Home 2017 October

Miccus Home RTX 2.0 Long Range Wireless Audio Transmitter or Receiver review

Back in May, I reviewed the Miccus Home TX Pro long-range wireless audio transmitter which allows you to transmit a Bluetooth signal up to 160ft. Pairing it with their SR-71 Stealth low latency headphones made it perfect for my late night TV viewing. Fast forward five months and Miccus has a new product, the Home RTX 2.0 Long Range Wireless Audio Transmitter or Receiver. The RTX 2.0 is similar to the TX Pro but as the name implies it also acts as a Bluetooth receiver. I had the chance to review a unit for the Gadgeteer.

In the box

  • Miccus Home RTX 2.0
  • Dipole Antenna
  • Optical / TOSHLINK digital audio cable
  • 3.5mm male to 3.5mm male audio cable
  • Micro USB charging cable
  • USB power supply
  • Users Manual

Specifications

  • Bluetooth v4.2 (compatible with Bluetooth v2.0 or higher), Profiles – A2DP, AVRCP
  • Audio codecs: SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX-LL, (NOTE aptX-LL use requires both devices in a pairing to support the aptX-Low Latency codec).
  • 3.5mm Stereo Audio Input and Output, TOSLINK Digital Optical Input and Output.
  • Operating range: up to 160ft (50M), Operating Frequency: 2.4 GHz.
  • Optical Support: Sample Rate <=48KHz, Formats PCM / LPCM, Dolby Digital 2.0 (Format changes are accessed thru your TV’s audio settings menu)

What is it?

The Miccus Home RTX 2.0 is the first dual-link, long-range wireless transmitter or receiver featuring Bluetooth v4.2 and two simultaneous aptX Low Latency audio streams. Basically, the Home RTX Pro 2.0 acts as a hub for all your wireless home audio. With the 2-in-1 flexibility of a Transmitter or Receiver, the Home RTX 2.0 makes it easy to add multiple long-range Bluetooth audio links to your home setup. It has two different modes, Transmit (TX), and Receive Mode (RX) and features Dual-Link Pairing and Optical Audio Pass-Through.

Transmit Mode (TX)

With the Home RTX 2.0 powered off, select TX mode by pressing and latching the RX/TX switch (located on the back left of the Home RTX 2.0) to the in position. TX mode requires a wired audio source connection, to either the 3.5mm audio input or the TOSLINK/optical audio input. You can use an audio input source like a computer, tablet, smartphone, television or stereo system. For my purposes, I connected the RTX 2.0 to my TV using the TOSHLINK digital optical cable. I chose to power the unit using the provided Micro USB charging cable and one of my TV’s vacant USB ports. When connected via USB the Home RTX 2.0 will automatically power on. If powered off you can power it back on by holding the multi-function/power button for 5 seconds until the LED indicators power on.

Connecting the Home RTX 2.0 to my TV allows me to use it as a wireless audio hub for my living room. Using Transmit Mode (TX) I can listen to video audio sound or music from my TV and connected 4K Apple TV through my Bluetooth headphones; great for my late night TV viewing or listening to music from my iTunes library. With the RTX 2.0’s long-range transmitter connection is never a problem. The manual states that the operating range of the Home RTX 2.0 is up to 160ft. In my testing, I was able to walk 215ft outside my house before I started losing the Bluetooth signal and had great connection throughout my entire house.

I also connected my Amazon Echo Dot to the Home RTX 2.0 and with the unit in RX mode I was able to use the Dot to play music and news through my TV’s soundbar. With the unit in TX mode, I was able to use my Dot as a Bluetooth speaker and stream audio from my TV and connected devices to whatever room the Dot was in.

Note: If television or video audio is your primary use, then I would recommend using Bluetooth headphones/speakers that support the aptX Low Latency codec. I use a pair of Miccus SR-71 Stealth low latency headphones I reviewed earlier and they work great for watching movies, shows, and sports without any lip sync issues.

