Archives for November 2016

Preview: JAM Voice Portable Speaker featuring Amazon Alexa

11/20/2016 By Hakan Can

JAM Enters the Amazon Alexa Foray with the JAM Voice Portable Speaker

It wasn’t that long ago when Amazon introduced Alexa, their voice assistant platform, to the world. Now with over 3 million Alexa-enabled products in use in the U.S. alone, and growing by the day, you knew it wouldn’t be long before other brands jumped on the Alexa A.I. bandwagon. About a month ago, the folks at JAM Audio announced their first Alexa-based smart product, the JAM Voice portable speaker.

According to John Mikkola, Director of Product Development, “Since the inception of JAM Audio, our mission has been to provide consumers with high-quality products that utilize the latest technologies at significantly lower prices. Our latest offering, JAM Voice™, provides everyone a chance to enjoy the convenience of a virtual assistant, making daily life tasks easier.”

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The Jam Voice portable speaker with Amazon Alexa has the following features:

On-Product Features:
• Microphone Button
• Play/Pause Button
• Volume Down/Previous Track Button
• Volume Up/Next Track Button

• On/Off Button
• Reset Button
• Wi-Fi/Bluetooth Mode Selector
• Wi-Fi/Bluetooth Light
• Battery Light

After downloading and logging into the JAM WiFi and Amazon Alexa apps to your mobile phone or tablet, you’ll be able to ask Alexa a question, play music from Amazon library, and stream music from Spotify, iHeartRadio, and Pandora. The JAM WiFi app also allows you to play music on multiple JAM Voice speakers. The JAM Voice™ even can act as an intercom to other connected speakers, create alarms and timers, and control certain smart home products.

Read: JAM Audio Xterior Max Speaker Review

Specifications

• Model Number: HX-P590
• Product Dimensions: 3″ x 3″ x 3″ or 0.37 Feet³
• Color Options: Black and White/Gray
• Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Ready

• Operating Time: 4 Hours
• Charging Time: 3 Hours
• Weight: 0.61 lbs
• Warranty: 1 Year Limited

Package Contents: speaker, USB charging cable, and documentation.

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Read: Triby Review: Alexa Smart Speaker

Summary

The JAM Voice™ Wi-Fi/Bluetooth speaker can be purchased directly from the JAM Audio website for $79.99, or from Amazon (see below.) Check Amazon often as we saw the white/gray speaker priced for $20 less.

Now through December 11, everything on the JAM Audio website is 30% off with coupon code CYBER.

What are your initial thoughts on the JAM Voice portable speaker with Amazon Alexa? Let us know in the comment section below or via social media. We’re eager to hear your thoughts.

Feel free to follow JAM Wireless Audio on Twitter and Facebook as well as this very blog on Twitter and Facebook.

This writer’s opinion is 100% his own and not a paid product ambassador.

Read: Caseco Shock Express Metallic Case, Core 360, and Mountie Car Mount Review

Gaming: Gamdias HERMES E1 Keyboard Combo Review

11/18/2016 By Hakan Can

Review: Gamdias HERMES E1 Combo

It’s been one heck of a busy year for the gaming hardware manufacturer Gamdias. With dozens of products introduced in 2016, they’ve created quite the buzz around their brand in and out of the gaming arena. With the end of year approaching, they kept their right foot on the pedal and continued to introduce new products like HEBE headsets, ZEUS mice, and the HERMES E1 keyboard and mouse combo. So without any further delay, welcome to our Gamdias HERMES E1 Combo review.

Read: Gaming: Gamdias HEBE M1 RGB Headset Review

Want to win this HERMES E1 combo? In cooperation with Gamdias, we’re giving away this keyboard + mouse combo beginning Monday at 12:01 AM. Enter the Giveaway. It could be yours before Christmas. Good luck.

Introducing the HERMES E1 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

Design and Features

For those of you who own or have looked at a HERMES keyboard, you’ll notice many similarities in this HERMES E1 keyboard. When it comes to appearance and features, the HERMES E1 looks closest to the HERMES LITE. As a mechanical gaming keyboard, the E1 has the same GAMDIAS certified Kailh blue mechanical switches/TTC switches as found in the HERMES RGB. Because it uses the Kailh switches, the HERMES E1 has a 50 million push button life cycle. Like the previously reviewed Gamdias keyboards, this board is connected via one USB port.

