Product Description
Tivoli Audio The SongBook incorporates a highly sensitive digital AM/FM tuner for clear and precise reception, as well as an adjustable, telescoping FM antenna and built-in AM antenna. Stations may be tuned manually or via five favorite station preset buttons; and for travelers who may not know what local stations are available, the radio also features a "seek" function to automatically search for signals in any country around the world. Its weather-resistant cabinet is perfect for outdoor use.
Amazon.com Review
Tivoli Audio has made waves in the audio field with the retro look of models such as the Model One Henry Kloss Table Radio and the iPod-inspired iPAL Portable Audio Laboratory AM/FM Radio. The SongBook AM/FM Radio breaks that mold slightly, opting for a simple, yet fun, look and feel. And like all Tivoli Audio products, the SongBook deserves accolades for the surprisingly rich sound it is able to produce despite its compact size.
The Tivoli Design
The first thing that called our attention was the SongBook's brilliant color and unique texture. This is a radio clearly designed to make you feel happy by just looking at it and holding it. With the options of several, bright elementary colors (Black, Blue, Red, Silver, White, Green, Yellow) that make you want to reach for your crayons, the SongBook truly makes a statement. It's a radio that you'll definitely want to take to the beach, and it's a radio that makes you long for summer days all year around.
But Tivoli Audio knows that good design involves far more than color. The radio is coated with a unique, rubberized texture, and the dials and displays are all sealed so that a sudden rain shower or a little sand won't interfere with performance. We're not suggesting that you surf the waves with your SongBook, or bury it in the walls of your sand castle, but a little of Mother Nature here and there won't bother this baby.
Weighing in at three-and-a-half pounds, and with dimensions slightly smaller than that of a hardcover book, the SongBook is designed with portability in mind. The minimalist front-face design -- a round, metal mesh covering the (surprisingly robust) 2.5-inch driver, and several rubberized button and knobs are the only elements in view -- harkens back to early portable radio designs. Five presets, two tuning buttons, a rotary volume control, a function knob (OFF/AM/FM/AUX), and buttons for the alarm, sleep, time set, and back light functions are all clearly and conveniently laid out. The radio's LCD (with an on-demand blue back light) sits directly above the speaker. Meanwhile, three standard 3.5-millimeter inputs are set on the radio's side -- an auxiliary line-in port for plugging in your iPod or other music device, a port for AC/DC power, and a headphone input. All the ports feature strong, attached rubber plugs that keep out the elements when they're not in use. A rear keyhole cut-out for wall hanging is set into the back, and a single telescopic metal antenna is set into its own groove on top of the radio.
Because the SongBook is designed for the elements, the battery compartment is tightly sealed and requires a coin or screwdriver to open. Once opened, you can easily access the two switches (alkaline/rechargeable and 9k/10k) that offer options for the battery source. You can also choose U.S. or international AM reception here. The only design element missing is a handle, but Tivoli offers an optional, color coordinated SongBook Carry Bag to make up for that.
Giving it a Listen
As with other Tivoli products we've reviewed, the sound of the SongBook is remarkably strong for such a small unit. Granted, you don't get stereo sound, but competing designs that offer stereo speakers in a small package don't offer that much stereo separation anyway. Reception came in loud and clear on all the area AM and FM stations, with both AC and DC power. The only glitch, which we were able to repeat in two separate locations, was occasional outside interference that broke up broadcasts with a brief screech. All in all, though, we were happy with the sound of every genre of music we listened to, as well as talk radio. The auxiliary input was great, too, for listening to MP3s from a portable music source.
In addition to good sound quality, we found the presets, time set, alarm, and tuning/search functions impeccable. Everything was so intuitive that we barely needed to consult the manual. Another bonus we liked: The SongBook comes with a handy internal recharger, so you have the option of using rechargeable batteries without the inconvenience of having to carry around a separate recharger.
Tivoli clearly decided early on not to reinvent the wheel with respect to portable radios. Instead, they put their energies into making an easy-to-use, rugged, yet playful, radio. Audiophiles, beach-goers, and general radio listeners of the world should unite in praise.