Receive Mode (RX)

With the Home RTX 2.0 powered off, Select RX mode by depressing and unlatching the RX/TX switch to the out position. RX mode is designed for use with an audio device such as a stereo system or powered stereo speakers connected to either the 3.5mm audio output or the TOSLINK optical audio output on the Home RTX 2.0. In RX mode the Home RTX 2.0 can be used with any device capable of transmitting a Bluetooth wireless audio signal. Including phones, tablets, laptops, and PCs. I used RX mode to play music from my iPhone through my TV’s sound bar and it worked flawlessly. There’s even a friendly voice prompt that tells you when the unit is powered on, when it’s in pairing mode, when it’s connected/disconnected to or from a device, and when it’s powered off.

In RX mode two smartphones or tablets can be simultaneously paired with the Home RTX 2.0. Both devices can also simultaneously stream music to the Home RTX 2.0. To hear audio from only one of the two devices, pause the audio, or use muting or adjust volume. To test this feature I paired both my iPhone and iPad Pro to the unit. I was able to stream audio from both devices to my sound bar and it worked surprisingly well. I’m not sure that I would use this feature very often, but it could come in handy if I ever wanted to try my hand at DeeJaying a party or family get together.

Dual-Link Pairing

Dual-link pairing allows for two Bluetooth receiving or transmitting devices to pair with the Miccus Home RTX 2.0 simultaneously. Pair with two Bluetooth speakers, headphones or 2 phones at the same time. Pairing is quick and easy. To Engage pairing mode on the Home RTX 2.0,  press and hold the multifunction/power button for 3 seconds until the CH light begins fast flashing. I won’t bore you with the rest of the details here, however, if you want to learn more I provided a link to the Users Manual.

The Home RTX 2.0 also has an automatic re-connect feature. If left powered on, or if powered back on it will automatically reconnect to the last paired device when within range.

Optical Audio Pass-Through

Most televisions and stereo systems feature only one optical audio output. The Home RTX 2.0 allows you to receive an optical audio feed from a television or stereo system and transmit and stream that audio feed to two pairs of headphones or Bluetooth speakers simultaneously. The Home RTX 2.0 can then pass that same audio onto a soundbar. You can also use it to link to two or more Home RTX 2.0’s together to double, or triple the amount of low latency audio streams available for use. This is my favorite feature of the Home RTX 2.0. Digital-pass through allows me to listen to my TV through either the soundbar or my Bluetooth headphones without having to switch cables or use an optical audio splitter. It even allows for one person to use headphones while the other listens to audio through the soundbar.

Conclusion

I’m not surprised that I like the Miccus Home RTX 2.0. I use the Home TX Pro that I reviewed earlier on an almost nightly basis. With the added feature of being both a long-range transmitter and receiver along with Optical Audio Pass through this device is a nice upgrade. And with its small size and discreet black case, it blends in nicely on my TV stand.

Whether you want to Transmit or Receive wireless audio throughout your home or to the patio, pool or backyard the Miccus Home RTX 2.0, which is priced at $59.99,  is the perfect compliment to any home AV system. Miccus also offers a 2-year No-Hassle Replacement Warranty.

Source: The sample for this review was provided by Miccus. Please visit their site for more info and Amazon to purchase.

 

Product Information

Price: $59.99
Manufacturer: Miccus
Retailer: Amazon
Pros:
  • Acts as both receiver and transmitter
  • Long range up to 160ft
  • Easy to set up and use
  • Dual-link pairing
Cons:
  • None

Filed in categories: Reviews

Tagged: ,

Miccus Home RTX 2.0 Long Range Wireless Audio Transmitter or Receiver review originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on October 30, 2017 at 10:07 am.

Note: If you are subscribed to this feed through FeedBurner, please switch to our native feed URL http://the-gadgeteer.com/feed/ in order to ensure continuous delivery.

