#3-speed turntable

[reeldealtv]

The Rise and Return of the Vinyl Record Player: A Nostalgic Journey Meets Modern Technology

In the era of digital music, where streaming services and digital downloads reign supreme, there’s a surprising trend that’s capturing the hearts of music lovers worldwide – the resurgence of the vinyl record player. This comeback isn’t just a fleeting fad; it’s a testament to the timeless appeal of vinyl records. In this post, we’ll explore the history of vinyl record players, the reasons behind…

[beomie3]

txt on girlfriend day :3 (summer edition)

bf!txt x fem!reader (mostly fluff, some suggestive material)

⭐️ soobin

soob takes you camping!!

he is such a granola bf lolz, he literally knows everything about how to survive in the wild and you find it so attractive 🤭

he sets the tent up and lets you help him if you want, but mostly he wants his gf to relax in the shade, not overworking herself on her special day <3

"you deserve princess treatment every day of course," he pecks you on the cheek, interlacing his fingers with yours while you rock on the hammock together. "but today you are the queen of the entire universe!" he starts kissing your face everywhere and it soon escalates to a tickle fight.

once the tent is set up by the shore, you walk over to the dock which of course results in jumping into the lake together, fingers interlaced.

"three! two...!" and before he reaches one you're already running full speed towards the edge of the dock, pulling you along with him. you both reunite underwater, coming up for a breath only to meet your lips together and literally could not break them apart ^3^

after drying off, the two of you roast marshmallows as the sun sets, making smores for one another! he made you as many smores until your heart's content. "my baby needs to eat as much as she wants!" he loved seeing the look on your face when you took a bite like it was the best thing you'd ever tasted.

once it was dark and crickets chirped, the two of you got cozy in the tent under thick blankets, only the lantern's warm lighting illuminating his face as you looked into his dark brown eyes. he told you the story of the day he fell in love with you as he held you in his arms, his voice soothing you like no other.

a kiss turned into another, which turned into another, which then turned into a makeout, and then his shirt was off, and then the lantern was turned off and that's when you knew tonight would be an extra special night ;)

(currently working on turning this into a full fic! :P)

⭐️ yeonjun

junie takes you clothing shopping 😋

but first, he wakes you up with snuggles, (really passionate morning sex), and your favorite latte that he took the time to perfectly prepare before you awoke.

you both wear matching outfits ofc hehe.

he takes you to your favorite clothing stores. "get anything you want baby," he kisses the side of your neck before leaving the car and if you didn't have self-control you'd want him to rip your clothes off here and now :p

he always works so hard to be able to get you whatever you need and want, of course there is no problem spending it all on you!!

as someone with impeccable fashion sense, he helps you pick out some summer outfits that he had in mind.

he cannot contain his big grin when you walk out of the fitting room wearing the prettiest outfit ever! he is literally so grateful to have such a beauty like you <3

let's not forget, he also takes you to plenty of lingerie stores and you two have lots of fun there ;)

"this one is for tonight," you wink at him as you hold a red lace piece against your body and his mind goes to unexplainable places.

"can't wait to take it off of you," he whispers in your ear and the tension is already through the roof and you cannot wait to get home.

once you get home from dinner, you get straight to it and boy is it hot ;)

⭐️ beomgyu

you and gyu stay the weekend at your beach house :)

you two had met as kids and grew up together. you crossed paths because both of your families owned beach houses right next to each other! he was always the boy next door <3

anyway, it’s ten years later and you both now own one of the houses together as a vacation home. the two of you love to spend weekend getaways here!

you chase each other around the beach like you're young all over again, falling in love over and over and over again.

you go to the farmers market together and pick fresh groceries for tonight's dinner he is cooking for you :)

you get home, put a record on the turntable, and cook together. you sip red wine, slow dancing in the kitchen as the spaghetti noodles boil.

he serves your plate, carefully using spaghetti sauce to write "happy gf day baby <3" on the side of your plate and your heart melts.

dinner is so yummy and you eat it on the balcony, just watching the sun disappear beyond the horizon, feeling the damp ocean wind comb through your hair.

"you have some red sauce here!" you wipe his lip with your thumb and he wants nothing but to kiss you all over.

he carries you upstaris after dinner once the sun completely sets, laying you down on the queen bed you both share.

he wanted to do so much for you; run you a bath, give you a massage, sing you a song.. but right now, you could not keep your hands off of each other. your eyes said it all.

"i want to show you how much i love you," he whispered against your lips as he pulled you down down into the sheets with him.

(this is a snippet of the full version i've been writing that will be published soon!)

⭐️ taehyun

terry takes you to the national art museum in the city because he knows how much you love going to museums with him <3

he takes the cutest candid pics of you while you marvel over the paintings, sure to post them on his instagram and send them to his family���

he takes you out for boba after because how can it be a perfect day without boba??

plus he loves hearing when you compare his large shining eyes to boba pearls hehe.

you walk around a quaint park holding hands, stopping inside little shops and simply enjoying your time together.

he stops at a bench under a tree to get something from his bag. "i have something for you," he holds something behind his back. your face grows hot, stomach twisting with the question of what it might be.

he stretches out his hand, holding a small box, opening it to reveal a pink, sparkling promise ring. "i want to be with you foreve-" he barely gets his words out before you've jumped into his arms, squeezing his strong frame as hard as you could.

tears stain your cheeks. you cannot contain how grateful you are to have such an amazing boy in your life <3

" i want to be with you forever, tae," and you share the sweetest kiss. he's sure to take over 100 pictures of you with your new sparkly ring on too :)

⭐️ huening kai

kai takes you on a drive but you have no idea where he is taking you!

the car ride consists of you blasting music and singing your hearts out, listening to his amazing vocals. you could seriously listen to him sing all day.

you arrive at the spot; atop a tall hill and looking over the entire city. its golden hour, the sun is starting to set and he looks so beautiful in the orange-yellow light.

"close your eyes!" he yells once he leads you out of the car and you hear him rummaging around in the back seat.

you open your eyes when he tells you to as he pops open the trunk of his suv and behold! the cutest arrangement of things decorate large space.

fairy lights adorn the sign he made you reading "happy girlfriend's day to the best girl in the entire planet and universe!!!" with a bunch of colorful hearts and cute emojis he attempted to draw.

there are pillows and blankets and a basket of your favorite candies. he also got you plushies and packed a picnic of your favorite fast food because he just had to.

the two of you sat in the trunk eating an arrangement of your favorite food, candy, and soda. a bit unhealthy, but it’s your special treat that he knows you had been craving it the entire week.

after eating, you lay on top of his car watching the stars, sharing little kisses and giggling over inside jokes.

he hands you a small jar in which you discover holds tons of little pieces of paper. you read them one at a time. your eyes begin to well.

he had written over 100 different things he loves about you on each piece of paper.

"kai," you look at him, tears welling your eyes.

a million i love you’s are what you expressed through the tightest embrace.

note: each and every one of you are so so special, treat yourself to a little something today :) here is a little treat, i <3 you!! also, please let me know if you’d like me to turn any of these into full length stories💓

[legacysat]

Thorens TD 520 3-Speed Precision Belt-Drive Turntable, 1985

[lxh-arts]

Biu Kitchen - Strawberry Cake

\(✪◇✪)/BIU蛋糕🍰

Recipe below the cut

Cake ingredients

Eggs 200 g

Caster sugar 100 g

Corn oil 65 g

Cake flour 65 g

Baking powder 3 g

Almond flour 65 g

*Recipe uses a 7-inch cake pan

Strawberry cream

Whipping cream 650 g

Caster sugar 65 g

Strawberries 500 g

Strawberry jam 30 g

Mascarpone cheese 130 g

Food color powder 0.5 g

Butter cookies

Unsalted butter 50 g

Powdered sugar 20 g

Cake flour 80 g

Salt 0.5 g

Food color as needed, chocolate pens in assorted colors

*Cookies can be decorated according to preference

Recipe

Step 1: Making the cake layers

Beat the eggs and caster sugar until fluffy. Add the corn oil and mix until combined. Separately, sift together the cake flour, baking powder, and almond flour.

Add the sifted dry ingredients to the egg mixture and mix to combine, pour the batter into the cake mold and bake in a preheated oven at 160°C for 35-40 min. After removing from oven, turn upside down to remove the cake from the mold and let cool on a cooling rack. Divide into 4 layers of equal thickness. Wrap in plastic wrap until ready to use.

Step 2: Making the strawberry cream

Prepare the strawberries by washing and slicing them. Mix together the whipping cream and mascarpone until thoroughly combined. Using a hand mixer at medium high speed, beat the whipping cream and mascarpone until fluffy.

Remove 200 g and beat the removed portion until stiff peaks form.

