Tag: Headphones

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Feature Technology

Not So Cheap Buds

REDMI Earbuds

Recently I needed a new pair of earbuds. As a regular gym goer , time goes by faster, tuned into my own music. Another reason, I keep loosing my sound devices. This time my criteria was price, nothing over 50 euros, decent quality and hopefully long life. A journey to the local Media Market, telling the sales person, she recommended Redmi Buds 4 Lite from Xiaomi.

REDMI Earbuds


My take on the budget buds after a month usage, yes they are well worth the 20 euros price. Sound quality is fine, easy to pair with devices. The touch control functions are responsive, just tap on the bud.


The Redmi Buds do not have noise cancellation, which could be a bummer in a fitness studio, however, the sound quality and volume were limited but not a deal killer. The in-ear buds fit is snug, I had no problems with a piece falling out during two hour works. The connection was solid, never lost the Bluetooth signal.


Battery life has been reported a five-hour duration. The sound cues tell the user when to recharge in the small case. Also, the smartphone connection indicated the amount of charge on each bud.

I only used the microphone once, passable for connected conversations.
If a buyer thinks the low price means cheap, far from the truth, consider it twenty euros well spent.


Final Words: Redmi Buds 4 Lite are WORTH A BUY

For all the latest news and reviews from IFA 2023 starting August 30th, keep checking here.

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Technology

Evolve 2-40-My WorkHorse

The New Year opened with yet another lockdown. The world is now working from home. A dramatic shift from going to the office to living room then being linked to colleagues via Zoom. The New Normal makes connected tech more important.

My headphone of choice these days has been the Jabra Evolve2-40. Positioned as an office headset, I use the device everyday all the time at home for conferences, interviews and teaching. The Evolve quickly evolved into my normal day workhouse device. 

  • Mute Light
  • Evolve 2-40
  • Control Buttons
  • Mic
  • Carrying Case

Comfort

As an instructor, I have classes up to 3 straight hours with students. Comfort is a must for headgear. The cushions and headband feel nice, not getting hot on the ears or head after a long period of time.

I can feel the care for design with the weight and material quality. The Evolve 2-40 ear cups are lightweight foam that don’t sweat. The oval form earphone cups pivot easily adjusted for personal fit. 

On the right side there are control buttons for sound, play music and answering online calls.

The swivel microphone is easy to use. The red light on the USB port alerts me when the mic is mute. Having two people in a small place home doing home office tasks is challenging. The Evolve 2-40 is equipped with noise isolation technology. This enables me to work while the other person in the room is having his digital work conferences. 

  • Soft Ear Cups
  • USB Connect

Connectivity is easy either with USB-A or USB-C connections.

The one disadvantage of the USB connection is the incompatibility with my tech devices. I had to carry a second set of headphones.

The Evolve 2-40 comes with a black carry case for travel.

After everyday usage, my conclusion on the Jabra Evolve 2-40 is as a headset offers premium sound quality. Jabra may not be a household name compared its competitors, but this has not stopped the brand from making an excellent device worthing of attention.

Check local stores for availability or go to Jabra.com

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Technology

Tech Review

What did Steve think of the affordable Monolith Headphones? 

The Monolith Headsets kit on display. 

First, the Monolith M300 Planar Headphone set is sumptuously packaged in a deluxe black box that slides out to reveal a leather case with Velcro closure containing a heavy duty plastic headphone with long nylon cable, and metal adaptor. There are also different size plastic ear hooks included which offer adaptability to the user. However, they’re not so flexible.  The pieces have a sense of breaking easily which could lead to the trouble of finding more durable replacements. Also included are no less than four sets of ear plugs for added comfort. Overall, the aesthetic is not exactly state of the art. Instead going more for endurance against wear and tear (despite the ear hooks) as opposed to a trend-setting look. The latter could have been easily achieved, perhaps Monolith is looking for an alternative appeal in the market. 

The sound performance, ultimately the most important aspect, is where the M300 Planar is at its most competitive. Whether it is on the Laptop, Smart Phone or Amplifier.  There is a definitively balanced, detailed and spacious stereo soundscape clarity which elevates it to the level of a practical choice at mid-price level and should ensure customer satisfaction. Compared to other headphones in its price range there is a conspicuously louder and more balanced sound, layered in its frequency while very harmonious on the ear. Overall, if its sound first and foremost the user is looking for, then the M300 Planar does well against its competitors.

Where the headsets falter is the heavy black nylon cable with bolt-like adaptor.  This is reminiscent of an old electric guitar lead.  It might not be everyone’s choice, particularly to youth buyers.

By Steven Yates is a Black and Paper contributor.

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Technology

Affordable Listening

Skullcandy Ink’d Wireless Bluetooth Headphones

The first thing you notice about these Skullcandy Ink’d wireless Bluetooth headphones is how light they are. Initially this can give the impression of them being cheap and disposable. But you will soon find that the opposite is true and the design grows on you. They are a flexible collar-style fit and extremely comfortable. What’s more, after a short while you barely feel that you are wearing them. This makes it easy to go about your daily duties, at work or jogging in the park, with ease. The slim low-profile design means not attracting attention. They easily blend in to whatever you are wearing.  