Felix Gray eyeglasses promise to fix all the bad things screens do to your eyes

OK, that title may be a bit over the top. But if you’re like the typical Gadgeteer, you spend much of your work and leisure in front of some sort of screen, whether it’s coding, IT support, financials, or just a hot & heavy FPS. Even the classic “Netflix & chill” brings with it staring into the bright eyes of the evil LCD, unless you’re using your TV. There have been studies galore condemning this modern pariah, but Felix Gray, an eyeglass manufacturer, promises relief. Their glasses are designed to protect your eyes from the 400-440 nm range of blue light, which (according to their website) is the most dangerous. Increased exposure to blue light in this range results in poorer sleep, blurred vision, dry eye, headaches and eye fatigue.

Felix Gray does not offer prescription lenses as yet, but they do offer a slight magnification for reading assistance and there are several styles to choose from with prices starting around $95.

Filed in categories: News

Tagged: ,

Felix Gray eyeglasses promise to fix all the bad things screens do to your eyes originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on October 30, 2017 at 9:00 am.

Note: If you are subscribed to this feed through FeedBurner, please switch to our native feed URL http://the-gadgeteer.com/feed/ in order to ensure continuous delivery.

Braven (finally) makes a headphone

Ever since I began reviewing Braven’s Bluetooth speakers, I’ve always told my friends that because Braven knows Bluetooth so well, they should make a headphone. Well, now they have—the Braven Signature Wireless Headphone.

Braven’s slogan is “Music On, World Off.” Engineered with active noise canceling technology, their Signature Headphones deliver 32 hours of audio. An adjustable, padded leather headband is finished with integrated aluminum cooling technology to push out heat accumulated during use for a cooler listening experience. Free from background noise and free from wires, the Signature Wireless Headphones feature a fully functional speakerphone with smart ear pad swipe controls to handle phone calls, adjust volume or skip tracks forward and backward. They fold flat into a ballistic nylon carry case to take wherever you want to go.

The Braven Signature Wireless Headphone is available from Braven for $199.99 US. Visit www.braven.com for more information.

Filed in categories: News

Tagged:

Braven (finally) makes a headphone originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on October 30, 2017 at 8:00 am.

Note: If you are subscribed to this feed through FeedBurner, please switch to our native feed URL http://the-gadgeteer.com/feed/ in order to ensure continuous delivery.

Sarvi smartphone dock, MAGNO INK pen, GoSun Go solar stove, and more – Notable crowdfunding campaigns

This week I’m bringing you five crowdfunding campaigns that include four products introduced on Kickstarter and one project that is running on Indiegogo. Click through to read more details about these five crowdfunded products.

Sarvi Dock. Designed for Apple and Android devices.

blurb by Andy Jacobs

What is it?
A simple, sleek, minimalist design dock for smartphones and tables with tons of versatility and adaptability.

Why do I like them?
The main reason (among several) that I like it: Sarvi Dock claims to be compatible with “every possible combination of smartphones/tablets with protective cases and docks available.” Every? Well, it claims to fit the likes of Lifeproof, Otterbox, Catalyst, Apple, Spigen, Mophie, and many more. Its elegant “S”-shaped back with soft-touch coating provides solid support for your phone and its design allows unobstructed use of your phone’s speakers as well as audio jack while docked. Its Cable Connect System includes three easily-to-swap connector adapters that cover the vast majority of phones and tablets: Apple Lightning, Micro USB a, d USB C. It’s compatible with wireless charging pads, has a landscape mode and can act as a USB thumb drive reader as well. Finally, it comes with Sarvi Valet, a small stand that holds the unused Cable Connect adapters and the Landscape Kit. Is there a downside to the Sarvi Dock? I haven’t found one yet. I’m excited about this one.

Where can I find more info?
The Kickstarter campaign is in full swing and will end December 1, so there is still time to become a backer. As of this writing, the campaign still has 32 days to go and already achieved over $19,000 of its $20,000 pledging goal. Pledge package pricing starts at $28 for a single early bird Sarvi Dock and increases from there. Estimated delivery is March 2018. Visit their Kickstarter page for all the details.

Bento Stack for Apple Accessories

What is it?
The Bento Stack is a stackable storage system for cables, chargers, USB flash drives, adapters, wireless headphones, Apple Pencil, Apple Watch bands and other gear that you want to keep organized.

