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Do you drive regularly or commute daily? Then you know that being on the road and getting to your destination can be quite a challenge. Road works, traffic jams, speed cameras... even a short journey can be time-consuming and costly.
Now you can drive smarter, every day - wherever you go.
TomTom has the complete solution in one convenient package: TomTom LIVE services. It offers you a real-time connection to the latest route information (such as traffic information and Search & Go etc.) straight to your device; saving you time, money and stress.
"I'm impressed by the ability to get up to the minute traffic information, which proved to be accurate (e.g. indicating just where a hold-up starts, and what is happening on other potential routes which avoid the problem). Also impressed by the accuracy of the forecast of arrival time."
"LIVE services go far beyond my expectations and offer excellent value. It probably saves its cost in fuel saving and definitely cuts down on stress whilst driving".
"The service allows you to concentrate on driving rather than attempting to spot the turning before passing it. You get a complete guide to travel time distance and speed traps. I cannot do without it."
"There are no longer any mysteries about what lays ahead or if you are on the fastest route. Tomtom keeps you updated with very accurate information on delays ahead and the alternatives available to you. The secret is 'Trust your Tomtom' and I certainly would not be without it."
"Very fast updating of traffic problems, useful info such as weather updates for your destination etc."
TomTom LIVE Services offers the best real-time services straight to your TomTom device, all in one convenient bundle:
With LIVE Services you don't have to worry about any additional phone costs. You will save time and money making use of this great combination of services.
TomTom LIVE services are 'live connected' services.
This means that information and updates for each service - such as the latest traffic information, or weather forecasts - are sent directly to the SIM card of your TomTom device. So you don't need to activate anything and don't need to connect a mobile phone to your navigation device. Just get on the road, and your device does the rest.
At the moment you can only use TomTom LIVE Services on the TomTom GO LIVE, VIA LIVE, GO 950/750/550 LIVE, the GO 940/740/540 LIVE and the XL LIVE IQ Routes™ edition.
The coverage is for GO LIVE 800 and 1000 series and Via LIVE series devices only.
For other GO LIVE series and XL LIVE devices, the coverage is limited to the following 8 countries: the Netherlands, the United-Kingdom, Germany, Belgium, France, Switzerland, Portugal and Italy.
TomTom LIVE Services includes TomTom Traffic, Mobile Speed Cameras, Expedia, Trip Advisor, Search&Go with TomTom Places, LIVE Quick GPS and Weather. It brings you the best real-time TomTom services straight to your device, allowing you to get the best route, taking into account any traffic incidents on the way.
You already have a TomTom navigation device? Click on the 'Buy Now' and find out if your device supports LIVE services.
The TomTom LIVE Services is available on all TomTom LIVE devices, within the GO, XL and Via ranges. Check out the product section for specific products.
No, there's no need for a mobile phone. All TomTom devices that offer LIVE Services are ready to use. You do not need to connect anything and can directly make use of the free introductory subscription to LIVE Services for 1 Year.
With the TomTom GO LIVE devices however, you can connect a mobile phone to your device via Bluetooth™ if you would like to take advantage of the great car kit function in these devices.
No, currently every LIVE service is available in a bundle only for LIVE Services devices. If you want to buy separate services, you can have a look at the additional services that you can download via TomTom HOME desktop software or buy via the TomTom Webshop.
TomTom LIVE services is a bundle of services with a real-time connection. Information and updates are sent straight to your device over the air or every time you connect to TomTom HOME desktop software. With LIVE Services you pay a fixed amount per year, so you don't have to worry about any additional phone costs. You will save time and money making use of this great combination of services.
To use TomTom LIVE Services, you need to have a LIVE connected device. If you do not have a LIVE connected device, you can subscribe to a lot of useful and fun services via TomTom HOME. This is desktop software you can install on your computer with which you can download these services directly and separately (not in a bundle) to your TomTom device.
However, to be able to use the services that require instant updates (such as Traffic or Buddies), you will need a wireless connection set up via your mobile phone (for example via GPRS).
When your introductory subscription expires, you can start a new subscription yourself via TomTom HOME or www.tomtom.com. It costs just £47.50 for a 12 month pre-paid subscription.
If you decide not to renew your LIVE Services subscription once the free introductory period has ended, you will still be able to use all the navigation functions on your device. And if you decide to renew your subscription to LIVE Services at a later date, it's easy to request this via TomTom HOME desktop software or MyDrive.
There is no minimum subscription period to LIVE Services. You can end it at any time - all you need to do is give one month's notice.
The GO LIVE series and Via LIVE series devices have coverage around Europe in at least 17 countries, check for detail in here.
The GO 940/740/540 LIVE, XL LIVE IQ Routes edition can receive LIVE Services in the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Portugal, Belgium, Switzerland and the Netherlands.
No, not at all. TomTom takes privacy of personal information very seriously, and the information we see is entirely anonymous. We only see information about the speed and direction travelled of TomTom device users. We don't know anything about the devices themselves, including who owns them.
You can opt for a prepaid card with access to LIVE services for 6 or 12 months. This is a one of payment and is available via TomTom HOME, our webshop or your local retailer.
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The Lettia Coolmax® Ear Net is designed for maximum horse comfort with its moisture-wicking Coolmax lining. This high-quality fly bonnet is complete with tassels and logo patch.
The LETTIA Signature Series Ear Net is simple, elegant and effective. This ear bonnet is finished with contrasting trim, rope accents and a logo patch.
The Amigo® Mio Fly Sheet offers your horse complete protection from insects and UV rays. This fly sheet with hood is constructed with Horseware's classic cut for comfort and to prevent slipping. Made of soft polyester knit with nylon-lined shoulders.
The Rider's International Bug Free Fly Sheet in tightly woven mesh protects your horse from flying insects. Bugs can't bite through, yet it's still lightweight and flexible. The full neck cover has no opening for bugs to enter. Lycra® at the neck ensures your horse can graze comfortably.
Woven polyester mesh fabric is extra durable and protects against flies and coat fading. The Saratoga Summer Fly Sheet features invisible shoulder gussets that allow free movement, a contoured fit and easy care.

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Revel in majesty with this genuine gemstone bangle. Four oval stones of rhodonite are set in sterling silver frames around the bangle, lending the piece warmth and energy with their pink hues. Uniting the stones and forming the foundation of the bangle is an intricate span of sterling silver, with swirling scrollwork designs and twisted rope borders. This bangle is beautiful when stacked with other bracelets or worn alone. Bangle measures 3/8" wide and provides a snug fit on an average wrist. Made in America with gemstones from around the world.
The perfect finishing touch for any style emerges from a medley of textured silver and bright gemstones. Silver sits atop each gemstone like a crown, lending each piece a regal silhouette. Shades of rosy pink, spring green, buttery yellow, periwinkle and black offer a vivid and versatile palette.
Like all fine jewelry, Carolyn Pollack Sterling Silver Jewelry should be handled carefully. Store jewelry in a plastic bag, dry and wrapped in tissue paper, when not being worn or displayed. Clean sterling silver with a silver polishing cloth when necessary, but never subject to chlorine, silver dips, chemical solutions or ultrasonic cleaners, as these substances can cause the genuine gemstones to discolor. Never wear jewelry in a swimming pool.


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Our two-bottle bamboo rack comes with a cutting board, cheese knife, and a robust Bulleen Estate Merlot, as well as a balanced Taz Chardonnay.
Bulleen Estate
Garnet in color, this 2009 California Merlot boasts bright flavors of cherry with a hint of spice. On the nose, rich plums and blackberries lead to a hint of leather and oak. This well rounded and rich bodied wine starts with bright plum flavors mixed with oak and a lingering fruit finish. This wine is rich with soft tannins.
Santa Barbara Chardonnay is 100 percent barrel fermented in French oak (19% new), and undergoes a partial malolactic fermentation. I like the wine to have nice viscosity and mid-palate weight, but my main goal is to preserve the natural acidity and tropical fruit that has put Santa Barbara County Chardonnay on the map. This wine opens with aromas of lemon chiffon, pineapple and toasted coconut. The wine is creamy, but balanced with a refreshing acidity and lengthy finish.
-- Natasha Boffman, Winemaker
Measures 12"Lx8"Wx14"H
Tiered 2 bottle bamboo and ebony finish metal wine rack
750mL Bulleen Estate
750mL Taz
Wood Cutting Board
Wood Handled Cheese Knife
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HOME Dale Earnhardt Jr. Gear Dale Earnhardt Jr. Mens Dale Earnhardt Jr. Mens T-Shirts (100 items) Product ID: 1156692
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Dale Earnhardt, Jr. is driving the No. 88 Amp Energy Active Orange Chevy SS for the first time in a race during the 2013 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series in Las Vegas! Support your favorit driver and celebrate the debut of the car Dale Jr. will be driving next season when you wear this Amp Chassis tee from Chase Authentics. It features driver graphics on the front and a colorful print of Dale Jr.'s new ride on the back. There will be no doubt about your driver loyalty as long as you're sporting this spirited T-shirt!
- Lightweight ribbed T-shirt
- Officially licensed NASCAR product
- Rib-knit collar
- Screen print graphics
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Manufacturer direct items are shipped directly from the manufacturer. These items are not available for international or expedited shipping.
Customized items can be personalized with options such as your name, your favorite number, and/or designs. Some options may be limited by league rules.


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Women's Nautically Inspired Apparel: Classic styles & boutique brands
Our women's collection features nautically inspired styles made for strolling around town, afternoons on boats, dinners on the deck, and weekend getaways. Classic styles are classic for a reason and we strive to bring you the best classic style in every collection we offer.
White-Pink-Green Embroidered Floral Halter Dress
Regular Price: $139.00


text: i'm goofing off at work and want to run something up a flagpole and see if it flies lol With help of a co-worker measuring to the front of the riser i get 28 1/2 inches so i'll use 29 inch arrows. i'm going to go carbon and strictly shoot to go hunting. I want to use 110 grain muzzy broadheads. I figure at 6gr per pound with tip i should be using 400gr arrows is this correct? oh yeah the bow is 60lbs dw


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Hey Barry you helped me out with my bowstring a year ago. On my 2010 Cheetah you recommended me to a few sites to look for a custom string. I wanted to give you the update about H and M Bowstrings. They have been great! Mine is very durable and a friend of mine has used them as well with no trouble. I want to let anyone know and there seems to be a lot of people on here with string trouble.
IF YOU HAVE A 2010 CHEETAH AND HAVING STRING TROUBLE JUNK THE FACTORY STRING AND GET A CUSTOM STRING !!!!!!!!!!! http://www.hmbowstrings.com/
There is nothing wrong with a Winners Choice or any other top company, but you will pay twice the price. I got my string last year made with double helix and top quality for about $50 at H and M. The guy does it privately and there is no overhead like all the other top companies. Barry thanks for the advice last year.