Pros
- Rugged yet playful and colorful design
- Simple, intuitive functionality
Cons
- It's a radio with the price-tag of a much more advanced device
- Lack of a handle somewhat limits its portability
Customer Reviews:
So far Tivoli gives great music!.......2007-05-31
I just purchased this radio in white. I bought it to use around the house, not for travel. Also since I just unpacked and plugged in the radio today, I have not had an opportunity to use the alarm clock or battery charging functions. Other reviews on this radio spoke of the quality of sound and of good reception. I had tried without success to listen to a favorite FM radio station where I live. The signal could be picked up in my car but not in radios inside our house. The Tivoli Songbook did the trick! I can now hear my favorite music! Although I am not quite the audiophiles that some reviewers are, the quality of sound is fine for me! Also I like the radio's design. It's sleek -- cool! The fact that it has the rubberized casing and is water resistant is icing on the cake. I also like the option of hanging it on the wall although mine will likely be sitting on a table or dresser instead. The station pre-sets are very convenient. Very nice job, Tivoli!
nice way to listen to ipod.......2007-05-20
Great tuner. Pre-sets are very nice. Great way to listen to ipod. Need to buy connector wire to plug ipod into aux input, and can't charge ipod using this device, but speaker is fine and nice to have option of switching from ipod tunes to excellent radio tuner.
Top Quality .... But at a Price........2007-03-22
Super sound, well thought-out controls, and more rugged than you might imagine. This is one fine radio. It has provided excellent performance in daily use since purchase six months ago. Only negative? Tivoli Audio's restrictive pricing policy on merchants.
Almost Perfect.......2007-01-05
When my nearly 20 year old Sony Dream Machine cube style alarm clock radio finally gave out I decided to go in search of the best night stand alarm clock radio money could buy. The requirements were design style, sound quality, reception, ease of use, and a back light that goes completely off so that I can sleep at night. After a good deal of research I zeroed in on the Tivoli SongBook ($159) and the Sangean Sonido ($99). After trying both, here's what I've found:
The Tivoli SongBook has very attractive, modern styling (I prefer the black model), exceptional sound quality (like having a $1,000 Bose next to my bed), terrific reception (I don't even need to extend the antenna to get my favorite radio station clearly), very easy to set/update the clock and alarm times, and a back light which thankfully goes completely off. I took one star off for the SongBooks negatives - the alarm must be turned on everyday buy pushing down and holding the alarm button for a few seconds (easy to do, but I fear the day that I forget), no alarm snooze (I just turn the volume down), and the display, with or without it's beautiful blue back light turned on, is small and difficult to read, even from only a foot or so away while lying in bed.
The Sangean Sonido looks nice, though not as attractive a design as the SongBook, cost's $59 less than the SongBook, has a more readable screen than the SongBook (with back light that goes completely off), has an alarm snooze, and has an alarm that stays on from day to day. While I haven't made my final decision yet on which to keep, I'm strongly leaning toward the SongBook given the Sonido's shortcomings - to get my favorite station clearly I must extend the antenna directly upwards creating an unsightly mess, while better than a Sony Dream Machine the speaker audio quality is only about half as good as the SongBooks (I think this is what spoiled it for me), and even though the display is nicer when the radio alarm sounds the display shows the radio station number, not the time!
I hope Tivoli will improve the alarm functions in a future SongBook model update, until then I think it's still worth the $159 price tag (as long as I'm not late for a meeting because I forgot to turn the alarm on!)
Update: In the end I decided to go with the Sonido. I exchanged my first unit and the replacement had much better audio quality (though still not as good as the SongBook). The reception remains less than stellar, but while using the SongBook I was late for a meeting because of it's lack of full alarm function features, so it had to go.
Travel radio? Not really........2006-12-02
Cool design, good sound quality, but if your travel plans require a passport, definitely not the radio for you. Not mentioned anywhere on the product specifications is the fact that this radio (as seemingly do most, if not all, Tivoli products, including the expensive iSongBook "travel" radio) requires a standard US external power source, so if you were to try to plug it in, say, in your hotel in Europe, most likely you'll have one less thing to worry about when packing to return home. And of course the warranty will not cover any damages from such "improper" use. Which makes me wonder whether advertising it as a travel radio and trumpeting its AM/FM radio features made specifically "for North America AND Europe" isn't a bit misleading, if not downright fraudelent. Look elsewhere if you really need a radio to travel with.
