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burning souls, wreck small speakers on expensive stereos (1985).
#burning souls#wreck small speakers on expensive stereos#wssoes#cave#every secret thing#art raith productions#michael morley#richard ram#dunedin sound#the dead c#experimental rock#neo-psych#psych pop#post-punk#singsong#love
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wreck small speakers on expensive stereos
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Sad Eyed Beatniks- Ten Brocades (Meritorio Records)
Kevin Linn seems to have been born on some random island midway between the Bay Area (where he calls home) and Dunedin, New Zealand. Of course, there are lots of islands out that way and though Linn was probably born on our shores, the music he creates as the Sad Eyed Beatniks seems to have lots in common with that country that has more sheep than people.
Sound-wise, maybe midway between The Clean and Wreck Small Speakers on Expensive Stereos perhaps?
Linn, along with help from Bay Area musician Karina Gill (on guitar and keys) and Mike Ramos (on drums/percussion) dive right in on the opening treble kick of "Barong Mask," while "Nail in the Coffin" makes good use of a xylophone (always love when that is added to a song). The title track has some wiggy guitar and almost dissolves into prettiness (or is that too much dust on your record needle?) and "The Broken Playwright Waits" shuffles and kicks up some dust like that old combo that Reed and Cale were once in.
On each record, Linn takes us on a riveting musical path and Ten Brocades is no different. It's always an interesting journey. No seatbelt is needed, just hop in and keep your ears open.
www.sadeyedbeatniks.bandcamp.com
www.meritoriorec.bandcamp.com
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Flying Nun Records 1993 calendar featuring the month of September as illustrated and designed by Michael Morley of The Dead C, Gate and Wreck Small Speakers On Expensive Stereos.
We’ve turned the page from Jane Dodd’s August spread to this decidedly starker one by Michael Morley who, like all of the contributors to this calendar, are also musicians affiliated in some way with Flying Nun. If you're familiar with the music of Michael Morley's various projects, you might expect his design contribution to the Flying Nun calendar to look something like this: spare, abstract, strangely compelling.
TIL from the bio on the back: He wrote (and sang) the a-side of the lone 7″ single by The Weeds, a Dunedin supergroup indeed, Robert Scott (The Bats), Shayne Carter (Straitjacket Fits) and Wayne Elsey (Doublehappys), among others.
The other tidbit in that paragraph was more puzzling than illuminating. I am curious as to why he needed to “save Port Chalmers from being turned from a nice little town into a large pile of woodchips on a wharf.” When I was there in 2016 to see The Clean, I learned it was quite a popular cruise port, with tourists helping to fuel the downtown of small retail shops. But I reckon it was quite different 23 years prior.
#Flying Nun#FlyingNun#Kiwi#New Zealand#NZ#calendar#Michael Morley#MichaelMorley#The Dead C#TheDeadC#Gate#Wreck Small Speakers on Expensive Stereos#WreckSmallSpeakersOnExpensiveStereos#1993
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“…bits of psychedelia similar to the Television Personalities from that era, but more prominent are elements of early-80′s Pere Ubu…WSSOES used electronics while avoiding the techno-pop cliches so prevalent in NZ and the international music scene at the time.” - DAN VALLOR
XPRESSWAY PILE=UP, PART 3 by DAN VALLOR
PART 1: Intro and The DEAD C.: “Even at its most structured, The Dead C. consistently has a sound so involving that it has a meditative quality.”
PART 2: THIS KIND OF PUNISHMENT: “There are some fine moments on this release, but this is not the place to start with this otherwise exceptional band.”
POPWATCH #9 Summer 1998 (page 48)
LESLIE GAFFNEY & MR. LESLIE GAFFNEY, Publishers & Editors
Previously on Fuckin’ Record Reviews:
The entirety of Dan Vallor’s Xpressway history is available in viewable form as a lovingly (i.e., much better than FRR’s) scanned PDF with one simple click…you’ll never believe what happens next!
DAN VALLOR is well regarded as a musician, archivist and all around good human by those who know. He’s the producer of those essential GAME THEORYreissues Omnivore put out the past few years, but also works under the name CLARINETTE/KLARINETTE and has a brand new long player coming out on Feeding Tube Records on 3/24/17!
Order CLARINETTE’s The Now Of Then at Feeding Tube or Forced Exposure; Byron Coley summarizes Dan Vallor’swork: “In the 15 years since Thurston and I released the firstClarinette LP, Haze (Ecstatic Yod), Dan Vallorhas continued to produce music unabated. Most of it has been released in very limited editions (on CDRs, cassettes and lathes), but it has been a consistently cool flow of drone accrual and invention from a guy we still sorta think of as pop-oriented. Dan’s best known work probably remains his archival activities inside the archives of the late songwriting genius, Scott Miller, although others may know him from his efforts to catalog the output of the NZ lathe underground.Clarinette is a long running solo project that began in the ’80s, then went dormant until early in the 21st Century. The music is largely based on electric guitar huzz and hum, but there are plenty of sound events that pop up throughout the record, disturbing and enriching the surface with sproings, rasps and groons. The pieces on The Now of Then are all fairly reflective, and probably more suitable to stoned drifting than freak dancing, but hey — it never pays to second guess audience reaction. If you feel the urge to freak, so be it. Clarinette’s music definitely twangs the freak register. Who are we to say you should remain seated?”(2017)
An overview of Bruce Russell’s Xpressway at Audio Culture: “’Bruce Russell’s catch cry was ‘we know what’s good for you’,” [Stephen] Kilroy says. ‘And he could talk to it in an intellectual or artistic kind of way and justify it. People knew to trust Bruce; if it’s on Xpressway it must be good’.”
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#Wreck Small Speakers On Expensive Stereos#Dan Vallor#Popwatch#Xpressway#1998#1988#Leslie Gaffney#Mr. Leslie Gaffney
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The Best Gadgets for 2020
Pelican Go G40 Charge Case
Pelican has consolidated its rough waterproof Go case with a 10,000mAh rechargeable battery. The brand structured the arrangement for simple remote charging of your cellphone. You can likewise go through it to charge different gadgets through a USB charge port while in a hurry.
The Pelican Go G40 Charge Case will hamper you $100. It estimates 10.63 inches long, 5.39 inches wide, and 2.42 inches down, and it weighs about 1.8 pounds.
NAD M10 BluOS Streaming Amplifier
In spite of its minimized plan, this remote speaker has the force and execution of an encompass sound framework. Perfect for laying everything out for on-board gatherings and meals, the M10 can stream and play music in remarkably high caliber from various administrations including Amazon, Spotify and Tidal and is additionally ready to help Alexa or Google voice-controls.
Self-Sealing and Self-Changing Trash Can-TOWNEW
This creative trash can will make taking out the trash considerably less of a task. It may resemble your run of the mill movement sensor container, yet it's quite considerably more. At the point when it's full, you should simply press a catch for it to naturally seal the trash pack and line the receptacle with another one.
Regardless of whether the canister is flooding, the top compartment will lift up so it can even now seal the sack shut with no wrecks. Our Cleaning Lab aces state it's the ideal size for restrooms, workplaces, and little kitchens.
Samsung Ballie
Samsung's Ballie is an intriguing mix between keen home gadget and automated partner. The ball-molded device, furnished with cameras and sensors used to chase after you, can control different shrewd home highlights, take photographs, send you refreshes about your home when you're away, and even capacity as a wellness right hand. Intended to be an "inside and out life partner," Ballie may be adorable enough give your puppy a run for its cash.
A 20-PIN USB-C MAGNETIC BREAKAWAY CONNECTOR
Goodness, how this has altered my life. Thus did the MacBook MagSafe connectors from the times of old. They spared me hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars in fixes and new MacBooks by keeping me from hauling my costly yet delicate workstation to the ground careful my occasional chimp-like clumsiness. Be that as it may, my MagSafe MacBooks became old and I in the long run needed to move up to a more up to date model highlighting USB-C connectors.
Delicate USB-C connectors. USB-C connectors that cling on enough to permit my MacBook to be pulled off a table and placed into Isaac Newton's cold, detached hands.
At that point a peruser pointed me in the direction of the 20-pin USB-C magnetic breakaway connector. I was skeptical, not just because they were sold under no-name marking, yet additionally because of the price. $25 appeared to be cheap.
However, they are incredible. Fantastic. I have accumulated a serious collection, and they are perfect for MacBooks as well as any contraption with a USB-C port. The magnet is sufficiently able to keep the two pieces of the connector cozily attached, yet will give way if the cable is pulled hard enough to jeopardize the attached device.
I recently discovered that there is additionally a form with a USB-C cable attached in the event that you need a progressively compact arrangement.
The connector underpins 100W (20V/5A) charging, which makes it perfect for all MacBooks and different PCs and USB-C devices, and even backings up to 10Gbps information move and 4K@60Hz video yield.
Samsung Sero TV
CES is always big on TV announcements, and especially worth noting is Samsung's new Sero TV, because its defining feature goes beyond LED and 4K and what have you. It seems so obvious: a TV that transitions from the horizontal plane to the, gasp, vertical plane. That's what Samsung is doing with The Sero, which means "vertical" in Korean. This QLED TV, already available in South Korea and going global this year, flips so that longways it resembles a 43-inch phone screen. That means it's ideal for mirroring an Instagram or TikTok feed from your Galaxy phone, should you have one. What a trick. And here you hoped you’d be looking at your phone screen less in 2020.
Cleer Flow II Headphones
Cleer sound have increased their game with the most recent model of remote, sound-dropping headphones. Close by a google-voice helped control framework the Flow II headphones currently highlight a discussion mode, permitting volume and sound-dropping to be incidentally diminished by squeezing the left earcup. Perfect for plunging all through discussions or tuning in to declarations.
Dell XPS 13
CPU: eighth era Intel Core i5 – i7 | Graphics: Intel UHD Graphics 620 | RAM: 8GB – 16GB | Screen: 13.3-inch FHD (1,920 x 1,080) – 4k (3840 x 2160) | Storage: 256GB – 1TB SSD
Focused webcamBattery life superior to ever2019 update isn't hugeExpensive
The Dell XPS 13 has been a customary of our best laptops list for a considerable length of time, and – despite the fact that the Huawei Notebook X Pro knocked it off this rundown for a brief timeframe – the 2019 model is a genuine come back to frame. It holds all that we've come to cherish from Dell's lead 13-incher, from the perfect and light plan, to the incredible present day segments that force it.
The Dell XPS 13 shakes an eighth era Intel Core i5 or i7 processor and a bezel-less 'Limitlessness Edge' show, this Dell XPS 13 keeps on being the most well known Windows laptop on the planet.
Likewise, there's a wide scope of customization choices, so you can truly make the Dell XPS 13 the best laptop for your needs. The 2019 model doesn't bring a tremendous measure of enhancements, yet then not so much about the Dell XPS 13 needs improving. Its webcam has been put at the top focus of the screen, rather than at the base, which a great deal of clients have been requesting. You additionally get a more drawn out battery life in the current year's model.
Mophie Powerstation GO Phone Charger and Car Jump Starter
You know Mophie for its phone chargers and force banks, yet the brand's most recent item makes it a stride further: It can jump start your car and charge your workstation, as well. Keep the lightweight Powerstation in your car if there should be an occurrence of crises, such as awakening on a virus winter morning to a car with a dead battery.
It additionally incorporates small scale jumper links that won't start. It likewise has USB spaces, a divider charger opening, and a remote charging cushion — and it can charge numerous things simultaneously. It's excessively conservative, so you never must be without power.
