THE
Issue 26 August 2022
Review Smiths
CONTENTS Hi there everyone! We are deep in the throes of summer now, perhaps a little too deep, the heat is nice but come on sunshine dial it back a little. We hope you have all stayed safe and comfortable during the recent heatwave, I have discovered an obvious downside of working from home and that’s the lack of office air con, however you can’t go to the office in your pj's so swings and roundabouts I guess. Anyway, we have sweated our way through another month of wonderful products, it’s been a good month for the foodies, we have got a BBQ, mincer, ice shaver and outdoor grill for fishing. We also have plenty of goodies to get you out and about in the warm weather, there are sunglasses, barefoot trail shoes, a running hydration vest and a flotation aid as well as a backpack for your four-legged friends. There’s plenty of other lovely gadgets and gizmos to check out too, so grab an ice lolly, take a break and peruse these pages at your leisure and whilst you’re at it check out our Instagram for our latest competition. Editor and chief
Managing Director Alex Hilling-Smith
Writer Dave Hicks
Senior Writer Emma Hilling-Smith
Chief Keyboard Basher Master Hilling-Smith
Writer Peter Hilling
For all media related enquiries please contact us at info@thereviewsmiths.com For Advertising Enquiries 0208 191 8472 www.thereviewsmiths.com
04. Weber Master Touch 06. KitchenAid Shave Ice Attachment 5KSMSIA 08. Loop Earplugs Experience Pro 10. NGT Double Grill Pan Non Stick 12. Dashel Re-cycle Helmet 14. Waterhaul Kynance Limited Edition Blue Carbon 16. Dóttir Freedom On-Grid Earbuds 18. Nextorch P83 20. Nextorch iStar 22. Nextorch UT22 24. Tre Spade TC-8 Inox Manual Meat Mincer 26. Speras m4 28. QuietOn 3 30. Shark Anti Hair Wrap Cordless Pet Vacuum (Double Battery) IZ320UKT 32. Vivobarefoot Magna Forest ESC 34. Horizn Studios H6 CheckIn Luggage (65L) 36. Niwaki Sentei Topiary Clippers 38. Freetrain Hydro 1 Vest 40. Lollipop Baby Camera 42. Spinlock Alto Belt Pack Floatation Aid 44. Pause Me 46. Ruffwear Palisades Dog Backpack 48. LEGO Delorean 50. Ifi Zen Air Blue HD Bluetooth dac 52. Ifi Zen Air Can Analogue Headphone Amplifier
Weber Master Touch Now that the heatwave has passed, we can get back to ‘normal’ Summer weather and break out the barbecue! With a preponderance of gas barbecues on the market (cleaner, easier but, it’s not really proper barbecuing is it?), it’s refreshing to see one that focusses on charcoal cooking and is built with this firmly in mind. It boasts a ‘new ‘smoke’ setting on the bowl vents’ meaning you can really get that lovely smoky taste in to anything you prepare and a Char-Basket so you can get that flame-grilled ‘whatever’ cooked perfectly. It comes with a host of other features that make cooking barbecued food easier. A thermometer built in to the lid allows you to monitor the temperature, there are the standard hooks for your utensils and a little feature that I really like is the ability to top up the fuel using the hinged side grates so you don’t need to mess about with removing the grill and risking burning yourself (or even worse – dropping the food!). The kettle design allows for a good distribution of heat so you get a fairly good coverage on the grill, meaning less juggling about with food that hasn’t cooked as well as other food and the grate fits snugly so no chance of actual charcoal with your lunch (although I know a few people that will bemoan this.)! It’s pretty versatile too with added extra’s you can purchase including a pizza stone and a wok. Although, if I’m being totally honest I would have preferred to see these included given the price of the barbecue itself. Finally, the bottom of the kettle has a ‘one-touch’ cleaning system allowing you to get the ash to basket without getting your hands dirty. Pricey, but it does have (most) of all the bells and whistles.
Pros Well-designed Versatile Space for an iGrill Vents for smoking. Cons extras purchases need to get the best out of it
Expensive
Charcoal barbecuing at its finest. For more information on the Weber Master Touch click here
£359
5
KitchenAid Shave Ice Attachment 5KSMSIA
As I write it is the hottest day of the year so far, it’s 31 degrees and everyone in the household is hot and bothered so we were delighted to receive the KitchenAid Shave Ice Attachment 5KSMSIA, I am ready to make a bathtub sized Daiquiri and jump right in. This accessory comes with the shave ice attachment, two blades: fine for snow and coarse for hand-shaved and four ice moulds with lids. The last thing you want when it’s hot is faffing about with awkward contraptions, luckily the Shave Ice is very easy to use. It is compatible with all the KitchenAid stand mixers and simply slots into the multipurpose attachment hub, then just pick your blade for coarse or fine shavings, pop the ice in the top and pull the lever, 60 seconds later you have your fluffy shaved ice. Where you go from here is up to you, transform the hard crunchie ice into soft, fluffy ice with different syrups, sauces, fruit, ice cream or mochi. Mix things up by freezing juice, coffee, fruit teas, or milk, instead of water or create Italian granita, Puerto Rican piraguas or Japanese kakigori, not forgetting all the cocktails you can make, the opportunities are endless. When you are finished it is easy to clean, the moulds, lids and blades are all dishwasher-safe and the attachment housing just needs a quick dip in some warm soapy water. The four ice moulds can be used to ensure you always have pre-made ice, then it’s just a case of taking the mould out of the freezer, letting it sit and temper for 10 mins, then it’s ready to shave. If you have a KitchenAid it is well worth getting this attachment for the summer, your friends and family will appreciate it too.
£129
For more information on the KitchenAid Shave Ice Attachment click here
Make a variety of ice desserts and drinks in a matter of seconds
Pros
Quick and easy to use Dishwasher proof Two blades for coarse or fine ice Four moulds for ready-made ice Fluffy ice in 60 seconds
7
Turn the world down with
£30.95
these effective noise reducing earplugs.
