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Long distance circumstance, underground, overseas! Welcome back HELIOS!

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Undercover is here.

MANILA, Philippines — Entering the Local brand scene is Undercover – A footwear brand with a premier line of Topsiders.

Traditionally worn by sailors in the mid 1800s, Topsiders, or more commonly known as "Boat shoes", are making a comeback.

Hand crafted with premium materials by master shoe makers from Marikina, their design exalts sophisticated elegance.

Mark Fernando, owner of Undercover explains the craftsmanship.

"We believe that design, color and individuality can enhance your daily outlook. Our shoes are locally handcrafted by skilled shoemakers in Marikina. We use genuine leather and rubber soles."

As a local entrepreneur, Mark explains that Undercover aims to reach a more favorable market.

"We at Undercover understand the Filipinos' need for an affordable yet high quality shoes that can compete with international brands, which is why we source it from local shoe experts in Marikina. You get great handmade shoes at a pocket-friendly price. Plus you help the local shoe industry!"

Undercover aims to diversify into other product categories like bags and button down shirts in the coming years. 

Since their launch in September, 2015, Undercover has released 5 variants available to their online market. 

Variants of the design include: (From left to right) black pullup 'Gus' , all black 'Sherlock', 'Matlock' gray, dark brown 'Zailer' and tan brown 'Heisenberg'. 

Undercover Topsider shoes ranges from P1900-P1950 or roughly around $42 each. It can be purchased online on Instagram or Facebook.

My thoughts?

This pair of Topsiders I got fitted me well. It’s comfortable just like the other pairs of branded Topsiders I have. – there’s not much difference and would fit any casual look.

Durability seems okay. It’s well crafted and will survive a harsh environment!

I believe that one of the main reasons why some Filipinos would prefer International brands than local brands is that most of us are brand conscious. – Some would rather buy fake, branded goods, not considering if it has the ability to withstand wear, pressure, or damage! – This is sad.

Why love local? First, local products are less expensive. Second, they are easy to purchase and would take less time to reach you.

Mark is right. Being able to compete with international brands locally is one thing. But being able to support local shoe makers from Marikina is another.

Overall, I give it 8/10 Stars!

This is a featured post.

Got a product you want reviewed or unboxed? Hit me with an email at franzlopez@me.com or tweet me, @keekolopez. I’m also on Instagram so if you’re there, you may follow, @franzlopez. I follow back!

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TOP-5 Best GoPro Essentials of 2014

As the year winds down, GoPro, the best action cam of 2014 gathers enough excitement with its latest line of accessories. To provide a head start, we gather this year’s Top-5 essentials for your camera.

MANILA, Philippines – We all know that accessories are as important as the camera itself. Without them, users wouldn’t be able to capture footage as immersive as they intend to. 

2014 has been a great year for GoPro. They continue to inspire us to reach new heights by revolutionizing action cameras. As we leave this year knowing that technology’s advancement multiply as time goes by, next year will definitely be another game-changer. Let’s go down to the list.

2014'S TOP 5 GOPRO ESSENTIALS

#1 LCD Touch BacPac

Most GoPros don’t go with an LCD monitor like the new GoPro Hero4 Silver. How important is it?

Well, not only does it provide an actual feed of the current perspective of your camera, it also helps you navigate through the menus and settings with a breeze. While having a wifi-connected phone provides you just the same features, it may not be as efficient as this one.

LCD Touch BacPacs go for $79.99.  #2 The 3-Way Arm

The 3-Way arm provides you with the most features. It doesn’t only work as monopod that extends, it also acts as a tripod with its removable stand. Planning to take selfies and time-lapse videos on the go? This one’s definitely for you. 3-way arms are sold for $69.99 #3 JAWS FLEX CLAMP

How would you be able to capture a moment by just simply holding your GoPro right? Well, in order to capture scenic perspectives, you’ll need mounts that will help you achieve them. The Jaws Flex Clamp is a must-have. Why?  Basically, The Jaws Flex Clamp helps you attach your GoPro to just anything with a cylindrical or a mountable surface. It provides you more suitable angles for your footage.

Other than this clamp, Suction Cup mounts help you mount them on glass windows and smooth, flat surfaces.

