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You are here: Home / 2017 / Archives for December 2017

Archives for December 2017

Gaming: Tt eSPORTS Cronos Riing RGB 7.1 Headphones Review

12/26/2017 By Zach Can

Tt eSPORTS Cronos Riing RGB 7.1 headphones review

Thermaltake through its Tt eSPORTS brand has rolled out some unique gaming products in 2017. One such example was that they’re one of the first companies to release a gaming mouse with a fingerprint scanner. Thermaltake’s practice is “Quality, Performance, and Reliability.” One of this year’s releases was the Cronos Riing RGB 7.1 gaming headset. (It genuinely upsets me that “Riing” is spelled this way.) To be confident enough to have a spelling deviation like this, the product better be good. Not too long ago we got our hands on the Cronos Riing RGB. Is this headset a worthy addition to your gaming rig? Let’s take a closer look in this Tt eSPORTS Cronos Riing RGB 7.1 headphones review.

[envira-gallery id=”9950″]

Key Features of the Tt eSPORTS Cronos Riing RGB 7.1

  • Oversized and tilted 50 mm neodymium drivers
  • Eight lighting effects, 16.8 million colors
  • 7.1 virtual surround sound
  • Customizable software
  • In-line control
  • Fold-flat design
Read:   Gaming: Tt esports MEKA PRO Keyboard Review

Per the press release, “It comes packed with features and latest tech offering up an oversized 50 mm state-of-the-art tilting neodymium driver, true RGB engineered 16.8 million color illumination amongst 8 different lighting effects, and the latest 7.1 premium virtual surround sound technology to offer the most immersive 3D sound experience to ensure you hear all sounds with pinpoint accuracy for that all-important competitive edge.”

Tt eSPORTS Cronos Riing RGB 7.1 Headphones Review

Design

The gaming headset comes in an all sleek black color. When you plug it in, the control dongle, the RGB aspect on each ear cup, and heck, even a line on the microphone lights up. This light on the microphone lights up red when it’s both un-muted and muted, which is a little confusing. I had expected the microphone light to turn white indicating it’s not muted, but no luck. The mic can be extended out of its little cubby hole, and then adjusted.

Tt eSPORTS Cronos Riing RGB 7.1 headphones review

The ear cups pivot to a flat position allowing for effortless storage. They’re made from soft memory foam and fit snug over your ear. How the headset fits over your head is a bit of a problem. The Cronos Riing RGB 7.1 headset uses an elastic/spring type of fitting, where the “headband” slowly adjusts to your head. While it’s awkward the first time you put it on, it gradually conforms to your head. It’s not a bad fit, just inconvenient at first.

The control dongle has a Tt eSPORTS logo, volume control, 7.1 surround, microphone mute, and specific volume modes, reminiscent of the Sennheiser Gaming audio amplifier. The headphones come with software that is easily installed.

[envira-gallery id=”9955″]
Read:   Gaming: Patriot Viper V361 & V370 Headsets Review

Specifications

• Drivers: 50 mm Neodymium magnet
• Cable Length: 2 Meters
• Max Input: 100 mW
• Headphone Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz
• Impedance: 32 Ω
• Sound Pressure Level: 99 ± 3 db

• Pick-up Pattern: Omindirectional
• Microphone Frequency Response: 100 Hz – 10 kHz
• Microphone Impedance: < 2.2 kΩ
• Microphone Sensitivity: -42 db ± 3 db
• Weight: 15.2 oz
• Dimensions: 8 x 3.8 x 9 inches

Tt eSPORTS Cronos Riing RGB 7.1 headphones review

Read:   Sennheiser GSP 301 Gaming Headset Review

Performance

The first thing I noticed is the microphone volume is unusually low, even when maxed out using the software. And there’s an annoying buzz of static. It’s not noticeable when actual audio is going through them, but it’s audible without. Nonetheless, the audio comes out clean. The headset’s 7.1 virtual surround sound has more reverb than I would like, and those special audio effects don’t offer enough value. In fact, most of them lower the sound quality, while one sounds exactly like the regular audio. You can set the speed and mic volume, and master volume.

The lightning effects look cool, but you can’t even see the colors when you’re wearing them. It makes for great video when everyone around you can observe the colors lit up. Eight effects come with the headset’s software: Static, Pulse, Spectrum Running, Music Rhythm, Single Blink, Double Blink, Rapid Blink, and Rapid Pulse.