Loop Earplugs Experience Pro When I was younger my favourite spot at a gig was right at the front getting my ears blasted and my body battered, bigger the mosh pit and speakers the better, these days I am more sensible, and I count my lucky stars that the ringing in my ears persisted no longer than 24hours post gig. These days we are better informed about the risks of longterm hearing damage with an estimated 7.1 million people in the UK living with Tinnitus it’s important to find the balance between safety and enjoyment. The Loop Earplugs Experience Pro are discrete little earplugs that will reduce the noise level by 18 decibels evenly across the frequency range, making it suitable for loud environments but also for those who are noise sensitive or looking for less distractions in a busy home or work setting. These earplugs come with four sets of silicone ear tips (XS + S + M + L), three sets of foam ear tips (S + M + L), two sets of Loop Mute inserts for extra noise reduction and a keychain carry case, they come in Glorious Gold, Midnight Black, Swinging Silver and Rose Gold, the Mute inserts are black of white, a couple of skin tone colour options would be nice for even more discretion. The Loop Experience Pro uses both an
acoustic channel and mesh to filter, this mimics the ear's function and reduces the volume levels whilst ensuring the sound and speech remain clear, just less loud. The Loop Mute insert acts as an additional noise blocking accessory that stops sound entering the acoustic channel, this add an extra 5dB of reduction bring the total up to 23dB. They are comfortable in the ear and so snug they aren’t particularly noticeable, they can be worn with hats and helmets, they work well, its like turning the dial down on the worlds volume without loosing that detail unlike cheaper, single use earplugs that just block out all sound. The accessories could benefit from a few tweaks, like an optional neck cord, perhaps it won’t look as cool but if you drop one if these in the darkness of a lively gig, good luck finding them again. The case is fairly robust but a firmer catch to keep it shut would give us peace of mind that it won’t pop open whilst getting tossed about on a keychain. The Experience Pro are highly effective at reducing sound levels, letting you safely enjoy the sounds around you or focus your mind without shutting yourself off from the world.
Pros Comfortable Discrete Sounds and voices can still be heard
Can be worn with hats and helmets
Mimics the ears function Reduces noise by 18dB Mute insert reduces noise a further 5dB Cons No neck cord Feels slightly vulnerable on the key chain For more information on the Loop Earplugs Experience Pro click here
9
NGT Double Grill Pan Non Stick
As any of you that have read some of my reviews before know, I do like a little bit of camping every now and then. One of the things that I do miss when camping however, is my oven. It’s not something you can happily sling in the car with your tent, rucksacks etc and connect up to the mains when you get there really (not to mention trying to find natural gas pockets for the hob…) is it? Well, my culinary skills can now find themselves a decent outlet when camping! This Double Grill pan is fantastic! Firstly, it’s non-stick (rookie mistake – using abrasive pads when washing up, don’t!) which just makes life easier really. But please! DO. NOT. use metal utensils, keep it silicon, plastic or wood, you’ll thank me. Secondly, the silicon seal between the two pans basically turns this in to a mini-oven with quite a good seal keeping the heat in. As a result, things like curries, chilli’s even stews at a stretch can now be added to the camping food repertoire. The pans are sealed together by magnets in the handles and a slide-in hinge at the back and a tiny little clip for when it’s not in use. This can be easily lost, although it’s not essential if you do lose it so don’t panic. A word of warning, it can get top-heavy if you open it all the way so bear that in mind, you don’t want to lose your dinner before you’ve even tasted it! And, of course, the two pans separate so you have two pans for more conventional camp cooking. One is griddled, the other is flatter – bacon and eggs anyone? All this for the kind of price I’d be happy to pay for a decent frying pan, what’s not to like?
Pros Non-stick Portable min-oven Two pans! Affordable Cons Easy to lose the clip
Can easily unbalance when open
Take your campsite cooking to the next level.
£26.95
For more information on the NGT Double Grill Pan Non Stick click here
11
Dashel Re-cycle Helmet
So, back when I was a kid, wearing a cycle helmet was the best way to get yourself ostracised and a clear mark that you had over-protective parents. Remember those great big huge things that made your head look like some weird alien had taken over your brain? Of course, we conveniently forgot the fact that, quite simply, head protection can save your life! But hey, when you’re a kid, you feel functionally immortal right? Thankfully these days, people are a little more serious about safety and Dashel have now introduced recycling to the world of safety helmets. The helmet meets the CE EN1078 certification (European Standard – without this, it wouldn’t be safe enough to sell) and (this is the best bit in my opinion), it’s completely recyclable. Dashel (pronounced Dash-le by the way – it’s a Cornish word for Thistle) will happily do the recycling bit for you and, in exchange, you’ll get a discount on your next one! It arrives in a re-usable drawstring bag and recyclable cardboard box so the impact on the environment is almost negligible. And, unlike cycle helmets of old, this one doesn’t make you look like you have an enlarged head. In fact, so far removed from the old cycle helmets are these that I think it’s fair to say people will no longer be so embarrassed at their efforts to stay alive! I can’t speak for kids however, I’m not one of those anymore, no matter how hard I try… The only thing I’m not entirely sure about, especially with this colour, is that it puts me in mind of an old World War II helmet… But, if a design is good enough to keep people alive in a warzone, I can’t see a problem with that!
Fully recyclable cycling helmet
Pros Meets stringent safety standards £79 Fully recyclable Pads are machine-washable Looks far better than most on the market. Cons You’ll have to resist the fancy dress option, unlike Prince Harry that one time
For more information on the Dashel Re-Cycle Helmet click here
13
Waterhaul Kynance Limited Edition Blue Carbon Since 2018 Waterhaul have been working hard to remove the most lethal form of plastic in our oceans, fishing nets, and turning them into sunglasses, not only that but each purchase of the Limited-Edition Blue Carbon sunglasses funds the SeaTree's mangrove conservation efforts in Indonesia. Mangrove Forests are five times as efficient at storing carbon from our atmosphere than tropical rainforests, they also help to create critical habitats for threatened marine life and protect the islands from storm surges and rising sea levels. Each purchase plants five mangrove trees in these areas which are known to be rich in what's called "Blue Carbon" hence the name. These frames are made from 0% virgin plastics and 100% recycled fishing nets and lines from Cornwall, they are engineered and hand-finished in Italy. These unisex circular shades suit most small to medium size faces, particularly narrower face shapes (the Crantock model is better suited for larger face shapes). They come with a ‘Recycle and Replace’ lifetime guarantee, damaged frames can go back into the plastic recycling loop to create new pairs and Waterhaul will replace and recycle your frames for free, forever. The Blue Carbon come in an attractive matte slate grey finish as a nod to the materials origins, they use reliable, ultra-durable three-barrel hinges, and offer a good amount of flexibility, a snug fit and are comfortable across the nose. They come with Barberini polarised glass lenses, the world's most premium and sustainable lenses, (known for making opticals for Maui Jim and the like). These glass lenses were chosen for their optical quality, the mineral glass offers the greatest optical clarity with an Abbe value of 59 (vs. 32 for polycarbonate), they are also scratch resistant making them perfect for the beach and provide UVA/UVB 400 protection. Waterhaul lets you try the shades on before committing with a 30-day free trial at home and the option to exchange or return if they are not for you. It is obvious the Kynance have been conscientiously created, even down to the free sustainable cork tri-folding protective case and plastic-free and 100% recyclable packaging. If I was desperate to find something to pick on its that there is not an eco-friendly microfibre lens cleaning cloth included, come on Waterhaul we know if anyone can make this happen it is you guys. They have achieved what some many have failed to do, the perfect combination of a truly eco-friendly, functional AND attractive end product, this is £75 you won’t regret spending.