Jaws Flex Clamps are sold for $49.99 while Suction Cup mounts go for $39.99. #4 FILTERS

Although GoPro now develops their own, 3rd party filters provide you with cheaper options. Polar Pro has a pack that includes one Polarizer, a Neutral Density filter and a Macro Lens. Different kinds of kits are also available as well as individual ones.  POLARIZER

The Polarizer reduces glare reflected at some angles off on shiny non-metallic surfaces like water. It allows you to see into it when only surface glare would otherwise be seen. ND FILTER

Neutral Density Filters allows you to capture smooth time-lapses during day time. ND filters lower down the aperture slowing down the speed. In effect, it provides your footage with motion blur. MACRO

GoPros are made with wide angle lenses thus making your footage look distorted. In-order to counter that, Macro Filters are added. 

Although Filters are not as important, they enhance the quality thus making your footage look more captivating.

This PolarPro kit sells for $49.99 #5 The Frame

The provided GoPro housing secures your action cam. The only thing that bothers me is that it lessens the audio quality. 

Audio is as important as the video itself. Now that the Hero4 has an improved audio hardware, having a frame housing is big plus.

The Frame is a housing that allows you to shoot without an enclosed dimension that affects the audio quality. The package also includes a cover that protects your camera’s lens. ON THE BOTTOM LINE

In conclusion, GoPro accessories are now growing with third-party brands that provide different kinds of features. Though they are often cheaper, you migh want to consider their durability. 

In the coming years, GoPro and other brands will continue to revolutionize not just the camera itself, but as well as the experience. Your creativity together with these innovative accessories provide you limitless ways in capturing that moment.

For more information, you may visit GoPro’s official site at www.gopro.com.

Don’t forget to tweet or tag them, @GoPro.

Happy New Year!

Got a product you want reviewed or unboxed? Hit me with an email at franzlopez@me.comor tweet me, @keekolopez. I’m also on Instagram so if you’re there, you may follow, @franzlopez. I follow back! 

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Marshall Minority

Known for musical instruments, Marshall, a leading manufacturer, continues to develop and engineer consumer-friendly audio devices that exalt their own design principles. But, the question in everybody's mind is : do they perform well?

MANILA, Philippines – Having a Marshall Major Headphones before made me skeptic about getting a new one. Don't get me wrong, I like how it fits my ear and the sound quality is excellent. But unfortunately, not all devices are perfect.

Before the device turned a year old, adverse things started happening. The on-ear padding ruptured and fell off, the button control on the wire short circuited and eventually stopped working.

Being pessimistic about lingering issues, I began to question, it is the same with their other products? 

MARSHALL MINOR EARPHONES

I knew about Marshall’s new product line since they went on sale but never really got to try them all on. Embedded with this line of audio devices is the Marshall Minor Earphones.  I lost my Apple Earpods a day before my flight to Tacloban for the #HagupitPH coverage. With my work as a journalist, having earphones of my own is a must. I needed a new one.

Knowing that buying the same Earpods wouldn’t really change anything, I decided to purchase a different one. In search, I headed for Beyond the Box in One Rockwell since it’s the only Apple store that’s open 24/7. 

Upon walking into the store, black cardboard boxes on shelves immediately caught my attention. They had Marshall logos written all over them.

They were in-fact Marshall's Minor Earphones. An audio device that go into your ear and doubles as an answering tool when making calls . It's a smaller alternative compared to over the over-the-ear MAJOR that I was skeptic about.

I guess giving the brand a second chance wouldn't be a bad idea. So I decided to take one home.

DESIGN

Different among the other earphone brands, It has a circular black capsule that houses the main dynamic micro driver, acoustic seal and other components. They're visibly large making them pop-out.

NAVIGATION BUTTON

Like other audio devices, it has a microphone with a navigation button that also lets you operate your device. 

EARCLICKER SYSTEM

Rubber Pads called Earclicker system come with various sizes that will fit any ear size – this makes it more personal and provides added comfort.

WHAT I LIKE ABOUT IT

Overall, I love the look specially the Rubber Padding. It's definitely a big plus. 