On the HERMES E1, the keys are raised making it easy to see the red lights underneath them. The keys have an handsomely-finished aluminum plate for added durability. When it comes to gaming keyboards, I’ve noticed complaints from reviewers about the use of metal plates. But I disagree with them. I believe an aluminum (metal) plate stabilizer is an excellent addition to a keyboard. Not much force (45 cN) is needed to register as a key press. While the keys are audible, they are not loud or annoying.

There’s a removable wrist plate, which I believe is a good thing for hardcore gamers. Keyboard dimensions are 17.64 x 7.97 (or 6.2 w/o wrist plate) x 1.45 inches. Flip the keyboard over, and you’ll notice three channels to direct the nearly 6′ braided cable. Like previous reviews, this HERMES E1 keyboard has very stiff legs. Unless you have a thin thumb, you’ll be using an index or middle finger to raise the legs. There’s also a handy key puller attached to the underside of the board. You can also completely lock the keyboard out, for when you want to vacuum it or pull a key out.

Read: Gamdias HERMES RGB Keyboard Review

Specifications courtesy of Gamdias, Inc.

When it comes to features, this HERMES E1 keyboard comes loaded with them. The keyboard comes with three lighting effects: Normal, Breathing, and Responsive Fade Out. There’s also the ability to change the five backlight brightness levels (Off, 30%, 60%, 100%, and Monochrome Breathing) to your liking.

The media player controls are well marked on function keys F2, F3, and F5-F8. You can switch “WASD” to the arrow keys and vice versa. The Windows key is located on the left side while the Fn key is center-right on the board.

Wondering about N-key rollover? Here are the 21 keys: Q, W, E, R, U, I, O, P, \, 7, 8, 9, +, Enter, Backspace, F9, F10, F11, F12, Scroll, and Pause.

Upon downloading and installing the HERA software, you’ll have access to the listed features. This software has to be installed if you want to use all the keyboard features. Your customizations are where the built-in 256K of memory comes into play.

• Six customizable gaming profiles: Fn+PF1-PF6
• Six multimedia short keys: Fn+F2-F3 & FN+F5-F8
• Backlight brightness levels: Fn+8 to increase
• Backlight brightness levels: Fn+2 to decrease

• Game mode: Fn+Windows key
• Lock keyboard keys: Fn+F11
• Snap between WASP and Arrow mode keys:
• OTF macro recording and indicator light: Fn+F9

Read: Gaming: Gamdias HERMES 7 Color Keyboard Review

I have only one complaint with this keyboard, and that is the type font. Even though I’m well versed in the use of a QWERTY keyboard, the futuristic font initially threw me for a loop. It took about two weeks to get past particular letters and numbers having gaps in them.

Introducing the DEMETER E2 Optical Gaming Mouse

Fortunately, the DEMETER E2 mouse is not as complex a device as the HERMES E1 keyboard. The DEMETER E2 is your standard gaming mouse. The mouse comes in a black matte color with a very comfortable texture to it. Looking at the photos, you would see that if you were to cut the mouse down the middle, it would be nearly identical on both sides with one exception being the two buttons on the left. Additional specifications are listed below.

If you install the HERA software, you can control the cursor speed, enable acceleration, configure the DPI level from 1200 to 3200, set the polling rate, vertical scroll speed, double click speed, lift-off setting, and straight path correction. The mouse produces an attractive repeating color pattern of blue, violet, and red.

In our testing, the DEMETER E2 gaming mouse, like the HERMES E1 keyboard, worked perfectly without any glitches.

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I have only one complaint with this mouse, and that is its shape. My critique may apply to some of you readers. You see, I like to firmly grasp a mouse with all of my fingers. As a right-handed person, my hand would be better suited if the right side of the mouse did not have the protrusion to rest the ring or pinky finger on. To get around this, I had to learn to hold the mouse with a less firm grasp so as to not cause soreness in those two fingers. I now keep the pinky finger away from the mouse entirely. Hence the discomfort has dissipated.

Read: Gamdias ZEUS eSport Laser Gaming Mouse Review

Specifications courtesy of Gamdias, Inc.

