#MSRP: $200 USD

[freshthoughts2020]

[thepeacockshallstrut]

Henry's Video Game Collection Wishlist

I like collecting trinkets and am always looking to collect additional trinkets. I thought it would be nice to write down what all I'm looking to obtain someday.

NOW DETAILED WITHIN: MOTHER 3, Octopath Traveler/II, Persona 3 Portable (the new releases), Pokémon Legends Arceus, Sam & Max Remastered

A WIP for now... ever growing, ever changing. Prices subject to an infinite increase until the eventual heat death of the universe. Let's dig in!

MOTHER 3 Deluxe Box

MSRP: 18,000 yen, or approx. $120

Market price: Enough to be somebody's rent payment

Image provided by STARMEN.NET.

I mean, what a beaut, right? Just look at her. I've longed for this extremely small Game Boy Advance with a minor difference in faceplate since I was a wee babe. (Or a sixth grader, I think.) Anyway, I remember the price on eBay being around $600 back then, and the price has gone up surprisingly not that much given inflation.

Speaking of, here's an interesting note about this item's retail price: the page on STARMEN.NET documenting this box around release put the cost of the item at "around $155." As suggested above, the value of yen in comparison to the value of the dollar has significantly depreciated in the past two decades. Also, accounting for inflation, 18k JPY in 2006 is about 20.2k JPY today... still closer to around $135 USD. Meanwhile $120 in 2006 money has the same buying power as $185 today, while $155 would be worth around $240 today. Depressing, right?

Looking around on Japanese listings, the price is about equivalent to US eBay listings... a small mercy if you ask me. I'm not sure how consoles like these ship overseas anyway, given the battery. Oh well.

Octopath Traveler - Wayfarer's Edition

MSRP: $90

Market price: $180ish with the game, $120ish without--though prices fluctuate pretty heavily

Come on, man. Comes in a little pop-up book. Ridiculous.

The box comes encased in one of those plasticky outer shells that scratch horribly, but it usually means that the box itself is in very good condition when sold secondhand. It's also not super clear in the promotional image, but the map of Orsterra is made of cloth.

Definitely lots of pointless trinkets here. Trinkets that I would just love to display. Hoo-ah!

Octopath Traveler II Steelbook (Switch ver.)

MSRP: That's a good question. I'm under the impression that you could get the Steelbook edition for an additional $10 when purchasing the game from select retailers.

Market price: $25 (game not included)

Prices for the game with the steelbook are ridiculous enough that I would advise just buying a secondhand copy of the game separately. I got my copy from a local game store for $35 and I've seen it for even cheaper online.

For those of you who prefer the Playstation versions, the PS4/PS5 steelbook appears more expensive on resale, but the games themselves are generally cheaper. Your mileage may vary.

In any case, it does pain me to forsake the Collector's Edition of this game, but the price just isn't worth it to me. $200 MSRP is already pretty steep. I would assume the included artbook does not showcase any work that isn't already present in the sold-seperately Octopath II artbook (well, actually, it sounds more like a Champions of the Continent artbook that happens to also have OT2 art in it, but that's besides the point), and the bust standees, while beautifully sculpted, are not my typical style of figure collecting... and they're not even actually metal! The box is indeed very pretty but I have to draw the line somewhere, and that line appears to stand around $300 cardboard. (The US release doesn't even get that damn tote bag...)

In any case, I love steelbooks. They're just too handsome. I've yet to find a fanmade OT1 one that I like, but maybe when that time comes it too will join my oddly-shaped collection.

Persona 3 Portable - Grimoire Edition

MSRP: $70

Market price: Something stupid, probably

I had actually intended on preordering one of these special editions back when they were announced... I just sort of forgot. Oops! Now I am subject to the whims of Limited Run aftermarket prices. Anything for such a pretty steelbook I guess.

I have mixed feelings about the full collector's edition for this game, AKA the "S.E.E.S. Edition." I think the thing I like most about it is the box it all comes in, which is generally a bad sign. I was very excited about the Evoker proplica until I realized it's only half of the gun trapped in the box forever... maybe I should just go hunt down that water gun. Regardless I'm not too torn up about passing that one up. (Well... except for the stupid briefcase box. I don't think it's a top-opener like the Scott Pilgrim CE was though. Which is just a shame!)

I guess I might also go for the "Grimoire Edition" of P4G if my pockets are feeling too heavy, but I'm not as jazzed about that game or its steelbook design. Also, I already ordered the collector's edition of Persona 3 Reload... it's too much, Atlus... it's just too much.

