Noah Company MediaGate GP-IR02BK Windows Vista Home Premium and Windows Vista Ultimate MCE Remote Control, 2 Channel IR (Black) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This remote seems to work well for the basic MCE functionality, but it has some issues that hamper its usability (for me.)
First, the "learning" feature that's been mentioned elsewhere. The MS remote for MCE has the ability to "learn" to turn your TV on/off, and to adjust the volume on your stereo (or TV.) This remote mentions such a feature in the manual ("if available"), but the version sold here doesn't actually have this feature. Having to juggle three remotes gets cumbersome, especially when the "standard" MCE remote doesn't have this problem.
Second is response time. As implied in my previous paragraph, I also have an MS MCE remote. The MS remote/receiver is quite responsive. With this remote you have to hold down each button longer for it to "register" as a button-click with the receiver. At first I thought it was an issue with the remote itself, but I later realized it's an issue with the receiver. (The receiver that came with this remote will work with the MS remote, but it still has a "sluggish" response time. No such issue if I go back to the MS receiver.) If you're used to clicking through menus (or commercials) quickly, this gets aggravating because it doesn't register some of your clicks.
Finally, this remote is extremely lightweight. It has no heft to it. This might actually be a good thing if it weren't for the learning issue, but since I'm not actually using the remote for its intended purpose, this means I can't even use it as a paperweight on my coffee table.

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Control your Set-Top Box with this Remote Control The receiver also has (2) IR Ports and includes (1) IR emitter that emits a signal that will allow you to control your set-top box with this Remote Control at the same time. 2 in 1 Function! Pefect for Media Center PCs with Satellite Set-Top Box Users!

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5.8ghz Wireless Audio Video Sender 8 Channel Broadcast Transmitter & Receiver with Alarm Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)when you shop at amazon said he had a scope, but call the manufacturer and says it is only 200 feet, since the power is just 10mW. a toy, not something semi-professional

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allows you easily broadcast your DVDs, DSS, CDs, MP3s, Satellite, PC, gaming console, streaming video and more to any TV or stereo system in your home or office, without wires! The Wireless Sender applies advanced long-range 5.8GHz radio frequency technology to offer users the ability to link any audio/video/computer source to TVs, monitors, stereo systems, and personal computers without wires or cables. A wireless transmitter & receiver system that can transmit full motion video and crisp audio signals up to 450 feet. It is perfect for sending signals from one room to another. The Wireless Kit even has a built-in infrared remote control extender that allows you to remotely control your transmitting device's functions (,DVR, Camera, DVD, satellite, etc.) from where you are watching or listening. Why be limited to watching DVD movies on your PC Screen or listening to MP3 audio files through your PC's speakers? Anyone can easily install and configure the 5.8Ghz Wireless Sender within minutes. Avoid interference from 2.4GHz wireless devices such as 802.11b/g wireless LAN, Bluetooth, cordless phones, etc. Four selectable channels also help prevent interference. The 5.8Ghz Wireless Sender will work through walls, floors and ceilings!

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Pyle PL102PHRB Pair of Adjustable Headrests with Built-In 10.2-Inch TFT Monitor and IR Transmitter (Black Color) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Bought these for my son's SUV. Staff at Best Buy, Frys, car audio stores couldn't get them to fit or work. Big mistake buying this product. Don't buy something like this online. Get them at a store and be sure they fit. These don't fit most vechiles.

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On long trips, it\'s important to keep the backseat entertained and the driver comfortable. That\'s where this pair of black adjustable headrests with built in 10.2" LCD monitors come in. The picture on the screen is bright, crisp and accurate, thanks to the 800x480 resolution, 300:1 contrast ratio, 25ms response time, and 16:9 display ratio. These take two standard RCA inputs, so you can hook up your DVD player, video iPod, or video game console with ease. A full function remote control provides complete wireless access to your monitor\'s settings. The kids will enjoy themselves in the backseat and you\'ll be comfortable and safe in the front knowing a headrest will protect you. These monitors are also compatible with IR wireless headphones, so you can enjoy peace of quiet while the backseat has a blast. Best of all, these headrests are easy to install, and fit in many car and SUV models.