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Love those fancy mesh ribbon wreaths? Check out how Jessica made this beautiful wreath (sells for $65) for only $15!
{How to Make Your Own Mesh Ribbon Wreath}
I saw a Mesh Ribbon Wreath at a craft show for $70. I absolutely loved it and had to have it for Christmas, but I couldn't take the price tag. So I thought I could make it and it would be oh so fabulous! How did I do it? Well, I am SO glad you asked!
Trusty ol' Hobby Lobby had pine wreaths for half off so I got one for only $5.00. You can pick up the mesh ribbon at your local craft store. If you use the 40% off Hobby Lobby coupon you'll get it for $11, all 10 yards of it. Also, look out for a half off sale at Hobby Lobby. You only need one roll for a wreath but I had some left over that will be use later for more fab decor. I bought my ribbon at a local craft fair just because I loved the print.
You will need:
One pine wreath
Two green pipe cleaners
10 yard roll of Mesh Ribbon of your choice
Step 1: Gather the end and tie it with a pipe cleaner. Tuck it into the pine and fasten it with a stem.
Step 2: Gather about 6 inches and be sure it's not twisted.
Step 3: Once you gather it, push it up and fasten it with a pine stem. The pine is wired so it makes it easy to keep it in place. Keep working throughout the entire wreath.
That's it! You're done! Isn't that so easy? You could also add some ribbon in a contrasting color and bulbs to match. That's the crafts I like...easy with a fabulous look. The wreath now happily hangs on my door and every time I come home it makes me smile. Go craft it!
{Related Posts}
A Homemade Christmas: DIY Fabric Star Ornament
8 Frugal Hostess Gifts for the Party Season
Here is the finished product!
Here is the video that aired this morning on News on 6, News 9 , KMOV, Kens5, WGEM and KTXD:


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5 Rutherford Rd. S., Brampton, ON, Canada, L6W 3J3
Phone: (905) 452-0600 Fax: +1(905) 452-0781
Supports Green Practices
"Supports Green Initiatives" designates a hotel's participation in an optional environmental program that includes the use of energy-efficient lighting, guestroom towel/linen re-use, and on-premise recycling. "Supports Green Initiatives" does not represent an official certification of any kind.
This Comfort Inn® hotel is located right off Hwy 410, just five minutes north of Hwy 407, and close to many local attractions including Bramalea City Centre, Shoppers World Brampton, the Rose Theatre Brampton and the Powerade Centre sports complex.
The hotel's location is close to offices of some of Canada's largest corporations and minutes from Sheridan College Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning. This pet-friendly hotel is located less than 2 km from Brampton's largest leash-free dog park.
Spacious, tastefully decorated rooms await each guest. Amenities include coffee makers, hair dryers, ironing equipment and cable television. Non-smoking and handicap accessible rooms are available and ground floor drive-up rooms are also available.
This Brampton hotel offers special services for business travellers including a lobby work station and access to copy and fax services.
The value-packed rate at this Comfort Inn includes:
Check-In Time: 15:00 Check-Out Time: 11:00 Guest Rooms: 99


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Add a brand new look to your chilly Penguins garb with the Fresh Steppin trooper cap! Featuring a team-colored woven knit exterior, an embroidered team logo on the front flap, a thick Sherpa interior and warm ear flaps, this hat is sure to keep your noggin nice, toasty and full of Pittsburgh pride!
- 50% Acrylic/50% Polyester
- Ear flaps
- Imported
- Officially licensed NHL product
- One size fits most
- Quality embroidery
- Soft sherpa lining
- Woven knit trooper cap
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Manufacturer direct items are shipped directly from the manufacturer. These items are not available for international or expedited shipping.
Customized items can be personalized with options such as your name, your favorite number, and/or designs. Some options may be limited by league rules.


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Chaplin For The Ages
Though he became a rich & famous man he never forgot where he came from, a poor cockney boy from Victorian England.
"All images from Chaplin films made from 1918 onwards, Copyright © Roy Export S.A.S.
Charles Chaplin and the Little Tramp are trademarks and/or service marks of Bubbles Inc. S.A. and/or Roy Export used with permission.


