Monday, August 31, 2009

Zoom H2 Handy Digital Recorder

The Pitch:

It's a simple idea: provide brilliant stereo recording in an easy-to-use, ultra-portable device. Now everyone can record pristine audio in an infinite variety of applications. From seminars and conferences, to electronic news gathering (ENG) and podcasting, to musical performances, songwriting sessions and rehearsals, the H2 provides amazing recording quality. And no matter what kind of music you perform or the instrument you play, the H2 can effortlessly record it in high-quality stereo.

Why Four Mics are Better Than Two

The H2 is the only portable recorder with 4 mic capsules on-board for 360° recording. With 4 mic capsules in a W-X/Y configuration, the audio is decoded instantly, bringing these four signals together for unparalleled stereo imaging.

But the H2 doesn't stop there. For maximum flexibility, you can record from the front of the H2 in a 90° pickup pattern or the rear of the H2 in a 120° pickup pattern at up to 96 kHz/24-bit resolution as a WAV file, or as an MP3 file at bitrates up to 320 kbps. Additionally, you can record in a 360° pickup pattern at up to 48kHz/24-bit resolution which will allow you to convert your recordings to 5.1 Surround.

Push a Button...

That's all it takes to start recording! The H2 is a remarkably robust device that is incredibly easy to use. One button recording, gain controls on the side and an intuitive user interface mean you can always capture the moment. Set your levels, push record and go. It's that simple. Or use the Auto Start and Auto Gain Control functions to ensure complete capture at the right level. And if you need to fine-tune your levels on the fly, we made it easy with gain control buttons on the front panel.

Play it Back!

Play your recordings on your home audio system with its 1/8" stereo output or listen to your masterpiece with headphones. Or, use the H2's USB interface to move your recordings to your Mac or PC to listen, edit and share.

The H2 records on Secure Digital (SD) media and a 512MB SD card is included. The unit can accommodate up to a 16GB SD card, allowing up to 24 hours of total recording time using the 16-bit/44.1kHz WAV format. At 128kbps MP3, you get an amazing 280 hours of stereo recording. Store your recordings on a PC or Mac with its USB 2.0 interface. And you can use its time stamping function for reference during production. Or use the H2 as a USB Mic for recording directly to a computer.

What's Life Without Accessories?

 The H2 comes with earbuds, 1/8 inch stereo to RCA cable, mic clip adapter, tripod stand, USB cable, AC adapter and a 512MB SD card.

Ultimate Convenience

 The H2 weighs 4 ounces and fits in your pocket for the ultimate in portability and convenience. Two standard alkaline AA batteries will give you 4 hours of continuous operation and a backlit display means it's always easy to use in any situation.

Enjoy Your Brilliance

 Brilliant stereo recording in a convenient, user-friendly package means there's never been an easier way to record high quality audio. The H2 gives everyone the power to record anything and share it with anyone, anywhere. You'll be amazed by your sound.

Features:
  • W-XY mic patterns with 4 mic capsules and signal processing allows Front 90° cardioid, Rear 120° cardioid and 360° polar patterns
  • Built-in USB 2.0 interface
  • Records in WAV 96kHz/48kHz/44.1kHz at 16-bit or 24-bit, MP3 to 320kbps and Variable Bit Rate (VBR) data formats
  • Time Stamp and Track Marker functions in Broadcast WAV Format (BWF)
  • 512MB SD memory card included
  • Accommodates up to 16GB SD memory cards
  • Auto Gain Control (AGC) for pristine recordings
  • Auto Start function means you're always ready to record
  • Low-cut filter eliminates wind noise
  • On-board chromatic Guitar/Bass tuner

 H2 Handy Recorder Features at a Glance

The H2 Handy Recorder brings the ultimate in functionality and versatility to portable digital recording. A clear, backlit display features recording levels, time code, file name and remaining battery life. LEDs indicate Front, Rear, 2 Channel or 4 Channel modes and the recording angle: 90°, 120° or 360°. An Active Mic LED is on the front and back of the H2. Transport controls include one button recording, playback and pause, fast forward and rewind. Use the Menu key to enter the control menu and the cursor keys to navigate through the feature sets.

Within the menu, set recording parameters such as direction and polar pattern, activate the Auto Start function and set file format. And you'll find additional settings like Auto Gain Control to make sure your recordings are always pristine. And you can fine-tune your levels on the fly with the Record Level buttons on the front.

On the left side of the H2 is a 1/8" Phone/Line Output for monitoring and playback. Playback Volume, Power On and the AC power are located here as well.