Pros
100% recycled fishing net frames Barberini polarised glass sustainable lenses Saltwater and scratch resistant Timeless flattering look Each sale restores mangrove ecosystems Zero virgin plastic Waterhaul Lifetime Warranty Lightweight and comfortable Prescription lenses available Cork tri-folding protective case
Protect your eyes, save the planet and look dope this summer.
£75
For more information on Waterhaul Kynance click here
15
Dóttir Freedom On-Grid Earbuds
I have a love/hate relationship with exercise, I hate doing it and love it when I’ve finished but one thing that makes it much more enjoyable is listening to my favourites tunes whilst I get a sweat on. The Dóttir Freedom On-Grid Earbuds have been specifically designed for workouts, they come with an IPX7 Rating this means it can be submerged up to one meter in water for 30 minutes, more than enough to tackle a bit of sweat. You could even take these headphones swimming if you wanted, although Bluetooth isn’t particularly reliable in the water so you might have dropouts depending how often your head is going underwater. The earbuds come with 12 differently sized earpieces ensuring you will be able to find a precise fit and keep them secure even during handstands or other inversions. Designed by Crossfit champions and manufactured for high-intensity training on land or in water, the Dóttir are available in White or Ash Grey with a matching charging case that will boost the battery life up to a total playtime of up to 72 hours. The lid of the case is a bit wobbly at the hinge, whilst we are sure this won’t cause any problems it detracts from the high quality of the rest of the product. The earbuds are on the large side but feature a wraparound design that loops over the top of the ear for a snug fit, they have effective Active Noise Cancelling technology that block out 97.8% of unwanted background noise for a true immersive workout. These earbuds use 13mm dynamic drivers that deliver a bass heavy tone perfect for increasing the energy in the gym, the mid tones and high tones could be a little more detailed but overall they provide an enjoyable sound. The three built in microphones let you take calls and activate your voice assistant, there are multifunctional physical controls as well as touch controls which can be accidentally activated when trying to use the physical buttons or putting the earbuds in. The Dóttir Freedom On-Grid Earbuds are on the pricey side and aren’t the most comfortable earbuds we have come across, they’re not exactly uncomfortable but due to their size you are aware they are there. If you are looking for a pair of dedicated workout headphones with a good amount of base and effective ANC then these will certainly tick the boxes.
£128
Pros Sweat-proof and waterproof Ear hooks for a firm hold/secure fit
Enjoyable sound quality with heavy bass
Effective hybrid active noise cancellation
Healthy battery life Cons Touch controls can be accidently activated
Hinge feels loose on charging case Pricey Bulky
A sweatproof pair of workout earbuds keeps the bass low and the energy
For more information on the Dóttir Freedom On-Grid Earbuds click here
high.
17
This powerful tactical light has a lot of offer.
Pros 3 white light modes Light weight IPX7 casing Super hard ceramic strike bezel 5 Red and blue signal lights for warning and security
Hidden Type-C charging port LED battery indicator Healthy battery life For more information on the Nextorch P83 Multi-light Source Tactical Strobe-Flashlight click here
Nextorch P83 Multi-light Source Tactical Strobe-Flashlight
$65.00
Nextorch was founded in 2005 and now sell to over 100 countries across the globe, with a name like Nextorch it isn’t difficult to work out what that main focus is, we were given three of their lights to play with. Starting with the P83, this tactical flashlight comes in a tough little body (155 x 35 x 28.5mm), that offers a two-meter impact resistance and also has an IPX7 waterproof protection which means it can be submerged in water up to one meter for 30 minutes. It has a strong but lightweight aerospace aluminium casing (225g) with a comfortable grip and there is an ultra-hard ceramic strike bezel which can be a used as a window breaker for rescue or self-defence. Once the battery is inserted it can be recharged whilst inside the torch and takes about 3.5hours for a full recharge. The P83 comes with a USB-C charging cable needed, the head of the torch twists open to reveal the charging port and the independent battery indicator displays in easy-to-read LEDs how much juice you have left. The powerful light has a max output of 1300 lumens with a 140 meter throw out, it will always turn on in medium mode then a half press of the on/off button will toggle through the low, medium and high light modes. There is a separate button above the on/off that will activate the strobe mode and a long press of this button will trigger the integrated red and blue light. The high mode delivers the full 1300 lumens and will last for up to 2hours, the medium mode gives you 350 lumens for 4.5 hours and the low mode provides 25 lumens for 60hours. This light is visible 360° degrees and is built into a band located just under the head of the torch, this can also be used whilst the main white light is also illuminated when the on/off button is held. The red and blue LEDs offer a strobing combination of both colours ideal for a warning light, the red flash and blue flash can be used as a signalling/search beacon, whilst the solid blue and red can be used as an SOS light, tracking, signalling with the added bonus that the red light can be used as a anti mosquito and reading light. This versatile tactical flash light is perfect for everything from walking the dog to emergencies, security, search and rescue, law-enforcement, emergency services and self-defence with an intuitive action that makes easy to the select the right mode as and when you need it.
19
Nextorch iStar Natural Light Flip-switch Headlight Next up we have the iStar Natural Light Flip-switch Headlight, I’m going to give you warning straight away as I read it too late on the website, DO NOT OPEN THE FLIP SWITCH TOWARDS YOUR EYES! Guess what I did as soon as I opened it? Once I got my vision back, I could give the iStar a proper look over. This compact headtorch has a smooth rounded profile that measures up at 67 × 39 × 32 mm and weighs just 70g, it is fitted onto a headband made of underwear elastic material, it is super stretchy and feels comfortable against the skin. Saying that there is no strap that runs across the top of the head or silicone grip under the headband which would help keep the band in place without relying on the tightness alone. There is also a lack of padding on the back of the torch which means it can get a little uncomfortable after extended periods of wear. This headlight has a one-meter impact resistance and an IPX4 water resistance rating, this means it is resistant to water splashes from any direction and can handle light to medium rain showers. The built in rechargeable 1100 mAh Li - ion battery comes with a standard Type-C charging port that fully charges in about 1.5 hours, there is a clear, four-stage battery indicator showing the remaining battery. The main light uses multiple high-quality SunLike LEDs that brings a natural and realistic lighting experience that won’t blind the people you are around, it is blue-light-hazard free that won’t damage the eyes when looked directly into for a long time (although it is not recommend). The single button allows for easy switching between modes: Spotlight, Floodlight and Red Light (Constant-on & Flash), the light output range is from 20 lumens up to 450 lumens with the battery lasting between 2.5hours and 25hours depending on the mode selected and it has a max beam distance of 80m. Tucked under the main light is a secondary light that will automatically turn on when the cover is flipped up, no buttons required, this spotlight can be angled from 90 degrees to 160 degrees. The brightness is adjusted automatically from 20 to 450 lumens, the larger the angle, the brighter the light, its stable enough to withstand movements, bumps and rough weather conditions. The lack of padding on the iStar means it probably isn’t the best choice all night wear, but it is certainly handy for camping, dog walks at night and working in low light, this cheeky flip light is great for checking instructions, maps or reading on the fly.
