Geekazine

If you’re trying to get better audio for your interviews, VLOGS, and more that won’t break your bank, our friends at Comica might have the answer. They have a host of audio devices that will help you capture the sound you need. Such as the Comica CVM-AX1 audio mixer – a sub-$100 device that is perfect for many video and even simple audio capture needs.

Comica CVM-AX1 Features

Using 3.5mm connections, you can attach boom mics, lavaliers, and even wireless microphones to the audio mixer. There are three inputs, Left – Right- Stereo. You can set the audio device to Stereo or Mono input into your camera. Two volume dials to mix in the two channels, with the stereo channel slaved to both dials.

switch between line, mic, and 3V for the device you need. Line for amplified devices (like an MP3 player), mic for self-powered microphones (such as a wireless device), and a 3V phantom for those microphones without power needing an extra boost.

On the device is 3 shoe slots to attach mics, lights, or whatever you need. On he bottom is dual screw mounts so you can attach the shoe adapter, set on a camera frame, or attach it directly to a tripod.

The device is run on 2- AAA batteries.

Overall Use of the CVM-AX1

In the video, I ran one of many tests using a wired microphone, my Rode shotgun mic, and my Sony wireless lav. I also mixed the environment with all three to show how different they can react  to each other.

Thoughts on CVM-AX1

It works best if you have the same microphones attached, along with a powered boom. Missing is a phase option, so it’s best to record in stereo mode as much as possible. For the $60 price tag, it does the job for simple recordings. You can also set it up for binaural recording to capture the sound of a room.

Get the Comica CVM-AX1 at Amazon. Check out the Comica Website.

*Product was supplied for review by Comica. All opinions are of Geekazine. Check out Geekazine.com/review for more information.

If you’re trying to get better audio for your interviews, VLOGS, and more that won’t break your bank, our friends at Comica might have the answer. They have a host of audio devices that will help you capture the sound you need. Such as the Comica CVM-AX1 audio mixer – a sub-$100 device that is perfect for many video and even simple audio capture needs.

Comica CVM-AX1 Features

Using 3.5mm connections, you can attach boom mics, lavaliers, and even wireless microphones to the audio mixer. There are three inputs, Left – Right- Stereo. You can set the audio device to Stereo or Mono input into your camera. Two volume dials to mix in the two channels, with the stereo channel slaved to both dials.

switch between line, mic, and 3V for the device you need. Line for amplified devices (like an MP3 player), mic for self-powered microphones (such as a wireless device), and a 3V phantom for those microphones without power needing an extra boost.

On the device is 3 shoe slots to attach mics, lights, or whatever you need. On he bottom is dual screw mounts so you can attach the shoe adapter, set on a camera frame, or attach it directly to a tripod.

The device is run on 2- AAA batteries.

Overall Use of the CVM-AX1

In the video, I ran one of many tests using a wired microphone, my Rode shotgun mic, and my Sony wireless lav. I also mixed the environment with all three to show how different they can react  to each other.

Thoughts on CVM-AX1

It works best if you have the same microphones attached, along with a powered boom. Missing is a phase option, so it’s best to record in stereo mode as much as possible. For the $60 price tag, it does the job for simple recordings. You can also set it up for binaural recording to capture the sound of a room.

Get the Comica CVM-AX1 at Amazon. Check out the Comica Website.

*Product was supplied for review by Comica. All opinions are of Geekazine. Check out Geekazine.com/review for more information.

HP announced a new series of printers in the Tango line today. What are being called as “Smart Bookshelf Printers”, these are devices that can be stored away when not in use, and full active when plugged in and turned on. All from a printer that looks like a book on the shelf. These printers are ready to print out photos and documents, and with the HP Instant Ink program, you will be able to save on your cartridge refills.

Tango and Tango X from HP

The Tango X looks like a book on a shelf, with it’s smaller, compact design. The Tango series is meant for easy printing from whatever device you setup. Designed for your smart lifestyle, and ready to print when you need it.

While the Tango does not have the cover like the Tango X, it still has all the print capabilities. Simply plug in, setup, and go.

Works with Alexa, Google and IFTTT

Print out shopping lists, photos, calendar items, and more by simply asking Alexa or Google to do so. All you have to do is enable the skill, and you’re good to go. Create recipes with IFTTT for a more automated print. For example, when the alarm rings, it could print out your agenda for the day.