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Give it a decade-- "where you were you the first time you heard LP1?" will be a standard question for music enthusiasts everywhere. Singer-producer FKA twigs' first studio release is not just a well-executed debut; in the vein of Black Star who released one sole record (Mos Def & Talib Kweli are Black Star), this is an instant classic that leaves you craving a follow-up.
LP1 stands in stark relief to electronic contemporaries because it emits a haunting, raw energy that is also crisply edited. FKA twigs (26-year-old Brit Tahliah Barnett) pairs her own vocal and production talents with those of industry innovators like Sampha and Dev Hynes to deliver synth-heavy tones that range from dissonant ("Pendulum") to lush ("Kicks"). The first track, "Preface," opens with FKA twigs singing hymnal notes, quickly chased by a simple drum beat, followed by an unintelligible man's voice. Though the pace rarely moves beyond a nonchalant head nod, the album is not lethargic. The first single, "Two Weeks," is barely mid-tempo but achieves a hypnotic, hair-raising feel. A few tracks veer towards '90s R&B production, yet never sound dated. "Give Up" could be a dark follow-up track to Janet Jackson's "Velvet Rope." FKA twigs neatly contorts her controlled soprano to fit LP1's sonic range. She never belts, but when paired with gauzy tones and deep bass her voice takes on an ethereal quality. Those vocals are essential to the album's central theme: tension.
LP1 communicates tension primarily by placing the familiar in unfamiliar spaces, sonically and lyrically. "Closer" sounds like a hymn you might hear at Mass if not for the steady 808s and chirping synthesizer. While "Numbers" is a frustrated missive to a transient former lover, "Two Weeks" confidently declares the singer's erotic power. These contrasting elements feel like an intentional rejoinder in a music landscape that demands definition. More than just sharing FKA twigs' distinctive vision, LP1 expresses a multidimensionality inscribed with self-love, doubt, narcissism, insignificance, and invincibility: all emotions rarely discussed in public. Now, check out the album and mark the date on your calendar—it will come in handy.
I'm not a fan of the Sex and the City series or even the movies, but I have really enjoyed their soundtrack. What I have found with soundtracks is that you get a variety of music and since my taste in music is all over the place, I usually find something I like. This soundtrack stars Alicia Keys, Dido, Cee Lo Green, Ricki-Lee and Erykah Badu. Even Liza Minelli has a couple of cuts on this CD. It's the same ole Liza, except, even though it may be hard to imagine it, her voice is even raspier. Sex and the City 2 is a collection of eclectic vibes which turned me on to Natacha Atlas. She is a Middle Eastern singer who has a striking song called Kidda on Sex and the City 2. I was always singing along in my head, which is pretty difficult since I have no idea what she's saying, but it led me to look her and other Arabic music up. KPL has one of Natacha's CDs titled Mounqaliba in their collection. On Mounqaliba she has a rendition of Nick Drake's Riverman that I really enjoy. It's kind of jazzy or maybe bluesy. Well, anyway….KPL also has a CD called The rough guide to Arabic Lounge, which is a mix of Arab music that includes something from Natacha. If you like to try different kinds of music give Sex and the City 2 a shot. If nothing else maybe you'll like the men's choir that's singing in it.
There's a lot of music on the newest Ty Segall album Manipulator (17 songs). With that many songs, you shouldn't be surprised to discover that a handful are great, a few are throwaway's and the rest are well…somewhere closer to meh. Segall keeps his grungy brand of garage rock truckin' along the lines of his previous albums, mixing together pop melodies with surf-psych and Stoogesesque rock anthems. Quality control aside, Segall's albums always possess just enough hooks to get you to the next album; one that is usually only a few months away.
I find driving to be a stressful experience a lot of the time, especially when I notice the number of people sending text messages or while listening to the news. To take my mind off those stresses, I've started listening to stand-up comedy albums in the car. It's difficult to be worried when you're laughing hysterically. Here are some albums that I've enjoyed recently:
Aziz Ansari - Dangerously Delicious
Maria Bamford - Ask Me About My New God!
W. Kamau Bell - Face Full of Flour
Hannibal Buress - Animal Furnace
Cameron Esposito - Grab Them Aghast
Kumail Nanjiani - Beta Male
Wyatt Cenac - Comedy Person
I've been re-watching Twin Peaks, one of my favorite television shows, and along with watching it, I've been listening to the soundtrack. Twin Peaks is an odd, otherworldly show that gains its distinct character in part due to the atmospheric music. The songs are repeated through the series, so if you've seen an episode, you'll recognize the songs. If you've watched the whole series, you'll be intimately familiar with the music. Composer Angelo Badalamente, known for a number of classic television and movie scores, somehow managed to capture David Lynch's weird, melodramatic vision in sonic form. So grab a cup of coffee and a piece of cherry pie, and have a listen.
I have a pretty wide taste spectrum for the various jazz styles and movements that have unfolded over the past 50 years or so. One of those musicians that I enjoy listening to as summer turns to fall is the pianist Dave Brubeck. Along with Gerry Mulligan, Chico Hamilton, Chet Baker, Wes Montgomery, and Paul Desmond, Brubeck was considered one of the most popular players associated with the "cool jazz" of the West Coast scene (his visage was famously featured on the cover of Time Magazine in 1954). Brubeck w as an adventurous innovator whose style could be characterized by unconventional time signatures as well as his warm tones and lyrical flourishes.His most famous album and composition (a commercial hit of its time) is the standard Take Five, which was written along side of the great alto saxophonist Paul Desmond who was a member of the Dave Brubeck Quartet.
It's a good time to be a Bob Dylan fan. At 73, he's still on the road with his (seemingly) never ending tour… he just finished a well-received series of dates in Australia and returns to the good ol' U.S. of A. next month for another fall tour here. Aside from the live shows, we seem to get an album of new material every couple of years… his latest being Tempest from 2012, and (thankfully) a steady stream of archival material thanks to "The Bootleg Series." Dylan and his label, Sony Music, deserve (in my humble opinion) a great deal of credit for allowing these recordings to be heard, rather than keeping them buried and quite possibly lost forever. It's these otherwise "lost" recordings that allow us to gain true insight into the artist's work. And of course they make for some fun listening, too.
To that end, I just snagged a nice copy of No Direction Home: The Bootleg Series Vol 7 at the Friends Bookstore. This double disc from 2005 is a companion (sort of a soundtrack) to the Martin Scorsese film of the same name, gathering 28 mostly unreleased rarities, including one of Bob's very first recordings from 1959, plus various demos, live tracks and alternate takes – mostly from the mid-sixties. It's an interesting look back at a pivotal point in Dylan's career.
Looking ahead, November should be an interesting month. Sony is preparing to release The Basement Tapes Complete: The Bootleg Series Vol. 11 (including a 6 disc deluxe edition!), which features for the first time the legendary "Big Pink" recordings "presented as close as possible to the way they were originally recorded and sounded back in the summer of 1967." Also in November, we'll get a brand new collection of recordings by Elvis Costello and others (members of Dawes, My Morning Jacket, Mumford & Sons, et al) called Lost on the River: The New Basement Tapes. These recordings feature new original music that underscores a newly discovered batch of Dylan's handwritten lyrics from the 1967 Basement Tapes period. Oh, and it's produced by T Bone Burnette, so you know it should be mighty interesting. As always, thanks Friends and stay tuned.
Bargains in the Basement is an occasional series highlighting noteworthy items unearthed in the lower level of Central Library. What a treasure we have (quite literally) in the Friends Bookstore. When you can grab high quality books, music, and movies for little more than pocket change, life is good. And all the proceeds go to help support the library. So shop often; you never know what you'll find. And stay tuned… I'll let you know what I find!
We're past the mid-way point of 2014 and so here's my ever expanding list of favorite albums of the year. I'm sure a few more releases will make the list by year's end. What about you? What's on your list?
The War on Drugs, Lost in the DreamReal Estate, AtlasDean Wareham, Dean WarehamSt. Vincent, St. VincentNikki Lane, All or Nothin'Hamilton Leithauser, Black HoursConor Oberst, Upside Down MountainSlow Club, Complete SurrenderWildest Dreams, Wildest DreamsJenny Lewis, The VoyagerAztec Camera, High Land, High Rain (Reissue)Spoon, They Want My SoulBebel Gilberto, TudoTy Segall, Manipulator
The Texas band Spoon's newest album They Want My Soul (Available to stream through Hoopladigital.com) brings together both something old and something new to their brand of catchy, no thrills indie rock. Their foundation of taut, skeletal minimalism is still very much alive and at the core of these 10 songs. But unlike some of their previous albums (which are also great), their newest feels more amiable, better produced and with a less detached tone. This is sharp, straight forward stuff that still has the hooks to get inside your head.
Every once in a while I come across a musician or an album that makes me stop and really listen. Valerie June is just one of those musicians and her album Pushin' Against the Stone is just one of those albums. Her music is bluesy and folky, with soul and funk, and her voice is the perfect conduit to blend all those styles together. She's also a great storyteller, and I find listening to her music evokes a similar atmosphere to many of my favorite southern gothic writers (think Faulkner, Flannery O'Connor or Toni Morrison). This was love at first listen for me.
You can find a copy of Pushin' Against the Stone both in our CD collection and on our streaming music service Hoopla
Yes, summer is on the short end of its calendar life and soon the leaves will be falling and I'll want to listen to more brooding, pensive music. But for now, the sweet, melodic, and laidback sounds of Bossa Nova fit perfectly with the time spent in the hot sun and strolling along the lake's meandering surf. For those looking for a great introduction to the Brazilian music developed in the early 1960's, check out Bossa Nova and the rise of Brazilian Music in the 1960's.
This compilation contains a who's who of artists of the period, when Brazilian musicians mixed American jazz influences with South American rhythms. If you're searching for Bossa Nova artists in Hoopla or Freegal, then give these well-known artists a shot: Bebel Gilberto, Gilberto Gil, Stan Getz (made several Bossa Nova tinged albums), João Gilberto, Astrud Gilberto, Antonio Carlos Jobim, Charlie Byrd, Sergio Mendes, and Wanda Sa.
It's still summer out there so keep the warm weather tunes playing loud and proud.
The Motels: Suddenly Last Summer
I've been streaming the new Jenny Lewis album Voyager through the library's KPL music/movie/television/audiobook service Hoopla. The compact disc version isn't here yet but if you want to get a taste for this album, check it out via Hoopla. It's very easy. It's one of my favorite albums of the year with its smart and accessible brand of pop. Her band before setting out as a solo performer was Rilo Kiley, a very popular indie pop group from Los Angeles that put out several strong, catchy albums.
"We've been doing this thing longer than you've been alive, propelled by some mysterious drive," is the first couple lines of "Longer Than You've Been Alive" the first track from the Old 97's newest record Most Messed Up. Celebrating their 20th year as a band, the Old 97's have released one of the best records of 2014. Fans of Americana, punk (Tommy Stinson from The Replacements plays on a few tracks), and alt-country will be happy to discover that the boys from Texas have messed those genre up into a pure raucous ride. Songs like "Let's Get Drunk & Get It On" and "Wasted" are anthems to the hard life of a band strumming hard through two decades of music. "Guadalajara" and "The Ex of All You See" tell the torrid tales of love and loss on the road. After the final song has ended you will have felt like you have listened to a musical biography of a most messed up, but amazing band. In fact, the chorus of the lead track sums the entire record nicely, "Rock and Roll's been very very good to me, the open road's the only place I wanna be."
Singer Billy Stewart had chart success during the 1960's with hits like Fat Boy, Summertime, Sitting in the Park, Secret Love, and You Reap What You Sow and while he's not as well-known as the Motown label singers or James Brown, Stewart possessed and original style all his own that's worth checking out if you're a fan of old school rhythm and blues. His signature trademarks were improvising, scatting and rolling his tongue, all of which provided his vocal interpretations with a unique vitality. Tragically, Stewart died at 33 from an auto accident in 1970. For those new to his sound, try this excellent compilation that includes Stewart's recordings on the famous Chess Records label.
75 classic soul tracks from the vaults of Motown! That's right, 75 classics! Motown-produced music is my go-to, annual soundtrack to Michigan summers. This compilation brings forth the great music from the era's titans (Mary Wells, Marvin Gaye, The Temptations, The Miracles, The Supremes, etc.) but it also includes a few lesser known names like The Downbeats, The Valadiers, Paul Gayten, Lamont Dozier, and Barrett Strong.
Marc Bolan (aka T-Rex) was the man behind the boogie-woogie glam rock that came to define the sound of early 70's British music. Mixing campy looks with big guitar hooks, T-Rex banged out several pop anthems including 20th Century Boy, Telegram Sam, Bang a Gong, and I Love to Boogie.
This year marked the 20th anniversary of the death of Kurt Cobain and the subsequent dissolution of his band Nirvana. After being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame this year, Nirvana continue to be the band most associated with the rise of alternative music into the mainstream during the 1990's.
Oh rainy day, what should I play? If you're anything like me and you appreciate the ocassional dark skies and leisurely fall of rain, your playlist is probably a reflective collection of moody and somewhat somber tunes. On days like today, Classical, Film Scores and Jazz reign (pun intended).
How about a little music from the film Magnolia's soundtrack:
Keeping with film scores, nobody does gloomy and melodic better than Philip Glass:
Often lumped in with the French Impressionism of Maurice Ravel and Claude Debussy, Erik Satie's hauntingly simple music evokes nostalgia and memory:
In her heyday, Billie Holiday's singular style was unmatched in expressing the depth of human emotion:
Two titans of modern music, Aaron Copland and Benny Goodman:
And lastly, the beauty and simplicity of The Beatitudes as performed by The Kronos Quartet and featured in the film The Great Beauty:
Looking for artists similar to those you already know about and enjoy? Well, we'll try to make suggestions that expand your musical listening experience. Don't forget, you can access music from KPL through compact discs, free MP3 downloads (Freegal) and internet streamed albums via Hoopla. • Liked Beach House, try Wye Oak • Liked Steve Earle, try David Allan Cole • Liked Pavement, try Parquet Courts • Liked Solange, try Kelis • Liked Bruno Mars, try Fitz and the Tantrums • Liked early Pink Floyd, try Tame Impala• Liked Lorde, try Sharon Van Etten
"I can remember where I come from."
That line is from a 1992 Tori Amos song entitled "Mother," a beautiful piano ballad about leaving home, or maybe leaving what you know. It's really more of a plea than an assertion—a fear about forgetting what makes us who we are. The song, one of my personal favorites, is off her first album, Little Earthquakes, and now—22 years and 13 albums later—Tori brings that idea full circle with her latest LP, Unrepentant Geraldines. In the song "Oysters," she sings, "I'm working my way back to me again." Exploring the self or being self-aware is a common thread throughout all of her albums, but it resonates particularly strongly with Geraldines, in part because the album seems to be a return to form for her—that is, it's more piano-based, simple storytelling/songwriting than some of her recent high-concept albums. I could easily hear a song like "Weatherman" nestled between the songs on 1994's Under the Pink or "Selkie" sitting alongside the best of her early B-sides. Don't get me wrong—this isn't Tori trying to relive past glories; the songs are much fresher than if she were trying to replicate what she's already done. Unrepentant Geraldines comes from a different place than any of her early work, from a maturity that only comes with time—whether that means writing about aging ("16 Shades of Blue"), being a mother ("Rose Dover" and "Promise"), or corporate greed/religious oppression ("Unrepentant Geraldines"). Her early work will always be my favorite, but I'm happy to have an album like Geraldines that, over 20 years after I first started listening to her, speaks to me.
If you've liked any of her previous work, I'd give this album a try. In addition to the CDs we have in our collection, you can find almost every Tori Amos album, including Unrepentant Geraldines, on Hoopla. What isn't on Hoopla—Scarlet's Walk, The Beekeeper, and American Doll Posse—is available on Freegal.
Fans of the band Wilco may already be aware of Chicago's The Autumn Defense given two of its members are Wilco's bassist (John Stirratt) and keyboardist (Pat Sansone). But those who love laid back, radio-friendly songwriting that echoes the early and mid-1970's work of tunesmiths like Bread, Emitt Rhodes, Big Star, ELO, The Carpenters should check them out. Their newest album, Fifth came out this week and it's full of sweetly polished folk-pop that's perfect for a summer breeze.