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Sony MDR-DS3000 Wireless Digital Surround Headphones Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I've had these headphones for about 3 months and I love them.
I listen to music pretty much constantly while I'm working, and though I have some good speakers in my office, I find I focus better with headphones on. I had gotten tired of wired headphones, as the wire always gets fouled up in the chair.
First, the sound quality is excellent. It's not as good as high end speakers, but these headphones are a lot cheaper than high end speakers. I own about 10 pairs of headphones (don't ask) and these are definitely the best.
In the office with these wireless headphones, I can get up from my chair and wander out of the room without taking off the headphones. My office is about 14x14 ft, and the IR signal covers the entire room. I have never had any drop-outs or other interference while in the office. When I walk out of range, the headphones go silent with a slight hiss.
As other reviews have noted, there is a small quiet hiss when nothing is playing. However, the solution to reduce the hiss is not to crank the volume on the headphones, and instead turn up the amplifier. This works exceptionally well. I have these plugged into the headphone jack of a basic $200 receiver.
The other wonderful thing about these headphones is that there is no on/off switch to manage. Instead, the headphones turn off when the inner band of the headphones has no tension on it--in other words, they turn off when they are not sitting on your head. The band is part of the "self-adjusting" feature, and it really works. You just put the headphones over your head, pull the speakers to your ears, and the headphone band adjusts and the headphones power on. This definitely helps with battery life. I haven't really measured the life of the batteries other than to know I only have to charge every now and then.
Although the headphones contain electronics, batteries, and are somewhat large physically, my head does not get tired of them. The earcups are fabric with some padding rather than leather, so my ears don't sweat nearly as much as they do with other leather earcups. Very nice!
The set comes with an optical cable. The back of the base has an optical input and two RCA plugs. I use a 1/4"-to-two-RCA cable from Radio Shack to connect these to my receiver. The base also has a magnet to assist when placing the headphones on the base for charging--the magnet pulls the earcup with the charge connection to exactly the right spot.
Overall, this product is awesome due to its exceptional engineering. The headphones are expensive--no question--but they are worth the money.P.S. Another reviewer noted that this product doesn't work with Plasma TVs. I don't know anything about that, but that review made me worried if it would work in a room filled with LCDs--my office has many LCD monitors. The good news is--they work fine. Also, I can sit either facing the base station or facing directly opposite the base station and the signal continues to come in fine.
UPDATE July 2008: I've had these over two years now and have been using them perhaps 12-20 hours a week, depending on the week. I'm still on the original batteries; they still hold several days of charge for me. I recently moved into a larger office (13 x 25 with vaulted ceiling) and the stand sits in a corner and covers all the line-of-sight visible areas of the room. Still very happy with these.
UPDATE Nov 2010: I've had these headphones almost 5 years. They are still my favorite and I am still on the first set of batteries--and I use these a lot!

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Enter a world without wires with the new MDR-DS3000 Infrared Wireless Headphones. These headphones are ideal for DVD players and other components with Dolby Digital, Dolby Surround or DTS Surround Sound.These unique open-air headphones are comfortable (can also be used with normal 2-channel stereo systems), cordless and have a 23 foot transmission range, a 90 degree transmission angle and a self-adjusting headband. For superb sound andmobility, the MDR-DS3000 Infrared Wireless Headphones make the perfect addition to your home theatre.