Borderless Prints

Print out those 5×7 images without borders, as the Tango and Tango X can handle that.

HP Instant Ink

With your Tango, you qualify for Instant Ink – a program that will monitor your print cartridges, and send new ones when you need it. There is even a free plan so if you print less than 15 pages a month, you can still get refill cartridges when you need it. All with free shipping.

HP Tango X Unbox

Check out the unboxing video with this product:

HP Tango Price

The Tango is $149 and Tango X will be $199. Both printers will be available in October 2018. Head to HP for more information.

HP announced a new series of printers in the Tango line today. What are being called as “Smart Bookshelf Printers”, these are devices that can be stored away when not in use, and full active when plugged in and turned on. All from a printer that looks like a book on the shelf. These printers are ready to print out photos and documents, and with the HP Instant Ink program, you will be able to save on your cartridge refills.

Tango and Tango X from HP

The Tango X looks like a book on a shelf, with it’s smaller, compact design. The Tango series is meant for easy printing from whatever device you setup. Designed for your smart lifestyle, and ready to print when you need it.

While the Tango does not have the cover like the Tango X, it still has all the print capabilities. Simply plug in, setup, and go.

Works with Alexa, Google and IFTTT

Print out shopping lists, photos, calendar items, and more by simply asking Alexa or Google to do so. All you have to do is enable the skill, and you’re good to go. Create recipes with IFTTT for a more automated print. For example, when the alarm rings, it could print out your agenda for the day.

Borderless Prints

Print out those 5×7 images without borders, as the Tango and Tango X can handle that.

HP Instant Ink

With your Tango, you qualify for Instant Ink – a program that will monitor your print cartridges, and send new ones when you need it. There is even a free plan so if you print less than 15 pages a month, you can still get refill cartridges when you need it. All with free shipping.

HP Tango X Unbox

Check out the unboxing video with this product:

HP Tango Price

The Tango is $149 and Tango X will be $199. Both printers will be available in October 2018. Head to HP for more information.

VIZIO announced their new line of Home Theater Sound Bar systems with Dolby Atmos. I’ve had the 36 inch home theater for the last month, learning more about this great system and all the features it offers. I paired it with my VIZIO 50 inch TV to use the optical, along with HDMI ARC features, and the result was a home theater that gives me an immersive experience.

Bill Baxter, Chief Technology Officer, VIZIO, announced the sound bar. “This next iteration of audio solutions to hit retailers offers consumers an immersive cinema-quality home audio experience thanks to hardware advancements such as upward-firing speakers that allow sound to reflect off the ceiling and truly encapsulate listeners”

VIZIO 36 Inch Sound Bar with Dolby Atmos

VIZIO creates a “dome” effect with upward firing speakers in the sound bar, and a wireless satellite speaker system with Subwoofer to be placed behind you. With many ways to connect – Optical, HDMI, Bluetooth, Ethernet, and through 3.5mm cable, you can not only listen to powerful Dolby Atmos sound from your TV, you can also listen from your other devices, including smartphone.

Dolby Atmos

This is the first of 3 new sound bars that will have Atmos inside (46 inch models coming soon). The bar also has DTS Virtual X, and DTS Master Audio.

HDMI ARC

This is a technology that sends audio through HDMI cable to the soundbar. It also allows you to connect other boxes like Roku or Fire TV, games like XBox One or PS4, and the sound will re-route to the bar. Your TV does need to be ARC compatible.

Google Chromecast Inside

With Chromecast inside the VIZIO sound bar system, you can connect to your Google Home and play music and podcasts through your favorite app. Spotify, Pandora, Stitcher, and more.

Unbox of VIZO 36 Inch Sound Bar

You can check out the unbox I did on this soundbar when I first got it.

Overall Thoughts

This is a great sound bar for a living room or small home theater. The device tunes in quickly, and can be controlled through your favorite remote, or the Smartcast app.

Zoie found a way to stop the sound when she sat on the buttons. I had to reset the bar to get it back up. Therefore, you might want to mount it where cats cannot sit upon.

The 36 inch sound bar is available for $499.99 at Best Buy, Walmart, and more. Perfect gift for the upcoming holiday season.

I was given product for this review, but all opinions are of my own. Go to Geekazine.com/review for more information.