Average customer rating:
|
Tivoli Audio SongBook AM / FM Alarm Clock Travel Radio, Silver
Manufacturer: Tivoli
ProductGroup: CE
Radios
| Portable Audio & Video
| Audio & Video
| Categories
| Electronics
| AM-FM
| Clock Radios
| HD Radios
| Headset Radios
| Replica & Nostalgia Radios
| Shortwave
| Shower Radios
| Under-Cabinet Radios
Radios
| Portable Audio & Video
| Refurbished & Used
| Special Features
| Electronics Features
| Electronics
Audio & Video
| Refurbished & Used
| Special Features
| Electronics Features
| Electronics
Product Features:
- Built in digital clock with built in alarm (wake to music or beep tone)
- Sensitive digital AM / FM tuner
- Designed by Tom DeVesto for exceptional sound
- Tune stations manually, via favorite station presets, or seek scan
- Recharging system built in for the NiMH and NiCad batteries
ASIN: B000I0Z91C |
Product Description
Smallest Tivoli Portable Radio with Big Sound
Tivoli Audio does it again. The famous premium sound quality pioneered by Henry Kloss and Tom DeVesto now comes to the most compact Tivoli Audio radio ever. The SongBook is a new travel radio with built in alarm clock that is engineered to offer exceptional sound in the company's first-ever digital portable radio.
"The SongBook is one amazing portable clock radio," marvels columnist Gary Krakow at MSNBC.com's Tech News and Reviews for January 17, 2005. "As a matter of fact, it's an amazing radio period. I've even plugged it into my home hi-fi system and used it as an FM tuner. It sounds that good."
Highly Sensitive Tuner
The SongBook incorporates a highly sensitive digital AM / FM tuner for clear and precise reception, as well as an adjustable, telescoping FM antenna and built-in AM antenna. You can tune stations manually or via five favorite station preset buttons. And for travelers who may not know what local stations are available, the SongBook also features a "seek" function to automatically search for signals in any country in the world.
The SongBook features an "on demand" blue backlit LCD display that shows the station tuning as well as the digital clock, whose functions include an alarm and 20-minute sleep timer. Auxiliary input and stereo headphone output are positioned on the side, complete with rubber covers to protect them from dust and dirt when not in use.
The one thing that isn't new about the SongBook is its sound quality. This portable boasts the same rich, full sonics that critics and consumers love in Tivoli's other audio products. The combination of advanced electronics, a wealth of features, and superb sound from a compact design makes the Songbook the ultimate travel radio. You'll want to make it your constant companion for trips around the hous
Average customer rating:
|
Nortel Networks Passport 5430 Multiservice Access Switch Req. Sys Processor
Manufacturer: Nortel Networks
ProductGroup: CE
Binding: Electronics
Switches
| Wired Networks
| Networking & Online Communication
| Computer Add-Ons
| Computers & Add-Ons
| Categories
| Electronics
ISDN
| Modems
| Computer Add-Ons
| Computers & Add-Ons
| Categories
| Electronics
ASIN: B00004ZANR |
Product Description
The Passport 5430 Enterprise Router from Nortel Networks is designed for high-end, performance-intensive "Power Branch" and network data center environments. The Power Branch is a remote office that has - through the adoption of high-bandwidth applications or end-user growth - outgrown the connectivity and performance capabilities of the traditional branch office router. The Passport 5430 solution reduces WAN operating costs by incorporating high-performance multiprotocol routing features across a choice of WAN services. The Passport 5430 Enterprise Router supports all major network and bridging protocols, wide area services, and IBM standards. It satisfies connectivity and performance requirements for remote branch and data center environments, allowing you to manage traffic to match your business needs.