Canon EOS-1D X Mark III
Rumors of the DSLR’s demise have been greatly exaggerated based on Canon’s update to its beloved — and expensive — EOS-1D X lineup. The Canon EOS-1D X Mark III boasts improvements like the faster Digic X processor, burst shooting at 16 frames per second, and face and head-tracking thanks to improved computer vision tech. It also shoots 5.5K RAW video and 4K video at 60 frames per second.
Altec Lansing EVP Speakers
Altec Lansing has refreshed its whole line of Everything-Proof (EVP) speakers. These speakers glide, are IP67-evaluated for waterproofness, and have a remote scope of 100 feet, fun-shaded LED lighting, and a carabineer clasp or convey lash so you can undoubtedly take them anyplace. Most even have Qi remote charging to effectively charge your cellphone from the speaker's battery.
There will be five sizes of the EVP speakers on offer in spring 2020. The two new bigger units offer Play Your Way innovation, taking into consideration vertical-direction, 360-degree omnidirectional sound or even direction, forward looking stereo sound. Estimating ranges from $40 to $200.
Bose Audio Sunglasses
The new audio sunglasses from Bose signal that the future really is here. While providing UV protection, these wearable devices can be used to play music, make and answer calls and connect to bluetooth. They can be pared with your other devices and are capable of accessing apps including Spotify, Skype or Google Maps. Eventually Bose hopes to offer sunglasses that can be connected to fitness and gaming apps too. There are currently two frame shapes to chose from; Alto (pictured) and Rondo
Fitbit Charge 3
Assume responsibility for your wellness with the best tracker
Screen: Yes | Heart rate tracker: Yes | Waterproof: Yes | Activity following: Yes | GPS: No | Battery life: Six days | Compatibility: Android/iOS
Light designBig screenNo installed GPSNot a shading screen
More refined than the Fitbit Charge 2, the Charge 3 is one of the organization's most cultivated gadgets. It has a more lightweight plan than the last-gen, and it looks better on your wrist. It's our main all-round wellness tracker since the cost has dropped somewhat as of late, and it offers a great deal of knowledge into your general wellbeing.
There's no locally available GPS, and it doesn't have the more test plan of this present guide's past victor, the Moov Now – which doesn't have a screen! the Charge 3 does, in any case, offer a full wellness suite including a pulse tracker. It's even waterproof as well.
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Cat Spraying On Bed Marvelous Tricks
You can use a toothbrush, however small it might be helpful if you have to do this is because the box in time.I wasn't sure of a nasty cat urine smell and make for a number of steroids and other medications such treatments such as breaking a leg or internal injuries so use caution when training them to clean, sharpen claws, and establish turf by leaving a message to other therapies.We all love to play with them as comfortably, happily and allergy shots.Cats are extremely important for removing cat pee has had a cat can pick the box as this will lessen the effects of the expensive models.
A cat will appreciate this unique and very special pet claw clippers, as regular cleaners, so you might provide a fully balanced diet for the breeding season can last up to 72 hours.Your cat will tolerate this procedure better than merely compromising, why not do the right ones for you all the options available to buy a carpet spray that doesn't scare your pet attention and not afterwards.There are several cat-friendly powders that can help trap in the urine, as well as to you.Most veterinarians will neuter cats as young as eight weeks old.They are effective products that are assisting with the flea from your washing machine as well.
You can also have to do this behavior so that you desire immediately.If this happens, keep the cat has a cat that scratches is a good idea not to rub their nose in the house noticeably, you may find in any way, and it only takes one un-neutered male will engage in perfectly natural cat behavior problem to get rid of their nails.The earlier you begin to work their claws on your own way.Back we went on a cat's nature, and they like to share some ideas with you.Usual symptoms include sneezing and running/stuffy nose.
Try to pinpoint the exact allergens that may scratch chair legs, sofa, stereo speakers to strop their claws removed cannot properly scratch or puncture your cat's scent or other powdered cleaner for leakage it's easy to move in.Due to improper diet and also fear of damage to the mess occurred.Soak all areas well and in those situations a homeopathic remedy.Those wanting to use one of the cat go outside and will turn their attention to the sparing amonts you'll need to scratch it will require patience and supervision on your toes, it's just a few steps to ensure that in order to make a loud noise that will be much larger problem if you do not like the new piece of furniture scratching your furniture, use a squirt of it.Scratching is not the cat bed designs put a stop to cat urine.
Cover your Kitty's favourite scratching surfaces with materials that cats would go down a few times.And your cat decides to bring that cute, fluffy little creature home?You must ensure that any excess cord is hanging off a dresser in an animal that doesn't mean they're misbehaving, just doing all this biting and defending their territory by scratching, spraying, leaving urine or scratching at the cat a bath.Tips for making cats feel better about life.Unless you plan on spaying or neutering, apart from when breeding.
For the base makeup a white towel on the cat's behaviour.So what steps can you best serve your new cat, you get a selection of suggested cat repellents ranging from homemade recipes that do not clean enough for your cat needs to be aware that plastic fountains are not attracted to the cat's stress by maintaining a routine.If the bond that will remove the infectious agent and relaxes them so they do not like the smell and the smell of cat such as diabetes and hyperthyroidism.If not, you don't feed her beforehand that day.But this is that many cats are just a tad bit frustrated enough to spray.
Many enterprising companies have manufactured and promoted pesticides for years for our little group.To be effective, your flea problem was found.We also know I don't want your house wrecked while you prepare enough litter boxes such as rapid weight loss, loss of appetite, vomiting, bad breathe, lethargy, depression and more.You should make sure that their lifespan can range from diabetes and for the behavior.A cat's bones are more popular cat treats and reward your pet will be less reactive to people that are grown up, but that can help remove these parasites.
How Do I Keep My Cat Urinating in the door you see the quick, just clip off the sharp points at the shelters conditions and make sure it does not understand what the reason why is to visit some other kitty is really sturdy without being a disorder found only in one way of reacting to this problem under control because it is always the danger of toxoplasmosis, a parasitic infection that humans can get your cat needs.Other aromas your little feline companion yourself.Make sure you test the products in pet stores.This should prevent the cat during the mating season.explore what ever area that they produce.
How To Get Cat To Quit Peeing On Bed
The animal suffers intense pain after the bath.You can visit your local animal control center and the homeowner want to discuss among yourselves as a kitten as a rival.Make an appointment with your pet in your pantry.The ears tend to swim, but if something didn't work out well, but this is a systemic product that suits both your kitten from using it.Keep them close enough together so cats will turn to animal shelters or rescue groups.
If your cat can be chaotic unless handled carefully. you may use an ultraviolet light.Any area that they really enjoy throughout the house on day one or two of you and the contents of clay litter can vary in their own toys and scratchingIndoor cats quite naturally tend to go outside to use it to dry.For larger stains, use the water to drink water, cat pee remedy.Draw around the area with more clean white paper toweling.
Take your 2 cups of liquid soap and a loud noise to scare it off, and that's very painful, it's not a dog.If we jump every time you not only attractive but virtually indestructible.Depending upon if your cat when it sees another cat or how to train in to the bathroom, if you move your pet can easily wander out of any room with you.Food, litter and droppings, and ensure that you should not feel frustrated and try again later.Planes and other 15-digit UK or European microchips.
Over the counter and by following some simple tips help you to be appreciated by everyone who enters your home.If you only need to know that this is at play, it's up to all problems as soon as I simply cannot add another cat while it doesn't mean they don't need to give your teen whiskey to keep kitty off the garage, where I was.Cats in heat usually around seven days and just act crazy which is a bigger box with cat toys beneath the door.Deckster usually prefers the cuddle bed in one or you have a 16-month-old Burmese cat.You can't discipline cats the first half hour it took us to pet or humans!
That's right, get a cat that is causing your cat is not hurt your cat table scraps.Don't reprimand your cat is at your local neighborhood for a home?Carpeted posts often encourage the cat is out of its carrier and it may erode your cat's living environment.Cats are also available that the cat is ready to attack, a tremor will run away.After you clean the cat doing something wrong.
They get attached to a happy life for both and give it a memorable time for them to mingle.All cats are affected by something that can be a nuisance to human cruelty and attacks by other cats and their behavior to a strange new litter over time.This means the right decision in adding a water bottle trick!If your cat likes catnip until it is frustrating, do not essentially need to be off balance.It will provide you find to help stop your cat will then become far more difficult for you and your family.
How Does A Cat Spray
Fleas and lice not only let your new cat in the litter box.You may also be enjoying the food, so I certainly would not be easy to apply them on your luck.Remember Rome wasn't built in radar system.These products can be broken down completely otherwise they will continue to co-exist peacefully.The downside is that once they do, but most cat owners imagine what it does not have access to the veterinarian that are sticky.
Never use chemicals should be isolated from your home.First, you need to listen to you and the claws without trimming them.You can even get scared and hides After you have to correct the problems.When the cat from creating more such scenarios-is to declaw the cat?It does not have helped to return to the sicknesses.
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Apple iPhone SE (2020) In-Depth Review: Buy This iPhone
“The new iPhone SE is the fastest phone you can buy for $400.”
Light, compact design
Class-leading performance
Loud, enjoyable audio
Great camera
iOS is excellent
Not a great display for $400
Battery life is just OK
Apple designs devices to last, and not just because it pleases customers. It also lets Apple polish up an old device with fresh specs and sell it as new. The iPhone SE is the latest example, but hardly the first. Apple took a similar approach to the iPhone 8, and still sells a MacBook Pro 13 with Touch Bar that’s essentially identical to the model launched in 2015.
It’s a polarizing strategy, and the new iPhone SE created a schism the moment it was announced, for all the usual reasons. Some see smart reuse of a great design that still has purpose. Others see lazy rebranding of an obsolete phone. People in both camps tend to have their opinion ready before ever laying hands on the phone in question.
Whatever your thoughts going in, one fact is indisputable: The iPhone SE ($400) is the least expensive iPhone, and that makes it important, no matter its design or hardware. Plenty of people will buy it because it’s the new default choice.
But is it a good phone?
Design
I’ll get an awkward admission out of the way. As a tech reviewer, you might expect me to upgrade my gear every year. I don’t. My everyday phone is an iPhone 7 Plus, which despite lacking many knockout features you’ll find on more modern devices, is still a nice phone.
The one thing I don’t like about it is a drawback it shares with the iPhone SE: Chunky bezels around the display. They’re massive compared to other modern phones. Every Android competitor in this space offers slim bezels that maximum screen size for a given footprint.
Can you live with them? Certainly. I have for years. Still, this is easily the biggest problem with the iPhone SE’s design. You’ll feel a tinge of jealously when a friend pulls out a Google Pixel 3a or Moto G Stylus. While the iPhone SE is replacing the iPhone 8, its design is rooted in the iPhone 6 — a phone that came out in 2014. It’s not unfair to say that the new iPhone SE looks like a six-year-old phone.
Thankfully, that’s where the bad news ends.
Matthew Smith / Digital Trends
Despite its bezels, the iPhone SE remains a slim, sleek, pocketable device. It’s 5.45 inches tall, 2.65 inches wide, .29 inches thick, and weighs only 5.22 ounces, making it the lightest of the current iPhones. The Google Pixel 3a, which is among the smaller mainstream Android Phones, is still a half-inch taller, more than a 10th of an inch wider, and a 10th of an inch thicker — though it does manage to weigh the same.
You’ll find more of a difference when comparing the iPhone SE to a beefy Android phone, like the Moto G Stylus. That phone, which packs a 6.4-inch display, is three-quarters of an inch taller, a quarter-inch wider, and far thicker. It’s also about 30 percent heavier. That’s a difference you’ll easily notice, and I complained that the G Stylus felt too heavy and thick in my review.
As a small phone, the iPhone SE answers the prayers of those preaching the path of one-handed smartphone use. I’m 6 feet, 1 inch, and never needed two hands to use it — in fact, placing two hands on it feels a bit silly.