To the remaining whipped cream-mascarpone mixture, add the strawberry jam and food color powder and fold together with a spatula until well mixed.

Step 3: Making the decorative cookies

Soften the butter at room temperature. Add the powdered sugar, salt, and combined with spatula until well-mixed. Sift in the cake flour and mix with spatula. Add the food color to the dough and refrigerate until use.

Form into assorted shapes and bake at 135-140°C for about 30 minutes. During the last 10-15 min, cover with aluminum foil to prevent browning. Allow to cool after removing from oven, then decorate with chocolate pens.

Step 4: Decorating

Top a layer of the cake with a layer of mascarpone whipped cream, followed by a layer of strawberry slices, followed by a layer of mascarpone whipped cream. Repeat the sequence for 3 layers, then level the top of the cake using a decorating turntable or Lazy Susan. Using the pastry bag, decorate the cake with rosettes of uncolored whipped cream, with four strawberries placed on top. After adding the cookie decorations, refrigerate for half an hour. After that, it is ready to enjoy ~

[oliverreedmasterass]

Prologue | Chapter 1 | Chapter 2 | Chapter 3 | Chapter 4 | Chapter 5 | Interlude | Chapter 6 | Chapter 7 | Second Interlude | Chapter 8 | Chapter 9 | Chapter 10 | Chapter 11 | Chapter 12 | Epilogue

Chapter Summary: Rae's first day at her new school ends up being worse than she could have ever imagined.

Words: 3.2k

Warnings: language, mentions of missing people, leukemia

Notes: Thank you to @infinisonicosm for the fic idea!!

-----------------------------------------------------

Rae didn’t text Jake. Instead she remained trapped in the confines of her new home, doing anything she could to keep her mind off Jake and whatever his deal was. Whenever her mind wandered to him and Sam and Josh and Sam’s friend, she put a new record on her turntable and cranked the volume all the way up to drown out her thoughts. Occasionally she’d peer out her window, worried she would see Jake standing down on the sidewalk, but he was never there. Maybe he understood that he had crossed a line. 

Monday rolled around a lot faster than Rae liked. That morning she woke up with anxiety churning in her stomach, her brain already thinking of viable excuses to get out of walking through the front doors of the high school. She didn’t want Jake to confront her about not contacting him, she didn’t want Josh to talk to her in his icy voice, and she didn’t want to be the new kid in school. She yearned to be back in Folsom, surrounded by her long-time friends, going to a school that was big enough that it was impossible to stand out. Rae liked staying tucked in the background for the most part, but it seemed like that was going to be a challenge in this small town. 

Despite wanting to stay in bed for the rest of her life, Rae forced herself downstairs to the kitchen where she could fix herself a bowl of Honey Nut Cheerios. Morgan was already there, shoving the pack of tampons that Rae had given him into the front pouch of his brand new backpack. 

“You ready for your first day?” Rae could do nothing to make herself sound enthusiastic. 

“Much more than you are,” Morgan chirped back. He dropped his backpack by his feet and redirected his attention back to a bowl of yogurt and fruit that he had fixed for himself. “I’m ready for a new start.” 

Rae shrugged. “That’s a nice way to think about it.”

“I’m gonna tell people my uncle is Vin Diesel.” 

“Thanks for letting me know so I can back you up on that one.” 

Rae and Morgan’s father drove them to Frankenmuth High even though it was only a fifteen minute walk away. Rae knew it was because he didn’t want Morgan to over-exert himself, but she also appreciated that it lowered the chances of her running into Jake. What she hadn’t expected, though, was for Jake and Sam to be standing at the front steps of Frankenmuth High, scanning around for her. 

Jake perked up at the sight of Rae as she slid out of the backseat with her head down, and rushed to her side. 

“I was worried something happened to you,” he greeted her, looking relieved. 

Behind him, Sam shook Morgan’s hand and introduced himself. 

“I don’t want to talk to you,” Rae told Jake under her breath. Jake backed away from her in shock. 

“Huh? What did I do?” He didn’t sound angry, just baffled. 

“It doesn’t matter,” Rae was short. She was having a lot of trouble looking him in the eyes. “Just, leave me alone.” 

“Rae, wait,” Jake said, but Rae was already hurrying through the front doors. Morgan had been in the middle of chatting with Sam about Michigan sports teams, but he rushed to catch up to Rae when he saw her speed away. Once they entered the crowded hallway, he reached out and put a soft hand on her shoulder to slow her down. 

“You good?” 

“I hope.” 

Rae was a bit disappointed that she didn’t have someone to show her around the campus so she wasn’t aimlessly wandering around, but she was also relieved to be away from Jake. Her morning was relatively mellow: she liked her teachers well enough and met a few classmates who seemed kind. Things were starting to feel like they could maybe be normal, which was a relief. 

Rae strolled out of her US history class and searched around to find a place where she could relax during their ten minute break. She settled for a bench that overlooked some outdoor basketball courts and slid her backpack off to retrieve a snack. While she fished around her messy bag, she hoped that Morgan was doing well and making friends. She hadn’t seen him since they went their separate ways for their first period classes, but she felt a knot form in her stomach at the thought that Morgan was hanging around Sam. She unwrapped a breakfast bar and took a large bite as she considered the best way to tell Morgan he should stay away from that kid. A familiar voice spoke behind her. 

“Jake ditch you?” Rae’s arms broke out in goosebumps. She slowly turned back and was face to face with Josh, who was smirking at her. She sealed her lips shut and shook her head in the hopes that was enough to get him to go away. It was not. Josh joined her on the bench, notably making an effort to give her some space as he sat at the far end. “I feel like we started off on the wrong foot.” 

“You could say that,” Rae retorted, immediately regretting that she had engaged with him in conversation. He was going to stick around now. 

“I don’t know what Jake told you, but I’m really not a bad guy,” Josh’s tone was warmer, the chill gone. “If anything, you should probably steer clear of him.” 

“Trust me, I am.” 

Josh looked intrigued. “He must have really screwed things up.” 

Rae knew that she shouldn’t say anything but, at the same time, she was curious if Josh had any insights about Jake to help her understand what she was dealing with. 

“He’s just, I don’t know, kinda weird?” Rae started. 

Josh gave a merry laugh. “That’s one way to describe him.” 

“He was really nice to me, don’t get me wrong but, I don’t know, I think it would be best if I kept my distance.” 

“What did he do?” 

“He, uh, showed up at my house. I never told him where I live.” 

Josh’s face was scrunched in a mixture of confusion and disturbance. 

“Fuckin weirdo,” he murmured. 

“Okay, good, I’m glad I’m not overreacting,” Rae breathed out a sigh of relief. Morgan hadn’t been nearly as troubled as she felt after Jake left the other night. He reasoned that Jake must have known the area well, and was aware that their house had recently been bought. Rae attempted to convince him to think otherwise, but she found that it was challenging for her to find the right words to describe why she was suddenly so nervous about Jake. Explaining that it was another “gut feeling” wasn’t enough to get Morgan on board. 

He just kept repeating, “He seems like a nice guy.” 

“No, he’s got to respect your territory,” Josh spoke, starting to look fired up. Rae regretted saying anything to him. “He should know that, of all people.” 

“What does that mean?” Rae was desperate for answers. “Does this have something to do with your beef?” 

“You could say that.” 

“Could you say more? Because I’m getting really tired of the cryptic talk. I just want to know what the hell is going on with you guys and this freaky town.” 

Josh shot her an apologetic smile and shook his head. “That’s a can of worms you don’t want to open, sorry.” 

Rae wanted to protest that that was actually exactly what she wanted to do, but the warning bell rang, indicating that they had to make their way to their third period class. 

“Where are you headed?” Josh asked. Rae was thrown off by how kind he was being to her. She wondered if he had any ulterior motives. 

“Biology,” she answered with caution. 

“With Mr. Dalton?” 

“Uh huh.” 

“Cool, I’ll walk you there.” 

Rae didn’t protest as Josh popped to his feet and waited for her to gather her things. They set off for the far end of the school, where the labs were tucked away, and Josh attempted to make some friendly small talk. 

“Where are you from, new girl?” 

“California.” 

Josh let out a long whistle. “Frankenmuth is one hell of a downgrade.” 

Rae attempted to break the news to Josh as quickly as possible, like ripping off a bandaid. “We moved so my younger brother could start chemo; he’s got leukemia.”

A look of sadness washed over Josh’s face. “I’m so sorry to hear that.” 

“It is what it is.” 

“But still, it’s shitty.” Josh stopped, and looked to be thinking hard. He sounded out his next words like he wasn’t sure if he should be speaking them aloud. “I know a thing or two about leukemia, I might be able to offer some help.”  

Rae raised an eyebrow. “What do you know about leukemia?” 

“My, uh, mom is in the medical field. She specializes in that kind of stuff. You know, blood.” 

