tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-369943092024-03-07T22:06:02.458+08:00Music.Photo.Life.Reviews of latest tech, gadgets, music, photography, and lifestyle products.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09903396787688350549noreply@blogger.comBlogger915125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36994309.post-16086729942173954602015-05-14T11:59:00.000+08:002015-05-14T11:59:18.935+08:00Introducing Rating Graph for Audio ReviewsI am introducing an audio review rating graph to my audio product reviews so that readers can visualise the perceived quality of the products across the frequency bands.<br />
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Currently, the overall product rating I provided might not reflect the differing audio quality across the frequency bands. Product A may produce great bass, while Product B is better in midrange. So readers would need to read my entire review to get this information.<br />
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I hope this graph will give readers a quick assessment on what to expect from the audio product without reading too much into the article.<br />
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Here is an example on how the graph may be interpreted.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDj-A4jut7GUKm9gftNVJ9VSKZLmWiCNHpoSbT_6duLu-rcfKMgLn1WE1AeLHfgNs4LPxqA6euz4xMndc8hHHqpFkp6sx-kMvjfFUpNYerL_IqDkCBFyqsUKer0mkWq7i9dpk/s1600/Momentum-On-Ear-M2-Rating.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDj-A4jut7GUKm9gftNVJ9VSKZLmWiCNHpoSbT_6duLu-rcfKMgLn1WE1AeLHfgNs4LPxqA6euz4xMndc8hHHqpFkp6sx-kMvjfFUpNYerL_IqDkCBFyqsUKer0mkWq7i9dpk/s400/Momentum-On-Ear-M2-Rating.PNG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Above is my rating for my recent review of the <a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2015/05/sennheiser-momentum-m2-on-ear-headphones-review.html" target="_blank">Sennheiser MOMENTUM On-Ear M2</a> headphones. In a glance, it says I enjoy the bass quality, and the treble area is pretty good too, while midrange seems to be on the weak side.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhRBtuYk23kfxC8tH9Dy2SSAcD5lR0uMlVGe9GFtpTJFhGqOzMFEalUh2Jr7JXueh-56bDEENBeHotI8MyeWoZ6NesDsACfJRZcIUjwxuuangabl9Jt-NedMHR35KevcmdzWE/s1600/Sennheiser-PMX686-Rating.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhRBtuYk23kfxC8tH9Dy2SSAcD5lR0uMlVGe9GFtpTJFhGqOzMFEalUh2Jr7JXueh-56bDEENBeHotI8MyeWoZ6NesDsACfJRZcIUjwxuuangabl9Jt-NedMHR35KevcmdzWE/s400/Sennheiser-PMX686-Rating.PNG" width="400" /></a></div>
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For the other <a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2015/05/sennheiser-pmx-686-sports-headphones.html" target="_blank">Sennheiser PMX686 SPORTS</a> headphones, the quality appears to be well balanced across the frequency band.<br />
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Note also that a product with a low score in some frequency bands does not imply the overall product is poor. Ultimately, all the bands play their part to deliver the music for complete enjoyment. For instance, I would rate a subwoofer "9" for sub-bass but "0" for treble, while a mini speaker could get a rating "5" across the bands. Yet, the mini speaker sounds better than the standalone subwoofer.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8X3jKi5gVccnHAqTiC4QYFglOR4uMw2kdl4mI_7uVYlz81dnMz71OpUGaZAtMxJ_mHqFd4r-aKTXd38IBrwybrZZxpVzOxlCPYcKhui3qnN59jvHowzGxyf3G0GtC7ScvLaI/s1600/UEplus-Eupho-Rating.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8X3jKi5gVccnHAqTiC4QYFglOR4uMw2kdl4mI_7uVYlz81dnMz71OpUGaZAtMxJ_mHqFd4r-aKTXd38IBrwybrZZxpVzOxlCPYcKhui3qnN59jvHowzGxyf3G0GtC7ScvLaI/s400/UEplus-Eupho-Rating.PNG" width="400" /></a></div>
For <a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2015/04/ub-plus-eupho-mini-speakers-review.html" target="_blank">UE+ Eupho</a> speaker, sub-bass and hi-treble are certainly weak for such a small speaker, but I give high rating overall.<br />
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I will only update audio reviews of recent months, so if there are some products that you want me to create, drop me a mail and I will accede.<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Article written by Chester Tan <a href="http://musicphotolife.com/">http://musicphotolife.com/</a></span></i><div class="blogger-post-footer">Original article published in http://musicphotolife.com/ . Copyright by Chester Tan.</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09903396787688350549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36994309.post-30652779483111764892015-05-13T12:27:00.000+08:002015-05-13T12:38:12.471+08:00Marshall Major Headphones Review<div class="hreview">
My colleague saw the Sennheiser MOMENTUM On-Ear M2 unit that I was reviewing and commented he had a Marshall Major (version 1). The following day, he passed to me for a review.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxPWl8C0Yu3r9Cv7FfvmuhT7kXYz4TmsdoCLN3nVT-A9E4zLPg2M4mS2vT68Z3OAfuUrprGw2RiCbMmzwNI0igT_0rdEdCvexjjGGcjVsV8_n3lEX8JvzNJ0xDNFldtSQYTaM/s1600/IMG_20150507_145523.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxPWl8C0Yu3r9Cv7FfvmuhT7kXYz4TmsdoCLN3nVT-A9E4zLPg2M4mS2vT68Z3OAfuUrprGw2RiCbMmzwNI0igT_0rdEdCvexjjGGcjVsV8_n3lEX8JvzNJ0xDNFldtSQYTaM/s640/IMG_20150507_145523.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The Marshall is a popular brand, manufacturing great guitar amplifiers. The headphones spot a classy vintage design, foldable for ease of storage. The ear cushions are pretty comfortable, though I felt the headband tension is a little tight for my liking. The audio cable is spring-coiled and the 3.5mm plug has metal coils to protect the cable from damage. However, the cables are not removable. Overall, the headphones are compact and well-built.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7aED7lckKMOfMqbn0_FbHCKaU2Lv5D_5BDbqIBrvyRQZEKnACUCSfTHp0dB55ccD2NZwzLUcKyERKd0wc_V9DIFoHTN9rRJplZ-DFolBMZa_gT766AFqHKutHCy8nVbG6Pug/s1600/IMAG0380.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="498" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7aED7lckKMOfMqbn0_FbHCKaU2Lv5D_5BDbqIBrvyRQZEKnACUCSfTHp0dB55ccD2NZwzLUcKyERKd0wc_V9DIFoHTN9rRJplZ-DFolBMZa_gT766AFqHKutHCy8nVbG6Pug/s640/IMAG0380.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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As for the sound, the headphones strikes me as warm-sounding with cosy soundstaging. Treble lacks brilliance, which may work well for listeners who prefer that way. Bass is natural and does not over-exaggerate. It offers a comfortable veiled experience, with emphasis on vocal (or mid-range) tones. If you listen to a lot of heavy treble music, the Marshall Major headphones would save your ears from the damaging high frequencies.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif7U692YyEV7u-9UhTXLZNRaxoFCb8efQ5Yppv8vpE8EX6G05CmxRiAo3cdEag448NFpzlFV4_uegBRnFiNwIAfnw_fqEUSJfAgytvzz7uw954gsBk7jy9EXUyZPkyd41AJfQ/s1600/IMAG0379.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif7U692YyEV7u-9UhTXLZNRaxoFCb8efQ5Yppv8vpE8EX6G05CmxRiAo3cdEag448NFpzlFV4_uegBRnFiNwIAfnw_fqEUSJfAgytvzz7uw954gsBk7jy9EXUyZPkyd41AJfQ/s640/IMAG0379.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The newer Marshall Major II headphones are already selling in Singapore, with improved outlook and a removable audio cable, so you should be looking for that if you are keen on it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGYdgQpp2KgWqKtdrPcAkVqtbwhekkV3rBPbn-0fmslUteAR91eYZEg6cPXs-dU_7GPg1OAbsGiGX8ZQRifBNhoALVnbFH8qZ6-7o8JAxQJrK9orlwz24ut65An-xsvd-8MDc/s1600/Marshall-Major-Rating.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGYdgQpp2KgWqKtdrPcAkVqtbwhekkV3rBPbn-0fmslUteAR91eYZEg6cPXs-dU_7GPg1OAbsGiGX8ZQRifBNhoALVnbFH8qZ6-7o8JAxQJrK9orlwz24ut65An-xsvd-8MDc/s400/Marshall-Major-Rating.PNG" width="400" /></a></div>
<h4>
Good:</h4>
- Warm, cosy sound<br />
- Vintage build, not flashy<br />
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<h4>
Poor:</h4>
- Lacks clarity, details, excitement<br />
- Audio cable not removable<br />
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Reviewed by <span class="reviewer">Chester Tan <a href="http://musicphotolife.com/">http://musicphotolife.com/</a></span><br />
Rating: <span class="rating">3.4</span> of 5</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Original article published in http://musicphotolife.com/ . Copyright by Chester Tan.</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09903396787688350549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36994309.post-20558523417126030782015-05-12T08:11:00.000+08:002015-05-13T12:37:54.628+08:00Sennheiser MOMENTUM M2 On-Ear Headphones Review<div class="hreview">
As Sennheiser collected the <a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2015/05/sennheiser-pmx-686-sports-headphones.html" target="_blank">PMX686 SPORTS</a> headphones from me, they passed me another headphones for my review.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNtNC4W34HzGv0tGbiC1et8VjdhZlTjr0BpdkxpBRr5bG2xolXtf2bUOapcTwzNf2OuWMGbhYx_9bkqFdgkRF1Z03lSP_ODIXRCOkZ6KgfJIkVeiKnibd4AJx3CpNUJZmEzDQ/s1600/Sennheiser-Momentum-On-Ear-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNtNC4W34HzGv0tGbiC1et8VjdhZlTjr0BpdkxpBRr5bG2xolXtf2bUOapcTwzNf2OuWMGbhYx_9bkqFdgkRF1Z03lSP_ODIXRCOkZ6KgfJIkVeiKnibd4AJx3CpNUJZmEzDQ/s640/Sennheiser-Momentum-On-Ear-1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<h3>
Design</h3>
Sennheiser MOMENTUM M2 On-Ear (2nd Generation) is an on-ear closed-back foldable headphones. It comes with a removable cord with in-line mic and playback controls, with a premium velvet hard case for storage. This review unit sports ivory rear covers with gold details around the circumference. The upper headband is wrapped with dark brown velvet with minimal padding.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRnPdLKysGQlbNLFfszNmV5elhmzHHSmCnkIO73N1ib8sg5NAs3rS8q38TwEO88RW24H9rnVWWBhXwReKNlolArxS30E8wOozo3XVA733U0bhxanAge_isy7IQfrBM18A2jAY/s1600/Sennheiser-Momentum-On-Ear-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRnPdLKysGQlbNLFfszNmV5elhmzHHSmCnkIO73N1ib8sg5NAs3rS8q38TwEO88RW24H9rnVWWBhXwReKNlolArxS30E8wOozo3XVA733U0bhxanAge_isy7IQfrBM18A2jAY/s640/Sennheiser-Momentum-On-Ear-2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<h3>
Sound</h3>
What strikes me on first listen is that the MOMENTUM M2 produces clear treble and recessed mids, so vocals turn out to be less forthcoming. Over days, after warming up to the headphones, I delight at the adequate deep bass and good treble clarity, looking past the lack of warm mids. Critically-speaking, the treble might sound "coloured", but if you prefer music with brilliant treble, substantial bass, without emphasis on vocals, you will find this headphones matching to your aural desire.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVeOUTHS2zuM6__z9cYvVz_sK6b74H3KRmXuy0eLpH58gHxeN15Hqn_1nzazQ7Kuz1rMJAjdLcSTWmL67KCicunhlLB8IQyp7MMucJpWIyJ02yT2PIddHFgnZRzSD5twePj0s/s1600/Sennheiser-Momentum-On-Ear-4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVeOUTHS2zuM6__z9cYvVz_sK6b74H3KRmXuy0eLpH58gHxeN15Hqn_1nzazQ7Kuz1rMJAjdLcSTWmL67KCicunhlLB8IQyp7MMucJpWIyJ02yT2PIddHFgnZRzSD5twePj0s/s640/Sennheiser-Momentum-On-Ear-4.JPG" width="578" /></a></div>
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<h3>
Comfort</h3>
While the ear cushions are Alcantara fabric thus more breathable, its pads are not as soft as other headphones. I'm also not a fan of the headband design, where you slide the earpads along the fixed-length metal band. The only good thing is that there is no need to slide up the earpads as what you might do for other headphones to save space during storage. This headphones does not isolate noise well, but they block sufficient ambient noise to let you enjoy the music.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2sR0CCnVZZwuayU1ce_ftrkdsWgEbTtDhio6uxghYaRFPnZk81EHEE8hm43bUxtJQjb15HCai-MxRLKMKg5jJPxH6qFJM63PrY50AEcDtZCcIHFOVCdUQn4odQhyiDPVw16o/s1600/Sennheiser-Momentum-On-Ear-5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2sR0CCnVZZwuayU1ce_ftrkdsWgEbTtDhio6uxghYaRFPnZk81EHEE8hm43bUxtJQjb15HCai-MxRLKMKg5jJPxH6qFJM63PrY50AEcDtZCcIHFOVCdUQn4odQhyiDPVw16o/s640/Sennheiser-Momentum-On-Ear-5.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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The Sennheiser MOMENTUM On-ear M2 headphones are a pleasure to listen to - sparkling yet controlled treble, and substantial bass. Its recommended price in Singapore is S$319, available at Sennheiser Concept Store (Marina Square) and authorised retail stores.<br />
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<h3>
Specs (M2 OEG)</h3>
Frequency response: 16-22,000Hz<br />
Impedance: 18 ohms<br />
Sound pressure level (SPL): 112dB<br />
Total harmonic distortion (THD): < 0,5%<br />
Microphone sensitivity: -44dB V/Pa<br />
Cable length: 1.4m<br />
Content: headphones, cable, manual, carrying case<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDj-A4jut7GUKm9gftNVJ9VSKZLmWiCNHpoSbT_6duLu-rcfKMgLn1WE1AeLHfgNs4LPxqA6euz4xMndc8hHHqpFkp6sx-kMvjfFUpNYerL_IqDkCBFyqsUKer0mkWq7i9dpk/s1600/Momentum-On-Ear-M2-Rating.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDj-A4jut7GUKm9gftNVJ9VSKZLmWiCNHpoSbT_6duLu-rcfKMgLn1WE1AeLHfgNs4LPxqA6euz4xMndc8hHHqpFkp6sx-kMvjfFUpNYerL_IqDkCBFyqsUKer0mkWq7i9dpk/s400/Momentum-On-Ear-M2-Rating.PNG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<h4>
Good:</h4>
- Bright treble<br />
- Strong bass without exaggeration<br />
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<h4>
Poor:</h4>
- Treble and midrange is tuned for mainstream, not for purists<br />
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Reviewed by <span class="reviewer">Chester Tan <a href="http://musicphotolife.com/">http://musicphotolife.com/</a></span><br />
Rating: <span class="rating">3.8</span> of 5<br />
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">Original article published in http://musicphotolife.com/ . Copyright by Chester Tan.</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09903396787688350549noreply@blogger.com0Singapore1.352083 103.819836000000010.8441055 103.174389 1.8600605 104.46528300000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36994309.post-63337489434043897312015-05-10T09:13:00.000+08:002015-05-12T10:33:51.703+08:00Music.Photo.Tech.Digest: 10 May 2015It's Mother's Day today, and knowing my mum reads my blog regularly, I would like to let her know that she is always someone that I care for and in my mind and for whom I am thankful for what I am today, for better or for worse. In other words, I love her.<br />
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<i>(This site would not have existed if not for her. This is the power of motherhood.)</i><br />
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Being your son for 40 years, I am very sure you know my personality better than anyone else on this planet. I know it is not easy to raise me up, but I try my best to be the son you want to be. After having a child of my own, I can appreciate your frustration on working with a child who is less forthright in communication.<br />
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I always love you, mother, even though I do not show it.<br />
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OK, back to the usual digest.<br />
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<h3>
[Life] Journalism vs. Public Relations</h3>
This morning, I woke and when I opened my Facebook, this article share appear on my feed. The sharer claimed he rarely comment on such articles but this "crossed the line". So I went on to read. It originates from an article published on The Business Times by Joyce Hooi on 8 May 2015, under the "Blog - Miss Ann Thrope" section online, titled <a href="http://www.businesstimes.com.sg/blogs/miss-ann-thrope/the-10-things-i-have-always-wanted-to-say-to-pr-folks" target="_blank">"The 10 Things I Have Always Wanted To Say To PR Folks"</a>.<br />
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Darren Ho then responded with an <a href="http://www.augustman.com/open-letter-ms-joyce-hooi#.VU6uH_mqpBc" target="_blank">open letter</a> posted on August Man online.<br />
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Initially I thought I should just watch by the sidelines and not comment. Then I realised that I am somewhat part of the "fight". I may not be a professional journalist, but I have worked with PR agencies before and I feel that Ms. Hooi's article is only a personal ranting on her part. I can only regard this article as her own personal singular individual opinion and is not to generalise about PR. There is no way this article is representative of PR and its importance to journalists and bloggers like myself.<br />
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<h3>
[Music] Philips Fidelio X2: Post-Review Purchase</h3>
There has been several occasions where I bought the product I reviewed. Last night, I collected my <b>purchase</b> of the <a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2015/03/philips-fidelio-x2-headphones-review.html" target="_blank">Philips Fidelio X2</a> headphones, and now in the process of "running-in" or "burn-in". There are schools of thought regarding this practice, with this <a href="http://www.wired.com/2013/11/tnhyui-earphone-burn-in/" target="_blank">article by WIRED</a> feeling that burn-in is a myth. My idea of burn-in is just playing music for several days to let the speaker diaphragm warm up.<br />
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I do agree with the article about "mental burn-in", where our brain got used to the sound and therefore perceive the headphones as better over time. The biological calibration is in our genes, something that I am highly aware when reviewing products. Fortunately for me, I have rather strong neutral aural perception, which I can easily "reset" by resting my ears for a while. I don't achieve Philips "Golden Ears" award for nothing.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvjJirUmQh9aRtECCfYwdw9DK7thoV4XG48VTaOcTSn7VSssNGy55IEkqyudx9NtY6cm-IQQgmdB7pPOgpDn3voD4AjPV_75Cqs88ryynY0SAO4MK4zoMwLk09SkJez6XABCY/s1600/GoldenEars-award.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvjJirUmQh9aRtECCfYwdw9DK7thoV4XG48VTaOcTSn7VSssNGy55IEkqyudx9NtY6cm-IQQgmdB7pPOgpDn3voD4AjPV_75Cqs88ryynY0SAO4MK4zoMwLk09SkJez6XABCY/s640/GoldenEars-award.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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My love for Fidelio X2 is further reinforced when I do a side-by-side comparion with the <a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2015/05/sennheiser-momentum-m2-on-ear-headphones-review.html" target="_blank">Sennheiser MOMENTUM On-Ear M2 (2nd Generation)</a> review unit. The M2 turned up worse that I had previously thought. The treble is too "coloured", a term used to describe that the frequency response is not natural, is tweaked to sound "better" from the original source. But please take my view written on this paragraph with a pinch of salt, because ultimately, every person has different taste for music. Sennheiser has tweaked the M2 to cater for the group of consumers whom they think will like brighter, more energetic treble. All I can safely say is that <a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2015/03/philips-fidelio-x2-headphones-review.html" target="_blank">the X2 is not for everyone</a>.<br />
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<h3>
[Photo] Product Photography</h3>
The only type of photos I have been taking these days is product photography. After all, I snap all the photos in all my review posts instead of using PR photos. This photo collage came about when I wanted a banner photo for a new Google+ feature called "<a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/collection/c2x-Y" target="_blank">Collections</a>".<br />
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<h3>
[Tech] ASUS Transformer Book T300 Chi</h3>
Review still in progress. It is largely positive, but I always look for the negatives as well, because I never believe in a "perfect" product. In general, it's a great-spec stable laptop, with the Bluetooth keyboard connectivity working better than I had thought. The major negative point is that it is too heavy for such a small-footprint laptop. I'm holding my tongue for now, so please stay tuned for my proper review (and proper photos).<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Article written by Chester Tan <a href="http://musicphotolife.com/">http://musicphotolife.com/</a></span></i><div class="blogger-post-footer">Original article published in http://musicphotolife.com/ . Copyright by Chester Tan.</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09903396787688350549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36994309.post-50240095936267000022015-05-06T08:34:00.001+08:002015-05-13T12:47:31.530+08:00Samsung Bluetooth Speaker SB330: Full Metal Beauty<div class="hreview">
If you have bought a Samsung electronic product, like a smartphone or a tablet or a TV, you might have been given some free accessories, like a smartphone desktop stand, a Bluetooth keyboard, or wireless speaker. What you might not know is that these free accessories are actually pretty decent in build quality and functionality.<br />
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I have already shared the <a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2015/01/samsung-desktop-charging-dock-works-with-galaxy-note-4.html" target="_blank">smartphone desktop charging dock previously</a>, an old accessory bundled with Samsung Galaxy S3, S4 and still works with the latest <a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2014/10/samsung-galaxy-note-4-review.html" target="_blank">Samsung Galaxy Note 4</a> and probably <a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2015/03/samsung-galaxy-s6-s6edge-preview.html" target="_blank">S6</a>.<br />
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When I bought the <a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2014/03/samsung-galaxy-note-pro-122-lte-review.html" target="_blank">Samsung Galaxy Note PRO</a> a while back, it came with a Bluetooth keyboard. To my surprise, the keyboard quality is comparable to the pricier likes of Belkin and Logitech. The body is made possibly of metal and has a premium weight to it. Yet, this very keyboard is being sold at the online marketplace for less than S$50, and as low as S$25. If you are looking for cheap but quality Bluetooth keyboard, get this Samsung Bluetooth keyboard, best bang for the buck.<br />
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Last week, a friend passed me a Samsung audio accessory for review. It's the Wireless Speaker SB330, which subsequently rebranded as Level Box. This speaker retails at more than S$200.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMzM0fg6b1Rpc8MJaSYyfPsaLNCrqYeZsaaAnwZ8vGFXJ8rezGE7dylkmp9kNDemRYvn2pIO52XQXxX1M4YoGpVfE7x1_HuNkKCnWiUoZBPN984MbOUxAIO4MMAnExSZPmQ24/s1600/Samsung-Speaker-SB330.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMzM0fg6b1Rpc8MJaSYyfPsaLNCrqYeZsaaAnwZ8vGFXJ8rezGE7dylkmp9kNDemRYvn2pIO52XQXxX1M4YoGpVfE7x1_HuNkKCnWiUoZBPN984MbOUxAIO4MMAnExSZPmQ24/s1600/Samsung-Speaker-SB330.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Its body is entirely metal-encased with the base generously laden with rubber. Connecting to Bluetooth devices is simple with NFC. The speaker produces warm tone with recessed upper frequency, making soundtracks that are heavy on the highs sound pleasant. The weakness of this speaker is when playing at low volume, the speaker sounds muffled. So to deliver full potential, you must turn up the volume. I did a comparison with the S$99 <a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2014/12/logitech-x300-wireless-stereo-speaker.html" target="_blank">Logitech X300 </a>which has similar sound signature, and find that the SB330 loses in loudness but wins in design and battery life. Also, the SB330 does not have the loudness limiter effect at high volume like X300.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhNvb9uLA2sX6SmW3yf_x1ZcFgljBiDDGlg1R8uDFwwR22FZSeRsIKZcKU9-1fMPcOC7vscSCbAt80z6xSzyEFP_4MhdebnFsdenjLF8WoRbO46V9BXG62rOfNuIMJ89-WgU8/s1600/Samsung-SB330-Logitech-X300.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhNvb9uLA2sX6SmW3yf_x1ZcFgljBiDDGlg1R8uDFwwR22FZSeRsIKZcKU9-1fMPcOC7vscSCbAt80z6xSzyEFP_4MhdebnFsdenjLF8WoRbO46V9BXG62rOfNuIMJ89-WgU8/s1600/Samsung-SB330-Logitech-X300.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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If you enjoy music without sounding harsh at the highs, and love a good-looking premium-built speaker, you can put your dollar on a bargain unit of the Samsung SB330, if you can find one at that price. If you have a budget of $299, I only have one recommendation: <a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2014/01/bose-soundlink-mini-bluetooth-speaker.html" target="_blank">Bose SoundLink Mini</a>.<br />