Product Description
Get the same benefits of High Speed Memory Stick(R) PRO media in your compact digital device with the MSX-M1GN High Speed Memory Stick(R) PRO Duo media. Designed to support read and write speeds up to 80 megabits per second on High Speed enable devices and an increased operating temperature range of -13° F to 185° Fahrenheit, the MSX-M1GN provides you with our highest quality digital storage in a package slightly larger than a postage stamp. The MSX-M1GN is backwards compatible with most devices that use standard Memory Stick(R) PRO Duo media. With the included adaptor it can even be used in products that use Memory Stick(R) PRO media. It's perfect for compact digital cameras, camcorders, and portable audio devices. Designed for high resolution compact digital cameras and compact portable audio devices
Amazon.com Product Description
Get professional quality digital storage for your compact digital device with the MSX-M1GN High Speed Memory Stick PRO Duo media from Sony. With an total storage capacity of 1 gigabyte (GB) and an available capacity of 940 MB, it is ideal for capturing high resolution digital photos and high quality video. Its high speed feature allows it to read and write data at speeds up to 80 megabits per second on enabled devices1. The MSX-M1GN is backwards compatible with most devices that use standard Memory Stick PRO Duo media. With the included adaptor it can even be used with most products that support Memory Stick PRO media. It even supports and expanded operating temperature range of -13 degrees to 185 degrees Fahrenheit, making it the perfect media choice regardless of weather conditions.
Other Features:
- Backwards compatible with devices that use Memory Stick PRO Duo media
- Included adaptor allows compatibility with Memory Stick PRO media enabled devices
- Designed especially for professional-quality compact digital cameras and portable digital music devices
Compatible Models
DCR-HC1000
DCR-HC30
DCR-HC40
DCR-HC65
DCR-HC85
DCR-IP1
DCR-PC105
DCR-PC330
DCR-PC350
DCR-TRV22
DCR-TRV33
DCR-TRV350
DCR-TRV38
DCR-TRV39
DCR-TRV70
DCR-TRV80
DSC-F717
DSC-F828
DSC-F88
DSC-L1
DSC-M1
DSC-P10
DSC-P100
DSC-P100/LJ
DSC-P100/R
DSC-P150
DSC-P200
DSC-P32
DSC-P41
DSC-P52
DSC-P72
DSC-P73
DSC-P8
DSC-P92
DSC-P93
DSC-T1
DSC-T33
DSC-U30
DSC-U40
DSC-U40/B
DSC-U40/LJ
DSC-U40/R
DSC-U50
DSC-U50/B
DSC-U50/D
DSC-U60
DSC-V1
DSC-V3
|
DSC-W1
DSC-W1/B
HDPS-M1
LCH-MA
MSAC-M2
MSAC-MCF1N
MSAC-PC3
MSAC-US30
MSAC-US70
PCG-FRV26
PCG-FRV37
PCG-GRT240G
PCG-GRT250PL
PCG-GRT260G
PCG-GRT270G
PCG-GRT270P21
PCG-GRT280ZG
PCG-GRT290ZP27
PCG-GRT380ZG
PCG-K12P
PCG-K13
PCG-K15
PCG-K17
PCG-K23
PCG-K25
PCG-K27
PCG-TR2A
PCG-TR2AP1
PCG-TR2AP3
PCG-TR3A
PCG-TR3AP1
PCG-TR3AP2
PCG-TR3AP3
PCG-TR5AP
PCG-V505DC11
PCG-V505DC1P7
PCG-V505DX
PCG-V505DXP
PCG-Z1RAP1
PCG-Z1VA
PCG-Z1VAP1
PCV-MXS20
PCV-RS430G
PCV-RS530G
PCV-RS620G
PCV-RS630G
PCV-RX650
|
PCV-RX651
PCV-RX660
PCV-RX670
PCV-RX680G
PCV-RX690G
PCV-RX730
PCV-RX750
PCV-RX752
PCV-RX755
PCV-RX760
PCV-RX770
PCV-RX780G
PCV-RX790G
PCV-RX830/B
PCV-RX850
PCV-RX851/B
PCV-RX860
PCV-RX881/B
PCV-RXA842
PCV-RZ14G
PCV-RZ16G
PCV-RZ16G/B
PCV-RZ22G
PCV-RZ24G
PCV-RZ26G
PCV-RZ44G
PCV-RZ45G
PCV-RZ54G
PCV-RZ56G
PCV-V300G
PCV-V310P
PCV-W10
PCV-W20
PCV-W30
PCV-W500GN1
PCV-W510G
PCV-W700G
PEGA-VR100K
USM-128B
VGC-RA710G
VGC-RA810G
VGN-A150
VGN-A160
VGN-A190
VGN-S150
VGN-S150P
VPL-HS20
|
Customer Reviews:
Beware of counterfeits!!!.......2007-08-04
I purchased the M1GN through an Amazon associate and received the expected red and black card in the Sony M1GN packaging. The card looks legit however the rear of the card was stamped MSX-M1GST (their low speed model). Software analysis of the file transfer rate shows 15-20 m/sec consistent with their low speed cards. If you are purchasing this for a digicam or camcorder to get the higher frame rates provided by the high speed version, you won't. I contacted Sony and they are aware these cards are a serious problem. Google "MSX-M1GN" and "fake" and you will see how huge this problem really is. If the price is too good to be true, it probably isn't true (as I have just discovered).