“That’s cool,” Rae trailed off. She wasn’t quite sure what Josh was offering her, but she figured to leave it at that for the time being. She knew Morgan wouldn’t be happy that she was telling classmates about his illness; he had made it pretty clear that he wanted to have as normal of a high school experience as he could. But, then again, it seemed like a good chance to get a second opinion on how to make sure Morgan bounced back. “I mean, if it’s not out of you or your mom’s way, that would be nice.” 

“For sure,” Josh nodded. He reached into his back pocket and retrieved an older iPhone that made Rae do a double take. She hadn’t seen that generation iPhone in well over 5 years. Josh unlocked it quickly with a 6 digit passcode and went into his contacts. “Give me your number and I’ll hit you up.” 

Rae looked down at the phone, blew out a “eh, what the hell?” sigh, and grabbed it from him so she could put in her number. So maybe two weird guys who had some strange conflict between each other having her phone number wasn’t great, but what was the worst that could happen?

As she tapped her fingers over his phone screen, she saw Jake approaching them out of the corner of her eye and immediately tensed. He seemed to slow down at the sight of Rae and Josh, but then he put his head down and powered away. Rae could feel her shoulders drop in relief that Jake had chosen not to make a scene, though she still felt on edge. 

She handed Josh his phone back, and he scanned over her number to make sure that it looked legit. The minute warning bell sounded above them and Josh held up the hand that was carrying his phone in a wave to Rae. 

“I better go,” Josh excused himself, nodding back in the direction they had come from, completely oblivious to Jake’s recent presence. “I don’t want to be tardy for English on the first day. You know, I gotta make a good first impression.” 

“You could learn a thing or two about getting better at that,” Rae found the words escaping from her mouth before she could stop them. That made Josh stop but, instead of frowning, he let out a jovial laugh. 

“You’re not wrong,” he agreed, and then was on his way. Rae shook her head, still struggling to believe the strange triangle she had found herself trapped in, and stepped foot in her biology class. 

School let out at 3:45 and, even though Rae’s dad was parked out front to pick her and Morgan up, Rae opted to walk home instead. She needed some space to reflect on her day before her parents started to hound her, demanding to know how her first day went, and how many new friends she had made. Rae had to find the right way to tell them that the people she met were nice, but she had eaten lunch alone. A part of her had expected Jake to come back around to talk to her during their break, but he was nowhere to be seen. She wondered where he had been hiding. 

Rae waved goodbye to her dad and Morgan, sending them off so she could be on her own, and then trudged in the direction of their house. The humid air made her feel sluggish in her steps, and the searing sun overhead left sweat dripping down the sides of her face. Rae wiped the perspiration away with the back of her hand and made a small grunt of disapproval. She was going to enjoy a tall glass of lemonade when she got home. 

She hurried her pace at the thought of the refreshing treat, and pondered who she could befriend to distance herself from Jake and Josh. There was a girl who sat behind her in orchestra class that seemed shy, but nice. Rae made a mental note to formally introduce herself the next day and ask if they could eat together. She hoped the girl didn’t speak in codes like Jake and Josh seemed to. 

Rae was nearly to the edge of the campus and the students around her started thinning out, moving in all different directions to get to their respective homes. Rae only saw the long stretch of sidewalk ahead of her and focused on trying to pinpoint where it ended. There was no end in sight. 

“What the fuck?” she heard a voice bark to her right, which made her slow down. She hated how nosy she could be sometimes. 

Lo and behold, maybe about thirty feet away in front of the chain link fence that wrapped around the exterior of the school’s baseball diamond, Jake and Josh were standing in close confrontation. It looked like Josh had been the one to instigate things because he was hovering over Jake, his hands balled into tight fists ready to strike at any moment. In comparison, Jake’s eyes darted around, looking for an escape route. Rae was entirely stopped, gaping at the scene in front of her, but neither Jake nor Josh seemed to notice her. 

“You just showed up at her house?” Josh’s voice raised. “What were you thinking?” 

Shit, Rae thought as her stomach dropped. They’re talking about me. 

So, like any rational person would do, Rae crept closer to the two boys and ducked behind a tall oak tree to keep out of sight while listening in. 

“I wasn’t thinking, okay?” Jake pleaded, trying to get Josh to calm down. “I admit that was stupid. But she’s not talking to me anymore, so you should be happy.” 

“I don’t think you understand the magnitude of the situation,” Josh’s voice quieted, speaking through grit teeth. Rae had to lean closer to make out what was said next. “She’s speculating about us. She’s gonna find out.” 

Rae’s heart thundered in her chest. 

“She won’t,” Jake’s confidence was obviously wavering as his words raised into more of a question than a firm statement. Josh immediately picked up on this. 

“Look, I fucking hate you, and you hate me. But this is something we’ve got to work together on. The normies can’t know, that’s the agreement. You, of all people, should know that.”

“Don’t you dare bring that up,” Jake hissed. 

“I don’t know how you haven’t been thrown out of town,” Josh was off and running. “If your dad wasn’t so popular, you’d be dumped in the woods by your own kind, left to fend for yourself.”

“I know you wish that’s where I was,” Jake’s voice quaked with rage. 

Josh let out a taunting laugh. “It’s where you belong.” 

Rae peeked around the tree and saw Jake swinging his fist back, ready to make contact with Josh, who was glaring back at Jake with discontent. Jake would have slammed his fist into Josh’s nose if Sam hadn’t run up behind him and pinned his arms behind his back. Jake called out in shock at his brother’s sudden appearance and wiggled around to try and break free. Josh took a few steps back to steer clear of Jake’s flailing, and watched the two siblings wrestle with each other. 

“Sam!” Jake was out of breath. “Get off me!” 

Although he looked like a twig, Sam somehow managed to hold onto his brother tight, keeping him from tearing out of his grasp to tackle Josh. 

“Listen to me!” Sam’s voice cracked. Jake continued yelling at Sam to let him go. 

“I think I’m gonna dip,” Josh cut in, having a hard time hiding how tickled he was by the sight of Jake being held back by his kid brother. 

Sam looked over Jake’s head and pointed at Josh. “No! This concerns you too.” 

Sam’s words rocketed from his lips and shocked Josh in place. He gaped at Sam, his body stiffened into a frozen pose. Jake had grown limp in Sam’s arms, so Sam released him from his grasp and pushed him off so Jake and Josh were standing side by side, facing the young boy. 

“Someone stole Danny’s backpack from me.” 

“Fuck!” Jake exclaimed, still riled up from everything.  

“I have no clue who did it,” Sam looked between Jake and Josh. “It was in my locker, they must have taken it after lunch. But word got to the higher ups and the mayor is pinning the blame on us. He’s saying we broke the agreement.” 

“What do we have to do with it?” Josh found his voice again and jabbed a thumb into his chest. 

“Don’t you see?” Sam sounded exasperated, “They see us all as a threat. It doesn’t matter that Danny is my best friend, it doesn’t matter that the one before Danny was one of us, none of that matters. They need a scapegoat, and they’ve decided it’s us.” 

“But it’s not you guys?” Josh checked with Sam. 

“The smells in that backpack, Josh, that’s not a vampire or a werewolf.”

Rae’s head was spinning. They were all crazy, every single one of them. Nothing made any sense, and she suddenly felt a tug in her stomach that she needed to get away, and fast. 

“We have to get out of here,” Jake echoed her sentiment as his head twisted around, trying to make sure that no one unwanted was close by. He sniffed a few times, and then raised an eyebrow. 

“Rae,” his voice hardened. “Get out from there.” 

Rae’s eyes darted around in a blind panic. How the fuck?  

“Rae,” Jake repeated himself with more force. Rae slowly stepped out from behind the tree, her breath hitched in her throat. “You heard everything, didn’t you?” Jake asked, his voice still firm. Rae nodded her head, and noted that Josh was gazing on at her with sadness. “We have to go. Now,” Jake repeated himself. Rae didn’t like that he was suddenly pointing at her. “And that includes you too.” 

“No way,” Rae shook her head hard. 

“Are you sure that’s a good idea?” Josh murmured to Jake. 

“She’s a part of this now,” Jake turned to look at Josh. 

Josh shrugged like there wasn’t much to argue, and Sam looked at Jake in panic. 

“What are we gonna do?” 

“Dad’s bar,” Jake decided. “We need to hide, and I need a quiet place to sort all this shit out.”

***

Taglist: @lvnterninthenight, @writingcold, @myownparadise96, @i-choose-the-road, @psychedelicsprinkles, @mama-likes72

[rickgentle]

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[printprizm3d]

Mastering the Art of 3D Scanning: Tips and Tricks for Optimal Results

3D scanning technology has revolutionized various industries, from e-commerce to healthcare. By capturing the physical world in digital form, 3D scanners offer unparalleled precision and detail. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your skills, this guide provides essential tips and tricks for mastering 3D scanning.