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<h3>
Specs:</h3>
Dimensions: 164.3 (W) x 69.2 (H) x 62.3 (D) mm<br />
Weight: 600g<br />
Battery playback time: 15 hours<br />
Battery charging time: 2.5 hours<br />
Connection: Bluetooth (aptX), NFC<br />
Speakerphone: Yes<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjod1X9YhncS6FcV3BR-yTkQwHRHTtPBus2GetEaF8-wPuBDUY7kUNwqdWJ2uizFohmadqSpLtwMR6Wb3gvhVNG8FVqvINAnJGpEpENPQ1gtWq24BKdKmNPif3X4A1jo33N714/s1600/Samsung-SB330-Rating.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjod1X9YhncS6FcV3BR-yTkQwHRHTtPBus2GetEaF8-wPuBDUY7kUNwqdWJ2uizFohmadqSpLtwMR6Wb3gvhVNG8FVqvINAnJGpEpENPQ1gtWq24BKdKmNPif3X4A1jo33N714/s400/Samsung-SB330-Rating.PNG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<h4>
Good:</h4>
- Build quality and design<br />
- Warm sound with sufficient treble and bass for non-intrusive music<br />
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<h4>
Poor:</h4>
- Need to turn up the volume to improve clarity<br />
- Speaker not loud enough for impact<br />
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Reviewed by <span class="reviewer">Chester Tan <a href="http://musicphotolife.com/">http://musicphotolife.com/</a></span><br />
Rating: <span class="rating">3.4</span> of 5</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Original article published in http://musicphotolife.com/ . Copyright by Chester Tan.</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09903396787688350549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36994309.post-90071545884037734812015-05-05T07:47:00.002+08:002015-05-13T12:51:27.583+08:00Sennheiser PMX 686 SPORTS Headphones Review<div class="hreview">
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Sennheiser has recently launched a new SPORTS headphones series in Singapore, MX686, CX686, PMX686 and OCX686. While they all sport identical lime-green colour scheme, each of them are designed differently depending on your fitness purpose. To cut off ambient noise, like gym, go for CX686 and OCX686 that are in-ear (ear-canal) designs. If you prefer the open acoustic designs to allay ear canal pressure and to hear ambient noises, go for MX686 or PMX686.<br />
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Sennheiser passed me the PMX686G (for Android) for review and I took it for a run. This is the only model among the 4 with a neckband, providing a rather comfortable tension: not too tight to be painful, not too loose to fall off during runs. They are also easy to wear, as I managed to fit into my ears properly without much fuss. The earphones are specially angled towards the ear canals to deliver optimal sound to the ears.<br />
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PMX686 has only one cable running from one of the earphones, thus is the least messy among the 4 headphones, but is also the bulkiest due to the neckband. The in-line control allows ease of volume and playback control, as well as for answering incoming calls. The included breathable fabric carrying pouch helps to keep the headphone safe when stored.<br />
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Sound-wise, the headphones offer great audio quality. When the earbuds are closer to the ear canals, you can experience deep bass response and well-balanced treble without the edge. If you refer more treble tone, just fit the buds loosely against the ear canals and increase the volume. I find that as I ran, the bass impact lessen because the earbuds got less snug against the ear canals due to muscle movements.<br />
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I enjoy listening music with the PMX686 even when I'm not running. It delivers good sound staging and instrument separation that is on par with audio-grade consumer earphones. Wear it during your regular commute, to show off your sporty side.<br />
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The Sennheiser PMX686G for Android is available now in Singapore at recommended retail price of S$149, from Sennheiser Concept Store (Marina Square) and authorised dealers. The iOS variant (PMX686i) will be available after June 2015. Owners enjoy 2 year warranty.<br />
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<h3>
Specs</h3>
Frequency response: 18-20,000Hz<br />
Impedance: 30 ohms<br />
Sound pressure level: 120dB<br />
THD: < 0,5%<br />
Microphone sensitivity: -44dB V/Pa<br />
Ear coupling: Earbud (open)<br />
Cable length: 1.2m<br />
Weight (product and packaging): 27.47g<br />
Content: earphones, storage pouch, cable clip<br />
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<h4>
Good:</h4>
- Balanced sound with details across frequency bands<br />
- Easy to wear onto ears<br />
<h4>
Poor:</h4>
- Earbuds do not stay sealed against ear canals during workout, thus you may not get the best music experience<br />
- Headband takes up space during storage<br />
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Reviewed by <span class="reviewer">Chester Tan <a href="http://musicphotolife.com/">http://musicphotolife.com/</a></span><br />
Rating: <span class="rating">4.2</span> of 5</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Original article published in http://musicphotolife.com/ . Copyright by Chester Tan.</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09903396787688350549noreply@blogger.com0Singapore1.352083 103.819836000000010.8441055 103.174389 1.8600605 104.46528300000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36994309.post-21252236962166376452015-05-03T22:43:00.001+08:002015-05-03T22:43:27.170+08:00Music.Photo.Tech.Digest: 3 May 2015Long time no <a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2015/04/MPTD-6Apr2015.html" target="_blank">digest</a>. After I finished my <a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2015/04/ub-plus-eupho-mini-speakers-review.html" target="_blank">UB+ Eupho speakers review</a>, I had no more products on review. And I was taking a breather from zero units on review - a rare occurrence. I was wondering how long this drought would last when it all came back to me again - 4 review units up for my attention.<br />
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Now that you know what's coming over the next weeks (hint: they are all in the photo above), here's a recap of my reviews done since my last digest.<br />
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<h3>
Android Tablet: Dell Venue 8</h3>
Why it matters: It is the thinnest tablet in the world at only 6mm, encased in aluminium block. Its screen is 2560x1600 QHD. Its front-facing speakers are good. It has 4 cameras - yes, FOUR (3 are used for depth perception, 1 is the front camera).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIMF30hvqsMMRS9WYGeYA5saiMew9aTUardY1C00-JVI1631xjIaBeOS4yBcUBTH5azHCW8XZLvYZYYm1NqtzbKyHi1I8VlJT6uS0Txl9Yl0LppOYMR3h3zThpL1Mtg8cmZYE/s1600/Dell-Venue8-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIMF30hvqsMMRS9WYGeYA5saiMew9aTUardY1C00-JVI1631xjIaBeOS4yBcUBTH5azHCW8XZLvYZYYm1NqtzbKyHi1I8VlJT6uS0Txl9Yl0LppOYMR3h3zThpL1Mtg8cmZYE/s1600/Dell-Venue8-1.JPG" height="640" width="460" /></a></div>
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Why it does not matter: The camera quality is poor. You don't need a tablet.<br />
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Review: <a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2015/04/dell-venue-8-7000-series-tablet-review.html">http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2015/04/dell-venue-8-7000-series-tablet-review.html</a><br />
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<h3>
Music: Sony NWZ-A15 Walkman</h3>
Why it matters: It is the smallest and lightest high-res audio digital music player. It has loads of tech features including NFC, Bluetooth, 50-hour battery life, microSD card slot, FM radio, and my favourite SensMe Channels mode. Having a dedicated music player frees your smartphone to do what it does best: online surfing, answering calls, saving battery.<br />
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Why it does not matter: You think your current music player in your smartphone is good enough and find it redundant to have a separate music player to carry around.<br />
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Review: <a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2015/04/sony-nwz-a15-high-res-walkman-review.html">http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2015/04/sony-nwz-a15-high-res-walkman-review.html</a><br />
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<h3>
Speaker: UB+ Eupho Mini Bluetooth</h3>
Why it matters: It is designed in Singapore. It delivers impressive sound for its size. It looks unique and has practical expandable accessories.<br />
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Why it does not matter: There are too many small speakers in the market at a lower price, and though the sound quality of these low-priced speakers are questionable, I'm not sure if this target market cares much about the sound faithfulness.<br />
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Review: <a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2015/04/ub-plus-eupho-mini-speakers-review.html">http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2015/04/ub-plus-eupho-mini-speakers-review.html</a><br />
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<h3>
Android Phone: HTC One M9</h3>
Why it matters: Its aluminium body finish is "jewellery-grade", where each unit is hand-finished by craftsman. It feels stunningly solid, buyers should refrain from covering it with a casing. Design-aside, the UI is sleek, the hardware is top-of-the-line.<br />
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Why it does not matter: Camera lovers might not get the best image quality among the recent competitors.<br />
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Review: <a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2015/04/htc-one-m9-premium-all-over-again.html">http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2015/04/htc-one-m9-premium-all-over-again.html</a><br />
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<h3>
Looking for more reviews?</h3>
If you have browsed through my blog, you will find that I seldom voice opinions about products that I have never tried before. My site does not exist for internet traffic or for revenue. It exists to offer independent reviews, providing a different voice from other professional sites. Because I am not as popular as many other sites, the brands tend to give priority to them.<br />
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If you want to read more reviews from this site, you can help yourself by <b><u>sharing my articles</u></b>, so that more people will come to know of my site and read my reviews, to increase traffic and social influence. If you find my reviews inadequate, I welcome your comments so that I can improve.<div class="blogger-post-footer">Original article published in http://musicphotolife.com/ . Copyright by Chester Tan.</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09903396787688350549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36994309.post-31848734128872241632015-04-30T09:01:00.000+08:002015-04-30T09:05:48.877+08:00HTC One M9: Premium All Over Again<div class="hreview">
I have been using <a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2014/04/htc-one-m8-review-first-impressions.html" target="_blank">HTC One M8</a> for the past year, replacing the <a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2013/07/htc-butterfly-s-better-smartphone-for.html" target="_blank">HTC Butterfly S</a>. These 2 phones changed my impression of HTC phones. I appreciate the curvy back design, their camera quality, and most importantly, the incomparable butter-smooth modern-looking Sense UI.<br />
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I was hoping that HTC would wow us with the latest One M9 like what it did for the M7, and after a long wait since its official announcement, I finally received a unit from <a href="http://community.starhub.com/" target="_blank">StarHub Community</a> to write my review, before it officially goes on sale in Singapore on 2 May 2015.<br />
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<h3>
Design</h3>
There are elemental design differences between the M8 and M9. The M9 review unit I have sports a dual-tone Gold-on-Silver finishing with sharp sides, while the M8 back curves all the way around the sides. Interestingly, this sharper design gives an impression of a more aggressive hold with the M9 as compared to the smoother slippier M8. The power button is shifted from the top to the right side along with the volume buttons, offering greater ease of access. The M9 camera lens module is more prominently square, and it protrudes compared to the smaller round M8 camera that flushes with the surface. Being sapphire-coated, I believe it should be safe from scratches over time.<br />
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Size-wise, both M9 and M8 are virtually identical, save for a few millimetres. In fact, they are so similar that I could fit my M8 casings onto the M9. Interestingly, while M9 is lighter than M8 by 3 grams, it feels heavier.<br />
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Without a doubt, the carefully detailed aluminium body is what makes me love owning the M9.<br />
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<h3>
Hardware</h3>
The M9 has revised most of the hardware specs: 8-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 810 64-bit processor, 3GB RAM, 32GB internal memory, 2840mAh battery, 20MP f/2.2 rear camera. Largely unchanged: BoomSound speakers, 5-inch full-HD display. Even so, the BoomSound is tweaked with clearer treble output, making it sound a notch louder than the M8.<br />
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The display appears to be more muted and warmer, but slightly sharper and detailed compared to M8.<br />
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<h3>
Camera</h3>
The 20MP camera is a step away from the UltraPixel that HTC has been evangelising for 2 years. I find the M9 camera exposure slightly conservative (read: underexposed). When pixel-peeping, there are some noticeable compression artefacts compared to the <a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2015/03/samsung-galaxy-s6-s6edge-preview.html" target="_blank">Samsung Galaxy S6</a>.<br />
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With good lighting, the M9 easily surpasses the M8. But when light falls, the M9 fails to shine. Images turn out with slight magenta cast with less-than-stellar colour tone.<br />
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As for the front-facing camera which is UltraPixel (4MP), images are tuned to look brighter with a beauty slider to adjust the intensity of skin smoothening.<br />
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<h3>
Battery</h3>
The battery performance of the M9 is slightly better than M8, but with my kind of heavy usage, it is still not enough to last the entire waking day comfortably. The M9 supports Qualcomm QuickCharge which allows me to charge up 50% in just 30 mins, but HTC packs just a standard voltage charger, unlike other manufacturers. It is puzzling why HTC does not want to sell that feature to mitigate any ill-feelings of inadequate battery capacity.<br />
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<h3>
Sense 6 to 7</h3>
For existing M8 owners who has already upgraded to Sense 6, the look and feel is indiscernible, except for a few additional customisation options on the bottom navigation buttons, more Theme options (like fonts), able to enable individual motion launch gestures instead of all-or-none.<br />
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Of course, the beauty of switching from an existing HTC device to M9 is that I can conveniently restore all my settings, messages and apps over the air, including the home screen page layouts.<br />
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For non-HTC users looking at the M9, here are a list of features that may entice you to switch over, apart from the gorgeous metal body.<br />
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<h3>
HTC Sense 7 UI</h3>
HTC Sense is one of the cleanest, speediest Android UI ever. If you need your smartphone to be highly responsive to actions without any unnecessary transition lags, I would go for HTC One M9. I love the modern minimalist design, and the UI does not suffer from performance retardation (speaking from 1-year experience with HTC One M8).<br />
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The new Sense 7 now lets you edit the bottom navigation icons. I can choose to turn off screen, hide navigation bar, pull down notification, auto rotate. I can also rearrange the icons, so this is great for owners where the back button is located elsewhere. For now, you can only add one custom icon, and the default 3 icons cannot be removed.<br />
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The ability to add the power button as a navigation button is excellent for drivers who mount the phone to the car dock. I can easily switch off the display by pressing the soft button. Turning on the screen is simply double-tapping the screen.<br />
<br />
<h3>
BoomSound</h3>
The next best thing on the HTC One M9 is the BoomSound. After so many years since the launch of M7 in 2013, no other smartphone manufacturer comes close. The M9 improves the BoomSound experience with Dolby Audio, providing more life-like surround sound.<br />
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The best part is that the speakers face the front, so you no longer have to put yourself in awkward positions to hear the audio clearly.<br />
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<h3>
HTC Themes</h3>
HTC recently launched the Themes app which lets you download or create your own themes. The app also makes it easy for you to share your themes to the HTC online community. You can also choose to download and customise specific areas like wallpaper, icons, fonts, accent colours, keyboard and keypad colours. HTC Theme app is also available to HTC One M8 and other HTC phones updated to Sense 6 UI but with fewer features.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-niwgHZ_fDZhcct6phG6rL86M8bj2h48Jc-kE85OH3GYUGSQv2_qwIv8jKj54xS9h64jVPtlB4sg6OguFv_JvV-9LI4TTEeqJISNQz6HGVX2pTsdu7Z4huVOuBv96i248QJQ/s1600/HTCOneM9-screen3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-niwgHZ_fDZhcct6phG6rL86M8bj2h48Jc-kE85OH3GYUGSQv2_qwIv8jKj54xS9h64jVPtlB4sg6OguFv_JvV-9LI4TTEeqJISNQz6HGVX2pTsdu7Z4huVOuBv96i248QJQ/s1600/HTCOneM9-screen3.jpg" height="400" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />
<h3>
HTC BlinkFeed</h3>
One of the first to create a dedicated newsfeed homescreen, the BlinkFeed is your periodic digest of news that you can customise. HTC has done it right from Day One: while other brands opt for clumsy widgets or hidden swipes to reveal their versions of news feeds, BlinkFeed exists as a homescreen page and works comfortably. There is option to remove it altogether if you prefer your own news feed app.<br />
<br />
<h3>
HTC Photo Editor</h3>
The new integrated photo editor has a handful of interesting editing effects. HTC categorises the edits into Essentials, Flair, Effects and Touch Up. Besides the usual crop and colour tone edits (Essentials) and drawing (Flair), you can now apply multi-photo shape effects or double exposures (Effects), as well as manipulating face shapes, eye tones and clarity (Touch Up).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_pJTVw-_zP4El1DDOyph2kfPvlJFqw8LEHYkSza66dg3tBXTaC6Wu7JFoUQozPJWZ-aPYKNxHKz5qCIv-DKLZCSMdlf99qn88IIEFeM-d54JaCR4733ggju9VGf_Zz8mkkt0/s1600/Screenshot_2015-04-29-21-45-52.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_pJTVw-_zP4El1DDOyph2kfPvlJFqw8LEHYkSza66dg3tBXTaC6Wu7JFoUQozPJWZ-aPYKNxHKz5qCIv-DKLZCSMdlf99qn88IIEFeM-d54JaCR4733ggju9VGf_Zz8mkkt0/s1600/Screenshot_2015-04-29-21-45-52.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />
<h3>
HTC Sense Home</h3>
This new widget which is location-aware will display your frequently-used apps and provide recommendations. Unfortunately, it does not offer any location-based setting triggers, like changing ringtones or activating WiFi, though you can easily download third party apps. If you do not find a use for it, you can easily remove it from the home screen.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzKqzXcGX6_BtiTuWPbf0993ICn7YfaM1T2Ks24OTyoQ5Ii3Q5V08_JlQreqDNTqbRVEMws8dsyelIk7tVoUEm3PChonY6HC6bO-e0V8vwuI8zGAJJlgKXXBT5ijZIxjaaH08/s1600/HTCOneM9-screen5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzKqzXcGX6_BtiTuWPbf0993ICn7YfaM1T2Ks24OTyoQ5Ii3Q5V08_JlQreqDNTqbRVEMws8dsyelIk7tVoUEm3PChonY6HC6bO-e0V8vwuI8zGAJJlgKXXBT5ijZIxjaaH08/s1600/HTCOneM9-screen5.jpg" height="640" width="360" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
HTC Fun Fit</h3>
Not to lose out to the fitness and activity-logging generation of consumers, HTC also introduces their version of tracking your activity, like calories burnt, steps took, via the M9. You can add friends who are also signed in using Google+ or Facebook and compare stats.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizd1FLTeavwDXrStRu_vmeMTJhL25CLxsyz3bhTPqFlgSAnHRQtW2kSGAoSTpQXEl-YnJWqByQgEjpLXKySBWWb6LYBboab8KfOaWlpXj7HJWlOEwqOn2ePbJGlt1IrEC_pmg/s1600/HTCOneM9-screen4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizd1FLTeavwDXrStRu_vmeMTJhL25CLxsyz3bhTPqFlgSAnHRQtW2kSGAoSTpQXEl-YnJWqByQgEjpLXKySBWWb6LYBboab8KfOaWlpXj7HJWlOEwqOn2ePbJGlt1IrEC_pmg/s1600/HTCOneM9-screen4.jpg" height="640" width="360" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
HTC Zoe</h3>
Since 2013, Zoe has offered consumers with an easy way to create professional-looking video montages. Since then, many others have emulated this feature, including Google+. It is also easy to share your Zoe creations by uploading to the HTC Zoe site and sharing the link to whoever you want. <br />
<br />
<br />
<h3>
Verdict</h3>
As a HTC One M8 owner, I am enticed by the new M9 edgier design with more premium finishing details. I like the improved 3GB RAM size and 32GB internal memory so I have less worries over storage. I enjoy the newer HTC Sense 7, offering greater flexibility in customising the M9 look and feel. I continue appreciate the BoomSound which gives me the awesome stereo quality audio that no other smartphones come close.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirABnfikcPcFbxhMrWxlOqhkCBBsMTeYsl1b1CWsSAt2AzgA53iy2dT1Rje_Ekv-VKfnH_cTqCn6FAeTP2DmCma2I7WavSUTrLZX7jJ92huoN35ZTSTbb2_gvYFHbMDzVbZjs/s1600/HTCOneM9-M8-6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirABnfikcPcFbxhMrWxlOqhkCBBsMTeYsl1b1CWsSAt2AzgA53iy2dT1Rje_Ekv-VKfnH_cTqCn6FAeTP2DmCma2I7WavSUTrLZX7jJ92huoN35ZTSTbb2_gvYFHbMDzVbZjs/s1600/HTCOneM9-M8-6.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
If I were to upgrade, I will get a higher-megapixel rear camera, and while the low-light quality is not better than M8, the front UltraPixel camera delivers the same greatness as the M8 rear camera. I will miss the duo camera that makes background blur editing fun. The battery may improve a little, and it is easier to power up the phone. The UI continues to be just as butter smooth as M8.<br />
<br />
