Yamaha HTR-5860 XM-Ready 7.1-Channel A/V Surround Receiver (Black) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I have a beef with the remote on this unit. All remotes included with units above entry level must have learning capability. This remote, sadly does not.
The quality of the reciever is pretty good. It seems well built. The front control panel is well placed and the rear jacks are intuitively placed. The volume increases and decreases in TINY increments....which is a good or bad thing depending on how you look at it. The e-z setup was pretty easy to do. The on-screen programming is also nicely presented. I can tell no difference in the up-convert function to component. The input switching which is carried out through the receiver is excellent...when you change inputs (DVD, TIVO, CABLE, ETC), it automatically changes inputs on your TV....this is a nice function if you have a spouse who can never remember which input to switch to to watch a movie!!
Overall, I wish this receiver had HDMI jack to upconvert to highest quality signal...you will find this on the top-of-the line units. I'm pretty pleased with this purchase, given the low cost offered by Amazon with free shipping. If you are looking for an upgrade to your home theater, give this unit a shot.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Yamaha HTR-5860 XM-Ready 7.1-Channel A/V Surround Receiver (Black)

Yamaha Superior Performance, High Powered 7.1-Channel 770W (110W x 7) A/V Receiver. It features Yamaha's unique CINEMA DSP for outstandfing home theater performance, as well all Dolby formats and all DTS formats. It has YPAO which automatically sets the best sound for any room, with any speaker placement. It has Quad-Field CINEMA DSP and 14 Surround programs. It also features Night Listening Enhancer (Cinema/Music) and Silent Cinema. It has Component Video Up Conversion (Full) It is XM Satellite Radio ready. It also features on-screen display. It has an 8-Channel External Decorder Input.

Click here for more information about Yamaha HTR-5860 XM-Ready 7.1-Channel A/V Surround Receiver (Black)

Read More...

Motorola MD7081 5.8GHz Digital 2-line Phone Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I always like to identify with the lineage of my Motorola products and their engineers: truly original equipment gizmo guys (Walkie-Talkies, car radios, Amiga chips, cell phones). However, I just could not get either of the 2 MD7081 units I tried to work right in my house. Along with many others, I had been awaiting a 5.8Ghz 2-line, expandable (more than 4 handsets) system that would not fight with my Netgear Wireless G WRT54GS Wi-Fi network. I have been barely tolerating the Siemens system for years, so I was ready for the relief from noise and garble promised by the 5.8 systems. Here were the 2 problems: without any doubt, when the MD7081 was powered up, it degraded the Wi-Fi performance horribly. And, line 1 rang on the handset only every other ring on one of my lines. If I switched the inputs, so that that the telephone was receiving the signal from my other line, it worked fine. And so did the "trouble" line ring ok on the handset position 2. This was so on both units I tried. I thought about the ringer equivalent load on the 2 phone lines and so on, but this was too weird for me. I could not have switched the line 1 and line 2 designations on only some of the phones in my house, because my business calls come in on line 2 and no-one else should answer them. So, I returned both units and await relief from some new model. BTW, the Amazon price, review, and return policies give me the confidence to try new items, which I rarely find the need to return, but when I have to, I really appreciate the convenience.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Motorola MD7081 5.8GHz Digital 2-line Phone

A well-designed system for home offices or talkative family members, the Motorola MD7081 is built to handle two separate phone lines. Expandable to a total of eight handsets, the system includes a 30-minute digital answering system with two mailboxes. The base system is the only part that requires a phone jack, allowing you to add extra handsets wherever you like. Each handset can operate as part of an in-house intercom system, access conference calls and even function as a baby monitor; each also includes a headset jack and belt clip for hands-free operation.
The answering system is accessible from each handset, as well as the base, and allows memo recording and messages to be forwarded to cell or office numbers. With subscription to local service, each handset is call waiting/caller ID compatible, storing up to 50 names and numbers of the most recent callers. Numbers can be stored, deleted or moved into the permanent phonebook with just a few clicks. Twenty-four selectable ringtones are available, and the base is wall mountable.
With the addition of four AAA batteries (not included), the system will continue to function during power outages. Motorola includes a one-year warranty covering parts and service.
What's in the Box Base, power adapter, phone cord, handset, belt clip, user's guide, warranty and registration card

Click here for more information about Motorola MD7081 5.8GHz Digital 2-line Phone

Read More...