[envira-gallery id=”9937″]

During gameplay of Rainbox Six Siege, the headphones performed quite well. I managed to hear roamers in the game trying to outflank us. However, according to my teammates, the microphone was overly quiet. It might have to do with the fact that it’s a bit behind your head. Regardless, I had to turn up the volume output for my microphone.

Overall, this is where the headphones shined most, helping track people moving around me better than my usual earbuds. After 1-2 hours of gaming, it started hurting my ears from too much pressure. This soreness is not something we look forward to with headphones. If your ears are sore after gaming, it’s a really bad sign of how much pressure is being placed on them. Another item to note is the earcups get warm-to-hot as their ventilation isn’t up to par.

Tt eSPORTS Cronos Riing RGB 7.1 headphones review

Read:   Gaming: Tt eSPORTS Black FP Mouse Review

Final Thoughts

In summary, the Tt eSPORTS Cronos Riing RGB 7.1 headphones come with 50 mm neodymium drivers, eight lighting effects, 16.8 million colors, 7.1 virtual surround sound, software, in-line control, and a fold-flat design.

The gaming headphones are good, but nothing sets them apart from the competition. They’re very similar to the Gamdias HEBE M1 RGB headphones in the way of software and RGB color.

For a list price of $89, this headset leans toward the higher-end of the gaming accessories spectrum. If this one doesn’t fit your needs, there are 17 Tt eSPORTS gaming headset models and color patterns currently available. We’re sure there’s at least one worth your time and consideration.

All-in-all, this gaming headset (and software) earned a 3.5 out of 5-star rating. There are plenty of gaming headsets available with a variety of features, so compare away until you find the right one for you.

Tt eSPORTS Cronos Riing RGB 7.1 headphones review

The Tt eSPORTS Cronos Riing RGB 7.1 gaming headset is available for purchase on Amazon for $77 (see link below) and the Tt eSPORTS website.

What do you think of this Tt eSPORTS Cronos Riing RGB 7.1 headphones review? Do you agree or disagree with our verdict? Let us know in the comment section below or via social media. We’re eager to hear your thoughts.

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Don’t hesitate to head over to the Tt eSPORTS homepage to see their current line-up of products. Soon we’ll all see what’s coming out in 2018. The Tt eSPORTS Cronos Riing RGB 7.1 gaming headset comes with a 2-year warranty. Should you need to reach Customer Support, click on this link.

Gamer Jack Yang wrote a portion of this review. All photographs are the copyrighted property of Thermaltake or Beantown LLC © 2017.

FTC Disclosure: Tt eSPORTS provided Beantown LLC with one (1) Cronos Riing RGB 7.1 gaming headset sample for review purposes. These writers opinions are 100% their own, and neither are paid product ambassadors.

Tt eSPORTS Cronos Riing RGB 7.1 headphones review

Read:   HyperX Cloud Revolver S Headset Preview

Filed Under: Gaming Hardware, Headphones Tagged With: 7.1 virtual surround sound, Cronos Riing, gaming headset, Thermaltake, tT eSports 12/26/2017

Introducing the Justice League Aquaman Figure from Mezco Toyz

12/25/2017 By Hakan Can

Justice League Aquaman Figure

Available for shipment sometime between Q2 & Q3 of 2018 comes the latest creation from the folks at Mezco Toyz, the One: 12 Collective Justice League Aquaman figure. As seen in this year’s Justice League movie, Actor Jason Mamoa’s Aquaman action figure is the newest DC Comics character to be added to their Mezco Toyz roster of DC Universe deluxe figures.

Per the release, “Fueled by his restored faith in humanity and inspired by Superman’s selfless act, Bruce Wayne enlists newfound ally Diana Prince to face an even greater threat. Together, Batman and Wonder Woman work quickly to recruit a team, a Justice League, to stand against this newly awakened enemy. Despite the formation of an unprecedented league of heroes — Batman, Wonder Woman, Aquaman, Cyborg and the Flash — it may be too late to save the planet from an assault of catastrophic proportions.”

[envira-gallery id=”9911″]

Should you happen to attend a future Toy Fair NY, head over to the Mezco Toyz booth and check out their current and future line of figures and dolls. You’ll like what you see so much, that you’ll want to buy something on the spot.

Justice League Aquaman joins the One:12 Collective with a detailed outfit and portrait sculpture.

Scheduled for shipment in June-August 2018, pricing is set at $80 per unit + freight. Figures are deliverable only within the USA.

