as well as computer networking so this is not an issue of me not knowing what I am doing.

I purchased this unit after having excellent experiences with previous Panasonic BDP's. I've used many from the DMP-BD30 through to the BD100's and they've mostly been solid products. Unfortunately Panasonic seems to have let this one out of the gates too soon. The unit is nice and small, boots quickly but unfortunately has major issues with its network card and Internet connectivity in general. I have tried two different units and unfortunately both suffered from the same issue. The "easy network setup" says everything is working properly then I can only connect to netflix through this device about half the time (Netflix works fine when connecting through my Samsung TV). When trying to perform a firmware update, it will not connect at all. Panasonic support in Canada is atrocious and I cannot seem to find out for the life of me what the latest firmware version is (the players were both running v1.09). A search of their site shows that there are no downloads for the unit. I have ruled out it being an issue with my network as everything else works fine on it (including my Samsung player), I have completed extensive network tests and I have also tried this unit at a friends house with the same results. Hopefully this is a bug in the firmware and Panasonic is able to remedy this quickly. Until then, make sure you are able to easily return it if an issue arises! - Netflix - Blu-ray - 1080p - Panasonic'

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Cordless Rotary Tools - multitool, cordless rotary tools

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I've used Dremel tools for over 15 years now. I've mainly stuck with the corded ones, as the battery-powered versions tended to run out of charge quickly, had less RPM, were generally heavier and usually had a lot less torque.The lithium version has none of these drawbacks. Because there's no cord it's more comfortable to hold (and much more convenient to use!), about the same weight as a corded model, and has plenty of RPMs and torque. Battery lifetimes are very good, and the "fuel gauge" seems to be reasonably accurate. (Exactly how long a charge will last depends greatly on what you're using it for--working on balsa wood uses a lot less power than, say, grinding metal.)Battery charge times are quite short, about three hours to charge a completely empty battery. (But thanks to a "smart charger" it should only take a few minutes to charge it after a typical job.) An added bonus is that lithium batteries hold their charges practically forever, so there's no need to "trickle charge" them; just charge it back up after you're done with it and put it away, and it'll be ready to use the next time you need it.The only nit I've found so far is the need to remove the battery to charge it. (This is probably for safety's sake.) It'd be slightly more convenient to just put the whole unit in the charger after use, but since it doesn't need charging that often this is really minor.I'd consider this to be an entirely practical replacement for a corded Dremel. For everything I use my Dremel for (mostly small models plus the occasional home repair task) this one seems more than adequate. It's a sturdy unit that should last a long time.My one concern about lifetime is how long the lithium battery will last; only time will tell. Dremel 8000-03 10.8-Volt Lithium Ion Cordless Rotary Tool

I've been using Dremels for a long time and always wanted a decent cordless. With the advent of decent cordless power tools (the first one that I had that was actually useful for something was an 18 volt DeWalt drill that went right through stuff my corded drills wouldn't touch, but that's another story) I've been waiting for Dremel to come out with a good cordless.I've been hesitant about the earlier cordless Dremels but this one looks like "it".So far it's done everything I've asked it to do but I haven't asked it to do much--I got it specifically to deal with a piece of acrylic that my cordless Rotozip melted instead of cutting--I figured the adjustable speed on the Dremel would take care of that and was right.Just an aside about stalling--if you're stalling a Dremel then it's time to take a good hard look at a Rotozip, which, if you've never played with one, is kind of a Dremel on steroids--Dremel has an equivalent, the "Advantage", but only the one model and not cordless.The lack of a provision to charge the battery with the tool attached is just carrying through the current practice with cordless tools--it's assumed that one will have two batteries, one on the tool and one on charge if this is an issue. There's space in the case for a second battery.A "gotcha" to be aware of with the lithium ion batteries, always store them charged--if they self-discharge below a certain point a protective circuit kicks in and they disable themselves--this is a safety issue--trying to recharge a lithium ion battery that is discharged below a certain point can result in an explosion (I'm not talking about a little spill--exploding lithium batteries in emergency-locator transmitters have brought down light aircraft).The bundled accessories are, near as I can figure it:Aluminum oxide stone #932 and #8193Silicon carbide stone #84922Aluminum oxide abrasive wheel #5412 rubber polishing wheels #4253 Large felt polishing wheels #4295 Small felt polishing wheels #4141 cutter, looks like a #1811 drill bit, #1501 Mandrel #401 (for felt pads etc)1 Mandrel #402 (for sanding disks, cutoff wheels etc)Sanding cylinder mandrels 1/4" and 1/2"4 80 grit 1/2" sanding cylinders3 120 grit 1/2" sanding cylinders4 80 grit 1/4" sanding cylinders3 120 grit 1/4" sanding cylinders11 sanding disks17 cutoff wheels, 3 are thicker than the others, the others are in two containers of 10 and 4 but can't tell any difference between them.1 wrench with screwdriver tip that fits screws on mandrels1 case with a good deal of unused storage even after all the accessories are stored.