$45.00
For more information on the Nextorch iStar Natural Light Flip-switch Headlight click here
Pros Sunlight LED for a clearer and realistic vision Flip spot light that automatically adjusts brightness Eye friendly and blue light free 3 light modes including red Long lasting built-in li-ion battery Fast charging Cons No padding on the head torch Lacks a strap over the top of the head
Flip the torch to reveal a spot light with automatic brightness adjustment.
21
Nextorch UT22 Multi-Function Rechargeable Warning Light The last light we got our hands on was the UT22, this versatile light isn’t the smallest, it measures up at 72.3 x 50 x 40mm but is surprisingly light at just 85g, it comes with a MOLLE webbing strap and accessories for a range of mounting options. When paired with the light base and clip it can be attached to a tactical vest or backpack, the light base rotates 360 degrees for more flexibility, the helmet clamp makes for easy attachment to head gear whilst the Velcro strap lets you fix it to equipment or clothing. There are also two strong magnets integrated into the bottom of the unit making it easy to attach to a metal surface for even more mounting options. The UT22 has IPX4 water resistant housing and is two-meter impact resistant, it has a 640 mAh built-in li-ion battery with Type-C charging port. The battery will last up to 25hours depending on the mode you are using; the upgraded 22 red-blue LEDs give you the option of 360-degree lighting as well as a white torch light. The white light illumination emits a 11-lumen constant-on lighting with a 25-hour runtime, this is enough for most lighting needs at night, for example id checks, information registration and close-range lighting. The wrap around red-blue LEDs provide over 1,000 meters view on a clear night, you can toggle between different flashing modes with just a press of a button. The gravity touch sensor enables the light to be operated easily and intuitively even with gloves on, simply double pat the light to turn it on or off temporarily, freeing up your hands to do whatever needs doing. The UT22 helps you to clearly see and be seen in low light, as well as mark out an area with the warning beacon light, plus all those mounting options makes it a highly adaptable light.
Pros Multiple mounting options two meter impact-resistant IPX4 water resistant Up to 25hour battery life Gravity touch sensor 360 °all-rounded lighting red-blue lighting lightweight
Cons Not the smallest light For more information on the Nextorch UT22 Multi-Function Rechargeable Warning Light click here
See and be seen with this
£44
rechargeable warning light.
23
Tre Spade TC-8 Inox Manual Meat Mincer The three crossing swords "Tre Spade" first appeared in 1894 on the body of one of the first Italian coffee grinders, from macinelli (mills) to pepper mills at the beginning of last century, Tre Spade designed the mechanism that is still today unparalleled for its functionality, precision and reliability. The over 100 years Tre Spade combines a highly industrial vocation and forged metal to create strong kitchen tools from meat mincers to tomato squeezers and sausage fillers. The TC-8 Inox Manual Meat Mincer is a traditional manual mincer made entirely from a strong stainless steel following the same construction design that would be a familiar sight in every home a century ago. There are a few modern updates to ensure longevity and ease of use, it comes with a 6mm plate, 16mm plate, a mincer knife and two sausage nozzles. Measuring up at 10.3 x 9.5 x 3.5 inches and weighing 5.5lbs it arrives in a solid state making it super easy to assemble and get to work and will fit a maximum worktop depth of 40mm via
£89.40
the integrated vice system. It has solid engineering and completely sturdy body which makes short work of mincing small amounts of fresh meats needed for the week for spaghetti bolognaise or chili con carne or grinding cooked meats for family favourites like shepherds or cottage pie. Then there are the two sausage nozzles which allow you to create your very own bangers and having complete control over the ingredients and flavour of these BBQ favourites. The mincer can also be used with nuts, cooked vegetables, dry bread, and more, when you have finished using the mincer it is easy to disassemble thanks to the removable blade and can be given a clean. It can then be removed for storage, however, we like the look so much we think it’s worth keeping it out on display if you have the space to spare. This tough little work horse is a good addition for home cooks, powering through raw and cooked meats as well as other ingredients for full control and freedom to experiment with your meals.
Pros Made from all stainless steel
Traditional manual mincer design
Sausage nozzles included Easy to disassemble for cleaning and storing
Fits 40mm worktops via the integrated vice system
Cons Plastic handle could be more robust
This powerful and compact mincer is a good addition to a home cooks kitchen. For more information on Tre Spade TC-8 Inox Manual Meat Mincer click here
25
Speras m4 As far as powerful flashlights go, there aren’t many smaller than this! Knocking out an impressive 1320 Lumens at its highest setting and with a beam range of 2130 ft (652 m), it far surpasses your standard lamp and fits in your pocket easily at just over 3” long. It also boasts a USB-C Charging port through which you can fully charge the lightweight (only 3oz) I* 18350 battery in about 2 hours. Once charged, the battery can last up to 220 hours if you use it in ECO mode. However, I wouldn’t rely on this to do an awful lot for you as the light output drops to just half a Lumen (about half the light a standard candle emits) and would probably only suit the most ardent fans of reading books under the covers. Speaking of the battery life, although the range and light output is impressive at its maximum setting, it will only last 1hr and 10 mins. To be fair however, it’s probably long enough to do whatever you need to do so just over an hour isn’t bad. Strangely, the next setting down at 450 Lumens gives you 1hr and 15 mins of battery. Not sure if something is wrong with their calculations but why would you bother with 450 for the sake of another 5 minutes? Unless you’re being responsible and trying not to blind anyone near you I suppose! Other functions include a locking system to prevent accidental turn on when being transported and a handy power indicator that uses a simple traffic-light system to give you an idea of how much battery life you have left. The size and convenience of this torch is what wins it for me, just don’t expect it to be useful for extended periods of time.
Small, compact and very VERY bright
$59.99
Pros
Small and compact Very bright at max setting
Long range at max setting
Good charging time for what it can do
Cons
For more information on the Speras m4 click here
ECO mode is only half a Lumen No real middle setting – it’s either loads of light or not very much.