Read:   Introducing the Mezco Toyz One 12 Knightmare Batman Action Figure

Mezco Toyz One: 12 Collective Justice League Aquaman Figure

Exclusive
• One (1) head portrait
• Over 30 points of articulation
• Hand painted authentic detailing
• Over 15 cm tall

Features
• Eight (8) pairs of interchangeable hands including:
• One (1) pair of fists (left & right)
• One (1) pair of swimming hands (left & right)
• One (1) pair of posing hands (left & right)
• One (1) pair of holding hands (left & right)

[envira-gallery id=”9912″]
Read:   Introducing the Tactical Suit Batman Figure from Mezco Toyz

Aquaman’s Costume and Accessories

Costume
• Sculpted body armor
• Sculpted shoulder armor
• Sculpted wrist gauntlets
• Sculpted thigh armor
• Sculpted knee guards
• Sculpted boots
• Fabric screen detailed bodysuit

Accessories
• One (1) quindent
• One (1) mother box
• One (1) One:12 Collective display base w/logo
• One (1) One:12 Collective adjustable display post

[envira-gallery id=”9913″]

Read:   Introducing the Mezco One 12 Wolverine Action Figure

The Wrap

Per Mezco, “each figure is packaged in a deluxe, collector friendly box designed with collectors in mind.”

If you’re a collector of deluxe action figures or a fan of The Justice League, this Mezco One: 12 Collective Aquaman action figure is perfect for you. Don’t hesitate to check out the Mezco Toyz DC Universe page to see the latest DC Comics character announcements.

Justice League Aquaman Figure

Follow Mezco Toyz and Beantown on any of the following social media platforms:

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FTC Disclosure: This writer is not a paid product ambassador.

All photographs are the copyrighted property of Mezco Toyz © 2017.

Read:   Introducing the Mezco One 12 Harley Quinn Action Figure

Filed Under: Toying Around Tagged With: Aquaman, DC Comics, DC Universe, Justice League, Mezco Toyz 02/07/2018

Plantronics BackBeat FIT Wireless Sport Headphones Review

12/14/2017 By Hakan Can

Plantronics BackBeat FIT wireless sport headphones review

Roughly one year ago, we were introduced to the Plantronics BackBeat FIT wireless sport headphones at CES2017. Since that day, we had been hoping to get our hands on these Bluetooth headphones to review. A couple of months ago we hit pay dirt. The word on the street (and in the land of reviews) was that these headphones were the perfect choice to wear during a workout. We had to determine this for ourselves. Want to know if this headset hit the mark? Without further delay, let’s take a closer look in this Plantronics BackBeat FIT wireless sport headphones review. Plantronics BackBeat Fit wireless sport headphones review

Pros:
• Very good sound quality
• Well constructed, flexible design
• Many color patterns available
• Stable, comfortable fit
• IP57 waterproof rated
• IPX5 rated charging pouch

Cons:
• Uses micro-USB port instead of USB-C
• Lacks Hi-Res Audio capability
• Lacks wear detection

Read:   Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 Headset Review: Oh What Sound!

Plantronics BackBeat FIT Wireless Sport Headphones Review

Per Greg Miller, Director, Portfolio Business Management at Plantronics, “The BackBeat FIT Family provides a variety of styles and features designed with sport in mind. There’s a sweat-protected, stable and comfortable pair of BackBeat FIT headphones that’s right for any level of fitness – whether you’re looking for a dedicated sport headphone with on-demand coaching, or just want something comfortable and stylish to wear throughout the day.”

BackBeat FIT Design

Many of you who are familiar with the BackBeat FIT probably don’t know that since September 20, 2017, there has been a refresh of the product line. On that date, two new editions were introduced: BackBeat FIT Training and BackBeat FIT Boost editions. With the Training Edition, you get unlimited access to a dozen pre-selected workouts from the PEAR Personal Fitness Coach app (available on Google Play and iTunes) plus a six-month membership to PEAR+.

The Boost Edition includes everything with the Training Edition along with an IPX5 rated water-resistant, quick-drying, sport mesh fabric charging pouch. This pouch adds up to 10 hours of listening time. There’s even a touch-sensitive battery meter which displays the status of the headphones and pouch.

Plantronics BackBeat Fit wireless sport headphones review

Read:   Gaming: Plantronics RIG 600 Headset Review

So…what do you need to know before operating these wireless sport headphones? Simply stated, next to nothing. The beauty of this headset is that it requires but a few steps to operate.