As for the quality, Skullcandy’s Ink’d is a consistently decent sound quality that compliments its already comfortable design fit. For one, it avoids the treble and bass push you get from many contemporary headphones so has a balanced decent clarity sound in the midrange. The drawback on reduction in bass means these aren’t going to be the greatest headphones for every type of music. However, it still competes well against other neckband-style Bluetooth headphones on offer. 

It also functions as a headset for making and receiving cellphone calls with an instant pause on the music as notification. The integrated remote is on the left side of the neckband and the controls are large and easy to operate by touch. When fully charged, the battery life is somewhere around seven hours which is pretty good. Perhaps the only drawback is that it’s missing extra features like magnetized buds and there’s also no way to adjust the cord lengths. Overall though, better than it looks and definitely competitive in its price range. 

By Steven Yates

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Fashion Technology

An IFA 2018 Highlight

A Headset Conversation

Sponsored by Canon Camera/Werbung 

I had an interesting conversation at IFA 2018 with a audiophile. This journalist writes about audio products, in particular headphones. German audio group Beyerdynamic just introduced a new entry level in ear set for 25 euros. It is a curious move for the high-end label which retails headsets at 1200 euros. The bottom to middle range market is competitive. This move was about introducing the brand to a younger crowd in the hopes of attracting long term loyalty. Saying they are aimed at a young group with their bright orange color as well the sound range is meant for pop music.

Going Youthful and colourful

At the top end clients tend to be loyal to one brand, expecting a very specific sound quality.

I have not used the new in ear set yet. The audio writer gave the Beyerdynamic pair a good review, “well designed” and “comfortable”. .

We started talking about the ear buds. Many brands have new models. Our discussion turned to Apple AirPods. His review was than stellar, saying they lacked real sound quality. This is coming form a guy working on a MacBook attached to iPhone with an iPad in the bag. CALL THE STEVE JOBS POLICE! A fan is going ROGUE on an Apple product. I proceeded with caution in my questioning, trying to hide my shock. The story I was told at the press table, “people are buying into the concept”, not the quality of the product or the sound. Walking down the street with white plastic dripping from the ears looking “ultra in” at 180 euros a pop, the price you pay for being a part of tech first adapter. A pair of 20 euros headphones with cord will do a better job or even a lower price cordless set. You learn something new everyday, especially at IFA.

I will let you know what I think of my new in ear Byerdynamic headsets shortly.

Categories
Fashion

Marshall Major III: A Tech Review

Marshall Major III Bluetooth Headphone

Headphones are objects of tech popularity. Black is the new Black with centered white letters is the latest style trend in my fitness circle. While at the gym I noticed a number of members using Marshall’s. The connected fit sect has moved on to a new brand. Bold colored head devices with a stylized “b” are not longer favored judging by my daily observations on the treadmill.

The Marshall Major III Bluetooth over ear headphones look good. On the box it says “30+ hours of wireless playtime.” Does it live to the hype? It was hard for me to disprove. I used the headphones without charging for 24 hours.  When the device is low on power, there is an audio tone.  The recharging time was fast.  A red light on the right ear pad indicates charging.  A white light means full.


 A high tech device but simple to use. The left side gold colored button the left side controls volume, bluetooth connection, change tracks, respond to calls. Connecting to Bluetooth was easy, the connection was constant, no problems or interruptions, whether wearing them while walking around my flat or roaming a large workspace.

On an aesthetic level the Major III is designed with comfort for long term use. The weight is 180 grams or 6.28 oz.The square shaped ear cups feel nice, each side is labeled “LEFT”, “RIGHT”.

The sound quality is good in wireless mode. A cord, with microphone, are included for connected activity. As well, there is a charging cable.  

If you have been following me, you know I am not a fan of overt branding on items I wear. I am not being paid to be a walking billboard. But with headphone gear, wearing branded devices over your ears represent you are a part of a club The cursive logo brand “Marshall” is on the ear cups.

Marshall III

Overall, I understand why the Marshall III is popular at my gym.  The headset is a combination of dependability and style.

Price is $79 dollars online at www.marshall.com

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Technology

IFA 2017 Press Days 1

Black and Paper Highlights from IFA Press Day 1 August 30th.

So much to see and experience today from the world’s largest consumer tech fair, connected houses, smart devices, and wireless were the themes of the day.

Skullcandy introduced a new series of premium but affordable headphones.  Sleek, soft, and wireless, the Hesh listening devices have  long battery life.

Miele says it has taken cooking to the next level with The Dialog oven centered-on M Chef Technology.    The appliance offers 70% faster cooking time than regular ovens.  The Dialog can cook an entire meal at once; meat, green vegetables, and potatoes.  M Chef is an electromagnetic wave system that communicates with the food texture.  According to the company, food is cooked harmoniously resulting in better tasty meals.