The wiring is covered with braided fabric which makes it more durable unlike those with plastic or rubber coating that easily get punctured.

The sound quality and acoustics is great. But since it sits far from your ear canal, It offers very little noise isolation. I also noticed it having less treble than bass.

Having a microphone on the wire is also a perfect for voice calling or recording.

Overall, I've been using them for long periods of time and I'm amazed that they never made my ears sore from listening.

ON THE BOTTOM LINE

On the bottom line, for a $78 headphone, it's definitely a good buy. Although I'm still a bit skeptic about Marshall's headphone line, my experience with this in-ear Minor makes all the difference.

Marshal Minor Earphones can be purchased either online or in retail stores. Get your today at the Beyond the Box 24/7 retail store in One Rockwell.

For more information, you may visit Marshall’s official site at www.marshallheadphones.com

Don’t forget to tweet or tag them, @MarshallHP.

Got a product you want reviewed or unboxed? Hit me with an email at franzlopez@me.comor tweet me, @keekolopez. I’m also on Instagram so if you’re there, you may follow, @franzlopez. I follow back! 

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ATTENTION ARTISTS. We've been reborn complete with a new soul! See you in 2015!

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Out later. Stay tuned!

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Ray-Ban Unfolds Flashes

You’ve probably seen a Wayfarer in many Hollywood films, worn by musicians and featured in high fashion magazines. But still, half a century later, the iconic design remains to be a timeless fashion statement.

MANILA, Philippines – Ray-Ban, one of the leading eyewear manufacturers is back with a newly improved Wayfarer.

FOLDING FLASH WAYFARER

Introducing the Flash Folding Wayfarer, a pair of sunglasses with a unique capability to fold, enhanced with flash coating that's definitely a head-turner.FIRST LOOK

I first saw one when I visited Adora in Greenbelt 5. At a glance, the matte finish and the blazing blue coating immediately caught my attention.DESIGNMade with plastic, the Wayfarer design was developed in 1956 by Ray-Ban as a revolutionary break from the metal eyewear of the past. The term 'Wayfarer' basically means “A person who travels on foot”. 

The look is true to its classic origins but now fits flat on your face unlike the classic Wayfarers that were slanted.The blue matte finish made with cellulose acetate has a smooth feel that extends through its edges. Ergonomically designed, it provides optimum comfort while being worn. POLARIZATION

It’s Polarized. Perfect for the beach, it reduces glare reflected at some angles off on shiny non-metallic surfaces such as water. It allows you to see into water when only surface glare would otherwise be seen.FLASH LENS

Mirrored Lenses are often called Flash Lenses. This means that these lenses come with a reflective optical coating that make them appear like small mirrors.FOLDING MECHANISM

We all know that sunglasses are easily lost simply because they are bulky and hard to store. This design revolutionizes just that. With its unique foldable mechanism, it transforms and makes it easier to carry around. Being compact, it can fit a very small pocket. 

THE BOTTOM LINE

On the bottom line, being practical and portable makes the Folding Flash Wayfarer stand out.

With this latest update, Ray-Ban continues to deliver the unexpected and patrons around the world eagerly await what they’ll release next.

Ray-Ban Flash Wayfarers are sold for $220 and can either be bought online or through retail stores. Get yours from Adora today and receive a free Ray-Ban shirt.

For more information, you may visit Ray-Bans’s official site at www.ray-ban.com

Don’t forget to tweet or tag them, @Rayban0fficiaI.

[franzlopez]

THE VERDICT : IS HERO 4 BLACK WORTH IT?

Over years of camera evolution, GoPro, the leading manufacturer of action cameras is back with another upgrade, the Hero 4. But the real question remains, is it worth the price? Let’s find out!

MANILA, PHILIPPINES – If you’re a GoPro fanboy like me, it’s almost certain that you’ve encountered most Hero cameras to date. It’s fascinating how they redesigned the camera to be able to film in the toughest situations. Their ingenuity helps us relive each experience. 