If you dig the music of The Black Keys, Caitlin Rose, The Ronettes, Wanda Jackson, and She and Him, head on over to our free streaming service called Hoopla and borrow the newest album from Nikki Lane, a new singer from Nashville whose songs strike a nice balance between vintage country and girl group pop. Produced by Dan Auerbach (guitarist from The Black Keys) All or Nothin' will be here in compact disc format soon but if you can't wait, stream it from Hoopla now for free.
St. Vincent's (aka Annie Clark) newest, self-titled album is an idiosyncratic mess, a beautiful and infectious tangle of weirdness that comes at you like a curveball with a sensibility that knowingly preserves accessibility while challenging it. Cobbled together from too many genres, styles and sources to adequately summarize here, her fourth album is her most adventurous yet. She confidently pushes her sonic palate in new and colorful ways that exhibits her varied musical interests and how effectively she is at mixing and matching tones and textures. It's a contemporary sounding mulligan stew of digital beeps and bounces, spacey synthesizers, cheesy guitar riffs, funky rhythms, and gorgeous melodies. In other words, wait for the next track and you'll hear something you weren't expecting. It took me a couple of listens for this to sink in and make sense. There's no doubt that some will be turned off by the cornier stuff, but overall, it's a strong album that at times, conjures the kind of boundless vision and openness to challenge found in David Bowie's albums.
Raphael Saadiq has been around for quite a while. He came as a surprise to me because his vintage sounds. He seems extremely talented and is well packaged. He initially played with Tony! Toni! Tone! Over the years he has worked behind the scenes as a producer for some top names like, John Legend, Joss Stone, Stevie Wonder, Mary J Blige and the list goes on to some surprising other great artists.
What I really like about him is that he is very versatile. Raphael Saadiq is a singer, songwriter, guitarist and a record producer. I've read that his heroes are Chuck Berry, Stevie Wonder, Sly Stone and Little Walter. He says he wants to be a throwback with a futuristic twist. That certainly comes through on his latest CD Stone Rollin. That CD took me back to the 50s and 60s. It also had me reminiscing about Sam Cook. There are many great sounds and it is a great show of talent. It's definitely R&B at its finest and it had me rolling.
Catchy dream pop that echoes its 1980's influences while securely fixed to the contemporary is at the core of a new, brilliantly assured album from The War on Drugs. Littered with unhurried rhythms and languorous melodies that unfold like a sunny day at the beach, these are perfectly realized songs that effectively reconfigure 80's rock anthems into a collection of hazy ballads delivered with a lament filled sneer. The group's previous album, Slave Ambient, was a collection of songs that were a spacey blend of Spiritualized, Tom Petty, Bruce Springsteen and Bob Dylan. With their newly released album Lost in a Dream, the group takes this approach to an even more airy and casual place, breathing even more grooves around the swirl of reimagined 80's rock and dreamy synthesizers. This will be one of the best rock albums of the year. Check it out.
Taking your music with you these days is a given. Mp3 players (iThings) and streaming media (Hoopla, Pandora, etc.) make your music available pretty much anywhere. But the downside of all that portability and convenience is that those are all lossy formats… in other words, they sound "good enough" to make them listenable, but clearly not what you would expect in terms of quality from an old school analog or high resolution digital recording when brought to life through a decent home or car audio system. But unless you want drag your turntable along with you to the beach (not recommended) or park a computer with a decent sound card in your car's trunk, we're forced to let "good enough" be just that… good enough. That is until now.
Frustrated with an industry built on a tradeoff between maximum convenience and minimum quality, veteran music-maker Neil Young is spearheading an effort to make true, lossless high resolution audio available in a conveniently portable format. Allied with some of the leading technical minds in the sound recording industry, PonoMusic is being launched to offer high resolution digital music available in a convenient iPod-like format. But according to the Pono website, "PonoMusic is more than just a high-resolution music store and player; it is a grassroots movement to keep the heart of music beating. PonoMusic aims to preserve the feeling, spirit, and emotion that the artists put in their original studio recordings."
So, high quality audio can now accompany you anywhere you go… yes, even the beach. But is there really a difference? For the sake of comparison, most mp3 files have a bit rate of 160kbps to 256kbps, 320k if you're lucky. Mp3 of course is a "lossy" format… some of the sound is actually removed in an effort to make the files smaller and more portable… think of a photograph in a newspaper… it looks "ok" at arm's length, but up close you'll see that it's actually a bunch of dots and not really all that clear. Pono, on the other hand, is designed to play high resolution FLAC (Free Lossless Audio Codec) files - we're talkin' full resolution 192kHz/24 bit files that will "fill in" those holes with upwards of 30 times more information than a standard MP3; about four times more than a standard audio CD. The result is said to be nothing short of amazing. And you'll feed your Pono player through a familiar looking online music store not at all unlike iTunes. And yes, your existing mp3 files (and other formats) will work, too, so there's nothing to lose and plenty to gain.
So after a couple of years' worth of prototypes, development, and grass roots promotion, Pono (Hawaiian for "righteous") is preparing to launch later this year with the help of a Kickstarter project. The project hoped to raise $800,000 in capital in 35 days – a lofty goal, perhaps, but enough to put the program on the street and (hopefully) create a buzz among music lovers. Well… the Kickstarter project so far is working… uh… rather well… to say the least. Pono met its initial goal in a mere 12 hours, and as of this writing, the project I hovering just under $4 million… with 28 days still to go!
Here are some pretty remarkable celebrity endorsements of the new system. If you're a music fan like me, you'll probably be salivating after you hear these. And if you're serious about it, log on to the Pono Kickstarter site and ante up… you could land some pretty righteous swag for your efforts.
In recognition of the 50th anniversary of The Beatles conquering the U.S. market and billboard charts, here are a list of groups in our collection that may well have never existed had it not been for the transformative power of the Fab Four and their contribution to the evolution of music. These groups and individuals vary greatly but all of them share a link to the magical source that were the lads from Liverpool. Elliott Smith The Apples in Stereo Oasis The Byrds Badfinger The Autumn Defense Elton John Harry Nilsson The Smith Westerns ELOThe Shins Tame Impala Dr. Dog She and Him Matthew Sweet Jeff Lynn David Bowie
I was so very pleased to find a copy of Roy Harper's latest, Man & Myth, among the new releases in the library's Music collection. Roy has been a favorite of mine since the 1970s and his work is always full of heartfelt imagination and creative surprise.
Who is Roy Harper? I saw a review once that described him as "the consummate stoned folk poet," but that was a long time ago. More accurately, Roy is an introspective English singer songwriter, who for decades has lurked in the midst of the British music scene (sort of an Irish Neil Young in a way), swapping licks with his friends (many of whom just happen to be among the biggest names in the business), while himself seemingly happy to remain a folk hero in the shadows of relative obscurity, especially on this side of "the pond."
So about these friends… Roy has worked for years with his good friend Jimmy Page (who gave "Hats Off" to Roy on the third Led Zeppelin album), and countless others who have assisted him along the way (and vice versa); his longtime friend David Gilmour (Pink Floyd's "Have a Cigar" was sung by Roy), Pete Townshend (who plays on Man & Myth), the late Ronnie Lane and Keith Moon (both of whom appeared with Roy at a special Valentine's Day concert, gosh, 40 years ago today), and others.
Roy's music is not easy listening by any stretch of the imagination. His songs often require work; they make you think, which at times perhaps makes him another candidate for that "artists' artist" category. Still, the vast majority of Harper's work is quite approachable and indeed very beautiful. In 2013, Roy received a prestigious BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards Lifetime Achievement Award for having made "an enormous and lasting contribution to folk music over a sustained number of years."
And about the album… Man & Myth, Roy's 22nd studio album and his first in 13 years (not taking into account a dozen or so live recordings and several compilations), finds him in familiar territory, reflecting on life, love, loss and living (Roy is 72 now). "I thought I had retired...," he stated in a press interview, "...I was inspired to write again around 2009, by many of the younger generation finding me and asking, who are you?" Uncut called the songs on Man & Myth "poignant contemplations on time and its passing, friendship, love, betrayal, memory." Another reviewer wrote, "...this isn't a 'return to form'. It's business as brilliant [as] usual."
Man & Myth has been included on several "Best Of 2013" lists, including MOJO and UNCUT (and my own, of course), and the album has earned several top reviews by the European music press. Four tracks on the album were recorded (interestingly enough) in Laurel Canyon near Los Angeles (Roy seldom appears stateside), and the others were done back on home turf in County Cork, Ireland. The latter tracks are among my favorites, especially "Heaven Is Here" > "Exile," a 23 minute epic exploration based in Greek mythology.
Here's a sample from Man & Myth...
New to Roy? If you like acoustic stuff, I highly recommend that you track down a copy of Stormcock, his 1971 acoustic opus with Jimmy Page (billed as "S. Flavius Mercurius"), which is still viewed as one of his best efforts. Or if a full band is more to your liking, try The Unknown Soldier (1980)—perhaps Roy's most "commercial" effort to date, and Once (1990), both of which feature David Gilmour and Kate Bush.
Here's Roy Harper performing a cover of Bob Dylan's "Girl from the North Country" recorded by BBC4 on September 26th, 2005, at the "Talkin' Bob Dylan Blues: A Bob Dylan Tribute Concert" in London.
And if you're still with me, here's a treat… some recently discovered footage of Roy performing live in the studio about 1969 or 1970…. (there are five tracks in all). Enjoy!
The work of Estonian composer Arvo Pärt can operate on multiple levels and register differently from piece to piece. His pared down approach to composition has led critics to place his music within the minimalist tradition though such a category diminishes the range of his work and the influences of Gregorian chants and sacred music. The music can both ecstatically soar with a bang as well as level off into lyrical serenity. Both modern and timeless, the chorales are marked with spiritually affirmative overtones and yet there are also works that are haunting, solemn laments. He may well be today's most well-known composer, having produced a treasure trove of symphonies, chorales, and operas.
The very first sentence in this book… "For everyone who ever picked up the back of an album cover, spied a producer's name, and wondered what the hell he did, this book is for you." …was alone enough to capture my attention and cement its purchase. In his 2004 book, Sonic Alchemy, author and publisher David N. Howard (no relation that I know of) takes his readers on a tour of the most influential and pioneering record producers and sound recording engineers of our time.
Subtitled Visionary Music Producers and their Maverick Recordings, Howard explores the styles and techniques of such legendary producers as George Martin (The Beatles), Phil Spector (60s "Wall of Sound"), and Brian Wilson (Beach Boys), and then moves on to the many others who helped shape the sound of the world we live in.
He examines the influence of reggae and dub legends like Lee "Scratch" Perry (Bob Marley, The Clash) and King Tubby (Dennis Brown, Augustus Pablo), the ambient wizardry of Brian Eno (Talking Heads, David Bowie), the "classic rock" sound of Jimmy Miller (Rolling Stones, Traffic) and Glyn Johns (Eric Clapton, Eagles, The Who), the postpunk Manchesterian vision of Martin Hannet (Durutti Column, Joy Division), and he documents the pioneering techniques employed by Flood (Nine Inch Nails, U2), Chris Thomas (Pink Floyd, The Pretenders, Sex Pistols), Dr. Dre (Eminem, Public Enemy), Arthur Baker (New Order), and well over a dozen others.
For a sound geek like me, this was a terrific find. Thank you, Friends.
Last month Caitlin and Ryan recommended some summertime movies for those of us needing a diversion from this bleak winter weather. Weeks later our prospects haven't improved, so here's a playlist of summery pop songs to help you fight those winter doldrums.
A Summer Song - Chad & Jeremy
Ask - The Smiths
Summer in the City - The Lovin' Spoonful
King of the Beach - Wavves
Remember (Walking in the Sand) - The Shangri-Las
Summer Babe (Winter Version) - Pavement
All Summer Long - The Beach Boys
The Swimming Song - Loudon Wainwright
Down at the Sea - Beat Happening
Summer Mood - Best Coast
Bonus track: Rockaway Beach - The Ramones
More buried treasure from the Friends Bookstore! This time some sweet blues to warm the cold winter away. Buddy Guy's Icon is an 11-song collection focused on his early years with Chess (1960-67), including early versions of "Stone Crazy," "I Got My Eyes on You," "When My Left Eye Jumps," "Watch Yourself," and "My Time After Awhile." Good good stuff.
On the more current side of things, I was really excited to find two great pieces by Keb' Mo' – his eleventh and latest release, The Reflection (2011), and The Door, his fifth album, released in 2000. The Reflection has a slick and smooth funky soulful feel, with lots of help from jazz greats Dave Koz and Marcus Miller. Not my favorite Keb' release, but it's still well worth owning. The Door, on the other hand, IS one of my favorites. It has a much more acoustic and rootsy feel, with help from Greg Phillinganes, Reggie McGride, and (much to my surprise) violinist Scarlet Rivera (of Rolling Thunder fame). A fine Friends find, indeed.
Looking for artists similar to those you already know about and enjoy? Well, we'll try to make suggestions that expand your musical listening experience by connecting like-sounding artists together.• Liked Jackson Browne, try Dawes • Liked The Avett Brothers, try The Felice Brothers • Liked Neko Case, try Laura Marling • Liked Miles Davis, try Chet Baker • Liked MGMT, try The Flaming Lips • Liked The Cocteau Twins, try Beach House • Liked New Order, try The Knife • Liked Bob Marley, try Peter Tosh • Liked Billie Holiday, try Diane Krall • Liked The White Stripes, try Wanda Jackson • Liked Wilco, try Fleet Foxes • Liked Pink, try Robyn • Liked Bon Iver, try Elliott Smith • Liked Mumford and Sons, try The Head and the Heart • Liked Frank Sinatra, try Kurt Elling
The 8-disc compilation The 100 Best Jazz Tunes of the 1950's is an absolutely fantastic introduction to the music of jazz for both the well-versed aficionado as well as the eager novice seeking to expand their listening library (see: My co-worker Kevin King's previous post). This was a great decade for jazz development, ushering in various stylistic trends including Bop, Post-Bop, Cool and the first signals of what one might refer to as Free Jazz. It's a who's who of legendary musicians from Jazz's heyday, many of whom are featured playing their signature tunes. Included are Charlie Parker, Miles Davis, Sarah Vaughan, Django Reinhardt, Sonny Rollins, John Coltrane, Billie Holiday, Nina Simone, Art Blakey & the Jazz Messengers, Charles Mingus, and many more. If you just wanted to add a little bit of Jazz to your iTunes library, this is the one title to start with.
One of my personal goals for 2014 was to try and find a way into jazz music. It has always been a genre of music I've had difficulty understanding, so I wanted to discover if I could learn to appreciate it. Another reason is that my 13 year old daughter, Abigail, is a HUGE fan of Miles Davis so I wanted to share something with her on the car rides to her various extra-curricular activities. On a whim, I checked out Time Out by The Dave Brubeck Quartet which has become the first course in my jazz education. My instructor was Abigail who pointed out how the timing of each song was different. We continued to discuss the unique blend of cool and West Coast jazz that Brubeck made popular. I then had to research the story behind Time Out and discovered that the time signatures Brubeck used were very unusual and groundbreaking at the time. He was inspired by Turkish street musicians while touring Eurasia for the US State Department. I was amazed at the story behind the origins of the record as well as how my daughter was able to pick up on the innovative style of The Dave Brubeck Quartet. I am truly excited to enter 2014 looking forward to learning from a 13 year old jazz head. Maybe she will teach her old punk rock dad how to love the music that truly symbolizes the American spirit. If not I cannot find my way past Brubeck and Davis, I at least get to spend some time with my daughter. Whatever the result, I win.
If you like the sound of old school soul music, be sure to get your ears on the work of Sharon Jones and the Dap-Kings. A recent bout of cancer hasn't diminished her expressive, lived in voice and while it may impact her future touring, her newest album Give the People What They Want reflects both her personal strength and her top notch, musical chops.
Jake Bugg, teenage sensation and dedicated follower of vintage leanings, is back with his sophomore album Shangri La. His first, a full-fledged mixture of Dylanesque folk and heartfelt ballads akin to a blending of Donovan, Travis and Oasis came out of nowhere last year to critical acclaim and commercial success and so with his follow-up, Bugg revs up the tempo with some harder edged tunes. He throws in a few twists and turns with instrumentation and stylistic touches absent from the first record but the bold freshness of a year ago feels a smidgeon stale. While the record isn't much of a leap in creative development, neither does it suggest signs of regression or creative inertia. Fans of the first album will want to give it a listen.