Zune 4 GB Video MP3 Player, Refurbished (Black) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I bought the refurbished Zune 8 for $77. The price may have changed after I posted this review.
PROS
[+] Well-built, all parts are scratch-resistant including the glass and plastic
[+] Sturdy build and flash memory make this drop-resistant even without a case
[+] The touch-sensitive Zune Pad interface is intuitive and fun to use, like a laptop pad that you can click and flick
[+] The screen is crystal-clear, videos and pictures are very sharp
[+] FM radio offers good reception through the earphone "antennas"
[+] Good battery life, just charge once or twice a week with normal use
[+] Supports Zune Pass (14 day free trial available for everyone, regardless of whether you own a Zune)
[+] Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to download and stream songs with a Zune Pass
[+] Free yearly firmware upgrades from Microsoft with new features
[+] Excellent price
NEUTRAL
[*] Normal resolution (240x320)
[*] Average amount of storage space (8 GB)
[*] Includes stock earphones, which are of average quality but can be magnetically attached for convenience
CONS
[-] Small screen (1.8 inches diagonally)
[-] Windows only, but free software Songbird can give limited support for Zune on Mac and Linux
[-] Wi-Fi features drain battery quickly
This Zune was much smaller than I had originally expected-- I never realized how small 1.8 inches really was for the screen. On the other hand, it's remarkably small and thin, and very sturdy for its size. You won't need a case to protect this, since the glass, plastic, and metal are too hard to be scratched in casual use. You don't even have to worry about dropping this, since there's no hard drive involved, which means that the Zune will, in almost all situations, continue to work properly.
One of the main perks for the Zune, compared to the alternatives, is support for the Zune Software. Although it is Windows-only, the Zune Software has a very easy-to-use and nice-looking interface, and has features like Mixview, which suggest new music depending on the history of music you listened to. Also, the Zune is compatible with the Zune Pass, which is a subscription service that gives you access to all of Zune's music library for $15 per month. If you buy songs on a regular basis, this is definitely worth a look. Also, Microsoft rolls out yearly firmware upgrades to all Zune models, so it's like getting a new Zune annually for no charge.
Please note that while the Wi-Fi features are pretty nice (especially for such an affordable MP3 player), you will drain the batter much faster while you are using these features. Turning on wireless already speeds up battery drain, but downloading or streaming music, while potentially handy if you are in a place with Wi-Fi, can make your battery run out 10 times as quickly! Use Wi-Fi in moderation unless you don't want enough battery power to listen to music or watch movies later.
Even though this is refurbished and Amazon said that the product may have "cosmetic imperfections," the only thing I noticed was a tiny dent in the plastic at the border of the glass. It's not easy to spot, and not nearly as obvious as the numerous scratches I've seen on the screens and surfaces of some other MP3 players. This purchase has confirmed for me that buying refurbished is a great way to save money on a good product without sacrificing much at all. You even get the same warranty, so the only real difference is not being able to claim that your product is new (which is certainly worth saving $50 for).
As a device that I use to listen to music on (through downloaded songs or radio) and watch videos on, the refurbished Zune 8 is a steal at under $80.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Zune 4 GB Video MP3 Player, Refurbished (Black)

This slim 4 GB Zune device is good to go with plenty of room for your favorite music, pictures, and video. It comes complete with a built-in FM tuner and buy-from-FM capabilities, wireless sync, Zune-to-Zune wireless sharing, video playback, and more--so you get all that Zune power in one tight little package. It holds up to 1,000 songs, 25,000 pictures, or 12 hours of video. Watch a demo on Zune. NOTE: This product has been refurbished to its original specifications for electrical performance. Unit may contain cosmetic imperfections. Consumer warranty for refurbished devices is one year.
Buy from FM Click to buy from the built-in FM radio. Every Zune device lets you listen to your favorite FM radio stations and click to tag the songs you like for later purchase when you sync your device with your PC.1
Zune Pass With the Zune Pass subscription service, you'll get millions of tracks for the price of one CD. Download tracks, whole albums, or playlists. Explore new music or rediscover old favorites--then sync them to your Zune. Extend your subscription online or by purchasing a Zune Pass card. Or, if you like, purchase songs or albums individually.2
Wireless Sync Remotely sync with your PC. Connect to your home wireless network and remotely sync your Zune device with your PC collection from your dock, AC adapter, or speaker dock accessory.4
Device to Cloud Your Zune player can access thousands of wireless hotspots around the country. Automatically update your collection, browse Zune Marketplace, refresh your Channels, exchange favorites with friends, or buy songs you've tagged from your FM radio. Take advantage of a Zune Pass and access the music you love where you want, at no extra cost.
Wireless Sharing Music is in the air with Zune wireless sharing. Send your favorite songs, albums, playlists, pictures, and even audio podcasts freely between any Zune devices. Listen to the full track of any song you receive up to three times and pass them along to other friends. If you want to buy a song, click to tag it and have your Zune find it later when you sync with your PC.3
Channels Like your very own radio stations, Zune Channels are custom programming stations that deliver personalized playlists to your Zune from a variety of sources you select, such as music experts, celebrities, or top radio stations. Channels you subscribe to automatically update whenever you're connected--to your PC, home network, or even selected wireless hotspots. When you subscribe to Zune Pass, you get an unlimited Zune Channels experience.
Games Zune players now come with a selection of fun free games. Choose music from your collection to create your own personal game soundtrack. Connect and compete wirelessly with other nearby Zune users.
Video/TV Shows Choose from a growing selection of TV shows now available on the Zune Marketplace video store, and take your favorite episodes or whole seasons with you wherever you go. Use your Zune device to watch popular shows like The Office, South Park, Heroes, and 30 Rock from NBC; shows from Comedy Central; Adult Swim from the Cartoon Network; and countless other shows from other major networks.6 Also, if you're recording TV shows or movies with Windows Media Center in Windows Vista, you can import and sync them to your device. Load up your favorite videos, and hit the road.5
Zune Social Discover, share, and connect with the Zune Social, a free online community that lets you share your musical tastes with friends and millions others. Customize your Zune Card and Zune profile page with your favorite music and pictures. Then connect and share Zune Cards, music, and messages with friends and other members of the community.
Zune Marketplace Fulfill your entertainment desires at Zune Marketplace. Millions of songs, albums, TV shows, audio/video podcasts, and more are available--plus, your online store is always open and only a mouse click away. Download or subscription? It's up to you. Buy individual songs and albums, or an unlimited Zune Pass music subscription2.
Audiobooks Let your Zune read to you while you can't. Listen to everything from your favorite novels to the latest bestseller. Now you can transfer your existing audiobook files from sites like Audible.com to your Zune device and enjoy them whenever you want.
Xbox 360 Compatibility Ever wish you could play games to the sound of your favorite tunes? Now you can. Connect your Zune device to your Xbox 360 console and play your favorite songs while you game on Xbox 360 and Xbox LIVE. You can share content from your Zune collection to an Xbox 360 console on a home network and play your media through the Xbox Dashboard.
Accessories Traveling, working late, or working out? Whatever you're up to, your Zune will be right there with you. Make sure you have the best accessories to keep up with your lifestyle.
Zune AC Adapter: Fast recharge wherever there's an outlet
Zune Car Pack: Ride with Zune as it charges while playing in your car
Zune Home AV Pack: Hook up your Zune to any home stereo and control it via remote
Zune Premium Earphones: noise-isolating design that delivers superior sound quality and comfort
Zune Cable Pack: Provides every cable you need to stay connected
Zune Dock Pack: Nonstop your tunes while you charge your Zune
Zune Leather Case: Protects your Zune with style

