5 comments about Startech.com 4 Port IEEE-1394 FireWire PCI Card with Digital Video Editing Kit ( PCI1394_4 ).

1. This card was easy to install and works well. The included software and cable are acceptable as well.



2. The card was super easy to install and works great. Can't be much simpler than that!



3. This is a great deal for a firewire port and cable. Came quickly, no problems. The Ulead software is almost useless if you have Windows Moviemaker, but it's nice that they throw that in there anyway. I haven't fully explored it, but it didn't seem as good to me. Overall, great deal!



4. I bought this card for use with my mini-DV camcorder. The card worked flawlessly and was true plug and play right out of the box (atleast on Windows XP Professional). The only issue I had was with the supplied ULead software which required a license key that was not included in the package. I emailed StarTech customer service and they sent a key promptly. However the ULead software was buggy and had issues with playing audio during preview. So I use Windows movie maker to transfer video from the camcorder. I am extremely happy with StarTech but not satisfied with ULead software.



5. I use a Mac G4 Power Mac for video editing and was looking for a quick fix when my firewire400 died. I ordered and received this card within a week. Installation was a breeze and I was up and running in under 15 minutes. No drivers, no fuss. Just plug and play. I've done a few short subjects with this card and so far so good. I didn't bother with the Ulead software, as I already have video editing software.

2 comments about Cables To Go 6FT PREMIUM UNIV PWR-CORD BLK ( 03131 ).

1. I got one of these cords to replace a power cord for a laser printer. The cat had chewed up the old one. It's working well and seems to be a pretty heavy gauge cord, so it probably would do well with equipment with a high current draw.



2. This power-cord is exactly what I needed. Good quality. I'm very happy with this purchase.

4 comments about Kicker iK500 iPod Speaker Dock (Black).

1. Ordered a JBL soundstage ll and returned it after 10 minutes. Wanted it for poolside but the volume outside was pathetic. Might be ok for a small room. The remote, which was supposed to be RF, hence powerful, had to be within 5 ft. of the speaker.
   
   I ordered the Kicker to replace it and was just blown away.
   
   Volume goes to 40 on the dial, but I doubt you'd ever push it past 20. I've got a $1500 stereo system in the living room and this summer the Kicker will make me feel like I brought it outside. The bass is unbelievable! Goes to 50 hz, tight and super defined. Clarity throughtout the audio range. This speaker could serve as a main speaker in your living room for all your music. The remote worked at 20 ft. with instant response. Actually, I didn't try it further, might go 30 ft. Pretty damn good for an infrared. Built in carrying handle, nice wide stable base with rubber ft.
   If you want your ipod to fill a huge room or take it outside to blast away at poolside, this is the one for you. I know $300 is a lot of money, but then quality always costs. Truthfully I've only had this a short time so longevity isn't something I can speak to, but Kicker has a great rep in the auto speaker business.



2. I purchased the Kicker after returning the Altec Lansing IM7 which was freezing my iPod after every few songs. For a small unit the sound is very good. The remote works very well and is easy to use. I find it light weight and easy to transfer in and out of the house. The space area for doing this could be improved as I am only able to grab it with fingers and thumb. The Kicker has separate bass/treble controls although too much bass quickly starts muffling the sound. I have not listened to the other products similar to this, but recommend that Kicker be a serious consideration when choosing a sound dock. I did read that some other units do not have options for treble/bass adjustments.



3. So I have a 20G iPod of the 3rd generation variety . . . Now imagine my surprise--after being assured that the iK500 works with any iPod--when I couldn't get my iPod to work on the thing. I knew it couldn't be a problem with my iPod because I have a 'Peripheral' adapter in my car that allows me to run directly into my stereo--it even allows me to change songs, fast forward, and reverse . . . not to mention charge the thing. So there's definitely no problem with my iPod. So why wouldn't it work? After an hour or so of tampering without success I began to think that there must be a problem with the plug on my particular iK500; that I should send it back and exchange it for another . . . That's when I found the answer--it was in the part of the directions that tell you how to use the remote control. It says, "Note: 3rd generation iPods are compatible with the iK500 but will not charge while docked or respond to remote control functions." (WHAT!?!) But this statement is a bit of a lie since plugging the iPod into the iK500 disables its (the iPod's) buttons, making it impossible to actually start, stop, or change a song--or interact with the iPod in any way. Gosh, that would make it seem like it isn't really compatible at all, wouldn't it? It turns out that the only way I can get my iPod to play through the iK500 is to start a song with the iPod unplugged and then connecting it to the iK500 while it's playing. But then it won't play more than one song by this method, meaning that I'd have to unplug it after every song, start the next tune manually, and then plug it back into the socket again. No thank you.
   Like I said, I listen to my iPod through my car stereo every day using the exact same plug to do all of those things that the iKick says it can't do with the 3G iPod. So there really is no real reason for this incompatibility other than an attempt at forced obsolescence. But what really torques me is that there is no mention of the fact that the functionality of the system is limited if you use it with a 3G iPod, and even when they DO mention it, it's wrapped up in another lie. (Note: 3rd generation iPods ARE compatible . . . what a load)
   I guess I could keep my iK500; I could just plug my trusty old iPod into the iK500 using the 1/8th inch jack . . . but then I could have done that with the stereo I already have and saved myself a load of grief and hassle in the process. It's really too bad that you can't give less than 1 star.