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We've been hankering to test out one of CyberPowerPC's new Zeus Mini SFF gaming desktop models ever since we got some hands on time with it at CES, so we were happy to unpack the black and neon green Zeus Mini-I 780 that CyberPowerPC sent us this week. Small form factor (SFF) PCs are something of a trend these days, and frankly, it's refreshing to see powerful machines on the market that don't take up much space and and don't weigh 50 pounds....
CyberPowerPC Zeus Mini-I 780 SFF Gaming PC Review
That's a cool little PC with a pretty big bite!
Editor In Chiefhttp://hothardware.com
What a little beast! And in such a small package!
very awesome build!!!wish i could have one....
Such a beast computer. I have a computer but doesn't even compare to this one, it can't even hold a candle to it lol. Its sad though that you can't upgrade the storage easily on this beast. If I had this I would love to add a 1TB SSD in there eventually when it gets cheaper. Also I really like the review format
What a great giveaway!I ve been fan of both hothardware and cyberpower for a long time and this is a great gift tyvm
A beautiful little system. Blows what I have out of the water.
That is awesome! i have always liked CyberpowerPC and encourage people to go there is they want to buy a custom PC.
Very Nice Pc and the Spring Theme fits Beauty
Very cool computer I hope it knows how to keep it's temperate down. :) I wonder if this is the new trend towards the minis and away from full towers? Anyone know how upgraded able these minis are?
Yes...we go into the upgradability in quite a bit of detail: http://hothardware.com/Reviews/CyberPowerPC-Zeus-MiniI-780-SFF-Gaming-PC-Review/?page=2
This thing looks FREAKING AWESOME !!! Even if it's hard to upgrade, you could spend years without having to !
gaming on the go! im sure this little guy is all the hubub at lan parties! getting even more excited about the giveaway!
Damn I just have $500 for a gaming PC 😞
Nice build. And in SFF this is cool. GL all
He is so good looking and powerful. But wouldn't there be a lot of heat inside?
Power Of Zeus Baby! O.O
uggggghghghgh I want so bad please I have a potato clock for a computer.
I would have to say, I'm glad to see the industry trying to ma***e gaming pcs in smaller forms as well now. Before, it mostly meant you got a full tower. Now you can get a smaller sized one and from reviews the cooling isn't to bad. You can get water cooling systems in em.
Keeping a small system like this cool is a really big deal! SFF PC's and high end components don't usually mix, but they did something really cool here with the liquid cooling. Great job CP!
Nice review, enjoyed the two and a half geeks show as well. The system looks great and I like the form of the MINI, I think this is the way it should go makes it easy for placement in a work or home area.
Excellent review Seth!
This one Gorgeous SFF gaming pc ! i lov ZEUS Mini!
I really would love one of these. They pack a powerful punch for being so small. It would be a miracle if i got one.:)
Awesome, good to see a review of this sweet machine. Can't wait to see the results of the give-away for this!
HotHardware rocks!
I like it how small it is but so powerful, looking forward to see how good it is in oc and just bencmarks
Nice PC, I really like the Zeus case, its quite appealing (to me). Way better than my current set-up, I would love to get this when I get the money... might be a while.
Hopefully I don'y have to save up and I can win this bad boy in the giveaway
sweet love it want it must get it ( wish only i had $1,859) well only a boy can dream
It is sweet, but I think if I won it.. (PLEASE!!!! lol) I would pull it apart and rebuild in a proper case (probably after using it for a few weeks first! :) )
good luck today
everybody wants it but if i got it i would start gaming because my family laptop cant even handle a simple game like W.O.T. or even a small game like minecraft its soo bad so its needed, i would buy one but i dont have enough money at all!
that awesome machine would be so awesome to own id be soo happy if i got one!!
everybody wants it but if i got it i would start gaming because my family laptop cant even handle a simple game like W.O.T. or even a small game like minecraft its soo bad so its needed, i would buy one but i dont have enough money at all!
i know what you mean...Minecraft makes my PC work hard!
Oh brother! I know what you mean the Agony of lagcraft :(
This pc system is unreal >WOW. It would be a dream to own one of these. I've been listening to the geeks for a week, just catching up on old casts since i'm a new subscriber, and I have to say these guys know what they're talking about, and then some! It'll be an honor to own this system to whoever gets it.
It's awesome to see so many PC's becoming smaller while still being very powerful. It shows how technology is advancing so rapidly!
PC gaming FTW! Can't wait for The Witcher 3.
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The Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah are a ghostly reminder of what was once a huge inland sea. The end of the last Ice Age — when the first people walked the ice bridge across the Bering Strait to the Americas — would foreshadow its slow demise. As the climate warmed, the briny sea slowly dried leaving behind a salinotype of its former self, as much as seven feet deep in some places. It's been claimed that the densely-packed, supernally white landscape is so flat you can actually see the curvature of the Earth.
Speed freaks have been drawn to it for a century. Bonneville Speed Week, captured here by Simon Davidson, is annually home to the world's fastest speed trials. In recent decades, potash mining has diverted the brine that floods the ancient lake in winter and replenishes the salt bed when it dries in warmer months.
A coalition of racing and salt enthusiasts called Save the Salt have called on miners and the Bureau of Land Management which oversees Bonneville to save the salt. Last February, mine operators restarted a program to pump leftover brine onto the flats in winter.
In 1997-2002, the program successfully expanded the salt crust but as the program is voluntary it ceased, and the flats began to deteriorate again until last year. As February approaches again may those pumps be blessed by the spirit of the ancient lake.