For non-HTC readers here, the HTC One M9 will wow you with the unbeatable speaker audio quality and the uncluttered smooth UI experience. The trend of Android devices in 2015 is to run efficiently with fewer application memory hogs, and the HTC One M9 remains the top contender in this aspect.<br />
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HTC One M9 is available in Singapore from 2 May 2015 from all telcos, including StarHub.<br />
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<h3>
Specs</h3>
<ul>
<li>CPU Speed: Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 810, octa core 64-bit, 4 x 2.0GHz + 4 x 1.5GHz</li>
<li>Memory</li>
<ul>
<li>ROM: 32GB / RAM: 3GB</li>
<li>Extended memory: microSD™ up to 2 TB</li>
</ul>
<li>Sensors: Ambient light, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyro, Magnetic, Sensor Hub</li>
<li>Camera</li>
<ul>
<li>Main camera: 20MP with sapphire cover lens, auto-focus, BSI sensor, f/2.2, 27.8mm lens, 4K video recording</li>
<li>Front camera: HTC UltraPixel™, BSI sensor, f/2.0, 26.8mm lens, 1080p video recording</li>
</ul>
<li>SIM Card Type: nano SIM</li>
<li>Battery Capacity: 2840 mAh</li>
<li>Talk time: Up to 25.4 hours for 2G/ 21.7 hours for 3G</li>
<li>Standby time: Up to 391 hours for 2G/ 402hours for 3G</li>
<li>Size: 144.6 x 69.7 x 9.61 mm</li>
<li>Weight: 157g</li>
<li>Sound: HTC BoomSound™ with Dolby Audio™</li>
<li>Audio supported formats: .aac, .amr, .ogg, .m4a, .mid, .mp3, .wav, .wma, .flac, .ac3, .ec3, .eac3</li>
<li>Video supported formats: .3gp, .3g2, .mp4, .wmv, .avi, .mkv</li>
<li>Display: 5.0 inch, Full HD 1080p</li>
<li>Network</li>
<ul>
<li>2G/2.5G - GSM/GPRS/EDGE: 850/900/1800/1900 MHz</li>
<li>3G UMTS: 850/900/1900/2100 MHz</li>
<li>4G LTE: FDD Bands 1,3,5,7,8,20,28. TDD Bands 38, 40, 41</li>
</ul>
<li>Connectivity: NFC, Bluetooth® 4.1, Wi-Fi®: 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac (2.4 & 5 GHz), DLNA®, HDMI MHL 3.0, CIR, 3.5 mm stereo audio jack, micro-USB 2.0 (5-pin) port</li>
<li>GPS: Internal GPS antenna + GLONASS</li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
Reviewed by <span class="reviewer">Chester Tan <a href="http://musicphotolife.com/">http://musicphotolife.com/</a></span><br />
Rating: <span class="rating">4</span> of 5</div>
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<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">Original article published in http://musicphotolife.com/ . Copyright by Chester Tan.</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09903396787688350549noreply@blogger.com0Singapore1.352083 103.819836000000010.8441055 103.174389 1.8600605 104.46528300000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36994309.post-73055979393624553722015-04-20T22:15:00.000+08:002015-04-20T22:15:18.905+08:00We Always Learn From FailuresYesterday, while driving out to buy back breakfast for the family, I noticed a warning light on my dashboard.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXP0P23ZhIqPQzvEtln4aurIf2BdfESuFloA0AG0AyQ700KJGLexR1UVaYPUOmigt7iv5lgV-d8LqzeSuuI08_A5vBWBOpdq0b6vGjtmO2WwDrm-KA-llMt4XB2gRvq_y8PNk/s1600/IMAG0248.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXP0P23ZhIqPQzvEtln4aurIf2BdfESuFloA0AG0AyQ700KJGLexR1UVaYPUOmigt7iv5lgV-d8LqzeSuuI08_A5vBWBOpdq0b6vGjtmO2WwDrm-KA-llMt4XB2gRvq_y8PNk/s1600/IMAG0248.jpg" height="362" width="640" /></a></div>
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Instinct told me that it cannot be. I service my car faithfully every 10,000km, and I service at the official <a href="http://chevrolet.com.sg/" target="_blank">Chevrolet Singapore</a> service centre, <a href="http://alpinemotors.sg/support/" target="_blank">Alpine Motors</a>.<br />
<br />
I took the risk and proceeded to drive to my destination, bought the breakfast, and drove back. I paid attention to any unusual sounds or smell coming from the car along the way, turned off aircon, switched off radio and unwound the window to make sure I did not miss out any details.<br />
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I made it home.<br />
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After calming my mind, I went back down to the car and inspected the engine oil level.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguCqrCg0aWAHLSRJWmpLAaSHaF3PnEbZXQEuoISshqlpIKJl1104Nb6G5XV05rgrZE1d6eIIfBkX3DWvbu_RuRgt24eLY1JdPAQkghZFBf8vzmWvsJduWjT_U6g62HBleKeNI/s1600/IMAG0251.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguCqrCg0aWAHLSRJWmpLAaSHaF3PnEbZXQEuoISshqlpIKJl1104Nb6G5XV05rgrZE1d6eIIfBkX3DWvbu_RuRgt24eLY1JdPAQkghZFBf8vzmWvsJduWjT_U6g62HBleKeNI/s1600/IMAG0251.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
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Looks normal.<br />
<br />
I also googled on the reasons why the oil pressure light would be lit up intermittently, and came across several articles which pointed to a faulty oil pressure sensor.<br />
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<i>"If the oil level is between ADD and FULL, and the engine was running normally (no noise) after the oil pressure warning light came on, the problem may be a defective oil pressure sending unit, oil pressure gauge or warning light switch. You can probably start the engine and drive the vehicle home or to a shop for repairs. But if the engine starts to become noisy, STOP and shut off the engine." </i><a href="http://www.aa1car.com/library/problem_engine_oil.htm">http://www.aa1car.com/library/problem_engine_oil.htm</a><br />
<br />
<br />
This article even came with an informative diagram.<br />
<a href="http://www.popularmechanics.com/cars/how-to/a7623/why-does-your-cars-oil-light-come-on-8657725/">http://www.popularmechanics.com/cars/how-to/a7623/why-does-your-cars-oil-light-come-on-8657725/</a><br />
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<a href="http://pop.h-cdn.co/assets/cm/15/05/54cae9d36d9f0_-_oil-light-0512-de.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://pop.h-cdn.co/assets/cm/15/05/54cae9d36d9f0_-_oil-light-0512-de.jpg" height="574" width="640" /></a></div>
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As much as I was convinced that it might just be a sensor problem, I decided to let my car have a rest. Who knows what other problems this symptom could lead to? I needed an experienced mechanic to diagnose. Furthermore, I did not want to risk having a broken car in the middle of the road with my family in tow.<br />
<br />
So I took public transport for the rest of the day with my family, and it felt liberating. For once, I felt there is no responsibility, no stress. We took our time to do what we wanted. For the first time, we ate at this restaurant at the shopping mall where my daughter attended classes for 3 years. After dining at our leisurely pace, we walked to the MRT station, and we reached our home in 4 train stations (including a change in track line).<br />
<br />
Today, I drove the car to <a href="http://alpinemotors.sg/support/" target="_blank">Alpine Motors</a> without an appointment. While the reception lady was curt to advise that walk-in customers will be served after all the pre-booked customers, the service counter staff was more than enthusiastic to take my issue. After all, how many owners would drive their car to the service centre at 8am?<br />
<br />
The service staff confidently diagnosed my car issue as faulty sensor. Within 2 hours, he called me and said the car was ready for collection. Cost: S$107. It may cost a lot cheaper if I were to go to a unauthorised workshop, but what I am paying for is not just the material cost. I am paying for service quality, product reliability and peace of mind. Plus, I get a complimentary car wash and interior vacuum.<br />
<br />
Through failures - in this case, the failure of my car part - we learn. Without this experience, I would never have read up more about this engine oil pressure sensor and gained new knowledge.<br />
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<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Written by Chester Tan. <a href="http://musicphotolife.com/">http://musicphotolife.com/</a></i></span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Original article published in http://musicphotolife.com/ . Copyright by Chester Tan.</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09903396787688350549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36994309.post-11121601844476887812015-04-13T08:56:00.000+08:002015-05-13T13:10:46.452+08:00UB+ Eupho Mini Bluetooth Speakers Review<div class="hreview">
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<br />
Singapore certainly has no shortage of enterprising ideas and designs. What we need are opportunities for them to showcase their products prominently and for consumers to support local brands. Recently, UB-Plus (UB+), a local brand, approached me to review their new audio product: Eupho portable Bluetooth speakers.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAQCotK6_r0X1FjOyejXmfg-V2jn3pudAkXSnoHyM5ql6tpGiBFY_Eeicq9GqMEj2ugLXP82Vi_zIrgAwmB_rM8HUZJ0cgJCBdOJFRjWzy2Pno2w3SJeCcICmny2poj0KFTdI/s1600/UBplus-Eupho-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAQCotK6_r0X1FjOyejXmfg-V2jn3pudAkXSnoHyM5ql6tpGiBFY_Eeicq9GqMEj2ugLXP82Vi_zIrgAwmB_rM8HUZJ0cgJCBdOJFRjWzy2Pno2w3SJeCcICmny2poj0KFTdI/s1600/UBplus-Eupho-2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Eupho is capable of connecting multiple speakers for stereo effect and is smaller than a regular can drink. In fact, my wife commented that it looked like salt and pepper shakers. This "lifestyle look" is exactly what UB+ intended. Its rubber-coated cylindrical shape design with triangular-shaped grill blends the Eupho easily into modern homes.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSevGXY2DSLVYuBO2q2zOhIaOc6TC05B-d-YRsgNU8ww6u_wo9SAs3QqNqnDgaidrsdXcnLbzwGDNni0mPv3UmkjOpilsSZsJSBbtbtFEomGPi31y0cGsVPON2n9JgwWftPBU/s1600/UBplus-Eupho-9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSevGXY2DSLVYuBO2q2zOhIaOc6TC05B-d-YRsgNU8ww6u_wo9SAs3QqNqnDgaidrsdXcnLbzwGDNni0mPv3UmkjOpilsSZsJSBbtbtFEomGPi31y0cGsVPON2n9JgwWftPBU/s1600/UBplus-Eupho-9.jpg" width="474" /></a></div>
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One of the key selling features of Eupho is the ability to integrate other accessories or products to offer a seamless audio solution. At their main office, UB+ showed me a few concept prototypes, like a tower of half dozen Euphos, and a soundbar-module with slots for Eupho placement. For now, the only add-on module available for Eupho is the expansion casing which doubles as a protective case. Smart designs like these led Eupho to win several design awards, including the Singapore Good Design Mark 2015 and A'Design Award 2014-2015.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4I13IieDWbIfVFBZPvhQeN8b-QUNFIcrcjj68gwZWXxjs2JKHEP4CJyq9DAR7dup5i0B1MVE7viYgGcEptrQK9xFPimHH5Q3SdU-O75H6lI2xTELzkOssmvz-JI7-4hKeIdI/s1600/UBplus-Eupho-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4I13IieDWbIfVFBZPvhQeN8b-QUNFIcrcjj68gwZWXxjs2JKHEP4CJyq9DAR7dup5i0B1MVE7viYgGcEptrQK9xFPimHH5Q3SdU-O75H6lI2xTELzkOssmvz-JI7-4hKeIdI/s1600/UBplus-Eupho-6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Here's what Eupho offers in brief:<br />
- supports music via 3.5mm cable, USB audio, Bluetooth.<br />
- supports multiple speakers via "BuddyStereo" port.<br />
- supports voice calls<br />
- modular for expansion beyond a single unit.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Audio Quality</h3>
UB+ Eupho is powered by a patented technology called ORCHAS. In simple terms, the technology enables Eupho to have:<br />
- Full range point source sound<br />
- Minimal external vibration<br />
- Highly efficient bass reproduction<br />
- Enhanced sound with personalised casings<br />
<br />
If you have been a critical audio listener, you should know that there are trade-offs between full sound and speaker size. It is impossible for a small speaker to deliver full sound comparable to larger speakers. It is like expecting a small fan to produce the same wind power as a large fan. What's more, Eupho speakers are upward facing and not front-facing, further affecting the audio impact to the listener. <br />
<br />
In consideration of the size and design, the Eupho delivers impressive audio output. Listening to the Eupho at about 50cm away, it delivers relatively full, warm tones with subtle treble clarity, while the bass is audible though not particularly impactful. Classical tracks are delivered with good timbre detail and sufficient instrument clarity. Even at quiet passages, the instruments are distinctly audible. Unlike most other mini speakers I tried, Eupho is tuned with non-exaggerated treble tone, which I prefer. If you are too used to the often sharp-treble qualities of other small speakers, the Eupho might come across as slightly muffled.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr4dxHpJTFOJQ-A8nPmo_LR7pvk1J7CbNUmhDolfy8ezN8o8MWlPoJLU088WETvIwsG5AIt_r_lH7zzpm9xZeRQ0X08WMH6g8TfuR2j1h2fQTmbqx0eQgfncozzgkUBdFF3ME/s1600/UBplus-Eupho-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr4dxHpJTFOJQ-A8nPmo_LR7pvk1J7CbNUmhDolfy8ezN8o8MWlPoJLU088WETvIwsG5AIt_r_lH7zzpm9xZeRQ0X08WMH6g8TfuR2j1h2fQTmbqx0eQgfncozzgkUBdFF3ME/s1600/UBplus-Eupho-4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
When the optional expansion casing is inserted, the vent below the Eupho is opened up to allow air to pump into the casing. With this larger chamber, the bass response is improved with more distinct audible bass notes, and the mid-tones turn out less boomy and overpowering. Playing pop or jazz music will deliver that real bass tone that is often lacking in such small speakers.<br />
<br />
The magic happens when you link a second Eupho via the BuddyStereo. You get a broader omnipresent audio, and the musical details are distributed across 2 speakers. In this setup, the Eupho performs at loud volumes with better confidence and less restricted.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib0xMrCWId49zgzqLGtlQwu8sJrnJ-kGn6jr-AUUrvaVXC1rQwCdOv6WMD9i_pLWlT_bweMmEEN59lsQIbbavDbO7aGVBIirD4xFOOga1Gj7GeBaZ_ySYbIbl8NEJ9-zA6e9c/s1600/UBplus-Eupho-7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib0xMrCWId49zgzqLGtlQwu8sJrnJ-kGn6jr-AUUrvaVXC1rQwCdOv6WMD9i_pLWlT_bweMmEEN59lsQIbbavDbO7aGVBIirD4xFOOga1Gj7GeBaZ_ySYbIbl8NEJ9-zA6e9c/s1600/UBplus-Eupho-7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I am impressed that even at maximum volume, the Eupho handles the sound pressure well, without any distortion or sonic vibrations, true to ORCHAS technology.<br />
<br />
I borrowed the X-mini KAI2 from my friend and compared to the Eupho. The KAI2 plays with boosted treble and bass but weak in details, as the louder instruments cover up the rest of the instruments. At high volumes, the KAI2 rattles and vibrates excessively to the roaring bass.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicpEhDTLj_SSzTRrmtWSQh6r6RzAYKaw9YYYamr7uKOXRAJANjL-ayYWEd4Gq9HXGvcEcsbIkV48wZSVSWCl3qrWzE21sBNu87ENc3DgeffeNUiO4lP_HL7AVYXGKTeNhBqEs/s1600/UBplus-Eupho-3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicpEhDTLj_SSzTRrmtWSQh6r6RzAYKaw9YYYamr7uKOXRAJANjL-ayYWEd4Gq9HXGvcEcsbIkV48wZSVSWCl3qrWzE21sBNu87ENc3DgeffeNUiO4lP_HL7AVYXGKTeNhBqEs/s1600/UBplus-Eupho-3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<h3>
Verdict</h3>
Small speakers are often associated with low-price and basic audio quality. UB+ has disproved that even small speakers are capable of delivering audio details. The Eupho makes a compelling close-range speaker for intimate audio enjoyment, delivering good details and bass feel. When you play your favourite music quietly on the Eupho in the tranquil night, you can truly experience the euphoria of this well-designed audio product.<br />
<br />
Currently retailing for S$89.90 at all POPULAR branches, all TwoBros outlets, and COURTS Tampines stores, with more distribution points to come. Each Eupho unit comes with free expansion casing worth S$11.90, while promotion last.<br />
<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUllYeGBp-36ESwtBvbUwUghBG3Z0RVLyJuEpk6Ioo43tA3xZKHVvkyU-CdRRk-UJh325L9dJLYr1i3qQl-bDX-vCvvgN4g1QXnOrJcRInFLkD0KXopKSkAsO1Id9lXGAT01E/s1600/UBplus-Eupho-8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUllYeGBp-36ESwtBvbUwUghBG3Z0RVLyJuEpk6Ioo43tA3xZKHVvkyU-CdRRk-UJh325L9dJLYr1i3qQl-bDX-vCvvgN4g1QXnOrJcRInFLkD0KXopKSkAsO1Id9lXGAT01E/s1600/UBplus-Eupho-8.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<h3>
Specs</h3>
Dimensions: 53 x 53 x 76mm<br />
Weight: 120g<br />
Frequency Response: 60 - 18,000 Hz<br />
Playback Time: Up to 20 hours<br />
Battery Charge Time: 3 hours<br />
Bluetooth: v4.0<br />
Package Includes: Speaker, pouch, user manual, USB cable, audio cable<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8X3jKi5gVccnHAqTiC4QYFglOR4uMw2kdl4mI_7uVYlz81dnMz71OpUGaZAtMxJ_mHqFd4r-aKTXd38IBrwybrZZxpVzOxlCPYcKhui3qnN59jvHowzGxyf3G0GtC7ScvLaI/s1600/UEplus-Eupho-Rating.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8X3jKi5gVccnHAqTiC4QYFglOR4uMw2kdl4mI_7uVYlz81dnMz71OpUGaZAtMxJ_mHqFd4r-aKTXd38IBrwybrZZxpVzOxlCPYcKhui3qnN59jvHowzGxyf3G0GtC7ScvLaI/s400/UEplus-Eupho-Rating.PNG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<h4>
Good:</h4>
- Multiple speaker pairing delivers exceptional quality for its size<br />
<br />
<h4>
Poor:</h4>
- Needs expansion accessories to deliver better audio quality<br />
<br />
<br />
Reviewed by <span class="reviewer">Chester Tan</span> <a href="http://musicphotolife.com/">http://musicphotolife.com/</a><br />
Rating: <span class="rating">4</span> of 5 (3.5 as standalone, 4 with expansion casing, 4.2 with BuddyStereo)<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Original article published in http://musicphotolife.com/ . Copyright by Chester Tan.</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09903396787688350549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36994309.post-35625714402532856772015-04-10T09:15:00.000+08:002015-04-10T14:31:00.200+08:00Sony NWZ-A15 High-Res Walkman Review<div class="hreview">
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<br />
Sony invited me to be an influencer for the Sony Walkman NWZ-A15. It took me a while to consider, because I would not advocate products if I do not find a fit to my lifestyle. And now that I have, I have found the Walkman to be a pretty awesome product.<br />
<br />
The only way for me to agree carrying a separate music device is if the device is compact. This A15 weighs next to nothing, and it supports High-Res 24-bit audio files. Not that most people can hear the difference, but it is definitely good to have, just like you would buy 4K television thought there is not much content at such high resolution. For normal compressed MP3 files, the A15 also improves to make them sound sweeter.<br />
<br />
Here are a few favourite things I like about the A15:<br />
<br />
<h3>
1. Quality Audio Processor</h3>
Every smartphone now can play music, and many could handle 24-bit audio files, so why bother to carry another dedicated music device? Because the A15 is powered by quality audio processors that some smartphones do not come with (lucky you if yours is). The A15 S-Master is an all-in-one digital-audio-converter and amplifier which is supposed to reduce noise and distortion. Then there is the DSEE HX that enhances your normal MP3 files by sweetening the treble frequency. I like how the tweak is subtle but noticeable for audio lovers.<br />
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<h3>
2. Small and Lightweight</h3>
The last thing I want to do is to lug a bulky music device. The A15 is so small and light, it weighs next to nothing, so you can conveniently bring it around without fuss.<br />
<br />
<h3>
3. SensMe Channels</h3>
SensMe scans all the songs stored in the A15 and categorises them into various mood channels. The very moment you select a channel, a random song plays immediately. At times when you have no idea what you feel like listening, SensMe is the best way to get things going.<br />
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<br />
<h3>
4. Enjoy Music Away from Smartphone</h3>
Imagine the times when you needed music but don't want a smartphone to constantly disrupt you. I am thinking during meditation, during workouts, during times when you need music but do not want to be disturbed.<br />
<br />
How about times when you wanted to play music through your wireless speaker at home or at an event but you need to keep your smartphone with you? Worst, if there are incoming calls, everyone can hear your conversation over the speakers, and music gets disrupted. And what about places prohibiting smartphones, like military camps, planes?<br />
<br />
A dedicated music player like A15 gets you through.<br />
<br />
<h3>
5. Hardware and Features</h3>
The A15 has an intelligent power on-off feature, where the device wakes up instantaneously to resume where you left off. It only goes into full shutdown if unused for several days.<br />
<br />
The A15 can last up to 50 hours per charge, so no worries about battery, especially when your smartphone battery life is ever so precious no thanks to heavy data usage.<br />
<br />
It comes with 16GB of internal storage (64GB for A17) with microSD card expansion, so you can load up all your favourite tunes at high resolution, without fear of storage issue if you were to use your smartphone as the music player.<br />
<br />
Connecting to wireless headphones and speakers is very easy via NFC and Bluetooth, which supports aptX for distortion-free audio experience.<br />
<br />
It also has built-in FM tuner if you got tired of your music collection.<br />
<br />
One thing I like - believe it or not - is that there is no touch screen! That means there is no risk of accidentally activating any functions. It really takes getting used to, as I often panic when I touched the display while handling the A15.<br />
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<a href="https://instagram.com/p/09zhbhSp6k/" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" target="_top">A photo posted by Chester Tan (@musicdiary)</a> on <time datetime="2015-04-02T08:23:24+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Apr 2, 2015 at 1:23am PDT</time></div>
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Here are some drawbacks of the A15:<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b>1. Does not support DSD</b></h3>
It might not sound like a big deal, but what it means is that the A15 cannot support multi-channel audio that are available in SACD. The quality really makes a difference compared to normal CD.<br />
<br />
<h3>
2. Not So Intuitive Menu Browsing</h3>
What annoys me mildly is that when I navigate into a sub-menu and selects something, instead of going back to the previous menu, the A15 exits the menu. I then had to re-enter the menu again.<br />
<br />
<h3>
3. Limited adjustments on graphic equalizer</h3>
Unlike the luxuries of a smartphone app, you will not be able to customise the equalizer as liberally. There are limited presets which you can apply, but I would assume you should not be too keen to alter your audio files if you are getting A15 for its unadulterated sound output.<br />
<br />
<h3>
4. Non-standard USB connection</h3>
Sony continues to keep the proprietary Walkman data cable instead of a more universal USB port. But at least it is common across the Walkman series, which means you could get a replacement relatively easy.<br />
<br />
<h3>
5. High-Res audio file availability</h3>
There aren't a lot of commercially-available 24-bit files for download. It is also not so easy to rip 24-bit SACD compared to 16-bit CD. But if you are an audio engineer, you should have no problems accessing pre-master 24-bit files for your self-indulgence.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjefvWdTS3p-1H19KPZ1TbMmVCn3Iqg7lGDl3UkCgfnY3yOqlRmWHhosDvx2Ifzp6CuAFByTEgPio6Iu5U_OOSHIPb7zsImtwWMQKLRQCv962cuFFAYghJTDOy4oZOB-PlIVYo/s1600/Sony-A15-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjefvWdTS3p-1H19KPZ1TbMmVCn3Iqg7lGDl3UkCgfnY3yOqlRmWHhosDvx2Ifzp6CuAFByTEgPio6Iu5U_OOSHIPb7zsImtwWMQKLRQCv962cuFFAYghJTDOy4oZOB-PlIVYo/s1600/Sony-A15-2.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<h3>
16-bit vs. 24-bit</h3>
Is there a significant difference? My ears tell me no. I could not significantly tell the difference, which means during a blind test, I am quite happy with either audio formats. But I do detect that 24-bit audio delivers a more natural high-frequency quality, with less distorted sibilence, and less stifled low-frequencies.<br />