VIZIO announced their new line of Home Theater Sound Bar systems with Dolby Atmos. I’ve had the 36 inch home theater for the last month, learning more about this great system and all the features it offers. I paired it with my VIZIO 50 inch TV to use the optical, along with HDMI ARC features, and the result was a home theater that gives me an immersive experience.

Bill Baxter, Chief Technology Officer, VIZIO, announced the sound bar. “This next iteration of audio solutions to hit retailers offers consumers an immersive cinema-quality home audio experience thanks to hardware advancements such as upward-firing speakers that allow sound to reflect off the ceiling and truly encapsulate listeners”

VIZIO 36 Inch Sound Bar with Dolby Atmos

VIZIO creates a “dome” effect with upward firing speakers in the sound bar, and a wireless satellite speaker system with Subwoofer to be placed behind you. With many ways to connect – Optical, HDMI, Bluetooth, Ethernet, and through 3.5mm cable, you can not only listen to powerful Dolby Atmos sound from your TV, you can also listen from your other devices, including smartphone.

Dolby Atmos

This is the first of 3 new sound bars that will have Atmos inside (46 inch models coming soon). The bar also has DTS Virtual X, and DTS Master Audio.

HDMI ARC

This is a technology that sends audio through HDMI cable to the soundbar. It also allows you to connect other boxes like Roku or Fire TV, games like XBox One or PS4, and the sound will re-route to the bar. Your TV does need to be ARC compatible.

Google Chromecast Inside

With Chromecast inside the VIZIO sound bar system, you can connect to your Google Home and play music and podcasts through your favorite app. Spotify, Pandora, Stitcher, and more.

Unbox of VIZO 36 Inch Sound Bar

You can check out the unbox I did on this soundbar when I first got it.

Overall Thoughts

This is a great sound bar for a living room or small home theater. The device tunes in quickly, and can be controlled through your favorite remote, or the Smartcast app.

Zoie found a way to stop the sound when she sat on the buttons. I had to reset the bar to get it back up. Therefore, you might want to mount it where cats cannot sit upon.

The 36 inch sound bar is available for $499.99 at Best Buy, Walmart, and more. Perfect gift for the upcoming holiday season.

I was given product for this review, but all opinions are of my own. Go to Geekazine.com/review for more information.

Preparing food for a fast lifestyle is difficult sometimes. You end up getting a burger and fries, or take out. Small kitchens can also play a part in your cooking habits, and trying to entertain friends for parties can be tricky. Sous Vide is a great way to prepare food, and the process has been around for centuries. We look at the AuAg Sous Vide cooker, as I make myself some great food.

What is Sous Vide

Otherwise known as Cryovac, the term is french for “Under Vacuum”. The idea is to take all air out of the area and let the hot water cook the food. Taking out all air allows for a full immersion, so the food evenly cooks. The lack of air also keeps bacteria from growing on the food – perfect for cooking now, serving later.

This is a process that has been around for centuries. Of course, with technology comes smaller and better versions.

Advantages to Sous Vide

Heat immersion does not require a hot plate or stove. You can use a pot, or a plastic container that simply holds water at temperatures of up to 190 degrees Fahrenheit.

It also can tenderize tougher meats by cooking longer without overcooking. A 12 hour steak will be easier to cut into than a 6 hour steak.

Sous Vide vs. Slow Cooker

A slow cooker allows for you to make, then eat. A Sous Vide can do that, but also is easier to make, then store food for future meals.

The AuAg Sous Vide with Leakage Protection Switch

This cooker is a little larger than most Sous Vide devices on the market, but has a couple advantages. The Leakage Protection switch will protect from overload. The AuAg can cook for up to 99 hours if needed. This is perfect if you’re continually cooking different items. Keep in mind – you can have several items cooking if there is enough space.

The top display contains touch options, and a knob operated dashboard. simply hold down the menu button for 2 seconds, then turn the dial for the pre-set items. If you want to cook longer or shorter, hold down the time control, then change the hours or minutes. Finally, you can change the temperature the same way for a faster or slower cook.

Get the AuAg Sous Vide

 

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Sous Vide Accessories

Must Have for a better cooking experience

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Preparing food for a fast lifestyle is difficult sometimes. You end up getting a burger and fries, or take out. Small kitchens can also play a part in your cooking habits, and trying to entertain friends for parties can be tricky. Sous Vide is a great way to prepare food, and the process has been around for centuries. We look at the AuAg Sous Vide cooker, as I make myself some great food.