On the right side of the H2, you can plug in a powered 1/8" external stereo mic. Setting levels is easy with a Mic Gain slider for Low/Medium/High gain. You can also digitize analog recordings with the 1/8" Line In.

Use the USB 2.0 Interface to move your files to a PC or Mac for storage, editing and playback. The time stamp function is great for reference during production. And you can even use the H2 as a USB mic and record directly to your favorite digital audio software.

For brilliant stereo recording, and plenty of extras, there's never been a simpler or more functional solution than the H2 Handy Recorder from Zoom.

Please note: The Zoom H2 will not mount as a USB Drive on MAC OS X 10.5.0 Leopard unless you update to H2 Firmware version 1.2 or higher.

Product Description

It's a simple idea: provide brilliant stereo recording in an easy-to-use, ultra-portable device. The H2 is the only portable recorder with 3 mic capsules onboard for mid-side recording. A directional mic is in the center (mid) and two directional mics (side) are positioned left and right. The audio is decoded instantly, bringing these three signals together for unparalleled stereo imaging. One button recording, gain controls on the side and an intuitive user interface mean you can always capture the moment. Set your levels, push record and go. The H2 records on Secure Digital (SD) media and a 512MB SD card is included. With a 4GB SD memory card, the H2 provides up to 2 hours recording at 96kHz, 6 hours at 44.1kHz, or up to a staggering 138 hours in MP3. Play your recordings on your home audio system with its 1/8" stereo output or listen to your masterpiece with headphones. Or, use the H2's USB interface to move your recordings to your Mac or PC to listen, edit and share. 512MB SD memory card included; Accommodates up to 4GB SD optional memory cards Auto Gain Control (AGC) for pristine recordings Auto Start function means you're always ready to record Low-cut filter eliminates wind noise On-board chromatic Guitar/Bass tuner Two standard alkaline AA batteries will give you 4 hours of continuous operation and a backlit display means it's always easy to use in any situation Pocketable - Weighs only 4 ounces.

The Skinny:
Recently, I got together with friends and recorded the same live acoustic music on both the Edirol R-09 and the Zoom H2. I used Adobe Audition only to normalize both tracks (that is, equalize their loudness). The first time we played them back, I thought I detected a VERY slight preference for the Edirol, with the overall opinion of the group split between the two units. The second time we played them back, my preference was for the H2, with overall opinion continuing to be split. We all agreed that the differences were so small as to be negligible if there were any at all. We were sitting in a circle with the recorders located next to each other on a mantle above and outside the group.
I took a chance on the Zoom H2 and am not sorry. All the head aches of the H4 have been addressed with the H2. This machine is much easier to use. I'm using it to record live string music and it does a wonderful job. Sounds great! I'm not an egg head geek or a computer expert nor am I a professional sound recording engineer, and I am very comfortable using this machine.


The Deal:

It is best to compare prices when you can. We will not post prices as retails tend to change. However at the time of this post, your best bet is one of the following:

Buy the Zoom H2 from SavvyTronics.com
Buy the Zoom H2 from Amazon.com


_______________________________________________________
Please visit our sponsor: SavvyTronics.com
Specializing in hard-to-find computer and electronic accessores. Find them at http://SavvyTronics.com
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Friday, August 28, 2009

USB Gender Changer, A Female To Female

The Pitch:

The Gender Changer USB A Female to USB A Female converts a USB A Male connector to a USB A Female connector and helps maintain the tradition of offering top-notch parts and products for the best price possible.

Too many USB plugs and not enough ports? Use this gender changer to connect two male type A USB cords, or to convert a standard dual male cable into a USB extension cord.
  • Connects two male type "A" USB cords
  • Also converts a standard dual male cable into a USB extension cord
Brand: Ziotek
Model: ZT1310934
Number of Connectors: 2
Connector Details: 1 x Type A Female USB
Reference Numbers:  ZT1310934, 1310934, 131 0934, 003EI131 0934, B000BSN4UY


The Skinny:

Not a lot to review here, the connector works as promised and is as durable as any other connector/adapter I already own.   I looked high and low for this item locally and couldn't find it. Found it at SavvyTronics.com quickly and they got it to me in about a day. Works fine, no problems.


The Deal:

It is best to compare prices when you can. We will not post prices as retails tend to change. However at the time of this post, your best bet is one of the following:

Buy the Ziotek USB A Female to Female Gender Changer at SavvyTronics.com 
Buy the Ziotek USB A Female to Female Gender Changer at Amazon.com


________________________________________________________
Please visit our sponsor: SavvyTronics.com
Specializing in hard-to-find computer and electronic accessores. Find them at http://SavvyTronics.com
________________________________________________________

Thursday, August 27, 2009

Ziotek Media Carousel Plus Special Edition ZT1341450

The Pitch:

The Media Carousel Plus organizes 150 discs and can automatically serve up any in seconds! Use the keypad to retrieve discs or use the USB connection and software to build a searchable database on your computer... one click and a disc is called up!

