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Feel free to connect with Freestream


Fashion shows are one of the events that I love to video, and on a few occasions, I have been a part of a team the included a live broadcast as a part of the event. The hustle and bustle of celebrity types lends a sense of excitement and adds energy to the environment. However, setting up multiple video cameras for these events can be a pain when broadcasting, because of the cables that need to be run from each camera back to the broadcast hub. This issue is even more complicated when we are forced to run cables across areas where models will be walking, since tripping is an inherent risk even when the cables are taped to the floor.

I have researched many wireless HDMI transmitter/receiver kits, but they have always been rather expensive, starting in the $1000S for one set.

Recently, I can across Freestream. It is an HDMI transmitter/receiver kit that claims to work with most HDMI enabled cameras. While we use SDI in most of our connections, we have the ability to use HDMI with no issues. Freestream features, an audio input to the transmitter, a removable and rechargeable battery, an LCD screen, 1080P 60 Hz frequency, a range of up to 1500 feet, and 4 channels that supports the use of up to 4 cameras simultaneously.

You can get more information on Freestream and pick one kit up with an included Pelican case for $699 at the Freestream website, or without the case for $599 at B&H Photo Video.

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Feel free to connect with Freestream originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on April 17, 2018 at 8:00 am.

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Creative Pebble desktop speakers review


At my home office, I’m trying to consolidate my speaker set up. I’ve been into trying to become more minimalist, and although I love my Logitech 2.1 speaker system with subwoofer, it’s big, clunky, and not very necessary at the moment. Lately, I’ve just been using headphones on my computer or a Google Home to play music or listen to podcasts. When I had the chance to review the Creative Pebble desktop speaker set, I wanted to see if this would enhance my home office desk life. Let’s take a look!

Note: Images can be clicked to view a larger size.

What is it?

From Creative’s website – “Inspired by the zen Japanese rock garden, the orb-shaped Creative Pebble is a sleek and elegant 2.0 speaker system that looks perfect in any home and office.”

Hardware specs

Dimensions (H x W x D):  4.5 x 4.4 x 4.6 inches
Drivers: 2″ Full Range Speaker Driver
Frequency Response: 100Hz ~ 17kHz
System Configuration: 2.0 system
Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR): 86dB
Connector Type: Line-In, AUX-in, 3.5mm Analog Stereo Connector

What’s in the box?

  • 2 x speaker “satellites”
  • 1 Warranty and Technical Support Booklet

Design and features

Along with decent sound, the Creative Pebble speakers are small, sleek and look great on my desk. They are as tall as a 12 oz soda can and reach far enough on either side that I can listen to my audio in decent stereo quality.  They feature a 45° elevated angle for audio projection and are powered by a single USB cable, which is great for cable management. I connected them to my Mac Mini via the 3.5mm stereo output.

There’s a grippy surface on the bottom of each speaker so that they don’t slide around. This is a small detail that I appreciate. The speakers are round and pretty lightweight, so I wouldn’t want them to roll around or fall off my desk.

What I like

  • The sound is very good – much better than the built-in sound of my Mac Mini or laptop.
  • They look really nice and go well with my white desk.

What needs to be improved

Although the sound is better than a speaker, I do miss a bit more “bass” when listening to audio, especially music.

Final thoughts

I really like having the small Creative Pebble speakers on my desk to replace my bigger speaker system. It allows for me to get rid of unnecessary clutter on my desk while giving me better audio than the alternative of my Mac or laptop. There is a lack of deep bass, which is expected for a small speaker like this. If you’re looking for something bass heavy I’d recommend sticking to using another speaker for listening to music!

Price: $24.99
Where to buy: Creative.com
Source: The sample for this review was provided by Creative.

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Creative Pebble desktop speakers review originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on April 16, 2018 at 4:21 pm.

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Send your fresh fruits and veggies to VeggiDome!

I don’t know how often I get some fresh scallions or broccoli, stick them in the fridge under all the other produce I have in there, and find them again after they are limp and inedible.  With the VeggiDome, I could store them on display in the kitchen, so I don’t forget them, in a container that will keep them fresher longer.

The VeggiDome glass tabletop produce saver is made of hand-blown borosilicate glass and has a stainless-steel colander base.  Your produce will stay as fresh and crisp as they would in the fridge.  The dome shape keeps moisture in, and the lid allows the natural ethylene gas responsible for produce ripening too quickly to escape.

Produce should be washed before putting them in the VeggiDome, and the colander base will keep them from sitting in water as they dry.  You can keep produce fresh and visible in the dome for up to six days.  However, there are instructions about what types of produce should go in the dome (see more at The Grommet).  The VeggiDome should be hand washed.  It measures 12″ x 9″ x 7.5″, so it’s big enough to hold a few days worth of produce.

The VeggiDome is $59.95 at The Grommet.

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Send your fresh fruits and veggies to VeggiDome! originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on April 16, 2018 at 12:00 pm.

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Edge Desk System kneeling desk review


I don’t have room in my home for a full-size desk so when I’m writing for the Gadgeteer I usually end up working at my kitchen table, or in my recliner. Neither one is optimal. After about an hour or so my back, neck, and legs need a break. Then I was offered the chance to review The Edge Desk system. Becuase of its portability, it sounded like it would be a perfect solution to my problem. With my back issues, I was a little skeptical about using a kneeling desk, but I decided to give it a try. Man, I’m glad I did!