Sony High Speed Memory Stick Pro Duo.......2007-04-04
Very good product with prompt shipping. Highly recommend.
It Was worth buying.......2007-03-24
i liked the item, wasnt much faster then non high speed memory sticks, but its good with me
Excellent Product.......2007-01-03
I have extremely satisfied with this product. It's working great and i can capture atleast 250-300 snaps of 6M pixels.
Best Buy!!!!!!!!
Very good and fast........2007-01-01
I bought for use with my camera Sony DSCH5 and it works very well, it`s faster for download from camera to the computer and for delete the pictures it`s faster too.
If you have a Sony camera it`s a good memory stick and comes for free a adapter and you can use the same memory stick at the playstation.
Product Description
High-Speed data transfer! Memory Stick flash cards are a small, lightweight storage solution that is easy to use, easy to store and virtually indestructible! With 1 gigabyte capacity, this Sony MSX-M1GN Memory Stick Pro Duo card offers plenty of storage for digital cameras, PSP (PlayStation Portable) handheld systems or MP3 music players!
Average customer rating:
- OJO Video Phone
- The "Jetson" future is here! A fantastic product.
- Italy and America closer NOW
- Too expensive, get MSN Messenger which is free
- Greedy Motorola...
|
Worldgate Ojo Personal Video Phone (PVP-1000)
Manufacturer: Worldgate
ProductGroup: CE
Binding: Electronics
Video Phones
| Telephones
| Office Electronics
| Categories
| Electronics
IP Phones
| Telephony
| Networking & Online Communication
| Computer Add-Ons
| Computers & Add-Ons
| Categories
| Electronics
For the One With Everything
| Gift Ideas
| Gift Ideas
| Specialty Stores
| Electronics Features
| Electronics
Gadget Lovers
| Gift Ideas
| Gift Ideas
| Specialty Stores
| Electronics Features
| Electronics
For the Whole Family
| Gift Ideas
| Gift Ideas
| Specialty Stores
| Electronics Features
| Electronics
Toys for Grownups
| Gift Ideas
| Gift Ideas
| Specialty Stores
| Electronics Features
| Electronics
Office Electronics
| Refurbished & Used
| Special Features
| Electronics Features
| Electronics
Phones
| Refurbished & Used
| Special Features
| Electronics Features
| Electronics
Motorola
| Brands
| Electronics Features
| Electronics
Telephones
| Electronics
| Categories
| Target
Similar Items:
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Linksys WRT54G Wireless-G Router
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Accessories:
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Belkin A3L791-S 50-Foot RJ45 CAT 5e Snagless Molded Patch Cable (Gray)
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Arista 24-4960 Flat 4-Conductor Telephone Line Cord ( Ivory ) - 100 Feet
Product Features:
- 2.4 GHz frequency, digital and analog signal compatibility
- Base video phone, 1 cordless handset with 6-hour talk time
- 5.6-inch backlit LCD panel with 176 x 144 resolution
- TCP/IP 10/100 Base-T network ready; designed for broadband use
- Digital speakerphone; picture-based caller ID and phonebook
ASIN: B00098175K |
Product Description
Think of the people you talk to all the time, but don't see enough of. Kids. Grandkids. Close relatives and friends. Whoever and wherever those people are, they are the reason for Ojo. With Ojo, seeing everyone you love is just a phone call away. There have been other videophones before but this one displays fully synchronized images at a lifelike 30 frames per second in sharp color, accompanied by superior sound.
Ojo works over a high-speed cable or DSL modem, and also uses the household's existing telephone number for both IP video calls and conventional voice calls using existing PSTN or VoIP service.
