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July 28, 2008
The "New" Jawbone BlueTooth Headset
Last year I wrote an article about the original Jawbone Bluetooth headset. It worked exactly as promised, it effectively reduced most background noise allowing you to use your cell phone even in fairly loud environments.
Just like about everything else in consumer electronics, each year brings a new and improved model. Last years model used Jawbone's 'Noise Shield' technology, the New Jawbone uses 'Noise Assassin' technology. Does the assassin beat the shield, yes, but not dramatically. People at the other end of the line had slightly better call quality with the New Jawbone compared to the original. At my end, the two models were just about even.
But the comfort of the New Jawbone is much better than last years model. The new model is about half as large and about thirty percent lighter. Both models have a detachable loops that that go over the ear, but the new model is small and light enough to rest securely on my ear without a loop, much more comfortable, particularly when wearing sunglasses. And if you want to use the loop, the loops for the new model more compact and comfortable. Four loops are supplied with the New Jawbone.
A couple of other differences
- claimed talk time is reduced on the New Jawbone - it is four hours, on the original it was six, probably the result of the miniaturization, I average close to 4 hours on the new model,
- the charger is smaller, easier to carry for travelers, both models can be charged via a USB port.
Operation is the same as last years model, for details go to the original Jawbone review, the link is in the first sentence of this entry.
The New Jawbone is $10 more than the first, the MSRP is $129.00. It is available in black, silver and gold. For more details, please go to Jawbone.
The original Jawbone set the standard for Bluetooth headsets for cell phones. The New Jawbone has slightly better audio quality, is smaller, much more comfortable and only $10 more. $129 is a lot of money for a Bluetooth headset, but it is an excellent performer.
Do you use a Bluetooth headset with your cell phone? In many states its needed if you want to use your cell phone while driving. If you do use a Bluetooth headset, which one and how do you like it?
Posted by Bob Gatton at 8:16 AM | Comments (0)
July 1, 2008
Digital TV Converter Boxes
Do you own an analog TV that gets it's signal from an antenna. If you do, you will need to either get a new TV or buy a converter box before February 17, 2009. This is the date when TV stations will stop broadcasting an analog signal.
If you decide to get a converter box, its not that big of a deal. Its affordable and easy to install. You can get a $40 coupon (limit 2 coupons per household) by either going to DTV2009.gov, or calling 888-DTV-2009. After you have your coupon(s), go to a local or online retailer and buy a DTV converter box.
To install the converter box, disconnect the antenna from your TV, connect the antenna connection to the back of the converter box, and then connect the converter box to either the antenna connection or the video and audio inputs on the back of the TV. Plug the converter box into an electrical outlet and are you are good to go. In some situations you might need to adjust your antenna, or possibly purchase a new antenna. For help in choosing the right antenna go to Antenna Web.
The boxes that I have seen cost about $50 and up,before the $40 coupon is applied. If I needed a converter box, I would wait. First, almost all consumer electronics get cheaper as time goes by. In a few months you might end up with a couple of dollars in your pocket after applying the $40 coupon. Second, why bother now? I wouldn't wait until February 17, 2009, but maybe until next January, then get a coupon and buy a box. One thing to keep in mind, your $40 coupon is only good for 90 days after it has been issued.
Do you need a converter box? Have you bought one yet?
Posted by Bob Gatton at 6:12 AM | Comments (20)
