Initial DVD-5820 Portable DVD Player with 5.8" Screen
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $219.99 -- our price: $169.94
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

With Initial's slender, compact DVD-5820 portable DVD player you canwatch your DVD movies, listen to your favorite MP3 CDs, and even watchslideshows of your digital photography--all while you're in your home orout and about. The DVD-5820 features an 5.8-inch widescreen (16:9 aspectratio) thin-film-resistor LCD, and compatibility with JPEG and KodakPicture CDs, as well as HDCD-encoded CDs. Commercial CDs encoded withHigh-Definition Compatible Digital technology number in the thousandsand play on any CD or DVD player, but players with HDCD decoding chipsderive an extra measure of low-level resolution from these discs.

The player also offers built-in stereo speakers for headphones-freelistening. Both Dolby Digital and DTS 5.1-channel surround-sound signalscan be routed through the player's digital-audio output (through a.125-inch minijack-to-RCA coaxial digital-audio cable, not supplied) fordirect connection to a full-featured audio/video receiver. The player isfirmware upgradeable to accommodate future formats, and it comes withbuilt-in anti-shock technology to help maintain smooth playback whenyou're on the go.

A composite-video output simplifies hookup with most TVs. Playbackoptions include frame-by -frame slow motion, 2x and 4x zoom, screensaver/power-saving function, CD programming, parental locking, andmultiple-angle viewing (with applicable discs). Supplied accessoriesinclude an AC adapter, rechargeable battery, user's manual, and a remotecontrol. Headphones are not included. ... Read more

Features

• Includes rechargeable lithium battery, car adapter, and remote control
• Portable DVD player with 5.8-inch TFT LCD screen and anti-shock technology
• Composite-video output, Dolby Digital and DTS 5.1-channel surround output (for use with compatible AV receivers)
• Plays DVD-Video, CD, CD-R, CD-RW, MP3 CD, JPEG CD, Kodak Picture CD, and HDCD-encoded CD
• Offers random play, search play, track programming; firmware upgradeable

Reviews (29)

Good product - poor customer service
I've owned this unit for about 2 years. The only problem I've had is the power receptacle came loose. I work on mechanical and electrical devices quite often, so I found it easy to disassemble and repair that. I eventually purchased a DVD recorder to make back up copies for movies I wanted to take on trips and for my home movies. The unit was not able to play any of the DVD-R or DVD+R formats I tried. I called the customer service people at Initial asking if there was a firmware upgrade I could acquire that would make the unit compatible. (Firmware is the operating system and is actually software that is written to a memory chip on the player). The person at Initial was polite, but decidedly very unhelpful in a smug way (smarmy). He told me the unit is no longer manufactured and that they do not have the firmware. Thinking I might also have a corrupt firmware, I asked if I could get just the original firmware; either just the firmware or send the unit to them to have them install it. He told me THEY DON'T EVEN KEEP THE ORIGINAL firmware. I had to laugh. I know it's a little piece of code that will fit onto a floppy disk. If the R&D people don't keep that, they don't have anything with which to use as a base for the next version of players or to fall back on if the next version fails. Not only that, but to those wanting to purchase one, this means INITIAL CANNOT FIX THE UNIT IF IT BREAKS. I asked him "So, in reality, you guys don't want to help me, right?". The lack of a reply was enough for me. Other than that, I've put the unit through a lot of abuse and it is still going strong!

Got a good one, after a try or two
I got this player as a gift, prior to deploying over here to Iraq.Fortunately, the giver provided a gift receipt.The first one simply stopped working after a the first day.So, with about 3 days left before i flew, I returned it to the store at which it was purchased, and they cheerfully replaced the entire unit.The second one worked wonderfully, but the battery would not charge once depleted.Another trip to the store, where again, they replaced it.Since then, though, I've used the player and new battery for the entire 14-hour trip over here (recharging at each stop, and using a portable power converter on European power) and have used it in the dust and grime here for some time.This one works great!Exceptional picture, good sound, and can even hook up, easily, to almost any display device I've found.I'd recommend it, but not to purchase on-line.Get one from a store that can provide you with immediate replacements for anything that goes wrong.