<br />
Also, do bear in mind that music files that are created specifically for 24-bit enjoyment tend to be specially mastered to cater for the audiophiles. The audio encoding into a lossless format may be more stringent compared to consumer-grade audio files where people are more concerned with file size.<br />
<br />
Finally, it also depends on the type of music you listen to. Heavy rock that are already compressed to death during mastering process will not benefit from 24-bit, while recordings of acoustic instruments with purposeful sound staging will shine in a digital format without the technical inhibitions.<br />
<br />
<br />
<h3>
Verdict</h3>
The Sony NWZ-A15 is an inexpensive Walkman that can play High-Res audio in an extremely compact size, allowing you to enjoy great music separate from your smartphone. It is capable of playing music instantly from standby, via wired or Bluetooth wireless. Thanks to the expandable microSD card, I have no qualms about uploading my music files in the best audio format possible without worry of storage space.<br />
<br />
The 16GB model retails in Singapore for S$299, while the 64GB NWZ-A17 retails for S$399.<br />
<br />
I would like to thank Sony Singapore for engaging me as an influencer, where I get to keep the A15 at the end of the campaign. The campaign does not require me to write a blog post but I am more than happy to review the product in my own way without obligation.<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-version="4" style="background: #FFF; border-radius: 3px; border: 0; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: -webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width: 99.375%; width: calc(100% - 2px);">
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<a href="https://instagram.com/p/z3iK5eypwx/" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" target="_top">A photo posted by Chester Tan (@musicdiary)</a> on <time datetime="2015-03-06T01:24:56+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Mar 5, 2015 at 5:24pm PST</time></div>
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<h3>
Spec</h3>
Internal Memory: 16GB<br />
External Memory: microSD slot<br />
Bluetooth: Bluetooth® Ver 2.1+EDR1 A2DP / AVRCP / OPP<br />
NFC: Yes<br />
FM Tuner: 76.0~108.0MHz<br />
Display: 2.2" QVGA (240 x 320 Pixels) TFT color display with white LCD-backlight<br />
Power Source: Built-in Li-ion Rechargeable Battery / USB power through the USB connector of the player<br />
Battery Life: MP3 - 50 hours (*MP3 128kbps, when Bluetooth OFF). Hi-Res Audio - 30 hours (*FLAC 192kHz/24bit, when Bluetooth OFF)<br />
Recharge Time: 4 hours<br />
Sound Effects: S-Master HX / DSEE HX / Clear Audio+ / Clear Bass / Equalizer / VPT(surround) / Dynamic Normalizer<br />
Compatible Formats Music:FLAC / Apple Lossless(ALAC) / MP3 / AAC*1 / HE-AAC / WMA*2 / Linear PCM(WAV) / AIFF Movie:MPEG-4 / AVC(H.264/AVC) / Windows Media Video 9<br />
Other Functions Karaoke, Dance, Display Lyrics, Language Study, Sense Me™ Channels<br />
Dimensions: (W x H x D) Approx. 43.6 x 109 x 8.7mm<br />
Weight: 66g<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
Reviewed by <span class="reviewer">Chester Tan</span> <a href="http://musicphotolife.com/">http://musicphotolife.com/</a><br />
Rating: <span class="rating">4</span> of 5</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Original article published in http://musicphotolife.com/ . Copyright by Chester Tan.</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09903396787688350549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36994309.post-83877010878653922102015-04-09T09:24:00.000+08:002015-04-09T09:24:14.448+08:00Philips Fidelio NC1: Noise-Cancellation Headphones Review<div class="hreview">
After being thoroughly impressed with the <a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2015/03/philips-fidelio-x2-headphones-review.html" target="_blank">Philips Fidelio X2</a>, I received the Fidelio NC1 for review. It is a pair of foldable active noise-cancellation (ANC) wired on-ear headphones, and the first ANC headphones developed by Philips. The overall build is good and I have no qualms bringing it out without the hard case. The ear cushion are made of memory form, which feels comfortable against the ears without feeling too tight. The internal battery powers the active noise cancellation and you can easily charge it by plugging the micro USB cable to it. The battery that drives the ANC function lasts 30 hours.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcb2_bIGRytslY36aAHhK4d6W6udjHz-gcvja3qtLW_eraYEieiZJWzkdSalq4DRGCTkcw9mYtnP9HrXP5qF3ufTT0PzhAN6ggY7WT1_FbAR4nyEenlVegaiyQM25lsi15FqY/s1600/Philips-Fidelio-NC1-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcb2_bIGRytslY36aAHhK4d6W6udjHz-gcvja3qtLW_eraYEieiZJWzkdSalq4DRGCTkcw9mYtnP9HrXP5qF3ufTT0PzhAN6ggY7WT1_FbAR4nyEenlVegaiyQM25lsi15FqY/s1600/Philips-Fidelio-NC1-2.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I put the headphones through several devices to get a sense of what it is capable of. I would describe the NC1 sound signature - with active noise cancellation turned off - as neutral. The treble is not exceptionally clear nor too veiled, while the bass is adequately delivered though not gratifying. The mid-tones are sufficient to provide details yet not sounding muddy.<br />
<br />
When active noise cancellation is activated, the volume did not alter dramatically. The treble has opened up slightly to deliver more punch while the low-bass is also enhanced. What's missing is the upper bass, which has been suppressed by the ANC, and the NC1 is not the first ANC headphones I have experienced this. The result is that the bass range becomes narrower: you get the kick but you don't get the tonality.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxJ2oVkWQS1DwawbgxUkEezjACey1WXwHWBhXp5x42JuqXZA1gFmf5_kZIdcmMVEsMP6PX_MM-FdpgvzZaGfELoj4oLHP4Roye8vtNDras0ZTYgmvaSfb0LkY4ImqnNTeeBkw/s1600/Philips-Fidelio-NC1-3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxJ2oVkWQS1DwawbgxUkEezjACey1WXwHWBhXp5x42JuqXZA1gFmf5_kZIdcmMVEsMP6PX_MM-FdpgvzZaGfELoj4oLHP4Roye8vtNDras0ZTYgmvaSfb0LkY4ImqnNTeeBkw/s1600/Philips-Fidelio-NC1-3.JPG" height="640" width="508" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Having said that, the ANC mode is much appreciated when listening to music in noisy environment. The audio is delivered with better clarity and details which otherwise would be drowned by the ambience. This led me to deduce that the audio balancing with ANC is intended as such - to counter the effects of ambient noise. And like most other ANC headphones, the NC1 is not able to eliminate high-frequency ambient noises effectively, but one could safely assume that the music would be loud enough to drown these noises.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Conclusion</h3>
The Fidelio NC1 is not a particularly exciting headphones to listen to, with none of the big bass or bright treble output. But it looks gorgeous, is compact and feels sturdy, a vast contrast to the <a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2014/03/bose-quietcomfort-15-acoustic-noise.html" target="_blank">Bose QC15</a>. I am not convinced at how an on-ear headphones can be more effective in noise-cancellation than over-the-ear types. Neither could I recall the QC15 noise-cancelling strength to compare against the Fidelio NC1. But I would say the NC1 offers a cosier fit, and delivers audio quality that is more enjoyable to someone like me who values music details. On that point, the NC1 wins my vote as the preferred ANC headphones for audiophiles. Currently retailing in Singapore for S$499.<br />
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<br />
<h3>
Specs</h3>
Acoustic system: Closed<br />
Diaphragm: PET<br />
Magnet type: Neodymium<br />
Maximum power input: 150 mW<br />
Sensitivity: 107 dB<br />
Speaker diameter: 40 mm<br />
Frequency response: 7 - 25,000 Hz<br />
Impedance: 16 ohm<br />
Type: Dynamic<br />
Cable length: 1.2 m<br />
Connector: 3.5 mm stereo<br />
Finishing of connector: Gold plated<br />
Type of cable: Copper<br />
Accessories: aircraft plug, USB charging cable, 1.2m audio cable, travel case<br />
Weight: 191g<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Reviewed by <span class="reviewer">Chester Tan</span> <a href="http://musicphotolife.com/">http://musicphotolife.com/</a><br />
Rating: 3.8 of 5</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Original article published in http://musicphotolife.com/ . Copyright by Chester Tan.</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09903396787688350549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36994309.post-29315073323278072052015-04-07T09:01:00.000+08:002015-04-07T09:01:00.825+08:00Dell Venue 8 7000 Series: Thinnest Android Tablet Review<div class="hreview">
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After getting a sneak preview of the Dell Venue 8 7000 series during a media launch event, I received a unit for my review and assessment. This tablet is a worthy refresh since the previous Dell Venue 8 in 2013, and there are a few key features to shout about. It is:<br />
<br />
- the world's thinnest tablet at <b>6mm</b><br />
- the first tablet with <b>Intel RealSense Snapshot Depth </b>camera, which captures a depth map for every picture taken and stores the data in standard JPG.<br />
- anodized aluminum edge-to-edge 2560x1600 8.4-inch OLED display<br />
<br />
<h3>
Design</h3>
The new Venue 8 7000 series feels amazingly thin, lightweight and solid on your hand with soft edges and corners. The 8.4-inch display is maximised to the edges, resulting in generous screen size in a compact package. I have no problems holding the Venue 8 edge to edge. The screen is sharp and colours appear vibrant, with slight discolouration when viewing at an angle, a characteristic of OLED panels.<br />
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The stereo speakers are located at the bottom facing the front. Powered by <b>MaxxAudio</b>, the speakers deliver good treble clarity and volume for a tablet. I am able to tweak the equalizer to improve on the midtone and upper-bass ranges, giving the sound more warmth.<br />
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<br />
<h3>
Camera and Quality</h3>
The Venue 8 contains the most number of cameras in a single Android device - 4 to be exact. 3 are positioned at the rear for depth mapping, and 1 facing the front for normal photography. The positioning of the cameras results in some awkward handling of the Venue 8: they are strangely positioned at the lower part of the tablet, so using them at portrait mode is unfathomable. It seems Dell purposefully wanted the consumer to shoot at landscape mode, for the screen is force-oriented as such during shooting mode. To ensure I do not cover any of the 3 depth-sensing cameras, I have to hold the edges of the tablet.<br />
<br />
The camera produces lacklustre images, grainy and lacks sharpness. However, the star feature is the ability to measure the length and area from images taken with the Venue 8. I did a test by shooting a 6-inch ruler around my house, and I have to say that it is pretty accurate, though there are instances when the measurement is off.<br />
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<br />
I was not able to test distant structures since I would not be able to verify personally. On the whole, I would say the RealSense Snapshot Depth works as designed, but I would not count on it for critical use, e.g. house renovation.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Apps</h3>
The Venue 8 user interface largely follows the stock Android 4.4, and there are minimal pre-installed apps other than a few Dell-branded apps. <b>My Dell</b> app is a one-stop platform to check your system status, contact online support. <b>MaxxAudio </b>app runs persistently with notification icon. <b>McAfee Security </b>app is pre-installed with a 30-day trial upon activation. I was not impressed with the pre-installed apps that make use of the depth information, and Dell advises that more apps will be released to Venue 8 owners for download.<br />
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<br />
<h3>
Conclusion</h3>
As a tablet, the Dell Venue 8 is impressive. It is small, compact, thin, well-built, has good-sounding front-facing speakers, brilliant high-resolution display. There is also a companion Keyboard Folio of the same size where you can fold up neatly, so in that aspect, the Venue 8 pulls off as a stylish device in the business environment. The Intel RealSense Snapshot is still at its infancy, and I don't see this feature as a deal-breaker for Venue 8. Currently, the Wi-Fi version is on sale in Singapore for S$659, with an additional $50 for the Keyboard Folio.<br />
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<h3>
Venue 8 7840 Spec</h3>
Processor: Intel® Atom™ Processor Z3580 (2M Cache, up to 2.3 GHz)<br />
Operating System: Android 4.4 (Kit Kat) Wifi<br />
Video Card: Intel® HD Graphics (Imagination PowerVR G6430)<br />
Display: 8.4 inch OLED WQXGA touch with Infinity bezel edge-to-edge display<br />
Memory: 2GB LP DDR3 Memory<br />
Storage: 16GB eMMC Internal, microSD card slot supporting up to 512GB<br />
Wireless: Intel 7260 1x1ac 802.11 ac + Bluetooth 4.0<br />
Battery: 21WHr/5900mAh Battery<br />
Power Adapter: 10 Watt AC Adapter<br />
Ports: 1 x Micro-B USB2.0, 1 x Headphone and microphone combo jack<br />
Dimensions: 6 x 124.4 x 215.8mm<br />
Weight: 302g<br />
Warranty: 1 Year Collect & Return Service<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Reviewed by <span class="reviewer">Chester Tan</span> <a href="http://musicphotolife.com/">http://musicphotolife.com/</a><br />
Rating: <span class="rating">3.8</span> of 5<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Original article published in http://musicphotolife.com/ . Copyright by Chester Tan.</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09903396787688350549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36994309.post-47453956697780457142015-04-06T12:41:00.000+08:002015-04-06T12:41:00.810+08:00Music.Photo.Tech.Digest: 6 April 2015In this week's digest, I share what's happened over the past 2 weeks in my life, and what's going to happen over the next 2 weeks.<br />
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<h3>
[Music] Condolence</h3>
Singapore came to a standstill last week with the passing of our Founding Prime Minister Mr. Lee Kuan Yew. The world mourns with us, as Mr. Lee's contribution to shaping the world in the better half of the 20th century is instrumental. As a tribute, I composed a simple piano piece and shared it on social media. It turned out to be my most viral post to date, garnering over 12000 views, 500 likes, and 270 traceable shares (users with private profiles are not visible).<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=10152929773554865&pnref=story">https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=10152929773554865&pnref=story</a><br />
<br />
It's not a particularly interesting song, other than the fact that it expresses the sorrow I (and many) have on Mr. Lee's death. As a politician, Mr. Lee has his share of controversy, and like every other famous people, there are always 2 sides of a coin. People who benefited from him will like him, and people who suffered from his decisions will dislike him. Looking back at all the famous people that history documented, this has always been the case. So, to say that Mr. Lee indoctrinated Singapore is a little far-fetched, because many materials are available over the Internet. So, do your own research and decide for yourself.<br />
<br />
At the end of the day, Lee Kuan Yew is the leader responsible for implementing the policies and making them happen. From here onwards, we should work towards maintaining the good qualities of his policies while improving on those that may not appear to work for future generations. And for the latter part, Lee Kuan Yew is no longer the person responsible. Let the leaders of today forge our future, but at the same breath, we the citizens of Singapore can play a part. Stand out and help in improving our lives.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/vZfisuICFPY/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/vZfisuICFPY?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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<br />
<h3>
[Photo] Panoramic fun with OPPO N3</h3>
<br />
<a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2015/04/oppo-n3-swivel-camera-smartphone-review.html" target="_blank">OPPO N3</a> has made shooting panorama fun and convenient. No longer do I have to move my body and pan the camera, where based on my experience the output often does not justify the act of looking silly. The OPPO N3 not only makes panorama shots unobtrusive, the success rate is so much higher (apart from moving subjects).<br />
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<br />
Despite a not-so-popular brand, the OPPO is well-built and runs on a stable UI that matches the top manufacturers. It has a strong presence in Singapore, having a large flagship store and service centre at Suntec City. Tertiary students get S$50 off.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2015/04/oppo-n3-swivel-camera-smartphone-review.html" target="_blank">Read my review which I posted last week</a>.<br />
<br />
<h3>
[Tech] Sony NWZ-A15 Influencer</h3>
Sometimes I am amazed at how things happen coincidentally. At the same time when I was invited to be the Sony NWZ-A15 WALKMAN influencer, Philips provided me with the <a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2015/03/philips-fidelio-x2-headphones-review.html" target="_blank">Fidelio X2</a> High-Resolution Headphones. The Sony A15 supports High-Definition audio - 24-bit 192kHz, and so does the Philips Fidelio X2. And that makes them an awesome pair-up. The <a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2015/03/philips-fidelio-x2-headphones-review.html" target="_blank">Fidelio X2 review</a> is already up - and I love it. The Sony A15 review write-up will be published this week.<br />
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<h3>
[Tech] UB+ Eupho</h3>
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UB+ is a new Singapore company and its first product is EUPHO, a portable Bluetooth speaker with accessories to enhance the sound. I went to their office to pick up a pair of speakers which supports Buddy Stereo, where you can daisy-chain the speakers for better stereo separation. More opinions will be shared in my proper review.<br />
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<h3>
[Tech] Philips Fidelio NC1</h3>
After finishing the <a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2015/03/philips-fidelio-x2-headphones-review.html" target="_blank">Fidelio X2</a> review, Philips passed me the Fidelio NC1, the first noise cancelling headphones. It's lightweight, foldable, and comes with a hard case for storage. I am pampered by the X2 headphones, so the NC1 did not meet my expectations when I first tried it. But I set it aside for a while and when I resumed my audition, I find it generally comfortable. Reviews out soon.<br />
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<h3>
[Tech] Does Android Wear make me spend less time with my smartphone?</h3>
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The short answer is no. I was very surprised with the outcome after wearing Android Wear watch for over 2 months. One primary reason for not spending less time is the manner of which the Android Wear presents the notification. You see, the Android Wear notification is so tightly-coupled with the Android phone that if I dismiss the watch notification, the phone notification disappears too. Yet, I want to keep the notifications so that I can visit them later instead of removing them completely. The problem is that as new notification comes in, the existing notification remains present, and the result is that I get more and more notifications stacked on the watch.<br />
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-version="4" style="background: #FFF; border-radius: 3px; border: 0; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: -webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width: 99.375%; width: calc(100% - 2px);">
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<a href="https://instagram.com/p/1CVIEwyp6h/" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_top">Late breakfast. Mustache Watch Face by Hoodie Studio. #Sony #SmartWatch #SW3 #SWR50 #androidwear #Singapore #SG50 #watchface #wotd #watch #blogger</a></div>
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A photo posted by Chester Tan (@musicdiary) on <time datetime="2015-04-04T02:34:00+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Apr 3, 2015 at 7:34pm PDT</time></div>
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On the phone, because of the large screen, you may be able to handle multiple notifications from a single screen. But on the watch, you have to flip multiple notification cards to read them through. The frustrating part is that they continue to build up if you choose to keep them without dismissing them, yet if you dismiss them, they notification will disappear from your phone and you will forget about them the next time you check your phone.<br />
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The result? I am forced to turn on the phone to act on these notifications before I forget, else my watch notifications will get cluttered.<br />
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A simple solution is to be able to dismiss notifications only on the watch but keep it on the phone. That way, I will be able to remove those notifications I do not need on the watch but want to be kept on the phone for action the next time I touch the phone. I also hope to see more customised settings to improve the notification experience, like keeping the message preview longer.<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Article written by Chester Tan <a href="http://musicphotolife.com/">http://musicphotolife.com/</a></span></i><div class="blogger-post-footer">Original article published in http://musicphotolife.com/ . Copyright by Chester Tan.</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09903396787688350549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36994309.post-7631740375016524642015-04-03T09:34:00.004+08:002015-04-03T09:34:53.593+08:00OPPO N3: Swivel Camera Smartphone Review<div class="hreview">
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While the <a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2015/01/oppo-r5-review-beauty-but-not-beast.html" target="_blank">OPPO R5</a> is the thinnest smartphone in the world, the OPPO N3 tips to the other end of the scale, weighing 192g and 8.7mm thick, which is almost twice the thickness of R5 (4.85mm).<br />
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The phone does feel clumsy to use, not just because of the overall size, but also the unfamiliar port and button placements. With the power button located at the left side of the phone, I am somewhat prone to depress it more frequently (I use my phone with my left hand). The headset jack, located at the top right side, and the USB port, located at the bottom left, gets in the way if you intend to slip the phone in a carry case while plugged in. The swivel camera module, while immensely useful, often gets accidentally swiveled out of place when carrying in your pocket, which may be an irritant to the mildly-OCD in me.<br />
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The fingerprint scanner positioned at the back panel of the phone is also a physical button which you could press to turn on the screen. But it only works if you configure to unlock the phone with fingerprint. OPPO could have saved a hardware button by making the fingerprint button as the power button.<br />
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The N3 may have a sturdy frame to hold the smartphone together, but the white colour unit, with the back panel made of plastic, appears to be susceptible to discolouration and stains.<br />