Mine is utilized for robotics projects--it finds a lot of uses with metal. I also bought the press accessory with it. This little accessory helps me make straight cuts and drill holes.I'm telling you, I use this thing constantly and it works like a champ! It is powerful enough for me to cut all my brass and aluminum with the precision of that of a doctor. For as handy as this tool is--I'd pay twice as much to get one if need be. I've had mine for 5 months too.One HUGE word of advice. WEAR SAFETY GOGGLES! I know this may sound lame, but it saved my @ss!!! When cutting some tubing, my disk exploded at full RPM's and the shrapnel hit me in the goggles. (Of course I had my fat head over top of it while I was cutting) Just be careful. The tool is A+, but the little thing could be dangerous if you slack on the safety.

I bought one of these at a local brick & mortar store for a project I'm working on. I am impressed with the power of the device and it is a really neat tool, but unfortunatley I've already had to return two of them for a defective speed control. While using it, the first one all of a sudden just jumped up to full speed and stayed there regardless of where the speed control was set. In other words, it was no longer variable. The second one did the same thing. Since I saw replacement brushes available for their tools (and therefore they must consider it somewhat user serviceable) I decided to open it up and see what it looked like inside. One of the transistors on the circuit board had gotten warm enough to melt the solder and shorted out two of the pins on the transistor. I'm on my third one now (just returned them at the store) and I first bought one about 2-1/2 weeks ago. Great tool but Dremel needs to work on their quality control. - Multitool - Lithium-ion - Cordless Rotary Tools - Cordless'

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Coupon Shopping

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Here is an affordable way to learn how to coupon! Great for beginners and even tips for the seasoned pros!Learn how to save money and be prepared for your shopping trips! What if you could get serious savings 50 ~ 70% or more, with a minimal time commitment? If that sounds good to you, you will love Coupon Quick Start Guide! The author of this book taught me how to coupon! I had the privilege of going to one of her classes in January 2011 and it changed my life!! Coupon Quick Start Guide - The Easiest, Fastest Way to Serious Savings and Free Groceries

I LOVE this book. Not only is it well organized, but it really shows the fun of using coupons and how to use them effectively and ethically- which are two very important things to me! The Coupon Quick Start Guide goes over the basics of couponing and then teaches you how to maximize your savings. It is not only great for the new couponer, but it is perfect for the couponing veteran! I find myself referencing this book when I simply forget or would like clarification on a certain term! The writers of this book really present the material in a fun and not overwhelming way.

When I first starting couponing, years ago, I really disliked it. I felt like it was a complete Waste of my time for the little bit of money, I was saving. I would get my Sunday paper, clip all of the coupons out and sort them in my a cheapy cardboard organizer. Then I would head out to the grocery store and use a $0.50 coupon for butter that wasn't on sale but, hey, I saved $0.50, Right... I would use this same method for several items in the store & complete my shopping trip with a whopping savings of $10 maybe $20. Really just $20, in my mind, I thought why would I spend so much time clipping coupons. When I can save more money and time at the $1 store. So I gave up, which lead me to begin, an on again, off again, relationship with coupons. In the end, it was all just to frustrating to me. Does this story sound a little familiar to you?