Final Thoughts

Keyboard and mice combo sets have their purpose in the gaming and non-gaming sectors. These products make good purchases for the budget-conscious consumer (or business) by providing plenty of bang for the buck. It also removes one purchasing decision as you only have one product to consider as opposed to two (i.e. separate mice and keyboard purchases.) I can say from first-hand experience that there will always be something you don’t like about a combo as having previously purchased ones from the likes of Microsoft, Logitech, and Thermaltake. None of those three combos came with a mouse pad. While my two peeves (as stated above) are legitimate concerns, they won’t affect the minds of all potential buyers as we’re unique creatures with slightly different habits.

Read: HyperX Cloud Revolver Headset Review

The list price of the HERMES E1 combo is $79.99. The great news about this combo is that while Amazon is out of stock, the folks at Newegg currently have it for $49.99. I would call this a steal. Here in the USA, each gaming keyboard combo product comes with a 1-year warranty from date of purchase.

Have you tried the HERMES E1 keyboard and mouse combo? Do you agree (or disagree) with any part of this Gamdias HERMES E1 combo review? Let us know in the comment section below or via social media. We’re eager to hear your thoughts.

Feel free to follow Gamdias on Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube as well as this very blog on Twitter and Facebook. And don’t hesitate to head over to the Gamdias website to see their latest gaming hardware.

FTC Disclosure: Gamdias provided Beantown LLC with one (1) HERMES E1 keyboard + DEMETER E2 mouse combo sample for review purposes. This writer’s opinion is 100% his own and not a paid product ambassador.

Read: HyperX Cloud II Headset Review

Catalyst Introduces Waterproof Cases for iPhone 7 and Apple Watch 2

11/16/2016 By Hakan Can

Catalyst Intros Waterproof Cases for iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus and Apple Watch Series 2

It feels like yesterday when Apple introduced their latest mobile devices, the iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus, and Apple Watch Series 2, to the world. Earlier this month, Catalyst Case, one of the best names in iPhone and iPad protection, followed suit and announced their complementary products, the Catalyst® case for the iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus, and both sizes of the new Apple Watch. Even though the new iPhone 7 phones have a water-resistant ingress protection rating of 67, this IP rating doesn’t make them waterproof. For that, you have to step up to IP68. I don’t know about you but when I’m poolside and hear the word ‘Cannonball.‘ I quickly get my mobile devices out of harm’s way. It’s even worse when lounging at the beach or working at a construction site. Now, you don’t have to worry about dust, dirt, and sand. With the latest products from Catalyst, you no longer have to worry these elements getting into your device. Your iPhone 7 and Watch 2 are protected.

According to CEO June Lai, “Catalyst has developed a new line of waterproof cases that sets a new industry leading standard for total protection. Our latest products offer the highest level of waterproof protection using our proprietary air and water tight case construction featuring our True Sound Acoustics that allow clear audio transmission over a frequency range of 50Hz to 20,000Hz. Our solutions protect your device from all the elements.”

Per Chief Creative Officer Josh Wright, “I am incredibly proud of the products our team has developed and brought to market over the last several years. Our latest creations are hands down the most high performance, rugged, everyday cases that we’ve ever made. But we do more than protect. Catalyst enables people to take and use their devices at the beach, snowboarding or skiing, in turbulent weather and in rough and dirty work environments. I’m excited to introduce this new line of products to the market.”

Read: Sit or Stand? The ErgotronHome Hub27 Desk Review

Catalyst iPhone 7 & iPhone 7 Plus Waterproof Case Gallery

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Specifications – iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus

Every unit tested IP68 waterproof to 33ft (10m)
Designed to meet or exceed MIL-STD 810G for drops and shocks up to 6.6ft (2m)
Fully sealed against dust, dirt, and snow
Cases are made from impact resistant polycarbonate, a premium, non-slip, soft-touch rubber exterior, silicone seals and air and water tight acoustic membranes
Includes wrist lanyard that attaches to a case for extra security
Signature Catalyst clear case front and case back showcases and compliments the iconic design of your iPhone
Unique, patented, rotating crown dial switches mute on and off
Integrated ultra-sensitive screen protector maintains full touchscreen access (including Control Center and swipe functions)
Catalyst’s signature True Sound Acoustics allows clear sound transmission from 50 to 20,000 Hz allowing the user to hear calls, music, and videos clearly
Full access to all buttons, sensors, cameras, flash and Touch ID (including full fingerprint scan)
Hard coated optical camera lens is not recessed so it will not trap dirt, snow or water, which might otherwise impede photography
Easy to install or remove iPhone
Made of durable materials that do not limit the number of times it can be re-assembled
Fits most aftermarket charge cables (up to 11.5mm wide and 6mm thick)
iPhone 7 Case Dimensions 11.7mm thin, 150.8mm tall, 77mm wide (0.46″ x 5.93″ x 3.04″)
iPhone 7 Plus Case Dimensions 12.6mm thin, 171mm tall, 88.3mm wide (0.49″ x 6.73″ x 3.48″)
$79.99 for the iPhone 7 case available in January
$89.99 for the iPhone 7 Plus case available in March