Legal Disclaimers: 1. Buy from FM feature available with stations broadcasting RDS and RT Plus data 2. Zune Pass is a monthly music subscription service; some songs are not available via Zune Pass. Available Zune Pass content may vary over time. 3. Wireless sync feature requires access to a home wireless network 4. Zune to Zune wireless sharing may not be available for all songs in your music collection and works only between Zune devices within wireless range of each other. Recipients may play full-length sample tracks up to three times. 5. Requires a PC running Windows Vista Home Premium or Windows Vista Ultimate and an integrated or external TV tuner. 6. Available content may vary over time.
What's in the Box?Refurbished Zune 4 GB Digital Media Player (Black), earphones with three earpiece covers, sync cable

Click here for more information about Zune 4 GB Video MP3 Player, Refurbished (Black)

Read More...

Creative Zen Micro 6 GB MP3 Player Black Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)NOTE: this review is for the 5gb player. I wrote this lengthy review for that model, and it didn't show up and I can't re-submit it now. DARN thing! All the specs should be the same though.
I've been behind the times using the same portable CD player for the last 6 or 7 years... so this was really a BIG step up for me. Hopefully this review will be helpful if you have never owned an mp3 player before....
I have no idea how this compares to the ipod, but here is a list of the lesser known features of the zen micro:
PROS
+++ It tells you the number of tracks, albums & playlists uploaded. Total Mb & Mb remaining.
+++ FM radio.
+++ Removable battery & micro hard disc.
+++ If you're halfway through a song (or paused) & you shut it down (or it shuts down after being inactive for a while, IT RESUMES WHERE IT LEFT OFF in the middle of a song when your turn it back on again!! :-)
+++ You can change the idle shutdown time, backlight time, contrast, touchpad sensitivity, language (there are 15 languages installed!!)
+++ sleep timer
+++ You can personalise (configure) menus, much like with mobile phones.
+++ PLAY MODES: normal, repeat track, repeat all, shuffle, shuffle repeat & track once.
+++ You can find songs by albums, artists, genre, playlist
+++ DJ menu: album of the day, random play all, most popular & rarely heard tracks.
+++ There are 10 bookmarks, which I have absolutely no idea how to use, but it must be put onto this list anyway. ;-)
+++ 12/24hr time, alarm, calendar, date (several date formats and you can even choose between the following separators: space, dot, dash, slash)
+++ Variable microphone sensitivity.
+++ Organiser; tasks + contact lists. (synchronised with creative sync manager)
+++ Smart volume + Equaliser (numerous modes: Off, custom, acoustic, classical, disco, jazz, new age, pop, rock, or vocal)
+++ master reset.:-0
+++ track name, title & artist on LCD display.+ battery indication, and various other on-screen icons while a song is playing, such as EQ & repeat modes.
+++ Gives the length of a song as a bar graph so you can tell the progress of the song...
+++ A lot of stuff in the box: remote control, belt clip & cradle, pouch, usb cable, charger, earphones, software (easy enough to figure out).....
+++ Last but not least: a cool blue glow + white backlit screen!!!
+++ There ISN'T a one second delay between playing each song.
+++ My zen micro hasn't crashed on me yet (and I have been sucessful in crashing every computer product known to man, eg: my Ericsson T39m phone several times!)
CONS:
--- The touch pad can be annoying sometimes. So you either have to hold it by the edges when playing a song or put it on hold mode, otherwise your palm will set off a whole bunch of menus.
It's okay when you're using it though.
--- You can't hear any music while fast-forwarding through a song. I am used to being able to go by ear while doing this, but you can't do that with this thing. Maybe a future firmware upgrade will fix this issue? Please??! Creative???!!
--- I walked all around sydney and couldn't find this in *ANY* shop. So I had to buy it online. All the photos of the zen on the 'net are front on.... and I didn't realise until I opened the box that the back & sides of the zen micro were coloured WHITE!!! ARRRRGHHHH! I hate white! Aaaahhh well, I suppose I'll get used to it soon enough.
--- I find the lowest volume setting isn't all that low. I can still hear songs well in a fairly quiet room during the daytime. At 3:00am I think this might be just a tad louder than I would have liked. [This is with panasonic earbuds though]
--- You have to first aportion (partition) the HDD to be used as an extrenal flash drive. Available sizes are: 128, 256, 512Mb, 1, 2Gb. You should be able to just use whatever is available. This isn't a big problem though.
--- Earbuds are too thick for my ears. Wearing them is like stuffing a peanut lengthwise in your ear. It pulls your earlobes out.
--- There is practically zero information (on how to use the menus) in the instruction manual.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Creative Zen Micro 6 GB MP3 Player Black