It may be a different scenario for every new couponer. But all roads lead to that same place and often times you end up, just giving up. That's why I love, Coupon Quick Start Guide, by Angela Newsom of Coupon Makeover , it provides you with all the information you need to begin a long lasting life, of big time savings. Mrs Newsom, has taught, thousands of people, for years, how to maximize their use of coupons in her Coupon Makeover 101 classes. Although, I consider myself a Veteran Couponer, I found the Coupon Quick Start Guide very easy to follow and I enjoyed the simple tips she includes. Especially her tips on stockpiling, budgeting and saving. As I read this book, it felt like, I had Angela right next to me, guiding me step by step through the entire process. I really wished, I had this book when I first started off. If you're a Newbie, I recommend you get this book and make it a point to read the whole thing first, which can easily be done in one day. And then go back and read a chapter per night and apply it to your daily shopping routine. Chapter highlights includes topics on terminology, getting organized, ethical couponing and my favorite, a step by step section on helping you with your first Shopping adventure using coupons. This chapter alone with jump start you to saving 50% to 70% off your daily household and grocery needs.'

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Extension Cable - audio cable, headphone cable

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I needed an extension because my headphones were too short to fit into my speakers. I looked at a lot of other extension reviews, and the main flaws of most of the extensions were that the wires would break or the sound quality would be greatly diminished afterwords. The majority of the reviews for this extension seemed positive so I decided to get it. This extension is great, you can walk around your room, or walk on the treadmill with increased mobility without a reduction in sound quality or loudness.

I haven't had a it long enough to know how long it might last before it may break down. So far I've had it for about a month plus a week, and there are no cracks in the wire, or any change in the quality, and I use for hours a day. Compared to other extension products I've seen this is a good buy for it's price and it's functionality. Cables To Go 40406 3.5 mm Male/Female Stereo Audio Extension Cable, Black (3 Feet/0.91 Meters)

This extension is just what I was looking for. I needed to have a long extension in order to connect my earphones to my PC and it is at about 1.50 m. from my head so the cable of my earphones was veryu short. I've been using it for a month and it works flawlesly

I bought this cable to replace the extension on my Shure earbuds. I would not reccommend it. The cable is much more rigid than the one that came with my earbuds, which causes it to work its way into loops instead of just laying flat. It is really annoying. The connectors also don't appear to be very good quality. I constantly get static in my earbuds if the plug twists around in the earphone socket of my Zune.

When I first received the 12 foot extension cable, I was very happy with it. The sound quality is only minimally affected. However, within a month and a half, it only works at certain angles. I cannot hold the cord in place whenever I want to listen to music. Don't waste your money, unless you plan to replace it every couple of months.

Here's an honest reveiw:

Really like the length and look of the extender, only problem is that after the

second day I used it, the right channel wouldn't work for any speakers or head phones that I'd use it with (even with cleaning and adjusting position of jack).

Fortunately I went rumaging through my old audio equipment and found my old extender which is only half as long and doesn't have as appealing of a look, but it does work after 4 YEARS of use (same cost range too).

Only 2 days of working compared to 4 years of working makes me give this product

the lowest possible review rating.

I broke the extension on my Bose headphones so I bought this as the replacement. It's ok, but it doesn't fit very well into my iPod when it has the case on it. The plastic around the extension is thick so it blocks that area. The sound is ok though, not overly excited about it but not disappointed either. It works and it's affordable!

I take the cable out of the package, plug my headphones into it and then plug the other end into my iPhone. The sound volume is much lower than if I was not using it. If I move the cable at all, there will be crackles and maybe only one channel will work. I suspect a short or a cold solder. This cable is only good for the trash.

This is the second cable I have used for extending earphones to reach my TV. My first one has worked for 1 year and ended up with one side of ears shut down, So I brought this cable. I found this new one is defective--making hiss noise on and off, and one ear is louder than the other, which really freaked me out. I am sure it is not because of my earphones or TV set, because they are working fine without the extension cable. My suggestion is that they still need a quality control while making this simple gedgets. - Audio Cable - Audio - Headphone Cable - Cable'

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Electrical Equipment - surge suppressors, apc

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First off, I can't say anything about the ability of this device to protect against surges b/c I haven't done any tests on it. However, if you believe the specs (and it seems like the Tripp Lite ones are more honest and thorough than most other brands), it provides a good deal of protection for a surge protector/suppressor in this price range.

I chose this particular model because of the many positive reviews on other models. My first and only experience with Tripp Lite was back in 2000. The surge protector worked well and provided a good user experience in that it's fairly easy to push the plugs in and pull them out and has 3 useful indicator lights. Also, the plastic has a good feel to it. I'm still using it today. I'm glad to see the reviews for Tripp Lite's other products are generally good. Also, if you spend as much time as I did, the positive reviews seem to be based more off of substance/experience than just subjective guesses.