4. Kicker iK500 iPod Speaker Dock (Black) This is an excellent speaker system for portable use. It has very good sound quality and excellent volume. I also like the option of inputing a laptop or other MP3 player to this speaker system. Two minor shortfalls: 1. the carrying handle is built into the top of the box and is a bit shallow for an adult's hand; you get the impression you will drop the speaker. 2. the dock station is about one centimeter to short. My 40G, fourth generation, click wheel iPod just barely fits into the dock. But it does fit and the remote control works to move thru the songs, something most other protable speaker systems do not accomplish. It would be nice if a carrying case were either supplied or offered as an option. Overall I am very happy with this purchase.

2 comments about TDK T-120 VHS Cassette - 6 Hour.

1. TDK manufactures excellent six hour blank VHS tapes for all purpose general recording of audio-visual media. As long as you have the right kind of equipment, these tapes record television programs off TV or they can be used to make copies of a non-copyright protected VHS tape. These tapes have six hours worth of blank recording space; and this is useful when recording television shows, for example.
   
   In addition, you can record onto these tapes using different speeds so that the tape records two hours worth recording time, four hours worth recording time and six hours worth of recording. (You use your VCR to set this.) The best image quality will be at two hours worth of recording time but many people say they're satisfied with the image they get using the six hour recording time speed.
   
   The tapes allow you hours upon hours of viewing enjoyment because you record onto them over and over again countless times although after some use the picture quality will eventually begin to gradually deteriorate.
   
   Unfortunately, these tapes cannot produce the same quality recording reproduction as a digitalized copy would give you. This means that if, hypothetically, you were to copy a DVD-R onto another DVD-R instead of a TDK blank VHS tape, the quality of the audio-visual media on the DVD-R copy would be sharper and clearer than a TDK tape or any other brand of video tape could give you. Moreover, VHS tapes can break if not handled with care. These shortcomings frustrate me and therefore I will have to take off one star to make this a four star review.
   
   The tapes have small pieces of plastic on the narrow front edge of each VHS tape which you can punch out easily so that accidental recording over an existing recording is impossible. If you do wish to record over an original recording then you can merely place a small amount of regular tape over the hole. The VHS tape is now ready to record a fresh recording.
   
   Overall, TDK makes a great choice when you want reliable blank VHS tapes to record television shows or anything else that you wish to record. I have used this brand for many years and I cannot think of any major complaints. I highly recommend TDK premium quality six hour VHS tapes for you to use when you need to record something onto a VHS cassette tape.



2. i recently purchased this tape ( 12 pkg. bundle ) because i recently purchased a new dvd/vhs combo and didnt want any old tapes going into it.
   i record hours upon hours of all types of programs and after viewing i
   record on it again. tdk , a leader in vhs tapes and much , much more stood
   the challenge i gave it. brand name , quality and price was the reason for this purchase. note: keep your tapes in vhs plastic containers , buy
   a quality vhs head cleaner ( make sure if your vhs is wet or dry for
   cleaning ) and these tapes will last quite awhile. i suggest not putting in old tapes of any sort because it will eventually wear out your player.
   a tdk wet or dry cleaner works great. remember, u get what u pay for and
   with tdk and proper care your all set. ps: if u are going to record thru
   your vcr or digital camera their are higher grades by tdk and i suggest
   you get those so u can view for many yrs to come. don barajas

3 comments about Pro Cable in ear iPhone Headphones with Microphone and Play/Pause Button in Black.