19
QuietOn 3 Some people, my husband for one, could fall asleep in the middle of a building site, no amount of noise will prevent him nodding off when he’s tired, however some people, need peace and quiet to drift off. Life isn’t always that tranquil, outside traffic, snoring partners, noisy neighbours and shift working can all make switching off rather difficult, the QuietOn 3 earbuds offer a way of shutting out the noise without simply replacing it with music or white noise. These little earbuds use active noise cancelling (ANC) to block out the world around you designed specifically for sleeping, this means they have been created around the ear’s anatomy. With standard earbuds they are shaped to fit inside the concha, these can stick out of the ear and make things uncomfortable for side sleepers whereas the QuietOn 3’s are the smallest earbuds for sleeping, around three times smaller than Apple Airpods Pro and tuck neatly inside the ear eliminating pressure when laying on your side. There are four pairs of ear tips to choose from (XS, S, M, L) all made from a soft foam for a secure fit and provide some passive noise cancelling, they are unlikely to fall out overnight. The ANC uses a tiny microphone that takes a sample of the noise and the uses active electronics inside the earbud to create a phase-shifted
and equalized sound which is then played through the speaker to cancel out the original noise. The rechargeable battery is little but can still last up to 28hrs from one charge which is about three nights sleep, but with the addition of the charging case you can get a full week before having to connect it to the mains. The QuietOn 3 are easy enough to use, they switch on automatically when removed from the charging case. If you are used to foam earplugs you will notice them in the ear more, however we found they were comfortable, and you get used to them over a few nights. The noise cancelling is really effective, if there is a lot of different and loud background noises, camping at a festival for example, it isn’t completely shut out, but it is greatly reduced to a level that’s easy to switch off from. As well as being great for sleep there are other moments in the day the QuietOn 3 are useful, focusing on work from home in a busy house, taking some time out for some meditation, tai chi, worship, anything that requires a degree of calm and focus. The QuietOn 3 do not come cheap but there is no price that can be put on getting a good night’s sleep and there is something incredibly empowering knowing you can carry instant serenity in your pocket.
£229
Block out the noise instead of replacing it and enjoy the peace and quiet. Pros
Effective noise cancellation
Comfortable Hold in place Suitable for side sleepers
Not restricted to night-time use Cons Pricey For more information on the QuietOn 3 click here
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Shark Anti Hair Wrap Cordless Pet Vacuum (Double Battery) IZ320UKT When it comes to cleaning up hairy homes it’s hard to find something that beats a Shark vacuum, the IZ320UKT takes things to another level with the Anti Hair Wrap which removes the hair from the brush-roll so you don’t have to. This vacuum comes with a 30cm crevice tool, multi surface tool, anti-allergen brush, PowerFins pet tool, accessory bag, two lithium-Ion batteries and the dual charger dock. Designed for homes with pets the IZ320UKT offers 50% more suction than their previous models and with the inclusion of the PowerFins it is engineered to pick up more hair. The unique bristle-guard and comb separates and removes hair from the brush-roll as you clean, no more tugging away with tangled collections of human and pet hair, to free up the brush again. The 4.58kg lightweight design makes it easy to manoeuvre around the house and raise above your head for high level cleaning, it measures up at 26 x 24.5 x 118 cm and has a 0.7L dust bin. One of our favourite features is the dual battery, giving you a whopping 120mins run time more than enough time to give the whole house a thorough clean. The batteries can be recharged with the removable battery pack on or off the vacuum and both can be charged at the same time thanks to the dual charging cradle. The LED display screen on the handle will let you know how much
juice you have left, it will also indicate the suction level Eco, Deep Clean and Boost modes and the selected floor type, there are three power modes to choose between and two floor settings hard floor and carpet mode. The two motorised brush-rolls work together in Shark’s signature DuoClean floorhead and the now enhanced with PowerFins. These fins dig into the carpets to remove the dirt and directly engage hard floors to remove stuck on dust, it does all this with very little pressure from you, you don’t have to repeatedly go over the same spot. This Shark is bagless and features an anti-allergen complete seal and HEPA filter that traps 99.9% of dust and allergens inside the vacuum, there is a bright LED headlight on the floorhead that lets you clearly see into all the nooks and crannies. The Flexology wand bends with a push of a button to let you get under low-lying furniture, it also means you can fold it down for compact storage. It can transform into a handheld vacuum ideal for getting at the stairs, upholstery or car and attach the wand to clean up high and reach behind furniture. This vacuum is really impressive, it’s user friendly, powerful and just keeps going, the only negative we could pick on is that it doesn’t stand up on its own but we can forgive that, hell it could leave the loo seat up and drink the last of the milk and it would still be forgiven for how well it performs.
For more information on the Shark Anti Hair Wrap Cordless Pet Vacuum click here
A must have for pet owners, rid your house of hair, dust and dirt.
Pros Up to 2 hours of run-time Charge both batteries at the same time Includes Pet Tool free 5-year guarantee (2 years for the battery). DuoClean and PowerFins pick up more hair LED Smart Display Perfect for all floor types Anti-Hair Wrap Technology Lightweight and easy to move around Cons Doesn’t stand up on its own
£529.99
31
Vivobarefoot Magna Forest ESC Barefoot life is a chance to connect with the natural world and allow your body to move about in a natural way, it shouldn’t mean taking risks with your safety or jeopardising your stability whilst walking about. The ESC from Vivobarefoot has been newly engineered with a tough yet flexible Michelin outsole, this sole has deep 7mm lugs on a 2.5mm base, this gives you high levels of traction on extreme trails. At the front of the shoe are articulated toe lugs which have been designed to act like claws to help with the assent, at the back the long heel lugs act as a break during the descents. Running down either side of the sole are dedicated lugs for lateral edge traction to assist with traversing and the textured arch gives you a zonal grip for technical off trail movement, you get all this steadiness while maintaining ground feel beneath your feet keeping you connected to the earth and enjoying that barefoot experience. The ESC offers that Vivo wide foot fit to let the foot spread naturally as you walk and the sole is flexible enough to tap into all the little muscles in the foot and build up the strength. The Bloom Performance Insole is made from a algae biomass foam, the stuff is damaging our oceans so using it in the footwear helps to clean the environment from where it was harvested, it is the first sustainable alternative to synthetic and petrochemical EVA foam, it also uses recycled PU foam, another tick for reducing waste and moving away from virgin plastics. The upper is made with Woolmark certified merino wool collar, which delivers precise and comfortable fit, keeps out debris from the trail, it also provides breathability, temperature regulation and sweat wicking properties. The laces need pulling in from the bottom to the top as they have a textured shape, you don’t want them too tight to allow the top of the foot to move naturally as it pushes away from the ground, this lace design means they hold firmly in place once tided. The naturally scarred leather comes from free-roaming cattle sourced from small scale farmers and makes the ESC water resistant giving you a good balance between a natural experience and comfort. The ESC are a great choice for a sustainable barefoot trail shoe that gives you plenty of environmental feedback whilst protecting you from the elements.
A tough and stable barefoot shoe made with sustainable and recycled materials.