Living or visiting the Philippines will urge you to own a GoPro. It’s a country that boasts of countless tourism destinations in its 7107 islands. Named “The selfie capital of the world” in March 2013, the Philippines is in fact a perfect hub for GoPro exclusive merchandise.  Don’t get me wrong, taking selfies isn’t bad. But rather than just taking them, I believe that you can take it to the next level by challenging your self to become more adventurous in terms of how you capture the experience. Being able to explore with your GoPro, infused with creativity, makes it more meaningful.  HERO 4 BLACK

Introducing the Hero 4 Black, the latest flagship camera that GoPro has to offer.

Previous to its release, people have been complaining about how unrealistic the Hero3+BE’s 4K capability is. It only allows you to shoot at 15fps, giving the recorded video a 'laggy' feel. 

Rumours then circulated that GoPro was working on a new design set to be released, 3rd quarter of the year. True enough, in September 2014, Hero 4 was announced raising the bar with not only 4K that shoots 30fps, but includes night lapse mode and a couple more features that got people very excited. FIRST LOOK

I first saw the Hero 4 in Singapore. As a fanboy, I wanted to get one for myself. Holding the box and seeing it in person won me over. Although it’s just the same size as the Hero 3+, the new look and features immediately caught my attention. I managed to resist temptation and decided to wait it through until it reached Manila. UNBOXED

Let’s go down to the package.  Unlike the previous version, the Hero 4 doesn’t have a GoPro remote included.

The box includes the following : Standard Housing Skeleton Backdoor Rechargeable Battery Curved Adhesive Mount Flat Adhesive Mount Quick Release Buckle 3-Way Pivot Arm  Mounting Hardware USB data cable / charger Stickers Safety Information Guide Quick Start Guide User Manual

PHYSICAL SPECS

DIMENSIONS : 41mm X 59mm X 21/30mm

WEIGHT : Camera: 88g (3.1oz) Camera with housing: 152g (5.4oz)

Top 

The Record Button is located on top with a Microphone beside it. An LED light that tells you when it's recording is also found adjacent to it.

Front

The LED display is found in front together with 2 new LED notifiers, the Camera Lens and the Power Button.

Right Side

A Pop-up Lid is found on the right side of the camera that covers the Micro SD Card Slot, and both HDMI and USB 2.0 slots.

Left Side

A Wrench Button is found at its left side replacing the former WiFi button. It still acts as the WiFi button but now supports navigation for easy access.

Bottom

Unlike previous versions, the Battery slot has now been transferred to the bottom for easy access when a BacPac is attached. Another LED notifier is found on the bottom right corner.

Back

Similar to previous versions, the Pin Slot for BacPac attachments is still found at the back.

HERO 4 BLACK’S NEW FEATURES

FPS Nirvana

Unlike the previous version, the Hero 4 Black Edition now shoots 4K in 30fps that’s fit for production standards. It also boasts of its new 2.7k 50fps and 1080 120fps feature that high speed shooters have been begging for. This allows you to shoot in Full HD while maintaining the smoothness of the footage when you slow it down. It’s a real killer.  From what I can say for now, the quality looks fantastic across all available frame-rates.

4K and beyond In the coming years, 4K will become increasingly important. With the introduction of new 4K monitors, the demand for high resolution footage begin to rise. Even Youtube now supports it. Undoubtedly by the next year or so, the Hero 4 Black will become more relevant.

Crop settings The Hero 4 also has a new crop setting limiting the options to choose from, as seen below.           4K and 4K superview      - Wide only           2.7K                                 - Wide / Narrow           1080p super view            - Wide only           1080                                - Wide / Medium / Narrow

Low light and Night Lapse The Hero 4 BE surprisingly shoots good in low light, it looks clean specially when taking images. With its impressive Night Mode, Hero 4 now empowers you to shoot time lapse at night enabling you to shoot magnificent star trails. Just be sure to disable the Lowlight option. – this automatically slows down your frame-rate down to let more light in.

New audio system GoPro claims to have included two times the dynamic range from the previous system. Unfortunately, I still haven’t gone through audio sampling yet. There will be an update in the next article.

HELPFUL REMINDERS

Before purchasing any memory cards, be sure to check the card class, only Class 10 cards are compatible. I recommend buying either Lexar, Sandisk or Transcend. Be on the lookout for fake cards. Keep in mind that if your card fails, it may damage your camera and may void the warranty. 