Understanding 3D Scanners

Before diving into tips, it's crucial to understand the types of 3D scanners available:

Laser Scanners: Use laser beams to measure the distance between the scanner and the object. They are highly accurate and ideal for detailed scans.

Structured Light Scanners: Project a pattern of light onto the object and capture the deformation of the pattern to create a 3D model. They are fast and suitable for a variety of surfaces.

Photogrammetry: Uses photographs from different angles to create a 3D model. This method is cost-effective but requires good lighting and a high-quality camera.

Contact Scanners: Physically touch the object to measure its dimensions. These are less common but very precise.

Tips and Tricks for Effective 3D Scanning

1. Choose the Right Scanner

Selecting the appropriate scanner for your needs is the first step. Consider factors like the object's size, required precision, surface texture, and budget. For instance, laser scanners are excellent for intricate details, while structured light scanners are better for larger objects.

2. Prepare the Object

Proper preparation of the object ensures a smoother scanning process:

Clean the Surface: Dust and dirt can interfere with the scan quality.

Apply Matting Spray: For shiny or reflective surfaces, use a matting spray to reduce glare and improve scan accuracy.

Stabilize the Object: Ensure the object is stable and won't move during scanning.

3. Optimal Lighting

Good lighting is crucial for photogrammetry and structured light scanners. Use diffuse lighting to minimize shadows and reflections. Avoid direct sunlight or harsh lighting, which can create unwanted glare.

4. Correct Positioning

Positioning the scanner and the object correctly is vital:

Maintain a Steady Distance: Keep a consistent distance between the scanner and the object.

Multiple Angles: Capture multiple angles to ensure all parts of the object are scanned. This is particularly important for photogrammetry.

5. Calibration and Testing

Regularly calibrate your scanner to maintain accuracy. Conduct test scans to ensure settings are optimal. Adjust the scanner's resolution and speed based on the object's complexity and desired detail level.

6. Use High-Quality Software

Post-processing software is as important as the scanner itself. Use reputable software to refine the scanned model, remove noise, and fill in any gaps. Some popular software options include:

MeshLab: Free and open-source, great for editing and processing 3D scans.

Blender: Powerful, free software with extensive features for 3D modeling.

Geomagic: Professional-grade software with advanced editing capabilities.

7. Patience and Practice

3D scanning is an art that requires patience and practice. Don’t be discouraged by initial failures. Experiment with different settings, angles, and techniques to improve your skills.

Common Challenges and Solutions

Problem: Incomplete Scans

Solution: Re-scan missing parts from different angles and merge the scans using software.

Problem: Poor Surface Detail

Solution: Increase the scanner's resolution or use a different scanning method.

Problem: Excessive Noise in the Scan

Solution: Use software tools to clean up the noise and smooth the model.

Advanced Tips

Use Turntables

For smaller objects, use a turntable to rotate the object smoothly during scanning. This ensures consistent coverage and saves time.

Leverage Markers

Place markers around the object to help the scanner track its position accurately, especially useful in large or complex scans.

Combine Scanning Methods

For comprehensive results, combine different scanning methods. For example, use a structured light scanner for the object's overall shape and a laser scanner for fine details.

Conclusion

Mastering 3D scanning involves selecting the right equipment, preparing adequately, and refining your technique through practice. By following these tips and tricks, you'll achieve high-quality 3D scans that can enhance your projects and applications. Remember, the key to success in 3D scanning lies in patience, experimentation, and continuous learning. Happy scanning!

[cassieuncaged]

Uneasy Alliance - Chapter 4

Chapter 3

Cassie Cage x Nyx

Summary: Kabal starts and investigation; Nyx finds being a traitor difficult.

TW: language, etc.

WC: 1.5K

Taglist: @roofgeese, @chadillacboseman, @theelderhazelnut, @quantum-lover, @elderglocks, @galaxycunt, @voidika, @spacestephh

Kabal started simple, zipping over to Nyx’s apartment. She liked to pretend no one knew where she lived but the fighter had been smuggled in a couple of times through the dark, taking note of the scenery under flickering street lights.

Thai Oasis.

The sign buzzed in dark blue neon, trying to attract late night customers while the windows above were mysteriously dark. For being a most feared assassin, she turned in for the night surprisingly early. Likely to water some wilting plants and feed a rambunctious ferret. There’s was a rusty fire escape sprawling up the side of the building like mechanical vines. Red eyes scanned it apprehensively, wondering if it would give beneath his weight. The back stairwell was too obvious.

With precision speed, he was beneath the protruding ladder within seconds, hoisting himself upwards like an olympian. Say what you want about underground fight clubs, it kept him agile for the resurrected old man he was. His muscles bulged as he thrust himself onto the grated platform. A leafy fern sat in the window, obscuring the inside though it was pitch black. No sign of life.

Thick fingers fell to the sill, tugging to find it jammed but open. Jiggling it upwards found the bottom pane sliding half up, rattling  in its frame. Kabal maneuvered his stocky body inside, knocking a pot to ground before rolling onto the hardwood floor.

So much for not making a spectacle. 

He waited a few moments, ear to the ground. There were no hurried footsteps or loud voices, just the clatter of dishes and the quiet din of laughter. No one had even noticed. No wonder Nyx enjoyed this place. Climbing to booted feet, he fumbled for the lightswitch, finding it illuminated by the orange street lights.

With a loud clack, the outdated fixture produced a warm flood of light, illuminating the cramp living room. Lucky for him, Nyx was pretty utilitarian where furniture and decor was concerned: the room only boasted a futon, a mess of plants, and an expensive turntable. Kabal sighed, a hiss echoing in the room as he removed his mask. Dark eyes scanned for anything out of place but found nothing.

Maybe she’d known Kano would send someone to hunt her like wild game. Nyx sure as fuck wasn’t someone to make his life easy. Kabal rounded on one heel, large hand pushing through stringy hair. The living room was obviously empty, so he moved to the bathroom. It was a mess, bottles of Manic Panic open and staining the sink, empty contact cases, medicine cabinet open to reveal a slew of different medications; likely for anxiety and bipolar disorder, both of which he knew she had. A slip of the tongue.

But nothing intriguing presented itself, just a pile of towels and purple striped panties strewn across black and white blocky linoleum that matched the kitchenette. The half ass investigation continued, leading to an equally messy bedroom. A mattress lay on the ground, fitted sheet unfurling itself off the corner. Misshapen pillows were tossed unceremoniously to the ground, glass of water balancing precariously atop the plastic/side table.

It wasn’t until then he realized how difficult it would be to do any digging in such a sty where everything was already misplaced. That was until something caught his eye: Ghost’s hulking cage settled on the floor. The door was open, wood chips sprinkled against a threadbare carpet.

She’d never be so careless with her closest companion.

“Shit.” The expletive was directed to empty room, realization hitting Kabal like a fucking tidal wave. Nyx had hit the bricks, and she’d done it without telling a boss who desperately needed anger management classes. It was like letting a viper out of your sight, never completely sure when it would be ready to strike.

Combat boots clodded against the floor, likely shaking the ceiling tiles below though he didn’t much give a shit now. Instead, the living room was broached slowly as Kabal ambled to the record player. It was likely more expensive than rent for the damned apartment. Cranking on the power, The Clash began to play.

Should I Stay or Should I Go.

“Fucking cute…” he mumbled to no once more before heading to the fridge. Nyx surely wouldn’t be there but a disgusting delicacy definitely was.

Cold Pizza.

……

Ghost chittered in her cage as Nyx waited for a soft knock to sound on her door. Despite being furnished with a bunk bed, she roomed alone. Fair enough for a criminal that extinguished lives for a living. Setting up shop at the pristine metal desk, a blank notebook was pulled from the drawer with a pen. She weighed it in her hand, enjoying how heavy it felt. Not unlike her kunai. She wondered if the pen could double as a weapon. She was being silly. Of course it could. Everything was a weapon, one she’d like to thrust into Cassie’s pretty blue eye.

“Knock, knock,” a voice broke her reverie followed by a resounding thud on the metal door. She hated how high tech and sterile Special Forces headquarters was, especially as the door slid open with a hiss.

“You don’t have to announce yourself,” she reprimanded Cassie, as looking up left her speechless, finding the blonde in a faded t-shirt and linen pajama shorts. Her legs went on for miles, surprisingly tan and toned though purple eyes quickly snapped to the pile of classified documents she held.

“Don’t want you to get too comfortable,” she shrugged, dropping the folders to the ground with a thud. “Especially while you’re doodling in your diary.”