The Zen Micro digital music player from Creative Labs packs an incredible 6GB of storage capacity into a shell small enough to sit comfortably in yourjeans pocket. It also rides nicely in your hand, with a palm-fitting profileand thumb-friendly front-panel controls. It's a bit shorter than an Apple iPodMini, yet its rechargeable lithium-ion battery provides 12 hours of continuousplayback--50 percent more than iPod Mini's. The Zen Micro is compatible notmerely with MP3s and WAV files, but with WMA as well. Toss in USB 2.0 connectivityand you're looking at one spiffy portable music player.
What's in the Box The Zen Micro player, stereo earbud headphones, a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, a USB 2.0 cable, an installation CD, a quick- start guide, and Creative MediaSource software.

Click here for more information about Creative Zen Micro 6 GB MP3 Player Black

Read More...

SanDisk Sansa Fuze 4 GB Video MP3 Player (Pink) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)About three years ago I had purchased a Sandisk Sansa m230 Mp3 player (the blue 512 MB one). I loved the little gadget, until it was in a horrible accident involving a heavy book bag and the floor. Amazingly the player still worked, but the screen was scattered. So I used the device for the past year a bit messed up, then I saw that Sansa was coming out with the Fuze in March. I new that if my little mp3 player could be smashed by a 20 lb. book bag and still work, the Fuze would have to be wonderful.
I never even considered an iPod. They are not worth the money and friends have had way to much trouble with the devices for me to begin to think about buying one. The Fuze has all the abilities of videos, radio, pictures, music (of course), and so much more. And their prices for the about of memory that you get is amazing. Who ever uses 80 GB of memory anyway? If you do or have, I applaud your unimaginable music library.
Since I was going away to college, I decided to spend a bit of my graduation party money on one, I bought a 4 GB Pink Fuze. When it arrived, I have to admit I was surprised how small it really was. But it fit perfectly in your hand, so the smallness doesn't really affect anything. The screen is unbelievably bright. I have it set to the lowest brightness and still can see things perfectly fine in complete darkness. The turn wheel glides smoothly, and is easy to select the songs you want. The sound is wonderful also. The headphones that come with the Fuze fit so nicely and sound terrific. I wish I could buy just those!
I will admit that the screen does scratch a bit easy. I was cleaning it, something which I obsess over a bit, with an eye glass cleaning cloth and little scratches appeared when I was finished. So it might be a good idea to invest in a hard case that covers the screen or those screen protectors that companies make for GameBoys or something like that.
You should also know that you must convert videos and pictures using a download found on the sansa fuze forum. It takes a little while to download, but the conversions don't take all that long to finish. It also puts them right to the Fuze. There is also a firmware download on the Fuze forum that might be a good idea to download. It doesn't take very long either.
I love my Fuze and wish I would have bought one sooner. You can't bet the price for the memory and the quality of the product. Sansa put that little bit of effort into their products that make them extra special. For example the silicon like back on the Fuze to help the device not slide. It feels neat too. If you are thinking of buying one, DO IT! You won't regret it! They are awesome!

Click Here to see more reviews about: SanDisk Sansa Fuze 4 GB Video MP3 Player (Pink)

With the SanDisk Sansa Fuze, you can fuse your portable entertainment, featuring 4 GB of storage. Listen, watch, and play all day with 24 hours of battery life and room for up to 1,000 songs**. Watch your favorite video clips on the Sansa Fuze's 1.9-inch color screen. Measuring just 0.3 inches thin, the Sansa Fuze marks the next wave of music and video players.
Audio PlayerSmaller than a credit card and as thin as a pencil, the new Sansa Fuze MP3 player looks great--and has the brains to match. With room for up to 1,000 songs**, you can listen all day long. Jam to FM radio with 40 preset stations, play with the built-in voice recorder, and listen to your favorite audiobooks wherever you go. And with 24 hours of battery life, you're free to listen, watch, and play all day--literally.
Watch Your Favorite Videos The Sansa Fuze comes with 4 GB of built-in memory enough to store 12-hour video playback segments. Watch your favorite video clips from wherever you are. To ensure speedy file transfers, the unit features a USB 2.0 connection. Simply connect the player to a PC, and start dragging files from your Windows Media Player 10 or 11 applications.
Expanded Capacity With an option to extend the capacity, its MicroSD/SDHC memory card slot means storage possibilities are essentially unlimited. Expand your music collection, show albums of photos with up to 2,000 images**, and watch your favorite videos on those long trips.
Compatible Formats The player supports MPEG4 video files and audio files saved in MP3, secure and unsecured WMA, WAV, Audible, and Overdrive file formats.
FM Radio If you're feeling like a break from your own tunes, or want to dial in the TV frequency at the gym, use the digital FM tuner. Save your favorites on the 40 user presets.
Voice Recorder Use the voice recorder with built-in microphone to take memos, record meetings or lectures, or capture whatever else you might feel inclined to point a microphone at. When you're ready, transfer your files for listening on your PC.
What's in the Box SanDisk Sansa Fuze 4 GB MP3 player (pink), earphones, USB 2.0 cable, quick start guide
* 1 gigabyte (GB) = 1 billion bytes; some of the listed capacity is used for formatting and other functions; thus, it is not available for data storage
** Based on continuous audio playback at 128 kpbs MP3; video playback at 512 kbps/ MPEG 4; photos based on 1.7 MB average file size; battery life and performance might vary depending upon usage and settings; battery not replaceable.

