The Review Smiths Issue 23

Issue 23 MAY 2022

THE

Review Smiths FORGING HONEST REVIEWS

KitchenAid Food Processor

Babolat Pure Strike 103

Road Angel Halo Ultra

Tapo C320WS Roborock S7+

CONTENTS

Hi All, Happy May Everyone! Easily one of the best months, with a bank holiday, Spring in full swing and not to mention a very important persons birthday *cough cough* This month we have pulled together one of our best collections, with a huge range of premium products theres so much to like. We have dash cams and dog wear, a juicer and a food processor, things to keep you moving even when you are at work. One of our favourite gadgets is the Roborock S7+, this clever little robot will hoover your floors and mop your hard surfaces, it is even smart enough to move the mop out of the way when its on your carpet.

We also have a fold up travel piano, thats right, a full size piano that can fit in your back pack and go to the park with you, this job really really does keep things interesting.

Enjoy the beautiful weather.

Editor and Chief

Managing Director Alex Hilling-Smith

Writer Dave Hicks

Senior Writer Emma Hilling-Smith

Chief Mouse Stealer 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. Peak Design Everyday Backpack Zip 20L 06. Dali Katch G2 08. NEW KitchenAid Food Processor 2.1L 10. Godox WL4B 12. Marmitek Surround Anywhere 221 14. Oscha Okinami Kaio Sling 16. Babolat Pure Strike 103 18. Tracklements Father's Day Bundle 20. LuminAid Packlite Max 2-in-1 22. Tapo C320WS 24. Fluidstance Level 26. Devolo Magic 2 Wi-Fi 6 28. Road Angel Halo Ultra 30. Soar Ultra Lightweight Gilet 32. Juicy Retreats JR Ultra 8000 S3 34. Microplane Premium Classic Zester 36. Cardo Freecom 4X 38. Roborock S7 MaxV Ultra 40. Shokz OpenRun Pro 42. Kally Super Cool Honeycomb Pillow 44. Enabot Ebo Air 46. Proviz REFLECT360 Platinum E-Bike Jacket 48. Ruffwear Approach Dog Overnight Pack 50. Ruffwear Palisades Multi-day Dog Pack 52. On Running Cloudmonster 54. Indik8a 56. Carry On Folding Piano 58. Snooper DVR-PRO with Lockable SD 60. Snooper DVR-WF1 1080P HD WiFi Dash Cam

Peak Design Everyday Backpack Zip 20L The Everyday Backpack Zip is a new product from Peak Designs Everyday Line V2 and it has been model around the iconic Everyday Backpack but with a simpler design both in use and looks, we received the 20L in the attractive Midnight blue but it is also available in 15L and in Ash, Bone and Black. Consistent with the Peak Design style it has an ultra-clean profile for discreet use in busy areas, no one will know the expensive photography equipment lurking within.

The 20L has a gear profile of a DLSR camera body with lens, plus two or three extra lens or a DJI Mavic drone with controller, batteries, charger and accessories, on top of your camera gear it will also hold a 13-15" laptop, notebook, lunch, jacket, wallet, phone, keys, sunglasses, passport. The outer shell is made from a weatherproof, 100% recycled 400D nylon canvas shell with a DWR impregnated and double PU-coated. The contents can be accessed from the top and sides thanks to the weatherproof 270-degree ultra-durable zip, remaining on the outside there are two external side pockets that can stretch to fit water bottles or tripods. There are two external carry straps that can be used for fixing down bulky items and the stowable sternum strap helps keep the contents secure when you are on the move, there is also a padded, stowable hip belt that can be bought separately.

The back of the bag is vented with quick-drying mesh padding for increased comfort on your travels whilst the shoulder straps feature pivot axial points for the comfort of all body types. There is also a luggage pass-through for securing it onto a roller-top carry case and three padded grab handles. On the inside there are the two FlexFold dividers to organize and protect your belongings, the dedicated laptop sleeve is adjustable for easy access to smaller laptops. There is a collection of internal pockets for smaller items as well as three internal slip pockets for your wallet, passport, and other important things. The Everyday Backpack Zip is a great urban backpack, you will find yourself using it even when your camera is at home, its premium construction and ease of use means it will be your go to bag for years to come.

Pros Two FlexFold dividers £148.12 270-degree wrap-around zipper Loads of pockets Adjustable laptop sleeve Robust design Comfortable shoulder straps Ventilated back panel Weatherproof, 100% recycled 400D nylon canvas

This simplified backpack is highly capable of protecting and organising your camera gear.

5

Dali Katch G2 What’s worse than having no music at a party? Being forced to listen to your favourite tunes through a nasty tinny speaker! If you love your music (and your guests) it should be treated with respect and, spoiler alert, with the Dali Katch G2 your tunes are in a safe pair of hands.

From first touch you can tell the G2 is well made, it has an attractive rounded house that comes in a choice of three colours Iron Black, Caramel White, and Chilly Blue, it has a golden DALI logo coin that anchors the genuine leather strap, colour-matched to the main body. It has an impressive battery life for its size with up to 30hours playtime from a 2hour charge, the little lights around the power button will let you know how much juice you have left. There is also the option of powering it via the main charger, this will give you more volume and is recommended for optimal performance when playing loud party music, there is also a USB port which means you can charge your phone whilst you stream tunes both when it’s plugged in or away from the mains.

The speaker connects over Bluetooth 5.0 or straight into the stereo mini-jack port, for true wireless stereo you can connect two Katch G2’s together, there is also the option of using the jack to drive a Chromecast Audio dongle or Amazon Echo for home network integration. There are two different audio profiles, the neutral frequency response, suitable for most listening situations, or a warmer response that is better for larger rooms or when the music needs just that little extra. The G2 uses a long-throw DALI woofer, soft dome tweeter and Auxiliary Bass Radiator which work together to produce a wonderful full body sound, it is packed full detail, has a rich, rounded bass, topped off with clean vocals and high tones, plus it can easily fill a room without compromising the sound quality. It comes with a hefty price tag, but we believe it is well worth the money, this is no ordinary portable speaker, it has excellent build quality, premium sound, a powerful battery all wrapped up in a striking package.

This premium portable speaker sounds extraordinary both inside the home and outside.

For more information on the Dali Katch G2 click here

£329

Pros

Stunning audio Premium build Highly portable Up to 30hours battery life USB charging port Audio jack Bluetooth 5.0 Stereo pairing

7

£199

NEW KitchenAid Food Processor 2.1L The New KitchenAid 2.1L Food Processor takes the hard work out of food preparation, it can chop, slice, shred, purée, mix, knead, mince, whisk and julienne in a matter of seconds. It comes with a 2.1 L BPA-free work bowl with a hinged lid, dough blade, multi-purpose S-blade, reversible 4mm medium slicing/shredding disc, julienne disc, refrigerator lid, whisk accessory, hinged lid with 2-in-1 feed tube and food pusher and the drive adapter. Choose between Matte Black, Onyx Black, Empire Red, Almond Cream, Contour Silver and Pistachio coloured base units, the Pistachio is particularly beautiful. Its collection of accessories can tackle fresh veggies, cheese, doughs, sauces, salsa and more, liquids like oil can be added to the drizzle basin and it will then trickle into the mix while processing, this is handy for fresh salads.