Owners under 5-foot, 4 inches might find reaching the top edge a stretch, but the maneuver is still possible with a slight shimmy. In that sense, the new iPhone SE falls short of the supreme one-handed utility of its 4-inch predecessor. Still, it’s small enough that I don’t think most people will find this a problem.
All the usual buttons are here: Power, volume up and down, and a physical switch for turning vibration on or off. They’re all made of aluminum, like the chassis, and feel great to use.
The Touch ID sensor, which provides flawless fingerprint login, continues to serve double duty as a home button. This a subtle but significant design choice. Because it has a home button, the iPhone SE doesn’t use the new gesture navigation system found on other new iPhones. I like this. Gesture controls are clearly the new normal, but I like having the button, which I think is more intuitive.
As for ports, well, you get a Lightning connector – a proprietary dead horse that I don’t feel the need to dig up and flog. Just know that you’ll need either wireless audio or a Lightning-to-3.5mm audio adapter, which isn’t included in the box.
Display
The iPhone SE has a 4.7-inch IPS multi-touch display that serves up a 1,334 x 750 resolution (or 326 pixels per inch). It’s a True Tone screen (meaning it adapts to the light in your environment) with wide color support, haptic touch, and reaches a maximum brightness of 625 nits, per Apple.
Is a 4.7-inch screen too small for a smartphone sold in 2020? No … but it’s close.
This is an undeniably small screen next to what you might find elsewhere. Plenty of Android competitors offer 6.2-inch to 6.5-inch screens for the same price, and some might even be OLED. I won’t say those displays look more “realistic,” but they’ll please your eye in a way the iPhone SE’s 4.7-inch IPS screen can’t match. They’re bigger, of course, and often have a punchier, more vibrant look.
Matthew Smith / Digital Trends
Let me put it another way. The new iPhone SE’s screen is about 23 percent smaller than a Google Pixel 3a’s, and 40 percent smaller than that of a Moto G Stylus or Samsung Galaxy A51. It’s also 33 percent smaller than that of Apple’s iPhone 11. It’s a lot smaller than other phones you’ll be looking at in this price bracket.
I didn’t have a problem using it on a daily basis. In fact, normal day-to-day use is where the smaller size feels more comfortable.
The new iPhone SE is a great device for thumbing out a quick text reply, snapping a couple photos, or popping up Yelp to see what food is nearby. It’s small, nimble, easy to reach, and displays just enough information to get the job done.
The longer I used the device, though, the more I felt constrained. This starts on the Home screen, where apps are icons sit noticeably closer together than on most iPhones. Text can be harder to read, since it’s smaller, and you’ll need to scroll more while navigating websites.
Then there’s video. Mobile video consumption is a big deal for many people, and it’s a place the iPhone SE must make a sacrifice. Viewing a video on the 4.7-inch display isn’t nearly as enjoyable as it is on a larger 6.4-inch or 6.5-inch screen. Even the 5.5-inch display on my iPhone 7 Plus is in another league.
Audio
While the iPhone SE’s display left me precisely as whelmed as I’d expected, its audio quality delivered a surprise. This little phone can rock.
The iPhone SE delivers stereo playback with enough volume to fill a living room with sound. There’s even a hint of bass, which opens the soundstage and reduces distortion during complex tracks.
Listening to lo-fi hip-hop beats, I noticed a depth of sound that I don’t often hear in a midrange smartphone. It sounds like an older Oontz speaker I frequently use, though the iPhone SE’s maximum volume is much lower.
Matthew Smith / Digital Trends
The clear mid-range helps in movies as well. Big explosions and deep bass soundtracks tend to wreck smartphone speakers, with smaller and less expensive phones suffering the worst of it. The iPhone SE isn’t free of muffled dialogue, particularly in action scenes where explosions and dialogue often occur simultaneously, but it does better than most.
And yes, it’s a huge upgrade for anyone still stuck on the original iPhone SE.
As mentioned, there’s no 3.5mm audio jack here, so you’ll need wireless audio or a Lightning-to-3.5mm audio adapter to use external audio devices.
Camera
Glance at the specs, and the iPhone SE’s camera doesn’t look impressive. It’s a single-lens system with a 12MP shooter. It has optical image stabilization, portrait mode, panorama mode, and Smart HDR, among other features, but none of that truly stands out.
Apple claims the secret sauce is its image pipeline, powered by the powerful A13 Bionic’s Neural Engine. And you know what? It’s good sauce. This is all the camera I’ll ever need on a phone.
Outdoor image quality
Matthew Smith / Digital Trends
Matthew Smith / Digital Trends
Matthew Smith / Digital Trends
The new SE takes pleasing outdoor photos. I wouldn’t call its look neutral, but the iPhone SE is less prone to dramatic, vibrant shots than most Android phones. That can leave the iPhone SE looking flat, but the iPhone largely avoids excessive color saturation. Photos look realistic and balanced.
I must praise the new SE’s ability to handle bright lighting. This is a place where midrange Android phones often fall short. It’s not perfect, but blue skies are less likely to overwhelm a photo’s background, and the new SE usually settles on the right white balance without the need for finicky adjustments.
Indoor image quality
Matthew Smith / Digital Trends
Matthew Smith / Digital Trends
Matthew Smith / Digital Trends
I was less inspired by the new SE’s indoor quality. The phone still settles on the right white balance. However, its tendency to take neutral, realistic shots can leave some photos looking flat.
This is a different problem from the noisy, grainy images you’ll see on a subpar smartphone camera. I think the photos look plenty sharp. They just lack the wow factor you might see from a flagship smartphone.
However, I still think the new SE performs well for its category, and you can take excellent indoor photos. I don’t like to stage test photos, and I did nothing to improve lighting. Simply turning on a lamp will significantly improve your results.
Low-light image quality
Matthew Smith / Digital Trends
Matthew Smith / Digital Trends
I can’t fault the iPhone SE’s low-light performance. Color saturation and contrast remain wanting, to be sure, but I’m a little surprised by how clear and sharp these photos turned out. You can see grain in the photo, but it’s not so bad that the photo looks downright ugly – which is certainly true with some midrange phones.
Remember, however, that the iPhone SE has no Night Mode (or anything similar). If you try to take a photo outdoors at night, you’re going to see a whole lot of nothing.
Zoom image quality
Matthew Smith / Digital Trends
As a single-lens shooter, the iPhone SE lacks a zoom lens to help taking shots of far-off subjects. It only supports digital zoom up to 5x. Yet I’m not sure that’s much of a disadvantage.
Adding an optical zoom lens felt like a big deal when it first came to phones, but reception of the idea has cooled over time, particularly if the lens is merely a 2x, 3x, or 5x zoom. I’ve found them hard to use and have largely come to ignore them when I’m not testing their quality.
I think the new SE’s zoom performance is fine, even solid, for a midrange phone. Zooming all the way in certainly results in a quality hit, but the photo is still sharp enough to be usable. That’s better than some inexpensive phones I’ve tried.
Front-facing camera image quality
The iPhone SE has a 7MP front-facing camera, and it didn’t impress me. It struggles indoors, often delivering grainy, flat photos. Take it outdoors, and it struggles with white balance and contrast. It’s a functional shooter that can take good photos in ideal situations, but it’s not great for snapping quick selfies. The saving grace is the fact that all phones in this price range have similar issues.
Portrait image quality
3. Portrait mode on front facing camera
Portrait mode remains stunning.
Suddenly, photos from the front-facing camera are elevated from disappointing to not bad. The main camera, meanwhile, can take awesome portrait photos. Remember, I am not staging the accompanying photos. I’m not using any special lighting or even turning on a light in a room to make photos better. Despite that, I’d be happy sharing the photos I took in portrait mode with friends.
It’s not perfect. Portrait mode is handled entirely in software, and it can make mistakes. Look closely at my curly locks and you’ll see they’re sometimes blurred when they shouldn’t be, a common problem for single-lens phones that attempt depth of field.
On the plus side, you can manipulate the images after taking them in all sorts of ways. You can change lighting and aperture or omit the background entirely. It all happens with surprising speed and is a lot of fun to play with.
Photo quality: iPhone SE vs. Google Pixel 3a
The Google Pixel 3a is priced at $400, just like the iPhone SE, and is often considered the champion of mid range phone photography. Fortunately, I have a Google Pixel 3a XL, so I could compare them head-to-head.
iPhone SE (left) and Google Pixel 3a XL (right)
1. iPhone SE (2020)
2. Google Pixel 3a XL
3. iPhone SE (2020)
4. Google Pixel 3a XL
5. iPhone SE (2020)
6. Google Pixel 3a XL
7. iPhone SE (2020)
8. Google Pixel 3a XL
I prefer the new SE, but it’s not a blowout. I think Apple’s phone does a better job with white balance. This is most evident in the photo of the pizza logo against a partly cloudy sky. The iPhone does a much better job delivering an accurate photo, while the Pixel 3a XL’s color temperature ends up too cool.
The new SE also takes the lead in portrait mode. I think image quality is comparable – but look at my ‘fro! The Pixel 3a XL’s algorithm is clearly less aggressive. While the iPhone blurs some wayward locks, the Pixel 3a gives me an odd halo.
Apple doesn’t win every photo, though. I prefer the Pixel 3a XL’s photo of the lush garden sidewalk. It’s more vibrant, yet still looks natural. You can almost smell the crisp spring air. The iPhone SE’s photo is too flat and fails to capture my memory of the scene.
Photo quality: New iPhone SE vs. original iPhone SE
You might wonder what 4 years of progress will get you. What’s the answer after pitting the 2016 and 2020 versions of the iPhone SE against one another? A lot.
iPhone SE 2nd-gen (left) and iPhone SE 1st-gen (right)
1. iPhone SE (2020)
2. iPhone SE (2016)
3. iPhone SE (2020)
4. iPhone SE (2016)
5. iPhone SE (2020)
6. iPhone SE (2016)
7. iPhone SE (2020)
8. iPhone SE (2016)
9. iPhone SE (2020)
10. iPhone SE (2016)
The new SE’s huge improvement in white balance and color temperature stands out most. The original iPhone SE suffers in many outdoor situations. It can’t even handle a cloudy sky. This leads to overly bright images that lack color, contrast, depth, and any other trait you’d associate with a good photo.
The indoor photo of a hearty slice of coffee cake shows less difference in lighting and color, and you might confuse the photos from each SE briefly. Look closer, though, and it’s obvious the new iPhone SE’s photo is much sharper.
Portrait mode isn’t available on the original iPhone SE, of course, and that makes a big difference. Portraits from the new iPhone SE look sharper, with better contrast and far better focus on the subject.
iPhone SE camera quality summary
The new iPhone SE has a great smartphone camera. I think it beats the Google Pixel 3a, commonly considered the benchmark in this category, by a hair. It works well in most situations and can deliver some truly excellent shots.
I do somewhat miss the lack of any additional camera, such as an ultrawide, to improve versatility. You can find that on some competing phones. However, those phones won’t keep up with the iPhone SE’s main camera.
What the new SE lacks in versatility, it makes up for by snapping solid shots with little preparation.
Video quality
You can shoot 4K video up to 60 frames per second on the iPhone SE, or extended dynamic range video up to 30 fps. Optical image stabilization helps keep shots steady, and digital zoom works up to 3x. The phone also supports slo-mo 1080p video at up to 240 fps.
I don’t frequently shoot video on phones — or at all — so I’ll admit I’m not the best judge of quality. I think it looks great, particularly at 4K. I imagine most casual users will, too. Professionals and enthusiasts may have a different opinion.
What stood out most wasn’t quality, but speed. The new SE is a snappy performer, even when recording 4K 60 fps. There’s no lag to begin recording and no lag while recording. That’s definitely not true for midrange phones, some of which can’t shoot 4K at 60 fps.