  1. Touch the power button located on the right side.
  2. Pair the headphones to a mobile phone.
  3. Hit the audio (play/pause) button located on the left side.

Button features like play, pause, skip to next track, play previous track are all controlled via the audio button, and reliably work as advertised. The same goes for muting a telephone call.

Firmware and voice alert language updates are handled without the need of a cable via the BackBeat FIT Companion app available on Android and iOS platforms.

The headphones fit well around the ears and don’t fall off while running. This is true when sweating a lot. The wire doesn’t get in the way either.

Overall, the headset’s construction is well executed and assures high quality. The Boost Edition headphones are currently available in three colors: Sport Grey, Black Core, and Power Blue. The Training Edition comes in Fit Fuchsia and Stealth Green in addition to the same three colors. Should an additional color be introduced, this post will be updated. And each color of the BackBeat FIT has a reflective finish.

Read:   Beyerdynamic Byron BT Wireless Headphones Review

Specifications

• Sensitivity: 105 db/mW
• Speaker Size: 13 mm Neodymium
• Frequency Response: 50 Hz – 20 kHz
• Waterproof Rating: IP57
• TDH: < 3%

• Listening/Talk Time: Up to 8/6 hours
• Charging Time: Up to 2 Hours
• Standby Time: Up to 14 Days
• Operating Distance: Up to 33 Feet
• Weight: 24 grams/0.85 oz

What’s In The Box?

• Headphones
• Wireless Charging Pouch

• USB Charge Cable
• User Manual

Plantronics BackBeat Fit wireless sport headphones review

Read:   Moshi Avanti Headphones Review

Audio Performance

I repeat this with every audio review, but when reviewing speakers and headphones, the most critical factor is the quality of sound.

When covering audio performance, we usually put forth a music playlist we tested the headphones with.

For this review, we decided to break from tradition and have our sports physio friend Smiley test a broad range of music on-the-fly. Never working out to a set list, Smiley tends to listen to a variety of genres depending on her workout. After two weeks of some hardcore training, her feedback was that all genres sounded as they should. The sound quality was high, and you could truly hear each song.

According to Smiley, the fully charged battery lasted 7-8 hours getting her through five 1.5-hour workouts. The recharging of the battery took approximately two hours.

Read:   Moshi Helios Lite Designer Backpack Review

One Thing Worth Mentioning

Now, I wouldn’t be much of a reviewer if I didn’t find some fault(s) with the BackBeat FIT. The feature I disliked the most is the old style micro USB charging port. It’s late in 2017, and many mobile device makers have been eliminating this port in favor of the newer, more versatile USB-C style connector.Plantronics BackBeat Fit wireless sport headphones review

Read:   Audio-Technica ATH-SR5BT Headphones Review

Conclusion

In our testing, the feature-rich BackBeat FIT wireless sport headphones with the water-resistant charging pouch performed quite well. The audio reproduction of vocals and instruments was high.

From first- and second-hand experience, we recommend the BackBeat FIT for any-and-all workout activities. We tested them on long runs, as well as during cross-fit and weight training. The headphones were quite comfortable throughout each workout. Depending on the length of your length, you could see one charge lasting 4-6 workouts. And if the battery life is near its end, you need not worry as a 15-minute charge produces an hour of listening time. Plus, there’s the water-resistant charging pouch that can hold an additional 10 hours of power.

Available in five colors, the stand-alone BackBeat FIT Training Edition lists for $129.99. The Boost Edition, available in three colors, includes the PEAR app, six months membership to PEAR+, and the charging pouch for $159.99. See the links to Amazon at the bottom of this post if you’re interested in purchasing either edition.

Since its introduction, the BackBeat FIT headphones have been and continue to be among the best in-ear wireless sport headphones in the marketplace, and are well-priced against their often more expensive competition. We highly recommend you consider this item before purchasing your next pair.

Plantronics BackBeat Fit wireless sport headphones review

Plantronics BackBeat Fit In-Ear Wireless Sport Headphones

Read:   Headphones: Audio-Technica ATH-DSR7BT Review

What do you think of this Plantronics BackBeat FIT wireless sport headphones review? Do you agree or disagree with our verdict? Let us know in the comment section below or via social media. We’re eager to hear your thoughts.