There are three easy press buttons that select either low, high or pulse controls and the LED display will illuminate when in use, the twist-free design means you just need to click the bowl into place and open the hinged lid. When you are finished the bowl and all the accessories can be thrown in the dishwasher and all the parts fit inside the bowl making it easy to store away and keep all the parts together. If you need to clean the Food Processor and use it again straight away you can pour in some warm water and add 1-2 drops of dish soap and give it a whirl, a quick rinse and its ready to go again. We were unsurprised to discover this food processor has a premium build and fast, precise action, it’s from KitchenAid after all, not to mention that conventional cottage kitchen style. This is one machine you will find yourself reaching for time and time again, whether you are chopping onions, whisking cream or pureeing baby food, it can handle it all.

This powerful machine does all the prep work for you.

Pros Chop, shred, slice, julienne, dice, knead, mix and purée

All-in-one storage Twist-free lid and base

Dishwasher-safe Cottage kitchen style

Robust Fridge storage lid For more information on the KitchenAid Food Processor 2.1L click here

9

Godox WL4B When it comes to videography lighting is everything and for even more mounting options and for control of the no matter how good our phone cameras are these days features when it’s out of your hands it can be connected to those harsh little flashes just aren’t flattering on anyone, the Godox Light App via Bluetooth. It is right here on the the WL4B from Godox is a wonderfully compact video app where you can play with the brightness, FX settings light, perfect for those working with minimal gear. Built and various parameter adjustments, there are 5 categories with a strong Waterproof body it has an IPX8 rating to play with which are divided into 13 modes. The CRI/ which means it can travel 30meters under water should you TLCI ratings are 97, this indicates an accurate rendition want to. It has a built-in 3.8V/1500mAh battery, this will of colour, suitable for macro photography, video shooting, provide about 1 hour and 20 minutes at its highest setting microfilm, live, portrait shooting and product shooting. and up to 5 hours and 30 minutes on its lowest setting, it There are two buttons on the lamp body, which can be charges via USB C (which is a little fiddley to access) and used to power-on, adjust the brightness and activate the roughly 1 hour and 40 minutes will give you a full charge. Bluetooth connection, the removeable, rounded silicone There are three 1/4” thread holes for more options when soft box spreads the light smoothly with zero hot spots. mounting the light on smartphones as well as cameras, This pocket-sized LED light does a brilliant job lighting drones and action cams. There is also an integrated magnet up your subject, whether you are recording or live which means the WL4B can be attached to metal surfaces streaming, rain or shine.

light up your subject anywhere, anytime, whatever the weather.

For more information on the Godox WL4B click here

£54

Pros Continuous lighting modes and 13 light effects

CRI/TLCI ratings are 97 Functional App Highly portable, just 116g Waterproof Robust housing Great value for money

11

Marmitek Surround Anywhere 221

Terminator 2. If you haven’t seen it, watch it in surround sound - the opening sequence is awesome with the HunterKiller sweeping from behind and entering the shot, well worth it! Of course, the problem with so many surroundsound systems is fitting the cables in places where it’s out of sight and actually having cables long enough to get the speakers where you want them for optimum effect. No more! The Marmitek Surround Anywhere 221 is, you guessed it, wireless!

Now, this isn’t anything necessarily new. There are many such systems on the market so what does this one bring to the table? Improved 2.4 GHz technology prevents interference from any existing Wi-Fi devices allowing you to use it with confidence and the transmitter and receiver are paired with secure pairing. So, if you need multiple sets in the same area, not a problem, you can have up to 6. The receiver has a built-in amplifier for your rear speakers and, because of the direct connection to your surround set’s speaker output, the speaker volume will automatically correspond to your surround set’s volume. There is also a separate volume control on the receiver ensuring you can get the right balance between your front and rear speakers.

All well and good but what about the sound quality itself? The digital link is uncompressed, leading to a sound quality that is better than a CD and without any interference or delay between your image on the screen and the sound coming through, equalling the performance of any wired surround sound system. With a reasonable pricing level (and if you’re going for decent speakers for a system that’s worthwhile, pricing is important!), this is definitely worthy of consideration. Now, Star Wars, A New Hope is next! Imagine that Star Destroyer in the opening sequence.

Great sound and a great price.

Pros €129.95 Wireless Good sound quality Both front and rear speakers can be connected

No interference from other Wi-Fi devices Cons Maybe too much of an excuse to stay indoors and ignore the Summer weather

For more information on the Marmitek Surround Anywhere 221 click here

13

Oscha Okinami Kaio Ring Sling When it comes to baby carriers and slings there are a lot of great choices out there but there are a few reasons why the Oscha immediately stood out. Firstly it is a carbon-neutral company, and their baby carriers are made with zero-waste.

Secondly the fabrics are woven in the British Isles from responsibly sourced yarns and handcrafted in the solar-powered Scottish workshop, each sling sold contributes to the growing Oscha grove which is helping to reforest the Scottish Highlands. On top of that are the beautiful designs, these include bright colours and animals, earth mother vibes and the stunning Middle Earth range, any Tolkien fan will appreciate these magnificent patterns.

We received the Okinami Kaio with the Right Shoulder Gathered Silver Rings; this brings together blue-teal and natural ecru tones to the waves and sky in this Okinami pattern. The sling is woven with BCI organic cotton and hemp blend, giving it a wonderfully soft but super strong structure whilst remaining naturally breathable and gentle on both baby’s and carriers skin. The Gathered Shoulder ring spreads over the shoulder distributing the weight, quick to slip on with a bit of practise, best suited for short trips and children who like to be up and down often. This sling is suitable for newborns all the way into toddlerhood, it gets softer over time without compromising support, the inclusion of hemp in the material helps to naturally wick away moisture, making baby wearing in the summer months a more comfortable experience.

The ring sling comes in a handy organic cotton tote bag its lightweight making it easy to store away and carry with you, it comes in a choice of either left or right shoulder wearing, this is based purely on the pattern and can be worn on either. When things get messy, and they will, the sling can be machine washed at 30 degrees and tumble dried ready to use again on your next trip out. The Oscha Okinami Kaio Ring Sling is well made in every sense, like all slings of this nature you will need a few goes to nail it but it is so worth it for the hands-free bonding and soothing it can provide both baby and wearer.

Pros

Carbon neutral company Beautiful designs Soft and supportive Breathable and naturally wicking Lightweight Portable This gorgeous sling comes from a carbon neutral company and is made from BCI Organic Cotton.