Well, my next step was to look up the specs. The Tripp Lite website was very thorough. At one point, I was down to three Belkin surge protectors and 3 Tripp Lite ones. The Tripp LIte website had all the technical info I was looking for while the Belkin website was lacking in specification details. Go read up on what's important when looking to buy a surge protector (e.g., energy absorption; clamping voltage; response time, etc.) and you'll care more about the specs. Amazon's product descriptions lack these details and that's okay, but it's not okay for the mfr's website to lack this detail. So, I decided to go with the Tripp LIte products. Oh, Tripp Lite keeps advertising the # of transformers. It does matter b/c in some other brands/models, some plugs are disabled and will not allow for use of all the plugs. Read some of the bad reviews on the other products if you don't believe me.

Now it's time to choose the model I want. Originally, I was going to go with the Tripp Lite TLP810SAT's sister product that comes with an ethernet line connector instead of the coaxial connector. However, once I figured out that I'll never use ethernet surge suppression b/c this is for residential use and that I have FiOS, which uses a coaxial cable connection, I decided to go with this model. Also, don't be misled that all coaxial cable connections are the same. Only one set of coaxial cable connections on this surge protector is specifically designed for high bandwidth broadband use (see the Tripp Lite website and compare the specs for different models). If I only had cable internet, I wouldn't have cared so much, but because I have a FiOS connection, I decided not to take the chance. Also, for a few dollars more than the other version, I don't see any reason to pass up on this model. Finally, if I did end up having FiOS and some other connection that requires a coaxial cable, I'm all set. So, I rather pay a little more for this model than the other model that has an ethernet connection that I'll never use.

Now for the negative. The packaging had a little wrinkling in it, while the box it shipped in was okay. Also, there's no way to tell if this thing is new or used b/c the packaging is not sealed. One or two of the plug covers were in the open position as well. It's annoying that I don't know for sure if I received a brand new product, but it does have a lifetime warranty, so it's not really a big concern. Overall, I'm fine with this product. Tripp Lite TLP810SAT 8-Outlet Surge Protector (3240 Joules, Tel/DSL/Coax)

When it comes to outlet taps and surge protectors, you get what you pay for. Pay a little extra and get a good one (like this one). This is a very good unit for the money and should give many years of service and protection. I don't regret buying it, and I spent a great deal of time researching these types of units.

Have a 42" Plasma, DVD Player, VCR, DVR, Powered Surround Subwoofer & PC plugged into this thing and have had several power surges since I started using it and have experienced ZERO damage to any of my equiptment. It is well built with solid construction and the layout allows plenty of space for oversized power adapters.

This is the third TLP810SAT I have purchased. I liked the first two I purchased, that when I wanted to protect my latest flat screen TV, I bought the third. Very happy with it and would highly recommend it to anyone that wants a practical and very functional protectr, rugged cord and very well built.

This Surge has all the necessary outlets and is of a solid build quality. I've read that Tripp Lite makes quality products on many audio forums and I can attest that this product is as good as Monster products for less (especially on Amazon). Anyone in need of a Surge protector for their computer, TV, sound system should defintely look at Tripp Lite. I have used Belkin products in the past that I have been very happy with also. Please stay away from Monster products. - Apc - Power Strip - Surge Suppressors - Power Surge'

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Digital Answering Machine - corded speakerphone, answering machine

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This AT&T Answering System CL4939 was easy to set up and I love the large buttons and large desplay screen. I was also pleased with volume control for listening and speaker. The only problem is that there is no battery backup for the time and date clock and we lose power a lot. However, the directory listing of stored phone numbers is never lost so I can live with this. Overall I would recommend it for people who need a wired/corded system. AT&T White Corded Digital Answering System (CL4939)

This phone works just like a phone should - clear sound. I like that it uses A/C power and not batteries. Easy to use speed dial and directory updates. Display is big and easy to read, and the tilt helps too. I've only had this for a few weeks now, but so far, so good.

I got this telephone in August 2007, for less than it was then available at Amazon. For some weeks, it seemed fine.