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However, I realised I do enjoy using the phone overall, due to the following benefits.<br />
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<h3>
Rotating 16MP Camera</h3>
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One of the best things that the N3 can offer is the motorized rotating camera. Taking 206-degree panorama photos is never easier and fun.<br />
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Besides the horizontal panorama, I can now do vertical panorama.<br />
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Shooting upwards will never require back-breaking positions.<br />
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The 16MP Sony BSI sensor produce detailed photos under good lighting. The Ultra HD mode creates images up to 64MP, for pixel-lovers.<br />
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When ISO increases, the images become less detailed as image noises get removed but colour tones remain faithful.<br />
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The swivel camera also lets me capture shots in odd angles without breaking my back. You can adjust the camera rotation by sliding your finger on the fingerprint button.<br />
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<a href="https://instagram.com/p/0ZBihHSp74/" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_top">Reviewing the Oppo N3, undoubtedly the easier unobtrusive way to shoot. Tertiary students get $50 off retail price at flagship store in Suntec City. #review #tech #oppoN3 #opposingapore @opposingapore #promotion #offer #Singapore #SG50 #opposg Made with @nocrop_rc #rcnocrop</a></div>
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A photo posted by Chester Tan (@musicdiary) on <time datetime="2015-03-19T01:33:59+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Mar 18, 2015 at 6:33pm PDT</time></div>
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Check out the depth of field.<br />
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Just like the OPPO R5, the Macro mode on the N3 does a digital crop so that you do not go too near to the subject to capture the macro and cause perspective distortion. Naturally, it does not offer the same level of details as a DSLR but the image is highly usable for non-professionals.<br />
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<h3>
Fingerprint Unlock</h3>
I also like that even when you may have enabled the fingerprint unlock feature, you can also unlock using pattern from the lockscreen. This, coupled with screen-off gestures (double tap to wake screen) means it is more intuitive to unlock the N3 without lifting the phone. On other brands, you would need to separately select the alternate unlock method on the lockscreen before the pattern grid appears for you to unlock.<br />
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Speaking of unlocking with fingerprint, placing the scanner at the back of the N3 is just so natural. I can conveniently unlock the device with just one hand, unlike all other devices in the market when you need to unlock with 2 hands (one to hold the phone, the other to place on the scanner to unlock).<br />
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<h3>
Touchscreen Works with Glove and Wet Fingers</h3>
The touch screen is also responsive even when wearing gloves and even when your finger or the screen is wet! That is a great feature, something that many phones will falter under these conditions.<br />
<br />
<br />
<h3>
Dual SIM</h3>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj67E9IcDfbacg3V0qCI5ps-ZeL6-VwlAuscniu8RoGmykkuvIITqUG9FBbvdE-u3MBiqqBb91fkQf09Z4ic3-1HiPfSNMBR812kcc5Of6tBv7r6vbRyKwfYbMgD8y8ao01Lew/s1600/OPPO-N3-dualSIM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj67E9IcDfbacg3V0qCI5ps-ZeL6-VwlAuscniu8RoGmykkuvIITqUG9FBbvdE-u3MBiqqBb91fkQf09Z4ic3-1HiPfSNMBR812kcc5Of6tBv7r6vbRyKwfYbMgD8y8ao01Lew/s1600/OPPO-N3-dualSIM.jpg" height="512" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
For consumers who require dual SIM, the N3's SIM tray supports one micro SIM and one nano SIM. Both SIMs are on active standby, so you can actively select either SIMs to make calls or send SMS. You can also nominate one SIM as 4G data but not both. If you do not require dual SIM, the other SIM slot may be replaced with microSD card.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyr7rLx3wtQPBOmYeppNfUeb7qU5KhYVPabWdoZo6Z-WuObHv8RBrE6axGZzd_eYqUNQcogi0Xo5HbIlWKoiVC1LDuyAgsOeZO6mfgGbNM1FDkhhwXB6tofXlsSf39k27bKHc/s1600/OPPO-N3-SIM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyr7rLx3wtQPBOmYeppNfUeb7qU5KhYVPabWdoZo6Z-WuObHv8RBrE6axGZzd_eYqUNQcogi0Xo5HbIlWKoiVC1LDuyAgsOeZO6mfgGbNM1FDkhhwXB6tofXlsSf39k27bKHc/s1600/OPPO-N3-SIM.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />
<h3>
Audio</h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnIwCU-7IB0BXPMmsejqcRRYmzK6c9upzW5gpr5bVdN3gClDunRPnp3Ta1pJgmGcZ5PV_owIbGBlAh-DEbRzMn4tn62-x2XPtAmFgIzIZa7Dn2vsndftUr-XXlLNLH0Q42lOA/s1600/OPPO-N3-MaxxAudio.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnIwCU-7IB0BXPMmsejqcRRYmzK6c9upzW5gpr5bVdN3gClDunRPnp3Ta1pJgmGcZ5PV_owIbGBlAh-DEbRzMn4tn62-x2XPtAmFgIzIZa7Dn2vsndftUr-XXlLNLH0Q42lOA/s1600/OPPO-N3-MaxxAudio.jpg" height="512" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
The audio processor is powered by MaxxAudio, which seems to be a popular choice of recent months by Android manufacturers. Besides the preset audio settings which bring out the best of each sound character, you can customise the setting. I find the warm sound of the N3 pleasing to the ears: at high volumes, the N3 audio does not come across as noisy. The speaker is positioned at the bottom panel instead of the back, so the sound is better channelled to the ears.<br />
<br />
<br />
<h3>
Rapid Charger</h3>
And finally, I am pampered by the VOOC rapid charger that fills the battery up in just an hour. With it, I could charge the phone only when I need to, instead of having to plan my charge 2 hours in advance prior to going out. Such short charge bursts will extend the battery life span because you do not have to do full charge cycles.<br />
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<br />
<h3>
O-Click 2.0</h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTVIhvozwNEP6In9r87-x7ZQY4Tj8K-Q_8x3PPcmJl5jQs4SHRr5C6-_x91HJkKgdGJbR08GzzJFAk457wgbDc2SWsrp1A7pBG5R11hRPKp2Ro_mMheHxXwUcO_Tztb2DM5Q4/s1600/OPPO-N3-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTVIhvozwNEP6In9r87-x7ZQY4Tj8K-Q_8x3PPcmJl5jQs4SHRr5C6-_x91HJkKgdGJbR08GzzJFAk457wgbDc2SWsrp1A7pBG5R11hRPKp2Ro_mMheHxXwUcO_Tztb2DM5Q4/s1600/OPPO-N3-2.JPG" height="425" width="640" /></a></div>
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The included O-Click accessory is not particularly useful for me, but to the rest of you, you can use this Bluetooth device to swivel the camera lens, trigger shutter, control music, locate your phone, answer phone calls. The built is rather flimsy, and the large button surface means it is easily depressed if you put the O-Click in your pocket together with other stuff.<br />
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<br />
<br />
<h3>
Notification Light</h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBGHd1PR-kZ-wKV-aGiagmyvux5nqKUfbXMhlqKkOneTX6isOeLUKSafFwhK9UTi2ITnJlRd1rIAP5VxJqdPHUs9FDYvoR6EAA9nWTLQC2wHcl3EPWGn0amj8MMD0tMyUtWA8/s1600/OPPO-N3-4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBGHd1PR-kZ-wKV-aGiagmyvux5nqKUfbXMhlqKkOneTX6isOeLUKSafFwhK9UTi2ITnJlRd1rIAP5VxJqdPHUs9FDYvoR6EAA9nWTLQC2wHcl3EPWGn0amj8MMD0tMyUtWA8/s1600/OPPO-N3-4.JPG" height="425" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
The notification light at the bottom of the phone, as well as the hollow arc underside, are rather unique design elements, where it allows the light glow to be more visible. I'd wish I could disable the indicator from lighting up when charging is complete.<br />
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<h3>
Conclusion</h3>
At S$849, the OPPO N3 has a long list of unique features that no other smartphones have. I find the rotating camera immensely beneficial for photo-snappers. Notably, the N3 comes with higher hardware configuration of 32GB internal memory and 3000mAh battery capacity, higher than most smartphones in the market.<br />
<br />
Tertiary students in Singapore can enjoy S$50 off when they produce their student pass and purchase at the OPPO flagship store at Suntec City.<br />
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<br />
<h3>
Specs</h3>
OS: ColorOS 2.0, based on Android 4.4<br />
Processor: 2.3GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon 801 (MSM8974AA)<br />
RAM: 2GB<br />
Storage: 32 GB<br />
Battery: 3000 mAh Li-Polymer battery with Rapid Charge<br />
Display: 5.5-inch 1080x1920 TFT 16million colours<br />
Weight: 192g<br />
Camera: 16MP 1/2.3" BSI sensor, 16-megapixel OmniVision OV16825 f/2.2 BSI sensor<br />
Motorized 206-degree rotating Schneider Kreuznach lens, dual LED flash<br />
Network (International): GSM850/900/1800/1900, WCDMA850/900/1900/2100, LTE Bands 1/3/7/20/TD-40<br />
Hardware: Micro USB, Bluetooth 4.0, Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n/ac, Wi-Fi Direct, Wi-Fi Display, GPS, NFC, OTG<br />
SIM1: Micro SIM<br />
SIM2: Nano-SIM or microSD<br />
Color: White<br />
Dimensions: 161.2 × 77 × 8.7 mm<br />
Weight: 192g<br />
In the box: OPPO N3, In-ear type earphones, Micro USB cable, VOOC Flash Charger mini, SIM ejector tool, O-Click 2.0<br />
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<br />
Reviewed by <span class="reviewer">Chester Tan</span> <a href="http://musicphotolife.com/">http://musicphotolife.com</a><br />
Rating: <span class="rating">4</span> of 5</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Original article published in http://musicphotolife.com/ . Copyright by Chester Tan.</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09903396787688350549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36994309.post-56690602768544882762015-03-26T08:08:00.000+08:002015-03-27T12:50:24.598+08:00Condolence (慰问) - a piano composition inspired by Mr. Lee Kuan Yew's Passing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAnOSFGqD8MY5omxEwTGrux7NUN5FSaDVs71_ZWCPKx5HOM-yEJJkEYkdIP-XXACFVvcfM1OJk4eCrfyeR39qWsIM5qahLRszs6DymzzqznyEES38lVVzrBic07HBIY-x6Obg/s1600/LKY-SGmap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAnOSFGqD8MY5omxEwTGrux7NUN5FSaDVs71_ZWCPKx5HOM-yEJJkEYkdIP-XXACFVvcfM1OJk4eCrfyeR39qWsIM5qahLRszs6DymzzqznyEES38lVVzrBic07HBIY-x6Obg/s1600/LKY-SGmap.jpg" height="167" width="320" /></a></div>
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After 3 days of Mr. Lee Kuan Yew's passing, I finally mustered my inspiration, sat at the piano, and played a single-take improvisational recording of a composition in memory of Mr. Lee.<br />
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I called the composition "Condolence(慰问)". It is a quiet piece of music that speaks of my condolence to all who are pained by the loss of Mr. Lee. I hope that during this period of mourning, people will be comforted as they listen to this soothing soundtrack.<br />
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You may listen or download (right-click, "save link") the full song at <a href="http://chestertan.com/musicphotolife/Condolence(LKY).mp3">http://chestertan.com/musicphotolife/Condolence(LKY).mp3</a><br />
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I have also posted a video at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=10152929773554865&pnref=story">https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=10152929773554865&pnref=story</a> for your ease of sharing over Facebook.<br />
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And also on YouTube. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vZfisuICFPY">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vZfisuICFPY</a><br />
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Feel free to download and use the composition for your photo or video tributes to Mr. Lee. Let me know so that I can share your creations too.<br />
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#thankyouLKY #LKY #Singapore #SG50 #rememberingLKY #LeeKuanYew #songforLKY #pianomusic<div class="blogger-post-footer">Original article published in http://musicphotolife.com/ . Copyright by Chester Tan.</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09903396787688350549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36994309.post-57876305848925340072015-03-23T10:49:00.001+08:002015-03-31T16:58:57.687+08:00Remembering Lee Kuan Yew (1923 - 2015)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBaxT5dcpJ8Li4Iq2lV4TdxFpA16cy4wOiVjFEDjCnH16-gGV75PZzVEObKzAsFOdyVIAU51Dq5r6O_B7R6sFhPHGs49QagwHndx1-Dn3NhxH8qY_M-m6wRetPvBmGpOLlt-g/s1600/ThankYouLKY.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBaxT5dcpJ8Li4Iq2lV4TdxFpA16cy4wOiVjFEDjCnH16-gGV75PZzVEObKzAsFOdyVIAU51Dq5r6O_B7R6sFhPHGs49QagwHndx1-Dn3NhxH8qY_M-m6wRetPvBmGpOLlt-g/s1600/ThankYouLKY.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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There are no words to describe his contribution to the nation, to the region, and to the world. <br />
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There is no need to write in length to justify his immense accomplishments.<br />
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There is sorrow on his passing, but there is also celebration of his legacy.<br />
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He is responsible for our past 50 years. Now, we shall be responsible for our next 50.<br />
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<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-version="4" style="background: #FFF; border-radius: 3px; border: 0; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: -webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width: 99.375%; width: calc(100% - 2px);">
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<div style="background: #F8F8F8; line-height: 0; margin-top: 40px; padding: 50% 0; text-align: center; width: 100%;">
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<a href="https://instagram.com/p/0jVVO1Sp82/" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_top">#thankyouLKY There are no words to describe his immense contribution to the nation, to the region, and to the world. There is no need to write in length to justify his accomplishments. There is sorrow on his passing, but there is also celebration of his legacy. He is responsible for our past 50 years. Now, we shall be responsible for our next 50. #RIPLKY #LeeKuanYew #rememberingLKY www.rememberingleekuanyew.sg ♫ Music: Falling Leaves @pianospa #pianospa2 #tribute #Singapore #SG50 #video #instavideo #Singaporemusic #sgmusic Images reposted from @leehsienloong @xiaxue @multifolds @friedricebucket @aikbengchia</a></div>
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A video posted by Chester Tan (@musicdiary) on <time datetime="2015-03-23T01:39:20+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Mar 22, 2015 at 6:39pm PDT</time></div>
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<script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Article written by Chester Tan <a href="http://musicphotolife.com/">http://musicphotolife.com/</a></span></i><div class="blogger-post-footer">Original article published in http://musicphotolife.com/ . Copyright by Chester Tan.</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09903396787688350549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36994309.post-49680100779852013212015-03-21T23:01:00.000+08:002015-03-26T10:55:43.326+08:00Music.Photo.Tech.Digest: 21 Mar 2015In this week's digest, I will share about my previous experience as a ballet pianist, about shooting panorama photos, about upgrading your router, as well as a product launch event. To end off, I will discuss about the blogger engagement issue Xiaxue championed.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj9M1aSCrtSP-D1nF81bD7L5JUXlcacpwS5aqaSdH3yu219AhKTQsyv8FlJzCKUxa1cBs9_9c-omHe2oyiYBhivIP2oWJUgOGvZ5QXKCOOEhL88FeIUDwgiJ7m5mitOto0qH4/s1600/Philips-Fidelio-X2-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj9M1aSCrtSP-D1nF81bD7L5JUXlcacpwS5aqaSdH3yu219AhKTQsyv8FlJzCKUxa1cBs9_9c-omHe2oyiYBhivIP2oWJUgOGvZ5QXKCOOEhL88FeIUDwgiJ7m5mitOto0qH4/s1600/Philips-Fidelio-X2-2.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<h3>
[Music] No More Ballet Exams Pianist</h3>
This is the first year since decades that I did not play for RAD ballet exams. While it is a relief on my part (it felt like I took exams myself), a little part of my life has faded into history.<br />
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Over the years of growing up, I picked up new skills, made new friends. Then as I moved on, I let go of some priorities and embraced new ones. Playing for ballet classes has been a part of my life since 1993. In fact, it is one of the most prominent activities of my growing years.<br />
<br />
To say I miss it much is an overstatement. Over the years, I have gained other priorities to take care of, and have been trying to relinquish the job <a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2010/04/ballet-pianist-again-2010.html" target="_blank">for the longest time</a>. So in a way I am glad that I have laid the responsibility to rest. I appreciate the years of playing for all the ballet teachers and for the students, many of whom I literally watched them grow up.<br />
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<h3>
[Photo] Panorama Photos Made Easy</h3>
<div>
Currently reviewing the OPPO N3, and I have to say, I have never enjoyed shooting panorama as much before. In the past, panorama photos require steady hands and a laborious panning movement which reaps inconsistent results due to the speed of the panning and the steadiness of the hand.<br />
<br />
OPPO N3 has a motorised swivel camera that does the job. All you have to do is to hold steady the phone. Check these photos below.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIkur3t-1VWPEWE0vOnTZIt-TDFbKBitPsNgwTp_yoQl7JMMspaXs4VrG7x5ehg65Pl6PFumQoSN4L4sn_TZ5z9Kxl5zX56cmjzBU2V6kfUjts9INzI7etHz0m4niuWNZTDlk/s1600/IMG20150319100209.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIkur3t-1VWPEWE0vOnTZIt-TDFbKBitPsNgwTp_yoQl7JMMspaXs4VrG7x5ehg65Pl6PFumQoSN4L4sn_TZ5z9Kxl5zX56cmjzBU2V6kfUjts9INzI7etHz0m4niuWNZTDlk/s1600/IMG20150319100209.jpg" height="116" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKZ4mHkKGKXWMGXTE49L4ZvjEwhU5niLbcR5SrHeT598v6ZjFqxaD43Zj8X9tRQ12pyw3iLbeOkMc9zxW9FHi2wa5Aess4xhybFroCneiaDY-Tk3XzBUp_aEI_4s4u2AmheBk/s1600/IMG20150319133608.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKZ4mHkKGKXWMGXTE49L4ZvjEwhU5niLbcR5SrHeT598v6ZjFqxaD43Zj8X9tRQ12pyw3iLbeOkMc9zxW9FHi2wa5Aess4xhybFroCneiaDY-Tk3XzBUp_aEI_4s4u2AmheBk/s1600/IMG20150319133608.jpg" height="116" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhyphenhyphenfGbzIcfQfw9LuY6if2MmVyuqIGyQjnD8PGAksxZeDKDv-5BYdWSf-7zOTZ9yhdKSyfxBUFmF0586qy4TSu8YmfvPVgnMeXucC3Ny-Tz0MtaIBZ0-ITlly_RYEHztgliSb8/s1600/IMG20150320180257.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhyphenhyphenfGbzIcfQfw9LuY6if2MmVyuqIGyQjnD8PGAksxZeDKDv-5BYdWSf-7zOTZ9yhdKSyfxBUFmF0586qy4TSu8YmfvPVgnMeXucC3Ny-Tz0MtaIBZ0-ITlly_RYEHztgliSb8/s1600/IMG20150320180257.jpg" height="194" width="640" /></a></div>
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Some of the objects (especially when they are moving) are not perfectly stitched, and that cannot be helped.<br />
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Stick around my blog for my full review of the OPPO N3. Join my <a href="http://fb.com/musicphotolife" target="_blank">Facebook page</a>, <a href="http://twitter.com/musicdiary" target="_blank">Twitter</a> or <a href="http://instagram.com/musicdiary" target="_blank">Instagram</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkI5UtC3ZzqkVuBvFpNll1U9XaPdLPq6mD9vBOIUoo9RqIrqAzHqB0FAd41KRkstJ7izCofBz-V7rRrtTWWbe8869CBA-_FlrCV0uLaf1HgvaCbLuvOXjsCXw1lui3BcnD4rs/s1600/OPPO-N3-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkI5UtC3ZzqkVuBvFpNll1U9XaPdLPq6mD9vBOIUoo9RqIrqAzHqB0FAd41KRkstJ7izCofBz-V7rRrtTWWbe8869CBA-_FlrCV0uLaf1HgvaCbLuvOXjsCXw1lui3BcnD4rs/s1600/OPPO-N3-1.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<h3>
[Tech] High-end router: is it necessary?</h3>
The review of the new D-Link <a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2015/03/upgrade-to-new-wi-fi-ac3200-technology.html" target="_blank">DIR-890L</a> AC3200 router made me read up and update myself on the Wi-Fi technology. It was like yesterday - 2013 to be exact - when I knew of the latest "AC" standard, but I felt there was no need to get the new standard. Fast forward to 1 over year later, is it time to go for AC router? The answer is "Yes" if you have devices that support 802.11ac, so that you can make use of the faster bandwidth of up to 433Mbps per stream - more if your device support muliti-streams. In comparison, N routers support up to 150Mbps per stream. Go read my <a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2015/03/upgrade-to-new-wi-fi-ac3200-technology.html" target="_blank">DIR-890L review</a> for more write -up on the AC3200 benefits.<br />
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<h3>
[Tech] Dell Venue 8 Singapore Launch</h3>
On 10 Mar, I attended the media launch of the Dell Venue 8 Android tablet. It is:<br />
- the world's thinnest tablet at 6mm<br />
- first tablet with Intel RealSense Snapshot Depth camera, which captures a depth map for every picture taken<br />
- anodized aluminum edge-to-edge 2560x1600 8.4-inch OLED display.<br />
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<a href="https://instagram.com/p/0C3FhAyp9v/" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_top">Thinnest Android tablet in the world. Dell Venue 8 7000 series. #event #Singapore #launch #tablet #Android #dell #venue8</a></div>
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A photo posted by Chester Tan (@musicdiary) on <time datetime="2015-03-10T10:59:21+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Mar 10, 2015 at 3:59am PDT</time></div>
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Comes with 4 camera modules, 3 rear for RealSense and 1 front for selfie, the Venue 8 is one unconventional design. The cameras are located at the lower part of the tablet. Running what appears to be stock Android (4.4.4 out of the box, 5.0 ready for update) without much skinning, the Venue 8 is pretty much still a work-in-progress. Many apps that make use of the Intel RealSense are slated only for release over the next few months.<br />
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<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-version="4" style="background: #FFF; border-radius: 3px; border: 0; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: -webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width: 99.375%; width: calc(100% - 2px);">
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<a href="https://instagram.com/p/0DFr48yp_L/" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_top">Dell Venue 8 has the most number of cameras in a tablet. 3 on the rear to capture 3D info, and 1 in front. #intel #realsense #tablet #Android #dell #venue8 #Singapore #launch</a></div>
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A photo posted by Chester Tan (@musicdiary) on <time datetime="2015-03-10T13:06:55+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Mar 10, 2015 at 6:06am PDT</time></div>
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Dell has a good history of building solid Venue-branded devices. The first <a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2011/07/dell-venue-android-phone-review.html" target="_blank">4-inch Dell Venue</a> smartphone in 2011 was made of awesome materials. But Dell stopped short of developing the brand, until a few years later. I could recall the time I reviewed the largest smartphone in 2011 - the <a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2011/07/dell-streak-my-favourite-5-inch.html" target="_blank">Dell Streak</a> - and the first landscape-oriented smartphone. It was a bold move, just like when Nokia released N-Gage.<br />