As soon as you open your Hero 4 Black Edition, make sure to load the battery and close the lid to check if it fits flat. Most users complain that their lid pops out of place. When this happens, don't hesitate to inform the store or email GoPro support to request for a replacement. INSERTING THE MEMORY CARD

Inserting memory cards are similar to previous versions. Easily pop the side cover and insert it. Push it further to lock it into place. Remember to keep the cover on. Most users, including me, have lost our own covers. When this happens, don’t worry. Replacement covers can be purchased either online or in retail stores.

As an added tip, you can secure the lid using an invisible magic tape. Most accessories are small and can easily get lost. Be sure to keep them in one place. A hard-cased box is also recommended to organize and ensure your camera’s safety.

THE BOTTOM LINE

On the Bottom line, considering that it shoots 4K in 30fps and has clean low light capabilities, the Hero 4 Black Edition currently being priced at $499.99 is radical. But, should you buy it?  Buy it if it’s your first GoPro or you opt to upgrade from a Hero 3 or an earlier version. I won’t recommend purchasing one if you already have a Hero 3+ BE. Basically, the only difference lies with 2 led lights in front, its new interface (when the LCD bacpac is attached) and several new features.

Also, for people upgrading, it might annoy you that the new version does not support the previous battery design. You’ll need to purchase a new set designed specially for the Hero 4.

Worse, they downsized it having only 1160 mAh, lower than the previous version which is1180 mAh. – Not a significant drop but considering how unreliable GoPro battery life is, you might need to purchase more backups.

                                                                          Images from GoPro.com If you want to consider other options, there are also different versions / kits included in the latest lineup that will suit your lifestyle. Other than the solo kit of the Hero 4 Black Edition, though they are still not available, there are 2 more kits dedicated for Surfers and Musicians.

Hero 4 Black / Surf  Priced at $499.99, The kit includes a Surfboard Mount, an FCS Plug Mount and a Camera Tether.

Hero 4 Black / Music Also priced at $499.99, this kit includes 2 Removable Instrument Mounts and a Mic Stand Mount.

A cheaper version called the Hero 4 Silver sells for $399.99. It’s basically a Hero3+BE with a built-in LCD touch display. You may opt to either choose the Surf or Music kits for the same price.

Planning to get Hero 3+ BE instead? Forget it. Since the release of the Hero 4, all Hero 3+ BE cameras have been phased out. Only the Hero 3 White priced at $199.99 remains.

And for starters, an even cheaper entry level camera, simply called the Hero, sells for $129.99 with minimal features.

Overall, the Hero 4 is the only action camera that shoots 4K with industry standard 30fps and high-speed 120fps 1080p video. Is it the best action camera to date? Definitely. It deserves 9.5/10 stars. But as GoPro improves its camera lineup, other companies like Canon and Sony are starting to develop their own. Someone will most certainly produce similar specs in the coming year and probably charge it for less. But GoPro is still GoPro. The Hero 4 Black Edition is badass and professionals as well as semi-pros are plunging over to get one.

Having a GoPro is worth it, specially if you’re creative enough to challenge yourself to go beyond the bounds of your normal activities. The Hero 4 is ground breaking. It’s almost unbelievable that a camera this small could harness such power. With their latest lineup, GoPro continues to inspire us to go beyond our boundaries. For more GoPro-related content, tune-in for my upcoming articles : 

• FACEOFF : Hero 4 BE vs Hero 3+  • 5 best essentials for your GoPro For more information, you may visit GoPro’s official site at www.gopro.com Don’t forget to tweet or tag them, @GoPro. Got a product you want reviewed or unboxed? Hit me with an email at franzlopez@me.comor tweet me, @keekolopez. I’m also on Instagram so if you’re there, you may follow, @franzlopez. I follow back!

[franzlopez]

Been on hiatus lately but there's something new to look forward to! Paving the way to a new format, I present to you the teaser for the upcoming review on Flying Dutchman dockside shoes. Soon on my blog! 

[franzlopez]

Solution : Hydration

MANILA, Philippines –  Multiple Health concerns rise due to the gradual increase of temperature in the atmosphere. Nalgene, a leading bottle manufacturer provides the perfect solution, hydration.