But my previous two AT&T phones were not so hot. On both models, the caller id LCD screens died within two years of purchase. And on the previous model, with a built-in answering machine, there were two other problems as well. The digital voice recorder went kafflooey, and was barely audible after a couple of years. Worse, the calls could not always be answered immediately, as the receiver button became quite temperamental too.

On this one, the number buttons sometimes stick, making for extra long dialing tones that stop only when one fiddles with the button edge. Additionally, the directions to enter numbers into phone memory, and even to record an answering message, are overly complex.

While this model cost about half what I paid for the last AT&T office speaker phone model, I'm not a huge ATT fan.

This phone is just okay. And I am pretty sure I've bought my last AT&T phone.

In answer to a request for other phone brand options, I'm more pleased with my RCA 2 Line Speakerphone. It has a lot of bells and whistles I do not use. And the speaker does not always transmit the greatest sound quality. But the caller ID screen has held up nicely, the price has come way down, and the phone is generally more sturdy than the AT&T brand items I've purchased before --- including this model.

All I want to say is that I have had this phone for about 2-3 weeks now and I like it. Big buttons for dialing, built-in digital answering machine, and one feature I consider the most important, hands-free speaking via the built-in speakerphone. No complaints here. I might buy another one for matching phones. I like corded telephones. You never have to worry about the batteries dying on you.

I had been using an old corded GE speakerphone for years. I use this phone for work so liked the fact that it would still work without AC power. My only gripe is that it required 4 AA Batteries to operate the caller ID and speakerphone. So I decided to replace it finally and chose this phone. My favorite feature is I have 3 individual slider bars on the right side of the phone that individually control speakerphone volume, handset volume, and ringer volume. Tilt screen is wonderful and has a large easy to read display. Its not backlit but that is ok. I like that you can enable the speakerphone easily with 1 button. On my hold phone I had to place the call on hold, hang up the phone, then press speaker. On this one you just push speaker and hangup. To revert to handset just pick it up. There is individual lighted mute button as well. Unfortunately I can't comment on the answering machine as I'm not utilizing it. My only negative at all on the phone are the number buttons. They are flush with the phone and you don't get a lot of feedback when pressing them so its kind of hard to feel if your presses have registered. They somewhat stick slightly. Not a huge issue but with all the other wonderful features on the phone I didn't expect this to be an issue. Even though this phone uses ac power, you can still operate the phone with no power but only minimal functionality will be available. All in all a very solid phone.

This is a very good product for my purposes. It has all the bells and whistles most folks could want. After seeing it on the net, I bought one at Wal-Mart. Later, I found the same phone on Amazon for $10 less w/free shipping. Sorry about that, Wal-Mart!

This phone has a decent speakerphone which is why I bought it, so that does make me happy. It has a very good answering machine and alerts you with a frequent beep and a flashing light. Since I keep it in another room I'm happy it has the beep. The Caller ID works well and the display appearance is decent. However, there is one drawback and that is that the phone does not have a battery back-up (no power or batteries) which is nice unless you have a power failure! We seem to have our fair share of these and therefore our phone flashes "set clock" most of the time! It keeps the memory of stored phone numbers however. I'm giving it a 3 because of the set clock issue as it really should have a battery or a short term memory after a power failure. If you don't have many power failures - you'll like this item I think. - Corded Telephones - Answering Machine - Caller Id - Corded Speakerphone'

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Belgian Waffle Maker

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This waffle iron makes beautiful, fluffy waffles. I had a certain waffle iron from a company beginning with T that makes great toasters, but mediocre waffle irons. I didn't realize how bad it was till a friend of mine made some waffles with that popular eighty dollar waffle maker. I almost cried! They were so good, but I knew I could never afford it! So I decided to try this one based on the good reviews. I'm ecstatic that I did.

First, this machine is quick compared to my other waffle iron. Waffles using a basic recipe are done in less than 3.5 minutes.

Second, the timer is a great idea. Relying on the "steam stoppage" method cooks the waffles too long for some recipes. The beeping when the waffles are done is just enough to bring your attention away from the bacon. Do NOT be foolish enough to leave the room when you have a waffle iron plugged in, for goodness sake!

Third, cleaning is super-easy and storage is a breeze. I love that it folds and locks in an upright position. It fits right in my tiny, overcrowded kitchen.

Last, the waffles are wonderful. Fluffy and crisp on the outside.