Ojo's stylish display unit houses a high-resolution 9:16 portrait-oriented 7? digital LCD screen and a state-of-the-art miniature camera for bright, clear images from both sides of the call. An Ojo call sounds as great as it looks. The audio signal is strong and clear, and Ojo has an Automatic Gain Control (AGC), full duplex echo-canceling speakerphone for great sound even when there's background noise. Captures and sends full motion video at 30 frames per second 7 inch Diagonal High-resolution 16 - 9 LCD color screen with 176x144 resolution State-of-the-art miniature camera Full-featured cordless phone handset for voice calls (up to 6 hoursd talk time per fully charged battery) Easily accessible video/audio privacy controls Latest video and audio codecs On-screen residential and business directories Price covers one Ojo Personal Videophone
Customer Reviews:
OJO Video Phone.......2007-01-11
I purchased Ojo's for my children, parents, and self for an early Christmas present and installed them in November. Overall, we have been extremely happy with the phones. Installation ranged from very easy to fairly easy on the four installations. My parents are older and I bought the Ojo in part because it appeared to be the easiest to use, and that has proven to be the case. The pictures are good, features are good, and the synchronization between voice and picture is excellent. Ojo personnel are also very helpful in installation and answering questions. The phones are a little expensive up front, but the quality and ease of use are worth the price. I recommend them highly.
The "Jetson" future is here! A fantastic product........2006-09-01
First, the bad news: the Ojo is fantastic. That's right...and it gets better from there. I'm extremely pleased with the Ojo and would never want to be without one again. In comparison, regular landline phones and webcams come up far short. Both the picture and audio quality are excellent and with no audio delay. The video messaging was automatically downloaded (free) after I bought the units. It's a great feature. The display is at a good height for viewing (no looking up peoples' noses). I was surprised that the display appears larger than it is (7" diagonally). The handset is cordless and detachable. I seldom use the handset away from the unit, but don't want to be tethered to a phone, so didn't even consider other videophones. Material and construction appear to be first-class.
I live in a remote area of West Virginia and bought four units last December (three as gifts for the people whom I talk with the most: my mother near DC, a daughter and grandson in Houston and a daughter near Los Angeles). My mother is 87 and wants to live alone, so I bought one for her so I could SEE how she's doing. Incidentally, she has trouble using her landline phone - too complicated, but the Ojo couldn't be simpler to make calls. Seeing the two daughters and grandson several times a week is great too. Now, my wife and I are integral parts of their daily lives, and vice versa. We are now able to SEE our grandson grow up! We get an Ojo call every time he loses a tooth or something significant happens. He loves to "show-and-tell" on the Ojo. Birthdays - when we can't be there - are now special events to us as well. Plus, this month, my California daughter's boyfriend asked my permission to marry her...using the Ojo. This may sound tacky, but if you've ever used the Ojo, you'd think it was completely normal. It's just like being across a table from someone.
I'm not a techie, but was able to set up the ones for my mom, one of my daughters and myself with no problems. My mom has Comcast cable, my daughter has Road Runner cable and I have Verizon DSL. I have been told that any broadband connection works. I just hooked routers to the cable and DSL modems then plugged in the Ojo's. Plug-and-Play. Later, I connected two of the Ojo's to Ethernet bridges (home plugs) which plug into any electrical outlet and can now use the Ojo's anywhere in the houses where there's an electrical outlet. The signal travels through the house wiring. I haven't noticed any loss of picture or audio quality.
I haven't had a problem with any of the four Ojo's to date, so can't say what Worldgate's customer service personnel are like, but their activation people were excellent.
By the way, Motorola is no longer the distributor. The manufacturer, Worldgate Communications, now directly distributes the Ojo's at about half of the original list. They also sell a cheaper version (less features), the Shadow.
There is a monthly service charge of $14.95 but that includes unlimited video calls to any other Ojo in the world! Sometimes we just leave it on as we do things around the house and talk as though the other person is there. To me, this sure beats flying. Plus, the cost of one flight will typically pay for two Ojo's, including service for a year.
Italy and America closer NOW.......2006-04-11
We got our OJO from our son who lives in US..It's a wonderful product I enjoy talking and seeing my grandson while his father is in office and he stays alone ? home with the nanny...I hope talking to me will alow him to learn Italian easily
LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL!!!!!