£100.80

For more information on Oscha Okinami Kaio Ring Sling click here

15

Babolat Pure Strike 103 Last time I played Tennis, I was still in school and man, has the technology come on! I used to have my own racquet and thought that was being flash… Now, as with many sports, a lot more attention is put into how things actually work and, as a result you get massive variations in design with differences noticeable to anyone with a passing interest in the sport. So, I’ll talk about this racquet from that point of view!

The 103 in the title refers to the area of the head itself (103 square inches), which is certainly larger than most kinds of racquets that professionals use but then, that’s not who this is aimed at! Because of the size of the head, there is a larger ‘sweet spot’ where you can still generate some pace and get some decent spin where needed when striking the ball and you can get away with a lack of accuracy which, it’s probably fair to say, is where most of us are at (well, certainly true for me anyway!). It’s also good for generating some spin on that ball and is not a bad weapon to have in a good rally but, if it comes to getting some power on the shot and in dealing with power shots coming at you, it can be a little lacking.

Other things to consider are the length at 685mm, which is a little shorter than most racquets and the weight of 285 grams, again a little lighter than average, both of which probably give you an idea of where this racquet is aimed at. The control does mitigate the lack of power so this is probably a racquet best suited to a junior player looking to move on to a more adult racket. Or someone like me who is a little less accurate than he would like to be.

$99.99

For more information on the Babolat Pure Strike 103 click here

Great precision and control

Pros Good control Ideal transition racquet Large area of head – more sweet spot Light – less tiring over a long match Cons Lacking in power Tough to deal with powerful shots coming at you

17

Tracklements Father's Day Bundle This little bundle came with the Robust Wholegrain Mustard (£2.40), earthy and piquant stir through cheese sauce or mash for a robust tang and some cheeky speckles. The Particularly British Piccalilli is the perfect condiment for Cheddar, cold meats, and pork pies, this version packs a punch of sharpness and crunchy texture. For a condiment with a difference there is the Sweet Mustard Ketchup the delivers a good strong kick and comes in a feisty shade of yellow, made with a combination of wholegrain and smooth mustards as well as a measure of sugar and spices for perfect balance. The Spitfire Chilli Mustard is a fiery condiment ready to give a kick to cold meats, cheeses and sausages whilst the Caramelised Onion Marmalade is the UK’s first onion marmalade, made with redcurrant juice, is great with pâtés, terrines and cheeses, as well as melted over sausages. All these little delights are gluten free and suitable for vegetarians and vegans, meaning even more people can enjoy them.

£18.25

For more information on the Tracklements Gift Set click here

19

LuminAid Packlite Max 2-in-1 It’s coming up to camping season! And I love it when that happens because you get little things like this turn up! With more and more people becoming aware and worried about our energy use and how this impacts the environment, the demand for greener energy is growing and solar energy is seeing the benefit of increased funding and better technology.

A lamp that doubles as a phone charger is one of the results of this: genius!

Now, my first thought was that, given how small this is, how practical would it realistically be? Well, it can chuck out light of up to 150 lumens at the highest setting, which is about as good as a half-decent torch so that’s a start and, if you use the low-light setting, it can last for up to 50 hours, which isn’t too bad either and perfect in an enclosed space such as a tent. And, of course, it charges via the solar panel so if the sun is shining, you’re all good although it can take 12-14 hours to fully charge via the solar panel. There is a USB cable included so you can still charge from another power source if need be. Another great feature of this device is the fact that it squashes up in to a flat little square 6x6 inches and only weighs 8 ½ ounces. Strap it to your backpack and let it charge while you’re travelling!

On the downside, this version is a little light on the phone charging and if you have a phone with a larger battery such as an iPhone 7+ or a Galaxy S8 you could find it doesn’t do quite as well as you may hope but it’s probably good to give you that little boost you may need, if not fully charge your phone.

Pros Very light Compact Good light source Practical Stows away nicely Re-charge on the go!

Cons Can’t charge a larger battery phone to full capacity If you’re on a long trek and the sun ain’t shining

Camping season is just around the corner For more information on the LuminAid Packlite Max 2-in-1 click here

£41

21

Tapo C320WS There are loads of security cameras on the market, so the very first thing I asked myself when reviewing this one from Tapo was “What’s so special about this?”. Well, for starters, it can record in full colour at night using its ‘Starlight Night Vision’. This means it is able to pick up a decent picture even if there is only starlight to see by. With a 2K QHD resolution and a 2560x1440 definition, it’s actually not a bad picture to be honest. But what about all the other bells and whistles?

It has the, by-now, standard motion detection that one would expect and, of course, notifications sent directly to you via an App. So, when the camera detects movement, you get told straight away. Handy for those deliveries when you’re not able to be at home or answer the door. A 2-way audio system allows you to have a conversation with anyone near the camera and this same audio system can also produce a siren noise, along with lights to scare potential intruders away. And, as you may expect for an outdoor security camera, it’s weatherproof, nothing surprising there.

My only criticism of this device is the fact that, out of the box and without any additional purchases, the only method for storing video is via an SD card inserted in to the device itself. If you’re relying on this camera for security, this is a little risky in my opinion – all it takes is for a canny thief to recognise it and remove the SD card. One useful feature it has to help mitigate this a little is a cover detection system for if anyone covers up the lens to hide their presence. You can purchase Cloud storage if you wish and this certainly solves the problem of the SD card. A decent picture and a few interesting features makes this an affordable camera in an increasingly busy market.

Pros High quality picture Sound and light alarm system

Motion Detection 2-way audio system Cons SD card memory storage is potentially vulnerable to a determined intruder

For more information on the Tapo C320WS click here

An affordable camera in an

£59.99

increasingly busy market.

23

Fluidstance Level Many of us spend most of our working days in front of a desk, unsurprisingly sitting in a desk chair isn’t the most body friendly thing for extended periods of time and quite a few people are now moving towards standing desks even if it is just for part of the day. To take it one step further Fluidstance have created a balance board to get your body moving whilst you work, we received the Level in a Walnut finish to take a closer look at. The Level has been designed to keep your body working on your natural micro-movements to strengthen and stabilise your body, we aren’t talking about attempting circus tricks whilst your type is very gentle.

These movements keep your joints fluid, burn extra calories, and keep you focused and alert, no more groaning and aching when you get up from the desk. The Level measures up a 26.5" L x 12.2" W x 2.5" H like a slightly thicker skateboard, the die-cast aluminium base is 0.19” thick with an arch like profile that keeps you moving. The whole thing weighs 7lbs, 12oz about as heavy as a small cat according to Fluidstance who get bonus points for using cats as a unit of measurement, the glossy wood finish compliments any office space and is easy to wipe clean of footprints.

The board comes with a canvas bag with two shoulder straps that makes it easy and comfortable to take to the office, there are even a couple of extra pockets to sort essentials like your keys and snacks. As a natural born fidgeter I loved this board, anyone who has seen me dance knows my legs do their own thing most of the time and it was great to keep them busy. It stopped me shifting about so much whilst I work and unexpectedly, I felt like I was more focused on what I was doing, that was after the initial 5mins pretending I was shredding the slopes on a snowboard, a great investment for anyone with a standing desk.