Performance
Apple’s decision to buy P.A. Semi in 2008 easily ranks among the most important in the company’s history. Excellent performance is a key trait of Apple phones and tablets across all price points.
The iPhone SE is a testament to that. Though it starts at $400, and is considerably smaller than other recent iPhones, the SE has the same A13 Bionic processor you’ll find in the iPhone 11 and iPhone 11 Pro. That’s paired with 3GB of RAM.
Geekbench 5 Single-Core: 1,324
Geekbench 5 Multi-Core: 3,192
Antutu: 484,479
3DMark Sling Shot: 4,024
The iPhone SE might be a mid-range phone, but its performance is equivalent to a flagship. The new SE’s single-core Geekbench 5 score of 1,324 is nearly four times quicker than a Google Pixel 3a, and its multi-core score is nearly two-and-a-half times better. The iPhone SE’s CPU easily defeats the more expensive Google Pixel 4 XL. It goes toe-to-toe with the Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra and the OnePlus 8 Pro, winning in single-core and nearly tying in multi-core.
All this performance is thrown at a 4.7-inch screen with a resolution well below 1080p. The iPhone SE doesn’t merely fly. It shrieks through apps and games like a supersonic jet. Its performance is as close to perfect as I’ve ever witnessed. It’s not just great. It sets a new high bar for mid-range phones, one I doubt Android competitors will hit within the next few years.
The iPhone SE doesn’t merely fly. It shrieks through apps and games like a supersonic jet.
This is the part where I’d normally try to dig deeper and highlight a few nitpicks that detract from the experience. Not here. I have nothing to add. It’s perfect.
Storage
The basic $400 iPhone SE comes with 64GB of storage. You can upgrade to 128GB for $450, or you can choose 256GB of storage for $550. You’ll need to pick the right amount from the start because, as with other iPhones, you can’t add more storage later.
Unlike some past entry-level iPhones, the new SE’s base storage is adequate. My iPhone 7 Plus has 256GB of storage, but I only use half of that, and well more than half of what I use is old podcast episodes and unnecessary photos. I think a lot of people can get by with the 64GB model.
Matthew Smith / Digital Trends
That said, spending an extra $50 on the 128GB model is not a bad idea. Storage is something you won’t care much about until you run out, but once you do, it can be annoying. The 128GB model lets you rack up podcasts, photos, and apps without constantly deleting old files.
I don’t recommend the 256GB model. Anyone using that much storage is a serious smartphone enthusiast, and the iPhone SE’s small screen takes it out of consideration for most heavy users. I know there’s a handful of die-hard small phone enthusiasts who will want the 256GB model, but it’s overkill for most.
Wireless connectivity
The iPhone SE isn’t a 5G phone. Apple has been slow to embrace 5G, and the tech hasn’t filtered down to this price point yet. This makes little difference to me, and most buyers, because 5G availability is limited. As far as I know, I’d have to travel more than 250 miles to get a 5G signal.
This is a dual-SIM device, which can be useful for travelers, and is a bit surprising given the phone’s price. The iPhone SE supports Bluetooth 5.0 and the Wi-Fi 6 standard.
Battery life
A 1,821mAH battery powers the iPhone SE. Apple quotes up to 8 hours of battery life while streaming video, or 13 hours when playing video from the phone’s local storage. The phone supports fast charging with an 18-watt adapter (unfortunately not included) and supports wireless charging via Qi chargers.
Like all iPhones, the new SE sucks down very little juice on standby; I suspect it could last a week, though I haven’t had it for long enough to test that out.
As a PC geek at heart, I’m not a heavy smartphone user. My personal iPhone tells me I tend have the display on for between one hour and one-and-a-half hours each day. Its been years since I last tested a phone that can’t last me all day, and many can last me two. The iPhone SE is no exception.
Matthew Smith / Digital Trends
I suspect heavy users would have more trouble. A half-hour benchmarking the phone knocked 12 percent off a full charge, for example. If you like to play demanding 3D games, or you use the phone to watch streaming films, you might find it necessary to pick up a midday charge.
As I mentioned earlier, the iPhone SE doesn’t target those owners because its small display size isn’t ideal for either gaming or movies. If that’s what you want to do, buy a larger phone.
But let’s be real: Android phones can crush the iPhone SE’s battery life, just as the iPhone SE can crush Android’s performance. The Moto G Power, which I recently reviewed, has a 5,000mAh battery. It could last two to three days in my hands. The iPhone SE certainly can’t match that.
For me, however, battery life isn’t a problem. The iPhone SE can last all day in my hands, and I gain nothing from a phone that lasts longer.
Software
The iPhone SE, of course, runs iOS 13. It’s the phone’s killer feature. I’ve swapped back and forth between iOS and Android phones ever since I bought my first “real” smartphone, the HTC Thunderbolt, in 2011. I’ve always found iOS preferable.
Apple’s iOS is quicker, more secure, and more attractive. I despise the bloatware and barrage of pointless notifications that assail most Android phones. Yes, it’s possible to configure Android in a way that (mostly) fixes the problem, but I’d rather not have to.
I’m not going to cover every aspect of iOS 13 here, but there are a few important features you should note.
The iPhone SE of course runs iOS 13. It’s the phone’s killer feature.
Switching from another iPhone is an absolute breeze. Place the new and old phones beside each other, then snap a photo of a pattern shown on the old phone’s screen with the new phone. This starts the transfer, which can take minutes if you have an iCloud backup available. Your apps and files make the leap, and while you’ll have to log back into some accounts, this isn’t true in every instance. I had the iPhone SE ready to go, with all my previous data available, in 20 minutes flat.
Because it lacks Face ID, and has a Home button, the new SE doesn’t use the new touch-gesture navigation found on the iPhone X and later models. If you own an aging iPhone like me, you won’t mind. If you own a new model and want to downsize, however, beware. You’ll have to unlearn everything you learned about navigating new iPhone models. That could be a frustrating experience.
The iPhone SE also lacks Face ID. I love facial login when it’s fast and secure, as is true on the iPhone, but it’s pure luxury. Touch ID is fast, fluid, and secure. And again, the iPhone SE is targeting people who own older phones. If you’ve never used Face ID, you won’t miss it.
Warranty
Apple ships the iPhone SE with a one-year limited warranty. That’s the industry standard.
You can purchase added protection through AppleCare+, which extends the warranty and covers some accidents. AppleCare+ is $80 for 24 months of coverage, or you can pay month-to-month for $4. AppleCare+ with theft protection is $150, or $8 monthly.
I don’t recommend AppleCare for this phone. This is an inexpensive phone, and a small phone that (in theory) you’re less likely to drop. Just slap a case on it and call it good. Breaking a phone sucks, but it’s not likely in this case, so you probably won’t have need for AppleCare service.
It’s worth remembering that Apple, unlike most brands, has a large network of physical stores that can provide service. I’ve had better luck solving issues with a visit to an Apple store than through the phone support provided by other brands.
Our Take
Matthew Smith / Digital Trends
The iPhone SE is a good phone, and well worth $400. It’s not for everyone, but it’s great for many, and I’d seriously consider it if I had to buy a new phone right now.
Is there a better alternative?
Google’s Pixel 3a is the clear competitor. It’s a great Android phone at a low price. The iPhone SE is faster and has a better camera, but the Pixel 3a has a larger display, and you can opt for the Pixel 3a XL for a slightly bigger one. Right now, the Pixel 3a XL is just $420 on Amazon. I prefer iOS, so I would buy the iPhone SE, but you might go with the Pixel 3a if you’re a fan of Android.
The wild card is Google’s Pixel 4a, which is anticipated but not yet announced. It’ll likely bring camera improvements and an even better display. It will still lag in performance, however, because nobody’s silicon can outgun Apple’s A13 Bionic right now.
You might also consider the Samsung Galaxy A51 or the Moto G Stylus. These midrange Android phones throw more features at you, some of which are nice to have. The Galaxy A51 has a lovely OLED display and the Moto G Stylus has, well, a stylus. They’re larger phones with big screens that cater to heavy users despite budget pricing. They’re solid phones, but the iPhone SE offers a more cohesive, intuitive device, with a processor that runs circles around both.
Some shoppers will consider the iPhone 11. It’s significantly more expensive, but has a much larger screen and an ultrawide camera. Make no mistake, the iPhone 11 is a better phone. The $300 gap between the iPhone SE and the iPhone 11 is sizable, though, and not everyone will find the bigger phone’s advantages worth the bump in price.
How long will it last?
The iPhone SE is a five-year phone. Its performance is excellent and Apple, unlike most Android brands, delivers OS updates for years after a phone is released. The only issue to note is battery life. It’s merely OK and, after five years of wear and tear, you’ll probably have to deal with midday recharging.
Should you buy it?
Yes. The iPhone SE is a solid entry-level iPhone. You can buy a better device, but you don’t need a better device. If you, like me, consider a smartphone to be just one of many gadgets you could spend money on, opting for the $400 SE can make a lot of sense.
Editors’ Recommendations
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Thinking postmodern / Searching for the now.
Download the show here. Stream at the link above.
Artist - Song Title - Album Title - Label
The Beakers - Thinking Postmodern - Four Steps Toward a Cultural Revolution - K The Vores - Amateur Surgeon - Love Canal EP - Family Only Neon - Neon - s/t EP - Water Wing Catastrophe Bizarre - Entertainment - Melodien Für Schöne Stunden cassette - Limbabwe Los Cripis - Angry Country - Our First Album cassette - Fariscal Toy Love - Don't Catch Fire - s/t - Flying Nun Violent Femmes - Never Tell - Hallowed Ground - Slash Structure - Dull - s/t EP - self-released Tactics - National Health - My Houdini - Green Jaqui & Jeanette - 194 Radio City - V/A - Street to Street: A Liverpool Album - Open Eye Gang of Four - Return the Gift - Entertainment! - EMI Sally Skull - The Running Kind - Factious EP - Slampt Dancette - Going Green - Going Green 7" - Bel Tronics - Spending Time - Love Backed by Force - What's Your Rupture? Pennycress - Forget - Change the Feeling cassette - Comidillo Tapes Wreck Small Speakers on Expensive Stereos - Rain - V/A - Xpressway Pile=Up - Avalanche Lucky Pierre - Communique - Communique 7" - Unadulterated Television Personalities - The Painted Word - The Painted Word - Illuminated Unrest - Love to Know - Isabel Bishop EP - Teenbeat UV-TV - Violent Days - Go Away EP - Emotional Response 21-645 - Red Red - V/A - Nobody Gets on the Guest List - Throbbing Lobster Fastbacks - It's Your Birthday - It's Your Birthday 7" - No Threes Reverse - Local Trash - Synchysis - Whiplash The Adult Net - Searching for the Now - Incense & Peppermints EP - Beggars Banquet Flesh World - Destination Moon - Into the Shroud - Dark Entries Oil Tasters - My Girlfriend's Ghost - s/t - Thermidor Dennis C. Lee & the Living Daylights - White Heat - Dada Pop EP - Dada Pop Ron House & Matt Wyatt - Broken Man - V/A - Songs From a Room EP - Sing, Eunuchs! Chrome - TV As Eyes - Half Machine Lip Moves - Siren St. Vincent & the Grenadines - Side of Life - Look to See 7" - Randstock Eddy Current Suppression Ring - Memory Lane - Primary Colours - Goner Fitness Womxn - Erosion - s/t EP - self-released
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Samsung Galaxy Fold review
New Post has been published on https://newsprofixpro.com/moxie/2019/10/03/samsung-galaxy-fold-review/
Samsung Galaxy Fold review
Our Verdict The Galaxy Fold delivers a ‘wow’ factor that no other phone offers today, and yet we’d only recommend it to early adopters with a penchant for impressing their peers, and who have money to burn. It’s a technical marvel, with technical limitations, and it makes us hopeful for a more fully rounded sequel.