Pokémon Legends Arceus - Steelbook (UK Preorder Bonus)

MSRP: I think some shops charged an extra 5 quid for the steelbook

Market price: $25

PLA got some lovely preorder bonuses across the pond. Alongside this steelbook, depending on your retailer of choice, you could also get a Hisuian Pokéball replica or an Arceus statue (reminiscent of the HGSS preorder bonuses of old). Of course, you could also get the Arceus sitting cutie from the UK Pokemon Center, just like the US one... without the steelbook though? Alright. I do wonder if the UK release had the same supply chain issues for the Arceus plush as the US did. Anyway...

Lamentations about regional differences aside, I adore this steelbook! A lot of love in this artwork. The other Pokémon steelbooks, while cool, are mostly just cover legendaries but metal, or maybe gold... (and, frankly, some very ugly patterns on the inside of the box! Shameful!) It's OK though. PLA has had mercy on my soul.

I also think it would be super cool to get my hands on one of the SuMo/USUM steelbooks someday, if only for the novelty of having a steelbook for a 3DS game. Those resale prices though! Whew! Maybe someday...

Sam & Max Remastered

MSRP: $35 (standard), $75-80 (collector's), $5 (slipcover)

Market price: $50 (standard), $150 (collector's), $15 (slipcover)

These collector's editions are extremely cool historical pieces. Recreations of decades-old merch, wow! It's a shame I've never been able to get these retail price because Limited Run aftermarket is ridiculous. Still, I'd like to get my mitts on these someday.

My goal is to own all three collector's editions and display the three games in the slipcover. (Devil's Playhouse remaster coming soon! Any day now...)

Having the Hit the Road collector's edition would be cool but I'm not as set on it. If I had my way, I would start collecting the different physical releases of HtR/the original Telltale titles too! Restraint, restraint...

That's everything I can think of for now. I'll add more as it crosses my brainstream ^^

[thesilenceoftheassassin]

Check out this listing I just added to my Poshmark closet: iOCHOW S1: High Definition 8MP Document Camera & Scanner - No Install CD.

[usagirotten]

MyArcade x Atari Gamestation Plus is coming

My Arcade has announced the retail launch of the Atari Gamestation Pro, a new console bringing together more than 200 games from the Atari 2600, 5200, and 7800 including Pong, Missile Command, Asteroids, and Centipede. Featuring an “intuitive user interface” and HDMI port for connecting to modern TVs, the Atari Gamestation Pro includes two 2.4GHz wireless joysticks, inspired by the iconic originals, plus Micro SD Card slots for game save data. “We’ve meticulously blended the best of the past with today's cutting-edge technology,” said David Cox, Chief Revenue Officer at My Arcade. “This isn’t just a gaming console; it’s a journey back in time, wrapped in the convenience of the present.” Ethan Zoubek, President at Atari, added: “The response to the unveiling of the Atari Gamestation Pro has been extremely positive. Fans love the design, the games, and the unique combination of simplicity and modern features.” The Atari Gamestation Pro features plug-and-play simplicity and wireless connectivity, making diving into retro arcade games on your TV a breeze. Navigate the intuitive user interface that lets you search for games by Atari system. Dive into game overview pages that provide insights and gameplay actions for mastering each unique challenge. In-game save options allow you to save your progress. “The response to the unveiling of the Atari® Gamestation Pro has been extremely positive”, said Ethan Zoubek, President at Atari. “Fans love the design, the games, and the unique combination of simplicity and modern features.” "We've meticulously blended the best of the past with the cutting-edge technology of today," exclaims David Cox, Chief Revenue Officer at My Arcade®. "This isn't just a gaming console; it's a journey back in time, wrapped in the convenience of the present." Atari® Gamestation Pro - Key features: - First console on the market to integrate Atari 2600, 5200, 7800, and Arcade games into a single platform. - Featuring over 200 officially-licensed classics, including Pong®, Asteroids®, Breakout, Warlords, and bonus titles! - Dual 2.4 GHz Joysticks with integrated paddles with 3 sensitivity settings - Game save options: o 2 save slots via on-board memory o 2 save slots via Micro SD Card (not included) - Dynamic RGB LED lights with 3 glow modes - Console powered by USB-C - Console connects via HDMI® to TV The Atari® Gamestation Pro is available for pre-order today September 18, 2023, at select retailers for delivery by October 31, 2023 for an MSRP of $99.99 USD. Read the full article

[tailsos-official]

Hardware advice you say? dont mind if I do. First off the used market is a nebulous force of chaos and that is a place I cannot give anything more than general advice on since it lives entirely in entropy and flux, so I'll throw out this pretty good looking deal I found on newegg.

https://www.newegg.com/p/1TS-000A-13ZN2?Item=9SIAZ2GKEA4543

This is a Dell Latitude 5400, and while most people (rightfully) prefer thinkpads, this thing isnt bad at all in repairability terms and it comes with decent specs too for $130 USD before Taxes/Shipping.

The CPU on this thang is an Intel I7 8665U, which is a decent find for under 200 on newegg and amazon, most of the laptops Ive found under 200 have been anywhere from 3rd gen I3's to 7th gen I5's, which arent bad, but they arent as good as this cpu.