Get 18% OFF

Click here for more information about SanDisk Sansa Fuze 4 GB Video MP3 Player (Pink)

Read More...

Universal Remote Control MX-450 Custom Programmable Remote Control with On-Screen Macro Editing. Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Let's all agree that it does not require an advanced degree in computer science to program a remote control. In the case of the MX-450, neither does it require a "Professional" installer (whatever THAT means).
If you know or can figure out with a little bit or web surfing (a) which components need to be turned on and what inputs and outputs should be selected, (b) what is the difference between IR and RF, (c) what an IR emitter or blaster is, (d) what a delay is, and (e) that you need a Power Off macro to turn off all the devices in your system, you can easily program this remote. It might take a little bit of trial and error and a little bit of patience, but no more than any other "Consumer" remote control that I have seen so far.
Put another way: If you can read the directions and figure out how to program a Logitech Harmony remote at some basic level (and especially if you have already done so), you can read the directions and figure out how to program this one and probably in less time. You might have to start over again once or twice while you get familiar with the guided setup, but the step-by-step software is so simple that even a "professional" installer could probably figure it out :)
My experience: I initially owned a Universal Remote Corporation MX-900 which was installed and programmed for me by a "Professional" AV company that shortly thereafter went out of business. I was irritated at URC because they would not provide me with access to the programming software for my MX-900. They said it was for "Licensed Dealers Only" which is their way of saying "Professionals". It was a great remote, but I was no longer willing to pay somebody $300 every time I wanted to tweak the picture or add/upgrade a component (e.g., adding an XBox, swapping the DVD for a Blu-Ray, etc.) and a few things with the way mine was programmed were really irritating.
To replace that, I purchased a Logitech Harmony 900 and had the exact experience as everyone else who purchased it did: bad RF range and performance. I tried every creative workaround you could think of, to no avail. If the RF worked, it would be a great remote. But it doesn't.
URC adveritizes this remote as being for "Professionals", which initially scared me off, but the cool thing about the MX-450 for the DIY folks like me is that, since you don't need a PC, there is no software required to program the remote.
Correcting some previous reviews, URC offers for download from its web site support section a helpful Archiver program that allows you to update the remote firmware and ir codes database via a USB cable -- just like the Harmony remotes, but much simpler. It also allows you to make a backup copy of your remote configuration in case you have a problem later on and need to do a factory reset or restore your settings. (For the non-pros like me, I strongly recommend making multiple backups along the way as you add more and more cool macros and other programming.)
In my case, I spent about an hour surfing through the internet reviews and reading the 12 page manual before I took the thing out of the box. It probably took me another 4 hours in total to program the remote over the course of one evening. That includes my Denon AVR receiver, my Sony TV, my Sony Blu-Ray player, my AppleTV, my Xbox, my HDRadio and my wife's Wii Fit (all hidden in the next room and connected to our whole-house audio system). I used the macro feature to create six macros on the Main page that emulate Harmony-style "Activites" -- e.g., to watch Tivo, you press the "Watch Tivo" button and the remote does the rest. Favorite channels can be done in under 10 minutes. It probably took me another half-hour to install the IR emitters, the base station and the RF antenna and do the RF programming on the remote to make each component RF only with its own ir address. BTW, the URC manual for the MRF 350 base station is really easy to follow and the RF settings on the remote itself are self-explanatory.
The guided programming is not as elegant as what you can do on a PC, and I had to start programming devices or macros over again once or twice, but the learning, macro and cut and paste functions are really helpful and easy. You can do just about anything that you can think of with this remote so long as you are a little bit organized. My unit gives me RF range to almost 100 feet through two interior walls and the performance has been reliable, even during long macros.
I highly recommend this as an alternative to other high-end RF remotes for DIY folks like me.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Universal Remote Control MX-450 Custom Programmable Remote Control with On-Screen Macro Editing.

The Universal Remote MX-450 is a future featured remote control with a color screen.It can be programmed to use RFcontrol with the addition of the MRF-260 base station.This means you do not have to point the remote at the device you are controlling to adjust your settings.

Get 23% OFF

Click here for more information about Universal Remote Control MX-450 Custom Programmable Remote Control with On-Screen Macro Editing.