1. I needed a backup for the headset that came with my iPhone and this one certainly works well, but the control for answering calls or pausing the music is not as conveniently located as the one that comes witht he iphone. The left ear bud that has the control has a much shorter cable than the right one, which makes it easy to easily know which is right and which is left. The sound quality is very good and I would recommend this product.



2. I bought these directly from RadTech when they came out. I must say I wasn't expecting much for $25, but these things are awesome. They fit and sound way better than the apple headset. Also, the uneven cord design is nice because you can easily tell which is left and right and it allows u to throw the longer cord around your neck so you can easily pop them out and let them hang on your shoulder without them falling to the floor. The mic and phone/music control button work as advertised. I would recommend to anyone looking for a replacement headset for the iPhone!



3. RadTech's ProCable is an in-ear headset designed for use with the iPhone. The headset includes a speaker for using the phone feature on the iPhone. The narrow plug is also compatible with first generation iPhones with the recessed jack.
   
   Unlike the earbud style headset that comes with the iPhone, where the speakers sit just inside your ear, the ProCable is an in-ear solution, where the speakers are fitted inside the ear canal. This helps isolate sound from the speaker from extraneous sounds. ProCable comes with two sets of interchangeable tips for the speakers. I would have liked to see one or two more sizes included, as the small tip was too small and the large was a bit too big. I reckon a medium would have been just right.
   
   The microphone for the ProCable is located at the juncture of the two speaker cables. This is also where the talk button is located. Initially I found the talk button to be too close to the speaker, simply because I couldn't see the switch. However, after just a bit of use I actually preferred having the switch positioned as it is. The cables are asymmetric from the juncture, with the cable being longer to one ear than the other. I personally don't care for this type of cable design but it is a common style in headphones. The included clip (detachable) helps keep the cables from pulling the speakers from your ears.
   
   The speakers and microphone worked well and as expected during phone use. Being able to tuck my iPhone in my pocket and work interchangeably between phone and music with just a click of the talk button on the cable is nice.
   
   I found the audio quality for music to be surprisingly good, especially considering the price. The audio was nearly as good as that of my V-Moda Vibe headphones which cost four times as much. Music sounded a bit tinny, but not annoyingly so. The talk button doubles as a pause button during music play, a nice feature.
   
   ProCable comes in five different colors including black, gold, aluminum, pink and blue. If you're not a big fan of the headset that came with your iPhone, the ProCable is an alternative you may wish to consider. For the money, you'd be hard-pressed to find another product that compares to the features and quality of the ProCable.

3 comments about CD File Folders, 1/3 Cut Tabs, Assorted Positions, White, 100/Pack - VZ01096 / IDEVZ01096.

1. I use this system to organize my DVD collection. It saves a ton of space and the DVDs are still easy to find.



2. I do a lot of photo filing of RAW Images of weddings. These make it easy to keep track of them all. I have used hundreds of these over the years. Great product!!



3. I love these. I have hundreds of movies and music. I saved a lot of space by throwing out the DVD cases and CD cases and using these instead. I used my labeler and put their title on the tab. It keeps them organized and alphabetized much more effectively now. You do have to be careful though because the tabs to do bend easily. I also started putting bigger labels on the sleeve fronts with movie summaries of the DVDs and song lists of the CDs, but its very time consuming. I suggest if you have large collections of DVDs, CDs and/or video games, these can be great, but only if you are willing to put in some time organizing them.

1 comments about Dekcell Battery for Sandisk Sansa E250 E280 MP3 Player with Tool.

1. I need this for my Sansa, to keep it chugging along. Works great, and you even get a little screwdriver too!

No comments about Creative Labs Screen Protector for Zen X-Fi.

5 comments about StarTech.com 20FT PREMIUM TOSLINK OPTICAL ( TOSLINK20 ).

1. Purchased for the surround sound of my new LCD TV. This cable does exactly what it is supposed to do...transmit optical signals. It provides the highest quality digital signal for audio available for the consumer and THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS LOW QUALITY OPTICAL SIGNAL-it either works or it doesn't. Your ears/eyes cannot tell the difference between this 25 dollar toslink and a mon**** toslink for 5 times the price. Oh plus I needed 20ft and you know who, the "monsters" of the cable industry don't even make one. And in fact, there is no difference. Its called marketing and big name companies package their stuff all nice and hit you with this spiel about how you gotta pay big bucks to get the best. Wake up peeps- the reality is that it doesn't make a difference and if your super-human ears could actually hear the difference then you need to be battling villains with the X-Men...not watching TV.