Keep your body as active as your mind whilst you work.

$259

Pros Premium materials A pleasure to use Creates gentle micro movements

Carry bag Lightweight and portable Cons Expensive

For more information on Fluidstance Level click here

25

Devolo Magic 2 Wi-Fi 6 Big house? Big family? Probably got teenagers? Then you’re bound to be familiar with the cry of “I need more WiFi! Who’s using up all the bandwidth?!” combined with a younger person’s life crumbling around their ears as they’re cut off from the only thing that matters… Yep, I’ve been there! And what I would have given for something like this back then. Sometimes, no amount of Broadband speed can make it happen when you’re all trying to get online and a booster needs to be considered.

In comes the Devolo Magic 2 Wi-Fi 6. Put simply, it uses the latest available technology to allow multiple users simultaneous access to the Wi-Fi where-as previous versions (Wi-Fi 5 or less) tended to ‘queue’ multiple devices, leading to a lack of connection. The main LAN adapter plugs in to the wall and you then connect the ethernet cable from your router to the adapter. Plug the

Wi-Fi adaptors in and they connect up within minutes.

It’s that easy! Apparently, it can increase the speed of the Wi-Fi connection by up to 50% over Wi-Fi 5 (up to 1800 Mbps according to the blurb) and utilises ‘Mesh’ technology to keep all your devices happily connected (not to mention the younger family members…).

The Wi-Fi adaptors also have LAN sockets so you have even more options and the signal is good enough to get through those pesky walls that have always been the bane of getting online, especially in larger houses. And, the bit I like best is the fact that it utilises OFDMA technology to break information in to small data packets, making online gaming that much smoother! It sounds great and could potentially solve a LOT of problems at home but it’s a bit pricey. Could be money well spent though!

Devolo have done it again! £349.99

Pros Easy set-up Doesn’t look awful when plugged in Solid security encryption with WPA3 Ability to set up parental controls, guest Wi-Fi and time control via the app

Provides a happier home Cons It does cost a fair bit For more information on the Devolo Magic 2 Wi-Fi 6 click here

27

Road Angel Halo Ultra The Halo Ultra from Road Angel comes packed with features to keep you and your vehicle safe on the road, this 4K front facing dash cam is the first dash cam that uses the latest generation of the SONY IMX415 image sensor. This top line sensor has an extended recording distance and clarification of obstacles that are hard to read with the naked eye all in UHD imaging, the 5Ghz ultra-fast Wi-Fi gives you transfer speeds that have been increased by up to 300% for faster and smoother downloading and viewing of your recordings. This little camera is easy to install and has a compact, discreet body with no screens to distract you whilst you drive, the built-in GPS and telematics will store you location and speed as well as data about the vehicle’s acceleration, breaking and cornering. The ADAS road monitoring conditions and advice system examines the traffic conditions whilst driving, this can be used to make the driver aware of pedestrians, vehicle proximity, lane departure violations, onward collision warning and front car movement warning.

The Winter Heating Mode is a clever addition that ensures the windscreen remains clear from frost and ice for the clearest view whilst the parking mode ensures your car is protected even when the engine is off, and you are away from the car. If you are involved in an accident the built in G-Sensor will detect the sudden acceleration and deceleration, the data is saved and will be sent straight to your Smart phone, the 140-degree wide angled lens provides a clear view of the road ahead and the peripherals. There is an internal storage option that has a 64GB capacity which will automatically overwrite old footage and there is optional sound recording which can be switched off for the privacy of the driver and passengers. The Halo Ultra goes above and beyond when it comes to road safety, it is easy to use with an intuitive and responsive app and all those added features can help you become a better driver too.

For more information on the Road Angel Halo Ultra click here

Angel by name, Angel by nature, this camera is watching over your safety.

Pros Internal 64GB storage £199 Built-in GPS 4K UHD SONY IMX415 image sensor Winter heating and parking mode 140 degree wide angled lens G-Sensor detects accidents and events ADAS road monitoring and driving advice 29

Soar Ultra Lightweight Gilet When it comes to running gear Tim Soar knows what he’s talking about, as both a London designer and a runner it was a natural step to produce running apparel incorporating textiles, technology, sports science and the real-world experiences of runners. The Ultra Lightweight Gilet is a highly technical outer layer that has been constructed with the smallest details carefully considered to cut it down to just 90g without affecting functionality. This waterproof gilet is suitable for cooler days through to milder days and for light to moderate rainy runs, it uses Soars unique Rainout fabric. This material combines weatherproofing with comfort, it is made from stretch-woven Italian fabric with DWR on both the yarn and the finished fabric, this means you are protected from water without the need of a secondary membrane and saving weight and keeping things breathable. The fabric is cut into a form fitting profile with cut out rounded neck that sits lower than your base layer, enhancing the ventilation and preventing rubbing on the skin.

The waist has a bonded seam, it is flat and ridged at the front and elasticated at the back, this allows it to move with the body but without riding up as your legs rise at the front. The arm holes also offer a good amount of stretch to provide plenty of room for vigorous movements from sprinting arms to jumping jacks on the warmup, high-stretch nylon back panel is feather light and soft to the touch. The front, shoulder and side panels have a thicker finish to better protect the core from the wind and rain, the whole thing is so flexible it can be folded down into a compact package and tucked into your waistband out of the way until you need it. Around the back is a generously sized zip pocket, this can be used to store the largest of mobile phones, and other mid-run essentials like gels and keys, the contents sit close to the skin just above the tail bone, so they don’t bounce around or cause friction. Taking into account the insanely lightweight and portability, wind and waterproofing, high flexibility and reflective detailing, this is as close to being the perfect running gilet we have come across.

Pros Lightweight, 90g Waterproof and windproof where you need it

Bonded seams Breathable rear panel

Highly flexible Tailored fit Zip rear pocket Reflective detailing

£130

Possibly the perfect running gilet.

For more information on the Soar Ultra Lightweight Gilet click here

31

Juicy Retreats JR Ultra 8000 S3 Fruit. Lovely stuff. But, sometimes you want the energy and goodness out of fruit without having the time to peel it/ prep it/munch on it and it’s so much easier in liquid form! Of course, the problem with that is if, like me, you just buy the nicest looking juice from the supermarket, you end up paying through the nose for it and if you go for the cheaper options, they tend to be made from a concentrate or have water added to them and you lose out as a result. So, a juicer would be a good shout, yes?

The Juicy Retreats JR Ultra 8000 s3 is a ‘slow juicer’. This basically means it avoids heat getting in to the process which can end up destroying useful enzymes and also means it gets the maximum amount of juice out of your fruit, if the leftover pulp is anything to go by. It comes with 3 different sized filters (smooth, thick and sorbet) so you have options, not just juice but thick juice! And I’m intrigued by the possibility of making sorbets using this thing, sounds delicious.