Read More...

Zeikos Green Bay Packers Slumber Dock Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I bought this for our son for Christmas, to go with his i-pod touch. Firstly, his touch does not recognize this accessory. Nowhere in the description does it say it is not compatible with i-pod touch. No sound comes out. The radio works, but is of poor quality. Clock setting is near impossible. Amazon wouldn't take it back, as I was out of the policy's window. I contacted the company directly and they did not answer their phone nor return my call. I'm throwing it in the garbage.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Zeikos Green Bay Packers Slumber Dock

Get 56% OFF

Click here for more information about Zeikos Green Bay Packers Slumber Dock

Read More...

Sangean SR-3 AM/FM Pocket Size Receiver Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I purchased this radio mainly because of the built in speaker and that part of the stereo works great. the sound of it is amazing for the small size. BUT when i plug in my headphones(my own, not the ones they supplied) it sounded so flat and hollow. Also sangean products have a reputation for getting good reception but this radio does not. My CHEAPER sony walkman gets better reception with a lot less hiss. I am going to return this radio and either try a different brand or give a higher quality sangean a try.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Sangean SR-3 AM/FM Pocket Size Receiver

This stylish, compact FM/AM radio exemplifies everything Sangean radios are known for: efficiency, innovation, and convenience. Weighing a mere 58 grams (without battery), the SR-3 is as small as a lighter. You can tuck it into most pockets and it won't slow you down during a fast-paced workout or busy commute.
The radio comes with stereo earbuds and a neck strap, as well as a trailing antenna. DBB (Deep Bass Boost) enhances the low end, while a stereo-mono switch improves reception when needed. Measuring a mere 1.5 by 3 by 0.6 inches, the unit runs on a single AAA battery (not included).

Get 37% OFF

Click here for more information about Sangean SR-3 AM/FM Pocket Size Receiver

Read More...

Memorex Home Audio System with iPod Dock and CD Player (Black) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)My dad's entertainment center takes up almost an entire wall of our house. The stereo system alone consists of about 3/4 of the space. Two huge speakers flank the TV; an entertainment rack has a turntable (aka record player, if anyone even knows what those are anymore), an old CD player from the late 90's (will not recognize CD-RWs or mp3 CDs), a tuner, an amplifier, and a cassette deck (another obsolete piece of equipment).
Why am I bringing this up? Well, Memorex realizes that the times have changed and have changed to bring you all that equipment in a much smaller package: meet the Memorex Home Speaker System for Ipod. This handy dock has not only an iPod dock (and charging station!) but AM/FM radio and a CD-RW/mp3 CD changer (nice addition, may I add!).
Firstly, I really enjoyed the price. Bose docks cost almost triple of the Memorex price, and I think while the quality of the Memorex is no where near the Bose, I find that it is adequate for my purposes. The unit is pretty compact and doesn't stick out, which is great as I stick it directly on the floor. I haven't quite gotten the FM radio to sound as good as I would like, but there is a cord for FM radio reception and I'm sure if I play with it, I can get better quality. Also, the remote takes some getting used to, but it is sure nice to be able to remotely access music, switch from iPod to radio or CD or change the volume. What is also nice is this unit comes with a bass and treble modifier, which seems to work rather nicely. Also, there is a clock (nice feature!), a sleep (great for going to bed to!), and a timer, which I haven't used yet.
Overall, I am very pleased with the Memorex. It has provided what I needed (i.e. iPod dock with CD changer and radio) at a fairly low cost. I would recommend.
NOTE (7/13/09): I recently moved the unit to the counter in the kitchen of my apartment and it works amazingly! The unit is loud enough to carry into the living room, dining room and even slightly into the bedroom. The only problem I still have is the remote, which requires to be pointed very particularly at the unit in order to work.
Brought to you by
*C.S. Light*

Click Here to see more reviews about: Memorex Home Audio System with iPod Dock and CD Player (Black)

Click here for more information about Memorex Home Audio System with iPod Dock and CD Player (Black)

Read More...

Cobra Micro Talk CXT-85 GMRS/FRS 2-Way Radio Pair (Black) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Bought these for a cross country convoy of a car club. Charged them once and they lasted the entire 1100 mile trip. No complaints. I specifically like that they came with rechargables and a charger that didn't require a base station (portable).

Click Here to see more reviews about: Cobra Micro Talk CXT-85 GMRS/FRS 2-Way Radio Pair (Black)

Click here for more information about Cobra Micro Talk CXT-85 GMRS/FRS 2-Way Radio Pair (Black)

Read More...