The real kicker is the Ran and storage.

storage wise this comes with 1 2.5" slot for a sata ssd or HDD if you so desire and an M.2 2280 slot.

Ram wise it comes with 16GB of an unknown speed on the listing but I would guess probably DDR4 2400, and it supports up to 32GB of DDR4 2666 memory, which you can easily upgrade to thanks to the 2 SODIMM Slots, which is the best part of the laptop IMO. Sodimm slots on semi modern cpus are not a guarantee, espicially in the netbook price range.

The only thing this listing warns of is a white spot on the screen and a few scratches on the body, but if you can live with that, thats what I would go with, and if you cant, at least stay away from new chromebooks. The pricing is kind of bad just due to the existence of a used/refurb market, and they always seem to have some soet of caveat, so I just stick to the used market.

And I promise Im not ignoring what you said about batteries, im just trying to figure out what you mean by simple powercells. Im still unsure what you mean by that after 30 minutes of writing this, but battery replacements arent particularly bad on a lot of modern laptops (Even if they arent as easy as the glory days of, but if by power cells you meant batteries, then I have heard tales of an upcoming energizer laptop that supposedly runs on batteries and is shooting for a 200 dollar MSRP, but I dont think that its been released yet.

Umm, now that force linuxing is in the air, you could suggest a netbook, that I could install you (Debian) on, and guess who would? You would be near literally forcing my hand with that decision! You know. (I really want to be easily replace its batteries, like simple powercells if possible, pls.)

I'm the last person you should be asking for hardware advice tbh. The only two suggestions I could come up with are along the lines of thinkpad and framework. My own current laptop is an ideapad whose build quality has been amazingly disappointing & I haven't looked into hardware at all since buying it a few years ago.

[joshvito]

Review: Upgrading a MC Phono Stage

A review of The Black Cube from Lehmann Audio in comparison to the Parasound zPhono.

This article will not go into details on why one needs a phono stage in their HIFI system. It will assume the reader knows the basics of vinyl playback on modern HIFI stereo systems.

Notes on the gear involved

Both phone preamps were tested in the same system, which includes the following in the signal chain.

VPI Classic w/Ortofon Quintet Blue

Parasound zPhono OR The Black Cube

Marantz PM6005 Integrated

Sonus Faber Venere 2.5

Audioquest Forest Interconects

Why upgrade?

My audio journey did not start with the Parasound zPhono. Actually, it was the second dedicated phono pre-amp that I have owned, and the fifth pre-amp in my collection of audio gear (if you count the phono stages in the various receivers I own). The zPhono was actually an upgrade that was recommended to me by my local HIFI shop to replace a Bellari VP130 (w/Tungsol 12AX7 Goldpin tube).

I enjoyed the sound of the Bellari, it had a nice warm sound and had a built in headphone amp.Alas, it didn't have enough gain for my newly upgraded Moving Coil (MC) cartridge (Ortofon Quintet Blue). Therefore, the HIFI shop suggested if I wanted to get into the entry level of running MC cart's, the Parasound zPhono was a great little pre-amp for the price ($200 USD).

The Parasound served me well for a year or so, until I upgraded my room treatments and speakers. The Sonus Faber floorstanders I am currently running in my system revealed a lot of extra noise in the system compared to the previous B&W 685 S2's (stand mounted bookshelf).

This noise is what lead me to investigate the noise source and eventually upgrade my phono preamp. The noise is definitively from the Parasound zPhono (in MC mode). Switched over into MM mode, the zPhone becomes a lot more quieter. I still believe Parasound makes a great little pre-amp for the price, especially if you have a moving magnet (MM) cartridge.

Why the Lehmann Black Cube

I eventually settled on The Black Cube because of the praise it received from other hobbyists (and my local HIFI shop) and the fact that it has many settings to allow it to work with almost any cartridge. I also compared the manufacturers specs, and The Black Cube lists a lower signal to noise ratio (S/N) than the Parasound.

Parasound zPhono source - S/N MC 58dB - Gain at 1 kHz: MC, 61 dB

The Black Cube source - S/N (RMS unweighted) 63dB - Gain 1 kHz: MC: 66 dB

At first glance, I was dubious of the small difference (5dB) in listing of S/N ratio. However, the gain on the Lehmann product is 5dB higher too, and the Parasound is most likely weighted (which makes the number heigher). Now that we have manufacturer specs and the why out of the way. Let's get to overall impressions.

General Impressions on sound

I will be the first to admit, I am not a professional listener. However, the extra cost for the Lehmann Black Cube was worth every penny to my listening room experience. The Black Cube has a quieter noise floor at listening levels of ~80dB. To my ears, instruments sound closer to the real thing also. Specifically, the pluck of guitars and the high hat symbols sound much more like live performances. I don't hear a noticable difference at the bass end of the spectrum.