(Specifications courtesy of Catalyst® Case)

Read: Mr. Robot Season 2 Release Date Announced for DVD/Blu-ray

Catalyst Apple Watch Series 2 Waterproof Case Gallery

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Specifications – Apple Watch Series 2 – 38mm & 42mm

Every Unit Tested IP 68 Waterproof to 330ft (100m)
Designed to meet or exceed MIL-STD 810G for shocks and drops up to 6.6ft (2m)
Cases are made from impact resistant polycarbonate, and a premium, soft silicone band
Exposed face for direct touchscreen access and pair with Bluetooth
Signature Catalyst rotating crown dial and tactical side button add a stylish drop of color to perfectly accent your watch and case
All features remain fully functional through the case including heart rate sensors, inductive charging, microphone and speaker
True Sound Acoustic membranes
Materials designed to be compatible with seawater
38mm Housing Dimensions: 50mm x 41.6mm x 14.1mm (2″ x 1.6″ x 0.5″)
42mm Housing Dimensions: 53mm x 44.8mm x 14.2mm (2.1″ x 1.7″ x 0.5″)
$59.99 for the 38mm & 42mm Apple Watch Series 2 cases available in January

(Specifications courtesy of Catalyst® Case)

Final Thoughts

Pre-orders for the iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus and 38mm, 42mm Apple Watch Series 2 are available now at Catalyst Case. For $10 off, use Code: SANTA10 at checkout. All Catalyst cases come with a limited warranty so read the document thoroughly.

Feel free to follow Catalyst Case on Twitter and Facebook as well as this very blog on Twitter and Facebook. And don’t hesitate to head over to their website to see the latest in mobile protection.

All photographs and video are the copyrighted property of Catalyst® Case.

Read: Moshi Avanti Headphones Review

Gaming: HyperX Cloud Stinger Headset Review

11/14/2016 By Zach Can

HyperX Cloud Stinger Headset Review

For the past 2-½ years, HyperX has introduced no less than five amazing gaming headsets (Cloud, Cloud II, Cloud Core, Cloud Revolver, & CloudX) and taken the gaming arena by storm. We’ve had the pleasure of reviewing two of these headsets. Less than two months ago, they introduced their sixth gaming headset, the Cloud Stinger, this time taking aim at the budget conscious consumer. What prospective HyperX customers don’t realize is that they’re getting a $100 headset packed into a $50 body. The question you may be asking is, does the lower price point represent a drop in quality? Check out our HyperX Cloud Stinger headset review to find out.

Pros:
• Modern lightweight design
• Soft leatherette ear cups w/memory foam
• 50mm dynamic drivers
• Good stereo sound reproduction

Cons:
• No surround sound capability
• No wireless capability

Read: HyperX Cloud II Headset Review

Cloud Stinger Design and Features

The HyperX Cloud Stinger is easily comparable to the Cloud II as both feature the same method of fit to one’s head. By using an adjustable steel slider, the headband will fit best to your personal preference. This is a deviation from the Cloud Revolver which uses automatic adjustment. The Cloud Stinger comes in the traditional HyperX slick black and red colors as prominently seen throughout the Cloud family. The leatherette ear cups contain signature HyperX memory foam, in addition to being able to rotate 90 degrees. On the right ear cup, there’s a volume switch reminiscent of that on the Sennheiser Day One gaming headset. It also has a “swivel-to-mute mic” which means that if you put the microphone up, it mutes itself, and if you put it down, it unmutes itself. The microphone is noise canceling.