<br />
Now with Venue 8, Dell is back and continues the great legacy of spectacular product quality. If you want an Android tablet, and you want it light and thin, and with ultra-high resolution, as well as a non-bloated UI, you will like Venue 8. Now selling at S$659 for Wi-Fi version. I will comment more on the whole user interface and experience when I get a review unit.<br />
<br />
Specs Highlight:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Processor: Intel Atom Z3580 (2.3GHz quad core)</li>
<li>OS: Android 4.4, upgradeable to 5.0</li>
<li>Memory: 2GB LPDDR3</li>
<li>Video: HD Graphics (Imagination PowerVR G6430)</li>
<li>Display: 8.4-inch OLED 2560x1600</li>
<li>Power: 5900mAh / 21 WHr</li>
<li>Wireless: 802.11ac 1x1 WiFi</li>
<li>Bluetooth: 4.0</li>
<li>Size: 6 x 124.4 x 215.8 mm</li>
</ul>
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<br />
<br />
<h3>
[Blog] The Blog Industry: Shaken, not Stirred</h3>
Xiaxue (Wendy Cheng) has shaken the blogging industry with her latest exposé that Gushcloud's social media campaign with SingTel asks blogger-influencers to bad-mouth the competitors purposely as a strategy.<br />
<br />
Some bloggers are kind of worried that it will affect negatively on the industry resulting in reduced number of assignments. They also suggested some form of an accreditation or licensing process to bring some form of control and assurance to companies who wish to engage bloggers.<br />
<br />
My view that it will not work unless it comes from the regulatory (i.e. government). Take a look at some of the older industries like photography and music. You could form an association of sorts, but ultimately, whether practitioners choose to join or not, they can still get jobs - unless the association grows into a formidable platform that provides more benefits to members than non-member.<br />
<br />
To a large extent, this fiasco does not affect me, because firstly, I do not blog for financial gains at all, as I captured on the newspaper below:<br />
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-version="4" style="background: #FFF; border-radius: 3px; border: 0; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: -webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width: 99.375%; width: calc(100% - 2px);">
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<a href="https://instagram.com/p/oFMS2_yp8h/" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_top">Straits Times published an excerpt of my blog post regarding paid blogging. #Singapore #newspaper #blog musicphotolife.com</a></div>
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A photo posted by Chester Tan (@musicdiary) on <time datetime="2014-05-17T02:26:25+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">May 16, 2014 at 7:26pm PDT</time></div>
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At the end of the day, the companies that engage bloggers must be fully aware of what they are getting into. If they are looking for exposure, by all means, pay for those bloggers who have lots of followers, doesn't matter what they write or what integrity they have. If they are looking for effectiveness, then they would have to implement some form or monitoring to track the conversion rates (e.g. clicking likes do not translate to successful sales).<br />
<br />
<br />
Similarly, influencers should not just accept any assignments or endorsements without considering them as a whole package. For instance, if a blogger has just finished a campaign for competitor A, he or she should not accept another campaign from direct competitor B, even though there is no exclusivity agreement. The blogger should think about the consequence: his or her followers would spot that he or she was saying good about A last time, but now is saying good about B.<br />
<br />
But frankly, does it really even matter? Maybe not, perhaps that is because the followers don't even care about the products from competitor A or B. The followers are probably only interested in the pretty photos posted by the blogger.<br />
<br />
As a social media influencer, you have to work on your persona and stick to that. There are many bloggers I know who does that and are hugely successful because the engagement companies can see their persona and how it fits very well to their campaign. I find these bloggers deliver the most effective campaigns, despite not having as many followers or likes than others.<br />
<br />
Am I an effective influencer? I think I am. I get a lot of friends and colleagues asking me for opinions. As much as I would like to help them, I am limited by the products I review. Also, my highly-objective nature prevents me from casually endorse the products I review (my reputation is at stake!), unless I really really feel strongly for them.<br />
<br />
And when the people called me up to tell me how they love the products I recommend to them, I know that I have done my job as an influencer.<br />
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<br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Article written by Chester Tan <a href="http://chestertan.com/">http://chestertan.com/</a></span></i><div class="blogger-post-footer">Original article published in http://musicphotolife.com/ . Copyright by Chester Tan.</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09903396787688350549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36994309.post-80634595087885281072015-03-20T01:38:00.002+08:002015-03-20T01:38:43.994+08:00Upgrade to the new Wi-Fi AC3200 Technology: D-Link DIR-890L Wi-Fi RouterWhen I received news that the D-Link DIR-890L is selling for <b>S$339</b> instead of the recommended retail price is S$399 at the IT Show (ending 22 Mar 2015), I knew I had to write this review and publish real quick so that you can read and decide whether to buy one at such a fantastic offer.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyaeXn2WH_QGN5VVWpbGfEp4wp03E-z233Xzdhu8rmVYaQfPFgNKZcSwphUFSkFbPj-QfQqR9DfdaRgSZg2p5Msrw__auVtyopA-QS22dxMobH4CsLg7KeuMmxF1H7iL-AS2s/s1600/D-Link-DIR890L-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyaeXn2WH_QGN5VVWpbGfEp4wp03E-z233Xzdhu8rmVYaQfPFgNKZcSwphUFSkFbPj-QfQqR9DfdaRgSZg2p5Msrw__auVtyopA-QS22dxMobH4CsLg7KeuMmxF1H7iL-AS2s/s1600/D-Link-DIR890L-2.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<h3>
About AC3200</h3>
First of all, a little update on Wi-Fi technology. For many years, the versions of Wi-Fi protocols are denoted by 802.11 followed by an alphabet. The latest wireless standard commonly used on consumer routers is "AC", and has been around since 2013. In recent years, new routers have been beefed up by incorporating more "bands" to allow multiple streams of Wi-Fi connectivity, consequentially improving bandwidth. Whenever you see "AC3200", it means there is one "N" band and 2 "AC" bands, where the "N" band can support up to 600Mbps and the "AC" band can deliver 1300Mbps (433MHz x 3 streams). If you add them up, you get 3200Mbps. To go more into the technicalities, the AC standard can only connect in 5GHz band, whereas the N standard can work in both 2.4GHz and 5GHz. 2.4GHz band is the band used by the older Wi-Fi standard. So you can imagine how congested this band has been. This is one of the causes of poor Wi-Fi performance.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLaUgesukonwx8sxzYSD8Lo3g82OX96VNRN5jCHApGwaIiWbUNFENj2e6taELktBdBZAEGPez5cnnHyE5U9Iz6NFwgbd2HvPGO69inyTA8PiXzT6RvvVlRhusqD3lnECu67SM/s1600/Wi-Fi-24GHz.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLaUgesukonwx8sxzYSD8Lo3g82OX96VNRN5jCHApGwaIiWbUNFENj2e6taELktBdBZAEGPez5cnnHyE5U9Iz6NFwgbd2HvPGO69inyTA8PiXzT6RvvVlRhusqD3lnECu67SM/s1600/Wi-Fi-24GHz.jpg" height="640" width="449" /></a></div>
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Compare the number of 2.4GHz routers (above) compared to the 5GHz routers (below).<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPSF2SW5oqQWS5uU0vJFoeCZ0jzEDgcOnJ36R-dGF9lcEC4lOQPr7K4URZF9ye7cz0WEHZheyuNwJFIhVqAkZj6OC_s-TLBoQj3zGPZot8VC6ZxafxpJ0kECHnHNWHFUHD0go/s1600/Wi-Fi-5GHz.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPSF2SW5oqQWS5uU0vJFoeCZ0jzEDgcOnJ36R-dGF9lcEC4lOQPr7K4URZF9ye7cz0WEHZheyuNwJFIhVqAkZj6OC_s-TLBoQj3zGPZot8VC6ZxafxpJ0kECHnHNWHFUHD0go/s1600/Wi-Fi-5GHz.jpg" height="640" width="446" /></a></div>
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<br />
The other cause of poor Wi-Fi performance is the number of devices connected to the router. Do you know that all routers can only send and receive data to one device at a time? So if you have 3 devices connected to the same Wi-Fi band, the router will alternate the data transmission across the 3 devices. This doesn't seem to have any issues years ago when most of us only have 1 or 2 wireless devices at home. Today, we could have as many as 10, from smartphones to tablets to laptops and even home security systems. <br />
<br />
Of course, the other common reasons for poor performance is the wireless coverage. The further you are from the router, the slower it gets. In many cases, due to solid objects like walls and doors, you get dropped signals.<br />
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Finally, the poor Wi-Fi performance could be due to the device which you are using. Not all devices are built equal. To achieve the maximum bandwidth speeds advertised for any router, the device must support multiple streams, denoted by 2 numbers with an "X" (e.g. 2x2, 4x4). Regarding this information, unfortunately, most product spec sheets leave them out. Nonetheless, you can assume that most devices could only support at most 2 streams.<br />
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Which brings us to the D-Link DIR-890L.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixEZnRhdc9hUTClmishyRl-s-L9_-TwwHPfWQrt-ZZIOcX5zTr65x9mSpgF2oUEdF59zlyIUhOXHXL6_NKnfILzSiaB3nCye4bhMrM-bWSsRWwWosLvLSghRcvNPSQ3_CSTIA/s1600/D-Link-DIR890L-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixEZnRhdc9hUTClmishyRl-s-L9_-TwwHPfWQrt-ZZIOcX5zTr65x9mSpgF2oUEdF59zlyIUhOXHXL6_NKnfILzSiaB3nCye4bhMrM-bWSsRWwWosLvLSghRcvNPSQ3_CSTIA/s1600/D-Link-DIR890L-1.JPG" height="304" width="640" /></a></div>
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<h3>
Specs</h3>
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<ul>
<li>802.11 a/b/g/n/ac wireless LAN</li>
<li>Four 10/100/1000 Gigabit LAN ports</li>
<li>1 USB 2.0 port</li>
<li>1 USB 3.0 port</li>
<li>387 x 247.3 x 119.5 mm</li>
</ul>
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<br />
<h3>
Features</h3>
<br />
<ul>
<li>SmartConnect</li>
<li>Guest zone</li>
<li>mydlink SharePort™ web access</li>
<li>Multi-language web setup wizard</li>
<li>Green Ethernet</li>
<li>DLNA media server support</li>
<li>Advanced AC SmartBeam</li>
<li>Dual active firewall</li>
<li>Network Address Translation (NAT)</li>
<li>Stateful Packet Inspection (SPI)</li>
<li>VPN Passthrough (PPTP/L2TP/IPsec)</li>
<li>Advanced QoS</li>
<li>QuickVPN - L2TP over IPsec</li>
</ul>
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<h3>
Mobile Apps</h3>
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<ul>
<li>mydlink Lite</li>
<li>mydlink SharePort</li>
<li>QRS Mobile v1.5</li>
</ul>
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<br />
Why D-Link DIR-890L? Rather, why AC3200?<br />
<br />
My current router is Dual-band N-standard, and has served me rather well. When people found out that I am reviewing this monster router, they asked me if it is good and what routers I would recommend, and particularly whether they should upgrade. My answer is: don't replace it if you are happy with the performance. If performance is bad, possibly due to one of the above factors, then the new AC3200 routers like DIR-890L might be for your consideration.<br />
<br />
The difference with AC3200 and the more mainstream and cheaper AC1900 is the additional band (AC1900 is actually N600 + AC1300). So what are the features on the DIR-890L that might interest the normal consumers?<br />
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<h3>
1. SmartConnect Triple Band</h3>
In most other routers with dual-band features, you have to select different Wi-Fi Network Names (SSID) for each band. This means that you have to manually switch to different network bands. For DIR-890L, you only need to define one SSID, and the router will intelligently switch bands depending on the data priority (i.e. QoS). Remember that the routers can only transmit data to one device at a time? This auto-switching will theoretically improve the wireless performance among all the devices connected to the DIR-890L. Even if you prefer to assign different SSID manually to your devices, the DIR-890L has an additional band for you to use compared to other routers.<br />
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<h3>
2. Powerful Intelligent Transmission</h3>
DIR-890L offers pretty impressive coverage. While reviewing the DIR-890L in my 5-room apartment, I practically have no dead zones. Even at the farthest-reached bathroom, I could still get good Wi-Fi signal. Seems the SmartBeam technology works pretty well.<br />
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<h3>
3. File Sharing</h3>
If you plug in a USB storage device to the DIR-890L, you will be able to use it like a basic NAS (Network Access Storage). Install the mydlink SharePort app on your Android or iOS device and then you can upload, download or stream media files (using DLNA) from the storage device. Based on my experience, the app may not have a pretty UI, but it works fine.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwP5HnrE8wPfkTeCGjk0BSNAF8XSx-DBSAipOSrz-B9JqIkrxI1b71RG6yKa8dekbabvJKwZ2OOPzEd88LyXmhm3v3DBEToG7LqDCRx3cF4uchhcYp8x48YniC4pVfTUqjhtY/s1600/2015-03-19+15.53.06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwP5HnrE8wPfkTeCGjk0BSNAF8XSx-DBSAipOSrz-B9JqIkrxI1b71RG6yKa8dekbabvJKwZ2OOPzEd88LyXmhm3v3DBEToG7LqDCRx3cF4uchhcYp8x48YniC4pVfTUqjhtY/s1600/2015-03-19+15.53.06.jpg" height="640" width="374" /></a></div>
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<h3>
4. Easier Setup</h3>
Using the D-Link QRS app, I am able to configure the router without using a computer and going through the admin page. I first experienced the advantages of QRS when I reviewed the <a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2015/02/d-link-wi-fi-audio-extender-dch-m225.html" target="_blank">D-Link Wi-Fi Audio Extender DCH-M225</a>. For the DIR-890L setup, I did encounter problems renaming the SSID, for reasons unknown. So after the successful initial default setup, I logged in to the admin page from the computer to rename the SSID.<br />
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<br />
<h3>
Upgrade or Hold?</h3>
As my earlier paragraph says, don't upgrade if your current router is working fine. Most of the time, when your router is working fine and you just feel like getting a newer better-spec router, sometimes you might not achieve the desired performance increment. During the review period, other than getting better wireless coverage, I do not experience any blazing speed difference on my mobile devices, because not all of them support the new AC standard and certainly not in multiple streams (remember: to achieve 1.3Gbps maximum AC speed, your device must transmit at 433MHz with 3 streams). More often than not, I am getting lower bandwidth due to the distance from the router (average 72Mbps). So end of the day, you might end up getting the same bandwidth as your existing router.<br />
<br />
But if your current router is getting somewhat cranky, then I would recommend you to get a router with the latest spec that technically offers tangible advantages. I feel that the DIR-890L fits into this description. <br />
<br />
First, the tri-band might sound like a gimmick, but you do get 3 wireless bands out from the router, which means, logically-speaking, you are getting 3 routers worth of connectivity power. The new DIR-890L also has better antennas which means the wireless connection is more stable.<br />
<br />
Second, the DIR-890L comes with 2x AC bands at 5GHz, which as of now, is not congested. Many high-end devices support the AC standard, including HTC One M8, Samsung Galaxy, iPhone 6, Macbook, Sony Xperia Z3. Do a search and see how many of your current devices work on 802.11ac. At the same time, if you can find the number of streams the devices can support, then you will truly achieve much higher bandwidth than the existing N-routers! (If you really do not have any devices that work in AC standard, then forget about AC routers)<br />
<br />
Finally, you can now get the DIR-890L at <b>S$339</b> from the IT Show! At that price, the DIR-890L is the lowest-priced AC3200 router in Singapore!!! Even if you don't have that many devices that support the latest AC3200, it is likely that you will be getting one within the next 3 years, which is the warranty period of the DIR-890L.<br />
<br />
<br />
P.S. The red colour model is really stunning. Check it out here!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzfKrTECa_wbr2Djhw5XjTKkpRbMrIzkIEKja_EWLdVDYROGZFfAhzQWYw5zFUZULfgojgw_nYXdg8W9q6itmtnsO6Bj5Cmqx0WF6peyzDM0GJa5V6ZduNyqH5e8k_5o9kzy8/s1600/DIR-890L+(Front).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzfKrTECa_wbr2Djhw5XjTKkpRbMrIzkIEKja_EWLdVDYROGZFfAhzQWYw5zFUZULfgojgw_nYXdg8W9q6itmtnsO6Bj5Cmqx0WF6peyzDM0GJa5V6ZduNyqH5e8k_5o9kzy8/s1600/DIR-890L+(Front).jpg" height="193" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image Credit: D-Link</td></tr>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Article written by Chester Tan <a href="http://musicphotolife.com/">http://musicphotolife.com/</a></span></i><br />
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">Original article published in http://musicphotolife.com/ . Copyright by Chester Tan.</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09903396787688350549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36994309.post-48241331078632773442015-03-17T12:06:00.001+08:002015-03-17T12:06:14.890+08:00Philips Fidelio X2 Headphones Review: Detailed Transparent Sound<div class="hreview">
Quite often when I review headphones, I would be able to promptly identify the audio characteristics. But in the case of the Philips Fidelio X2, it took me over a week to decide on how to pen this review.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN41bELmD0y3f8bwJ1K-WTCzMtNopqg1eIlMnr6zx_C7bMwjiz4voy9_q24C7Jt5PEy-VUv3OH-jFV-3e8YLqkyT-8wbsBBj8C4a3tfJ-8Y1ff3te3Maf7NmFonNAY2uVuQGc/s1600/Philips-Fidelio-X2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN41bELmD0y3f8bwJ1K-WTCzMtNopqg1eIlMnr6zx_C7bMwjiz4voy9_q24C7Jt5PEy-VUv3OH-jFV-3e8YLqkyT-8wbsBBj8C4a3tfJ-8Y1ff3te3Maf7NmFonNAY2uVuQGc/s1600/Philips-Fidelio-X2.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Could it be due to the fact that the sound signature is so natural that I am unable to comment whether the treble is too clear or too veiled, or if the bass is too flat or too boomy, or if the mids is too recessed or too warm?<br />
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Could it be that the X2 does not exhibit any of those unnatural sounds?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMVJmJjKHe80czYLM-4Uv-iLsyIzInyHai5VuwllK-5nUIRtp6c0jvEEYXAuRKv5SY9ZEbFVumADe_rpMiB48ZrR4S9FuA-Fxd38tgJxk4lfMVwLhcJcsJxE5fllPtuSYTlmU/s1600/Philips-Fidelio-X2-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMVJmJjKHe80czYLM-4Uv-iLsyIzInyHai5VuwllK-5nUIRtp6c0jvEEYXAuRKv5SY9ZEbFVumADe_rpMiB48ZrR4S9FuA-Fxd38tgJxk4lfMVwLhcJcsJxE5fllPtuSYTlmU/s1600/Philips-Fidelio-X2-2.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<h3>
Sound Assessment</h3>
The Fidelio X2 did not strike me much on first impression. That is because the X2 does not over-exaggerate the original audio, unlike many other ear speakers where they sweetened the output. Hence, for other audio products, I would always get hit immediately with "wow, great treble/bass/clarity/soundstage, etc."<br />
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What the X2 does is to expand the fidelity and audio details to the listener, allowing one to experience the entire frequency range in a well-balanced fashion. This means that I get to hear the bass without feeling too boomy, yet I can still enjoy the brightness of the treble without getting ear fatigue or unnatural sibilance. With the X2, my ears can easily pick up the instrumental details where on other headphones would require compromising some frequency range. I love how the bass effortlessly extends audibly to the lowest frequencies, surprising me with previously-unnoticed details while listening to my usual reference tracks. The best part is that you can listen music at high volume and do not feel the discomfort compared to normal headphones.<br />
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If the music does not sound pleasurable on the X2, it is probably because of the audio mastering. Indeed, the X2 is a pair of unforgiving headphones, revealing imperfections of recording, audio compression and sound balancing.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW_IZLfiY4HlQ6xFOq1w9lFo6c1rLGMmJG3Ch25TKvzDQ7cUDJ9k9cEtc5j9b32SJ4lHKooM0csONe_eOXSMvyBIgkuTYkpEGDSLYyo4H879-koP7Wkk5L9C33PjpSXJSJldc/s1600/Philips-Fidelio-X2-3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW_IZLfiY4HlQ6xFOq1w9lFo6c1rLGMmJG3Ch25TKvzDQ7cUDJ9k9cEtc5j9b32SJ4lHKooM0csONe_eOXSMvyBIgkuTYkpEGDSLYyo4H879-koP7Wkk5L9C33PjpSXJSJldc/s1600/Philips-Fidelio-X2-3.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<h3>
Drawbacks</h3>
The biggest drawback of the X2 as result of its open back design to alleviate sound pressure, is that there is zero sound isolation - people around the user can hear the sound leak, and the user can hear ambient noises. The X2 is probably the "noisiest" headphones my wife has ever come across. No wonder why Philips printed "indoor headphones" on the box. Not only you should enjoy the X2 in a quiet environment, you should only listen this at high volume when no one is around.<br />
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The other concern is the velvet-material ear cushion which draws dust. How I wish Philips included a cloth case to store the X2 when not in use.<br />
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<h3>
Conclusion</h3>
The Philips Fidelio X2 is not for everyone. It does not sugar-coat the audio. It leaks sound which disturbs people around you. It does not isolate ambient noises to give you undisturbed enjoyment. But I still love it. It is a spectacular pair of headphones producing transparent audio for critical analytical listening, delivering aural pleasure and gratification. Now on sale in Singapore at a recommended retail price of S$499.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBSz4KKNCJTd0SKScy_6i8aSdd4HrKMgeEV_PNNfgzJYDfijSVf0-BCH62KNmotA0gIHry0Zmq6m8rWEQr0cc1cMXcjwGKfSArY2PYUBTNtFCq95OjbBnEjUmacCkA1QB2CxY/s1600/Philips-Fidelio-X2-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBSz4KKNCJTd0SKScy_6i8aSdd4HrKMgeEV_PNNfgzJYDfijSVf0-BCH62KNmotA0gIHry0Zmq6m8rWEQr0cc1cMXcjwGKfSArY2PYUBTNtFCq95OjbBnEjUmacCkA1QB2CxY/s1600/Philips-Fidelio-X2-1.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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<h3>
Specs</h3>
Frequency response: 5 - 40,000Hz<br />
Impedance: 30 ohm<br />
Maximum power input: 400 mW<br />
Sensitivity: 100 dB @ 1 mW<br />
Speaker diameter: 50mm<br />
Distortion: < 0.1% THD<br />
Diaphragm: LMC (Layered Motion Control)<br />
Magnet type: Neodymium<br />
Cable: 3m Oxygen-free<br />
Weight: 380g<br />
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<i><br /></i>
<i>The Fidelio X2 is tested with the following music devices: Sony NWZ-A15 Walkman, HTC One M8 Android Smartphone, E-MU 1820M Digital Audio System.</i><br />
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Reviewed by <span class="reviewer">Chester Tan </span><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://musicphotolife.com/">http://musicphotolife.com/</a></span></i><br />
Rating: <span class="rating">4.8</span> of 5</div>