My Testing Procedure

Testing Equipment

I use a UMIK-1 with the supplied calibration file. I plugged the mic. directly into a laptop running Room Eq Wizard (REW).

All measurements are taken at the listening position in the room, with all external sources of noise removed (e.g. fans, A/C, etc). This was one of the more challenging tasks, it is surprising how often my neighbor mows his yard.

Output Equalization

Since each of the pre-amps have different gain levels, I wanted to make sure I was measuring each with the same listenting level. So before I took any noise measurements of the pre-amps, I played the same song on each and adjusted the volume on the amp to get the speaker output to average ~80dB's. Then I took measurements of the noise in the room.

My S/N Measurements

Legend 20180701-LP-TBC-A: The Black Cube (Avg) 20180701-LP-PzP-A: Parasound zPhono (Avg)

Not much to say here, expect that the measurements back up what I was hearing in the room. At the same listening levels, using them in MC mode, The Black Cube has a lower noise floor than the Parasound zPhono. This isn't too surprising, as the S/N ratio specs from manufacturer also back up this finding. However, it was a fun experiment to listen to the differences in the gear, and to back up what I was saying with measurements.

Conclusion

While both pre-amps are very good at producing acurate representations of the music, The Black Cube wins in all categories of sonic performance. However, It should be noted that the cost of ownership has not been mentioned in my review above. At an MSRP of $200 (USD), the Parasound zPhono holds its own at that pricepoint. However, I think pairing it with an MC cartridge is a bit of a mismatch due to it's higher noisefloor at that gain level. The Black Cube (MSRP $630.00 USD) in MC mode is a much quieter device, and it also produces a cleaner mid range and high end of the sound spectrum.

[freshthoughts2020]

[rekomande]

Recomended Products

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1. In its class, as compared to other portable consumer document scanners with an ADF, using the AC adapter and power cable, priced under $300 USD (MSRP) sold into the United States and Canada as of June 2016. Excludes other Epson products.  2. Based on letter-sized scans at 300 dpi using the AC adapter. 3. With Epson ScanSmart Software installed on the connected Windows PC or Mac. Internet connection required. Supports Windows 10 (32-bit, 64-bit), Windows 8/8.1 (32-bit, 64-bit), Windows 7 (32-bit, 64-bit) SP1 and Mac OS X 10.11.x to macOS 10.13.x. 4. USB power requires USB 3.0 connection port on your computer. 5. For convenient and reasonable recycling options, visit our official site. 6. SmartWay is an innovative partnership of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency that reduces greenhouse gases and other air pollutants and improves fuel efficiency.

Fastest scan speeds in its class (1) – up to 25 ppm/50 ipm (2); Single-Step Technology captures both sides in one pass. Fastest scan speeds in its class (1) – up to 25 ppm/50 ipm (2); Single-Step Technology captures both sides in one pass. Versatile scanning – scan 2-sided documents, receipts, business cards, plastic IDs and more. Fastest scan speeds in its class (1) – up to 25 ppm/50 ipm (2); Single-Step Technology captures both sides in one pass. Fastest scan speeds in its class (1) – up to 25 ppm/50 ipm (2); Single-Step Technology captures both sides in one pass. Versatile scanning – scan 2-sided documents, receipts, business cards, plastic IDs and more. Convenient portability – use AC power, or if there’s no outlet, USB power (4) from your computer. Fastest scan speeds in its class (1) – up to 25 ppm/50 ipm (2); Single-Step Technology captures both sides in one pass. Fastest scan speeds in its class (1) – up to 25 ppm/50 ipm (2); Single-Step Technology captures both sides in one pass. Versatile scanning – scan 2-sided documents, receipts, business cards, plastic IDs and more. Fastest scan speeds in its class (1) – up to 25 ppm/50 ipm (2); Single-Step Technology captures both sides in one pass. Fastest scan speeds in its class (1) – up to 25 ppm/50 ipm (2); Single-Step Technology captures both sides in one pass. Versatile scanning – scan 2-sided documents, receipts, business cards, plastic IDs and more. Convenient portability – use AC power, or if there’s no outlet, USB power (4) from your computer. Quick batch scanning for stacks of paper – 20-page Auto Document Feeder. Fastest scan speeds in its class (1) – up to 25 ppm/50 ipm (2); Single-Step Technology captures both sides in one pass. Fastest scan speeds in its class (1) – up to 25 ppm/50 ipm (2); Single-Step Technology captures both sides in one pass. Versatile scanning – scan 2-sided documents, receipts, business cards, plastic IDs and more. Fastest scan speeds in its class (1) – up to 25 ppm/50 ipm (2); Single-Step Technology captures both sides in one pass. Fastest scan speeds in its class (1) – up to 25 ppm/50 ipm (2); Single-Step Technology captures both sides in one pass. Versatile scanning – scan 2-sided documents, receipts, business cards, plastic IDs and more. Convenient portability – use AC power, or if there’s no outlet, USB power (4) from your computer. Fastest scan speeds in its class (1) – up to 25 ppm/50 ipm (2); Single-Step Technology captures both sides in one pass. Fastest scan speeds in its class (1) – up to 25 ppm/50 ipm (2); Single-Step Technology captures both sides in one pass. Versatile scanning – scan 2-sided documents, receipts, business cards, plastic IDs and more. Fastest scan speeds in its class (1) – up to 25 ppm/50 ipm (2); Single-Step Technology captures both sides in one pass. Fastest scan speeds in its class (1) – up to 25 ppm/50 ipm (2); Single-Step Technology captures both sides in one pass. Versatile scanning – scan 2-sided documents, receipts, business cards, plastic IDs and more. Convenient portability – use AC power, or if there’s no outlet, USB power (4) from your computer. Quick batch scanning for stacks of paper – 20-page Auto Document Feeder. Powerful software included – easy scanning with intuitive Epson ScanSmart Software (3); preview, email, upload and more; automatic file naming and object recognition save time.