From a tech perspective, it does it’s thing at 50-60 dB’s (about normal conversation level, so no chance of drowning out those awkward conversations I’m afraid!) and has a 240 Watt motor. It has an automatic cut-out if the temperature gets too hot but you can comfortably use it to make quite a bit of juice before this happens and that’s if it’s in continuous use. The plastic is BPA free and dishwasher safe, making cleaning it a little easier. Speaking of cleaning, they’ve simplified the parts used in the juicing meaning less clogs and less pulp in the machine. Watch out for things like celery though, add that last! All in all, an impressive machine and the price tag may be justified with a 10 year motor warranty!

£494.99

Pros Easy clean A lot of juice extracted

Options for thicker juice and sorbet-style deserts

Quiet Cons It’s expensive!

Cleaning – no matter how much effort they put into this, there’s still going to be all that pulp to get rid of!

The JR Ultra 8000 S3 DuoDrive Slow Juicer has arrived.

For more information on the Juicy Retreats JR Ultra 8000 s3 click here

33

Microplane Premium Classic Zester

The iconic Microplane Premium Classic Zester has had a makeover, now available in 11 new urban, early colours including Pomegrante Red, Sage Green and Denim Blue. The new colours, inspired by minimalistic, harmonic Scandinavian design, completely replace the original palette (apart from Black and White, the classics!). The Premium Classic Zester is perfect for all citrus fruit, the teeth cuts to the perfect depth to only get the zest, and not the bitter white pith, it can even be used on garlic, ginger, nutmeg, chocolate and hard cheeses. It comes with a protective cover, there are little rubber feet on the end for stability and the grippy, ergonomic handle provides added stability and is made from stainless steel.

For more information on the Microplane Premium Classic Series Zester 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

Cardo Freecom 4X

Cardo are the leading manufacturer in the world of Bluetooth motorcycle helmet intercoms and have been one of the front-running companies with this technology for the last 20 years. So, there’s a certain reassurance that these guys know what they’re doing. This particular model has many functions, undoubtedly a culmination of their experience in the field and we’ll start, appropriately, with the Bluetooth itself. You’ll be pleased to know it utilises the latest version of this software (perhaps unsurprisingly!) which is currently at version 5.2, the latest update focusing on improvements to audio devices. As well as this, it has 2 channels built in meaning you can connect to 2 other Bluetooth devices at the same time (phone and cycle dashboard perhaps?) and universal pairing is included too so you don’t have to stick to the same brand when pairing those devices.

The App that Cardo provide, Cardo Connect, is nicely laid out in design with all the main functions on one easy to use screen, giving you the options of Audio, Phone, FM Radio and the intercom at the touch of a button. Particularly handy if you don’t want to use the voice command function and have your device within easy touching distance.

Speaking of the App, it doesn’t take too long to get it sorted when you first get the Freecom 4X set up and will instantly provide an update to the Firmware. It’s fairly easy to fix the device on to your helmet (you won’t be needing an electronics degree and takes about 15 minutes) and the update from the App will take just under 10 minutes to get installed.

Once you’re set up you can look forward to using the voice-activation to access 23 different functions including internet searching (I can’t help but think KITT from Knight Rider rebuilt as a bike!) and the ability to connect with up to 4 other Freecom 4X devices (although you have to pay more to get 4, the standard model is 2 connections) with a range of ¾ of a mile, terrain dependant of course. You can even share your music if you like (and now I’m just thinking Ride of the Valkyries as you and your mates approach the nearest meet…).

A handy thing with this model is the ability to have wired earbuds (although having these in while riding could impair your hearing a little too much so be cautious) while retaining all the functionality of the Freecom X4 – you’re not taking up a Bluetooth connection after-all. The speakers provided however, are good enough to give you a good, rich sound with volume enough if you like it loud through the JBL 40mm speakers so is there really a need for earbuds?

The speakers also come with two types of mounting – a clamp style or the gluing in option, dependant on the type of helmet you have.

The controls are fairly intuitive and well-designed. If unable (or simply don’t want to!) mount your mobile on your handlebars, the controls on the unit itself are easy to use. The front control is for your music and is the first thing your fingers will naturally come in to contact with – the ridged control interface also making it easy to locate, even with your gloves on. The control wheel is used to control the volume and a press upwards will pause the music. Easy. The device is waterproof and it doesn’t matter what weather is thrown your way be it snow, mud, dust or rain it will not effect it. The natural voice operation means you just say “Hey Cardo” and the X4 will do the rest.

Finally, how long will this last before recharging? Cardo state 13 hours talking time with 2 hours to fully charge it.

Can’t imagine many journeys lasting as long as 13 hours so it ticks all the buttons there!

For more information on the Cardo Freecom 4X click here

Another great model from Cardo! £235

Pros Ability to connect to up to 4 other Freecom X4’s Option for plug-in earbuds Easy to use App Automatically tries to reconnect for 10 mins – no need to restart when back in range

Good voice-activated options Cons Not the latest mesh radio technology

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Roborock S7 MaxV Ultra Remember the show Tomorrows World? They led us to believe that by now we would have robots doing all our household chores and we could just kick back with a G&T, well we are not quite at that stage yet, but we can make a start with our floors. The Roborock S7 MaxV Ultra is a two in one robot that can both vacuum and mop your floor, unlike other hybrid cleaners it can tell between the hard floors and textile areas, so it won’t soak your carpets and rugs.

This clever piece of tech will automatically detect when it’s on fabric and physically lift the mop element out of the way, it will also do this when it has finished cleaning to avoid spreading dirt around the house.

The integrated tank holds up to 300ml which goes a surprising long way, up to 200 sqm in fact, the 600g mop pressure and VibraRise sonic vibration technology scrubs your floors up to 3,000 times per minute.

The 470ml dustbin stores dirt day-after-day, when its finished cleaning and has returned to the dock it automatically empties into the 3lt dust bag stored inside the unit, this means the S7 MaxV Ultra can potentially go up to 120 days without emptying. The vacuum uses 2500PA HyperForce suction and is powered via the 5200mAh Li-ion battery that will last for up to 3-hours on a single charge, the multi-directional floating brush keeps the brush closer to the ground for a deeper clean whilst the all-new rubber brush is more durable. The S7 MaxV Ultra moves around your home using LiDAR Navigation, the onboard maps are accurate and use Adaptive Route Algorithms to work out the best and fastest routes for cleaning. The Multi-Level Mapping can automatically recognize up to four levels making it easy to move around upstairs and downstairs, unfortunately it cannot navigate the stairs itself…yet.

The app can be used to see where the robot has been, set cleaning schedules, adjust suction power, vibration strength, water flow, cleaning sequencing, you can set No-Go Zones, create invisible walls and control it directly via the remote. With its hefty price tag, we were expecting big things from this cleaner and it delivered, apart from a few niggles, the dock is BIG and not pretty making it difficult to tuck it away discretely. The mop can only use water which means you miss out on being able to refresh your floors with a cleaning solution or disinfectants, the vacuum isn’t the quietest when on the carpets, but I will let this one slide as it does provide decent suction, saying that it will leave some pet hair behind but even the big, corded vacuums struggle with ground in pet hair. The S7 MaxV Ultra is a high performing hybrid, the mop element is impressive and does a solid job even on irregular floor levels, the vacuum is equally powerful, it won’t replace giving your carpets a deep clean every so often but will easily keep on top of most daily dirt, making it a good choice for busy homes.