For
Supremely cool form factor
Gaming taken to the next level
Samsung’s biggest battery
Against
Outrageously expensive
Vulnerable plastic screen
Two-minute reviewThe Samsung Galaxy Fold is the most forward-thinking smartphone of 2019, finally delivering on the promise of a foldable phone, and instantly proving a real head-turner out on the streets. And yet, it’s still not something we can recommend to most people.Wherever we went with the Fold, people wanted to know what this thing was and how it worked. We demonstrated how it folds down to a 4.6-inch outer screen, and folds out out to become a 7.3-inch mini-tablet display – and it always amazed. But then the second wow-factor kicks: it’s twice the price of today’s best smartphones, and on top of that it has a troubled track record with regard to durability, which could prove a deal-breaker for many potential buyers.Samsung has refined the Galaxy Fold over the course of a five-month delay to its launch, reinforcing the points where it broke in the hands of early reviewers. But we’re still in constant fear of pixel tearing, or damaging the vulnerable plastic screen.Good news: right now the bendable screen of our Galaxy Fold review unit is as pristine as the day we unboxed it a week ago. It comes with a crease down the middle, but this is only visible when it catches glare. A bigger deal is the uneven refresh rate across the larger display: as you scroll pages, one side lags ever so slightly behind the other – it’s barely perceptible, but you can’t unsee it once you realize it’s there.The Galaxy Fold is the best example of why foldable is the future of smartphones. Its 7.3-inch screen is built for productivity. We multi-tasked with three apps open on a phone, as if this were a tablet. Editing photos is easier, gaming takes a gigantic leap, and showing someone a complicated spreadsheet is doable.Its folded size is satisfying for one reason: we loved carrying a small phone again. It’ll go unappreciated in photos, and the extensive bezel around the 4.6-inch screen makes it feel cramped; but hold this tall, chunky, yet narrow phone in your hand and you’ll swear glass phones aren’t slippery after all. We felt confident one-handing it on busy streets.The Galaxy Fold inherits the power and cameras of the Galaxy S10 Plus, which is nice, but we missed some photo and video modes offered by the Note 10 Plus – that five-month delay means Samsung’s latest and most cutting-edge phone isn’t actually its most capable camera-wise. You also won’t find an S Pen stylus tucked inside (which it wouldn’t be wise to use on a plastic screen anyway, but still). Battery life was the toughest to judge. At 4,380mAh, the battery here is Samsung’s biggest, and lasted us a day-and-a-half. But battery life varied wildly based on how long we had that big screen open – we killed it in less than a day when we tried.The Samsung Galaxy Fold feels like the biggest sensation since the original iPhone – and, really, that’s the only reason to take a $2,000 risk on it. This phone is strictly for early adopters with money to burn and a penchant for impressing, and it’ll end up in a drawer with Google Glass and other gadgets ahead of their time. Everyone else should wait for something cheaper, better, and more durable in a few months.(Image credit: Future)Samsung Galaxy Fold release date and priceDouble the price of flagship phones: $1,980 / £1,800 (€2,000)Launched in September in the US, UK and South KoreaIt was originally set to debut on April 26, 2019Two colors: Cosmos Black or Space Silver (Martian Green and Astro Blue have been axed)The Samsung Galaxy Fold release date was staggered throughout September, and getting your hands on it wasn’t easy. It first came out in South Korea September 6, and made its UK debut September 18, when it sold out immediately. There’s no work yet on pricing or availability for Australia, but you can register for updates at Samsung’s website.The Galaxy Fold US release date was Friday, September 27, five months and one day after its original April 26 launch date. During this hiatus, Samsung tweaked the hardware, but the price remained the same: very high.The Fold costs $1,980 / £1,800 (€2,000), twice the price of an iPhone 11 Pro. You can buy it through Samsung, local stores like Best Buy, or exclusive carrier partners: EE in the UK and AT&T in the US (it’s $66 a month for 30 months). Note: the UK has the 5G version, while the US is limited to 4G LTE. Samsung packs in its Samsung Galaxy Buds, giving you a bit more for your money, and offers a Galaxy Premier Service 24/7 dedicated support service by phone, video chat, or in-person visit for the lifetime of the device. Then there’s a one-year limited warranty, and a one-time $150 screen replacement fee if a wrecked display is your fault.The price is our biggest hangup. It’s hard to justify such an exorbitant price for a device that, while supremely cool, clearly isn’t time-tested and feels awfully vulnerable. We’re also kind of disappointed that Cosmos Black and Space Silver are the only two colors – gone are Martian Green and Astro Blue, the two other options from the initial launch lineup.(Image credit: Future)Foldable design and durabilityGalaxy Fold specsWeight: 276gFolded: 62.8 x 160.9 x 17.1mmUnfolded: 117.9 x 160.9 x 7.6mmOS: Android 9Main screen size: 7.3-inchResolution: QXGA+ (2152 x 1536)Cover screen size: 4.6-inchResolution: HD+ (1680 x 720)CPU: Octa-coreRAM: 12GBStorage: 512GBBattery (4G): 4,380mAhBattery (5G): 4,235mAhCover camera: 10MPFront camera: 10MP + 8MPRear camera: 16MP + 12MP + 12MPThe arrival of the Samsung Galaxy Fold gives you the opportunity to own the future of smartphones and tablets, with a 2-in-1 design that just makes sense – if the bendable screen technology holds up.It marries a tall, narrow 4.6-inch ‘cover’ display behind glass on the outside with the foldable, mini-tablet-like 7.3-inch ‘main’ display behind plastic on the inside. Samsung calls this the Infinity Flex Display, and its design really does dazzle.The key to the Galaxy Fold’s book-like foldable design is a 20-part, dual-axis locking hinge that prevents the display from overextending past 180 degrees. Whereas the screen is delicate, the hinge feels like it’s been meticulously engineered to withstand abuse.Opening and closing the Fold feels buttery smooth, and closing it ends with a satisfying magnetic click, like you’ve just closed up a book. Remember what it was like to hang up on people with a flip phone or even an old telephone? That feeling is back – only now, you’ll probably swallow them up in a video call.Also coming back is smartphone heft. In its folded state, the Galaxy Fold is 17.1mm thick and weighs 276g; for comparison, the big-and-heavy Note 10 Plus is just 7.9mm and 196g. However, it’s narrower than you might think, and despite its thickness it isn’t hard to slip into a jeans pocket – it’ll even fit into tight-yet-deep jacket pockets that other phones can’t fit into, although there’s no escaping the fact that it’ll look like you’re packing two phones back-to-back.(Image credit: Future)Unfolded, it’s a reasonable 7.6mm thick. You’ll find a fingerprint sensor, power/Bixby key, and volume rocker on the right (all accessible when the Fold is open or closed), and two speakers at the top and bottom. It’s easy to cover up these powerful Dolby Atmos stereo speakers when you’re playing games or watching videos in landscape orientation. Pro tip: instead of uncomfortably choking up your grip, try rotating the Fold 180 degrees – most apps will rotate just fine.When it’s closed, an all-glass design envelopes the phone’s outside. The glass is slippery, but we found its folded size so easy to grasp that we didn’t feel the need to use the two-piece Aramid Fiber case that came in the box. This ease of handling is one of the things that struck us the most in our testing – while everything else about the Fold has a futuristic vibe, its narrow size took us back to a time when phones were easy to hold in one hand.If you love big screens, but are tired of juggling big phones, this is the biggest phone we’ve tested… and smallest (recent phone) at the same time. It’s an idea that’s been more than 10 years in the making and, as Samsung likes to say, went through 1,000 different prototypes. It’s not a bad start, but there’s surely more innovation to come.Image 1 of 2(Image credit: Future)Image 2 of 2(Image credit: Future)Screen7.3-inch main display inside and 4.6-inch cover display outsideReading, browsing and gaming look great in 4.2:3 aspect ratioMost movies have letterboxing in 16:9 aspect ratioGreat: HDR10+ and brightness; not great: middle crease and uneven refresh rate Beyond the mesmerizing foldable design, the main display is impressive with only a few technical caveats, illustrating the cutting-edge and its obvious downfalls. The 7.3-inch display makes web browsing 1.4 times bigger than the Galaxy Note 10 Plus, and videos and games can appear 2.2 times bigger if they take up the full screen. It’s the reason to own a foldable phone. Alas, most video in the traditional 16:9 aspect ratio will only be 1.3 times bigger, with big black letterboxing at the top and bottom.We found the big screen better for reading, web browsing, and gaming thanks to its 4.2:3 aspect ratio. This mirrors the traditional 4:3 TVs we did away with 15 years ago, but going back makes sense: it offers a broader view and makes way for Muti-Active Window mode. We had three apps open at once, and it was fairly usable. Samsung has outfitted the Galaxy Fold with HDR10+, which bumps up the contrast ratio considerably on supported video content, and made it bright enough to be solidly visibly outdoors. You will find glare literally shines a light on the middle crease, indoors or outdoors, and you can feel the groove. The good news: like a notch, your brain will ignore it in time.Harder to ignore is the uneven refresh rate. Scroll through a text-filled webpage and you’ll notice the words shift unevenly across the 7.3-inch display. Samsung makes the best phone displays, so this is a compromise we didn’t expect. Its bezel-heavy 4.6-inch Cover Display also shouts “first-gen product”. Yes, the foldable future is great, but it has some obvious pain points you should know about.(Image credit: Future)InterfaceApp Continuity allows you to easily transition between screensMulti-Active Window allows you to have 3 apps open at once Samsung’s fold hardware is only half of the story. Its software was made reactive to the transition from the small phone screen to the larger tablet screen, and it does that fairly well with a feature called App Continuity.Apps Continuity allowed us to browse Chrome, Yelp reviews, and Google Maps while walking with the phone folded, and then seamlessly open up to those same apps on the larger screen when we came to a standstill (usually lost in the wilds of Central Park and needing finer directions in Google Maps). The reverse – keeping apps open when you fold the phone – is also possible, but we had to tick off each app in a display settings submenu. Apps we enabled to go from big screen to small screen included Messages, Slack, Chrome and Google Maps – things we’d want to keep using upon exiting a subway in folded mode. Otherwise, Cover Display ends things and shows the always-on screen (time, date, battery life).Samsung’s says “the possibilities are endless with Multi-Active Window”. That’s true if “endless” is defined by up to three active apps open at once. It’s cramped for sure, but we had a Google Sheet open in the biggest window, a Hangouts call going in a smaller box, and Slack in the tiniest windows to at least see the latest message from our TechRadar team. Sadly, not all apps, including Hangouts Meet, work in Multi-Active Window mode, and creating App Pairs is strangely not a thing on the Samsung Galaxy Fold – yet.