[tatyova]

In the video announcing both products, Blake Rasmussen said that it will “cost a little more than a Commander Anthology, and those had an MSRP of $165.” It is currently unknown how much the intended price of these will be, it could be anywhere from $165-200 USD. 

YOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO

[moddersinc]

Antec Announces the release of its newest Mid-Tower Gaming Chassis

Antec, A world leader in cutting edge Gaming Chassis design Announces the release of the Dark Avenger 601 Authentic Mid-Tower Gaming Chassis!  The DA601, with its futuristic good looks and "robust cooling system", has all the features you expect in a great gaming chassis.  The two pre-installed 120mm fans will give any DIY builder a great start.  If you like a flashy case, the front panel has it.  Imagine looking at these fully customizable ARGB light strips in a dark room.  This monster is hungry and with the right build could eat up all the competition!  The Antec DA601 is spacious inside as well.  A tempered glass side panel lets all your work show.  With Antec's 2-year warranty and a competitive price, the DA601 just might be what you're looking for.  Check out the full press release and all the specs below and on Antec's website.   Colorful & Futuristic: Antec Announces New Gaming Chassis DA601 Antec Inc., a leading provider of high-performance computer components and accessories for the gaming, PC upgrade, and Do-It-Yourself market, announces the Dark Avenger 601: a case engineered for performance and built for the Ultimate Gaming PC. The Dark Avenger delivers a combination of cooling, performance, and convenience. Its aesthetics will appeal to gamers and enthusiasts who prefer a futuristic yet functional appearance. The DA601 features X-ARGB-Strips on the front panel while the mesh design allows the light of the included 120mm Prizm ARGB fan to shine through. The DA601 is now available on store shelves and online retail outlets in the US with a competitive MSRP of $84.99 USD. Made for infinite gaming battles The Dark Avenger 601 features an exceptionally robust cooling system to be prepared for the most demanding Gaming battles. The mid-tower comes with one pre-installed 120 mm Prizm ARGB fan and one regular 120mm fan in the rear. The chassis offers space for additional two 120 mm fans in the front and three 120 mm or two 140 mm fans on the top. The frame measures 480 x 220 x 500 mm (D x W x H) and supports E-ATX (up to 12" x 11"), ATX and Micro-ATX motherboards as well as graphics cards with a maximum length of 400 mm and power supplies with a maximum length of 200 mm. Furthermore, the DA601 offers space for two convertible 2.5” / 3.5" HDDs and four 2.5" SDDs as well as seven expansion slots. The thought-out case allows for installing a 360 mm radiator in the front, one 280 / 360 mm radiator on the top and a 120 mm radiator in the rear. The magnetic dust filters at the top and bottom can be removed for extra airflow and easy maintenance. “The DA601 builds on Antec’s popular Gaming case design with loads of cooling and capacity,” says Jack Wu, General Manager Europe at Antec. “With one press, users can have simple access to all the LEDs of the whole build, while the high-tech front panel design makes the build shine as a superhero.” Shine like a Superhero The detachable front panel allows for easy dust clearance and the built-in ARGB control module invites to play with the colors. Thanks to the full LED access, users can control the lights with one single button or through motherboard synchronization. The side panel made of tempered glass shows off the components perfectly. The front bezel features two USB 3.0 slots, Power & Reset button, MIC / AUDIO, and the ARGB control button. The DA601 is backed by Antec’s Quality 2-Year Warranty. For additional product information and full technical specifications, please visit www.antec.com and follow us on our Social Media Channels. Read the full article

[bunkershotgolf]

TAYLORMADE GOLF COMPANY DELIVERS MILESTONE PERFORMANCE IMPROVEMENTS IN NEW 2019 TP5 & TP5X GOLF BALLS Industry-Leading 5-Layer Construction Has Been Reengineered with an Innovative New Speed-Layer System to Deliver Noticeably More Speed in the Most Complete Tour Ball

TaylorMade Golf Company today announced the release of its significantly enhanced 2019 TP5 and TP5x golf ball models. Highlighted by its new High-Flex Material (HFM) TaylorMade has taken the 2019 TP5 & TP5x to a new level of performance.  