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Delphi XM Signal Repeater Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)XM reception inside buildings can be frustrating - especially for those of us living outside the range of the terrestial repeaters in many large cities. This repeater setup gives us mobility in an apartment or modest house (even two stories).
It is important to understand that this system repeats the XM digital signal on a different (900 MHz) frequency than that used by the satellites and the urban ground stations mentioned above. This means that the XM radio can't pick up the repeater signal directly. Each radio will need its own attached 900 MHz antenna, and will need to be in a dock to use it. This set includes one such antenna - more can be bought seperately. One repeater can drive any number of XM radios, so equiped, within its range (a few rooms).
I use mine with a Pioneer Inno, mounted on a Delphi SA10221 XM Portable Satellite Radio Boombox. The 900 MHz antenna mounts on the back of the boombox, in a provided slot, held by a screw. So, the repeater doesn't noticably effect the portabality of the boombox, which we move from room to room, plugging into AC power, but not using batteries. It should work with batteries, but at what cost to battery life I don't know.
A TIP: It can be hard to find a good inside location for the satellite antenna, an issue this repeater fixes, if ANY single good location can be found for the repeater transmitter and its attached satellite antenna. Our trouble was that no CONVENIENT location could be found. The ultimate solution is an outside antenna, perhaps with an in-line amplifier, driving this repeater system. My son in rural WY needed such a set-up to get reliable reception in the winter. But, like me, you may get away with a simple trick.
Attach the satellite antenna directly to your XM radio (suitably docked or boomboxed), and select the signal strength display from the radio's menu. Use this to move the antenna to likely receiving locations, looking for a convenient place with room nearby and power for the repeater transmitter, where a strong signal is displayed. If you find such a spot, leave the antenna positioned and swap its cable from the radio to the transmitter. If you CAN'T find a good signal, here is the trick: Locate the antenna in a likely convenient location (2nd floor, southern wall, etc) where you'd expect the best signal and move & aim the antenna while watching the signal strength. THEN TRY PLACING A METAL PLATE OR PAN, or similar size metal decorative object a few inches away. Slowly reposition the antenna and the metal object. Even a fraction of an inch can be significant. If your preferred location has any signal at all, you may find a precise arrangement that yields a strong signal. Then, swap the antenna plug from the radio to the transmitter and as long as you don't disturb the magic setup you should get good reception, which then gets passed through the repeater to your radio(s).
Final caviat: older 900 MHz wireless phones will disrupt the repeater signal, even from several rooms away, but only when they are in use (talking/ringing). This could be a problem in an apartment or closely spaced houses if a neighbor has one. The newer 2.1 GHz and 5.4 GHz phones (and WiFi Internet routers) don't seem to interfere though.

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The Delphi SA10116 Indoor XM Signal Repeater allows you to enjoy XM programming even in interior environments without direct satellite reception (e. g., away from a window with a clear view of the sky). The compact transmitter works with any Delphi XM home kit or audio system, rebroadcasting more than 150 XM Satellite Radio channels of sports, talk, news, comedy, 100 percent commercial-free music, and more.
The Signal Repeater can transmit the XM signal to one or more Repeater Antennas, placed up to 75 feet away, even through walls and floors, and comes with a transmitter, repeater antenna, AC power adaptor and mounting hardware. Wireless XM eliminates the need to run long, unsightly and impractical extensions between your home antenna and receiver.What's in the Box Delphi SA10116 transmitter, antenna, AC power adapter, mounting hardware, quick start guide, and owner's manual.

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Cisco-Linksys WMA11B Wireless Digital Media Adapter Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)...
First Impressions:
Nice packaging. Nice looking device, it's not much bigger than a four port hub. It has both the Cisco and LinkSys logos on the face. Vertical or horizontal mount. The package contained the device, quick setup poster, and a CD.
Installation:
I have an existing server, running Win2K Server, that I store my MP3 collection on. This product works by installing an agent on a PC and then connecting the device over a hard wired LAN or WiFi (802.11b). My setup allows me to use either LAN or WiFi and of course I chose the wired setup for max bandwidth and so I could actually listen to music and use my phone or microwave without dropping packets and thus songs. The agent installation was flawless and the media adapter and my server were talking within a few minutes after cracking up the box. Once the agent is installed on a PC, you really only have one option: Point the agent to your media. So of course I decided to point it to my entire (29 gig) mp3 collection which began in a single MP3 folder. Well, it starts to "Search" and then simply would disappear. No error, no nothing. Ok, maybe my collection was too big, so I start dragging my genre folders which were maybe 1 gig a piece...same thing happend. Ok...so I decide to drag a single album over to the agent and finally it seems to take the 6 songs in the folder and I rush over to my TV to fire up the device...it was able to play three of the songs and then the entire folder disappeared and thus I had no music to pull up anymore. After a few reboots and trying different folders I had similar results. My trade, I'm an IT guy...so there were no 'technical user' issues...I can assure you of that. To this day the device is flakey. It forgets entire folders for no reason at any given time. I've even loaded XP with similar results.
Audio:
The sound is on par with my expectations, though I wish for the price the device would have at least coax digital out. Your stuck with a pair of RCA, which I hooked a pair of Monster cables up to for optimal sound. The unit is equipped with an Intel StrongArm 400 MhZ (The same processor the latest PocketPCs use) and thus is pretty good at decoding and playing the MP3/WMAs.
Display:
The menus are sloppy. There is absolutely no customization on for menus either. There are NO visualizations while songs are playing. You can't see anything important like bit rate or most of an ID3 tag (genre, year, etc.). You are stuck with an unsizable screen that shows you the track name and album name and running time. That's it. Plus they use such a huge display, that a band or song title with a long name (13 chars +) gets lopped off. Sloppy stuff all around on the visuals. Again, I expect more.
Photos:
Photos are displayed well. No real problems here. The device sure could flip through them faster though with this processor. One plus is the ability to play MP3s while viewing photos. However, some lag does occur on larger photos. Whether this is due to bandwidth, processor, or a combination I'll leave up to the "engineers" over at Linksys to figure out and hopefully fix over the next decade or so...
Support:
This is where the stars began to seriously dive. ... I doubt the engineers who designed this paper weight released this as a stable product under their free will. It's a joke.
Conclusion:
... I would recommend looking at the new Gateway DVD/MP3 network device or waiting as this market opens up more. We will all want to stream over DivX movies, MP3s, and every other type of media soon. I'm just going to wait a few years while they refine this technology better.