Outstanding value for the money
We took a chance and bought this product late 2001.We never heard of the company but decided to take a chance.For over a year this DVD player was used EVERY day for at least 12 hours.It has been used on several trips running for over 10 hours non-stop each way as well as visits to clinics, hospital stays, and family visits.

The only problem that I had with the player was that the pole for the power jack (AC/DC) gets loose after a while.Just a minor design flaw (lack of better support for the pole) that really is a matter of the USER taking care when moving the unit when the AC adapter is plugged in.I managed to fix this short myself by taking the unit apart and heating up the solder area under the pole with a soldering iron.

So, I am surprised to see so many negatives for the Initial products overall.When we bought the unit AudioVox, SONY, Panasonic, RCA, and others were at least 50% higher in cost.The DVD player is STILL going strong.The hinge for the LCD screen is still working very well.I highly recommend this product for overall quality, reliability, and durability.Only reason it did not get 5 stars is because of the minor design flaw mentioned above.I found the same type of power jack on other brands so I would not be surprised if they also have this problem.My two year old and his little sister was the main audience for this unit the first two years.We managed the use of it for them most of the time but kids are curious and we often found our son trying to learn how to use it.He learned how to use it and you know that kids his age are not gentle so I have to emphasize the unit's durability.

Picture quality and sound are VERY good.After all, this is a portable DVD player - not a full size progressive scan player that is connected to a $500+ AV receiver and an HDTV capable monitor.By the way, I have connected it to a TV and home theatre system several times, great picture and sound - amazed family and friends.

DVDs that would not play in a non-portable player worked fine in this one.I do hope that this helps - I did four months of research before buying the product.I am going to buy the 7" unit so the adults can watch a movie while away from home as well. ... Read more

Asin: B00007B8UD
Subjects:  1. dvd58, dvd582, dvd-58, dvd582, idm5820, idm-5820    2. travel, small screen, handheld, travel size, 5820, imd5820    3. idm582, idm-582    4. Portable Digital Versatile Disc Player (Personal DVD)   

Sony MDR-G57G S2 Sports Street Style Headphones with Reflective Ear Piece
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $29.99
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Editorial Review

These Street Style headphones employ the comfortable and stable behind-the-neck design. They have a non-slip design, making them ideal for exercise or for a walk to the corner market. To encourage safe night-time activities, the MDR-G57Gs come with a reflective ear piece. They are also water-resistant, completing the necessary checklist for full-function sports headphones. The behind-the-neck style is also appropriate for urban and casual wear; remember that with this style you can wear a hat while wearing the headphones. The MDR-G57Gs were designed for extended wear, and, weighing in at under two ounces, you may indeed forget you are wearing headphones.

Sony has installed several technical features to the headphones to ensure a quality listening experience. The thirty millimeter drive units are large for portable headphones, and deliver deep bass, low distortion and a wide frequency response range (16 - 20,000 Hz). Sony's Acoustic Turbo circuit achieves high sonic output by utilizying sound chamber and duct technology. Ferrite magnets give the headphones solid energy at a minimal size and weight, while the oxygen-free copper cord provides high conductivity and minimum noise. The gold-plated stereo mini-plug makes sure that sound is transported fully and accurately. The gold-plated treatment also helps resist corrosion and supports the headphones' high conductivity and low noise. The five foot long, single-sided cord is plenty long for active pursuits. Replacement earpads are included.