With the new TP5 and TP5x golf balls, we knew there was an opportunity to make them even faster. Our research into the driver and ball interaction at the moment of impact along with the development of a new material (HFM) has given us the ability to more efficiently convert compression into speed, at any swing speed. The new Speed-Layer System (SLS) controls spin rates that is critical for driver, iron and wedge performance.

Eric Loper, Director of Golf Ball R&D The key to achieving enhanced speed without impacting other areas of performance comes down to the ability to weave the new High-Flex Material (HFM) within TaylorMade’s proprietary 5-layer ball construction. In traditional golf balls with 3 or 4 layers, manufacturers are unable to utilize a soft core AND maintain high ball velocities.

With the 2019 TP5 and TP5x, speed and spin are effectively decoupled—which enables an incredibly soft core to be “wrapped” by increasingly stiff materials, creating a Speed-Layer System with each outer layer getting progressively faster.

Based on initial player testing with the 2019 TP5 and TP5x, the top athletes in the world are experiencing speeds they’ve never seen before. During a recent testing session, Jon Rahm (who averages 177-179 MPH ball speed with driver) was seeing numbers upward of 186 MPH with an average of around 182.5 MPH. Additional TaylorMade staff professionals also experienced noticeable gains in ballspeed at a recent testing session across high, mid and lower swing speeds.

New Speed-Layer System with HFM

The new Speed-Layer System is comprised of four increasingly stiff layers, featuring a new material called HFM. HFM is the fastest material TaylorMade has ever used and is essentially a tightly wound spring and when compressed generates more rebound energy for more ball speed. The tightly wound spring characteristic of HFM also increases the force on the driver face, further increasing the speed of the golf ball when it leaves the driver face.  

Tri-Fast Core

The Tri-Fast Core consists of an extra-large, low-compression inner core (16 compression in TP5 & 25 compression in TP5x) and a progressively stiffer outer core and mantle. The combination of these three layers work in conjunction to create lower drag and increased carry—the primary reason TP5 and TP5x have become the hottest Tour balls in golf. The Tri-Fast Core delivers breakthrough iron performance by achieving maximum carry, giving golfers of nearly every swing speed (over 60 MPH) choosing less clubs into the green.

Dual-Spin Cover

The Dual-Spin Cover boasts an ultra-soft cast urethane cover and a 30% more rigid inner cover. This system creates a condition that is ideal for greenside control, as the rigid inner cover forces the soft urethane cover into wedge grooves for maximum spin generation.  

Additional enhancements in the 2019 TP5 and TP5x models includes a new Soft-Tough cast urethane cover. In order to achieve improved scuff resistance, shear resistance, and overall durability, the new cover features a cast urethane compound and new paint formulation to help each ball feel better and last longer.

With the improved cover durability, new HFM material, and TaylorMade’s proprietary 5-layer design, TP5 and TP5x are able to produce optimal flight, velocity, and control regardless of which model golfers prefer to play.

How to Choose Between the ’19 TP5 & TP5x

The 2019 TP5 and TP5x offer complete tee-to-green performance thanks to TaylorMade’s patented 5-layer construction. While both deliver significant distance off the tee, the TP5 has a softer feel (85 compression), launches lower on iron shots and has more spin around the greens (+300 compared to TP5x at 100 yards & +200 at 30 yards) while the TP5x has a firmer feel (97 compression) and will generate higher launching iron shots. TaylorMade staffers anticipated to play the TP5 are Rory McIlroy & Beau Hossler, while Dustin Johnson, Jon Rahm and Jason Day will expectedly gravitate toward the TP5x model.

Pricing & Availability

The 2019 TP5 and TP5x will be available at retail on 2/15/2019 at an MSRP of $44.99 USD per dozen. To learn more about TP5 and TP5x golf balls, visit  TaylorMadeGolf.com.

Fitting the ’19 TP5 & TP5x

To properly fit golfers around the world, TaylorMade has brought on 55 dedicated golf ball fitters who will perform over 100,000 fittings in 2019. To book a golf ball fitting and experience the 2019 TP5 and TP5x, visit myFittingEXP.com.