2. Purchased to run from PS3 to A/V Reciever have had it for over 1 month now works like a champ build quility exceeded my expectations for a cable costing so little money is top notch



3. Feels like a professional grade product. Works perfectly to connect my Mac Pro to my surround sound system in my living room.



4. StarTech has constructed the Mr. Universe of optical cables with this model. Its over 1/4" in diameter! This cable feels very sturdy, and the heavy duty connector jackets match the strength of this cable. I have used this to connect my PS3 to my optical reciever and it works flawlessly. I highly reccommend this product. You wont find a better one at such a low price point. I guarantee you that.



5. The thick optical cable is made of good material and is guaranteed to last long. The audio quality is excellent and if you're looking for a cable that won't crap out or randomly cut out the signal, this is the one for you. **Highly Recommended**

5 comments about Harman Kardon Portable Speakers and Docking Station for iPod (Black/Silver).

1. This isn't going to be lengthy or technical...I think that's been done already. I rely on the reviews here at Amazon for just about every single thing I buy on-line. That being said, this is the one and only review I've ever been compelled to write myself. I was looking for iPod speakers for out by the pool (installing a new pool this season). I had two requirements - they needed to be adequately loud and they needed to sound GOOD. After many hours of research and indecision, I stumbled upon the HKs. The reviews alone were enough to convince me that I was making the right choice...now, after actually hearing the speakers - HOLY COW. If you can afford the extra $100, you can completely FORGET about the Bose SoundDock and go with the HK. I've never heard the two other close competitors (Altec Lansing iM7 and Apple Hi Fi), but enough other reviewers have compared all of them side by side...HK pretty much always comes out on top in the reviews. I love the design (a bit awkward with the iPod being horizontal, but who cares), I love the portability, the volume I'm afraid to even test at its max (it's that loud!)....and last, THE SOUND QUALITY. I've never heard anything like it. Clear, deep, rich, beautiful. Worth every penny...EVERY PENNY.



2. Many thanks to the other reviewers. Based on your comments, I took a chance with this sound system. The Harman Kardon ROCKS. It is also a hungry bugger when it comes to batteries, but I've found a good work around with a good rechargeable battery. If you like bass and want a boom box with boom, this is your unit - ENJOY!



3. I purchased this unit a couple weeks ago and I am very impressed. It sounds fantastic and it's super simple to use. My girlfriend thought it was ugly, I think it looks great. As for lack of bass and treble controls- you don't need them. Why do people think they have to fiddle with everything? There is some mis-information out there on the drivers. They are all on the front- two metal dome tweeters, and two long-throw woofers. Each driver driven by a 30 watt amp. (30x4) There is a long bass-reflex port going to one of the grills on the back. The other is a dummy. It comes with an 18v AC to DC power supply. You can run it on 8 "D" cell batteries, which I haven't done yet, but that is only 12v so expect volume to be a bit less. Plugged in it is quite loud and at full volume distortion is almost inaudible. Bass is full, tight, and quite deep. It sounds better than any other portable I've heard. I've been listening to it mostly through a portable XM radio reviever. I bought a refurbished unit for quite a bit less than full price, but after owning it I wouldn't have complained had I paid in full.
   How could it be improved? A rechargable battery would be nice but would add cost. Some have complained about the location of the ipod (on top), that doesn't bother me at all. I put a 12v dc out jack on mine to power my xm reciever. Harmon ought to consider lowering the price a bit. Not that I don't think it's worth it, but they could sell more.



4. The sound quality is incredible - second to none!
   
   Why only two stars? First, it isn't compatible with the iPhone 3G. (I don't know about the original iPhone because I don't own one.) Not only isn't there an adapter for the dock connector, but the device doesn't fit in the recessed resting area.
   
   Second, the integration with my iPod mini is poorly conceived. The device is smart enough to tell when music isn't playing after a while and turn the power off, but:
   - it doesn't automatically turn on when you turn on your iPod
   - it doesn't turn off or even pause your iPod when you power it down
   
   These are basic and integral functions that are inexcusable to neglect. I'm returning mine for a less expensive Bose.



5. I LOVE this boombox!!! I've owned 2 different Bose systems (1 for dvd/tv and 1 for ipod) and the Harmon totally blows them out of the water. Well worth the money and very portable unlike the Bose. Best and clearest sound ever. You can turn it up super loud and it doesn't vibrate or distort the sound. Great product.