Tech News
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Holiday Hardware Giveaway With Thermaltake
Published: Sunday, December 4, 2022 | By: DennisWith the holidays just around the corner and the start to a new year I teamed up with Thermaltake to give away some awesome computer parts.
Up for grabs are the following.
- Thermaltake ToughPower GF3 850W Power Supply (1x ea)
- Thermaltake ToughLiquid 240 ARGB AIO Cooler (1x ea)
- Thermaltake H700 TG Black (1x ea)
Contest end Jan 2nd 2023 at 11:59 PM PST
A Total 3 winners will be announced on Jan 3rd, 2023.Follow the instructions below to enter and good luck!
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Creative Pebble Pro: Beauty Comes with Beats
Published: Wednesday, November 30, 2022 | By: DennisSINGAPORE – 16 November 2022 – Creative Technology today launched Creative Pebble Pro, the popular Pebble speaker series’ latest and best addition, which boasts a compelling mix of size-defying audio quality, minimalist elegance in form, and a subtle yet distinctive personable touch of RGB lighting to adorn any desktop setup.
This new 2.0 USB speaker system sees various improvements across its features set, headlined by its audio performance. With revamped full-range drivers, and featuring digital amplifiers with built-in audio processing, which replace analog ones used in previous models the Pebble Pro belies its diminutive form factor with more headroom for louder, clearer audio across the volume range, as well as up to 3.5 times more bass than the previous model Pebble V3.
Two of Creative’s proprietary audio technologies apply further audio shine:
- BassFlex - delivers an extended low frequency response and deeper bass across all volume levels, without the need for a subwoofer
- Clear Dialog - enhances vocals such that they sound more natural and are easily comprehensible; this is especially helpful when watching movies on the PC
Considering its tiny size, the Pebble Pro’s acoustic power output is capable of reaching a mind-boggling 30W RMS and 60W peak when connected to a 30W PD adaptor*, which unleashes the full potential of its audio competence.
The visual appeal of the Pebble Pro is accentuated by a new RGB lighting feature, tastefully integrated at the bottom of each speaker. Users can take their pick from a wide color spectrum by conveniently dialing the volume knob to set the mood of the day, and illuminate their desktops creatively with 3 lighting effects (Cycle, Pulsate or Solo).
Other features which make the Pebble Pro a must-have desktop accessory:
- A wide array of connectivity options that include Bluetooth 5.3 wireless technology, 3.5mm AUX-in port, USB-C port for audio streaming and power
- Headphone and microphone ports to transform the Pebble Pro as a convenient communications tool, or for late-night private listening
- Series signature 45-degree elevated angle for optimal audio projection to users’ ears
- Long wire (1.8m / 5.9 ft) connecting both speakers; offers more flexibility in placement
- Long USB-C cable (1.5m / 4.92 ft) for connection to the computer
Pricing and Availability
Creative Pebble Pro is priced at US$59.99 and is available at Creative.com.
For more information, visit www.creative.com/PebblePro.
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Funky Kit Review - Crucial P3 2TB M.2 NVMe PCIe 3.0 SSD
Published: Tuesday, November 22, 2022 | By: DennisWe have reviewed quite a few Crucial SSDs and found them to be pretty good when it comes to compatibly and performance. The only thing missing is a mainstream PCI Express 4.0 drive.
The Crucial P3 2TB SSD is faster than we expected, and delivers all the best features anyone could ask for. If you're looking for a well-balanced and decent performing SSD at a reasonable price, with options for higher capacities, then you can be sure that the P3 will deliver all that and more.
one great thing about buying "older" storage drives is that they tend to be cheaper and will get you decent enough performance that you really won't be able to tell the difference.
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Pulsar X2 Mini @ TechPowerUp
Published: Tuesday, November 22, 2022 | By: DennisWhat is great about computers is that as they have matured, they have also become extremely customizable. Instead of flat black fans we can now get ones with amazing colors and different degrees of "blow" The interface devices have also changed to better match personal preferences like this item, The Pulsar X2 Mini. This is an ultra-light mouse with name brand switches and a great sensor.