£200
Pros ESC Michelin rubber sole Wider fit High levels of traction Physical feedback Flexible Woolmark knitted collar Water-resistant Durable wild hide leather panels flexible grip across the wildest terrains.
Revivo recycling program For more information on the Vivobarefoot Magna Forest ESC click here
33
Horizn Studios H6 Check-In Luggage (65L) The H6 from Horizn Studios is a PETA-approved 100% vegan check-in bag featuring a polycarbonate hard shell made from partially recycled materials, completed with recycled polyester lining and produced in a way that is 99% waste-free. The H6 is notably light weight at just 3.9kg (with the power pack included) and measures up at a cabin friendly 46cm x 64cm x 24cm, it comes in a wide range of colours a soft Sand, rich Night Blue and the attractive Dark Olive we received. It comes in a choice of three sizes 55cm, 64cm and 77cm and you can pick either the Essential or the Smart version (we will be looking at the Smart) and you can even give it the personalised touch with the monogram option. It comes with an 10,000 mAh Smart Charger, 1m USB charging cable, laundry bag, luggage tag and dust protector for storage. Constructed from aerospace grade polycarbonate providing a tough but lightweight body, we did notice that the body can become easily marked with grubby finger prints so it’s worth being a little careful with it if your hands have moisturiser, sun cream or after sun lotions on. There is a TSA-approved combination lock, a strong multi-stage telescopic handle where underneath hides the access to the two charging ports and removeable power bank (handy for taking out in the day when you reach your destination). There are four shock resistant 360-degree spinner wheels for upright rolling, they are by no means noisy but at the same time they aren’t the quietest we have come across. On the inside there is a high-density nylon lining which is water resistant and easy to clean, offering another layer of protection to your belongings. There is a compression pad and straps on one side to maximise the same whilst keeping everything in place, on the other side there is a dual zippered mesh screen compartment, the zip pulls are a little on the small side which can make things a bit fiddly especially on recently sun creamed hands. The included water-resistant laundry bag lets you hide aways dirty clothes, keeping them zipped off from the rest of your gear or can be used to store your delicates (or in my case more industrials) to avoid showing them off when you open your bag. You can order one of these bags safe in the knowledge Horizn Studios will offset our delivery carbon footprint and ship everything in eco-friendly packaging. The H6 is a lightweight travel friendly companion, providing a safe place for everything and power when you need it.
Pros Lightweight and durable hard shell
All vegan materials PETA approved
Four 360° Japanese spinner wheels TSA-approved lock 10,000mAh integrated power bank Four-stage telescopic handle Compression panel Cons Fiddly zip pulls on the interior Outer shell can be marked with fingerprints
£405
Ensure you never run out of power whilst you travel with this PETA approved hand luggage.
For more information on the Horizn Studios H6 Check-In Luggage (65L) click here
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Niwaki Sentei Topiary Clippers We are moving into summer this month and that means only one thing, it's bush trimming time! Get your minds out of the gutter this has nothing to do with skimpy beachwear, we are of course talking about topiary. Now is the perfect time to get those balls into shape (seriously I promise I’m talking about plants) and Niwaki has got the perfect tools to get you started. Niwaki (pronounced Ni-Whacky) means garden tree in Japanese and is inspired by the pristine and intricately designed gardens in Japan. These clippers have been purpose built for topiary, everything about them feels like you are being handed a precious weapon, they come in a good quality draw sting canvas storage bag, inside that is a presentation box. Both bag and box are red and white in colour, both prosperous colours and representing the Japanese flag, inside the box you will find your weapons of mass creation, the Sentei. Sentei means to prune in Japanese, exactly what these bad boys have been designed to do, they come in a protective plastic sleeve however for an extra £28 you can get a long leather holster. These clippers fit neatly in the hand and feature 5" KA70 carbon steel blades with a soft spring action, the delicate profile and all metal finish deliver a timeless and attractive look, adding to the pleasure of the hobby. These require minimal pressure thanks to the sharp and wide set blades making it easy to use with one hand (left or right), you will only be cutting through the soft new growth after all. There is a spare spring included to extend the life span of the clippers and there is an easy-to-use locking catch for safety when the Sentei are not in use. With the right care these clippers will provide years of topiary service, allowing you to enjoy both the physical process of your creations as well as the final results.
Trim your bushes and
£49
trees to perfection with the graceful topiary clippers.
Pros 5" KA70 carbon steel blades One hand operation Great value for money Beautifully presented Spare spring included Long and wide blades Left or right-handed For more information on the Niwaki Sentei Topiary Clippers click here
BOMBAZINE pendant
YELENA pendant
KEEGAN wall light
ARONA pendant
For stockists, please visit www.darlighting.co.uk or contact our team directly on: 01295 672 200
Freetrain Hydro 1 Vest I love a run and I love the hot weather but put them together and I’m one grumpy, Lycra wearing jogger, the main issue I have is staying hydrated, I hate carrying stuff in my hands when I run I find it really distracting. Water belts can be equally irritating, bouncing away on your hip so I was pleased to see that Freetrain have released the Hydro Vest, I was converted to the running vest a few years ago, ditching the arm band in favour of the vest for carrying my phone and door key. The Hydro Vest is bigger than the V1 or the VR vests, rather than the pocket being located in the centre of the chest there are two pockets either side, the back panel is wider to compensate for this and spreads the weight more evenly. The phone pocket will fit 99% of all modern phones thanks to the stretchy material, it also comes with a phone adapter case to make sure your device has a snug fit, preventing it from bouncing about, causing friction and generally being a nuisance. The vest comes in one size and is suitable for most people with a chest size between 28 and 52 inches, the material used is super flexible allowing it to expand and mould to the individuals body shape so it’s snug, not tight. The waist band is adjustable so you can tighten it and loosen it with weight loss or muscle gain, it might feel tight to begin with but will become looser after a few runs and a bit of movement. It is easier to put on than the previous vests thanks to the central zip and it feels thinner and more flexible too, the ventilation holes help encourage air flow. The water bottle pocket has a draw string on the opening security, and it comes with a soft 500ml water bottle with a sports top, a little straw that clips onto the shoulder would be a handy addition so you can take a sip on the fly. There are two stretchy shoulder pockets for keys or gels as well as a large stretchy pocket on the back panel that could be used to store a waterproof shell or a lightweight sweat towel. The Hydro 1 Vest is a comfortable solution to carrying your phone and water on those hot runs, the larger design might not be for everyone but it comfortably holds everything firmly in place so you can focus on your run and remain safely hydrated.