RISKS OF BPA CONTAMINATION

Thinking that a normal plastic bottle is safe? Well, think again.

Bisphenol A (BPA) is an industrial chemical that has been present in many hard plastic bottles and metal-based food and beverage cans since the 1960s.

Recent study shows that plastic bottles that containing BPA increases the risks of heart decease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer.

(Here’s where Nalgene comes into the picture.)

Nalgene is a brand famous for the original water bottle. Developed in 1949 by Emanuel Goldberg, it served as the first state-of-the-art polyethylene laboratory equipment. 

SAFE AND ENVIRONMENT FRIENDLY

The company continues improve and help us by simplifying life while respecting the environment. They create reusable containers that are BPA free having numerous designs that suit your personal preference. 

NALGENE EVERYDAY

Though the brand has different kinds of designs, a particular product caught my attention, the “Nalgene Everyday”. 

What makes it different, you ask? Well, having the original water bottle in my hands makes it a privilege. Supporting a brand by it’s history made it special for me.

THE BOTTLE REVIEWED

I purchased the space neon bottle that wasn’t too hard for me to spot. I realized that having a particular bottle like this would be hard for me lose, specially that it’s color made it very noticeable. The loud color also helps remind me to hydrate myself specially when it’s on my workstation.

A water bottle like this is pretty much straight forward. The wide mouth makes it easy for me to fill and clean no matter what substance I put in it. The fact that it’s dishwasher safe is also a bonus.  While testing the product, I drank quite a few different things from it. I filled it with different kinds of sodas, iced tea, energy drinks, hot coco and of course, water. Stains and odor were not an issue.

The only drawback for me was that the container’s wide mouth makes it easy for me to end up wearing what i’m drinking.  Upon my research, certain products like the human gear cap help address this issue. It gives you the option to drink from the wide mouth or the narrow one. Unfortunately I haven’t seen one on sale here in the Philippines.

THE BOTTOM LINE

On the bottom line, this Nalgene bottle lives up to all my expectations. Being high-temperature resistant makes it even more better. My Nalgene bottle has been dropped, kicked, slammed to the pavement and yet it doesn’t give any signs of giving up anytime soon. Aside from some battle scars, my bottle is in great condition. No cracks, discolorations or rotten threads on the neck. This is a product that deserves 9/10 stars! Different kinds of Nalgene bottles can be purchased at any Flight001 store and are also available at R.O.X. (Recreational Outdoor Exchange) the 32oz or 1L bottle sells for PHP690 or roughly around $16. For more information you may visit www.nalgene.com, www.flight001.com or www.rox.ph

[franzlopez]

Charger issues solved!

MANILA, Philippines – Heads up Apple users! Does your Macbook charger often heat up? Does it lie around, uncoupled and messy? Well this cool clip-on wrap is the solution.  POWERCURL CORD WRAP

PowerCurl is a clip-on wrap accessory for the whole family of Macbook power adapters (Air,Pro,Retina, et al.). It makes it easy for you to pack-up without untangling a mess the next time you set up shop.  ORIGIN

Made from rubber, it is an invention by Jeff Scholen who often leaves his charger all tangled up inside his bag. He just hated how unruly the power cord was. Always heating up, leaving a mess.  CLIP-ON

The pack comes with a clip similar to the one found on your charger that enables the plug end of your cord to clip to itself. The problem is, neither of them really hold the PowerCurl well, specially when it’s jostled in the bag.  SOLVES HEATING ISSUES

The PowerCurl also solves over-heating issues with the Macbook charger. This holder elevates it to improved air circulation around the device.  THE BOTTOM LINE

On the bottom line, it is a simple and easy way of dealing with cable clutter inside your bag. 

Although issues are solved, it adds bulk and takes up more space in your notebook case or bag, specially if you have the 85W version. Yeah, you heard that one right! It's bad news if you don’t have the luxury of space!  COLOURED RUBBER

Since it is made of coloured rubber, the material easily catches dust and dirt, especially if you choose its lightly coloured variants.

Cool Tip : Mara Mercado, a colleague of mine keeps the unit inside a ziplock to reduce and prevent dirt from invading the holder.