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Read: HyperX Cloud Revolver Headset Review

Specifications

• Sound Pressure Level: 102 ± 3db
• Driver Diameter: 50 mm w/neodymium magnets
• Type: Circumaural, closed back
• Impedance: 30 Ω
• Cable Lengths: 1.3 meter + 1.7 meter Y-Extension
• Input Power: 30mW rated, 500mW maximum

• Headphone Frequency Response: 18Hz – 23kHz
• Microphone Frequency Response: 50Hz – 18kHz
• Microphone Pick Up Pattern: Unidirectional, NC
• Microphone Sensitivity: -40db
• Total Harmonic Distortion: ≤2%
• Weight: 275 grams

Within the packaging comes the Cloud Stinger headset and the two cables listed above.

[Tweet “What prospective HyperX customers don’t realize is that they’re getting a $100 headset packed into a $50 body”]

Read: Gaming: Gamdias HEBE M1 RGB Headset Review

Overall Fit and Performance

The Cloud Stinger performs like the child of the Cloud II and Cloud Revolver; it fits comfortably upon adjustment. The memory foam isn’t as soft as that on the Plantronics RIG 400HX, but that doesn’t mean it’s uncomfortable. In fact, the leatherette feels very nice against your ears. I’ve worn the Cloud Stinger for a 3-½ consecutive hours playing Counterstrike – Global Offensive and Just Cause 3 and experienced zero discomfort. Unlike the RIG 400HX, the ear cups go completely over the ears with extra space available. The ear cup rotation I found no particular use for except the fact that you can set it with ear cups face down, or you could lay them flat over your shoulders.

The quick volume switch on the side is a great feature. Instead of fumbling with changing windows, you can do it right on the spot. It’s preferable on the headset itself instead of on a control box as the former is more straightforward. I’m a big fan of the “swivel to mute mic” feature. It’s so much easier than pressing a button on-screen or unplugging the cable. You can just put the headset down and flip it. The microphone is very easy to manipulate but feels a tad flimsy. The noise canceling on the microphone is superb. The sound quality is, unfortunately, a bit below that of the Cloud Revolver. While the level of bass is good, it just doesn’t sound quite as immersive and profound as its more expensive family member.

Read: Gaming: Plantronics RIG 400HX Headset Review

Final Thoughts

The slight drop in sound quality is more than acceptable for the $50 price tag, and the two new features the Cloud Stinger comes with (“swivel to mute mic” and quick volume control) makes it an excellent headset. It’s compatible with PC, Xbox One, PS4, Wii U, Mac, and mobile devices so that it can be used with virtually everything.

If you happen to be reading this during the Black Friday – Cyber Monday weekend, you may have seen the Cloud Stinger selling for $35, so go on and pick one of these puppies up.

As you’ve read above, this gaming headset offers plenty for the price. Currently on Amazon (see link below) the HyperX Cloud Stinger Headset goes for $50. At this price, and with these features, what’s not too excited about?

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Read: Mr. Robot Season 2 Release Date Announced for DVD/Blu-ray

The HyperX Cloud Stinger gaming headphones come with a 2-year warranty. Should you need to reach Customer Support, feel free to call one of these two numbers: 714-435-2639 or 800-435-0640.

Have you tried these Cloud Stinger headphones? Do you agree (or disagree) with any part of this HyperX Cloud Stinger headset review? Let us know in the comment section below or via social media. We’re eager to hear your thoughts.

Feel free to follow HyperX on Twitter and Facebook as well as this very blog on Twitter and Facebook. And don’t hesitate to head over to the HyperX website to see their latest gaming hardware.

FTC Disclosure: HyperX provided Beantown LLC with one (1) Cloud Stinger headset sample for review purposes. This writer’s opinion is 100% his own and not a paid product ambassador.

Read: Gaming: Gamdias HERMES 7 Color Keyboard Review

Sit or Stand? The ErgotronHome Hub27 Desk Review

11/10/2016 By Hakan Can

Review: The ErgotronHome Hub27 Wall Mounted Desk & Organizer

As an “honoree” recipient of the 2016 CES Innovation Awards, the Hub27 from ErgotronHome is like a murphy bed for your desk. Ideal for dorm rooms, small city apartments or any cramped spaces; the Hub27 is a wall-mounted desk that folds up to maximize space and optimize organization. With a thoughtfully engineered design and customizable features, the Hub27 is the perfect way to take control of a tight or disorderly space. Organize your clutter with this innovative product. Let’s take a closer look in this ErgotronHome Hub27 desk review.

Pros:
• High-Quality Materials
• Customizable Inserts
• Minimalist Modern Design

Cons:
• Heavy Construction

Read: Mr. Robot Season 2 Release Date Announced for DVD/Blu-ray

Design Features

I was pleasantly surprised with the intelligent design and sturdy construction of the Hub27. The dimensions of the Hub27 are 27.3” W x 20.3” H x 3” D.