A built-in single port USB hub in the Media Carousel Plus lets you connect another Carousel or other USB accessory, such as a mouse or scanner, without an additional hub.

  • Requires Windows 98SE/Me/2000/XP/Vista.
  • Stores up to 150 discs
  • Built-in 1-port USB hub
  • Select discs by keypad--fast and easy
  • Works with all 12cm discs up to 1.4mm thick
  • Compatible with the original Media Carousel Enclosed carousel provides increased privacy and security for your discs
  • Larger easy to read digital readout with keypad selection
  • Carousel rotates both directions for ultra-fast disc delivery
  • With multiple USB hubs (sold separately)
  • Up to 127 units can be connected to one PC

Brand: Ziotek
Model: ZT1341450
Specifications Measurements:15"L x 15"W x 8"H
Reference Numbers:  ZT1341450, 134 1450, 003EI134 1450, B000G7WZQY, DC-300


The Skinny:

I researched media carousels for about a month because I wasn't sure if I wanted to drop this much money on something that does what a shoebox can do. However, I must say I am very pleased and it was worth the money.

After using the ZioTek for a month, I can now offer a comparison to the Disc Stakka.

Portability Winner: ZioTek. They offer Windows AND Macintosh drivers. I found a Linux driver, but it has no catalog so I use my Macintosh. Stakka only has a Windows driver.

Cataloging System Winner:  ZioTek. Their software allows you to group your cd/dvd titles by your created categories. ZioTek also allows you to search on cd/dvd title. Stakka does not allow either of these features. With the Stakka software, can sort your titles alphabetically, but then you must visually scan the list for the title of interest. Both software allow you to enter your cd into your reader and have that information transferred to the cataloging software. ZioTek's software is simply more flexible.

Speed Winner:  ZioTek.  The Ziotek media carousel seems to access a disc almost twice as fast as the Stakka. This is impressive because the ZioTek stores 150 discs while Stakka only stores 100 discs. The ZioTek is almost much quieter when it is searching for the disc. I can barely hear the ZioTek carousel turn, while you definitely know when the Stakka is rotating its carousel.

Appearance Winner: ZioTek looks nicer. I have the special edition black.

Security Winner: ZioTek. The unit comes with a key lock that allows you to lock the access window so that no one can use your discs. It is a nice feature. Of course, it would not take considerable effort to break the window, but for a home or office setting, this risk should be minimized. I imagine that you can say that the Stakka has a built in security system because no one can eject a disc without the host computer.

Standalone Capacity Winner: ZioTek. This unit does not require a computer to operate. An inventory booklet is provided for you to write the names of your discs so that you can enter the disc number to eject it. This feature works even if the unit is connected to the computer. I really like it.

In summary, I highly recommend the ZioTek DC-300. Except for its loading disc loading arm and the lack of a linux driver, it is perfect.
 
The Deal:
 
It is best to compare prices when you can. We will not post prices as retails tend to change. However at the time of this post, your best bet is one of the following:


Buy the Ziotek Media Carousel Plus Special Edition ZT1341450 at SavvyTronics.com
Buy the Ziotek Media Carousel Plus Special Edition ZT1341450 at Amazon.com


________________________________________________________
Please visit our sponsor: SavvyTronics.com
Specializing in hard-to-find computer and electronic accessores. Find them at http://SavvyTronics.com
________________________________________________________

Tuesday, August 25, 2009

KF-1041 CPU Security Lock


 The Pitch:

Keep your computer systems locked and secure with our lock for computer cases. Simply replace one or more of the standard case screws with our case lock to keep unauthorized personnel from tampering with computer systems, removing peripheral cards, etc.
  • Simple, yet effective
  • Replaces a standard case screw
  • Includes one keylock and one key

Model:  KF-1041
Reference Numbers:  KF-1041, 003EI132 0380, 1320380, 132 0380. B000BSHJKA

The Skinny:
Excellent quality.  Excellent for schools, universities or any place where a computer can be victim of a thief of components.  Protects your computer by eliminating the ability for the parts to be stolen or "borrowed."