“It’s not my-” Nyx stopped writing, before suddenly getting up and approaching the blonde. She shoved the notebook into her chest before plopping onto the linoleum floor. “Read that, you might find it useful.”

“What is this?” Blue eyes grew wide as she slid down onto her knees, flipping through lined pages. A list of codenames were jotted down, weakness and strengths noted by the names, how to avoid them, a sketch of an old warehouse, an inventory of weapons at their disposal, and, most importantly, Kano’s schedule.

“Everything I know about the Black Dragon. You wanna bag Kano? That’s how.” Nyx added, her own eyes on the pile of folders before her. The very same documents Sonya had during debriefing. “How’d you get these?”

“It’s not the first time I’ve borrowed from my mother.” she winked ruefully, obviously enjoying being a rebel.

“Stealing five bucks from her purse doesn’t count.” Nyx wet the tip of her finger, flipping through the confidential documents while the blonde studied her unlikely confidant. Her hair was parted down the middle, perfect curtains of black and white on either shoulder. For the first time in the three days they’d known each other, her face was devoid of thick makeup, revealing a more naturally pallid face instead of one covered in matte powder. She looked vulnerable, tooth digging into her lower lip.

“You’re a pain in my ass, y’know?” She mirrored the woman, opening the notebook. It was a treasure trove of information. “How many of these people do we need to take down to get to Kano?”

“We’re not going through them.” Nyx declared adamantly. “But we’ll need to get past them.”

“How will we find your underground fighting cohorts?” Cassie wasn’t exactly phased. She’d been to the Outworld, had known a plethora of super humans and fallen gods. Raiden could be summoned to this very room if she wanted.

“They’ll find us. If they want to.” her lavender irises dropped to the pile of manila folders. “But I don’t want them hurt. They’re the closest things I have to friends.”

“Not anymore.” Cassie chided, ponytail bouncing as she shook her head. “Once they find out you defected, they’ll all want you dead.”

“I know.” She snapped, knowing how much she was throwing away. But Kano had commiserated with Shao Kahn a devious plan that would end them all. Outworld would seep through the cracks and infect Earthrealm in the process. Like a supernatural parasite.

“Well, let’s take down that cyborg.” she thought for a moment. “We can pave the way for Special Forces. Make it a stealth mission. Heard you’re good at sinking into the shadows.”

“I am a shadow.” Nyx offered, exhausted. This was already taking the little energy she had. At least Ghost was along for the ride. “We can break into the compound, get a little more intel.”

“How are we going to do that, Wednesday?” She snickered at the predictable nickname, proud of herself.”

“They’ll know us, so we can’t exactly walk up to the front door. We need a distraction, a fighter who can hold their own.

“Jacqui.” A light bulb practically lit up above blonde hair. “She’s one hell of a fighter. Enough to keep your buddies busy while infiltrate the compound.”

“We’ll have to be stealthy. Think you can handle not being the center of attention for a moment.”

“I am my father’s daughter.” Cassie grinned proudly while Nyx’s mind reeled; that was the last answer she needed.

“We’re gonna get our asses handed to us.” The assassin groaned, knowing this mission was going weigh particularly heavy on her.

[turntabless]

🔮 la folie - the stranglers 🔮

welcome back to turntable takes, folks!!! hope everyone’s doing wonderfully <3 this week (said so very loosely. i underestimated how hard it would be to do them every week but that’s on ME!) we have a gem <3 i know 2 songs off of it and they constantly occupy my mind! so! if you’re checking this out, thank you!! and hope you enjoy <3 once again i am very musically illiterate and don’t know theory!! this is me going AWOOGA!!!

also i’m not including the bonus tracks off the reissue because i’m TIRED. SLEEPY EVEN. but they’re also really good!

genres: new wave, punk rock, baroque pop

non stop

okay immediately loving the lil tippy tappy drums with a little echo that fade in! cute lil organ lick that is so fun!! i’m also a big fan of talk-singing when done in a sexy way and this is that! GUITAR crunchy echoing bass coming in. OH those drums fuck. this is just so fun!!! very sarcastic singing its scratching my brain!! and the guitars are so cheeky. layered vocals crescendo in volume cute like harmonies??? ooooo stripping it back then speeding up going louder again is such a choice i love it here. CHANGING TEMPO let’s go!!!

everybody loves you when you’re dead

ohhhhhh god i love the keys intro here. bass is sexy and so clear and i’m in love. the odd pitches with the guitar is so nice ! yummy drums!!! synthy business! punky talk vocals with layering going on is so good and these lyrics kinda make me feel insane. god that keyboard part and odd wavering synth in the background is so nice. harsh cymbal type sounds YUM! PICK IT UP LETS GOOOO cute lil tempo change and then right back to it!! ohhhhh slow little breakdown descending in pitch

tramp

OHHHH. flat guitar really interesting here. WITH BUZZING KEYBOARD AND BASS ????? drums are really!!! OOOOOH an instrumental soundscape baby!!! i love these vocals he’s got a great voice very punky and when he pitches up it’s really pretty??? also love the return to the darker sounds during the chorus? BASSSSSSS AH GOD !!!!! love the speed and the experimental nature of the chorus !!! 80s video game synth yummy. there’s something so dancy about this and god the vibrato and INSANELY nice drums????

let me introduce you to the family

OH FAST DRUMS LETS GO!!! ooooo this bass? is it bass? descending thing is so intriguing! faaaast guitar playing a really fun ear catching riff that’s like. this really is so experimental here. okay there’s some freddie m rasp at some parts which are really interesting and then the harmonies and layering of the vocals in the chorus are crazy! that bass is so consistent and so clear and great!!! ohhhh switch up that RIFF babes!!! it’s all very like buzzy fuzzy yum! ohhh TURN up the volume on the vocals add another lil keyboard thing this is sooooooo intricate!! ECHO on the voice for the fade-out ending with a drum beat to end everything!

ain’t nothin’ to it

ohhhhh that guitar is yummy. drums go hard in this beginning. BASS I HEAR YOU BABY YOU SHINE!! these vocals are so fun and sassy!! oh that odd lil dissonance in parts of this song is so cool??? and the lil changes in riffs and pitches sound really cool <3 ohhhhh BREAKDOWN lets gooooooo!!!! fuck it up instrumental section!!! BASS AND DRUMS ONLY OH LETS GO!!! this is really cool i’m obsessed. ohhhhh????? ohhhhhhhhhhhhh guitar little staccato notes??? this repeating instrumental part is so intriguing colour feel taste wise??? it’s so dark and a little unsettling with the occasional flatness but it’s nice????

the man they love to hate

BUZZY KEYS LETS GO !!! god. goddddd. that bass goes so hard. ohhhh crunchy soar on that guitar is so nice. drums going HARD. echoing lil keys are fun!! talk vocals as always are so fun !!! PITCH UP LETS GO !!! uplift meeee !!! back to the really punchy instrumentals on top of those buzzy keys that add such an interesting texture!! some little sweeping synthy kind of cymbal effect? ohhhhh. this is so fun !!! also the little whispered backing vox are fuuuuucking scrumptious! oh jesus it’s getting darker babes…… in tone in lyrics and then right back to light???? what in the world how is this this way. GUITAR FUCK IT UP cute lil solo! ohhhhh PLAYING WITH SHADE AGAIN THIS IS SO…… those lowest instrumental notes are so deep and fat and intriguing.

pin up

fucking insane drums i love you. ohhh??? xylophone-esque twinkly keys? GUITAR THERE YOU ARE BABY! sounds crunchy and thin but in such an atmospheric way! the “oooohhh”s are really nice with the bit of reverb on it??? this is such a fun little song? those twinkly xylophone sounds are back i love!!! the instruments are so so good at melding together so that those lil keys are picked out of the fold so well???

it only takes two to tango

ohhhhhhhh this is such a fun little intro… i don’t know what the name of this stylistic choice is but it’s like someone swinging you around with the drums bass guitar and then you get layered talk vocals with a BEAUTIFUL ascending like… quartet harmony going on. this is so fun!!! warbling keys again they’re so good at atmospheric sounds here. also sorry those harmonies are needed inside my bloodstream stat! OH KEY CHANGE! uh ohhhhh bestie the dissonance is back in the vocals but not in the instrumental i kinda love the effect??? faaaaaaat guitar just swingin around <3 OH the warbling is so interesting looking slightly more haunting as it progresses! LITTLE DRUMMER BOY GOING OFF WITH A FUN LIL HIGHER PLUCKED GUITAR RIFF? this is so….