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">Original article published in http://musicphotolife.com/ . Copyright by Chester Tan.</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09903396787688350549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36994309.post-32251246017804037302015-03-15T09:09:00.000+08:002015-03-15T09:09:36.212+08:00Samsung Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge: Exclusive Preview Opinions and PhotosWhen I posted images of the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge, it got many people excited. In this post, I will share more details of the latest flagship phones which I previewed during the hour-long hands-on session behind closed doors at the Samsung office.<br />
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<a href="https://instagram.com/p/0FraGRSp4E/" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_top">For dinner, I got Samsung Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge as desserts. #preview #exclusive #Singapore #samsungSG #GalaxyS6 #S6Edge #Samsung #nextisnow #GalaxyS6edge</a></div>
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A photo posted by Chester Tan (@musicdiary) on <time datetime="2015-03-11T13:15:01+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Mar 11, 2015 at 6:15am PDT</time></div>
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<h3>
Samsung Galaxy S6</h3>
Display: 5.1-inch Quad HD (2560x1440) Super AMOLED<br />
Processor: Exynos 7 Octa core - Quad core 2.1GHz + Quad core 1.5GHz<br />
OS: Android 5.0 Lollipop<br />
Camera: F1.9 16MP OIS (rear), F1.9 5MP (front)<br />
Network: LTE Cat 6 (300Mbps)<br />
Connectivity: WiFi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac (2.4 and 5 GHz), HT80 MIMO (2x2) 620Mbps, Wi-Fi Direct, Bluetooth 4.1, A2DP, apt-X, ANT+, USB 2.0, NFC, IR Remote<br />
Sensor: Accelorometer, Light, Gyroscope, Proximity, Compass, Barometer, Fingerprint, Hall, HRM<br />
Memory: RAM 3GB, LPDDR4. Internal Memory: 32/64/128GB, UFS 2.0<br />
Wireless Charging: WPC1.1 (4.6W Output) and PMA 1.0 (4.2W) compatible<br />
Dimension: 143.4 x 70.5 x 6.8 mm<br />
Weight: 138g<br />
Battery: 2550mAh<br />
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The new S6 is devoid of plastic. Its frame lined with tough aluminium (Al 6013), both front and rear are covered in the new Corning Gorilla Glass 4, offering more comfortable and traditional grip. While the metal frame glass back combo is not new to the smartphone market, it's a welcoming change for Galaxy lovers, stepping away from the plastic identity. And probably for the first time, Samsung Galaxy owners can use the phones naked and yet maintain the beauty without all the paint peels or plastic wear on older Galaxy devices.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf76tOGlHwnkmJl50Cv4xCP9KUzxMW7tmx16O7ON4JgnZHKe_5x5sPm4Y3UGY1xUb9jiDxNkigghxrcYBSHjgaqO4iZvBW8mIgBmX2PinGF65qlhko2lV-seWxqdw6cdtvAb4/s1600/GalaxyS6-S6Edge-side.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf76tOGlHwnkmJl50Cv4xCP9KUzxMW7tmx16O7ON4JgnZHKe_5x5sPm4Y3UGY1xUb9jiDxNkigghxrcYBSHjgaqO4iZvBW8mIgBmX2PinGF65qlhko2lV-seWxqdw6cdtvAb4/s1600/GalaxyS6-S6Edge-side.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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The top and bottom sides of the S6 are rounded, while the left and right sides are a little flattened. The corners are much thicker which means it should survive drops better.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1o9O_tw3X4SYLyw5t2JdWv-aHOZ5GEVvJVthl96OeTiXtOP8opDFdCIsgthsouYGkVpMAsFLJ-fvZGQrUtPFpxMyslf0dXmopzVqt9JTQu0BI93U_lOSk-9Mk3XqK4c0DVxI/s1600/GalaxyS6-S6Edge-back.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1o9O_tw3X4SYLyw5t2JdWv-aHOZ5GEVvJVthl96OeTiXtOP8opDFdCIsgthsouYGkVpMAsFLJ-fvZGQrUtPFpxMyslf0dXmopzVqt9JTQu0BI93U_lOSk-9Mk3XqK4c0DVxI/s1600/GalaxyS6-S6Edge-back.JPG" height="640" width="560" /></a></div>
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The rear of the S6 (and S6 Edge) is plain, but not that it matters, since most owners would be covering it with a casing. Samsung shares that on other colour variants like Black Sapphire, Gold Platinum, Blue Topaz, the rear will reflect some interesting visual textures under lighting.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLdiFz5G6GI6Z4DBi3foJRWac3X4Jr-NML0mo7h-GSUiUlFp-SvcyohS6MBR7JXfzdCK-UzoNu4_TvDrNm3BkrrXZsoYtBteC56DAi3UOH4suWXHsQHwA05dQ47V3zjJwVGf8/s1600/GalaxyS6-S6Edge-7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLdiFz5G6GI6Z4DBi3foJRWac3X4Jr-NML0mo7h-GSUiUlFp-SvcyohS6MBR7JXfzdCK-UzoNu4_TvDrNm3BkrrXZsoYtBteC56DAi3UOH4suWXHsQHwA05dQ47V3zjJwVGf8/s1600/GalaxyS6-S6Edge-7.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<h3>
Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge</h3>
The S6 Edge is really the star of the announcement, because of its unique dual-edge design. People love glass curves because of the way light reflects on them.<br />
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<a href="https://instagram.com/p/0G1wU-Sp1k/" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_top">Exclusive preview of the new Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge. #nextisnow The curved edges on both sides give the impression that you are holding to a super thin phone. UI remains largely unchanged from recent #Samsung phones but now you can apply Themes to change the look. Edge Panel functions totally different from Note 4 Edge, no favourites app list, Edge content slides into the 2560x1440 display, does not have its own dedicated edge strip. Follow me to get more first hand insights on this upcoming smartphone. Launching in #Singapore on 10 April 2015, price to be announced. #GalaxyS6edge #S6Edge #samsungSG #Samsung #Galaxy #S6</a></div>
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A photo posted by Chester Tan (@musicdiary) on <time datetime="2015-03-12T00:04:41+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Mar 11, 2015 at 5:04pm PDT</time></div>
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The Edge Screen function is vastly different from the <a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2015/01/3-benefits-galaxy-note-edge-offers-that.html" target="_blank">Note 4 Edge</a> implementation. Firstly, there is no dedicated panel for the Edge Screen, so when you invoke the Edge Panel, it intrudes into the existing display screen. Secondly, there is no app favourites, which remains on the existing home screen bottom row. Third, there are different apps on the S6 Edge, namely the new People Edge, the new Edge Lighting, the Information Screen, and the Night Clock.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd5nFqAjr8pjObhiM5d1vcA8Y4KaDg0WJt6SNdEOpKRQw3bWJh1djHzmiVS8qDDO6o90zZRcQfBWZSHu_ldY8u3XFs3DAcNWh4m_vXWVo-z0JLAUK8MRpa_KrBgSJ48Ns_ets/s1600/Samsung+Galaxy+S6+Edge-menu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd5nFqAjr8pjObhiM5d1vcA8Y4KaDg0WJt6SNdEOpKRQw3bWJh1djHzmiVS8qDDO6o90zZRcQfBWZSHu_ldY8u3XFs3DAcNWh4m_vXWVo-z0JLAUK8MRpa_KrBgSJ48Ns_ets/s1600/Samsung+Galaxy+S6+Edge-menu.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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The new People Edge lets you retrieve the information of your favourite contacts. Edge Lighting allows you to identify the caller via assigned lighting colour when your S6 Edge is facing down.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKlU-GFZZQz2BHTdY9SZrdWvNjmPvB04FUhHQmHX6z1HgNK9uhX7CNNjpzbV_kARPQh-RMww0Zm4dKUZpJyCVzXMOmUivd7hNC8eN6u9qbuZUBkEyqNy9fCmHXnzr2O3AWzFQ/s1600/GalaxyS6-S6Edge-panel.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKlU-GFZZQz2BHTdY9SZrdWvNjmPvB04FUhHQmHX6z1HgNK9uhX7CNNjpzbV_kARPQh-RMww0Zm4dKUZpJyCVzXMOmUivd7hNC8eN6u9qbuZUBkEyqNy9fCmHXnzr2O3AWzFQ/s1600/GalaxyS6-S6Edge-panel.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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I observed carefully and found that the thin aluminium sides are actually angled slightly towards the rear. This subtle design detail that I also found on the <a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2015/01/oppo-r5-review-beauty-but-not-beast.html" target="_blank">Oppo R5</a> offers better hand-held experience.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif8qknZF2injyLW5j3o2HCqqhA_SO5hnymKl6ALV4IB47cSglmGFxPPOId6yNVrMXtqdtzdBPX0uuA8tq7vMV6fkjx2f2_xwbethJCgVWvsfE7mwnO8wJY4rqsPMrXo52G-CU/s1600/GalaxyS6-S6Edge-5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif8qknZF2injyLW5j3o2HCqqhA_SO5hnymKl6ALV4IB47cSglmGFxPPOId6yNVrMXtqdtzdBPX0uuA8tq7vMV6fkjx2f2_xwbethJCgVWvsfE7mwnO8wJY4rqsPMrXo52G-CU/s1600/GalaxyS6-S6Edge-5.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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S6 Edge has the distinctive look and feel, but thinner sides might feel uncomfortable and higher chance of touching the screen.<br />
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Specs are identical to S6, even the screen size and resolution, except:<br />
Dimension: 142.1 x 70.1 x 7.0 mm (narrower, shorter, thicker)<br />
Weight: 132g (lighter)<br />
Battery: 2600mAh (50mAh larger)<br />
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Another subtle difference is the positioning of the nano-SIM card slot. On the S6, it is at the left side, while on the S6 Edge, it is located at the top.<br />
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<h3>
User Interface</h3>
Both S6 and S6 Edge sports similar TouchWiz UX to existing Samsung devices, which I personally do not favour. Good thing is that now the devices let you apply themes, so now you can change the look and feel of the menu and icons.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaMPGpgovtQotfWs5GmMtGIODXm6sVGFLhw92wRvUlmtB8pDtwBnLaR865BCVg_hZqKpCyfAJjbgaw2kYC1b6DG1a35Jjc0Iv6hQP9_FFuLsPZ4QrW2g6qn5lgVGyyCYmpb8I/s1600/GalaxyS6-S6Edge-Theme.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaMPGpgovtQotfWs5GmMtGIODXm6sVGFLhw92wRvUlmtB8pDtwBnLaR865BCVg_hZqKpCyfAJjbgaw2kYC1b6DG1a35Jjc0Iv6hQP9_FFuLsPZ4QrW2g6qn5lgVGyyCYmpb8I/s1600/GalaxyS6-S6Edge-Theme.JPG" height="524" width="640" /></a></div>
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While the overall UI feels snappy, I would expect that out of any new Android device. There is a pre-installed Smart Manager app that will help you manage your device to optimise the device, clear memory cache, and scan for security issues.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyXGNDroGPpLl0TH5ATixVLSF98N5X90BJS2NQdUT-kacunVpYxNYwtbk0Ak259699mZs65mtK21uni5uk7Vcmg8twFOC16AsGRDW-ZLUe-lkSrE77hOTKqmpxzAgxEAhvRHM/s1600/GalaxyS6-S6Edge-security.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyXGNDroGPpLl0TH5ATixVLSF98N5X90BJS2NQdUT-kacunVpYxNYwtbk0Ak259699mZs65mtK21uni5uk7Vcmg8twFOC16AsGRDW-ZLUe-lkSrE77hOTKqmpxzAgxEAhvRHM/s1600/GalaxyS6-S6Edge-security.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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I was unable to go into any detailed comment on the phone operations, battery life, camera quality, due to the short time spent on the devices. But feature-wise, you can now start up the camera quickly (less than a second) by double-clicking the home button. The <b>camera quality </b>remains superior with minimal noise under low light. The <b>fingerprint scanning </b>no longer requires a swipe, just like iPhone. The battery can be charged real quick using the supplied <b>quick charge </b>adapter. It has built-in <b>wireless charging </b>and supports both WPC (Qi) and PMA standards. The <b>heart-rate monitor </b>also doubles as a sensor for rejecting calls and camera shutter.<br />
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The major minuses: <b>no microSD </b>support and <b>non-removable battery. </b>Plus, the battery capacity is rather measly, but only a real-life review can tell if the capacity is sufficient for the whole day.<br />
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<h3>
Accessories </h3>
We were fortunate to get a preview of almost all the official cover accessories. Here I highlight a few that might pique your interest.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCM4cVIuD6ufA0oRPdl6FZVo3z3OlTzQtIOJkTCsTSWU6_5kqMx9NhzOvE2nWOm_1yUpXCO9KStYcwLfePrMBfslxHEaNjbhxdnwUerq7Cc6S0NkE-c92F4-8YHPXLDR3H7bg/s1600/GalaxyS6-S6Edge-cover2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCM4cVIuD6ufA0oRPdl6FZVo3z3OlTzQtIOJkTCsTSWU6_5kqMx9NhzOvE2nWOm_1yUpXCO9KStYcwLfePrMBfslxHEaNjbhxdnwUerq7Cc6S0NkE-c92F4-8YHPXLDR3H7bg/s1600/GalaxyS6-S6Edge-cover2.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Protective Cover: </b>we know it as the standard casing that protects only the rear of the phone. You can see from the photos that the cover is held onto the S6 and S6 Edge at the 4 corners. This is to allow maximum touch experience on the devices.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjsGrAc95HABbgeeNkWykDFlJav-nXfc1FeI9-QcrDL6WZ4fYjF5BKd87frmbFS78AlN7zAwrJPDzkuLIovao2pZS9FOuX2PqR5e93D9t1Mx4Zwl6vFoOSsjpyV6b3005G_F4/s1600/GalaxyS6-S6Edge-cover6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjsGrAc95HABbgeeNkWykDFlJav-nXfc1FeI9-QcrDL6WZ4fYjF5BKd87frmbFS78AlN7zAwrJPDzkuLIovao2pZS9FOuX2PqR5e93D9t1Mx4Zwl6vFoOSsjpyV6b3005G_F4/s1600/GalaxyS6-S6Edge-cover6.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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The inside of the cover is laden with fabric to pamper your smartphone.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYBNKVB2s_gFJMJNVMpCOaTzGAf0rk0B9XKZGFVlpFWa40qK0z7c3Q3QUpvYv5OJKyIhQGw3WhFvDfO6TPnvWHWipfj_6bTODBIyqmcAAK3URkqUFbegXrLRKAgNP_snOIzdI/s1600/GalaxyS6-S6Edge-cover1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYBNKVB2s_gFJMJNVMpCOaTzGAf0rk0B9XKZGFVlpFWa40qK0z7c3Q3QUpvYv5OJKyIhQGw3WhFvDfO6TPnvWHWipfj_6bTODBIyqmcAAK3URkqUFbegXrLRKAgNP_snOIzdI/s1600/GalaxyS6-S6Edge-cover1.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Clear View Cover:</b> besides the usual S View Cover and the traditional flip cover, this new Clear View Cover has a reflective yet translucent flip cover that lets you see the phone screen. You can even interact with the screen behind the cover, to accept or reject a call.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoCcLATeTzNfmAFsq21ey396OPTy7ay1aVWV8qHmzMdLvihLwRcFtGIEpngUn4HlFlkXNIM65GeBjmG4-6l4c3O7bFDZ3rO3qjbyoPTWbvorqnVpZabMlSek5et4TuKLRHaOY/s1600/GalaxyS6-S6Edge-clearview2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoCcLATeTzNfmAFsq21ey396OPTy7ay1aVWV8qHmzMdLvihLwRcFtGIEpngUn4HlFlkXNIM65GeBjmG4-6l4c3O7bFDZ3rO3qjbyoPTWbvorqnVpZabMlSek5et4TuKLRHaOY/s1600/GalaxyS6-S6Edge-clearview2.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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The S6 Edge variant has the front cover curved with the contours of the screen.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpN3NbrSZQvuCeEP_WC2Pln5833LombM-D2gNXgYKNLTLeY_wkU85v8AvefM-478vuyuZN8fJCW4_BsnXi7DPuZ9o2OgQom5h5YkFaV1t5hhfSQhTJDF2TDgts2fzZv0oGDVg/s1600/GalaxyS6-S6Edge-clearview3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpN3NbrSZQvuCeEP_WC2Pln5833LombM-D2gNXgYKNLTLeY_wkU85v8AvefM-478vuyuZN8fJCW4_BsnXi7DPuZ9o2OgQom5h5YkFaV1t5hhfSQhTJDF2TDgts2fzZv0oGDVg/s1600/GalaxyS6-S6Edge-clearview3.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Wireless Charger: </b>This wireless charge is based on Qi standard, and one of the attendees placed his Moto 360 onto the pad and charged successfully.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEePFOIkLL0p4E0cGDMZE3IaowTMD5POqm7Kzpub86UVRnpWYcWp92R8-qf6IVdzaxRfeXGoDln3XbNRP-4xXrrF7_fhyhygIjZ1P10-oT3tf37IOWw8Rlo-9fdnJr57nxJhQ/s1600/GalaxyS6-S6Edge-wirelesscharger1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEePFOIkLL0p4E0cGDMZE3IaowTMD5POqm7Kzpub86UVRnpWYcWp92R8-qf6IVdzaxRfeXGoDln3XbNRP-4xXrrF7_fhyhygIjZ1P10-oT3tf37IOWw8Rlo-9fdnJr57nxJhQ/s1600/GalaxyS6-S6Edge-wirelesscharger1.JPG" height="425" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXvhimMoarB_6L4Wj35sCNTW4CPXiMQkMYWDOl50u5Lq88EFShtV-yjeBgWgpauXNIpUtKGqKlH7r6th4QlA6zNxGnnYi1wheyRuqbJMwjBd9qOKOx8l96ftPpj7uxi8gKWpo/s1600/GalaxyS6-S6Edge-wirelesscharger.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXvhimMoarB_6L4Wj35sCNTW4CPXiMQkMYWDOl50u5Lq88EFShtV-yjeBgWgpauXNIpUtKGqKlH7r6th4QlA6zNxGnnYi1wheyRuqbJMwjBd9qOKOx8l96ftPpj7uxi8gKWpo/s1600/GalaxyS6-S6Edge-wirelesscharger.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<h3>
Parting Thoughts</h3>
Samsung has come a long way with the Galaxy S-series. The new Samsung S6 and S6 Edge is a much-desired design leap. Not much could be said about the operating performance, which I could only share if I could get a review unit. If you are familiar with the Samsung Galaxy Note 4 look and feel, then there are no major surprises. I believe the S6 and the S6 Edge is going to be highly desired upgrades for existing Samsung owners, for finally you are getting a premium-feel smartphone at a premium price.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRHVXM6NewVjrU_kz839-SVQH3xd0X3ar-Zve7xdmawKRSOl3NcSi9E-W1dH89uMpc-3wi8RupyaBbVxILYRCqtd0YkW-VbntcKuZJwA8Cs2fBS3vo2dRIHAhqBJq54NVM6P8/s1600/GalaxyS6-S6Edge-9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRHVXM6NewVjrU_kz839-SVQH3xd0X3ar-Zve7xdmawKRSOl3NcSi9E-W1dH89uMpc-3wi8RupyaBbVxILYRCqtd0YkW-VbntcKuZJwA8Cs2fBS3vo2dRIHAhqBJq54NVM6P8/s1600/GalaxyS6-S6Edge-9.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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The Samsung Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge will be available from 10 April 2015 in Singapore with 32, 64, 128GB storage options. Colour options are: White Pearl, Black Sapphire, Gold Platinum, Blue Topaz (S6 only), and Green Emerald (S6 Edge only). Retail price will be announced soon.<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Article written by Chester Tan <a href="http://musicphotolife.com/">http://musicphotolife.com/</a></span></i><div class="blogger-post-footer">Original article published in http://musicphotolife.com/ . Copyright by Chester Tan.</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09903396787688350549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36994309.post-85813664184395661042015-03-08T23:48:00.000+08:002015-03-08T23:50:25.301+08:00Music.Photo.Tech.Digest: 8 Mar 2015This week's digest has got to be the most "complete" in terms of coverage. Why? Because I have an article on MUSIC, another artiele on PHOTO, and another article on TECH. Splendid.<br />
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<h3>
Chester Tan - A Little-Less Invisible Musician</h3>
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After the "sensational" <a href="http://www.todayonline.com/entertainment/music/chester-tan-most-famous-singaporean-musician-you-never-knew" target="_blank">newspaper article</a>, which proclaimed that I was "one of the most successful musician no one knows", was published, I received a lot of congratulatory messages from friends and colleagues. They never knew I was that "famous".<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSvm1kTOs27A7sHUErqMolfUNpFRhDGlfZQv-m0YhIQdrvS3GOIoIZmK1Yy0FwSdSiA79XrqnOrUHTU8CjB0jgtCfbKhzTmCBXLIlRI7iGux35K7P3lAjuWSSVcGgRp9u1-q8/s1600/TODAY-25Feb2015-P44.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSvm1kTOs27A7sHUErqMolfUNpFRhDGlfZQv-m0YhIQdrvS3GOIoIZmK1Yy0FwSdSiA79XrqnOrUHTU8CjB0jgtCfbKhzTmCBXLIlRI7iGux35K7P3lAjuWSSVcGgRp9u1-q8/s1600/TODAY-25Feb2015-P44.jpg" height="400" width="246" /></a></div>
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Without a doubt, the article has increased the awareness of Chester Tan for a brief moment in time. But like most other news in the past, it will fade away. I am not used to be in the limelight, so I am somewhat glad that things are gradually going back to normal.<br />
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<h3>
Bridal Photography - Hiatus for 3 Years and Finally a New Shoot</h3>
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I have stopped commercial photography for over 3 years. Once a while, I would still accept small wedding assignments through friends recommendation. I photographed Charlotte more than 2 years ago and has kept in touch over the years. After her lavish wedding event, she wanted to take more photos of her Marchesa evening gown which was not featured in her pre-wedding bridal photography. Not wanting to put such a gorgeous gown to waste, we discussed over weeks and got Lynette Feng, another long-time makeup artist friend, to collaborate in this shoot project. The original location choice was National Museum, but they require a fee, and during my recce, I find that place rather crowded. Lynette then suggested shooting at the new Victoria Concert Hall. When I visited the place, I immediately loved it. What's more, when I enquired with the event venue in-charge, she informed me that there is no fee for shooting inside the public area of VCH.<br />
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With everything in place, we went ahead with the shoot as planned.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMJ40MLK-4EUMZoUEpkI4aOmICI1uiufCw9Lw1MXs4_A8Z9HvkKB5ZKBNk98337Xw_FEgcanemCxE4jx99w4UJDVsyx2d5s8xYhTuX6Bj029JnnutxT6kubvmtr24LWFOdI-M/s1600/D6C_5465-ed-002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMJ40MLK-4EUMZoUEpkI4aOmICI1uiufCw9Lw1MXs4_A8Z9HvkKB5ZKBNk98337Xw_FEgcanemCxE4jx99w4UJDVsyx2d5s8xYhTuX6Bj029JnnutxT6kubvmtr24LWFOdI-M/s1600/D6C_5465-ed-002.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Heard from Charlotte and Lynette that the photos received good comments. It even triggered few requests for collaborations.<br />
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It's good to be given opportunities to shoot such lavish theme, especially when beautiful wedding gowns are hard to come by, unlike street wear shoots. Thank you Charlotte for her confidence in my skills and Lynette for dolling Charlotte for the shoot. For professional makeup and hair services by Lynette, visit <a href="http://www.lynettefeng.com/">http://www.lynettefeng.com/</a><br />
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More photos will be shared over <a href="http://instagram.com/musicdiary" target="_blank">Instagram</a> and <a href="http://fb.com/chesterphoto" target="_blank">Photography Facebook Page</a>.<br />
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<h3>
Throwback 2010</h3>
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5 years ago on this day <b>8 Mar 2010</b>, I wrote an article about my dance photography. Say no more, <a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2010/03/dance-photos-movement-libre.html" target="_blank">here's the link and enjoy the read and the photos</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCtf5egvUPTydZ5QtWN18vV1ZTABSD2aRuUfskfSHgAQRooQeOMWCRkxm0Hoic2MtdR9waTF9fFaKNcwDL6gz4DAqDLoR1UIer1zqKk9f07vRMKoV50wMFH7Tr_erZjFsiovc/s1600/D3C_2649s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCtf5egvUPTydZ5QtWN18vV1ZTABSD2aRuUfskfSHgAQRooQeOMWCRkxm0Hoic2MtdR9waTF9fFaKNcwDL6gz4DAqDLoR1UIer1zqKk9f07vRMKoV50wMFH7Tr_erZjFsiovc/s1600/D3C_2649s.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
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<h3>
B&O 90th Anniversary: The Love Affair Collection</h3>
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Bang and Olufsen started in 1925, and after 90 years of creating glamourous audio products, they announced 6 current products reimagined in Rose Gold colour.<br />
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<a href="https://instagram.com/p/z2V7TSSp53/" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_top">It's B&O 90th year, and they have invited me to the launch of The Love Affair Collection in Singapore: 6 products in new Rose Gold limited edition colour. I have earlier reviewed Beoplay H6 in my blog and it's now available in Rose Gold too! #bangandolufsen #bangolufsen #beoplay #beolab #beovision #beoremote #Singapore #SG50 #launch #rosegold #loveaffaircollection #beo90years</a></div>
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A photo posted by Chester Tan (@musicdiary) on <time datetime="2015-03-05T14:18:42+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Mar 5, 2015 at 6:18am PST</time></div>
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<script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script><br />
The 6 products that B&O have included in the collection are:<br />
1. BeoVision Avant 85 - from S$45,650<br />
2. BeoVision 11-46 - from S$14,900<br />
3. BeoPlay A9 - S$3,698<br />