The other problem is that many people use the adapter that plugs directly to the outlet. If you use yours this way, you’ll have to remove it from the PowerCurl to plug for power. Add the extension cord included with your macbook to fix this issue.

OVERALL

Overall, having lots of wires and all sorts of power cables inside my bag, this accessory makes it easy for me to grab the charger. This holder also allows me to pack-up faster. 

The PowerCurl also comes in four different colours – Light blue, pink, orange and black. It also comes in three different sizes – 45W, 65W and 85W. 

All Quirky PowerCurls can be bought at any Beyond the Box store for Php 680 or roughly around $15. I got mine at the 24-hour Beyond the Box store in One Rockwell, East Tower.  For more information you may visit their site at www.Quirky.com or www.beyondthebox.ph

Got a product you want reviewed or unboxed? Hit me with an email at franzlopez@me.com��or tweet me, @keekolopez. I'm also on Instagram so if you're there, you may follow, @franzlopez. I follow back! 

[franzlopez]

ZARA MAN's  Summer Flamingo print T-Shirt featuring a cool front pocket and ZARA MAN's Basic Denim Couture Shorts from ZARA's summer collection. In stores now! For more, visit www.zara.com/ph

[franzlopez]

ZARA MAN Denim Couture Flower print T-Shirt from ZARA's summer collection. For more, visit www.zara.com/ph

[franzlopez]

Herschel into the woods!

MANILA, Philippines – It’s been a month since we last reviewed Herschel Supply’s Anchor sleeve from their recent Spring Collection and I must say, there’s a lot more to talk about! ANCHOR SLEEVE : REAL TREE

Presenting, The Anchor Sleeve : Real Tree. What more can Duck Dynasty fanatics ask for? THE CORE

Like other Anchor Sleeves, it is made with Herschel’s trademark canvass that’s fully padded and has a fleece lined interior that only exemplifies how simple yet classy their design aesthetics is. MACBOOK COMPATIBLE

The sleeve is designed to fit a Macbook Air or a Macbook Pro. The design also fits both Retina and Non-Retina MBPs.

(Be sure to check the size written on the cardboard. It would also be wise to bring your unit with you when you buy.)

DURABLE WATER REPELLENT COATING

Most don’t know, the sleeve is also made with durable water repellent coating that protects the interior against harsh elements, perfect for light drizzles during a stroll. THE BOTTOM LINE

It doesn’t only look good but knowing that my computer is secured and protected inside is a big bonus.

Honestly, not all products are perfect and one of the things that I didn’t like with this sleeve was that it didn’t have a handle or a hook that you can attach a strap on. It also doesn’t have a compartment where you can store your computer’s charger and other accessories. OVERALL

Overall, it is a design that most artists like me would prefer and recommend because of the artwork on it. Specially Duck Dynasty fanatics!

Herschel Supply Anchor Sleeve Real Tress are locally available in the Philippines at Flight 001 stores. They are sold for Php 2490 or roughly around $193.12. I got this at FLIGHT 001 at the new Shangri-la mall wing. For more information you may visit their site at www.herschelsupply.com or www.flight001.com Herschel Supply Co. was founded in 2009 and is based in Vancouver, Canada. They manufacture top-of-the-line backpacks, bags, travel goods and accessories. For more information, you may visit their site at www.herschelsupply.com

[franzlopez]

Packables save the day!

MANILA, Philippines – So you’re on a trip to the beach and you brought with you a huge backpack too heavy for a stroll. Hassle, right? Well, Herschel comes to save you yet again! PACKABLE COLLECTION

Introducing the Herschel Supply Packable collection! A great way of keeping a day pack with you when you travel. It provides you extra storage for your essentials, leaving the rest safe in your luggage.

UNIQUE AND COMPACT

Made with the unique ability to stowaway into its own pocket, the Packable Collection offers a durable, lightweight and compact storage carrying solution. Its size and fully drainable features make it perfect for travel.

NYLON RIP STOP

The Packable Backpack is a lightweight nylon rip stop daypack suitable for lighter loads.

THE BOTTOM LINE

On the Bottom Line, the Packable Backpack is a perfect travel accessory. Its lightweight rip-stop nylon folding into its own pocket is brilliant.