What is Sous Vide

Otherwise known as Cryovac, the term is french for “Under Vacuum”. The idea is to take all air out of the area and let the hot water cook the food. Taking out all air allows for a full immersion, so the food evenly cooks. The lack of air also keeps bacteria from growing on the food – perfect for cooking now, serving later.

This is a process that has been around for centuries. Of course, with technology comes smaller and better versions.

Advantages to Sous Vide

Heat immersion does not require a hot plate or stove. You can use a pot, or a plastic container that simply holds water at temperatures of up to 190 degrees Fahrenheit.

It also can tenderize tougher meats by cooking longer without overcooking. A 12 hour steak will be easier to cut into than a 6 hour steak.

Sous Vide vs. Slow Cooker

A slow cooker allows for you to make, then eat. A Sous Vide can do that, but also is easier to make, then store food for future meals.

The AuAg Sous Vide with Leakage Protection Switch

This cooker is a little larger than most Sous Vide devices on the market, but has a couple advantages. The Leakage Protection switch will protect from overload. The AuAg can cook for up to 99 hours if needed. This is perfect if you’re continually cooking different items. Keep in mind – you can have several items cooking if there is enough space.

The top display contains touch options, and a knob operated dashboard. simply hold down the menu button for 2 seconds, then turn the dial for the pre-set items. If you want to cook longer or shorter, hold down the time control, then change the hours or minutes. Finally, you can change the temperature the same way for a faster or slower cook.

Get the AuAg Sous Vide

 

Sous Vide Accessories

Must Have for a better cooking experience

IK Multimedia makes innovative solutions for the musician in digital and acoustic fashions. The iRig Acoustic is one of those great devices that change the way your guitar sounds. Add to it the Amplitube Acoustic app, and you can give your stringed instrument a new sound.

iRig Acoustic Pickup

A simple clip-on pickup that affixes to the bottom side of the sound hole. The pickup is a MicroElectrical-Mechanical System (MEMS) microphone. The microphone gives you a clear and concise audio capture. This is different than a piezzo pickup, adding a brighter sound. But if you have a piezzo pickup, this can add to your overall sound.

iRig Acoustic Stage

The bodypack is a simple device that can focus on brightness or warmth. You can also choose between a metal or nylon string sound. A phase shift on-board allows for your guitar sound to get through. It also adds a digital feedback option to control the pickup from speakers or other possible stage issues. The pack ican also be connected via USB to a recording device.

iRig Amplitube Acoustic

This is the iOS software to model your guitar more. You can choose between solid state or tube amps, and get a host of pedals to give your acoustic guitar more life. I really like the Bass guitar, 12-string, and body modeler to make the guitar sound like a bassist is playing along. Amplitube is free, and comes with many in-app purchases, such as drummer, tuner, and track recorder. Get Amplitube Acoustic here.

IK Multimedia makes innovative solutions for the musician in digital and acoustic fashions. The iRig Acoustic is one of those great devices that change the way your guitar sounds. Add to it the Amplitube Acoustic app, and you can give your stringed instrument a new sound.

iRig Acoustic Pickup

A simple clip-on pickup that affixes to the bottom side of the sound hole. The pickup is a MicroElectrical-Mechanical System (MEMS) microphone. The microphone gives you a clear and concise audio capture. This is different than a piezzo pickup, adding a brighter sound. But if you have a piezzo pickup, this can add to your overall sound.

iRig Acoustic Stage

The bodypack is a simple device that can focus on brightness or warmth. You can also choose between a metal or nylon string sound. A phase shift on-board allows for your guitar sound to get through. It also adds a digital feedback option to control the pickup from speakers or other possible stage issues. The pack ican also be connected via USB to a recording device.

iRig Amplitube Acoustic

This is the iOS software to model your guitar more. You can choose between solid state or tube amps, and get a host of pedals to give your acoustic guitar more life. I really like the Bass guitar, 12-string, and body modeler to make the guitar sound like a bassist is playing along. Amplitube is free, and comes with many in-app purchases, such as drummer, tuner, and track recorder. Get Amplitube Acoustic here.