Science & Technology
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Sound Advice: Affordable headphones a great holiday gift idea
It is November already (where did the time go?) and the holiday season is upon us. Over the next six weeks I will highlight affordable products that make great gifts, and hopefully find some great deals along the way. Kicking things off are some truly exceptional and affordable headphones.
EarFun Wave Pro X Headphones: EarFun is a disruptive ...Read more
Sound Advice: Digital measuring tape follow-up and a high-end soundbar that's magnifique
Q. I was unable to find the exact digital measuring tape that you recommended (Fanttik A10 Pro) on Amazon. Do you have a link?
—H.C., Pittsburgh
A. For those who missed it, the Fanttik A10 Pro is a digital laser tape measure that shows the measurement on the high-resolution display when you pull out the tape. It also uses a laser to measure ...Read more
Sound Advice: Solid preamplifier options if considering an upgrade
Q. Why are stereo preamps with limited input capability priced in the thousands of dollars? I was looking at what a new two-channel preamp might cost in order to compare it to the price of repairing my Yamaha C-6 preamp. First of all, very few preamps had more then two inputs at best, and then, the costs of those were, well, out of this world.
...Read more
Sound Advice: Get it exactly right with digital laser tape measure
Fanttik A10 Pro 2-in-1 digital tape and laser measuring tool is a multifunction masterpiece: Kicking things off this week is one of the most useful and satisfying home gadgets I have ever experienced. There was an incredibly positive reader response to the handheld high-speed blower-dusters, which are probably the most popular household devices ...Read more
Sound Advice: Some tips when considering indoor TV antenna options
Q. Would you recommend a good amplified indoor TV antenna for broadcast reception? I live in a small condo about 20 miles from San Francisco's Sutro Tower.
—D.B., Alameda, California
A. A good indoor TV antenna is practically an oxymoron. When receiving over-the-air (OTA) transmissions, the antenna is absolutely critical, and it has been a ...Read more
Sound Advice: Good speakers and turntable that won't break the bank
Q. Regarding the combo of the WiiM Amp Ultra and TEAC CD player/FM tuner you wrote about recently, do you have a recommendation for $500 bookshelf speakers, as well as a turntable? I have been living with old inferior sound equipment for too long. I currently listen to iTunes and CDs and have have a collection of 1970s vinyl I am looking to ...Read more
Sound Advice: Combo makes a strong foundation for great sounding audio system
WiiM Amp Ultra and TEAC PD-301-X are a perfect hi-fi match: I receive many reader emails about buying a new high-quality stereo receiver with FM radio, as well as CD players. Unfortunately, affordable yet high-quality hi-fi equipment has become more and more rare, especially if you want FM radio. I recently tested a combo that makes a very ...Read more
Sound Advice: Wireless earbuds perfect for busy professionals
Soundcore Liberty 5 Pro Max true wireless earbuds are a high-tech marvel: Earbuds are one of the most popular categories that I write about, and several weeks ago I wrote about an old-school wired pair. This week I have what are likely the most advanced earbuds on the market. They redefine what is possible with their combination of high-tech and...Read more
Sound Advice: Great LED beauty device that doesn't require wearing mask
Q. I am interested in the LED light treatment for my skin but don't like the idea of wearing a tight-fitting mask. Do I have any other options? Have you been happy with the treatment?
—L.K., Mt. Lebanon, Pennsylvania
A. I've been very pleased with the results from LED, and am glad I found another treatment process since I had to discontinue ...Read more
Sound Advice: Turn up the volume on Bluetooth speaker deal
An awesome $349 Klipsch Bluetooth speaker for $79.99: I found this deal on the Klipsch Gig XXL speaker when I was looking for a wireless speaker for a friend. My mouth dropped open and I started spreading the word, and in the 24 hours since then multiple friends and family members have purchased a Gig XXL for themselves. I'm hoping many of my ...Read more
Sound Advice: Amplifying investment in headphone accessory
Q. I have Meze 99 Classics headphones that I use with my Apple headphone adapter, which plugs into the USB-C port of my iPhone. Everything sounds great, but I am wondering if I add a high-end amplifier DAC headphone adapter like the GO Link if it would be worth the $60 to $80 investment.
—J.T., Milwaukee
A. I do think you would hear an ...Read more
Sound Advice: Be wary of potential EV powertrain issues
Q. In early 2021 I purchased a 2020 Mini Cooper SE EV. I thoroughly enjoyed bopping around the city, and it was the perfect urban car for me.
In June 2026 I tried to start my car and got a red powertrain fault notification. It refused to move and was towed to the dealership. After several hundred dollars in diagnostics and several hundred more ...Read more
Sound Advice: Portable speaker boasts upscale sound, design
Q. I was looking at the Andover Audio Songbird HR streamer you wrote about and saw the FreePlay speaker on their website. What do you know about it? I need a portable speaker like this for listening outdoors, in the kitchen and in my garage. I like the looks but don't know much about the brand or the speaker.
—D.K., Wexford, Pennsylvania
A. ...Read more
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