Onkyo TX-8255 Stereo Receiver Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This receiver replaced a Sony STR 397 that had a continuous static problem that was never fixed. I gave up on the Sony and bought the Onkyo. I use it to power two Polk tower speakers hooked up to my HDTV and DVD player.
The receiver is basic, no frills. Bass, treble and balance controls are on the front panel. There is no loudness control. There are multiple memory settings for music stations. All the standard connections are in the back including an input for an iPod (docking station extra). The tuner works well and has standard scanning for stations.
The receiver is rated at 50W per channel. It is plenty adequate for the Polks. The sound is clear and unvarnished. It produces a crisper, cleaner sound than the Sony.
For sound reproduction without lots of frills and buttons, this has proved an excellent choice. I am very pleased with the item.
Once again, I have to complement Amazon for having excellent pricing and incredible free shipping that is fast.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Onkyo TX-8255 Stereo Receiver

If you want your receiver to focus purely on two-channel audio, the TX-8255 could be just the answer. It`s perfect for your living room, or anywhere else you like to sit back and soak up your music.The TX-8255`s rock-solid construction incorporates a heavy-duty extruded aluminum heat sink to ensure cooler operation.The whole unit is housed in a rigid, reinforced chassis-finished off with a hairline-brushed aluminum front panel-to help eliminate vibrations. Add compatibility with RI dock for the iPod(R), and you have a superb stereo solution that brings out the power and dynamism of your audio sources.

Click here for more information about Onkyo TX-8255 Stereo Receiver

Read More...

Sonos Play:5 All-In-One Wireless Music Player With 5 Integrated Speakers (S5, Black) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Just got the S5 about an hour ago. Setup couldn't be easier. Step 1 - connect the power cord to an power outlet. Step 2 - hit the Mute and + button to get the S5 added as a new zone, Step 3 - hmmm....I don't think there is one. Just hit play and enjoy pure bliss.
This is my 4th Zone player (see my other gushing review of the Sonos system on the Sonos bundle page), and anytime my wife asks, "how many of these white boxes you really need?", the answer is always "one more".
Portability is the key feature of S5. Moving it from Kitchen to backdeck is just a matter of unplugging the power cord and replugging at the new location. It's all in one box. And the sound quality is not bad either. With all 4 zone players on party mode - some connected to very expensive Klipsch towers - I have ran around to compare the sound quality at various locations. The verdict - this little guy stacks up nicely against the big boys.
And the iPhone controller is not too shabby either. Don't see the need to buy the new touch controller (CR200).
Awesome product. Pure genius. Just get it.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Sonos Play:5 All-In-One Wireless Music Player With 5 Integrated Speakers (S5, Black)

Turn your iPhone/iPod touch/iPad device or Android smartphone into the ultimate remote control. Download the free Sonos Controller app for your iPhone/iPod touch/iPad device or Android smartphone and you'll have complete wireless control of your S5 through your home's WiFi network. Scroll through songs, browse album art, tune in to radio stations and more. Plus, since you're not streaming the music from your iPhone, like you are with docking stereos, you can take calls and receive texts without interrupting the music. Get instant access to endless music. Touch a button on your device and ZonePlayer is playing music from your computer's digital music library. Touch another and it's reggae straight from Jamaica on one of 100,000 free Internet radio stations and shows. Touch your device again and you're tapped into Rhapsody, Pandora, Napster, Last.fm, and SIRIUS. "The music sounds fantastic." The New York Times Beneath its sleek all-in-one exterior, the S5 hides five independent speakers, each powered by its own dedicated digital amplifier. This means you get rich, room-filling sound that rivals or outperforms much larger, more complicated audio systems. And, because the S5 uses a 100% digital architecture, every notefrom top-of-the-range highs to mids and deep, true basscomes through in brilliant clarity exactly as the artist intended. Add multiple rooms of music without adding a single wire. Get a whole-home music system without spending a dime for installation. Simply add additional ZonePlayer S5 units throughout your house and the proprietary Sonos wireless network will integrate them all into a single wireless music system. You can stream the same music to all rooms or send separate streams to each unit. And you can control it all, including individual volumes from your iPhone device anywhere in the house. "The setup process is fantastically simple." The Wall Street Journal Just plug the all-in-one Sonos ZonePlayer S5 into your Internet router and instal

Click here for more information about Sonos Play:5 All-In-One Wireless Music Player With 5 Integrated Speakers (S5, Black)

Read More...

Shakespeare SRA-25 Ultra Low Profile Sirius Marine Antenna Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This piece of hardware was perfect for our boat, and the seller shipped as advertised. Quick, hassle free and perfect.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Shakespeare SRA-25 Ultra Low Profile Sirius Marine Antenna

Get 44% OFF

Click here for more information about Shakespeare SRA-25 Ultra Low Profile Sirius Marine Antenna

Read More...

Kaito AN-03L - Radio antenna Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)From what can be seen on the Amazon website as well as on other sites, this Kaito reel antenna (AN-03L) is essentially the same as the Sangean ANT-60 antenna (and 50 % cheaper in price!) right down to the supplied connector for a whip antenna (for radios without an external antena jack of any kind). The only notable, albeit quite small, differences are the presence of two separate finger holds used to reel the antenna back up when finished listening and a separate small attachment for hanging the unit up on a hook in the wall or on the ceiling, etc.). This Kaito antenna is designed to improve reception on FM/SW as well as for TV (UHF/VHF) and for the Weather bands for any such radio. AM (MW) reception is separately controlled by a ferrite antenna coil that is comonly incorporated inside of most radios. I have used this Kaito antenna on my Kaito KA1102. The antenna is 7 m (~23 feet) long which should usually be placed as high as possible near an outside door or window of any building for the best reception improvement. I have found an excellent improvement for weaker signals on the FM/SW bands (too long of an antenna can overload some radios like the KA1102, but this length of wire is perfectly adequate whereas other longer external antennas will not be. Always check your radio manual first before investing in a very long external antenna!). It must be remembered that the antenna not only allows an amplification of signal, but also of the prevailing background radio noise level so if it is very noisy at the time of reception at a certain frequency, the improvement in "hearing" may not always be as good as at other times when the background noise levels are much lower. Overall I am very happy with this very inexpensive purchase which is a simple passive fix for a generally quick improvement of signal strength for the weaker FM/SW radio waves.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Kaito AN-03L - Radio antenna

Get 50% OFF

Click here for more information about Kaito AN-03L - Radio antenna

Read More...