golden brown

THIS IS MY BABY ONE OF MY FAVOURITE SONGS !!!!!! HARPSICHORD WHAT THE FUCK!!!! also with a bassy keyboard behind it! god his vocals in this are so buttery so yummy with just a hint of nasality? also god this fuckin time signature is all fucked the harpsichord is playing in a completely different time. bass and drums come into the fold so carefully subtly it’s beautiful. everything is just a little heavier but it’s still so light and mysterious and plain cool??? guitarrrrrrrrrrrr oh the reverby echo???? this solo always gets me !!!! ohhhhhh vocalisation that’s so echoey and sooooooo otherworldly is insane. the deepness and the layering of it is Fucked. this is truly such a soundscape AGAIN! chu bee fair idk how they’re so in sync when the times are so different.

how to find love and happiness in the present day

ohhhhhh this is different. screechy little synthy things going on to more spoken vocals with an insane lil bass trying going on? so sectioned with the vocals and instruments it’s really cool!!! the layering of the guitar pitches are so nice. AH TWANGY GUITAR mixed with some bongo vibes!!!! nah this is so fun!!! ohhhh these lil drum things sound like trickling raindrops. not sure what exactly they are but it adds such a cool effect. god that high frequency synth solo what the fuck !!!!! so insane so sick!!! ohhhh it fluctuates so nicely and smoothly between notes. descending vocal line with fuzz and partially covered by the instrumentals TO A FADEOUT

la folie

Oh This Is Grand. this intro is so beautiful???? what sounds like strings (made with keyboard) with a high smooth guitar part with echoey reverb and bass. OH ITS A SPOKEN PART IN FRENCH. beautiful. these words are so lonely and beautiful too and that’s conveyed so well with the effects placed on the voice itself? drums………. god this is so twin peaks right now !!!! DEEP SUNG VOCALS WHISPERING. back to spoken word with the bass getting a deeper sweeping moment??? oh beautiful deep staccato notes. there’s such a cool effect put on his voice this is….. really cool. the stringy synths really paint the background of this with colour. OHHHH high synthy parts joining the mix in a fun little flourish!!!! that bass…….. is so genuinely yummy holy goooood. spoken word so cinematic and lovely. the “la folie” being sung so deeply and whispery is so nice and comforting….. i love this. beauty guitar part at the end so soft so nice so echoey. drums holding down the fort so well UGH.

thoughts: okay. okay. i was genuinely surprised at how varied and genuinely INTERESTING this album was? like the tempo variations the key changes the instruments used the shifting parts the vocals and the USE of all of it to set tone? the tone itself was also so insane and has to be mentioned because there was so much interplay with shadow and light in each song?????????? incredible. i know talk-singing isn’t for everyone but i think it’s cinematic and cheeky and fun so i loved it. l o v e d. genuinely surprised at this guys!!!

[burning-sol]

KIAN x BECKY SHIP NAME BRAINSTORMING

@scucondi responded to an ask about ship names and stated there wasn't really one aside from kianbecky. This WILL NOT do, we need to give them the most elaborate name PRONTO!!

kianbecky/beckykian <- honestly a bit bland to me and i think we could do better stonejones/jonestone <- another mashup name but i think it's a lil' cuter rockstars <- used by @scucondi rockstars reunion <- idea from scucondi the jasmine album <- the jasmine is the name of becky's motorcycle!! idea from scucondi willotstreet instrumental <- ... willotstreet album <- ... willotstreet jam sesh <- ... jam sesh <- ... love concert <- ... bikers band <- ... rollingstones <- the rolling of a wheel and kian's last name, has the imagery of gravel being kicked up by a bike, rock and roll, also a reference to the band the rolling stones i imagine. idea from @jugg4lojuic3

LOVER'S PEAK <- notable location that could maybe incorporated into a ship name

TRUNK <- the trunk of a car, the trunk of a tree

HEARTWOOD <- i think this is too nonspecific to be a ship name but the heartwood is the inner part of a tree trunk and that's so cute

STREAM <- streaming audio, the water by lover's peak

K + B / KIAN + BECKY / ETC <- not a name in itself but i thought about those carvings couples make into trees, rocks or metal and am throwing this out there in case someone is inspired by this

HEART <- a pulse, a heart beat, this idea is a classic

BRIDGE <- the bridge is a section of a song that’s intended to provide contrast to the rest of the composition and, i dunno, for some reason it popped into my head as something relevant to their relationship (on this same train of thought maybe other terms to do with song structure could be pulled for inspiration e.g chorus) the bridge is also a part of a guitar the strings run over

miscellaneous words - urban, suburban, city - engine, motor, vehicle - pitch, rhythm, strumming, strings, tuning pegs, headstock, pick guard, fretboard, strobe dots, belt drive, direct drive, stylus, plinth, speed selector, turntable - radio station, broadcast, satellite, dipole, directors, cradle, reflector - scratching records, burning tapes, friction, deteriorate, tearing, distortions - soulmate, temptation, impulse, leaving, runaway, stuck

The following section is dedicated to ship names and ideas that have spoilers for Blood in the Bayou:

bugjam <- idea from @scucondi the bug album <- idea from scucondi battle of the bugs <- like battle of the bands but bug!! idea from scucondi siren song <- "siren song for kianbecky? she pulled him into the hive like sirens pull sailers into the sea and music and yea. is this anything?" from anon revertebrates <- i'm personally attached to this ship name because it's fun to say!! the revving of a motorcycle combined with invertebrate willotveins <- inspired by the kiss me (kill me) lyrics "why do the trees have veins" with willot (as in willot st) instead of willow (willow tree) the song was brought up by @jugg4lojuic3

SHELLAC <- early phonograph records (like vinyl records) were made with differing materials, one such being shellac - this stood out to me for obvious reasons. also a headshell is a head-piece designed to attach to the end of your turntable's tonearm.

(speaking of tonearms, a tonearm is the movable part of a record player that carries the pickup and permits the needle to follow the record groove. this is my contribution to a potential kian x rolan ship name because music and also rolan's bug arm, you know?)

TRACT <- a mix of digestive tracts, car tracks and music tracks, i really like this word play

CARTRIDGE/CARTILAGE <- more word play :3

INSECT MIGRATION <- kian brings up the word "runaway" in his song to becky and it made me think of insects migrating so maybe something could be done with that

ANTENNA <- to do with radios and broadcasts but also bug anatomy

VIBRATIONS <- to do with music but also bug communication

RECORDING BUG <- you know how you have those "bugs" that can record conversations? like someone gets "bugged"? yeah that

miscellaneous words - bodies, bugs, insects, thorax, abdomen, elytra, exoskeleton, shedding, cocoon, metamorphosis, leaf

[secretmessages1983]

Hey, hope you’re having a swell day! For the Vinyl Asks: 9, 11, 12, 30. And not listed, but curious - what kind of record player do you use?

9. Have you ever inherited any records from your family?

no i havent my mom has a ton in her attic and she's always like oh i should give you those and then she always forgets lol

11. Is there an “odd man out” record in your collection (it doesn’t fit in with the styles/genres of the rest of your collection)? If so, what is it?

i love international music a lot especially from africa there's a lot of amazing music out there that nobody from western countries has really heard of so it's def this one but it's because you cant really find these types of records in a lot of places (side note really great album go give it a listen it's nigerian funk)

12. Record you listen to the most?

definitely speaking tongues by talking heads love it so much or discovery by electric light orchestra

30. Record(s) that you want to buy next?

oh man so many i really wanna get more paul mccartney i want ram on vinyl so bad i also want more elo because i love elo theyre so good

also bonus

i just have a victrola i'd like to get a nicer set up eventually but it gets the job done for now :-) and if youre looking for a record player it's not the expensive compared to some others

[charlesmwa]

Top Features to Look for in a Professional DJ Turntable

If you’re a DJ, your turntable is the heart of your setup. Whether you're spinning at a club or practicing at home, choosing the right turntable can make all the difference in your performance. As the expert sales and marketing head of a leading turntable manufacturer, I’m here to guide you through the top features every professional DJ turntable should have. Not only will you gain insight into what to look for, but you’ll also see why upgrading to a professional-grade turntable is a smart investment for your career.

1. Direct-Drive Motor for Stability and Control

One of the most critical features of a professional DJ turntable is the motor. You’ll want to go for a direct-drive motor, which offers more torque and control. This motor allows for instant start/stop, giving you precise control over your music, which is key when mixing or scratching. Unlike belt-drive systems that can slip or lag, direct-drive ensures that your records spin at a consistent speed, no matter how intense your performance gets.

Why it matters: A stable and responsive turntable ensures smooth mixes and clean transitions, giving you more control during your sets.

2. High Torque for Faster Start-up

Torque refers to the turntable's ability to reach its desired speed quickly. High-torque turntables spin faster and stop immediately, which is ideal for DJs who perform quick cuts and scratches. The higher the torque, the quicker the platter gets up to speed, allowing you to start your set right on the beat. It’s especially crucial during live performances when timing is everything.

Why it matters: High torque gives you the responsiveness needed for seamless transitions, creating a professional sound and keeping the crowd engaged.