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Don’t hesitate to head over to the Plantronics Newsroom to see their latest announcements. The BackBeat FIT wireless sport headphones come with a one-year limited warranty.

FTC Disclosure: Plantronics provided Beantown LLC with one (1) BackBeat FIT sport headphones Boost Edition sample for review purposes. This writer’s opinion is 100% his own and not a paid product ambassador.

All photographs are the copyrighted property of Beantown LLC © 2017.

Read:   Headphones: Sennheiser IE 80 S Review

Filed Under: Headphones Tagged With: BackBeat Fit, Bluetooth Headphones, Boost Edition, In-Ear Headphones, Plantronics, Sport Headphones, Wireless Headphones 12/24/2017

Introducing the Tactical Suit Batman Figure from Mezco Toyz

12/04/2017 By Hakan Can

Tactical Suit Batman figure

Available for shipment sometime between Q2 and Q3 of 2018 comes the latest creation from the folks at Mezco Toyz, the One: 12 Collective Tactical Suit Batman figure. As seen in the film Justice League, this Tactical Suit Batman action figure is the newest DC Universe character to be added to their Mezco Toyz roster of deluxe figures.

Per the release, “Fueled by his restored faith in humanity and inspired by Superman’s selfless act, Bruce Wayne enlists newfound ally Diana Prince to face an even greater threat. Together, Batman and Wonder Woman work quickly to recruit a team, a Justice League, to stand against this newly awakened enemy. Revealed for the first time in Justice League, the figure showcases the never-before-seen Tactical Batsuit with visible upgrades.”

[envira-gallery id=”9819″]

Should you happen to attend a future Toy Fair NY, head over to the Mezco Toyz booth and check out their current and future line of figures and dolls. You’ll like what you see so much, that you’ll want to buy something on the spot.

Tactical Suit Batman joins the One:12 Collective with a detailed outfit and portrait sculpture.

Scheduled for shipment in June-August 2018, pricing is set at $80 per unit + freight. Figures are deliverable only within the USA.

Read:   Introducing the Mezco Toyz One 12 Knightmare Batman Action Figure

Mezco Toyz One: 12 Collective Tactical Suit Batman Figure

Exclusive
• Two (2) head portraits
• Over 30 points of articulation
• Hand painted authentic detailing
• Over 17 cm tall

Features
• Seven (7) pairs of interchangeable hands including:
• One (1) pair of fists (left & right)
• One (1) pair posing hands (left & right)
• One (1) gun holding hand (right)
• One (1) pair of Batarang holding hand (left & right)

[envira-gallery id=”9820″]
Read:   Introducing the Mezco One 12 Deadpool Action Figure

Tactical Suit Batman Costume and Accessories

Costume
• Sculpted cowl
• Sculpted body armor
• Sculpted gauntlets and gloves
• Sculpted utility belt
• Sculpted boots
• Fabric screen detailed undersuit
• Leather look cape

Accessories
• One (1) pair of goggles to be worn in up position
• One (1) pair of goggles to be worn over eyes
• One (1) Parademon rifle
• Three (3) Batarangs
• Three (3) grenades
• One (1) grappling gun w/three (3) grapples
• One (1) cape clip w/posing wires
• One (1) One:12 Collective display base w/logo
• One (1) One:12 Collective adjustable display post

[envira-gallery id=”9823″]

Read:   Introducing the Mezco One 12 Wolverine Action Figure

The Wrap

Per Mezco, “each figure is packaged in a deluxe, collector friendly box designed with collectors in mind.”

If you’re a collector of deluxe action figures or a fan of The Batman, this Mezco One: 12 Collective Tactical Suit Batman action figure is perfect for you. Don’t hesitate to check out the Mezco Toyz DC Universe page to see the latest DC Comics character announcements.

Follow Mezco Toyz and Beantown on any of the following social media platforms:

• Follow MezcoToyz on Twitter
• Follow MezcoToyz on Facebook
• Follow MezcoToyz on Instagram

• Follow Beantown on Twitter
• Follow Beantown on Facebook
• Follow Beantown on Instagram

FTC Disclosure: This writer is not a paid product ambassador.

All photographs are the copyrighted property of Mezco Toyz © 2017.

Read:   Introducing the Mezco One 12 Harley Quinn Action Figure

Filed Under: Toying Around Tagged With: Batman, DC Comics, DC Universe, Justice League, Mezco Toyz, Tactical Suit Batman 12/04/2017

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