4. <a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2014/05/beoplay-h6-headphones-review.html" target="_blank">BeoPlay H6</a> - S$698<br />
5. BeoLab 18 - from S$5,100<br />
6. BeoRemote One - S$690<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfly9ANTaGP2A3FOtKEUBOVT0yb804F_LqZHUsQV9qG7WLzrYTShRLRTp9AOa8l9XWCYeUxhxhTQGoqlnznhIh_M2SL1kGYqomgtKI6-HTzROTtv4AM79G53aTv7EdlhKZ9UU/s1600/BeoSound-Moment.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfly9ANTaGP2A3FOtKEUBOVT0yb804F_LqZHUsQV9qG7WLzrYTShRLRTp9AOa8l9XWCYeUxhxhTQGoqlnznhIh_M2SL1kGYqomgtKI6-HTzROTtv4AM79G53aTv7EdlhKZ9UU/s1600/BeoSound-Moment.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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During the event, B&O also unveiled the BeoSound Moment, an intelligent wireless music system that connects to online music service like Deezer. The product is navigated via a detachable double-sided interface. On one side of the interface is a wooden oak surface with touch-sensitive wooden wheel. On the other side is an aluminium-and-glass tablet design to manage your music collection. The reason behind this two contrasting material is that the wood side complements any home interior, and the wood offers a more relaxed touch feel. The aluminium-glass side offers a more engaging feel as the user is encouraged to interact with the product.<br />
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Besides the usual song selection via lists, the BeoSound Moment picks the songs based on your mood using the MoodWheel interface. It also learns your listening behaviour and suggests music that you might like, depending on the day of the week or time of the day. You can enjoy music either from online, or files stored within your home network (DLNA), or via Bluetooth, or direct Line-In. This masterfully-designed product is priced at S$4,000 and is optimised to work with all B&O speakers.<br />
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One thing about these B&O products featured: they look so stunning, you would feel so good just to buy them, especially if you can afford.<br />
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Thanks B&O Singapore and Publicist PR for the exclusive invite.<br />
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<h3>
Chingay 2015 at the Heartlands</h3>
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We rarely attend mass events because the crowd can be daunting, plus potential parking problems, lengthy walks, and humid weather. So when Chingay came to the heartlands, and especially when the grand event was located a few blocks away from my parents-in-law house, we all decided to join in the fun.<br />
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<a href="https://instagram.com/p/z7hy7Dyp8g/" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_top">PM Lee @leehsienloong finally arrived at Teck Ghee market for the #chingay heartlands finale! #SG50 #CNY2015 #Singapore #chingay2015 #festival</a></div>
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A video posted by Chester Tan (@musicdiary) on <time datetime="2015-03-07T14:38:37+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Mar 7, 2015 at 6:38am PST</time></div>
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The float parade arrived almost an hour later than scheduled, but when it reached, all frustrations were gone with the celebratory lion and dragon dancers. PM Lee and his entourage arrived on the float, and minutes later, firecrackers were lit up to end the night with a bang.<br />
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=10152892377674865">Post</a> by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/chestertan">Chester Tan</a>.</div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Article written by Chester Tan (<a href="http://musicphotolife.com/">http://musicphotolife.com</a>)</span></i><div class="blogger-post-footer">Original article published in http://musicphotolife.com/ . Copyright by Chester Tan.</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09903396787688350549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36994309.post-3969218294982771662015-02-25T13:50:00.003+08:002015-02-25T14:00:03.926+08:00Chester Tan: The Invisible Musician<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaxqFj7S7akTCdGf9ud4L6WddGshUBgcnqo09U_1-Y8LpdmLwTDXfYvaXLKrs6qe8xX8VU191pf1UjUOFNsACR2NAl6Z6PQetvhoZTJeGVgsRaNUSbnr-0FrTUMpqwWnTcN9E/s1600/TODAY-25Feb2015-P43.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaxqFj7S7akTCdGf9ud4L6WddGshUBgcnqo09U_1-Y8LpdmLwTDXfYvaXLKrs6qe8xX8VU191pf1UjUOFNsACR2NAl6Z6PQetvhoZTJeGVgsRaNUSbnr-0FrTUMpqwWnTcN9E/s1600/TODAY-25Feb2015-P43.jpg" height="400" width="311" /></a></div>
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This morning, James from Warner Singapore excitedly messaged me. I was prominently featured in the TODAY paper today. In the "TODAY T COVER" section page 43, I was given a full page photo with an eye-catching headline. <b><i>Chester Tan: One of the most famous Singaporean musician no one knows.</i></b></div>
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I am thankful to Jing Yi for her flattering, almost sensational, write-up which is certainly going to catch some attention. "Most famous"? "Most successful"? I'm far far from that. Fellow musicians, please don't flame me, I didn't come up with the title!!!<br />
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As mentioned in my article, I hope more local composers can explore the instrumental genre. Last year, Singapore's twin sisters musicians, <a href="http://www.pianoccio.com/" target="_blank">Low Shao Suan and Low Shao Ying</a>, published their first piano-instrumental album in China and won the Guangdong Musicians Association 2014 Artistic Performance Album of the Year. Local music-maker <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Eric-Chiryoku/" target="_blank">Eric Chiryoku</a> has also published 3 instrumental albums over the past decade and is going to release his 4th this year. <a href="http://dicklee.com/" target="_blank">Dick Lee</a> has also published original instrumental music in the album "Rice" (2003). <a href="http://www.newasiarecords.com/andrew-lum.php" target="_blank">Andrew Lum</a> is another Singaporean music maker who preceded me in winning COMPASS Top Contemporary Instrumental Award (2006, 2007, 2009, 2010).<br />
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The local music industry has seen tremendous growth and prominence in mainstream genres like pop, rock, jazz. I believe there are equal potential for instrumental or Neo-Classical music, where they could enjoy airplay in public spaces. If every mainstream songwriter allocates a bit of their time to publish instrumental songs, Singapore would have a sizable catalog for licensees to use them.<br />
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I hope to reach out to like-minded musicians who have similar desires to explore this genre, so do drop me a comment and we'll take it off from there.<br />
<br />
Thank you <b>James Kang</b> and <b>Warner Music Singapore</b> for supporting <a href="http://www.piano-spa.com/" target="_blank">Piano Spa</a> since 2005. Thank you <b>Gilbert Ong</b>, my ex-manager, for starting it all. This journey would never have taken place without you.<br />
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Link to TODAY article: <a href="http://www.todayonline.com/entertainment/music/chester-tan-most-famous-singaporean-musician-you-never-knew">http://www.todayonline.com/entertainment/music/chester-tan-most-famous-singaporean-musician-you-never-knew</a><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Article written by Chester Tan (<a href="http://musicphotolife.com/">http://musicphotolife.com/</a>)</span></i><div class="blogger-post-footer">Original article published in http://musicphotolife.com/ . Copyright by Chester Tan.</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09903396787688350549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36994309.post-83319844344395149962015-02-22T11:43:00.005+08:002015-03-26T10:55:14.001+08:00Music.Photo.Tech.Digest: 22 Feb 2015This week has been a short work week in Singapore due to the Lunar New Year holidays on Thursday and Friday. In accordance to the Chinese tradition, I shut myself off completely from work and blogging. Until today. And like all other MPTD posts, I'm gonna finish the post from start to finish in one morning.<br />
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<h3>
Listening with Sound Blaster JAM</h3>
As I was typing this post, I am indulging on the <a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2015/02/sound-blaster-jam-headset-review.html" target="_blank">Creative Sound Blaster JAM</a> which I reviewed earlier this week. I did not realise how much I enjoyed the headset, not entirely for the sound quality, but for the usability. How usable is it? Firstly, the on-ear design - meaning the speakers rest on your ears, not inside, not cupping it (that's over-the-ear) - has the benefit of me listening to ambient noise. It allows me to hear what's going on with the rest of the family members (wifey coaching daughty on school work, for instance), and at the same time, enjoying Classical music subtly playing in my ears without disrupting my thought process.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR5oPTcbOiPPagEaDE4PRjTE6F-9wXQ_xD79VIE9vz-wcwa8uECLgf5df4fDpEtCd1IOEdG04BBbGLmLOGAGi4iDVmg_Gdj-hE8_6Dq5S8F3ngkilBvP7zjXVo9GgiBLWewnk/s1600/2015-02-22+10.05.22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR5oPTcbOiPPagEaDE4PRjTE6F-9wXQ_xD79VIE9vz-wcwa8uECLgf5df4fDpEtCd1IOEdG04BBbGLmLOGAGi4iDVmg_Gdj-hE8_6Dq5S8F3ngkilBvP7zjXVo9GgiBLWewnk/s1600/2015-02-22+10.05.22.jpg" height="400" width="311" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me. Now.</td></tr>
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The other thing I like about the JAM headset is how freaking light it is. It feels so effortless wearing it. And of course all the other advantages like allowing me to answer calls, listening to any incoming notifications chiming away.<br />
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<h3>
More Android Wear Info and Tips</h3>
Speaking of notification, I've posted my reviews on the Android Wear devices from Sony and LG. Just when I was contemplating on which to buy, LG announced a luxury-looking variant of the <a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2015/02/lg-g-watch-r-smartwatch-review.html" target="_blank">G Watch R</a>, called <b>Watch Urbane</b>. Basically the same spec as Watch R but with a full metal frame that looks more dressy than the Watch R.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir8qxFn2Dlbf9uwomUh6BiZFK7JDHrns8bbuHAx1zNDMtwvcxQNaEmCyQifIBAzBkEjJ254ReduITZWIeF9S8-7N2yis897A7DZ0kipJ06ADdpaRBJPRN4wizP9334WNxahn8/s1600/LG_WATCH_URBANE3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir8qxFn2Dlbf9uwomUh6BiZFK7JDHrns8bbuHAx1zNDMtwvcxQNaEmCyQifIBAzBkEjJ254ReduITZWIeF9S8-7N2yis897A7DZ0kipJ06ADdpaRBJPRN4wizP9334WNxahn8/s1600/LG_WATCH_URBANE3.jpg" height="295" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Swee boh (nice or not)?</td></tr>
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Don't be fooled by publicity images. The actual product might not look as pretty in real life, due to how the materials react to ambient light. For instance, the <a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2015/02/sony-smartwatch-3-swr50.html" target="_blank">Sony SmartWatch 3</a> appears to be uninspiring from press images but I thought it looked rather stylish. In contrast, the <a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2015/02/lg-g-watch-r-smartwatch-review.html" target="_blank">G Watch R</a> looked stunning on press images but the actual product is less attractive. At the end of the day, the beauty of any timepiece lies with the watch face, hence it is so important to feature the right watch face design on any product material. This is something Sony should learn.<br />
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So for the past 3 days, I have been playing around with the G Watch R watch faces to suit the occasion and the clothes I wear.<br />
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Day 1 of CNY:<br />
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<a href="https://instagram.com/p/zRYKXzSp4z/" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_top">Custom watch face for the Lunar new year #CNY2015 #LGGWatchR #androidwear #watchface #smartwatch #intellicom #SG50 #Singapore #chinese #festival</a></div>
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A photo posted by Chester Tan (@musicdiary) on <time datetime="2015-02-19T05:46:20+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Feb 18, 2015 at 9:46pm PST</time></div>
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Day 2:<br />
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<a href="https://instagram.com/p/zTyxu5ypwj/" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_top">Custom watch face for day 2 Lunar new year #CNY2015 #LGGWatchR #androidwear #watchface #smartwatch #intellicom #SG50 #Singapore #blue</a></div>
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A photo posted by Chester Tan (@musicdiary) on <time datetime="2015-02-20T04:17:23+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Feb 19, 2015 at 8:17pm PST</time></div>
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Day 3:<br />
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<div style="background: #F8F8F8; line-height: 0; margin-top: 40px; padding: 50% 0; text-align: center; width: 100%;">
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<a href="https://instagram.com/p/zWMbvmSp_v/" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_top">Custom watch face for Day 3 #CNY2015 #LGGWatchR #androidwear #watchface #smartwatch #intellicom #SG50 #pink #fonegrams</a></div>
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A photo posted by Chester Tan (@musicdiary) on <time datetime="2015-02-21T02:40:04+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Feb 20, 2015 at 6:40pm PST</time></div>
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<script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script>And today:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-1GsqM3oCB_g-NQTV0BRDyKqcPyRadK9IELYI5G5poi-s0G54h55En_tSeTGxOm49To8y1YBHazpscNdGjq2ndJuwK8ZAbkpK2Y8E0FPcEjBfdNvKeoYnJMrY3YLVXcNCmos/s1600/LGGWatchR-face.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-1GsqM3oCB_g-NQTV0BRDyKqcPyRadK9IELYI5G5poi-s0G54h55En_tSeTGxOm49To8y1YBHazpscNdGjq2ndJuwK8ZAbkpK2Y8E0FPcEjBfdNvKeoYnJMrY3YLVXcNCmos/s1600/LGGWatchR-face.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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Apart from playing with watch faces, here are the apps I've installed for Android Wear.<br />
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<a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.npi.wearminilauncher&hl=en-GB" target="_blank">Wear Mini Launcher</a> - quick launch menu screen, easier than the default way. Must-have.<br />
<a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.appfour.wearbrowser&hl=en-GB" target="_blank">Wear Internet Browser</a> - surf internet on your watch.<br />
<a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=at.maui.flopsydroid&hl=en-GB" target="_blank">Flopsy Droid (game)</a> - Flappy Bird clone, easier than the original.<br />
<a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=no.intellicom.lswatchface&hl=en-GB" target="_blank">Intellicom Watch Faces</a> - customise your watch face.<br />
<a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.flayvr.flayvr&hl=en-GB" target="_blank">MyRoll Gallery</a> - able to browse your phone photos from your watch.<br />
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I'm surprised to find fewer free apps for Android Wear, but if you pay, you can get apps to expand the capability of the watch. But then it comes to a point where you have to decide: do you want your phone to be overloaded with so many functions and lose the primary purpose of the wearable device? If you have so many functions on your watch, then what is the purpose of your phone? Also, what is the use of a watch if it runs out of battery? Do note also that a round watch face screen will have display constraints compared to a square face. Imagine using a calculator or keypad or keyboard on your round face watch. So, think carefully what you want out of your wearable device. Will you pay S$398 for a watch-looking <a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2015/02/lg-g-watch-r-smartwatch-review.html" target="_blank">G Watch R</a> but with limiting usability due to the round face, or will you pay S$298 for a gadget-looking <a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2015/02/sony-smartwatch-3-swr50.html" target="_blank">SmartWatch 3</a> that gives you the maximum usability but not so stylish? Pay more for looks less functions, or pay less for functions less looks?<br />
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<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-version="4" style="background: #FFF; border-radius: 3px; border: 0; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: -webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width: 99.375%; width: calc(100% - 2px);">
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<div style="margin: 8px 0 0 0; padding: 0 4px;">
<a href="https://instagram.com/p/ywOqySyp9v/" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_top">Ok Google. Let's see which Android Wear smartwatch is better. #Sony #smartwatch #SW3 #LGGWatchR #androidwear #tech #review #wearable #watchface</a></div>
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A photo posted by Chester Tan (@musicdiary) on <time datetime="2015-02-06T08:48:27+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Feb 6, 2015 at 12:48am PST</time></div>
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There is no easy answer, that's why I'm still sitting on the fence on my next smartwatch.<br />
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<h3>
LG SupersizeMe: The Big Picture Event</h3>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj666-5Ho5yiUWqU3Pg1kj4mOTutv4b43PybG8pSC84qiWf_w7qYTeTKFTN9Ci5hiGdN6VTUxtyCpyrfk9z9gNAh7m8QxNylawrx-Iqi1ulvnaYl1TdEU5W-AibG49PPqF21nU/s1600/LGGFlex2-BigPicture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj666-5Ho5yiUWqU3Pg1kj4mOTutv4b43PybG8pSC84qiWf_w7qYTeTKFTN9Ci5hiGdN6VTUxtyCpyrfk9z9gNAh7m8QxNylawrx-Iqi1ulvnaYl1TdEU5W-AibG49PPqF21nU/s1600/LGGFlex2-BigPicture.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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This coming weekend, <b>28 Feb - 1 Mar at 2-5pm</b>, drop by Suntec City Convention Hall Lobby where the mega screen is. LG is giving away prizes to participants to get photographed and beamed onto The Big Screen. Each participant will be given a scratch card to win prizes like the <a href="http://musicphotolife.blogspot.sg/2015/02/MPTD-15Feb2015.html" target="_blank">LG G Flex 2</a> (before market availability on 14 Mar), movie tickets, Lamborghini joy rides. Photos will also be shared on LG Facebook where the top likes will win additional prizes. <br />
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For those who couldn't win the G Flex 2, pre-orders will begin at 27 Feb at S$998.<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Article written by Chester Tan (<a href="http://musicphotolife.com/">http://musicphotolife.com/</a>)</span></i><div class="blogger-post-footer">Original article published in http://musicphotolife.com/ . Copyright by Chester Tan.</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09903396787688350549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36994309.post-5016977759699191212015-02-17T08:48:00.000+08:002015-02-17T08:48:19.777+08:00Sound Blaster JAM: Sounds Better Than It Looks<div class="hreview">
Creative's PR agency, August Consulting, informed me of a new audio product available in Singapore, called the Sound Blaster JAM. Doing my part to support local brand, I agreed to take in for a review.<br />
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The product arrived in a sealed packaging with perforated rear panel that requires ripping apart. The headset itself is constructed entirely of plastic mould, devoid of any padding around the headband or design detail. The speaker units do not even have any joints for tilting to fit your ears. It looks deceivingly low-spec. <br />
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Yet, this headset is NFC-capable, Bluetooth-enabled, has a 12-hour battery life, supports voice calls. Its speakers are made of 32mm Neodymium drivers that pumps 20-20,000Hz audio, it has a Bass enhancement button, volume button, power-play-pause-call-pair multi-button.<br />
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The overall impression of the Sound Blaster JAM: highly-detailed, somewhat exaggerated, but not overbearing treble, and relatively balanced but not strong bass. Turning on the bass enhancement provides some boom to the mid bass volume and adds balance to the biased treble, but still does not deliver the mega-bass feel. Audio is roomy and wide but the left-right channels felt detached. The on-ear headphones do not offer sound isolation both ways (ambient noises are audible, and people around you could hear sound leaks from the headset), but it feels exceedingly comfortable to wear, as the weightlessness bears no stress over your head or on your ears. <br />
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The JAM does not come with 3.5mm audio jack, so the only wired listening option is via the standard micro-USB cable which is included in the package. Plug it to any computer and you will get digital audio. Install the Sound Blaster JAM software and it will further enhance the audio output, adjustable to individual taste.<br />
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I like that you do not need to turn on the headset to pair using NFC. Simply bring both devices together and the Sound Blaster JAM springs to life, waiting for you to accept the pairing on the smartphone. The headset can store a few devices and you can easily switch connection with multiple devices manually without having to re-pair again.<br />
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Conclusion</h3>
The Sound Blaster JAM is a budget headset with all the wireless features you can expect only from a mid-priced wireless headphones. It does not offer premium sound quality and balance that critical listeners demand. The speaker drivers are tuned to deliver sparkling mid-treble, ideal for instrumental and jazz. The bass enhancements gives the lower frequency some boost but only for the feel and not for details. Now selling at an introductory price of S$69 at the <a href="http://sg.creative.com/p/headphones-headsets/sound-blaster-jam" target="_blank">Creative e-Store</a>, it makes a great gift for anyone trying out wireless audio and voice calls for the first time.<br />
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Specs</h3>
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<li>32 mm Neodymium drivers</li>
<li>Bluetooth® 4.1, SBC , FastStream</li>
<li>NFC support with Advanced Multi-point connnection.</li>
<li>Bluetooth Profiles: A2DP (Wireless Stereo Bluetooth), AVRCP (Bluetooth Remote Control), HFP (Hands-Free Profile)</li>
<li>Bluetooth Operating Range: Up to 15 meters</li>
<li>Built-in remote control - play, pause, volume and answer call</li>
<li>One-tap Bass Enhancement to add extra punch</li>
<li>USB audio streaming from PC and Mac with SBX Pro Studio enhancement</li>
<li>Lithium Ion Battery: 3.7 V 200 mAh</li>
<li>Up to 12 hrs of playtime</li>
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Reviewed by <span class="reviewer">Chester Tan</span> (<a href="http://musicphotolife.com/">http://musicphotolife.com/</a>)<br />
Rating: <span class="rating">3</span> of 5</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Original article published in http://musicphotolife.com/ . Copyright by Chester Tan.</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09903396787688350549noreply@blogger.com0