Bang & Oluffsen’s Beosound Shape, a wireless speaker system with a bespoke design element for the wall with noise dampers.  The speaker’s fittings are wall mounted but in an unobtrusive manner.   As a music lover, I liked what I heard.

Robert Bosch introduced high end connected products the healthy mixer was a highlight.

Siemens displayed a connected home with a control panel from an automobile.

IFA is a yearly consumer electronics tradeshow in Berlin, Germany.

Images powered by Canon G7X

Categories
Technology

IFA 2017

IFA 2017 starts tomorrow.

Highlights for Black and Paper Day 1 of Press Dates

Siemens

Miele

Asus

Skullcandy

Bang Olufusen

Connectivity is the ongoing trend along with VR technology.   Stay tuned for more details.

Categories
Technology

IFA

 

IFA16 Highlights

Bang and Olufsen

Futuristic minimalism in the shape of a cone from Bang and Olufsen, always known for superior sound quality, the brand played to its strength by introducing two wireless 360 degree speaker designs, the small BeoSound 1 and larger BeoSound 2.  Both are rechargeable with a battery life of 16 hours.   The shining models stuck out but I liked the softer toned ones.

Sphero

Star Wars Fans will have hours of fun with the motion controlled BB8 droid.   The wrist band enables the user to push and pull the droid with arm gestures.  The app describes in details how to full use the small robot.   I saw a demonstration.  It could get addictive, connective toys are the future.

Aedle

Designed and made in Paris, Aedle headphones are for those looking for a subtler but higher style quality with headphone gear.  Constructed with fine leather and other materials there are two choices to choose, over ear or in-ear, both are elegant.   When I travel to Paris I will interview the team behind the brand.

Philips

The consumer brand giant had two products we liked.  The new Innergizer blender can mix anything in a moment.  The second appliance we played with was the Air Cooker, no grease, or oil is needed, all is done by recycled hot air even French Fries.

ZTE

Affordable high end smartphone from the ZTE with Axom 7 mini, a smaller version of the company’s flagship phone but still packing a punch using Android 6.0  OS featuring a 5.2 inch screen, all metal body and curved designed. it delivers a number of good features without breaking the bank including  Dolby Speakers and a 16 megapixel camera.

Huawei

I handled the phone, it is smooth and stylish but what attracted me the most were the colors blue and red.  It is slim and light with a Leica camera.  I have not tested the device yet but soon.

Honorable Mentions

SkullCandy

Skullcandy’s New Crusher Wireless headphones looked nice.  A good accessory for the street wear looks. Check back here for a review.

AfterShockz

I am testing their new sportswear wireless headsets, so far so good.  Check back for the full review.

Xtorm

A better source of mobile recharging, the company improved the capacity of this year’s power bank models while retaining an attractive design. (See our upcoming video)

Samsonite

Added new class to their collection with a slim wireless power bank fitted for a 15 inch laptop integrated into a travel backpack.

Dbramante1928

Affordable leather carrying  cases designed in Denmark for every tech device.  The material is sourced from India.

Fossil

A company introduced a number of wearables this year to track and monitor all activity.  We are using one now.  See the upcoming review.

Keep checking back for more reviews and interviews on tech.

 

Categories
Technology

IFA 2016

IFA 2016 Highlights

YEVO

An intriguing product was the Yevo 1 smart wireless headphones.  These small, futuristic earbuds reminded me of Lt. Uhura’s ear piece from Star Trek, with touch control, 20 hour battery life and a microphone. There is a noise cancellation feature.  We did not test them but I will keep you posted.

MONSTER (Showstoppers)

New generation of headphones and a modern take on the 70’s Boom Box, with the Monster Blaster was on display this season from Monster.  The on ear head devices are equipped with hi resolution audio, Bluetooth, swipe control, and direct digital capabilities.  Monster Blaster has 24 hour battery life built, in microphones. It is good for indoor and outdoor settings.

TCL

Another interesting take on a tablet entering the market has been introduced by TCL.  The Aess is an Android tablet/pc hybrid with either 15.6 or 17 inch screen capable of being positioned in four angles.  Easy for Multi-tasking with voice, gesture control and stylus.

UVIFY and Vuzix (Showstoppers)

Connected to the Vuzix VR helmet the Uvify racing drone is made for the ultimate leave your body experience.  It looks veracious. Camera, detachable arms, and fast battery charge are included.

Vuzix Iwear has a high level of video and audio performance.   The headgear is lightweight with options for complete immersion.   A high pixel number means images are sharp with good resolution.  Sound is clear.  I watched Kung Fu Panda.

The UVIFY cockpit and Vuzix headsets were connected when I tested them.  I wanted to FLY!!!!

LIFEPACK (Showstoppers)

A Solar Powered, anti-theft backpack, Lifepack, from Swedish brand Solgaard integrates a Solor bank, lock in a rugged, sleek carry bag.  The solar powered battery can be recharged in the sun, for a full charge, 4 hours is needed. Intelligent features include; Bluetooth speakers retractable locks on the zippers, drop proof laptop storage, work and personal zone and rain cover.

Stay tuned for more updates