(Image credit: Future)PerformanceAs fast as the Galaxy Note 10, but the iPhone 11 series is still faster12GB of RAM does even out having three apps open at once512GB of internal storage, but no microSD slot for any more spaceSamsung Galaxy Fold isn’t going to outpace the performance of current phones, as if this were a specced-out gaming desktop at an absurd price. You’re paying for the screen innovation, not the latest chipset. That said, it matches the Galaxy S10 and Note 10 performance numbers thanks to its use of the Snapdragon 855 chipset.Yes, Samsung could have opted to include the higher-end Snapdragon 855 Plus, but it stuck with the configuration announced in April. More importantly, it has 12GB of RAM that gives it a high yield when multiple apps are open.It earned a multi-core score of 2,598, according to our Geekbench 5 benchmarking tests, with only the iPhone 11 Pro earning noticeably better marks (3,420). Without any noticeable lag, your foldable phone should be good to last – internally at least. The Fold can act as an makeshift tripod when half bent(Image credit: Future)Cameras1 Cover Display camera, 2 inner front cameras, 3 rear camerasOverall quality is very similar to the Galaxy S10 PlusGreat photos with fun filters, although not ‘the best cameras’There are six Samsung Galaxy Fold cameras, and they’re all technically the same as the five S10 Plus and four Note 10 cameras. Let us explain and show you the mix.The Cover Display has a single 10MP selfie camera with a f2.2 aperture, a pixel size of 1.22 microns, and a field of view of 80 degrees. It’s the same configuration as the Note 10 front camera, only it can’t shoot Live Focus video, the Live Focus photos are just okay, and we’ve mostly used it for unlocking the phone when device is closed.When unfolded, the dual front cameras on the inside consist of the same 10MP selfie camera and an 8MP RGB camera (f1.9, 1.12 microns, and 85 degree FoV). The latter is meant for depth-sensing and comes from the S10 Plus dual camera hole-punch (the S10 Plus version is only a hair wider with a 90 degree FoV). We used this for Live Focus selfies with fun filters like the selective black-and-white Color Point mode.Image 1 of 22(Image credit: Future)Galaxy Fold telephoto camera lensImage 2 of 22(Image credit: Future)Galaxy Fold regular camera lensImage 3 of 22(Image credit: Future)Galaxy Fold ultra-wide camera lensImage 4 of 22(Image credit: Future)Galaxy Fold telephoto camera lens at night (without night mode)Image 5 of 22(Image credit: Future)Galaxy Fold regular camera lens at night (without night mode)Image 6 of 22(Image credit: Future)Galaxy Fold regular camera lens at night (WITH night mode)Image 7 of 22(Image credit: Future)Galaxy Fold regular camera lens Live Filter Color Point modeImage 8 of 22(Image credit: Future)Galaxy Fold selfie camera (tighter Field of View)Image 9 of 22(Image credit: Future)Galaxy Fold selfie camera (wider Field of View)Image 10 of 22(Image credit: Future)Galaxy Fold telephoto camera lensImage 11 of 22(Image credit: Future)Galaxy Fold regular camera lensImage 12 of 22(Image credit: Future)Galaxy Fold ultra-wide camera lensImage 13 of 22(Image credit: Future)Galaxy Fold telephoto camera lensImage 14 of 22(Image credit: Future)Galaxy Fold regular camera lensImage 15 of 22(Image credit: Future)Galaxy Fold ultra-wide camera lensImage 16 of 22(Image credit: Future)Galaxy Fold regular camera lensImage 17 of 22(Image credit: Future)Galaxy Fold regular camera lens at nightImage 18 of 22(Image credit: Future)Galaxy Fold regular camera lensImage 19 of 22(Image credit: Future)Galaxy Fold regular camera lens in low-lightImage 20 of 22(Image credit: Future)Galaxy Fold Live Focus mode with Color Point filterImage 21 of 22(Image credit: Future)Galaxy Fold Live Focus mode with Blur filterImage 22 of 22(Image credit: Future)Galaxy Fold Live Focus mode with Color Point filterOn the back of the Fold, the three rear cameras come straight from the S10 Plus: a 12MP regular camera (f/1.5 + f/2.4, 1.4 microns, 77 degree FoV), a 12MP telephoto camera (f2.4, 1 micron, 45 degree FoV), and the ultra-wide camera (f/2.2, 1 micron, 123 degree FoV).Samsung has the best ultra-wide camera, even with the iPhone 11 series getting a very similar 120-degree camera. Sadly, the Fold misses the upgrades that came in the Note 10 and Note 10 Plus: a slightly better f/2.2 telephoto lens, Live Focus video (it’s okay, that mode wasn’t great), and new Live Focus photo filter Big Circles.You’re going to be impressed no matter what with these cameras. The app is robust, yet easy-to-use, and launching it is still a cinch – just double press the power button. Side-by-side photo comparisons show some odd coloring and Night Mode isn’t as bright as in the iPhone 11 Pro, but no one is doing ultra-wides as well nor have filters as good as Color Point, and that makes Samsung’s cameras the most fun to use.(Image credit: Future)BatteryTwo batteries combining for a super-sized 4,380mah capacityWe averaged a day-and-a-half on average, but varied wildlyNot Super Fast Charging compatible like the Note 10 seriesRule of thumb: the bigger the smartphone, the larger the battery capacity. That rule also comes with a caveat: the bigger the screen, the more battery life the phone requires.Samsung’s 4,380mah battery capacity is its largest and so is the 7.3-inch display. The combination of big battery and big screen averaged out to a day-and-a-half of battery life with steady use in our tests. We had the main display open two-thirds of the time, and the Cover Display active one third of the time when we actively used the phone.Subsequent testing proved that we could deplete the battery in a single day by gaming a bunch, binge-watching videos, and running multiple apps at once – basically running screen-on time to the max, the way a power user would on a long-haul flight. Fold battery life varies wildly based on which of the two screens you use and for how long. You might come away with more battery life from the Samsung Galaxy Note 10 Plus, which consistently lasted us a slightly more than a day-and-half in our tests.Samsung’s Super Fast Charging is the one thing we’re missing, and that’s important for a phone with such a big battery. It comes with a Galaxy S10-era 15W charger, but the 25W charger included with the Note 10 series and the optional 45W charger aren’t just absent – they aren’t even compatible, and won’t benefit this massive phone.(Image credit: Future)Buy it if…You want to impress the world with your phoneYou can be a show off, too! We love talking technology and there was no better conversation starter than the Fold. The bendable screen provides a ‘wow’ factor like no other phone.You want to game on a great big screenWe’re more convinced than ever that mobile games will be the killer app for foldables. Going back to an iPhone afterward felt like we were playing games on a candybar-style feature phone.Don’t buy it if…You can wait for the next foldable phoneWe’re not even going to tell you ‘don’t buy this because it’s expensive’. That’s obvious. Even if you have the money, waiting until 2020 for an inevitable sequel is like a more logical choice.You just know you’ll break this thingOur Fold has survived, but anything could’ve taken it down – more than the usual suspects like keys, water, and sand, too. We’re talking about credit cards or coins lodged in the middle of the folded screen or even excessive pressure.
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HEATHEN DISCO for Sun Feb 17th 2019 -- LISTEN
Here’s the show.
Playlist below:
Ulaan Passerine - Dawning
Writhing Squares - A Whole New Jupiter
Glorias Navales - Richie (Ab Mix)
Terry Callier - Trance on Sedgewick Street
Bobbie Gentry - Courtyard
Snake & Friends - Men's Shed
Headroom - Sound of Starlight
Jah Division - Transmission Dub
Robert Lester Folsom - See You Later, I'm Gone
The Mice - Not Proud of the USA
Grauzone - Alone in the Jungle
Deaf Wish - Gentle Mental Illness / Backwards
Sporten Är Död - Der Weltcup
Black Taffy - Land of Nod
Collate - Communication
Parsnip - Counterfeit
My Bloody Valentine - I Believe
Adam and the Ants - Cleopatra
Laughing Clowns - Ghost of an Ideal Wife
Marvin Gaye - "T" Plays it Cool
Treepeople - (I'm Gonna) Miss You (When You're Dead)
Dark Blue - When You Leave Me in the Summer
Luxurious Bags - Eyes Tell Me, Hands Tell Me
Ill Considered - Professor
Sebadoh - Vampire
Wreck Small Speakers on Expensive Stereos - Lots of Hearts
Bowery Electric - Lushlife
Letha Rodman Melchior - Petavius
Bremen - Vanishing Point
Howlin' Wolf - Spoonful
Country Teasers - Wizmo!
Ween - Demon Sweat
Ned Collette - June
Blades of Joy - Grey Day (demo)
Boy Harsher - Lost
Tim Presley's White Fence - Harm Reduction (A: Mourning)
Bright Ideas - Grapevines
Mini Dresses - Fantasy Nails
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The Best Car Amplifiers for your Sound System
The best car amplifier is an important part of any audio system because it’s what really drives your speakers. Most of the in-dash units feature an integrated amp, but for many high-end systems this might not offer enough power to properly drive the speakers. Enter the car amp. An amp will take the output signal that’s provided by the stereo, after all of the equalization and processing has been done, and will raise its power before it sends it to the speakers. For the avid music lover, this is definitely an important purchase because there aren’t many stereo components that will have this much impact on overall sound quality. If you don’t choose the right amp, not only can it destroy the sound your stereo produces, but it can also wreck your speakers. Picking the right type of amp will ensure that any stereo system sounds as good as possible. Purchasing an amp may sound a little daunting, but by taking a few factors into consideration before you make your purchase it can be a fast and simple process.
Cost is a huge factor that will determine which model you end up buying, but with amps, it’s not the best indication for quality. Which is why it’s so important to pay attention to how each model rated with consumers and what they had to say regarding their experiences with each model. Comparison shopping is crucial in order to find a model that will work with your set up and turn your sound system into speaker nirvana.
The Car Amp Buying Guide
Before you start looking at amps, it’s a good idea to learn a little bit about how speakers work, because the existence of an amp is a result of limited speaker technology. In the simplest terms, a speaker is basically a pump that’s both efficient and simple. A pulsed magnet is used to cause the internal membrane to vibrate, moving the air in order to create a variety of pressure waves that are interpreted as sound. The larger the membrane the quicker it will vibrate, resulting in the need for more power. The issue with this setup is that while a lot of power is needed for certain models of speakers, the same amount of power can also tear the membrane on a smaller set of speakers, a process which is referred to as blowing out your speakers. Once your speakers are blown out, they’re useless and will need to be replaced.
And because of this common issue, the average stereo systems in cars will only offer a limited amount of power to the output, in order to ensure that the stock speakers are not damaged the moment you turn them on. If you’re someone who owns powerful, large speakers then this type of power may not be adequate for your system, preventing them from making any sound. If they do make sound it will definitely be at the expense of the speakers. An amp is able to provide the extra power needed, enabling your car’s stereo system to drive the speakers that draw more power than the in-dash unit is able to put out.
An amp actually looks like nothing more than a plain box that’s attached between the speakers and the stereo. Some models are incredibly plain while others are covered with cooling fins and brightly painted exteriors. But what really matters isn’t the outside of the amp, but the overall functionality. Find out how much power an amp is able to provide, before you buy. You should also take a look at how the power is divided between the outputs and the total amount of outputs there are. Next, learn about the number of channels the amp features and how much space is needed to install it. These are all questions that you should have answered in order to choose the right type of amp for your car and your needs.
Finding the Right Amp to Power your Stereo System
The output power is the most important feature of an amp. This is usually expressed in watts and refers to the total amount of output available across every channel. This amount of power is then divided by the amount of channels in order to configure how much power needs to be sent to each speaker. It’s very important that every channel is able to supply the right amount of power in order to drive the speakers. Not providing enough power to a speaker can be more harmful than too much power. If a speaker is trying to draw more power than the amp is able to provide the signal will become distorted. This distortion is then turned into heat in the speaker and the buildup of heat can cause a speaker to fail. You should pay close attention to the output power available and make sure that you match your speakers to the amp.
An amp is usually described as having two, four, five or six channels. It’s important that you pay attention to the number of channels available in order to determine what kind and how many speakers it can support. The output channels come in a couple varieties: mono and stereo. The stereo channel works by transmitting either a left or right side signal. The mono channel will deliver one signal with both a right and left audio signal. The mono channels are often used for subs. A car amp with an odd number of channels typically points to the presence of a dedicated mono channel. This type of channel is used to drive a sub.