This highly effective robot mop and vacuum is ready to help you with one of the weekly chores.

For more information on the Roborock S7 MaxV Ultra click here

Pros Mop auto lifts on carpets $1399.99 Auto-empty dock Sonic mop vibration Impressive suction LiDAR Navigation with Multi-Level Mapping Child Lock Works with Alexa and Google Home Functional app Cons Dock is large Not the quietest

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Shokz OpenRun Pro We have just recently looked at the OpenRun from Shokz and before we could fully appreciate them the new OpenRun Pro has been released, so, is it already time for an upgrade or is it worth holding on to the originals a little longer?

The OpenRun Pro are Shokz most premium headphones and use most up to date bone conduction technology, Shokz 9th generation, they come in four separate designs Black, Blue, Beige and Pink. Just like their original counterpart they are made with a wrap-around titanium frame for a secure but comfortable fit that holds in place whilst you run, or even if you are mad enough to stop and throw in a few burpees. The open ear design allows for full situational awareness whilst you run, know exactly where the traffic, pedestrians and even other competitors are. The Pros also come with a Quick-Charge function but will hold an extra two hours taking it up to 10hours of play time per charge, ensuring they are ready to go when you are, if you have run out of charge just 5mins will give 1.5hours of play, that should be enough for most workouts. There is a slight reduction in the IP rating, from a waterproof IP67 to sweatproof IP55 Sweatproof we can only assume it’s due to the tech upgrade, but it shouldn’t really make a huge difference for normal runs and workouts, it can still handle sweat, rain and debris blown by the wind.

Those little controls are still there on the earpieces, fine for me and my little hands but those with thicker fingers might struggle to select the right button, the overall weight is very similar too, just a couple of grams heavier at 29g. The integrated microphone allows you to take calls on the fly, the dual noise-cancelling helps to deliver clear calls in both directions and does as reasonable job as most hands-free headsets. So, what about that new and improved TurboPitch technology? We were more than impressed with the OpenRun and how good the sound is for an open ear headset, this 9th generation claims to have even further enhanced the Bass for added motivation. The midrange and high range are just as enjoyable, clear and defined. When you compare the headphones directly then yes, you can hear a slight improvement, but it certainly isn’t enough to warrant an upgrade, however if you are looking at getting your first OpenRun headphones why not spend the extra £30 for the latest tech and longer battery life.

Keep an ear on your surroundings whilst getting that extra motivation from your favourite tunes.

For more information on the Shokz OpenRun Pro click here

Pros 10 Hours play time Comfortable and secure Dual Noise-Cancelling mic Enjoyable sound quality with enhanced bass Bluetooth 5.1 IP55 Sweatproof 9th generation Shokz TurboPitch technology 5-min charge for 1.5 hours of usage Cons Not worth upgrading the OpenRun Reduced IP rating

£159.95

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Kally Super Cool Honeycomb Pillow

I love the summer, longer days, lazing about in the sun, catching a tan, who am I kidding I just go pink and peel, but I can dream. The one thing I don’t like however is trying to sleep in the heat, after a while the pillow just runs out of cool sides no matter how many times you flip it. Kally Sleep are champions of a good night’s sleep, they strive to solve unwanted sleep problems by providing the most comfortable environment for you to snuggle down into. Starting in December 2018 with the Kally Body Pillow, they now have a wide range of pillows and accessories including the Super Cool Honeycomb Pillow. It is said that we sleep better in cooler temperatures, 18.3˚C to be precise so a cooling pillow is a great way to keep things feeling comfortable.

This pillow uses a 3D pressure relief TPE honeycomb structure that provides a cool surface, cool to the touch, this construct also helps to provide continuous airflow suitable for side, back and front sleepers. It is rated by Kally as a 5 out of 10 medium rating and measures up at 60cm x 40cm x18cm so it will fit into the majority of pillowcases. It comes with a soft polyester microfibre cover that sits over the Thermoplastic Elastomer layer, the inside is stuffed with hollowfibre filling and a visco elastic foam block to ensure the pillow maintains its shape over time. To keep the pillow in the best condition it is advised to fluff and plump by hand regularly, it can also be machine washed at 30°C to give it a refresh, yes you should be washing your pillows! The Super Cool Honeycomb Pillow is wonderfully comfortable, when comparing it to a regular pillow it is notably cooler but not just that it offers a good amount of support for the head and neck throughout the night.

Pros Notably cooler Comfortable Good amount of support

Good value for money Machine washable Holds its shape over time

No more flipping the pillow for the cool side, you’re already on it.

£39.99

For more information on Kally Super Cool Honeycomb Pillow click here

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Enabot Ebo Air

This was the kind of thing promised to us back in the day when Tomorrow’s World (Google it, if only to laugh at some of the wildly innacurate predictions!) fired the imagination and promised us so much! Well, it took a little longer than they thought but, finally, security robots are here! Not the ED-209 variety thankfully (Robocop this time) but a mobile home-security camera and communication device with a myriad of uses.

First of all, it can be set to patrol a perimeter using it’s 1080P camera which also has night vision and infra-red, recording as it goes. And, much like most fixed security cameras these days, you can connect to it via an App and observe as it goes or watch recorded footage later, if the need arises. Of course, you can also control it using the app ‘driving’ it around the home. And if your family is home, it has a two way microphone so you can converse with anyone via Ebo while you’re away. You can even talk to your pet if you wish, telling Ebo to go find them and leave it to entertain your furry friend for short periods of time. It even has a little red laser the cat can chase! There’s no Cloud storage either, it’s all on an SD card so no worries about privacy being compromised.

The downside is that, despite having an automatic function to go back to its charging station, it can often get lost and can’t find it’s way home, the battery dying while it hopelessly turns around in circles and anything more than a flat carpet is potentially going to stop it dead in its tracks. All in all, a fun bit of tech but not entirely sure I’d rely on it as my only security device in the home.

£299

Why not get your own robot bodyguard For more information on the Enabot Ebo Air click here

Pros Silent movement Small and light Camera with night vision Internal storage via SD card Able to stop itself dropping over edges and right itself if knocked over

Cons Can get lost and not be able to re-charge – not really suitable for long periods of time away

Not quite able to overcome all terrain – limited use if you don’t have hard floors.