What is it?

The Edge Desk is a portable, adjustable, ergonomic all-in-one kneeling desk system. It adjusts in five different ways and can go from desktop to easel. And when you’re done it quickly folds down and can be put away until you need it again.

Specs

  • Dimensions: 40″ x 30″ x 26-31″
  • Weight: 28-lbs
  • Maximum desktop load: 15-lbs
  • Maximum seat load: 300-lbs

In the box

  • 1- Fully assembled edge desk
  • Setup instructions

Design and features

The Edge Desk’s all-in-one design is insanely cool. It’s as unique as any desk system I’ve ever seen. The aluminum-bodied frame is very sturdy and strong, yet lightweight. And the plastic desktop provides a spacious work area.

Quick setup

Setting up the desk is quick and easy. It comes fully assembled with nicely illustrated setup instructions. I will admit first time set up was a little slow. However, after a couple of uses, I was able to set it up and break it down in around 30 seconds.

Fully adjustable

One of the great features of the Edge Desk is how fully adjustable it is. Multiple adjustments for tilt, angle, and height make it extremely versatile. There are four separate height adjustments for the seat alone. I used a permanent red marker to mark the holes once I found the settings I liked. Which made setup quicker and easier.

A pull-out handle located on the underside of the desk allows it to go from desktop to easel in seconds.

Portability

The Edge Desk is the ultimate in portability. When folded down the desk is just 61/2” high, which allows me to easily slide it under my bed when I’m not using it. It’s so compact that you can stand it up against a wall or in a closet.

Its portable size and built-in carrying handle make it easy to take virtually anywhere, inside or out.

Let’s see you do that with a typical desk.

Use and comfort

Like I stated earlier I was skeptical about how comfortable a kneeling desk could be. Needless to say, I was amazed at how comfortable the Edge Desk is. I’ve been using it for a few weeks now for writing and drawing. I love it! I’m able to use the desk for long periods of time without back or neck pain. I also found that the desk forces me to use better posture. It all adds up to me being more productive and that’s a definite plus.

Accessories

Along with the Edge Desk, I also received three different accessories (sold separately). A water bottle holder, phone/tablet holder and a set of transport wheels. I found them all to be extremely useful. Both the water bottle holder and phone holder allow you to keep the desktop clutter-free. They both use the proprietary “Edge” universal clip to hold them securely to the edge of the desk.

And the water bottle holder doubles as a pencil holder when I’m sketching, allowing me to organize my pencils and keep them off the desktop.

The transport wheels slide onto the front feet of the desk and secure with a snap of a locking collar. The wheels definitely make it easier to slide the desk under my bed and to maneuver it when it’s setup. And because the desk weighs 28lbs they could come in handy if you’re moving it any distance.

Just wheel it along like you would a piece of luggage.

What I like

  • Easy to setup and breakdown
  • Portability – you can use it virtually anywhere
  • Easily stores away when not in use
  • Fully adjustable
  • Can be used as both desktop and easel
  • Comfortable for long periods of time

What needs to be improved

  • Would be nice if there was a raised lip on the desktop to keep things from rolling off when using it as an easel.

Final thoughts

I’m in love with the Edge Desk. It’s the desk solution I’ve been waiting for. Its portability and storability solved my problem of not having enough room for a full-size desk. I’m more productive and it really helps reduce the stress on my neck and back. And now I have a space that I can dedicate to my artwork.

The Edge Desk might just bring standing desks to their knees.

Thank you Edge Desk and Bravo!

Price: Edge Desk – $ 399.99,  water bottle holder – $24.99, phone holder – $24.99, transport wheels – $29.99
Where to buy: Amazon
Source: The sample for this review was provided by Edge Desk System.

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Edge Desk System kneeling desk review originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on April 16, 2018 at 11:00 am.

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Nuheara boosts its IQBuds truly wireless earbuds to a personal level

When I reviewed the Nuheara IQbuds earbuds, I said that they sound better than many wireless ear buds and can help make speech more intelligible. While that’s still true, Nuheara has gone a step further and introduced IQbuds Boost adding what Nuheara calls “Ear ID,” a self-fit system with smartphone app that will clinically validate audiometric hearing and calibrate the IQbuds Boost specifically to your hearing. What is that, you ask? It simply means that since every ear is different and everyone hears differently, Ear ID will create a unique hearing profile by evaluating how you hear. 

“It will provide a deeper, more sophisticated level of personalization, customization, and amplification,” states Nuheara.

As with the original IQBuds, the Boost version will enhance conversations—whether in intimate or noisy places, and allow you to listen to TV with more clarity at lower volumes. When outdoors or in a noisy environment, you can adjust the amount of the outside world you want to let into your digital audio listening. It’s quite an amazing experience when you first try it.

IQbuds Boost features include:

Low latency streaming for TV
Speech amplification
Dynamic noise control
Blended audio worlds
Superior sound for calls & music
Long battery life with fast charging
20 hours Bluetooth streaming
40 hours hearing processing
Water resistant/sweat proof
Tap touch control
iOS & Android compatible

The IQbuds Boost will be available in late April with the pre-order price of $449 US. After that, retail will be $499. Visit www.nuheara.com for information.

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Nuheara boosts its IQBuds truly wireless earbuds to a personal level originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on April 16, 2018 at 10:00 am.

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