Bluetooth Headset Nightmares & Reviews

Sharper Image Headset

Price: $29.99

Battery Life: 5-8 hrs talktime / 150-180 hrs standby

Range: 3 FEET (according to manual)

So I've been on a mission to find a decent bluetooth headset these last few weeks. I started out going cheap ($20-$30.00) range and ended up with a very small model from Sharper Image. This headset is packaged VERY impressively (in the same style as the high end jawbone headsets) with heavy plastic cubes displaying the tiny headset on the top and 4 small screws holding the box together (the box actually requires a tiny screwdriver to open).

This headset is literally not much bigger than my thumbprint. The entire piece is less than an inch in length and appears quite high-end looking. The button on the front at first glance looks like it's made from light metal. When you touch it, you'll be disappointed to discover that it's made from light silver plastic and jiggles around when you put your finger on it.

There was really nothing on the outer box that suggested range or battery longevity (that should have been my first clue to stay away!). Inside however, the specs were laid out. Battery life was typical of most headsets 5-8 hours talktime and (150-180 standby). The most shocking spec. though was the range (distance that you can use the headset from your phone). The range on the sharper image bluetooth headset was 3 FEET!!

I didn't actually read all this until after I cracked open the package and charged the unit up. Unfortunatly, I never experienced this headset functioning on my iPhone 3GS as it would not pair with the headset. I tried several times (powering down the phone, turning off bluetooth mode and turning off headset). After contacting Sharper Image Technical Support (which is AlcaTel). I was asked to ship the unit back to Sharper Image (pay shipping) and they would send me out a new, more compatible model. It seems I wasn't the first customer to have this problem!

After pairing the headset with my wife's LG Shine, I found the audio quality to be very low, with significant delay and I also noticed that holding the phone in my hand straight away from the earpiece gave so much static that it all but disconnected the phonecall. So, I've learned my lesson. No longer will I be swept away by small, tiny and cute little tech gadgets from kitschy executive toy companys.

Once I returned the Sharper Image model (Against the Store's policy)I went across the street to our local mall and checked out the "Cell Booth" kiosk which sells phones from all cellular phone companies and offers a pretty decent selection of accessories. At this point, I realized I was going to have to raise the bar a little bit and probably spend a little more money if I wanted to stay away from the cheap little bluetooth models with the interchangeable plastic faceplates and crappy designs...

Sony Ericsson HBH-GV435a
Price: $49.99
Battery Life: 8 hrs talktime / 180 hrs standby
Range: 10 METERS (according to manual)

So I walked out with this model from Sony Ericsson. A very nice over-the-ear style headset (almost like a traditional hearing aid) with great rubberized arm for bending around your ear and an earpiece that swivels in about an 80degree angle to accommodate a comfortable placement inside your ear. Typically, from what I've read online, this headset retails for a lot more in a lot of places. And, my particular box had been repriced 3 times with a starting price of $149.99. So I figured I was getting a significantly higher quality headset. The unit charged in 2 hours and paired instantly with my iPhone. I made a quick phonecall and recieved a call with no problem. The controls are a little tricky to get used to since the buttons are located at the top of your ear. But sound quality was very good. Actually, impressive. There was no delay and noise cancellation was beautiful. I was thrilled. Until it dropped it's first call.

I was sitting at home and had the headset out and my phone rang. So I put the headset on and answered the call. We talked for a few minutes and with no warning, the headset stopped responding and I realized that the headset had not turned off, but had reverted back to my iPhone. I continued the call with the handset and just chalked it up to a fluke. Later on, while I was with my kids at the Santa Claus parade, I experienced exactly the same thing. A few minutes in and the audio goes out and goes back to the handset. So, back to the kiosk we go.

Nokia BH900

Price: $49.99

Battery Life: 8 hrs talktime / 180 hrs standby

Range: 10 METERS (according to manual)

Back we went to the kiosk. After really liking the quality and style of the Sony Ericsson model, I was really tempted to just exchange for the same headset. But, I didn't want to risk having the same issues with a new headset. So I opted this time for a slightly larger headset from Nokia. The BH900. This retailed originally for $99.99. It features a sliding boom mic and the headset itself hangs over your ear without sitting inside. I am not a fan of this particular style, so right off the bat I was apprehensive. The size was a bit of an issue too. This is not the small headset that I've been attracted to. This unit looks more like a mouse gnawing on your ear. As much as I'd like to tell you how the unit performed, I can't. When I plugged the headset in to charge, I got a green light. According to the manual I should have seen a red flashing light indicating charge mode. After more than two hours of being plugged in, I still had a green light. I unplugged the headset and pushed the power button. Nothing. I tried replugging in the headset, tried a new outlet, nothing. I was able to get a flashing green light if I plugged the headset in and pushed the power button. But as soon as I unplugged the headset, it went dead.