This lightweight, flexible vest lets you comfortably carry
500ml
of water on your runs. For more information on the Freetrain Hydro 1 Vest click here
Pros
Ventilation holes
Phone and water bottle
Zip-front fastening for easy on/off
pocket to chest
500ml soft water bottle included
Cons
Shoulder pockets and back
Non-adjustable shoulder
straps
Durable lightweight material More coverage than the VR Reflective print and V1 Adjustable waistband No drinks straw
£34.99
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Lollipop Baby Camera
Leaving your baby to sleep on their own in the nursery can be a scary prospect, being able to listen in on them is one thing but being able to see them provides a whole other level of reassurance as well as allowing you to witness some amazing moments that ordinally would be missed. This sweet little camera comes in three colours Cotton Candy, Turquoise or Pistachio, the packaging is rather cute with tiny little footprints cut out in the boxes, yes, I know it will only end up in the recycling, but it certainly had the aww factor. The camera is made from a premium, baby-safe silicone and has a long, flexible tail, this can be twisted into position to sit the camera on a table or around the bars of the cot, it also comes with wall mount and loop attachment to wrap it around the bars of the cot. It can also be attached to any standard tripod attachments giving you a plethora of mounting options in all locations. The Lollipop connects over an app on your phone or smart device via Wifi, there is a privacy mode that activates indoor monitoring only and blocks outdoor streaming, some features such as event video will be disabled in this mode, but you can still watch the live feed when your phone is connected to the same WiFi. When away from the home you can check in on how the babysitter is getting on from anywhere in the world, this also means you can give access to grandparents and friends to see special moments with either live camera view or prerecorded links. The new Gig: Baby DJ will play calming white noise or classical music; the Cry Detection can tell the difference between background noise and your child’s cry for attention, sending an alert to your phone. The Cross Detection allows you to set safe zones to track movements in your baby’s cot, if a cat sneaks their way in or baby pokes a leg out between the bars you will be notified, it will also save a 30-second video (for 7 days) of any significant events such as crying or environmental alerts, this lets you review if anything unusual happens. The WiFi style connection could be an issue for those looking for a high security device, the privy mode is reasonably effective but limits some of the features. The Lollipop Care is an option subscription which adds to an already functional collection of features, including the 30s Event Video Recordings, 24/7 Continuous Video Recording, Video Clip Download and the rather handy new Sleep Tracking. The image quality is impressive, there is a slight delay as it switches between daytime colour and night mode, the sound is clear with very little lag, the cute design also compliments the nursery nicely, all things considered it is great value for money. For more information on the Lollipop Baby Camera click here
Pros Multiple mounting options £125.56 Add extra cameras to the same device Built in sound machine Push notifications when the app is closed Clear image quality and sound day and night Check in from anywhere in the world or choose privacy mode
Cry Detection, Cross Detection and Data History Reasonably price optional Lollipop Care subscription Cons Security issues surrounding WiFi connection There isn’t much not to like about this camera, packed with handy features, a sweet design and multiple mounting options it proved to be great value for money.
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Spinlock Alto Belt Pack Floatation Aid Summer is the time to get out and enjoy everything that nature has to offer; summer is also the time we hear stories of people getting into trouble on the water. With canoes, kayaks, surf boards, stand up paddle boards and other inflatables so readily available these days anyone can get out on the water without necessarily knowing how to stay safe. The Alto Belt Pack Floatation Aid from Spinlock is a 75N waist worn floatation, designed to be there when you need extra support in the water, it is kept discretely out of the way around the waist, it looks a bit like a bum bag. This aid is manually operated so the wearer must be fully conscious and mobile to trigger it when needed and offers complete freedom of movement unlike some hefty old life jackets. It comes in red, blue, yellow, orange or black, it weighs just 376g (13.3oz) and fits waist sizes of 70cm up to 145cm (27.5" - 57"), it is approved for adult users only (aged 16 years+) who weigh over 40kg. The waist belt is adjustable to get a precise and comfortable fit and it can be worn on the front or back so you can ensure the pull cord is within reach of your dominant hand and the pack is out of your way. To activate just give a strong tug on the tab that’s located on the left strap, it has a label written on it and a yellow plastic pull toggle. When you trigger the Alto it releases a 75N inflatable tube that’s nearly a full circle, this will then support the wearer under the arms and around the chest, it is reusable but you will need to purchase the rearming kit, two 16g cylinders and two clips for £8.68. This buoyancy aid is UKCA and CE approved and is rated as a ISO12402-5 50N buoyancy aid and ISO12402-6 special purpose buoyancy aid. We love how the Alto can be put on and forgotten about until needed, it doesn’t impede arm movement at all making it great for paddlers, fisherman and anyone looking to be active on the water but have that safety net with them too. Application: Swimmers only, sheltered waters help at hand, limited protection against drowning, not a lifejacket. Trained users only, requires secondary donning in the water.
This discrete buoyance aid offers unrestrictive support whilst enjoying the water.
Pros Compact and lightweight Minimum buoyancy when inflated 75N Adjustable waist belt Discrete Can be worn on front or back Easy to activate Cons Has to be rearmed after use with an additional cost Manual activation only
£60.80
For more information on the Spinlock Alto Belt Pack Floatation Aid click here
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Pause Me
Given the massive rise of online meetings the curse known as Coronavirus has bestowed upon us, it was somewhat inevitable we would get products like this sooner or later! The majority of us have had to put up with Zoom calls while working from home whether we’ve wanted them or not and, I don’t know about you, but sometimes, real life just happens and pays no attention to what you’re actually trying to do to keep those readies flowing in to your bank account. This device allows you to take a little more control of those situations. It connects via Bluetooth and needs no additional software so is very easy to use. It also has a range of up to 50 feet for when you’re in a situation where you’re unable to be sat in front of your computer for the whole duration of the meeting. But, what does it actually do? Well, it’s fully Zoom compatible and, as well as looking pretty, it remotely controls whether or not your camera is on and whether or not you’re muted. Two simple buttons do this, one either end of the device. You couldn’t ask for it to be much easier to be honest. However, I am left wondering – I can just press the ‘mute’ button on the Zoom call. I can also easily turn the camera on or off in Zoom with a click of a mouse button. So, what’s this offering that I can’t already do anyway? After some thinking, the best reason I can see for this existing is for someone with limited physical capability. A mouse can be a daunting prospect for some, and this device would make Zoom meetings far less so and anything that empowers someone is a tick in the box for me. Could be a God-send for some, don’t think I need one myself though.