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Proviz REFLECT360 Platinum E-Bike Jacket The REFLECT360 Platinum Men's E-Bike Jacket from Proviz has, like the name suggests, been created specifically for E-Bike riders, of course you can wear this jacket on any bike (or off the saddle for that matter) however it puts the needs of E Bikers at the forefront of its design. With the added power an electric bike supplies you don’t need to put in as much effort, this can result in the rider getting a little chilly, so this jacket offers higher levels of warmth than traditional cycle jackets. REFLECT360 is made using the Repreve material which is actually recycled plastic bottles and insulated with Dupont Sorona synthetic down on the chest and back for core protection in the colder months.

There is thermal stretch fabric with brushed waffle knit on the inner side of the arms and middle back delivering warmth whilst allowing for a full range of movement, the

concealed thumb holes help to keep the sleeves in place and the wind out. The REFLECT360 material provides exceptional visibility, it extends to the cuffs to help you to be seen more easily when signalling, the two-way front zip allows for easy access to under layers and even has glow in the dark zip pulls. There are generous side pockets which provide ample storage and the mesh inner means they double up as extra ventilation. There is another smaller pocket in the rear, a zip garage to keep the cold metal away from your skin, the loose cut makes it easy to layer up underneath and the water-resistant finish adds to the protection offered by this jacket. The Platinum is perfect for E-Bikers with its warmer design and looser fit whilst bringing with it that excellent 360 reflective visibility Proviz is known for.

£179.99

For more information on the Proviz REFLECT360 Platinum E-Bike Jacket click here

A warmer jacket for

E Bikers with 360 reflective visibility Pros REFLECT360 material Made from recycled plastic bottles Glow in the dark zip pulls Concealed thumb holes Reflective hem binding Zip pockets with mesh inner for secondary use as ventilation

Loose fit Water resistant and breathable Cons Pricey

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Ruffwear Approach Dog Overnight Pack

The first thing I immediately thought when looking at this was “wouldn’t it be cool if there was a little well-spoken fox riding around on the back of my dog, challenging people to duels and such…?”. Of course, this isn’t going to happen but without that kind of imagination knocking out such classics as Labyrinth, where would we be? Probably outside, in the fresh air, getting some good exercise with our best 4-legged friend I guess…

For those that like to go on week-long hiking trips or ridiculously long walks (fan of both personally) this is another of those items that you find yourself wondering why you never got one before. Dog bowls are a pain to fit in anywhere and they take up a ridiculous and awkward amount of space in your rucksack. And of course, you can’t not take them: you can’t rely on bowls just lying around so that your poor doggo can have a drink and a munch every now and then – the universe just doesn’t work like that (bit like those trousers, David Bowie…)! Instead, we have the Approach Overnight Pack which allows your dog to carry his own stuff around, and about time too!

All joking aside, this is, as usual for Ruffwear I find, a well-made piece of kit. The site has a measurement guide to help you (I love the fact that Ruffwear will allow you to buy 2 of these things with the intent of returning the one that doesn’t fit, no questions asked) and sensible recommendations for how much weight your dog can carry. There are two leash attaching points on the pack, it’s highly visible in low light and my dog seemed comfortable with the fit for several hours too! No reason to forget Basil’s favourite toys now.

The Perfect canine companion.

Pros Gives you room to put more essentials in your own backpack such as dog food

Well-made Customisable fit Well placed so any weight is securely in your dogs chest area (less weight on their back) Cons If your dog is not used to carrying packs, can take a while to get them used to it

£119.95

For more information on the Ruffwear Approach Dog Overnight Pack click here

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Ruffwear Palisades Multi-day Dog Pack Life has changed a lot since I was a kid, if I wanted to doodle, I had the choice of using fax paper, lined paper or the back of my hand, these days kids have the digital world to scrawl away without wasting paper.

The Oaxis has created myFirst Sketch Book and to stop the adults feeling too left out it is suitable for them too, it comes with a smart stylus, three additional pen tips, a leather case and charging cable. The thin profile makes it easy to transport at 138.3x11.8mm, it is also lightweight weighing in at just 335g, this also makes it suitable for little hands to use. The 10” LCD screen provides an 8192 pressure point sensitive drawing area with an anti-glare finish making it suitable for indoor or outdoor use. It is powered by a built-in 1000mAh battery that will deliver up to 50 hours of drawing time after a two-hour charge, the stylus pen will also require a charge up and will last for almost 200 continuous hours. There are unlimited colour choices to draw with, but these will require the use of the app, your art will only appear in green on the screen. The app will work in real time over Bluetooth, they can also be played back so you can watch your designs take shape, amendments can be made by adjusting the font thickness, pen type and tip size.

The Sketch Book has a built-in memory which can save over 1000 pieces of artwork and notes, these can be saved into JPEG files for ease of sharing and editing. The writing experience is quite natural with the screen reacting to the pressure of the pen and changing the line thickness accordingly, saving is straight forward, and the app is easy enough to use. An issue we came across is there is no erasing option on the Sketch Book itself, this can only be done in the app, you will need to delete the entire image and start again. On the flip side if the battery dies or you switch the Sketch Book off your image will remain on the screen, just as you left it, the next time you turn it on. The Sketch Book is a little pricey for what it can offer but if you are looking for an uncomplicated drawing pad it is a good choice, plus it’s high portability means it’s ideal for keeping kids entertained on the move.

£189.95

For more information on the Ruffwear Palisades Multi-day Dog Pack click here

One of the best just got better.

Pros Two leash Attachment points Padded handle for easier lifting Multiple pockets Well-made Customisable fit Cons Only one colour 51

On Running Cloudmonster

It is clear from the moment the box is opened as to why these shoes have the name Cloudmonster, these things are like a regular pair of On Running trainers which have been exposed to a full moon on Halloween. They come in Glacier/ Meadow and Acai/Lavender in the women’s sizes, Acai/Aloe and Frost/Surf in Men’s sizes, but it isn’t the colour that makes them stand out from the crowd it’s the whopping great clouds on the soles. The Cloudmonster has On Runnings biggest ever CloudTec which has been included for maximum cushioning and ultimate energy return for long road runs, they are light weight for something that looks so chunky at 275g and offer a 6mm heel-toe drop. These shoes also feature an ultra-powerful Speedboard, this has been designed to absorb the impact from the concrete, lock in that energy and then force it back into the front of the foot to push off on.

The tread is shallower in these shoes so stones won’t get wedged in between but they still might work themselves into the sides of the Clouds but it isn’t as likely, the rocker shape encourages the right running form and helps to roll from one step to the next. The upper is made with recycled light mesh for plenty of ventilation and the soft sockliner adds to the comfortable fit, this is so important as the slightest niggle can turn into a gruesome injury over long runs. If you enjoy the extra umph On Running provide but are looking to rack up the miles then the Cloudmonster could be right up your street, come for the mad look but stay for the propulsion, lightweight and comfort.

Pros Lightweight Ultra-powerful Speedboard Breathable Soft sockliner

Recycled materials Cons Not everyone are fans of the CloudTec Not for speedy

For more information on the On Running Cloudmonster click here

competitions

£150

Monster by name monster by nature.