As the name suggests, the Pulsar X2 Mini is a smaller X2. Weighing 54 g instead of 56 g, the ambidextrous X2 Mini is otherwise identical: PixArt's latest PAW3395 sensor, Kailh GM 8.0 switches for the main buttons, pure PTFE feet, and up to 70 hours of battery life.
The mouse also has no cord so when you rage quit from "any" game you can easily throw the mouse and not damage anything in your room.
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Lexar Announces New Lexar Professional CFexpress Type A Card Gold Series 320GB
Published: Friday, November 18, 2022 | By: DennisSan Jose, USA, November 8, 2022 — Lexar, a leading global brand of flash memory solutions, is proud to announce the new Lexar® Professional CFexpress™ Type A Card GOLD Series in the 320GB capacity. Ideal for professional creators, photographers, and videographers who want to capture high-quality images with superior read speed up to 900MB/s The 320GB model will be bundled with the Lexar® Professional CFexpress™ Type A / SD™ USB 3.2 Gen 2 Reader for a more seamless workflow from field to post-production.
Key Features:
- For photographers and videographers who demand superior performance with transfer speeds of up to 900MB/s read
- Transfer speeds up to 900MB/s read, 800MB/s write, and minimum write speed of 700MB/s
- Large capacity of 320GB for professionals with demanding workloads on the go
- Bundled with the Lexar® Professional CFexpress™ Type A / SD™ USB 3.2 Gen 2 Reader for seamless workflow
- Smooth and high-speed capture of high-quality images and 8K and 4K 120FPS video
- Rated Video Performance Guarantee 400 (VPG 400)
- Lifetime limited warranty
With read speed up to 900MB/s and write speed up to 800MB/s, Lexar® Professional CFexpress™ Type A Card GOLD Series 320GB is designed to seamlessly capture high-resolution images and cinema-quality 8K video. It is also ideal for professionals who need to handle demanding workflow on the go.
Also, the Lexar® Professional CFexpress™ Type A Card GOLD Series 320GB allows professional creators to get back to business without having to constantly switch cards. And for added peace of mind, the card is also rated Video Performance Guarantee 400 (VPG 400) meeting a minimum write speed of 700MB/s so your content is captured seamlessly without dropping a frame.
With superior performance to capture cinema-quality video, the Lexar® CFexpress™ Type A Card Gold Series in 320GB delivers the rugged durability you need to protect from temperature, shock, and vibration allowing you to capture more adventures and store valuable data in a variety of elements.
“We are excited to announce the Lexar® Professional CFexpress™ Type A Card GOLD Series in the 320GB capacity. And, with the Lexar® Professional CFexpress™ Type A / SD™ USB 3.2 Gen 2 Reader included, professionals can expect top performance and speed up their workflow from capture to transfer and editing," said Joel Boquiren, General Manager of Lexar.
Lexar® Professional CFexpress Type A Card GOLD Series 320GB with Lexar® Professional CFexpress™ Type A/SD™ Card Reader bundle is available now for purchase online at an MSRP of $ 699.99.
Availability:
- Amazon
- B&H
- Adorama
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NVIDIA RTX 4080 Launch Day
Published: Wednesday, November 16, 2022 | By: DennisLast month NVIDIA launched their flagship Ada Lovelace GPU the RTX 4090. This card provided to be a monster in both out of box performance and power consumption with many users showing that the new power adapter would melt due to some design flaws.
We cover this controversy in Episode 141 of the Hardware Asylum Podcast.
The RTX 4080 was announced during the RTX 4090 launch and promised to be an extremely powerful GPU designed for mainstream gamers who realize that the RTX 4090 is too expensive for most everyone and would rather explore the world of "custom" video card offerings from various vendors who will offer custom cooling solutions and various factory overclocks.
Below you will find a sampling of video cards reviews from around the web.