Kaito KA1103 - Portable radio Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I own the whole lineup of Kaitos and the 1103 beats the others for FM sensitivity. The 1101 takes second, the 1102 takes third, and the 105 takes fourth. AM is similar on all models. But the speaker is also superior on the 1103.
Here's what I like about the 1103:
1. Powerful, crystal clear FM reception that is superior to radios that cost twice as much.
2. Warm full speaker sound for a radio of this size.
3. The cool factor of a radio that has so many innovations and is changing the radio industry, causing Sangean, Grundig, and Sony to wake up and start making more competitive products at better prices.
4. PLL synthesized tuning with over 250 presets or memories.
Here's what I don't like:
1. You have to press buttons or digitally enter for volume control. There is no spin wheel for quick volume change.
2. The analog display takes up unnecessary space on the radio.
3. AM, like all PLL synthesized radios, is well above average but needs improvement.
However, AM is more than adequate and as a whole the 1103 is my favorite PLL synthesized, dual conversion small radio. If I could only own two radios, a compact and an analog medium sized radio, I'd keep the Kaito 1103 and my Tecsun BLC 2000 (sold for considerably more as the Grundig S350), which gets great AM.
If you don't mind finding an English manual on the internet, you can spend half the money on the Kaito by buying its clone, the Degen 1103. Degen radios, the original Chinese versions, are Kaitos but only come with Chinese manuals and they need AC adaptor converters. The upside is that they are half the price of the American version Kaitos.
Post Script: I enjoy my Kaito 1103 more than ever because I placed it ontop of my Sangean WR-2 and hooked up an audio cable between the two radios. So I'm feeding the sterling 1103 reception through the Sangean's premium speaker. Great bedside setup. You could do the same for cheaper by just buying a good speaker and hooking it up the 1103.
Update: I don't recommend you save money by purchasing the less expensive Chinese clone Degen. The adapter gets hot. If you must get the Degen, buy a USA-built step down 110 converter to avoid fire hazard.
Update for 8-12-206: Both my Degen and Kaito 1103 have shut down making me think that they had lost all electric power or had "fried" inside but in fact they had "shut down" and only needed to be reset by sticking a paper clip end into the reset hole. Now they both work fine. In fact, I bought the Kaito because I thought my Degen had "fried." I was wrong. Keep in mind, these radios can be a little touchy and may need to be reset from time to time.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Kaito KA1103 - Portable radio

Get 40% OFF

Click here for more information about Kaito KA1103 - Portable radio

Read More...

Zeikos Dallas Cowboys Slumber Dock Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)received the clock - it read military time and could not be converted. When I inquired, i was told they were working on producing new ones. I was sent a new (supposedly) and it also was military time. I asked for my money back, but the company no longer answers my emails.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Zeikos Dallas Cowboys Slumber Dock

Get 56% OFF

Click here for more information about Zeikos Dallas Cowboys Slumber Dock

Read More...

Oregon Scientific Rm313pa Exactset Fixed Projection Alarm Clock Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Most of my life I've had early shifts for my occupation (i.e. being into work at 6:00 am or earlier). I used to have a clock that didn't have a battery backup nor did it keep the correct time. I saw this model clock that had both plus the time projection on the ceiling so my wife didn't have to try to roll me over to see the clock, so I decided to give it a try. The clock looks a bit futuristic, but that is its function. The exact time feature is great. I set the houses clocks to it whenever the power goes out, which is regularly (where in a rural town). The battery backup is another great feature that I've never had prior to this. The only drawbacks that I have with the clock is that in order to project the time on the ceiling so that you can read it on a decent angle, is to turn the clock so that you can't the time on its face. You either get to see the one on the ceiling or you get the face of the clock, not both. Another drawback is the buttons on the clock don't make much sense when you need to program the alarm. Once you know the buttons to push, its easy, but they aren't marked well. Hope this review is helpful for you.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Oregon Scientific Rm313pa Exactset Fixed Projection Alarm Clock

The RM313PNA Blue ExactSet Fixed Projection Alarm Clock with Indoor Temperature makes going to bed or waking up fun!This cool member of the ExactSet family has all the amazing attributes of our other ExactSet clocks: it sets itself automatically, self-corrects for daylight saving time, projects the time in soft glowing red numbers on the wall or ceiling and now provides you with the indoor temperature! This cool and curvaceous clock not only looks good, but is easy to use and operate.The radio tower icon on the LCD screen lets you know your ExactSet projection clock is tuned in and receiving the super-accurate Atomic Clock time.Colorful design and split-second accuracy -- a combination of style and technology that is unquestionable!

Get 26% OFF

Click here for more information about Oregon Scientific Rm313pa Exactset Fixed Projection Alarm Clock

Read More...