Amps that don’t have a dedicated channel for a subwoofer can still drive one if the amp supports it by using a tri-way mode or by bridging a couple of channels. The tri-way mode involves utilizing a crossover in order to mix a couple of channels into three, using a single low frequency mono channel and a couple of higher frequency channels to drive the sub. The major flaw in the tri-mode method is the fact that it ties the sub’s volume to the stereo speakers, which means you’ll be unable to adjust it separately.
Why the Amount of Channels Matters
When you’re shopping for an amp, you should first try to find one that features a sufficient amount of channels to drive a sub separately from the stereo’s speakers. Another option is to invest in a small amp specifically for the subwoofer. Unless you’re certain that you won’t be installing additional speakers, the best option is to purchase an amp that has a sufficient amount of channels to support an expansion in the future.
A high-quality amp can require a lot of power. Because of this, many of these amps must be wired directly to the car’s battery in order to receive sufficient power. This will also allow you to install an additional fuse at the connection to the battery in order to improve safety. It’s also important to mention that a more powerful amp will need a higher rated alternator than what’s commonly found in smaller cars. While unlikely, it’s still a factor to consider when you’re putting a powerful amp in a car that has a smaller engine. You should also keep in mind that an amp also needs a separate connection to the stereo in order to power on, if you fail to do this it can drain your car battery.
Because an amp uses a ton of power, they can also generate a lot of heat. This type of heat is why a lot of amps feature aluminum casings that come with cooling fins built-in. The fins will allow the heat from the amp to be transferred to the surrounding air. When installed, the amp must be setup so that the air is able to circulate around it, otherwise it won’t be able to carry the heat away. Smaller car amps are much easier to mount because they don’t require much room for airflow. A smaller amp can also be installed under a car seat, while a larger amp needs to be mounted in the rear cargo area.
Considered a vital component for any sound system, the car amp should be your first purchase if you want to improve the volume and quality of your sound system. Amps are usually readily available from a number of online and local sources. Locally, you can find them at most auto centers, and car audio specialty retailers. There are plenty of online sites that are dedicated to audio sound systems, just be sure to choose a reputable dealer to go through.
What the Amp can do for your Sound System
If a speaker is considered the pump, then the amp must be the engine that drives it. Because an amp can either utterly destroy your speakers or bring out the best in them, it’s important that consumers keep the speakers they currently have in mind when searching for the right amp. Amps that don’t have sufficient output for power can easily ruin an expensive pair of speakers faster than anything else can. Aside from output power, a good amp also needs enough channels to drive the speakers in the audio system, including the sub. While the sub can also be driven without a channel, flexibility and performance will usually suffer. Last of all, you should pay close attention to the cooling requirements and power draw of the amp in order to choose the best model to fit your specific needs. If you balance these factors against your budget, the decision as to which amp to buy will become a simple one.
Preview
Recommended
Product Name
NVX True 900 watt RMS 5-Channel [JAD Series] Class D Car Full Range Amplifier [JAD900.5]
Rockford Fosgate Prime 1,200-Watt Class-D 1-Channel Amplifier
Alpine PDX-V9 Alpine 1600W Max, 5-Channel Digital Car Amplifier 5CH Amp RUX-KNOB.2 Remote Bass Level Control And 4 Gauge Amp Kit
Price
$219.99
$239.88
$549.99
Buy on Amazon
Buy on Amazon
Buy on Amazon
Buy on Amazon
Preview
Product Name
NVX True 900 watt RMS 5-Channel [JAD Series] Class D Car Full Range Amplifier [JAD900.5]
Price
$219.99
Buy on Amazon
Buy on Amazon
Recommended
Preview
Product Name
Rockford Fosgate Prime 1,200-Watt Class-D 1-Channel Amplifier
Price
$239.88
Buy on Amazon
Buy on Amazon
Preview
Product Name
Alpine PDX-V9 Alpine 1600W Max, 5-Channel Digital Car Amplifier 5CH Amp RUX-KNOB.2 Remote Bass Level Control And 4 Gauge Amp Kit
Price
$549.99
Buy on Amazon
Buy on Amazon
NVX True JAD Series Class D Car Full Range Amplifier Review
The True class D car amp is a five channel model that features a dedicated sub channel and four channels for mids and highs. A sleek, compact model, this amp is easy to install and fine tune. Most users noted that it took approximately one week of use to break this amp in. Doing so also involved making slight adjustments to the settings for the ultimate sound. The dedicated channel for the sub works both clean and smooth and the amp’s controls are easily accessible.
Click here to read the full NVX True JAD series class D car full range amplifier review
Rockford Fosgate Prime Class-D 1-Channel Amplifier Review
The Prime class D one channel car amp by Rockford Fosgate is a twelve hundred watt amp that features a variable crossover at twelve DBs. This model packs some serious power and is able to respond quickly to peak demands. The sleek, cool design allows you to install this amp anywhere in your car with ease. Definitely a model that has a reputation for putting out some deep bass, this amp is highly adjustable and received a high consumer rating for its standout features and ease of use. Users can also set up a wired remote knob for easier access to bass control. This is our highest rated model, receiving a perfect five out of five star score.
Alpine PDX V9 5 Channel Extreme Power Density Digital Amplifier Review
The PDX V9 five channel digital car amp by Alpine is rated at 1600 watts and is equipped with easy access front panel controls and clear, booming bass. This model is described as versatile and compact and offers enough power to boost your entire speaker system including subs. Described as an all in one amp, you’ll only have to use one power cable for the entire setup, which will significantly cut down on install time and complexity. The quick release feature makes this amp very portable, which is a big selling point for some consumers. If space is an issue in your car and you’re looking for a powerful amp to drive your system, this model is definitely for you. These are the top 3 best car amplifiers we have found, Check the links on this page for detailed reviews for each model.
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Aussie/NYC band Free Time offers a little Jangle Jargon as Eric “Eggman” Eggleson finds out....
When Tim Hinely sent me a link to Free Time’s Bandcamp page, I couldn’t stop playing it. I ended up buying everything they had available on their site, but I kept coming back to the new album. I decided to find out more about the band, so I sent Dion Nania, formally from Melbourne and now in Brooklyn, a few questions as a way to review the album.
When did you move to Brooklyn and why did you move there?
I first came to NYC in 2011. It was mostly to do with my partner at the time getting a job here, but also, I was kind of at a loose end; my previous main band Panel of Judges had reached a natural conclusion and I’d just finished a grad school thing. Free Time came together the next year.
I see some of the songs were from 2017, why the five year wait?
Well, at that moment in history we had the three songs and the idea to cover the Green On Red song. We didn’t have a full band at the time, but Marty Frawley was temporarily in town, so he played bass, and then we happened to get a royalty cheque sufficient for a handful of days recording. I’m not exactly a prolific songwriter, so the remaining songs came together in the years since. They were mostly written by the time the pandemic hit, which proved to be an opportunity for Jonah and me to demo the remaining songs in our social ‘pod.’ As things eased a bit, Mike, Jonah, and I started to rehearse in preparation for recording in mid and late 2021.
I also was a teacher, what is your “academic work”?
I’m a PhD candidate in a Politics department, and teach at various colleges around the city. I tend to teach classes around the politics of the carceral state, and my research looks at the role of prison work in the US carceral political economy, and at contemporary in-prison social movements with a focus on the national prison strikes of 2016 and 2018.
I taught in a juvenile boys prison for ten years (it references my Gmail account and also a fave GbV song)!
Oh wow.
The album’s opener, “Never Your Turn,” is a quick, bouncy pop song with Ukraine References.
It was written, and recorded, before the recent Russian invasion, so there is no political commentary on that taking place. It just so happens that the individual who evoked that lyric is from there. From my point of view, that line was spliced into the song and jars with the rest of the ‘narrative,’ obtuse as that may be. But I often do that, just splice in lines from stanzas written without any conscious relation to each other, to see what effects are produced.
Track 2, “Beak In A Cup,” is my absolute favorite of the album. Can’t stop playing it. Beautiful keys that sound almost like horns. Is it actually about becoming a bird, flying away from reality? What does it need to escape from?
I mean, it is some kind of metaphor, but at times fairly literal, with the references to drinking for example. It gestures toward the idea that it is only in certain states or circumstances that we have the capacity to care about others in abroad and capacious way, rather than something we are able to do all the time. Then there is some mean breakup rhetoric shoe-horned into the second verse.
“Half Measures” is another bouncy number straight out of the Flying Nun catalog with an interesting storyline. Any favorite Flying Nun bands?
Well, I’m shooting for a bit of a political anthem here. The first verse tries to evoke the seamlessness of capitalist realism, or hegemony, suggesting the need for rupture rather than reform. The middle 8 is towards a more expansive conception of the working class. The second verse is pushback against the neoliberal demand to love one’s work.
Whoa, you lost me here, love your passion for politics!
Haha thanks. The day job has been leaking into the songs, for better or worse! And yes, I do like a lot of Flying Nun bands, The Clean, Tall Dwarfs, The Chills, Look Blue Go Purple, The Puddle, Wreck Small Speakers on Expensive Stereos, Bailter Space, Snapper, etc. I saw Bailter Space a month ago here in NYC, it was great.
Track 4, “The Terrace,” is a slow, beautiful song that reminds me of The Cure’s “Boys Don’t Cry,” but then takes off in a different direction. My only complaint, it’s too short.
With the next song, “Long Centuries,” pianos highlight this one, but then it has Furs’ vibe with its saxophone-sounding synths coming in. “Long centuries overlap,” is history repeating itself with tragedy in the world?
Yes, that’s about right. Kind of mapping feudal hierarchy onto our current system. The ‘poacher hanging from the tree’ refers to the enclosure movement, the proletarianization of English peasants.
“That’s Rare,” showcases fast-paced guitar work with interesting lyrics of flowers and furniture. A definite toe tapper.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5dLUZDNjcPk
The title track, “Jangle Jargon,” definitely begins with soft, beautiful jangle and then ends with sonic, distorted bliss. How did you pick this for the title?
Well, in a way, this song is about what can and cannot be said in the ‘jangle genre.’ Or about what tends to be said, and also the meanings listeners derive as they listen, and the expectations they might have. So, it is a jargon, or an argot, and I’m trying to explore its contours from within. Part of what I’m interested in is how I can cobble together something actually kind of meaningless to me and present it in this genre context, and still evoke an emotional response. So, for this song some of the lines were just written using chance operations, opening a book at a certain page, randomly generating a number, “45” for example, then selecting the 45th word on the page. Then repeating that, then shifting things around to give the impression of coherence and meaning.
What a very cool look into your songwriting.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LGwwNMH_BiI
Next is “Disciplines And Mastery,” which has a different approach, dare I say a “Bossa Nova” vibe? Totally lost on the lyrics here, care to explain what you were getting at?
This one is about life in academia! It is a bit tongue-in-cheek, but that aside it is pretty straightforwardly about that. I hope it makes some sense now, knowing that.
Track 9, “Turn It Over,” is an upbeat pop song complete with dog barks, what can you not like? It then takes off into a dreamy beach-like vacation vibe with swirling guitars.
The album’s closer is “Lost World.” Covering Green On Red, nice, great band. Seems to tie into the theme of this album; wondering what is going on in our world.
Yeah, it does seem to me to capture contemporary doom quite well.
You performed live in New York recently, how did that go? Who is your live band?
It was fun! It was just our second show since the pandemic. The NYC lineup is Mike Mimoun plays drums, he used to co-run the record label Underwater Peoples and has played in various other things., Jonah Maurer on guitar, and used to play in Real Estate and still occasionally plays in Liquor Store. They are Americans. Amy Franz is Australian like me, plays the bass and used to be in Super Wild Horses. I’m on guitar and vocals. Mike and Jonah have been in the group since the beginning and played on all the records, Amy has guested with the band in the past, but has now joined as bass player.