text: We've recorded a podcast which is available for free download over at http://ambulanceshq.com/. It includes 4 new demos that may or may not be called - Show Me The Way To The Hospital, Animals, Too High & Guessing games. It also features tracks by the likes of Kevin Ayres, Robert Wyatt, Ivor Cutler, Moondog & Tom Tom Club as well as the musings of Stanley Unwin & Robert Anton Wilson amongst others.


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1976 BWW 2002 Sunroof Coupe finished in Inka Orange with Black Recaro Sport seats. It is not an easy task to describe the effort... More
The opportunities of riding the collective car market come around very few times due to the mass amount of want to be collectors/speculators in... More
1976 BMW 2002 Chassis Number: 2743908 Red/Black vinyl, cloth; largely original with one re-paint, 4-speed manual transmission, A/C, rear defroster, Blaupunkt CD stereo, dual outside mirrors,... More
1974 BMW 2002 Touring matching numbers car Built exclusively for the European Market Original and extremely well preserved interior Original sheet metal Pristine condition with one recent re-spray... More
GR Auto Gallery is pleased to offer this 1976 BMW 2002 that is in outstanding condition. BMW made a little over 861,000 2002's from... More
Given the propensity for each new version of our favorite cars to get bigger heavier more feature-laden perhaps it's time to look back for... More
BMW 2002 TURBO,1974, 5-speed, original car! /known historie for more then 30 years! very rare in this condition, very well documented car !! this car is... More


text: Rumpled up perfection. I love how ordinary moments are nothing short of extraordinary which, is why I try to savour each one and not let the moment pass me by. #dontchasetherabbit The way my shoulders burn when I dip my paddle into the water again and again is smoothed over by the breeze against my freckled skin. #dragonboating. I miss the mountains and the ocean when we are separated, a west coast girl through and through. #vancouver. The energy exchanged when your at a live show is something that has been constant in my life. #localmusic. Fighting the good fight towards equality #feminism #gender stratification. I'm inspired by beautiful things. #fashion #moodboards. I am held together by the brilliant people in my world. #family #besties. Here are my thoughts strewn on these pages as I stumble through lived experiences of life, love, loneliness and the pursuit of happiness. #prose. I love to create conversation make sure you drop me a line in my #ask box. I do not own any of the images unless stated please see all source links. The writing is mine unless otherwise stated. #disclaimer


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Allergies and special dietary needs
Food allergies
If you have special dietary requirements, let us know in advance and we will provide you with a special meal. You can request a special meal through the Manage booking section. Please submit your order no later than 24 hours before departure. Read more.
Note: Due to the processes used in our kitchens, we cannot guarantee that the meals served on our flights do not include ingredients that may cause allergies, e.g. nuts, or that the cabin does not contain the remnants of such allergens. When making your travel arrangements, we recommend that you assess the extent of any allergies to ensure that air travel is the right choice for you in regard to allergic reactions.
Sky Bistro replaces complimentary cold snack service on European flights on November 1, 2014
On short-haul flights in Economy Class, Finnair will introduce Sky Bistro, a wider mix-and-match selection of seasonal, high-quality foods and beverages combining the best tastes of Europe and Asia. There will also be products suitable for special dietary needs.
Animal allergies
Due to the effective air-conditioning on board our aircraft, the risk of being exposed to animal allergens is very small. However, if you are allergic to animals, please let us know when you book your tickets, so that we can ensure that no cat or dog reservations are subsequently made for that flight. If there is already a cat or dog reservation for your intended flight, we will let you know and help you find another flight, if required.


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INGLEWOOD, Calif. (November 28, 2010)-Daily Racing Form correspondent Steve Andersen will be Kurt Hoover's guest on The Inside Scoop on Saturday, December 4 at Hollywood Park.
Anderson and Hoover will discuss the $100,000 Native Diver Handicap and other selected races on the Hollywood Park card.
The Inside Scoop will begin at 11:30 a.m. at the Paddock Tote Board.
Copyright © 2009-2014, Hollywood Park. All rights reserved.


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- Antique Jewelry
- The Ages
- Engagement Rings
- Antique Rings
- Diamond Jewelry
- So Much More
Soaring Birds - Antique Diamond Ring
This Art Deco ring is something to tweet about with its symbolic and touching theme. An old European cut diamond of about .25 carats (I-J color; SI1 clarity) takes to the skies in an 18k white gold mount. On each side the open work setting is embellished with a pair of tiny birds in flight – soaring high above – and with petite flowers as well as the band decorated with a traditional wheat sheaf pattern.
Date: Circa 1920.
Measurements: 3/8 of an inch (1.0 cm) in length north to south on the hand and rises 1/4 of an inch (0.8 cm) in height off the finger. Weight of 2.8 grams (1.8 dwt).
Ring Size: US 8-1/4 (UK Q; Euro or Int. Circum. 57.6 mm; Int. Dia.-18.3 mm; Japan over 16) and easily can be sized to fit most. Ring sizing information.
Hallmarks: Faint worn 18k mark.
Condition: Excellent.
Note: Diamond was not removed to preserve the integrity of the setting. Weight is approximated by measurement and formula and may vary from actual weights. Grading may vary if stone is removed.
Forms of Payment
- VISA and MasterCard, Discover and American Express credit & debit cards.
- Personal checks drawn on U.S. banks only - Please allow 7 business days for clearance.
- Money orders, cashier's and traveler's checks - Please allow 7 business days for clearance.
- PayPal.
Other Forms of Payment
Bank Wire - For international orders and orders of $5,000 and over. Please contact us for more details.
Layaway information and for full details see Payment Methods.
Same Day Shipping - Order by 1 pm CST M-F!
FREE for All U.S. Orders - Standard 2 Day Shipping.
FREE for All International Orders - Standard 2-7 Day Shipping.
Full details at Shipping & Insurance.
Complete Money Back No-Risk Guarantee
Our Guarantee
If for any reason whatsoever you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, we will refund the FULL purchase price including U.S. shipping if charged. Remember, there is no charge for our regular shipping service!
International Orders - Due to customs and paperwork requirements, return shipping charges cannot be reimbursed.
Return Procedure
- Notify us of your intention to return the item within three (3) days of receipt. You may contact us by email or by telephone.
- Please ship back to us within another two (2) days after we receive notification from you.
- As soon as the item is received, a full refund is issued to you that same day.
More details at Full Guarantee including gift giving options.


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Leather Therapy Conditioner - 16 oz
Leather Therapy Restorer & Conditioner will make all of your leather look like new. Easily removes mold and mildew from old leather and shortens the break in time of new leather. This conditioner will make your leather soft, supple and strong without leaving any sticky or greasy residue behind. Read more...
Protect your investment with award winning Leather Therapy Restorer & Conditioner. It conditions from the inside-out and tests show a significant increase in leather tensile strength. Protects leather from the enemies that shorten its life -- drying sun, wind, moisture, mold & mildew. Product of the Year.
Environmentally friendly- biodegradable. Strengthens and increases the life of leather. Eradicates mold, mildew and odors. Dries to give leather a soft sheen and enriched color. Protects leather from sun, wind and moisture. Restores old, stiff, dried out leather. Non-sticky, non-greasy. 16 oz.
100% Satisfaction Guaranteed - Your Money Back Any Time, for Any Reason.
Smith Brothers is proud to offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all of our products. We stand behind the quality of our products, and should you not be satisfied with your purchase, simply return it and we will refund, replace or exchange it for you.