The Deal:
It is best to compare prices when you can.  We will not post prices as retails tend to change.  However at the time of this post, your best bet is one of the following:
Buy the KF-1041 CPU Security Lock from CharlesSimpson.com
 ________________________________________________________
Please visit our sponsor: SavvyTronics.com
Specializing in hard-to-find computer and electronic accessores. Find them at http://SavvyTronics.com
________________________________________________________

Friday, August 21, 2009

Logitech Webcam Pro 9000

The Pitch:

Get razor-sharp video with ultra-smooth Autofocus and high-precision Carl Zeiss optics. The Logitech Webcam Pro 9000 brings together an entire suite of top-of-the-line features designed to make sure you look and sound your best on camera. The Carl Zeiss lens system with Autofocus keeps you in sharp focus, even if you move around. Extras like Logitech RightLight 2 Technology correct for poor lighting. HD video recording lets you create 16 x 9 widescreen videos at full 720-pixel detail. Your webcam even comes with new Logitech Vid—the fast, free, easy, one-click-to-call video calling software.

You have family and friends miles away. You stay in touch by phone but it doesn't come close to seeing them in person. The Webcam Pro 9000 can help—the webcam that makes high-quality video calls remarkably easy, so you can just focus on being in the conversation. Go ahead. Blow a kiss to the birthday girl. Give two anniversary thumbs up to your favorite couple. Show off that A+ college paper to the folks back home. Logitech makes it simple to share the moment, and experience every emotion, in astonishing real-life clarity and detail.

Video calls have always offered the promise of connection to your distant friends and family. But for many of us, getting the hardware and 3rd party software to work has been a challenge. Isn't it about time for an all-in-one webcam and software solution designed to make video calling easy for everyone? Wait no more. Your Logitech webcam comes with new Logitech Vid, the easiest video-calling application ever. Vid one-click-to-call software works seamlessly, right out of the box, with any new or existing Logitech webcam. So you can just relax and enjoy sharp, clear video conversations without hassles. And it's also free for anyone you call, no matter what webcam they use.

Vid keeps things simple from the start. It's set up when your webcam is. So you're ready to call right away. In fact, you can set up Vid in half the steps it takes with major instant-messaging services. When you make a call, Vid connects you to friends using their email addresses. No screen names, extra accounts to create, or third-party software to download. And Vid works whether you're using a PC or a Mac computer, a stand-alone webcam or a built-in one.

Other free software offers video calling as another hard-to-find feature in a long list of features. Vid presents a simple, intuitive interface where every element is designed to help you make a video call the moment your webcam is ready. Each of your contacts is represented by a thumbnail picture. Simply click the picture of the person you want to contact and Vid starts your video call. Click. Chat. Simple as that.

Vid software is free with your new or existing Logitech webcam. It's also free for everyone you invite to connect with you, regardless of what webcam they have. Want to add a friend to your call list? Simply choose “Add a friend” to send them an email invitation and software link. Once they sign up, you're both set for free one-click calling—no strings attached.
All of this simplicity is powered by the Logitech SightSpeed network, a groundbreaking framework designed specifically for video calling. It's also how Logitech Vid can deliver such crisp, clear video and audio without compromises or complications. See how real video calling can be with the Logitech Webcam Pro 9000 and Vid.

From the moment you make your first video call, you'll see why Logitech is the top choice of webcam users worldwide. Logitech designs every webcam from the ground up to give you dramatically clearer video and sound than other webcams at the same price. It's not just about features like lens quality, sensor resolution and software. It's how the sum of the parts adds up to a better video calling experience for you.

Webcam Pro 9000 is designed from the start to make sure you look your absolute best on camera. Capture your live video conversations in razor-sharp detail with top-of-the-line features, including Carl Zeiss optics, the leading name in high-precision camera lenses.

Ultra-smooth Autofocus - Lean in for an extreme close up, step back for a long shot or get the whole family in a wide shot—your image won't lose focus. The lens automatically adjusts to your every move for smoother video chats without fuzzy images, stutters and distractions.

Advanced optics are just the beginning of sharper, clearer images. Logitech goes a step further with a high-resolution sensor that keeps you looking great, even when you're full screen. In fact, the Webcam Pro 9000 gives you a breathtaking 50% higher video resolution than standard 1.3-megapixel webcams. Video calling never looked more real. The same goes for photos. Capture and email stunning snapshots, up to 8-megapixels, at the touch of a button.

Feel free to show off, sit up, sit back, rock out, make funny faces and talk with your hands. Just do what comes naturally. You won't have to change the webcam's position or angle. Intelligent Face Tracking always keeps your face in the center of the video frame. And with the ultra-wide field of view, your whole family can take center-screen with you.