Too expensive, get MSN Messenger which is free.......2006-03-29
The Ojo fails exactly where the previous video phones have failed: it's way too expensive, even before the "generous" mail-in rebate which will take months to receive if ever. For $50 or so you can get two webcams with video and audio quality just as good as (if not better than) the Ojo and then just get MSN Messenger which is free and has the best video phone quality and features, even over slow Internet connections.
Greedy Motorola..........2006-02-14
The Ojo looks gorgeous, is beautifully finished and easy to use. The perfect machine to give your technophobic family members who are terrified of computers, for instance.
Unfortunately, these are the same people who are very unlikely to already have access to the broadband service required to get videoconferencing, and it may be difficult to justify the price of a broadband connection simply for the videophone.
The pricing model is leaving me baffled. Usually service providers such as satellite TV and cell phone carriers sponsor the purchase of devices and give you a kickback in exchange for a service committment. Not so with Motorola, who not only wants to collect money up front but also charges an outrageous monthly fee for what is nothing more than a live directory service (which instant messaging companies would have been glad to provide for free, like AOL does for Apple's iChat).
Although the VoIP interoperability is commendable, it makes the lack of interoperability with common videoconferencing protocols an even more glaring omission.
The outrageous fee Motorola requires to enable the Ojo's videophone feature makes it very hard to recommend when you can get a brand new iMac G5 with built-in videoconferencing camera for the price of the Ojo and a couple of years of subscription to the service.
Unfortunately, Motorola seems to have brilliant industrial design and style specialist and fantastic hardware and software engineers, but inane marketing teams who ruined the potential of a product that could have been very promising.
Still, this is probably your best pick if you need a simple videoconferencing product, are absolutely opposed to using a computer and don't mind Motorola's high price and outrageous monthly fee. But before you pull the trigger, do yourself a favor, go to an Apple store and ask for a demonstration of iChat.
Priced at $200 and without the ridiculous and unjustified $15/month fee, the Ojo would deserve five stars; but at its current price and with the added insult of the monthly fee, 3-star is a more than generous rating.
Average customer rating:
|
Nortel Networks Diva Pro 2.0 PCMCIA (S/T Interface)
Manufacturer: Nortel Networks
ProductGroup: CE
Binding: Electronics
PCMCIA Network Cards
| Notebook Adapters
| Wired Networks
| Networking & Online Communication
| Computer Add-Ons
| Computers & Add-Ons
| Categories
| Electronics
ASIN: B00004ZAJM |
Average customer rating:
|
Nortel Networks Diva Pro 2.0 PCMCIA (U Interface)
Manufacturer: Nortel Networks
ProductGroup: CE
Binding: Electronics
PCMCIA Network Cards
| Notebook Adapters
| Wired Networks
| Networking & Online Communication
| Computer Add-Ons
| Computers & Add-Ons
| Categories
| Electronics
ASIN: B00004ZAJX |
Product Description
The DIVA remote access cards deliver high-speed, transparent ISDN connectivity between standalone PCs or laptops and the enterprise network. The cards are ideal for providing remote users with high-speed access to data residing on remote LAN servers, corporate hosts, and online information services, regardless of their physical location. The DIVA cards are bundled with drivers for Windows NT, Windows 95, and Windows 3.x to allow easy migration from one operating system to another as the needs of network users change. The DIVA cards can be installed in remote PCs, providing cost-effective high-speed ISDN links to the enterprise network.
Product Description
For those who desire style combined with quality. The sleek ultra-thin metallic-on-black design will deliver high quality and reliability.PL456S is specially designed for home office and business, delivers bright, flicker free, high contrast ratio. DDC1/DDC2B allows communication between the monitor and PC system for optimal video configuration.
Amazon.com Product Description
Weighing less than five pounds and offering a slim 5-inch profile (including the base), the 14-inch Proview PL456s is well suited for dorm rooms, small home offices, or anywhere space is at a premium. It also offers a great value price if you don't need a lot of bells and whistles and don't use high-end graphic applications.
The monitor's narrow viewing angles (90 degrees horizontal, 40 degrees vertical), 1,024 x 768 resolution, and a 50-millisecond response time should stand up to word processing, web surfing, and other general-purpose tasks, though not so much to gaming and video entertainment. Happily, the PL456 offers fine 0.279-millimeter dot pitch and a 350:1 contrast ratio, so images and text should be clear, crisp, and legible.