$30
Control meetings with
Pros Good range Easy to use
Looks stylish Cons Doesn’t really add anything I can’t do already.
this little device
For more information on Pause Me click here
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15 minutes Automatic start and stop
Ruffwear Palisades Dog Backpack
There’s nothing like exploring the great outdoors with you best four-legged pal, but the last thing you need is to be constantly removing your own rucksack and digging around for poo bags, treats and water. Let them take a little responsibility for their own belongings with the Palisade backpack from Ruffwear, this is their highest volume pack Ruffwear have to offer suitable for multiday treks and holidays. It comes in a highly visible Red Sumac colour and in sizes Small, Medium, Large/Extra Large, and is made from a tough 150 denier ripstop polyester shell. This Ruffwear staple has had an upgrade with more breathability and flexibility thanks to the perforated, moulded foam chassis and an improved faderesistance with new materials. The updated "flopper stopper" system (my new favourite phrase) is easier to use when stabilising the saddlebags, there is also a brand-new stash pocket configuration. The roomy saddlebags are fully removeable, ideal for lightening the load once you have reached your location and use with shorter sized trips, they feature a cross-load compression system which keeps things stable and balanced for the dog. There are multiple pockets and an external daisy chain to organise the dogs gear store like sleeping equipment and food, it also comes with two 1lt BPA free collapsible hydration bladders. It is recommended that the dog doesn’t carry more than 25% of their body weight which includes the pack weight and its contents, if this is the first time your dog has used a backpack it is a good idea to start them off with light loads and work up to get them used to the sensation of the bag. The Palisade uses five points of adjustment for a precise fit, there are two leash attachment points, an aluminium V-ring and reinforced webbing loop as well as a light loop and reflective trim for better visibility in low light. The robust padded handle and girth straps evenly disperse the load for full control over the dog and comfortable lifting when they need a little help. The Palisade is perfect for adventurers with four legged friends, giving you quick easy access to all their belongings.
For more information on the Ruffwear Palisades Dog Backpack click here
Pros
£189.95
Update harness is more breathable and flexible Removable saddle bags Two 1-liter collapsible hydration bladders Five points of adjustment for an optimal fit Two leash attachment points Padded handle and girth straps Cross-load compression system and flopper stoppers Multiple storage options Bright design, reflective and light loop
This kettle gives you precise control over water flow and direction 47
LEGO Delorean OMG! HOW cool is this?! And I don’t care if cool is no longer a word used to describe things, sometimes some things, quite simply, are ‘cool’ and no-one is telling me otherwise! The 80’s saw some of the best movies ever to grace our screens and Back To The Future is right up there with them. Combined with the ultimate construction brick in LEGO, how can any sane person not want to own this? Enough drooling, you’re not here to read about my nerdiness, what about the kit itself? Well, this is actually the 3rd Back To The Future kit that LEGO have released. (one of which was a mini-kit for the LEGO Dimensions game that I am literally looking at as I write this!). They were, of course, really cool too but this one notches it up a level. It’s a 3-in-1 kit and allows you to build the DeLorean as it is in each of the movies. They even go so far as to
include the lightning rod conductor on the car from the first movie which Doc set up to allow the titular event to happen. Sorry if that’s a spoiler but I figure if you’re reading this, you know what happens… As would be expected, the gullwing doors are in full effect and the flux capacitor even lights up. The 2nd car has folding wheels to completely re-create the “Roads? Where we’re going, we don’t need roads!” feel of that one (still waiting on a hoverboard – 7 years now…) and finally, the 3rd one has all the tech from 1955 that Marty arrived in the Wild West with. In case you hadn’t realised, I love this set! The attention to detail (the mini-figures are awesome!) is great, even down to different interchangeable number plates for each car design. On that note, I’m ‘outatime’!
Fancy building a Delorean? How about all three?!
Pros
For more information on the LEGO Delorean click here
3 different versions of the DeLorean! Mini-figures of Doc & Marty Interchangeable number plates
‘Light up’ flux Capacitor!
£149.99
49
Ifi Zen Air Blue HD Bluetooth dac
£99
The ifi Zen Air Blue HD is essentially a Bluetooth Speaker. You connect whatever device your music is on to it (via Bluetooth funnily enough), press play and away you go! Nothing overly new there though, these kind of things have been around for a while, so what does this offer that other Bluetooth speakers don’t? For starters, they’ve really gone to town to make this compatible with pretty much any Bluetooth capable device you may have. No matter what codec your device uses, this unit can receive it. There are differences depending on what you use with LDAC Adaptive or aptX HD bringing out the best, not that any of the codecs provide a poor performance, they’re all good. With the upgrade ifi have applied to the Bluetooth system, there’s also less drop in audio quality than you suffer with other Bluetooth speakers (they claim 40%) when compared to wired speakers. The unit itself is pretty easy to operate with a single button (1 press for on/off, hold the button to pair) and the display changes colour depending on the type of codec being used. There are RCA connectors at the back allowing you to plug in your speakers if you prefer to use these but the sound quality is good enough that you may not need to, although an amplifier would work well here. This Bluetooth speaker would suit anyone making their first venture into audio devices. With a fair entry price of just under £100, it’s affordable for most and the decent range should allow you to put it where you want it in your home, decreasing the need to clutter up any particular area with devices. The only possible down-side is the lack of an ability to pair with a different DAC but the in-built one is plenty fine.
The new ifi Zen Air Blue HD
Pros Compatible with anything currently on the market
Affordable Very good sound quality Good range Cons Full instruction manual is only available online
Unable to use other DAC’s with it
For more information on the Ifi Zen Air Blue HD Bluetooth dac click here
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Ifi Zen Air Can Analogue Headphone Amplifier
The Ifi Zen Air CAN is a perfect amplifier for those that prefer a good old fashioned wired connection for their headphones! It’s totally analogue with no digital input in sight which is perfect for its intent of course. It can host your PC, Mac, TV, tablet and Smartphone (as long as there is an analogue output option that is) allowing you to get the full benefit of the volume and clarity of sound this amp provides. It doesn’t just pump what it wants into your ears though – you do have the ability to change the Gain (the ability of the amp to increase the size of the signal from the source) thereby adjusting for the sensitivity of your headphones using the three settings of 0, 9 and 18 Decibels: the higher the sensitivity, the lower the Gain you want. You also have the option of using 6.3mm or 4.4mm jacks with the former being the more common single-ended type of jack whilst the latter is provided so that you can gain the benefit of balanced headphones without having to have actual balanced headphones utilising their S-Balanced technology. A couple of unique features that Ifi bring to this amp are XBass and XSpace. The XBass basically extends the bass response to suit different headphones while XSpace is a spatialiser, giving you the sound experience you may expect from a live venue for example. These are both tailored to suit analogue play, clearly coming in to their own here. All of the above, when added to the symmetrical circuit design (anything audio-related is kept as far from other components as possible, greatly reducing noise interference), allows for a remarkably good, crisp sound and at a very affordable price for what it is.
£99 For more information on the ifi Zen Air can analogue headphone amplifier click here
You’re getting the benefit of Ifi’s experience and technology here, take advantage!
Pros
Gain adjustor to suit your headphones
Both 6.3 and 4.4 mm ports XBass & XSpace Very good price for what you get 53
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