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Indik8a The scariest thing about cycling on roads is the great big huge 4-wheeled death machines hurtling all around you! Not to mention the fact that many drivers see cyclists as annoyances at best and a danger at worst… Half the reason for this is not being seen and, when it’s dark not even knowing if the car behind you can actually see that you’re turning off, no matter how far you manage to fling your arm out. This is where Indik8a comes in. What a great idea!

Quite simply, you slip these beauts on your hands and, whenever you indicate to make a turn, you tap the button with your thumb. This makes the indicators on the back of your hand flash, allowing other road users to see exactly what you’re doing. Simple. So, what if you forget to turn it off and waste the battery? Or how do you know it’s definitely working? This is the bit I love – it also vibrates when the light flashes! Making it easily usable with an instinctive feel about it, leaving you free to concentrate on the road.

On the technical side of things, there’s no batteries to worry about – it charges via USB and they last for 330 indications per side. Probably a couple of weeks-worth of solid cycling there – enough to cope with the most enthusiastic of cyclists before a recharge is needed! As for the brightness, the indicators themselves are LED and shine at a brightness of 275 Lumens (brighter than most main bikelights) so should be easily seen, even in murky conditions.

The straps are also machine-washable – just make sure you take the indicator chevron off first!

The final thing to let you know is that they are very affordable for what they are. A very small price to pay for safety in my humble opinion.

For more information on the Indik8a click here

£34.99

Sensible, easy and intuitive to use and a very easy way to increase your safety on the road Pros Easy and intuitive to use Very reasonably priced Easy charge – no need for extra batteries Easy to put on/take off Great safety enhancer Adjustable straps allow them to fit over gloves Cons Wouldn’t recommend wearing long sleeves

55

Carry On Folding Piano 88

It is fairly common to see someone sat around the campfire with a guitar, what is less common is seeing someone sat there with a full-size piano, they aren’t exactly known for the portability…until now! The Carry On Folding Piano 88 offers a full size 88 key piano to practice on and entertain your friends where ever you are thanks to the built in speakers, rechargeable 8hour battery and ultra portable design.

The folding design uses hinges to break the piano into equal quarters taking it from 1324mm x 126mm x 21mm down to a compact 331mm x 126mm x 85mm and weighs just 1.6kg, it comes with its own carry case too. Unlike some roll up portable keyboards the Carry On offers proper physical keys much more like the real thing, having said that they are quite light and don’t respond to how hard you press them. There is a choice of either white or black, both designs come with a micro USB charging cable and sustain pedal, there is a built in metronome with six accent settings. There are 128 different voices (sounds) to choose from, the sound is a little tinny and synthetic but in the right hands it can really sound quite good, and for the learners there is a 3.5mm headphone jack to spare those around you, or you can put on one of the 30 demo songs and just pretend.

The Carry On could do with being a little more robust for something that’s portable, it feels a bit delicate so its not something you will want your drunk mates having a go at, it could also do with a locking system to hold all the bits in place when it’s unfolded because as it is it needs to be on a flat surface the same length as the piano. The Carry On Folding Piano 88 won’t be performing in any concert halls but that’s not what its been designed for, it provides a convenient and fairly realistic way to practice on the go and it does impressively well for its asking price.

For more information on Carry On Folding Piano 88 click here

Pros Built-in speaker £89 Stereo 3.5mm headphone jack Lightweight and compact Full length 88-key piano USB rechargeable battery for up to 8 hours playtime 128 tone, 30 demos and 6 metronome accents Sustain pedal and handy travel tote bag included Cons Sounds quality a bit tinny Could be more robust Doesn’t lock out when unfolded

Carry this full-length piano in your bag, ready to play anytime, anywhere.

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Snooper DVR-PRO with Lockable SD The Snooper DVR-PRO HD Dash Camera comes with the vehicle drive recorder (model DVR-PRO), main wiring loom, emergency record button and loom, 2nd camera input lead, two keys and the locking screw and tool. What sets it apart from most dash cams is that the micro-SD card can be securely locked away, this is important as this tiny little card contains so much personal data including GPS locations. This could also be an important tool for businesses to avoid drivers tampering with important information, this camera can take up to 128GB with is not included. The camera is a little awkward to install and the instructions could be clearer especially if it’s the first time you’ve set up a system like this. Once connected the camera looks discreet, it features a wide-angle lens that can capture 165° of the road in front of your vehicle, it records in high-definition 1080p and provides a good clear image with plenty of detail for evidence if needed.

The DVR-PRO uses the built-in GPS to provide tracking data to the recording, whilst the separate emergency recording button allows the driver to lock certain moments from being recorded over included those incidents that happen but don’t directly involve the driver’s vehicle. The camera will automatically start recording when the ignition is switched on ensuring every journey is being recorded, after the journey the built-in WiFi allows for the data to be downloaded onto the app. This is where things become a little stickier, the app is temperamental and struggles to connect sometimes, this just means the reliability takes a bit of a knock. As it stands it is a good camera, with reliable footage, the parking mode and automatic accident detection make useful additional features.

£279.99

For more information on Snooper DVR-PRO with Lockable SD click here

Lock away the sensitive data that has been recorded on your travels.

Pros Lockable SD card enclosure High-definition 1080p Automatic accident and event recording 165° viewing angle Built-in GPS Cons App connection temperamental Installation a bit fiddly 59

Snooper DVR-WF1 1080P HD WiFi Dash Cam If your vehicle isn’t being used by multiple drivers the Snooper DVR-WF1 HD Dash Camera might be more appropriate, this discreet little dash cam will easily tuck away behind your rear-view mirror and comes in at a lower price. This cam comes with a windscreen mount, USB vehicle power supply, GPS antenna (must be connected to receive GPS and Time data) and an 8GB micro-SD card, it records in high definition 1080p and has a 150° viewing angle lens. The built in 3 axis G sensor will automatically lock any recordings of accidents and events it detects as well as the 30 seconds surrounding the moment. As long as the GPS antenna is connected it will also have data on your precise location and the speed of the vehicle and when linked up to the PC Player software, users can view the recorded information directly on Google Maps.

There is an included 8GB SD card that will automatically overwrite the old footage when it is full, however the camera is compatible with up to a 32GB SD card if more space is needed. The camera will automatically start recording the moment the ignition is turned on, the images are bright and clear, even in low light, giving you all the detail necessary for evidence if needed. Just like the DVR Pro it has the built-in WiFi which can be used to download and view footage through the dash cam app, again the app is temperamental when it comes to connecting to the camera which is a bit frustrating as when it works it is fine. Saying that, if you are desperate to review the footage it can be easily linked up to the PC, the clear images and minimalist design make it a good choice to plug in and forget about.

For more information on Snooper DVR-WF1 1080P HD WiFi Dash Cam click here

A compact little camera with all the necessary features you need.

Pros Discreet and compact £129.99 Clear HD recordings 150° viewing angle lens Built in 3 axis G sensor Included 8GB SD card Cons Inconsistent connection to the app GPS antenna isn’t integrated into the camera Limited features

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