3. Pitch Control for Beatmatching

Beatmatching is an essential skill for DJs, and a turntable with pitch control makes it easier to align the tempo of two tracks. Look for a turntable with adjustable pitch sliders, which allow you to fine-tune the speed of your record by increasing or decreasing the pitch. Whether you’re blending genres or mixing different tempos, having reliable pitch control is a game-changer for smooth transitions between tracks.

Why it matters: Accurate pitch control helps you match tempos perfectly, allowing for seamless blends and creating a cohesive set.

4. Quartz Lock for Consistent Speed

When you’re performing live, the last thing you want is for your turntable to wobble or drift off speed. A quartz lock feature ensures your turntable maintains a consistent and precise speed without any fluctuations. This feature is especially important when beatmatching or scratching, as any speed variations can disrupt your performance.

Why it matters: Consistent speed ensures your mixes stay tight and professional, without any unwanted fluctuations.

5. Adjustable Tonearm for Better Tracking

A professional DJ turntable should have an adjustable tonearm. This allows you to fine-tune the tonearm’s height and angle, improving the tracking and sound quality of your records. A properly set-up tonearm ensures your needle stays in the groove, even during heavy scratching. It also helps minimize wear on your records and stylus, prolonging the lifespan of both.

Why it matters: Proper tracking ensures the best sound quality and prevents skipping during your performance, giving you confidence behind the decks.

6. Durable Build for Long-Lasting Performance

As a DJ, your equipment needs to withstand the demands of frequent use, travel, and performance. A high-quality turntable should be built with durability in mind—think solid construction, sturdy feet for stability, and materials designed to handle wear and tear. Look for features like shock-absorbing feet to reduce vibrations and keep your turntable steady, even in high-energy environments.

Why it matters: A durable turntable is a long-term investment. It keeps up with your busy schedule and ensures reliable performance at every gig.

7. USB Connectivity for Digital Recording

In today’s digital age, many professional turntables offer USB connectivity, allowing you to easily convert your vinyl into digital files. This is an excellent feature for DJs who want to blend the classic sound of vinyl with modern technology. You can record your live sets, create digital versions of your vinyl tracks, and even use digital software to enhance your performance.

Why it matters: USB connectivity bridges the gap between analog and digital, giving you more flexibility as a DJ.

8. Anti-Skate Control for Balanced Sound

To maintain perfect sound quality, anti-skate control is crucial. It ensures the needle remains centered in the groove, preventing distortion and preserving your records’ sound. Without proper anti-skate, the needle can veer off-track, which can lead to uneven wear on your records and distort the sound of your set.

Why it matters: Anti-skate guarantees clean, balanced audio and protects your records, allowing for flawless sound reproduction.

9. Slipmat for Seamless Mixing

A professional DJ turntable isn't complete without a good slipmat. The slipmat reduces friction between the record and the platter, allowing you to stop, spin, or scratch your record without damaging it. This feature makes it easier to cue up tracks, create loops, and manipulate sound during a performance.

Why it matters: A slipmat is essential for DJs who want precise control over their vinyl during live sets, enhancing their ability to mix and scratch.

Ready to Take Your DJing to the Next Level?

Investing in a high-quality turntable is essential if you want to elevate your DJ game. Visiting some professional shops like VIP PRO AUDIO in Brooklyn to check these wide features—direct-drive motor, high torque, pitch control, quartz lock, and more—ensure that your turntable not only meets but exceeds the demands of a professional DJ. Whether you're performing live or creating mixes at home, the right turntable will help you deliver seamless, professional performances every time.When you're ready to step up your DJ setup and experience superior sound, don't settle for less. Upgrade to a professional DJ turntable with all these must-have features and take control of your music like never before!

[2-timesaweek]

PAREIKO 9 in 1 Vinyl 3 Speed Record Player with Bluetooth Turntable for Vinyl with Built-in Speakers USB Playback CD Cassette FM AM Raido Aux in RCA Out Vintage https://a.co/d/5lN5DLw

[ "IF YOUR SEARCHING FOR A COMPLETE STEREO SYSTEM WITH A CASETTE PLAYER AND A / C.D. PLAYER:

"THIS COMES WITH A RECORD PLAYER AM& FM RADIO AND BLUE TOOTH"! ]

[djskogra]

•DnB>DJ Psy & Project Sirius (Mondo Universale)-[2001]-@ Cargo Bar

DJ Psy (Since 2012 DJ SkogRå) & Project Sirius (Mondo Universale)-[2001]-@ Cargo Bar, BS_Do.17.05_DAT Rip _* Breaks, TripHop, HipHop, Funk, Psychedelic, Krautrock, Jazz, Dub, Ragga, Breaks, Tabla, Indian Music, World Music, Breakbeatz, Dark DnB, drumnbass, D'n'B*

MP3 320 kbit/s stereo

° Mixed @ Cargo Bar, St. Johanns-Rheinweg 46_BS, Basle_CH_Switzerland with ? Mixer & 2 Technics SL1200-MK2 Turntables [* http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Technics_SL-1200]

Vinyl Mixes. Live recorded @ Party with DAT [SP_ShortPlay-? kHz] ->Normal Speed

Party: * http://www.cargobar.ch/cargobar/events/2001/05.html

* http://www.cargobar.ch/cargobar/events/2001/05/17-project-sirius.html

° ripped Digital from DAT with Sony TCD-D8 Portable Digital Audio Tape Recorder (DAT) [*http://www.radiomuseum.org/r/sony_dat_walkman_tcd_d8.html] via Digital Optical In @ Creative Sound Blaster Z-Series to Audacity @ HP (Compaq) dc7800 Minitower PC Intel® Core™2 Duo CPU E8500 @ 3.16GHz 8.00 GB RAM_Windows 10 Pro 64-Bit Version 1803 @ Sa. 19.05.2018 (Bad Rec. Level from DAT ☹

° Ripped from 13.47 h till 16.55 h complete Rip (DAT) Rip _* Breaks, TripHop, HipHop, Funk, Psychedelic, Krautrock, Jazz, Dub, Ragga, Breaks, Tabla, Indian Music, World Music, Breakbeatz, Dark DnB, drumnbass, D'n'B*

Playlist (glaub) :

° Project Sirius ca. 21-22 h

DJ Psy 22-23.15,

Project Sirius ca. 23.15-ca.23.27,

DJ Psy 23.27-23.43,

Project Sirius 23.43-23.55,

DJ Psy 23.55-0.07 -> DAT Ende ☹ Schade habe ich nicht LongPlay aufgenommen.

° Found @ my Agenda: ‘Party’ from 21 – 01 h

° Tracklist (3 H 07 Min. 24 Sec. complete Rip) :

1. - 41.

Project Sirius: Tracks 1-9 oder 10, 30-32, 36-41 (?)

DJ Psy: Tracks 11-29 , 33-35 & ? - ?.

Rave the Planet Warmup ;-)

• Twitch Highlight: * https://www.twitch.tv/videos/1558087852

• YouTube: * https://youtu.be/NJQb8DPRr0E?si=ERgX9_tREY0E7TX3

• Mixcloud: * https://www.mixcloud.com/skogra/dj-psy-skogra-project-sirius-mondo-universale-2001-cargo-bar-bs_do1705_dat-rip-_-breaks/

• Hearthis: * https://hearthis.at/skogra/dj-psy-skogra-project-sirius-mondo-universale-2001-cargo-bar-bsdo1705dat-rip-mp3-320-kbits-stereo/

• Amazon Music Podcast: * https://music.amazon.com/es-co/podcasts/ae586985-b998-458a-881a-813f4c31c722/episodes/8c7c3168-d33b-4ae3-b7ce-57d61544ded8/dj-skogr%C3%A5-mixes-songs-dj-psy-skogra-project-sirius-mondo-universale---2001--acargo-bar-bs_do-17-05_dat-rip-_mp3-320-kbits-stereo

• Podtail Podcast: * https://podtail.com/podcast/dj-skogra-mixes-songs/dj-psy-skogra-project-sirius-mondo-universale-2001/

• Apple Podcast: * https://podcasts.apple.com/ch/podcast/dj-skogr%C3%A5-mixes-songs/id1621662784?i=1000561019463

[kitchenblogs]

Countertop Microwaves: The Versatile Kitchen Essential

Introduction

Countertop microwaves have long been a staple in kitchens around the world, offering convenience, speed, and versatility. These standalone appliances are easy to install, require minimal setup, and provide a range of functions that make cooking and reheating food simple and efficient. Whether you're a busy professional, a student, or a family on the go, a countertop microwave can make meal preparation faster and more convenient. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the benefits of countertop microwaves, the key features to consider, and how to choose the right model for your needs.