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Vitamin C (60 tablets, 30-day supply) | immune health vitamins & supplements
Item# HVC
Lock in Your Savings and Get
FREE SHIPPING on AutoDelivery
AutoDelivery is the most convenient, cost-effective way to ensure you never run out of the supplements you love most... because we'll automatically send you a fresh supply right before you run out!
You'll get...
- FREE SHIPPING for as long as you are enrolled in AutoDelivery. A tremendous savings of $83 a year...or more!
- TODAY'S LOW RETAIL PRICE on every shipment-we will never raise the price, guaranteed.
- PERSONALIZED SERVICE means you can call our Customer Care Team to add a product, update the quantity or change your delivery date at any time.
Wait! Don't Miss Out on the
Benefits of AutoDelivery!
- FREE SHIPPING today and forever! You'll save up to $83 per year.
- GUARANTEED PRICE PROTECTION — the low retail price you pay today will never go up!
- YOU'RE COMPLETELY IN CONTROL — we'll notify you before each shipment and you can make a change at any time!
Wait! Don't Miss Out on the Benefits of AutoDelivery!
- FREE SHIPPING today and forever! You'll save up to $83 per year.
- GUARANTEED PRICE PROTECTION — the low retail price you pay today will never go up!
- YOU'RE COMPLETELY IN CONTROL — we'll notify you before each shipment and you can make a change at any time!
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect against cell damage and supports your immune system. It also supports bone and joint health and helps reduce LDL cholesterol oxidation. Vitamin C can't be made by the body or stored.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Ingredients and Dosage
Doctor's Suggested Use: Take 1 tablet once or twice daily with a meal.
Serving Size: 1 Tablet
Servings Per Container: 60
|Amount Per Serving
|Vitamin C (as ascorbic acid)
|500 mg
|*Daily Value (DV) not established.
Other ingredients: Microcrystalline cellulose, croscarmellose sodium, stearic acid, magnesium stearate, silicon dioxide, pharmaceutical glaze
Note: Pregnant or lactating women should consult a health care professional before taking this product.
Keep out of reach of children.
GMO Free
This product contains natural ingredients; color variations may occur.
Displaying 1-3 of 3
Reviewed on
Feeling more energy after taking Vitamin C.
Reviewed on
It's hard to measure - don't take it everyday - I think it's better than average Vit C pill.
Reviewed on
Recently, I have seen where some Vitamin C is being manufactured from GMO corn so can the good doctor assure that neither his Vitamin C or any other products are sourced from the genetically-modified-organisms raw material? Although I have followed Dr. Sinatra's excellent work for some time, I have never ordered from his site so depending on the answer to this query, I may try both the C and other interesting-sounding products. In thinking this aspect has been considered, I am leaving a 5 star rating while positively anticipating there will be the same 'top notch' [NO GMO] quality. In advance, though, many thanks for a finite confirmation. A prospective customer
Science and Quality
- As an antioxidant, vitamin C is superb at fighting free radicals—one of the main contributors to endothelial dysfunction and LDL cholesterol oxidation. Supplemental vitamin C has been found to support endothelium-dependent activities.1
- A controlled trial found that vitamin C helps reduce lipid peroxide levels and oxidative stress.2
- Vitamin C supplementation supports the recycling of vitamin E. A placebo-controlled trial found that vitamin C supplementation increased blood levels of vitamin E. The reverse was also found in that vitamin E supplementation increased vitamin C levels in the blood.3
- It appears that vitamin C stimulates collagen production at the genetic expression level.4,5
1 Heitzer T, et al. Circulation 1996;94(1):6-9.
2 Singhal S, et al. J Assoc Physicians India 2001;49:327-31.
3 Hamilton IM, et al. Br J Nutr 2000;84(3):261-7.
4 Ibid.
5 Tajima S and Pinnell SR. J Dermatol Sci 1996;11(3):250-3.
Product Quality
- Manufactured to exacting standards using highest quality raw materials
- Produced under our own SOPs that meet or exceed FDA GMPs
- Every batch tested to verify purity and potency specifications are met
- Quality assured with our Triple Testing Philosophy™
- Backed by our 100% satisfaction guarantee


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Modern Garden: White Pots & Planters
I have a couple pairs of white pants that I always look forward to pulling out of the closet right around Memorial Day. Inspired by my love of white apparel for summer, here's a roundup of white pots and planters. Think of them as white pants for your plants.
Top Row:
- Cloud Planters from West Elm $29 - $49
- Nalani Planters from Crate & Barrel $14.95 - $19.95
- TROSSÖ Plant Pot from IKEA $34.99
- Bauer Biltmore Pot from Potted $150 - $250
- Layered Leaves Pot from Terrain $38
Bottom Row:
- Tuscan Planters from Pottery Barn $149 - $299
- Gideon Bowl from Flora Grubb $12.50
- Lexington Tall Self-Watering Planter from Plow and Hearth $99.95
- White Modern Pottery Planter from Vitrified Studio $60
- Vaso Rettangolare Illuminated Planter from DWR $446.25
(Images: As credited above.)
6 Comments
love this post especially in this age of "spray paint your pots neon colors"
I have been buying only white plant pots for years. It decreases the visual clutter of having a lot of plants in a small space.
I'm surprised you didn't include the Kardemumma white plant pots from IKEA - they come in three diff sizes priced at $1.99, $2.99 or $19.99. Just perfect, with a little detail but all white and very affordable.
I also love the Kardemumma white pots from IKEA - lots of different sizes and styles which mesh together well when you have a large grouping of plants. CB2 also has cool white planters for reasonable prices.
thanks for including my handmade planters in this collection! its great to see hand crafted / artist made /american made items here! shelley with vitrifiedstudio
Loving the white planters! Most of mine are white, though a lot of them are random white mugs/dishes. Like lhsimm said, it helps keep my windowsill gardens cohesive and uncluttered in a small space.
I also love planting in glassware, as it looks ... classy?