Say you're making a late-night video call to a caffeinated friend in another hemisphere. The only light on is a desk lamp, leaving your face in the dark. No problem. Logitech RightLight2 Technology instantly detects and corrects poor lighting—even tricky back- and side-lighting that would otherwise hide your face in shadows. It's like having your own lighting technician who instantly adjusts and balances the brightness on you, the foreground and background. Now, looking great on camera is so easy, it's brilliant.

With some webcams, your “voice, voice, voice” echoes back during a video call. Logitech RightSound Technology automatically cancels distracting echoes and background noise. So video calls sound as clear and natural as talking in the same room. Want your video calls to be more private? It's as simple as adding a headset.

Creating high definition videos or birthday video greetings? Put away the camcorder. With the Webcam Pro 9000, you can record eye-popping HD videos right from your computer. And for an even better showstopper, the 16x9 widescreen format captures your image in full 720-pixel detail.

You want a webcam that's the right fit for your computer. Consider it done. The integrated adjustable mounting clip is designed to easily attach to whatever desktop monitor or notebook you own—thin screen, widescreen or anything in between.

Feel like a queen? Be one on your next video call. It's easy, thanks to included Logitech Video Effects software. Personalize your appearance with hundreds of realistic effects, only from Logitech. Transform yourself into animated avatar characters who mirror your movements in real time. Talk and your avatar talks. Smile and your avatar smiles. Also add fun Face Accessories to your live-action image. Quirky glasses. Crazy hats. A royal crown. It's your choice. Or use Fun Filters to turn your image artsy, neon or creepy as a ghost.

All you need for video calling is the webcam, a high-speed Internet connection and software with video calling capability. We recommend Logitech Vid video calling software for fast, easy and free face-to-face connections. You can also download other IM programs online. Unlike some brands, Logitech webcams work with all instant messaging programs—yours and whomever you call, so getting connected is hassle-free.


Product Features:
  • Formerly known as the Logitech QuickCam Pro 9000, but now includes new Logitech Vid software that dramatically simplifies video calling
  • Ultra-smooth AutoFocus with Carl Zeiss lens system for sharper, fluid video
  • HD video recording and 2-megapixel sensor capture detailed 16 x 9 widescreen videos and up to 8-megapixel photos
  • RightLight2 Technology adjusts brightness for perfect images, even in dim light
  • Premium built-in microphone with RightSound Technology for crystal-clear conversations

Technical Details:
  • Brand Name: Logitech
  • Model: 960-000048
  • Item Package Quantity: 1
  • Hardware Platform: PC
  • Audio Input: Built-in microphone
  • Video Capture Resolution: Up to 1600 x 1200 pixels (HD quality) (HD Video 960 x 720 pixels)
  • Image types: JPEG
  • Image Capture Speed: 30 fps
  • Native Resolution: 1600x1200
  • Minimum system requirements: Microsoft Windows Vista / XP
  • Width: 2.5 inches
  • Depth: 7 inches
  • Height: 3.5 inches
  • Weight: 0.6 pounds
  • Warranty: 2 years manufacturer warranty
Where to get it? Click here to get the Logitech Webcam Pro 9000 at SavvyTronics.com!

The Skinny:
 
They have got this one right.. That is for sure ...

I had the previous Logitech Pro 5000 and this one beats that one (which is also good) miles away !!

Having never owned - or even so much as used - a webcam prior to this, I don't have much point of reference. That said, the installation of this product couldn't have been any easier. On my older desktop system, the installation only took a few minutes. The laptop I have is much newer, and the software installed even faster. Absolutely trouble-free, and within minutes I had a picture on screen and was able to take photos and make videos.

Logitech QuickCam Pro 9000 is a great product. Simple to use right out of the box and will give you great picture quality and sound for the money. This product certainly delivers on the value scale.

The Logitech QuickCam Pro 9000 has probably the clearest image for any reasonably priced WebCam. My daughter grabbed it from me as soon as it arrived and when we got it working her friends were astounded at how much better the image from our house was than all the other friends' webcams. The auto-focus does a nice job of keeping the picture in crystal clear focus even as you move around and get close to the camera. We used it to make a couple of short videos and at even larger sizes, they still looked great. We took some still pictures at the highest quality and they were razor sharp. Sound quality was also exceptional. The camera has the ability to automatically adjust to the light in the room and that worked nicely. It lets you turn the feature off in case you don't like the result. The camera has a well designed stand that lets it wrap around flat screen monitors and sit nicely on top of regular monitors.

Where to get it?  Click here to get the Logitech Webcam Pro 9000 at SavvyTronics.com!
________________________________________________________
Please visit our sponsor: SavvyTronics.com
Specializing in hard-to-find computer and electronic accessores. Find them at http://SavvyTronics.com
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Backyard BBQ - 1000 Piece jigsaw puzzle