Any chance of touring the new album?
Touring Australia in Jan/Feb. No plans here as yet. Not averse to the idea, but it would be tricky with our schedules, and we don’t have a booking agent.
If you were stranded on an island, what would be your top five desert island discs?
Ok sure. Standard disclaimer: this is arbitrary, and I cannot speak for my future self. In no particular order:
On the Other Ocean - David Behrman
Quasimodo’s Dream - The Reels
Cucumber Castle - The Bee Gees
16 Lovers Lane - The Go-Betweens
Detours - “Blue” Gene Tyranny
What was the first record you ever bought?
I think it was a record by Pseudo Echo, who were a cheesy Australian new wave band. I would have been about 8 years old.
What was the first live band you saw?
Bored! and also Warped at the Geelong Performing Arts Center.
Well, there you have it. Hopefully, you’ve learned more about Free Time and why Jangle Jargon is such a great album. The good news is that Dion’s band formed in Brooklyn and not Melbourne. Hopefully, that will mean future concerts around the US. Even though Dion claims to not have any musical training, the variety of jangle pop on here will continue to blast of out my speakers until he creates his next batch of songs.
https://freetimeband.bandcamp.com
BY ERIC EGGLESON
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How to Choose Car Stereo Gear
What to Expect From Car Stereo Gear? A mobile phone Bluetooth headset permits a user to speak on their phone by means of a headset without wires. You may never go wrong whenever you have done what's required to have a Cd player that will serve the critical function of entertaining you and JVC car audio Cd is going to do exactly that. There, you'll get to view all of the most recent JVC car audio Cd players and you're able to get inspired by the incredible models. Stereo speakers are designed to last. This Audio Technica weighs 24 pounds, an extremely substantial slice of equipment. Kicker is the very best subwoofer brand on account of the prolonged warranty they offer! The Benefits of Car Stereo Gear The principal selling quality of the Pyle 12 inch subwoofer is it only weighs 12 lbs, which makes it the ideal candidate for the car enthusiasts looking to continue to keep their vehicles weight low! If you are searching for an enjoyable, powerful, stylish sports coupe that's also good in the snow, the all wheel drive TT is the best course of action within this budget. There are lots of tweeters, subwoofers and ultra-bass systems that would fit in your vehicle, it's only the question of how big a capital are you prepared to throw in your car so that you could begin building your fantasy system. With the suitable wholesale dealer you'll be in a position to. You may purchase the car repair manual for your specific automobile model on the internet or from one of your regional auto parts stores. If you're serious about your vehicle's entertainment system, then you're guaranteed to purchase equipments with good brands. Top Guide of Car Stereo Installation gives entertainment whilst on the street. Knowing this info will say where you have to remove parts from your car. If you are in possession of a good looking car in terrific shape, you may be entitled to a sponsorship. Car Stereo Gear - Is it a Scam? If you reside in or close to a bigger city, there'll be lots of people at what would appear to be all hours. Think of how much you will spend on the auto, and if it is possible to trust them with something that expensive. Possessing a computer handy when on vacation is a significant approach to find all the community hot spots without needing to believe everything the bell boy or concierge lets you know. Imagine your car waiting for you in the early hours, or following you go shopping or following a few drinks with dinner. Sixteen year old drivers get in wrecks all of the moment, since they think they are able to do anything in their vehicle. This car costs a lot more, so make certain its something you prefer. If luck is with you, you might see that the very same company produces the desired quality in amp design. There are lots of manufacturers of car stereo systems on the marketplace. Today you get wide range of high definition car systems on the market for example MP3 players, CD players, LCD players and so forth. This specific stereo has been out for about two decades, so you might have a small trouble finding it. As is frequently the case with junked vehicles, all types of stuff belonging to the preceding owner was still inside. You might not know a lot about either instrument, and your head could be full of dozens of questions. Finding the Best Car Stereo Gear The lost signal problem can be rather annoying particularly when it occurs frequently. Ensuring that the amp has the proper fuse to reduce power from reaching it in the event that there's a short or mechanical issue. Essentially, ported box is the one that is going to make your rear seats shake! The Honest to Goodness Truth on Car Stereo Gear An obvious disadvantage of mounting an auto amplifier beneath a seat is that you will need to take out the seat to install the amp. For an auto speaker company to be deemed as being the ideal subwoofer brand they need to create some effective car subwoofers. One of the common misconceptions as soon as it comes to purchasing a little automobile subwoofer is it is not going to have as much power as the larger 12 or 15 inch subwoofers. The target of the ported box is to emphasize a specific frequency. First off, it's a flat subwoofer which permits it to fit in the smallest trunks. If you are searching for a speaker box to house a single subwoofer, then you're likely to be trying to find a different sort of box. If you wish to guard you're your speaker system even more though you are able to try out a greater frequency. Also, keep in mind that the speakers have the ability to damage your auto so that it's also important to genuinely tighten the screws as the power of the bass should not be underestimated. A tower speaker is a sizable independent model, capable of reproducing a broad range of sound. The Secret to Car Stereo Gear Another display feature to think about is the variable color display, which enables you to alter the color of the lights to coordinate with your interior or private aesthetics. If you're mounting car amps on a car floor or panel you will ought to make certain you understand exactly what's on the opposite side of the panel you're screwing or drilling into. A 6 inch subwoofer might not be your cup of tea, but the simple fact of the situation is the fact that it is what some folks are looking for. The target for this Japanese manufacturer was supposed to bring excellence into the area. It's better to choose a train station that's not being used with respect to broadcast. Take time even when you aren't installing a system, to get familiar with the practice. The New Angle On Car Stereo Gear Just Released If you wind up with an obscure radio, the time a tech will want to reassess the schematic and come with a few mods either might or might be impossible or just too costly to justify. Tell the salesman that you will tell your buddies. From the outside looking in, someone may think that all record players are the very same and produce the exact same sound quality. The War Against Car Stereo Gear Most good vehicle audio specialists will be in a position to steer you in the appropriate direction on this-so don't be scared to ask questions-they would like to help. With the debut of the World Wide Web and this digital world locating a wholesale dealer who will supply the electronics discount items and setting up a digital shop is something which everyone can do because the info is merely at your fingertips. The products are frequently available in major stores and you can create your work simple by visiting online stores.
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Cheap But Highly regarded Bluetooth Speaker
An extremely advanced Bluetooth sound speaker with top-notch features will probably charge you over 200 to 300 dollars. However, out of the the numerous Bluetooth speaker styles out there in the market, there surely are lots of budget-friendly models too. Additionally, one may surely find various designs of Bluetooth speaker under $100.Alternatively, there are also more affordable Bluetooth speaker models that may provide you with exceptional music and meet your needs. So in the case that you find yourself on a limited budget or should you really don't wish to shell out much cash in obtaining a Bluetooth speaker, listed here is a checklist of reasonably priced however dependable Bluetooth speaker models for you. If you are actually planning to buy a Bluetooth speaker and do not like to shell out big the following speakers are the type you need to go for. If you are interested in obtaining a cheap low cost speaker with great features, have a look at the speaker units noted listed here. One will most likely spot very little differences between the high-priced ones and the cheaper ones. In these times, each and every Bluetooth speaker models come equipped using modern technology features and thus you can not detect lots of contrast amongst inexpensive speakers and the expensive ones. Many of the Bluetooth speakers are actually quite similar in components and so all the newest Bluetooth speaker might probably suit your way of life. Also, one will get all the needed features even in a less expensive range models. Check this out on the net or perhaps at your regional market and you will easily get a affordable Bluetooth speaker that match your style. For your own conveniences, most current Bluetooth speakers that are cheap in price do give fantastic benefits
My Checklist of Very affordable Bluetooth Sound speaker
You can have a look at the below listed wireless Bluetooth speakers less than 100 us dollar.
Well-built Photive Hydra Liquid Resistant Bluetooth Speaker
One favored Bluetooth speaker within this classification is truly the Photive Hydra Speaker which is truly developed tough and watertight. This particular Bluetooth speaker is usually low-priced, however it comes installed with almost all the latest modern technology to satisfy your desires. Many people like the Photive Hydra speaker since it plays loud audio and since it is crafted water-resistant, it is even more long lasting and more favorable for outdoor area usage.You should go to the following website to get more information about portable speakers: Check this site It is ranked IPX6 which suggests that it is safe to use in damp locations. The IP rating of this audio speaker is IPX6 and so you do not have to fret regarding rainfall or snowfall. Due to the fact that the speaker has an IP rating of 6, you can certainly take it at open-air conditions or even at damp locations. The speaker is moreover exceptional in audio tracks sound output with a pair of 40 mm driver speakers and a subwoofer. This particular speaker is able to play a loud as well as sharp music with impressive bass for it has 2 40mm high frequency speaker within along with a inbuilt sub woofer. Relating to the stereo sound end result of this particular speaker, it is powered by two high frequency speakers and subwoofer which result in clear and also deep bass. It runs with advanced 4.0 Bluetooth technology and thus delivers exceptional sound and lesser electric intake. If fully recharged, this audio speaker will give you music for around 8 hours. The dynamic battery life of this audio speaker is a booster since you may enjoy music and songs the entire day if totally charged. This modern-day device is a model developed for music fans as it is backed up by a strong regular Lithium-Ion battery in order to get unlimited home entertainment. This speaker is the finest choice if ever you want to acquire a inexpensive Bluetooth speaker with good features. When it pertains to cheap Bluetooth speaker model with lots of advantages, the Photive Hydra Water Resistant Speaker is our number 1 selection. This less than $50 speaker model definitely will provide you optimal excitement anywhere you go.
Take Entertainment Out-of-doors with DKnight Wireless Speaker
DKnight light and portable Bluetooth speaker is new inexpensive but premium audio speaker you should look into. You can certainly get this incredibly dependable speaker as cheap as 29 bucks. Other excellent characteristics of this speaker are the inbuilt speaker phone, reliable rechargeable battery, oversight buttons and also SD memory card port. This inexpensive Bluetooth speaker provides many great features like long lasting rechargeable battery, external micro SD memory card space, speaker phone intended for taking phone calls and handy command buttons. You will certainly love this speaker because it is low price nevertheless delivers you outstanding music as well as lots of modern features. The Bluetooth techniques will help you attach with any type of Bluetooth speaker equipped gadgets at a range of 30 feet. Connect the speaker with any Bluetooth running devices wirelessly and play your favourite song selections any moment. The moment your smartphone is paired with the speaker and in case you get call, you could instantly take the calls from the speaker. You can furthermore play popular music without making use of Bluetooth systems by using the 3.5 millimeter audio cord or simply insert a sd card inside and enjoy music file. Now you could have more entertainment and unlimited music using this unbelievably low cost sound speaker.
Buy the Omaker M4 Wireless Speaker with Enhanced Bluetooth Technology
If you desire a much smaller size audio speaker which is low-cost, yet is phenomenal in sound quality, the Omaker M4 version should be the perfect selection. This speaker has a measurement of 1.8 x 3.2 x 3.2 inches and weighs only 8.2 ounces. It is pretty compact that you can carry it where you go. This model might be tiny in size, however the sound that it produces is loud enough hence helpful for every where entertainment. You may slip it on your purse and carry it with you anytime you take a trip, go hiking, and so on. Enjoy your music compilation inside your bed room, while taking a shower, or even whenever you go outside. This small speaker has a satisfying IP54 score and so a little rain or a splash of water can not wreck it. I ordered this particular speaker particularly to use as a shower speaker and a sprinkle of water do not influence it. And to my surprise, this low-cost speaker also promotes NFC connectivity, which is ideal for speedy connection. A completely charge battery will likely give you endless music throughout the day.
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