So, now I am 0 for 3. I am considering going for another price boost (to $99.00). I will post more on this story as I try to find a working and decent functioning bluetooth headset.

Brabus Motorcycle!

Brabus is a company that specializes in tuning already amazing cars (Maybachs, Mercedes) and making them even more amazing (But mostly faster). Lately, they have expanded into pimping out luxury yachts and specialized vehicles (law enforcement or mobile offices for the elite). But I was very surprised to see this parked at my local Starbucks.


As it turns out, the bike's owner is runs an ad agency. The agency was contacted to do some creative marketing for the Brabus company. The campaign centred around a vehicle that brabus would never manufacture. And so this bike was created. Apparently, the only one in existence. With a top speed of 300 mph.

I captured these pictures with my iPhone. The owner is a fan of Brabus products (and owns others). I didn't get too indepth taking pictures with the bike (and blurred the owners license plates). But it has a very "naked" design concept. Bare handlebars and foot operated break pedals. Speedometer is mounted between the oversized (but necessary) gas tank and the handlebars. Everything is made out of carbon fibre. Also, not in the picture is a Nitrous Oxide cannister on the ride side of the bike near where the rider's knees would be.



Any readers with knowledge of these types of bikes are welcome to comment. I really don't know a lot more about this particular bike (engine size or actual horsepower). I only got to chat with the owner a few minutes. But I did get to hear him start the bike and pull out of the parkinglot. The engine sounded much like a tuned Ferarri or Porsche revving at high RPM's. Not throaty and deep like a harley and not high pitched or whiney like a japanese crotch rocket. Very much in between.




That's all I got. Hope to see some comments and thoughts.

Marley Coffee

I came across something the other day that nearly melted my brain! Readers of this blog (if there are any left!) probably already know of my love for all styles of music (although Reggae is pretty dear to me) and you definitely know of my coffee addiction and love for all kinds of new and different coffees. Well, this changes EVERYTHING!

It turns out that Rohan Marley, a child of Reggae Legend Bob Marley has opened his very own plantation under the Marley name. "The Marley Estate sits atop the Blue Mountains of Jamaica, long revered as the region with the world’s most desirable coffee beans. Rohan remembers his grandmother drying their wild coffee berries in the sun, hulling and roasting them for her own cup of coffee each morning. Marley Coffee is determined to deliver that same intoxicating aroma and rich, smooth flavor into every cup that bears the Marley name. Marley Coffee offers a unique line of single origin and blended coffees. We produce and source the finest beans from the top growing regions in the world; Blue Mountain Jamaica, Central America, Indonesia and the birthplace of coffee, Ethiopia Yirgacheffe. Our ITAL Coffee's are certified organic and sustainably grown." - www.marleycoffee.com

WHAT?!! I can buy coffee from Bob Marley's son? How crazy is that? To say that I'm excited about this is a grand understatement. We are planning to order some this week!

Rohan Marley currently offers five different blends each with unique names all befitting of coffee from the estate of Jamaica's most famous!

Jammin' Java Organic Bold Full City Roast."Sultry, smoky, sweet, and yet unexpectedly smooth brew will leave you wanting more. Full bodied with traces of earthy overtones, dark chocolate berries that produce a zingy acidity and rich lingering finish." - www.marleycoffee.comMystic Morning Wakeup Medium Roast. "This rich but snappy coffee is medium to full bodied with wonderful acidity. Aromas and tastes of cocoa, spice, cedar, cinnamon and cooked pumpkin gives you the perfect morning kick." - www.marleycoffee.com

One Love Organic Ethiopian Yirgacheffe. "From the birthplace of coffee, One Love’s floral aromas unfold with hints of blueberry, cocoa and spice with a medium body and bright acidity. It tantalizes the palette leaving a profound cherry finish." - www.marleycoffee.com

Lively Up! 5 Bean Organic Espresso Blend. "Our exquisite 5-bean espresso is dynamically balanced and rich in body. Its dense, abundant taste leaves a long, savory finish with flavors of cocoa, candied fruit and buttery caramel notes. Enjoy as espresso, drip or press." - www.marleycoffee.com

Simmer Down Organic Swiss Water Decaf. "Aromas of cocoa, nutmeg, star anise and spices of the West Indies fill this cup. Simmer Down reveals chocolate, and smoky tastes with great body and mild acidity leaving a peppery finish." - www.marleycoffee.com

If you're a music fan or coffee drinker, you owe it to yourself to check this out! If you get some before I do, Please!!! post a comment with your review on the coffee you purchased and what it was like! As soon as we get our order I will be putting a full review of each blend on this blog.

Stay tuned! In the meantime, if you'd like to order some Marley Coffee click on the links to go directly to their online store!