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The Linksys Wireless-B media adapter lets you bring the digital pictures and music stored on your computer to your home entertainment center, without running cables through the house. Using a wireless connection, the media adapter displaysyour digital photographs on the TV for the whole family to enjoy. And your digital music collection is finally freed from those little computer speakers and can play in full glory through your stereo system.
The Wireless-B media adapter sits by your home stereo and television and connects to them using standard consumer electronics cables. Then it connects to your home network by Wireless-B (802.11b) wireless networking or, if you prefer, it can be connected via standard 10/100 Ethernet cabling. Using the included remote c ontrol and the user-friendly menus on your TV, you can browse through the digital pictures on your computer by folder, filename, or thumbnail. You can view pictures one at a time, or watch an automatically created slideshow of all the pictures in a given folder. The media adapter supports five popular picture formats: JPG, GIF, TIF, and BMP. Use the remote control's Zoom button to get a close-up of the details in your pictures. You can also use the remote to browse your MP3- or WMA-formatted music collection by title, artist, genre, folder, or playlist. Choose the music you want, and let the Wireless-B media adapter play it through your stereo system. You can even let music play in the background while you browse your pictures.
Power and Simplicity

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Jensen DSC-IR100A Remote Control Extender Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I bought a set of these on EBay, & was very irritated to find out they would not work. The little red light that indicates the receiver is receiving & retransmitting the signal just flashed continually. I tried everything, even aluminum foil on the antennas, thinking they needed better signals to talk to each other. I then went to Best Buy & bought another set of the same thing, thinking the ones I bought on EBay were defective. When I got them home they just did the exact same thing. After several hours of rearranging the silly things I finally gave up. That's when I started doing some research, starting here. After seeing the comments, I got to thinking about where the people that actually got these things to work said they had placed them.
IE: "I've got a satellite with TiVO and have piped the output to both the upstairs and downstairs in my house. I have used this device to control the TiVO from both extremes with no problems."
I also noticed everyone that was having problems were using them as they were really intended. (Like through a single floor or wall.) Taking all of this into account I tried an experiment. I lowered the antennas on both units. That was it!!! Apparently they were getting too strong of a signal & interfering with each other. Kind of like when you get two walkie talkies too close together & you get that horrible feedback. Now the light is off all the time, unless it is receiving & retransmitting like it is supposed to be.
Something that simple should really be in the instructions as a troubleshooting step at the very least. Also "customer service" should have it as a first troubleshooting check. For those reasons I am giving it 4 stars.
You should not be afraid of this product as it does what it is made to do! Granted the documentation that comes with the product is sketchy at best, but try what I said, they work like a charm for me now, you just might be surprised how well they work for you too! I'm not saying this is the end all fix, but they do work great for me now, & they would not even send one command before I lowered the antennas!

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You're in one room with the TV on in another when you hear your least favorite actor begin talking in his obnoxious nasal voice. The sound is like fingernails on a blackboard but you can't get into the room to change the channel. If this scenario is familiar, then you need to pick up this Infrared Signal Repeater which converts any IR remote control to a thru-wall remote & is capable of operating your home entertainment system from up to 100 feet away. It may just save your sanity!

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