[savetopnow]

2018-03-12 00 APPLE now

APPLE

9 to 5 Mac

Review: LXORY’s Dual Wireless Charger is an affordable and versatile option with USB-C and Lightning input

This week’s top stories: A notch-free iPhone, Apple Watch healthcare perks, new iPad Pros at WWDC, more

Apple patent imagines a MacBook keyboard that’s more resistant to crumbs & other debris

Apple updates its Made-for-iPhone (MFi) branding for accessory makers

Making The Grade: Apple needs an Identity Management Solution to take over schools

Apple Insider

Initial pre-orders for Samsung Galaxy S9 reportedly down compared to Galaxy S8 sales

'Made For i' branding may be shifting focus from iPod to iPhone and iPad

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Select 12″ 1.3GHz Retina MacBooks on sale for $1399, $200 off MSRP

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Cut/copy/paste bubbles should appear after we use 3D Touch to select text with the keyboard

Needed an screenshot sharing thingy for mac so I made one

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Questions from a Mac newbie: docks, software and friends.

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Momentum Torpedo Blast 44 Watch - $69.98 USD

Momentum Torpedo Blast 44 Watch - $69.98 USD #watches #watch #menswear #gear #gadgets #outdoors #hiking

The Momentum Torpedo Blast 44 is is one of the best value propositions in the outdoor adventure watch genre at the moment. It has an MSRP of just $69.98 USD, a tough stainless steel case, water resistance to 200 meters, a 3 to 5 year battery life, a rotating diving bezel, and a heat-tempered, anti-glare mineral crystal.

Momentum Watches is a Canadian company that assembles all of their watches by…

[aportesur]

El videojuego chileno de pelea de criaturas sobrenaturales llegará el 6 de noviembre digitalmente en exclusiva para PlayStation 4. ¡Ya puedes reservarlo!

AOne Games está feliz de anunciar que el oscuro juego de peleas “Omen of Sorrow” ya se encuentra disponible como pre-order digital, de forma exclusiva en la PlayStation® Store por $49.99 USD MSRP!

Como bonificación especial, todas las preventas digitales recibirán un descuento especial del 10%, mientras que usuarios con membresía PlayStation Plus recibirán un total de 15% de descuento del precio original! ($44.99 USD y $42.49 USD respectivamente). Para celebrar este hito, todos los que realicen su pre-order antes del 5 de Noviembre, recibirán también un exclusivo Tema de PlayStation 4.

Omen of Sorrow es un juego de peleas de 4 botones inspirado en el horror clásico, la fantasía e icónicos mitos y leyendas. Los jugadores se encontrarán peleando en diversos, peligrosos y tenebrosos escenarios, desde un bosque en llamas a un siniestro castillo. Omen of Sorrow también cuenta con legendarios personajes, como Adam, el mítico monstruo del Dr. Frankenstein; el hombre lobo maldito Caleb, o el desquiciado Dr. Hyde. Todos los personajes están conectados por una intrincada historia, llena de conflictos internos, despecho y maldad.

Características de Omen of Sorrow

Lucha usando icónicos personajes y genera estrategias de pelea usando movimientos y habilidades específicas de cada personaje!

Juega con el peligro en sombríos escenarios, inspirados por antiguas leyendas europeas!

Forma parte de una atrapante historia de oscuridad y desesperación en un exclusivo Modo Historia!

Perdura en intensas batallas en los modos Arcade y Survival, o desafía a tus amigos en modo Versus local!

Experimenta un completo Modo Online, con peleas de Ranking y Casuales, y crea lobbies para Combates con Reglas Personalizadas!

Desbloquea más de 200 recompensas especiales al conquistar los distintos modos de juego!

Domina tus habilidades de combate en el completo Cuarto de Entrenamiento!

Omen of Sorrow sale a la venta para PlayStation 4, tanto en formato físico como digital, el 6 de Noviembre de 2018.

El videojuego chileno de pelea de criaturas sobrenaturales llegará el 6 de noviembre digitalmente en exclusiva para PlayStation 4. #OmenOfSorrow #AOneGames #Fighting #PS4 #Halloween #Chile #Gaming @AOneGames @PlayStationLatam El videojuego chileno de pelea de criaturas sobrenaturales llegará el 6 de noviembre digitalmente en exclusiva para…

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2018 Toyota 4Runner Release Date, Specs, and Info

2018 Toyota 4Runner Release Date – 2018 Toyota 4Runner is the great car for you in case you are looking for an exploration automobile. This model will get its properly-deserved replace for the 2018 version yr and even though it has long gone unchanged for a while, they may be nonetheless no longer giving it an extensive refresh. we will get loads extra of the antique stuff here which is still taken into consideration a practical part of the automobile.