Onscreen controls allow you to customize the panel to your heart's content, and simple plug-and-play setup and operation will have you up and running in just minutes. This model connects via a standard 15-pin D-sub cable (included) and supports its full 1,024 x 768 resolution on both PC and Power Mac platforms.
What's in the Box
Display, stand, analog signal cable, power cord, user's guide, warranty information
Customer Reviews:
Excellent value for the money !.......2005-01-22
I bought two of these monitors for my teens for Christmas.
A month later, they are still working great and they love them.
They love that they can be wall mounted and really save desk space ! They are SUPER slim !!!
(...).
Proview PL456S 14" LCD Monitor "aka" MAG Innovision LT-456s.......2005-01-11
I purchased two monitors from Best Buy during a Black Friday sale. They were labeled as "MAG Innovision LT-456s" though I later found out they are Proview PL456S. Being military I left for deployment, returned and relocated duty stations before I getting to hook these monitors up. Upon receiving my household goods I hooked up both monitors and found both with dead pixels in the center. When I contacted Proview customer support I was told that I did not have "enough" dead pixels for them to do anything about it. Each of my monitors had at least 8 dead pixels, and were located in the center, just enough to be annoying.
From my experience with Proview's customer support I can only recommend that you BE WARY of Proview and be sure to check your monitors for dead pixels and return them to your place of purchase as soon as possible for replacement or refund.
"signed"
an unhappy customer who is using a Proview monitor with dead pixels
Good quality - overall good value.......2005-01-06
I bought this 14 inch LCD monitor to replace a 17 inch CRT monitor for my 4 year old son's PC. The 17 inch monitor took up his entire desk and was in danger of tumbling the desk over at times. The LCD monitor not only is safer for him but now frees up a lot of room for him to work at his desk in our office. The quality of the monitor is good and was easy to set up. He loves it and I am happy I bought it for him.
My minimoni-tor.......2004-10-18
Very clear picture. Sharp text. easy to fit in my carry-on hand bag. I assembled my own computer using half height mini case with micro motherboard and pentium IV-HT and 1 gb dual channel memory. I found a mini keyboard that fits the bill and this mini monitor to go with it. Now I have my own mini portable computer that goes with me anywhere. Best of all it takes standard size memory. hard disk and can be upgraded any time. I can not do that with a laptop.
strange event.......2004-09-03
I bought one of these and unboxed it and hooked it up. It worked fine for a couple of weeks, then stopped. It has a little external inline power transformer which failed, (I checked it with a voltmeter) and I called Office Depot, where I purchased it. They said they don't repair them, and to contact Proview Tech Support, which I did.
Proview Tech Support completely refused to replace the transformer until THEY received it and verified that it wasn't working, at which time they would ship it back (by ground UPS only). So I was faced with a two-week downtime on my computer. After some heated argument, I finally gave in, and I shipped it because I had no alternatives.
It's been a week, and they called today and told me it's not the correct power adapter. I must have told the guy a dozen times that it's what came in the box, and that I hooked it up immediately. (I don't have any other power adapters in the house, except one for an old laptop that will not even fit in the monitor.) The box was new, with original tape seals on it, so I know it came from the factory this way.
So, they refuse to replace it. They claim it's supposed to be a 12 volt adapter, and this one that died is a 9 volt, so it's not the right voltage, or the right brand. Now I have this expensive flat panel monitor and no power supply. (They did offer to ship it back to me, and to sell me the correct adapter!!!!!!!)
So, I say to Proview: I'm never buying a Proview product again. I'm using a computer in a public library now, and I'm trying to decide what to do with a monitor that doesn't work.
My advice: stay away from anything that says Proview on it, because the "Pro" part isn't accurate.
Average customer rating:
|
Monster Cable JP KEPC PX RP-6 Keyboard Extension for PC with PS/2 (6 ft.)
Manufacturer: Monster Cable
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ASIN: B00004Y3QY |
Product Description
Monster Cable has recognized the need for higher quality computer connections, and introduced a complete line of products to optimize today's cutting-edge computer technologies while paving a path for the technologies of tomorrow.The Monster family of products includes cables for PC and Macintosh peripherals, multimedia, networking, and the Internet. All of the products are manufactured to the highest quality standards. Don't let your computer cables be the weakest link in your home or small office. Get all the performance you paid for with Monster.
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