But, nothing is perfect. It’s not weather proof so you should be mindful of its limitations and being lightweight can also be its downfall. 

It’s also made from thin nylon material. Be sure not to put sharp objects inside that can easily puncture the fabric.

The Packable Collection is available at any Flight 001 store and sells for Php 1790 or roughly around $41. For more information, you may visit their website at www.herschelsupply.com or www.flight001.com

Herschel Supply Co. was founded in 2009 and is based in Vancouver, Canada. They manufacture top-of-the-line backpacks, bags, travel goods and accessories. For more information, you may visit their site at www.herschelsupply.com

Got a product you want reviewed or unboxed? Hit me with an email at franzlopez@me.com or tweet me, @keekolopez. I'm also on Instagram so if you're there, you may follow, @franzlopez. I follow back! 

[franzlopez]

The future : Premium on-ear wireless audio streaming

Manila, Philippines — Revolutionizing audio peripherals since 1953, Harman Kardon has been known to reinvent audio essentials. With wireless technology, the American brand is back with premium quality headphones.

THE HARMAN KARDON BT (bluetooth) HEADPHONES

Introducing the Harman Kardon BT (Bluetooth). A bluetooth enabled device that gives you the option to choose among wireless and non-wireless audio streaming.

ROBUST DESIGN

The device delivers modern robust design that features a floating headband made of silver colored metal, aesthetics that exemplifies Harman/Kardon’s design revolution.

ADDED SIZE

Aside from the regular headband size, a larger one is included in the package. You can easily swap them by unlocking the mechanism they're attached to.

MEMORY FOAM EAR PADS

The design also features two leather sealed memory foam ear pads that seal your ears tight, allowing a premium acoustic system throughout the experience. These ear pads are also magnetised and can easily detach for easy repair/replacement and or cleaning.

FOLDS FLAT

Harman Kardon also delivers a revolutionary design that doesn’t fold up but fold flat.

MICROPHONE

A microphone on the left ear cup for making phone calls and voice recordings is also included.

TOUCH REMOTE

Unlike competitors with remotes on the cable that often break down, developers repositioned the mechanism behind the left ear cup that can be easily operated by feel. 

APT-X SUPPORTED

One of its takeaway is that it's apt-X supported. A technology that improves audio quality streamed via bluetooth. Unfortunately, it only works with devices that support it.  (At the moment, most of the devices that supports apt-X are the ones manufactured by Samsung like the galaxy S3,4 & 5. It is not supported by Apple iOS devices at the moment.)

WEIGHT

Weighing at 0.6lbs, the Harman Kardon BT is much heavier than its competitors.  (On a personal note, this somehow contributes to its build quality.)

THE BOTTOM LINE

On the bottom line, it is one of the best sounding bluetooth headphones we have today. The sound quality is very impressive. It even offers 12 hours of decent battery life. 

It is also dual-purpose. You may either choose from being wired or wireless by simply attaching the cable added in the set. Being wired dramatically improves sound quality.

LEATHER CASING

The Leather case too is a beauty. It looks good and classy!

THE DOWNSIDE

Of course no device is perfect. One thing that caught my attention was that included cables (both the charger & the jack) are not standard 3.5mm, USB 2.0 or 3.0. You better keep them safe and never lose it!

OVERALL

Overall this device deserves 9/10 Stars. If you’re into a more euphoric and immersive sound experience with bass that can rock your bones, this device has it all!

Harman Kardon BTs are locally available in the Philippines in your preferred gadget store. They are sold for Php13,300 or roughly around $305. I got mine at Powermac Center in Rockwell Powerplant Mall.

Harman/Kardon is a division of Harman International Industries and manufactures top of the line home, mobile and car audio equipment. It was founded in 1953 by Americans Dr. Sidney Harman and Bernard Kardon. For more information, contact them at www.harmankardon.com or tweet them @harmankardon.

[franzlopez]

MANILA, PHILIPPINES – Celebrated once a year, famous Philippine fiestas converge in one festival, the Aliwan. Held on summer, festival representatives from different regions perform and showcase their cultural heritage on the streets.