Buy this waffle maker. It's worth it!

Waffle Maker

[updated January, 2011]

We bought the Presto FlipSide to replace a faux pro waffler made by the blender company who shares its name with Fred W's Glee Club. That one cost twice the price and lasted a mere three years before going to pieces. It was "Pro" in name only.

Presto took a simpler and possibly more durable approach: Engineer the hinge on a traditional counter-top Belgian waffle maker so it can flip 180 degrees and let gravity work its special magic. The entire weight of the baking platform is supported by the counter top, not by a pair of screws driven into failure-prone plastic.

When I unpacked the iron and set it on the counter, I noticed that the upper grid "floated" slightly when the grids were resting at the left side of the hinge. It might just be a mass-production variance but it was cause for concern because the iron has to close tightly for proper baking. When I flipped them to the right, the grids closed firmly, so the left side became the filling side and the right, the preheating and baking side. Do the same when yours arrives.

The nonstick grids are deep enough to fall into, with dimpled tapered studs that assist in releasing the baked waffle. The baking surface is surrounded by a fairly generous overflow rim. At 1350 watts, it bakes hotter than the 1200 watt pro-look model. The Presto lacks a browning control but you can compensate by adjusting the baking time. What's important is the initial temperature when the batter hits the grids, and if you turn a browning control too low, the grids are too cool to "fry" the outside. What you end up with is a textured pancake, not a real waffle.

The battery-powered timer is a nice feature but not really a necessity if your kitchen, like mine, has plenty of timers (the stove, the kitchen scale, the microwave oven).

The waffles come out about an inch and then some in height with a crisp, crackly exterior and a cloud-fluffy interior. We make our waffles from biscuit-and-baking mix but use the professional technique of separating the eggs and beating the egg whites before folding them into the batter. Baking time is 3 minutes for a waffle that would cost you at least a 10-spot plus tax and a tip on a hotel room service menu.

Time has proven that the Presto FlipSide, at half the price, is twice the waffle iron for the money.

I love this product. I got it at a great price compared to what I've seen in Kohl's, Bed, Bath and Beyond or Williams and Sonoma. I looked at all brands and all price ranges and I noticed spending more on a waffle maker doesn't get you a better product. Also, some of the stores had more expensive waffle makers that were not Belgian style which is our family favorite. My kids love using the timer and flipping over the waffle to start the process they feel like they are really helping and the timer let's me know when I have a perfectly crisp waffle.

Inspired by a recent stay at a hotel that provided a continental breaksfast w/Ready-Made Batter and a Waffle Maker, I decided to see what was available online. Reasonable Price and High Customer Review are the criteria I use when making any purchase. I was close to ordering a Waffle Maker that was priced approx. twice the price of this one and decided to go with the less expensive option (under $40) due to the great reviews so many people gave it. I ordered it with (3) cans of the Waffle Mix that came up by default.

Here are my findings...

1. When you set the timer for 3 mins & 30 seconds, even after a 3rd waffle-in-a-row was made, they were all golden brown and perfect!

2. The Timer does not beep when you need to flip it over half-way throught the baking process. With the Presto Waffle Maker, you set the timer for the entire cooking duration and flip the Maker immediately after pouring in the batter. When the timer beeps, Eat!

3. I oiled the grids once prior to using and should not have to oil again. Cleaning was simple after the Maker cooled down after use.

4. I wish the timer used direct electricity as opposed to batteries. It's not a big deal, just disconnected from the overall coolness of the unit.

5. I don't think the timer turns off, but is an lcd screen so uses very little battery.

6. My children and I all ate (1) waffle each, two of us used syrup and one used butter only and ate nothing again until dinner time! We love the taste and will likely make waffles a Saturday or Sunday ritual.

7. The Mix I purchased requires (1) Egg per waffle.

8. It's compact and simple to store in a cabinet and if you want to show off, leave it on the counter.

9. I highly recommend the Presto Flipside Waffle Maker, but I must qualify and let you know, I bought it 2 weeks ago. (Aug 2008).

MikeV - Waffle Guy

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I thought I might mention that I have owned this waffle maker for over a year (NOV 2009 now) and we still love it and use it fairly often. Not weekly, more like monthly, but when we do the waffles come out perfect!

MikeV - Sr. Waffle Guy'

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