When I initially viewed the product online, it appeared to be lightweight, perhaps made of plastic. But when a large package arrived at my address, I tried to pick it up and knew right away that this was a heavy-duty product. The white cabinet is made out of metal, and the drop down desktop is frosted glass.

The inside of the desk reveals horizontal sliding bars, which allow you to snap on a series of white plastic organizers that help you contain your cables, store your pens, dock you iPad, iPhone or any other electronic devices. The Hub27 need not be limited to storing electronic devices. It can be used as a kids craft station, an artist dock, kitchen storage, dorm essentials, or in a small home as an office setting. Additionally, at the base of the unit, there is a trough for collecting extra cable and keeping your desk neat and tidy. Two latches on the sides of the frosted glass allow you to adjust the height of the desktop.

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Read: Caseco Shock Express Metallic Case, Core 360, and Mountie Car Mount Review

Installation

In total, this unit weighs almost 40 pounds, so you have to be mindful when choosing its location on your wall. During my installation, I was initially concerned about the weight pulling it out of the drywall; I attempted to align the top screws with studs in the wall, but because of the tight placement in my particular space, I could not find one that lined up correctly.

After using a level to ensure the unit was mounted evenly at both ends, I secured all four points in the sheet rock with the included drywall screw set. After fixing the Hub27 to the wall, I gave it a slight push in every direction to ensure that it was tight. I was impressed with how well it held to the drywall without a stud to support it. The manufacturer sets a weight limit at 25 pounds, so I would not treat this as a high chair, but the 25-pound limit proved to be more than adequate for a laptop, cell phone and many of the miscellaneous items that you would store in a desk.

Read: Moshi Avanti Headphones Review

Conclusion

What I find coolest about the Hub27 is the versatility of its application. This product is sold and advertised as a home desk, but that does not mean you can only put your laptop and pencils in it. The Hub27 would work great in a kitchen, garage, home studio, or really anywhere that you need to save space in an efficient way – the applications are endless.

The thoughtful design and quality construction materials used to create the Hub27 far exceeded my expectations. My reservations about the weight pulling it out of the drywall were quickly dispelled after the install.

All in all, this is a very cool and highly useful product that would significantly improve any space you placed it in.

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The list price of the Hub27 is $349.99. It’s currently available on Amazon (see link at bottom) and Staples. In the USA, the HUB27 comes with a 5-year limited warranty from date of original purchase.

Do you own a Hub27? Do you agree (or disagree) with any part of this ErgotronHome Hub27 desk review? Let us know in the comment section below or via social media. We’re eager to hear your thoughts.

Feel free to follow ErgotronHome on Twitter and Facebook as well as this very blog on Twitter and Facebook. And don’t hesitate to head over to the ErgotronHome website to see their latest organizational products.

FTC Disclosure: ErgotronHome provided Beantown LLC with one (1) Hub27 desk sample for review purposes. These writers opinion are 100% their own and not a paid product ambassadors.

Editor’s Note: This review was co-written with Elliott Hall who tested the product.

Read: The New Case Logic Urban Commuter Laptop Backpacks for Men and Women

Gaming: Gamdias HEBE M1 RGB Headset Review

11/01/2016 By Zach Can

Gamdias HEBE M1 RGB Headset Review

This one is for all you gamers out there. In case you haven’t noticed, the folks at Gamdias have made some recent additions to their product line-up. Additions that we would place at the upper end of their brand. For the past few weeks, we’ve had the opportunity to test their then unreleased 7.1 virtual surround sound headphones, the all-new HEBE M1 RGB. This pre-release opportunity will make some of you readers envious. The HEBE M1 RGB headset is designed for “enhanced competitiveness” and “unique gaming experiences.” How did this new gaming headset fare in our testing? Let’s take a closer look at this first-on-the-internet Gamdias HEBE M1 RGB headset review.