Why do I like them?
I like the Bento Stack because it helps keep all your “stuff” neat and tidy instead of a mess at the bottom of your gear bag. I have used small zippered pouches to keep my gear organized, but the Bento Stack looks like a nice alternative to pouches because you can arrange the storage compartments on your desk when you’re using the gear allowing you to see all the items. Pouches aren’t quite that useful.

Where can I find more info?
The Bento Stack campaign ends in 19 days and they have already passed their funding goal of $25,000. You can pre-order a Bento Stack starting at $38. After the Bento Stack campaign ends, rewards are estimated to start shipping in December 2017. Visit their Indiegogo page for all the details.

MAGNO INK: The World’s Most Intelligent Magnetically Energised Pen.

What is it?
MAGNO INK is an ink pen made of aluminum that uses Neodymium magnets to retract and extend the writing tip.

Why do I like them?
Because magnets! The MAGNO INK pen looks like a nice EDC pen that can accept popular D1 style refills. The magnetic mechanism means you don’t have to worry about losing the cap. It has been designed so it won’t roll off your desk and it also looks like a fun fidget toy.

Where can I find more info?
The MAGNO INK campaign ends in 46 days and they have already met their funding goal of $7,877. You can pre-order a MAGNO INK starting at $40. After the MAGNO INK campaign ends, rewards are estimated to start shipping in March 2018. Visit their Kickstarter page for all the details.

Universal 3.0 Credit Card EDC Multi Tool 60+ Tools in One.

What is it?
The Universal 3.0 is a multi-tool that has over 60 tools but is compact enough to store in your wallet or pocket.

Why do I like them?
I like the Universal 3.0 because it offers a wide variety of tools from wrenches and screwdrivers which are common for multi-tools, to the not so common axe, protractor, sundial clock and compass, and much more.

Where can I find more info?
The Universal 3.0 campaign ends in 15 days and they have already met their funding goal of $5,000. You can pre-order a Universal 3.0 starting at $23. After the Universal 3.0 campaign ends, rewards are estimated to start shipping in February 2018. Visit their Kickstarter page for all the details.

GoSun Go: Boil Water and Cook Meals with Solar Power

What is it?
The GoSun Go is a portable stove that uses the power of the sun to cook your food and boil/sterilize water.

Why do I like them?
I’ve talked about GoSun products before, but this new product is smaller and much easier to take with you on your adventures. The GoSun Go gives you the ability to cool food using no fuel (wood) or batteries. All you need is the sun even if it’s cloudy and cold.

Where can I find more info?
The GoSun Go campaign ends in 23 days and has already reached their funding goal of $10,000. You can pre-order a GoSun Go starting at $99. After the GoSun Go campaign ends, rewards are estimated to start shipping in April 2018. Visit their Kickstarter page for all the details.

Filed in categories: News

Tagged:

Sarvi smartphone dock, MAGNO INK pen, GoSun Go solar stove, and more – Notable crowdfunding campaigns originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on October 29, 2017 at 4:04 pm.

Note: If you are subscribed to this feed through FeedBurner, please switch to our native feed URL http://the-gadgeteer.com/feed/ in order to ensure continuous delivery.

Snag a copy of “How to Build an Effective and Affordable Smart Home from the Ground Up” (Free eBook)

How to Build an Effective and Affordable Smart Home from the Ground Up written by Joel Lee is an electronic guide that will teach you what you need to know about smart home technology, including what it is, how it works, and which devices to purchase or avoid.

If you haven’t already signed up previously with TradePub, there are a couple hoops to jump through before you can download this ebook. But your small effort helps The Gadgeteer to earn some affiliate fees that enables us to bring you more cool product reviews, giveaways, and more, so your effort will be greatly appreciated.

Filed in categories: News

Tagged:

Snag a copy of “How to Build an Effective and Affordable Smart Home from the Ground Up” (Free eBook) originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on October 29, 2017 at 2:34 pm.

Note: If you are subscribed to this feed through FeedBurner, please switch to our native feed URL http://the-gadgeteer.com/feed/ in order to ensure continuous delivery.