Benefits of Countertop Microwaves

1. Ease of Installation and Portability One of the most significant advantages of countertop microwaves is their ease of installation. Unlike built-in or over-the-range models, countertop microwaves require no special mounting or installation. Simply place the microwave on a flat surface, plug it in, and you're ready to go. This portability makes countertop microwaves ideal for renters, college students, or anyone who may need to move their appliance frequently.

2. Versatile Cooking Options Countertop microwaves offer a wide range of cooking functions, from basic reheating and defrosting to more advanced options like grilling, baking, and steaming. Many models come with pre-programmed settings for popular foods, making it easy to achieve perfect results with the touch of a button. Some microwaves even include convection cooking, which uses a fan to circulate hot air for even cooking and browning, making them versatile enough to handle everything from popcorn to a full meal.

3. Affordability and Variety Countertop microwaves are generally more affordable than built-in or over-the-range models, making them an excellent choice for budget-conscious consumers. They come in a variety of sizes, styles, and finishes, allowing you to find a model that fits your kitchen decor and space requirements. Whether you need a compact microwave for a small kitchen or a larger model with extra features, there's a countertop microwave to suit every need and budget.

Key Features to Consider

1. Size and Capacity When selecting a countertop microwave, consider the size and capacity to ensure it fits comfortably in your kitchen space. Measure the available counter space and compare it with the dimensions of the microwave. Capacities typically range from 0.5 to 2.2 cubic feet, with larger capacities being ideal for families or those who frequently cook large meals. Smaller capacities are perfect for singles, couples, or those with limited kitchen space.

2. Power and Wattage The power of a microwave is measured in watts, with higher wattage models cooking food faster and more evenly. Countertop microwaves generally range from 600 to 1200 watts. If you plan to use the microwave for more intensive cooking tasks, such as baking or grilling, consider a higher wattage model. For basic reheating and defrosting, a lower wattage may suffice.

3. Control Panel and Display Countertop microwaves come with various control panel options, from simple dial controls to advanced digital touchscreens. Choose a control panel that is easy to use and suits your preferences. Digital displays provide precise control over cooking settings and times, while pre-programmed settings simplify the cooking process for common foods like popcorn, pizza, and vegetables.

4. Additional Features Some countertop microwaves come with additional features that enhance their functionality. These can include:

Sensor Cooking: Automatically adjusts cooking time and power level based on the food's moisture content, ensuring optimal results.

Inverter Technology: Provides more consistent cooking power, preventing overcooking or undercooking of foods.

Turntable On/Off Option: Allows you to disable the turntable for cooking larger dishes or when using rectangular cookware.

Child Lock: A safety feature that prevents accidental use, especially useful in households with young children.

Popular Brands and Models

Several reputable brands offer high-quality countertop microwaves, each with unique features and benefits. Here are a few popular options:

1. Panasonic NN-SN966S The Panasonic NN-SN966S is a powerful countertop microwave with 1250 watts of cooking power and a large 2.2 cubic feet capacity. It features inverter technology for even cooking and defrosting, as well as a built-in sensor that adjusts cooking time based on the food's moisture level. The stainless steel finish adds a sleek and modern look to any kitchen.

2. Toshiba EM131A5C-BS The Toshiba EM131A5C-BS offers 1100 watts of cooking power and a 1.2 cubic feet capacity. It includes a sensor cooking function, pre-programmed settings, and a large digital display for easy operation. The black stainless steel finish provides a contemporary and stylish appearance.

3. AmazonBasics Microwave The AmazonBasics Microwave is an affordable and compact option with 700 watts of power and a 0.7 cubic feet capacity. It features voice control compatibility with Alexa, allowing for hands-free operation. This microwave is perfect for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or office spaces.

Installation and Maintenance Tips

1. Proper Placement To ensure optimal performance, place your countertop microwave on a flat, stable surface. Leave adequate ventilation space around the appliance, as microwaves can generate heat during operation. Avoid placing the microwave near heat sources, such as stoves or ovens, and ensure that the power cord is not obstructed.

2. Regular Cleaning To keep your countertop microwave in top condition, clean it regularly. Wipe down the interior and exterior surfaces with a soft cloth and mild detergent. For stubborn stains, use a microwave-safe cleaner. Remove and clean the turntable and any other removable parts to prevent the buildup of food particles and grease.

3. Safety Precautions Always follow the manufacturer's safety guidelines when using your microwave. Avoid using metal containers or utensils, as they can cause sparks and damage the appliance. Use microwave-safe cookware and covers to prevent spills and splatters. Keep an eye on food while it's cooking to prevent overheating and potential fires.

Conclusion

Countertop microwaves are a versatile and convenient addition to any kitchen, offering a wide range of cooking options and features. Whether you're reheating leftovers, cooking a quick meal, or defrosting frozen foods, a countertop microwave can simplify your kitchen experience. With various sizes, styles, and features available, there's a countertop microwave to suit every need and budget.

Buy from Airport Home Appliance: Discover the Perfect Countertop Microwave for Your Home

At Airport Home Appliance, we offer a wide selection of countertop microwaves from top brands like Panasonic, Toshiba, AmazonBasics, and more. Our knowledgeable staff can help you find the perfect model that fits your kitchen space and meets your cooking needs. Visit our showroom or browse our online catalog to discover the best countertop microwave for your home. Enjoy top-quality appliances, competitive prices, and exceptional customer service at Airport Home Appliance

[aaryan-mwa-blogs]

DJ Essentials: Must-Have Gear for Spinning the Perfect Set

Being a DJ is not just about playing music; it's about creating an unforgettable experience for your audience. Whether you're just starting out or looking to upgrade your setup, having the right gear is essential. Here's a guide to the must-have equipment for spinning the perfect set.

1. DJ Controller

A DJ controller is your main tool. It connects to your laptop and allows you to control your DJ software, mixing tracks seamlessly. Look for a controller with a responsive jog wheel, sturdy faders, and plenty of performance pads. Popular brand choices includes the Pioneer and the Numark.

2. Laptop with DJ Software

A powerful laptop is crucial for running DJ software like Serato DJ, Traktor, or Virtual DJ. Ensure your laptop has enough RAM and storage to handle your music library and the software's demands. Keeping your software up-to-date ensures you have the latest features and bug fixes.

3. Headphones

Quality headphones are vital for cueing up your next track and monitoring your mix. Look for headphones that are comfortable, have good sound isolation, and provide clear audio. Brands like Sennheiser, Pioneer, and Audio-Technica offer excellent options.

4. Speakers

Good speakers allow you to practice your sets and perform at small venues. For home use, studio monitors like the KRK Rokit series are great for clear, accurate sound. For gigs, portable PA systems like the JBL deliver powerful sound in a compact package.

5. Mixer

A mixer lets you blend tracks smoothly and add effects. If you’re using turntables or CDJs, a standalone mixer is essential. Look for one with multiple channels, built-in effects, and robust build quality. The Pioneer brand is a favorite among professional DJs.

6. Turntables or CDJs

If you prefer a traditional setup, turntables or CDJs are a must. Turntables like the Technics SL-1210 are legendary for their durability and precision. CDJs, brand Pioneer offers digital convenience and advanced features for modern DJs.  

7. DJ Stand

A sturdy DJ stand keeps your gear organized and at the right height, preventing strain during long sets. Adjustable stands are ideal, allowing you to customize the setup to your needs. Portable options are great for mobile DJs.

8. Cables and Accessories

Don’t forget the essentials like high-quality audio cables, USB cables, and power strips. Keeping spare cables in your bag can save you from technical issues mid-set. Cable organizers help keep everything tidy and easy to manage.

9. External Hard Drive

An external hard drive is useful for backing up your music library and transferring large files. Look for one with fast transfer speeds and ample storage capacity. Brands like Western Digital and Seagate offer reliable options.

10. Lighting

Adding lighting to your setup can enhance the atmosphere of your gigs. LED lights, strobes, and lasers can transform a space and energize the crowd. Control them with a DMX controller for synchronized light shows.

11. Microphone

A microphone is essential for making announcements, hyping up the crowd, and interacting with your audience. Choose a durable, high-quality mic with a clear sound. Wireless options offer flexibility and freedom of movement.

Investing in the right DJ gear sets the foundation for a successful and enjoyable DJing experience. Each piece of equipment plays a crucial role in your ability to create seamless, exciting sets that keep the crowd moving. Whether you're performing at home, in a club, or at events, having reliable and high-quality gear will ensure you're always ready to deliver your best performance.

Remember, selecting the best place to find all these DJ essentials is important. Nowadays, many prominent shops like VIP PRO AUDIO in Brooklyn offer the latest equipment with excellent customer service, valuable expert advice, and hands-on experience with the newest gear. So gear up, get out there, and start spinning the perfect set!