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An evening take on the floral trend, these crystal drop earrings in black diamond add a subtle touch of glamour to your cocktail dress. Craving more drama? Pair with a fiery red lip.
Clip-on earring comprised of a radial arrangement of faceted stones suspended from a smaller stone arrangement by a bejeweled chain. Finished with a comfort pad.
o 3.5" long
o Made in U.S.A.
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This Week in Photos, Jan. 4 - Jan. 10 2013
It's the first full week of 2013 and it's back to business as usual for bull riders, buddhist monks and models around the world.Filed under:
A competitor rides a bull during the Professional Bull Riders invitational at Madison Square Garden in New York.
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text: Sumiko Pearl Moving magnet phono cartridge Zoom Front Photos Videos Item #: 782PEARL Review Summary 13 people say In Stock Free Crutchfield lifetime tech support Free Shipping Your price $125.00 Add to cart + Add to wishlist Email me alerts for this product Buy this item and earn up to 125 Rewards points See more offers and ways to save Special Financing Available x By buying this product you'll earn up to 125 Rewards points. When you sign up for a Crutchfield account, you'll be enrolled in Crutchfield Rewards. You'll earn one point for every dollar you spend on gear from us. You can turn your points into Rewards Cards that you can use toward future purchases. You can sign up for an account now, or after you complete your purchase (you'll get credit for the points either way). Sign up for a Crutchfield account Overview Details Customer Reviews Q&A Our take on the Sumiko Pearl by Dave Bar Out-of-this-world sound at a down-to-earth price With its extended frequency response and groove-hugging elliptical diamond stylus, the Sumiko Pearl delivers the kind of gripping performance that'll keep your toes tapping from the very first note to the very last drum roll. Cymbal splashes come across as natural, open, and airy, while bass lines are rendered tight, deep, and tuneful. Even surface noise, one of vinyl's Achilles heels, is pushed far off into the background. You'll enjoy sparkling clarity and warmth with every disc in your treasured vinyl library. See more info on this item Highlights:moving-magnet design0.2 x 0.8mm bonded elliptical diamond stylusalloy tube cantileverfrequency response 12-30,000 Hzoutput voltage: 4 mVstereo separation: 30 dBchannel balance: 0.5 dBtracking force range: 1.5-2 gramsrecommended tracking force: 2 gramsload impedance: 47k ohmscartridge weight: 6 gramswarranty: 1 yearOur 60-day money-back guarantee Hands-on research from the Crutchfield Labs (what are the Labs?) What's in the box? | In-depth notes Product Research What's in the box? Download owner's manual Turntable cartridge (MM) Plastic stylus guard Plastic case 2 Mounting screws 2 Nuts 2 Plastic washers Small screwdriver Brush Instructions Our Product Research Team At Crutchfield, you'll get detailed, accurate information that's hard to find elsewhere. That's because we have our own in-house Product Research team — they open the box, verify contents, check the owner's manual, and record dimensions, features and specs. We stay on top of new products and technologies to help people make informed choices. Features Overview: The Sumiko Pearl is a moving magnet phono cartridge with an alloy cantilever, bonded elliptical stylus, and 4.0 mV output. The Pearl cartridge offers superior construction and sound quality with an emphasis on real world performance. Compatibility: The Sumiko Pearl turntable cartridge is an ideal replacement for any standard 1/2" mount turntable or headshell. Turntables: The Sumiko Pearl turntable cartridge supports turntables manufactured by Pro-Ject, Technics, Sony, Pioneer, Dual, Kenwood, Marantz, Denon, etc.. Cartridges: The Sumiko Pearl turntable cartridge replaces any standard 1/2" mount cartridge from Shure, Audio Technica, Ortofon, Pickering, Empire, Grado, etc.. Review this product Submit a review and then enter to win a $500 rewards card Sumiko Pearl Reviews Average Customer Review: 13 people say: Review this product: Thanks for taking the time to share your experiences about this product. Please be sure to focus your comments on the product itself. Read our Review Guidelines for more information. Review title * Email Your email won't be visible. Please use the email address that is associated with your order. Display name (e.g., JohnD) Your review will be signed using the display name and location * Your location (e.g., Charlottesville, VA) * Your rating Click on a star to rate the overall product on a scale of 1-5 1500 characters left * Your review Attach a YouTube Review Crutchfield Video Review Guidelines Only submit videos that you made or are authorized to use. Do not submit videos that contain music, video or visuals that are copyrighted and belong to someone else. Please see our Review Guidelines for more information. Submit the URL of your YouTube™ video review or product demonstration. e.g., "http://www.youtube.com/v/o79TWHh598U" 500 characters left Pros 500 characters left Cons * Agree to Terms By checking this box you agree your review becomes the property of Crutchfield, that you are over 18 years of age, that you own or have owned this product, and that you are located within the United States or its territories. Please see our Review Guidelines for more information. We reserve the right (but are not obligated to) review all submissions and edit or remove any review in any manner which we deem necessary. Your review should be posted within seven days. Filter by rating: 5 Star: (0) 4 Star: (0) 3 Star: (0) 2 Star: (0) 1 Star: (0) 4 out of 5 Good value Written By Jim, Corpus Christi, TX on Saturday, October 04, 2014 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) I wanted to replace the Sumiko Oyster cartridge that came fitted on my Pro-Ject Xpression Carbon turntable having never replaced a phono cartridge since taking up this hobby centuries ago. After reading through every article and audio forum on the subject I could find, I decided to keep it simple and stayed with the same cartridge maker, opting for the Sumiko Pearl. Big improvement. The enhancement in musical clarity and detail was noticeable and immediate from the moment the stylus touched the record groove, with the most dramatic improvement with live recordings which came alive. Soundstage was open and life like, very good with low frequencies, though I did notice a bit of harshness in the high frequency range on some recordings. With all I've learned about turntables, cartridges, and the like I'm certain there is a more ideal phono cartridge for my Pro-Ject turntable, but for the money the Sumiko Pearl floats my audio enthusiast boat just fine. Again, good value. Pros: Nice clarity & detail; open soundstage Cons: High frequencies can sometimes sound a little hard with some recordings Was this review helpful? Yes | No 4 out of 5 The Pearl Written By Ron M., Huntsville, AL on Tuesday, June 17, 2014 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) the stylus stands up for itself. not so easy to setup, still not sure if i have the correct settings. however i am still playing records and i love the upgrade. Pros: worth the upgrade, for listening to nice records. love the sound. looks good. Cons: little parts, measurements hard, not sure if I have them correct. called in not sure about the info i received, tried it did not work, so I went old school. 1 out of 2 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes | No 5 out of 5 pearl Written By audiofile, portland, or on Sunday, May 18, 2014 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) awesome sound and easy to set up. Pros: high quality, great value Cons: none 1 out of 1 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes | No 5 out of 5 Sumiko pearl Written By Roger Main, Portland, Oregon on Sunday, April 20, 2014 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) Outstanding, versatile cartridge. Clear, honest, wide soundstage with great detail. Great for jazz and complex rock like Queen or Pink Floyd. Next best cartridge would cost $300. Pros: Price, ability to replace stylus for $60, sound quality. Cons: Needs a tube preamp to really show it's prowess. (I added a Pro-Ject tube box II). 2 out of 2 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes | No 5 out of 5 Sumiko Pearl Cartridge Written By FlyMike55, Baker, FL on Tuesday, January 07, 2014 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) Everything it promised to be from Crutchfield listing. Has brought new life to our Technics SL1200 MkII turntable. Sound reproduction and spurious noise rejection is excellent. Pros: Excellent price point and cost/performance value. Comes with stylus protector and needle cleaning brush. Cons: Lacks dimensional data which is required for Technics tone arm setup. 1 out of 1 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes | No 5 out of 5 A Great Cartridge at a reasonable Price Written By LynnV, Salem, Oregon on Tuesday, September 24, 2013 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) I recently upgraded my turntable by purchasing a VPI Traveler ($1400), which does not come with a cartridge. On a modest budget, I had no desire to spend another $600 - $800, but wanted a cartridge which would bring out the sonic qualities of the turntable. I purchased the Sumiko Pearl ($125), thinking it would be a good starting cartridge which I could upgrade later when I have more funds. After setting up the cartridge, I am amazed at the sonic clarity and detail this cartridge produces. Highs are crisp and clear without being too bright, bass is detailed and ample. Vocals come through very detailed and clear without any undue sibilance. I am so pleased with the musicality of this cartridge, at its very modest modest price point, I have no need to upgrade. Truly a great product at a very reasonable price. Pros: Very reasonable price, great entry-level cartridge. set up instructions were easy to follow. Cons: Mounting screws almost not long enough to install the cartridge. 7 out of 7 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes | No 5 out of 5 Good Cartridge Written By jat3, fort worth tx on Tuesday, September 03, 2013 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) The Sumiko Pearl is a good cartridge at a good price, especially when used on the Technics SL-1200mk2. The Pearl's compliance matches well with the SL-1200mk2's tonearm mass, and, when mounted in the Audio Technica MG-10 magnesium headshell, using the forewardmost set of threads, alignment is perfect, per the Technics supplied alignment tool. This a real boon for those of us who despise the job of accurate cartridge alignment. Level the turntable, balance the arm, set VTF to 2 grams, arm height level with record surface, adjust cueing height to your preference, dial-in 2.2 grams of anti-skate, and you're home free. Pros: Good sound, and easy installation. Cons: None 3 out of 3 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes | No 4 out of 5 Sumiko Pearl phoho cartridge Written By Martin, Thief River Falls, MN on Sunday, May 05, 2013 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) The Sumiko Pearl phono cartridge does a nice job of relayuing the music from my lps to my receiver, speakers, ect. The phono cartridge was easy to install and it came with the longer bolts, washers, and nuts. Which I needed. But you have to look for them. There hidden in the bottom of the box the phono cartridge came in. Again I like the Sumiko Pearl phono cartridge. It is a nice match to my Technics SL-5200 turntable ( OLDIE BUT GOODIE ).. Pros: Sounds NICE. All parts included. Easy installation. Very HAPPY with my purchase. Cons: Had longer bolts from a previous cartridge that I used. Found the bolts that came with the phono cartridge two days later when I was going through the cartridge box before disposal...Hidden compartment in the bottom of the box.Cartridge could use some horozantial lines across its top surface to make the alaginment of the cartridge a little easer. All-N-ALL the Sumiko Pearl is a nice phono cartridge. 1 out of 2 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes | No 4 out of 5 Sumiko Pearl Written By Anonymous, mililani, hi on Thursday, April 11, 2013 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) Easy install and picks up the sound Was this review helpful? Yes | No 5 out of 5 Returning the old to new Written By John G, Forestville, Maryland on Tuesday, January 22, 2013 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) After replacing my old cartridge with the Sumiko Pearl,it was musical nirvava,I have album's that are forty-plus year's old,and the sound that came out of my speaker's was unbelieveable! Pros: Sound reproduction Cons: NONE! 2 out of 2 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes | No 5 out of 5 Great Sound Reproduction Written By CPW, Hazel Green,AL on Sunday, October 07, 2012 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) I replaced a Shure cartridge and I am very pleased with the sound reproduction of the Sumiko Pearl. I have a lot of vinyl that I have taken care of over the years and was thrilled by the Sumiko Pearl. Great product and I would recommend it to anyone. Pros: Great sound reproduction Cons: None 5 out of 5 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes | No 5 out of 5 Best Value Written By Anonymous, Columbus, OH on Saturday, August 18, 2012 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) Smooth sound across the spectrum without any frequency being overloaded. You won't be disappointed here. Pros: Good bang for the buck. Cons: None 2 out of 2 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes | No 5 out of 5 Excellent Cartridge Written By Shermanm4, Lakewood, CO on Tuesday, February 07, 2012 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) Excellent cartridge, beats my reference champ the Shure M97xe. Smooth as the shure, but more detail. Pros: Price, sound. Cons: None 7 out of 7 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes | No 1 question already asked I have a pro ject perspect turntable straight,solid carbon tone-arm,& fixed heADshell. I believe it is a1/2" standard mount.i would like to know if this cartdge. will worh on my turntable? or if here is a better match? thanx,dave c. [ David Jun 17, 2014 ] 1 answer I forwarded your question to an Advisor and they responded with the following: Thanks for contacting us. Without knowing the exact model Pro-ject turntable you have, we cannot verify 100% compatibility. However, looking at all the current models that Pro-ject, the Sumiko Pearl cartridge is compatible. If you want make 100% sure prior to ordering, you can contact Pro-ject at 510.843.4500 If you would like to discuss further you can contact an Advisor directly by phone (1-800-324-9695) or online chat. [ Krissy Staff Jun 18, 2014 ] For a more in-depth review and enhanced detailed information on the Sumiko Pearl, please visit the Crutchfield website product page (/ISEO-rccbcspd/p_782PEARL/Sumiko-Pearl.html ). Find the gear that's right for you Ask an expert Your Crutchfield Advisor knows the gear inside and out. Call 1.888.955.6000 Email Compare with other Sumiko models Sumiko Black PearlEnjoy fuller, more refined sound 5 out of 5: In StockThe Sumiko Black Pearl offers: a wider 18-27,000 Hz frequency response 28dB channel separation for better stereo imaging a smaller diameter stylus for extracting more detail from a record's grooves View All Product Information$100.00Sumiko Oysterphono cartridge 5 out of 5: In StockThe Sumiko Oyster offers: moving-magnet designchannel separation: 25 dBfrequency response: 30-20,000 HzView All Product Information$75.00Sumiko PearlFantastic sound and value 4.5 out of 5: In StockThe Sumiko Pearl offers: an extended, 12-30,000 Hz frequency response 30dB channel separation for better stereo imaging elliptical stylus design for more musical detail and improved tracking View All Product Information$125.00Sumiko Black Pearlphono cartridge 5 out of 5: In StockThe Sumiko Black Pearl offers: moving-magnet designchannel separation: 28 dBfrequency response 18-27,000 HzView All Product Information$100.00Sumiko Blue Point No.2An audiophile classic 5 out of 5: Low StockThe Sumiko Blue Point No.2 offers: a moving-coil design with exceptional resolution nude-mounted elliptical stylus for lower friction and longer wear high-output voltage for direct compatibility with most preamps, integrated amps, and receivers with phono inputs View All Product Information$399.00Sumiko Pearlphono cartridge 4.5 out of 5: In StockThe Sumiko Pearl offers: moving-magnet designchannel separation: 30 dBfrequency response 12-30,000 HzView All Product Information$125.00Sumiko Blue Point No.2phono cartridge 5 out of 5: Low StockThe Sumiko Blue Point No.2 offers: high-output moving-coil designfrequency response: 15-25,000 Hzchannel separation: 32 dBView All Product Information$399.00 Sumiko OysterCompare with $75.00 Sumiko Black PearlCompare with $100.00 You are hereSumiko PearlCompare with $125.00 Sumiko Blue Point No.2Get details $399.00 × Front Searches related to the Sumiko Pearl Moving magnet phono cartridge Sumiko Sumiko Phono Cartridges & Accessories Phono Cartridges & Accessories under $150 Sumiko Pearl reviews Sumiko Black Pearl reviews Sumiko Blue Point No.2 reviews


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A zine is most commonly
a small circulation publication of
original or appropriated texts and images.
More broadly, the term encompasses any self-published work of minority interest.
Feel free to check out my pocast with my friend Brayton. He lives in Illinois, USA, I live in the Czech Republic. We have created the world's only trans-continental wrestling podcast.
The argument that
"wrestling isn't real"
is so obtuse, so dull to the point at hand, so willfully ignorant of the concept of reality.
What's so real about any game?
What is real in any way about putting men in bizarre clothes, giving them an oblong ball, and asking them to run it across a line for 60 minutes?
Worse yet, what's real about paying them millions of dollars to do it?