    The 4Runner gives the standard kind of premise and design as properly. It nevertheless holds its ordinary sort of layout that we’ve got already gotten used to seeing. In an international filled with high-quality metropolis-oriented SUVs which offer comfort and drivability, there is no location for a car just like the 4Runner is. but if you need a reliable car which gives four wheels and 4-wheel pressure, there is no higher vehicle to apply.

the automobile goes to be provided in distinctive trim ranges for the approaching yr and we’re going to get a lineup that consists of the SR5, TRD Off-road, TRD seasoned, and restricted trim ranges. The past due trail trim has been renamed because the TRD Off-avenue for the imminent year and it shows us which course the 4Runner is taking with its evolution.

2018 Toyota 4Runner exterior redesign

2018 Toyota 4Runner exterior redesign – there is no denying the ruggedness and the power the 2018 Toyota 4Runner is able to exemplify. This vehicle is quite a good deal recognizable everywhere it is going and it showcases what the logo has been all approximately all this time. that is why they sense reluctant to change it and are in most cases preserving to a form of a design that we were used to seeing all alongside for this model. The 2018 model goes to retain at the same course and we are able to see from the images that they’re not changing an entire lot for the car.

    It maintains genuine to its game-utility tradition and continues its wagon frame from the front to quit. The tires are huge and the clearance is quite excessive, which moreover makes it a brawny vehicle. The SR5 and TRD fashions are quite similar and they proportion most of its designs, but the TRD pro does come with a completely unique unfashionable-esque grille with “Toyota” spelled out on it. The restricted models are recognizable because they add more chrome to it than different models.

2018 4Runner indoors changes

2018 4Runner interior adjustments – The internal of the 2018 Toyota 4Runner maintains its conventional seems but manages to feature some new information as properly. The interior is pretty upright and gives you a commanding and clean view from the front windshield. The dashboard gives a blocky layout, but it is still very much useful and has a clear layout. you may locate the off-street controls placed in an overhead console which manages to hold the middle stack controls separated and organized in a trustworthy way. there is a second display introduced at the center stack and the guidance wheel gives added controls for some new features of the automobile.

    The 2018 Toyota 4Runner is quite large and so had been the automobile which got here before it. the car is capable of boast with a few wonderful dimensions and specifications in terms of its size. but that is what the car is all approximately. Toyota has controlled to offer a unique vehicle with regards to its potential and rancid-street capability so it is no wonder how strong and big the auto is. the general lengths remain at a hundred ninety.7 in and a wheelbase of 109.8 in. the automobile is seventy-five .8 in excessive and seventy two.zero in wide. The passenger volume remains saved at 124 toes, however, the trunk potential is quite small with only 9 feet. the generally weight is still quite high and it stands at 4400-4850 lb.

    the new 2018 Toyota 4Runner will provide a preferred set of protection functions. we can desire to see all types of anti-collision functions with balance control and anti-lock brakes and eight airbags which include front knee airbags as properly. The rearview camera comes popular and is offered across the complete lineup. The preceding version had a four-big name overall crash score given with the aid of the NHTSA, even as the IIHS has given it a basic “correct” score. they may try and improve on some of the modern-day specs with the aid of changing some things.

  2018 Toyota 4Runner Powertrain options

The newest 2018 Toyota 4Runner will maintain to its typical type of powertrain with the new model. they may be now not going to exchange an already proper and usable premise so we can assume to look the four.0-liter V-6 engine making a return. The engine gives an output of 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet and is going to be combed with a five-speed automatic transmission. The towing capability of the car is considered one of its finest assets and it sits at 5,000 pounds.

    The 2018 Toyota 4Runner can simply boast with its acceleration speed. it is going to be similar to earlier than and we can say that it has a very good offer primarily based on the section it occupies and the layout and weight of the automobile. it may make zero-60 mph in 7.6 seconds and still boasts a top speed of 115 mph.

The 2018 Toyota 4Runner will no longer offer vast EPA ratings. The off-road abilities of the car should be paid in some way and the gasoline intake of the car is the way to do it. it’ll nevertheless have an EPA score of 17 mpg town, 22 highway, 19 combined for the rear-wheel force versions whilst the 4-wheel-force fashions offer a 17/21/18 mpg. So if you are making plans on owning this vehicle be organized to spend a number of gas for it.

  2018 Toyota 4Runner release Date and Price

we are expecting to see the 2018 Toyota 4Runner pretty quickly. actually based at the presented records the auto goes to get its release date within the begin of 2018. the auto gets an upgrade and we’re nevertheless getting undercover agent pix of it however it’s miles clear that the redesign isn’t always going to function too many changes.

The starting fee for the subsequent generation 2018 Toyota 4Runner is going to be comparable to earlier than. you’ll be able to get the automobile at a fee of 34,210 USD for the base version. The TRD Off-street is available at 37,335 USD, the premium is 37,915 USD, the TRD seasoned you can get for forty-two,200 USD at the same time as the restrained is forty-two,525 USD. All of those costs are present-day MSRP rankings and we suspect that it is going to be stored within the equal neighborhood for the destiny model.

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