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Pros:
• Modern design
• Oversized leatherette earcups
• 50mm neodymium drivers
• Great 7.1 virtual surround sound

Cons:
• Earcup design does not allow for rotation
• No Bluetooth capability (which is fine by us)

Read: Moshi Avanti Headphones Review

RGB Design

If you’re familiar with the HyperX Cloud Revolver headset, then you’ll recognize the manner in which the HEBE M1 RGB conforms to your head. Like the former, the HEBE M1 RGB is fashioned with a metal bar at the very top, with a cushioned bar just below that rests on your head. As I mentioned in our Cloud Revolver review, some people may dislike the non-adjustable metal bar. On this new headset, I guarantee it won’t bother you one bit.

With the RGB model, the earcups don’t rotate like those on the Gamdias Hephaestus V2 headset. They’re fixed in place, thus a solid part of the frame. Now, it doesn’t bother me that they don’t rotate. You see, some gaming headsets have a tendency to turn too much, to a point where I have to constantly readjust them. It’s one of the things that can unnecessarily take up a lot of time with constant use.

The HEBE M1 RGB has over-the-ear, leatherette covered ear pads. In my experience, leatherette tends to get hot and sweaty. This is not the case with this earcup design. These earcups leave some open room just below and behind your ear allowing air to pass through. The result is you’ll be comfortable and not have sweat upon your ears.

The microphone is extendable and retractable. With its gooseneck design, you can position it almost however you want. The headphone and microphone cable is braided and encased in a plastic shielding. While this prevents virtually any possible damage to the cable, the positioning of the cable becomes more difficult because of its more stable build. The cable is somewhat short, 2 meters in length. For me, this is fine as the cable doesn’t hang on the ground. This length prevents me from running over it with my chair. The headset also comes with inline control; that has options for the volume, microphone mute, and earcup lightning. These colors look great in a dark setting; they’re vibrant and well-saturated.

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Read: Gamdias ZEUS eSport Laser Gaming Mouse Review

HEBE M1 RGB Specifications

• Sensitivity: 119 ± 3db
• Driver Diameter: 50 mm
• Microphone Size: 6.5 mm
• Microphone Pick Up Pattern: Unidirectional
• Cable Length: 2 M (6.6′)

• Impedance: 32 Ohm ± 15%
• Driver Magnets: NdFeB
• Microphone Sensitivity: -40db ± 3 db
• Vibration Unit Size: 30 mm
• Dimensions: 188 mm x 104 mm x 230 mm

Performance

After playing numerous games with the HEBE M1 RGB headset, playing Doom (2016) in particular leads to a most spectacular experience. The 7.1 virtual surround sound provides great audio cues to the demons’ locations. When you activate the bass mode on the inline control, the heavy metal in the game gets turned up to the level of euphoria. The heavy bass vibrations from this headset are its coolest and most redeeming quality. I’ve never tested a headset with this feature. It’s done well and sounds awesome! With the heavy metal and demons screeching, I’m mute to the surrounding environments due to the superb noise canceling properties. I know this may sound like a broken record, but the HEBE M1 RGB is another quality Gamdias headset for competitive games such as Counter-Strike Global Offensive and Overwatch.

The headset does have Hera support. At the time of this writing, the support was not yet available. We’ll update this review shortly after it becomes available in November. Based on the headphones alone, that is without Hera; they’re outstanding.

Read: Gaming: Gamdias HERMES 7 Color Keyboard Review

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a very comfortable higher-level headset to game for hours, then the Gamdias HEBE M1 RGB may be just what you’re looking for. Priced a good $30-50 below its competition, this 50mm-driven gaming headset is worth a very long look. Who doesn’t want a quality gaming headset at a lower price point with some money left over for that game you want to play?

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Read: Gamdias HERMES RGB Keyboard Review

The list price of the HEBE M1 RGB headset is $69.99. It’s currently available on Amazon (see link at bottom) and Newegg. In the USA, each gaming headset comes with a 1-year warranty from date of purchase.

Have you tried the HEBE M1 RGB headset? Do you agree (or disagree) with any part of this Gamdias HEBE M1 RGB headset review? Let us know in the comment section below or via social media. We’re eager to hear your thoughts.

Feel free to follow Gamdias on Twitter and Facebook as well as this very blog on Twitter and Facebook. And don’t hesitate to head over to the Gamdias website to see their latest gaming hardware.

FTC Disclosure: Gamdias provided Beantown LLC with one (1) HEBE M1 RGB headset sample for review purposes. This writer’s opinion is 100% his own and not a paid product ambassador.

Editor’s Note: My nephew (the author/reviewer) liked this gaming headset so much that it’s highly unlikely that I’ll ever see them in my home again.

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