1500 Records and a New Blog...

For those who don't know. I started this year without my Dad. He passed away boxing day (december 26, 2008). It was very unexpected and he was quite young (at 60) to leave us so soon. However, we were very blessed to spend quality time with him throughout the Christmas season and as a family who trusts in God, we also rest knowing that he is now without pain and suffering and that someday we will see him again.

I have recently begun the arduous task of converting my Dad's vinyl collection of over 1500 titles onto CD/Hard drive. I started this last night figuring that it would take me most of this year due to my schedule and family responsibilities. I came across a few gems that I would like to post here. So I will begin posting some of his old Southern Gospel and a few of his classical/Orchestra albums on this blog.

Keep your RSS reader locked to that blog for albums as I complete them.

More on this later.

Jeff.

Muppet Kits At FAO Schwartz!!!

Just noticed this via one of my favorite tech/gadget blogs. Starting in February, F.A.O. Schwartz will allow you to design and create your very own Muppet! Using either the online Muppet creator (at F.A.O. Schwartz beginning in February 2009) or in the form of a workbook/kit, you will be able to choose from physical features (nose, eyes, hair, clothing, body shape, head, etc.) and make a unique muppet character that you can either have shipped (3-5 Weeks) or you can take your gift card to the F.A.O. Schwartz store in New York City and have it made on the spot! At only 130.00, for a 16" rod and arm muppet, this is pretty amazing! I think I will have to add a custom muppet to my collection in the new year!

Reuben Turns Into The Hulk

iPhone Observations

After a couple weeks, I have a few things to say about the iPhone. First, Apple nailed it with the world's best convergence device. Let's be honest. It's a phone, but it does so much more. I find myself thinking of it as a tablet computer. In fact, I sometimes get frustrated when I can't do things I can normally do on my powerbook and then I have to remind myself that it's my phone?!

The Camera...
The camera takes great pictures for a 2MP camera, and better still, the iPhone's display shows the pictures off like they were taken on a high end SLR. Beautiful color, great clarity. I have found myself resorting to this camera more often than Carolann's 7MP Sony.

The GPS...
The fact that Apple saw fit to include this in the 3G was special. This little GPS receiver kicks serious tale! I have put it to the test numerous times and found it to be 100% on the nose every time. Since TomTom and TeleNav have already made waves in the press stating that they are already running versions of their voice navigated GPS software on the iPhone. Rumours of Apple's major OS update (2.1) on the iPhone suggest that it will add directional awareness to the Maps application which would make this a very viable reality. Apple is really going to put a large dent into the dedicated GPS market when something running on their phone is equally as good, not to mention all the extra integrated features that come along with the iPhone.

The Phone...
I haven't noticed much in the way of any big improvements over the actual phone itself. It is very clear sounding, has nice tone and great noise cancelling...but so did my Blackberry 8100. What I am missing so far in this department is voice dialing....which is kind of a novelty, but is really handy when I am rocking a bluetooth headset. The bluetooth side of the phone is genius. Apple has added a prompt when the phone rings (if your Bluetooth headset is activated) that asks you if you would like to take the call on your headset, speakerphone or on the phone itself. This is genius for anyone who has woken up to the phone ringing and grabbed the phone and yelled "Hello...HELLO" into the phone only to see the headset flashing away on the nightstand.

I WOULD like a slightly louder ringer, but I imagine this could be fixed with a different ringtone as well. The other issue I have is I am not overly impressed by having to purchase my ringtones in the Apple Store. I expect an app to come along shortly to alleviate this. I was able to make a pile of pretty sick ringtones on my blackberry using Audacity and just add them whenever I felt the need.

Battery...
It just plain sucks compared to most smartphones. My Blackberry 8100 would forever even with heavy usage. However, the iPhone has packed a ton of new (very power intensive) features that the BB 8100 didn't have, and so for this, I can mostly forgive the battery issues.

The iPod...
Brilliant. Wide screen movies look stunning, music sounds great and I love having a spare 8gig ipod along with my 80gig Classic in case I have to step out of the house and the kids are falling to sleep listening to the lullaby playlist. Only one added feature I would like to see here....The ability to purchase songs on 3G through the Music store. Currently, you have to be connected to Wifi.

Now....Here's what I would love to see for Apps...

Wifi/MAP Mashup...
I would love an app that whenever a wifi network is detected, it would prompt me (or do it automatically) to save it's location (GPS coordinates) on a map so that the next time I am in that particular neighbourhood, I could pull up the Wifi overlay and see where all of the open Wifi networks are located. Brilliant? Yes.

A.D.D'ers Lifesaver...
Since you can already pull up a contacts address info and view it on the map from your contacts list, how about an application that allows you to enter an appointment into iCal (with complete address information and time of appointment) and have iCal display a reminder that notices your current GPS coordinates and the coordinates of your appointment destination and then tells you...."You have an appointment at __________ location, In order to be on time, you must leave in 5,10,15 minutes...or RIGHT NOW!". I can see this saving my bacon many times over!

Any thoughts?