Web Reviews
MSI RTX 4080 Gaming X Trio @ LanOC Reviews
ASUS STRIX GeForce RTX 4080 Gaming OC @ Guru3D
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 Review: Ada Lovelace For Enthusiasts
Colorful GeForce RTX 4080 Ultra White OC @ TechPowerUp
Zotac GeForce RTX 4080 AMP Extreme @ TechPowerUp
ASUS GeForce RTX 4080 STRIX OC @ TechPowerUp
Gainward GeForce RTX 4080 Phantom GS @ TechPowerUp -
Noctua introduces NA-IS1 inlet spacers for suction applications and NA-SAVG2 gasket set
Published: Thursday, November 10, 2022 | By: DennisThere has always been a heated debate when it comes to "Push vs Pull" for fan orientation. Typically, we configure fans to "push" air though heatsinks, we push air into computer cases and video cards even push air across their cooling systems. Needless to say, "Push is Popular"
However, "Pull" or when you position fans to pull air through a heatsink you actually expose more surface area to be cooled since there is no longer a dead spot directly under the fan motor. You also don't need to deal with the cone of air exiting the fan and only cooling the edges of your heatsink.
The only major drawback to the "Pull" orientation is that the fan blades are closer to the heatsink and often cause annoying rhythmic noise that can be difficult to filter out. Fans in the "Push" configuration have a natural spacer which creates an air gap and thus reduces the adverse harmonics.
Noctual has introduced a new product to address this issue directly called the NA-IS1 Intake Spacer and NA-SAVG2 anti-vibration gaskets.
Noctua today introduced its new NA-IS1 intake side spacer frames for suction or “pull” type applications where fans draw air through obstacles such as grills, perforated plates, mesh panels, filters or radiators. By offsetting the fan from the obstacle, the NA-IS1 can significantly reduce influx turbulences and thereby help to improve both acoustics and performance. In addition, Noctua also introduced the NA-SAVG2 anti-vibration gasket set for using 140mm fans on water cooling radiators or other applications that benefit from a tighter seal with the fan.
Both of these products are great options to ensure that air intended to keep your system cool is directed exactly where it needs to go.
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Focal Bathys Bluetooth Active Noise Cancelling Headphones @ TechPowerUp
Published: Wednesday, November 9, 2022 | By: DennisWow! I am surprised on several levels. First who knew there was an audiophile quality audio brand in France?!?. Seems they have been in business for over 40 years and make some top notch gear. Second, You can actually buy them here in the US. and Third they are not cheap as the headphones featured in this review are $800 dollars and other designs are over 2 Grand!!. (Well I am assuming USD, Focal if French and TechPowerUp is German so... ya)
Seems I learn stuff I should already know every day LOL
Focal enters the competitive wireless ANC headphones market with the all-new Bathys. It is a $799 audiophile-centric set of over-ear, closed-back headphones with hybrid ANC, physical controls, app-based customization, and even a dedicated USB DAC mode that aims for a punchy and satisfying sound you can take on the go.
From a design perspective these headphones look amazing and seem to have "borrowe4d" or "influenced" some of the design queues found in most every other headphone maker on the market.
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Cougar Puri Mini Mechanical Gaming Keyboard @ Funky Kit
Published: Wednesday, November 9, 2022 | By: DennisThe interesting thing about "small" keyboards is, they are everywhere and gamers seem to love them. Not only do they take up less space on your desktop but tend to feature higher quality components because there are less components to deal with.
Funky Kit has their review of the Cougar Puri up and while Cougar isn't a well known brand in the US they do have some quality products available.
The Cougar Puri Mini is a keyboard that offers great quality and performance for a respectable price tag. The small compact size offers plenty of features for such a small size. This would be a great keyboard to take on the go!
For a similar keyboard check out our review of the Yeyian Spark 2000.
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SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P Wireless Gaming Headset Review @ Madshrimps
Published: Sunday, November 6, 2022 | By: DennisGaming headsets have come a long way in recent years and no longer depend on your PC or what sound card you have installed. Instead, they rely on USB adapters which do two major things. They first send audio information to the headset to support surround sound and other audio functions and second open up options for wireless connectivity and the premise of this review.
When compared to the Arctis Nova 3, the Nova 7P sports a very similar sound signature, since it is using the same set of custom speaker drivers, 40mm with a frequency response between 20 and 22kHz. We tested the headset in both multimedia content and games, and we really enjoyed the combination of crisp highs and great sounding lows, even when using the default EQ. The price difference exists because of the WiFi/BT convenience, which does even allow listening to two sound sources at the same time, the great battery life during a single charge (38 hours) with fast charge support and overall, we are getting increased liberty of movement given the operating range.
Steelseries is a rather popular brand and, while I am not a fan of the design the overall specs look pretty good.