What's in the Box
Sony MDR-G57G headphones and replacement earpads ... Read more

Features

• Features Sony's acoustic twin turbo circuit for improved efficiency
• Behind-the-neck sports headphones are non-slip
• Reflective ear piece; water resistant
• 30 mm diameter driver for delivery of deep bass
• Acoustic Turbo circuitry for quality sound delivery

Reviews (25)

Get replacement earpads -
You can get replacement earpads at Sony website... for 2.95 each. Cost me 8.95 including shipping for a set. Can't seem to get on Amazon.com or I would have. PN is 499432401. https://servicesales.sel.sony.com

Great Headphones
Yes, the price is a bit high, but these are high quality headphones.The single line out the left ear is the best and reduces any chance of catching or tangles. The sound is unbelievable, best from any headphones I own.I use them with my DJ MP3 player for great sound quality from high quality MP3s.

As for comfort, I can see why people don't like them, but I use them in the gym and for my ears, they fit nicely with little to no discomfort, depending on how they are sitting on your head.

If your like me and can't wear ear buds cause they fall out, these are a great alternative for high quality audio.

Great Headphones For Running
i bought these several months ago, and i have nothing but good things to report: these headphones are sturdy, waterproof (and sweatproof!), and have that nifty reflective patch on both ear pieces. they never slip off my head, and i find the sound quality is surprisingly good. with some adjusting here and there, i can manage to wear squash glasses or sunglasses with these, though having all that stuff behind my ears is the not the best case scenario. basically, these headphones turned out to be much higher quality than i was expecting. great product! ... Read more

Asin: B000066CCU
Subjects:  1. Headphones    2. Accessories (Accesssory)    3. Headphones (Headphone, Head Phones, Phone)   

PocketPro Multipurpose Tool
Average Customer Review:
Tools & Hardware
list price: $17.99
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Reviews (1)

Great hand held tool
This tool is great. When putting together lawn furniture to kids toys. The hammer part is great for putting on those little plugs over the screws. Only need the one tool to do it all. ... Read more

Asin: B00005OU6P
Sales Rank: 16912
Subjects:  1. Hand Tools    2. Multi-tools    3. (Swiss Army Knives)    4. (Knife)    5. (Multitools)    6. Clearance    7. Home    8. Tools    9. Gifts   

Metrokane Rabbit Wine Opener Gift Set, Silver
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen (15 April, 2002)
list price: $110.00 -- our price: $49.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

A great gift for a wine lover, this powerful, award-winning tool effortlessly extracts the cork from any wine bottle in 3 seconds with simple lever action. Handles with comfortable rubberized padding easily clamp onto a bottle's neck; the lever drives the tough worm into the cork with a push and then pulls the cork out cleanly with a simple pull. Releasing the cork involves the same action, only with the handles clamped onto the cork. Ruggedly constructed of polycarbonate and reinforced nylon, the cork puller has the heft of a fine, precise high-tech tool and comes by its name, Rabbit, because it resembles a bunny's head. Metrokane corkscrews are independently tested for 20,000 cork pulls; tests assume replacement of the spiral after 1,000 pulls.

This model of the Rabbit has a velvety, silver finish, as do the four tools accompanying it. The tools include a squeeze-and-twist foil cutter to strip away the foil covering a cork, a drip-stop ring that fits onto any size wine bottle to prevent stains on table linen, a sealer that twists so tightly into any size bottle's neck it preserves even Champagne bubbles, and a "wax whacker" that flips the wax tablet off a wine cork. Also included is a replacement worm--the installed worm wears out after 20,000 or so corks. The Rabbit and tools all fit snugly into a padded storage case with a hinged lid. The cork puller carries a 10-year warranty against failure. --Fred Brack ... Read more

Features

• 10-year warranty
• Striking, easy-to-use, powerful device pulls wine cork in 3 seconds
• Ruggedly constructed of polycarbonate and reinforced nylon
• Foilcutter, drip-stop ring, bottle sealer, wax remover, and extra worm included
• All items fit into padded, hinge-top storage case

Reviews (11)

Don't be fooled
If you are looking for a well functioning opener, this is not it!Much better "rabbit" type openers are on the market.First is the fact that it is mostly plastic, not metal, so don't be fooled by the metallic appearance in the photo.When opening the first bottle, (with normal cork).I noticed it was much more difficult to use than the old one (other brand) I had.It required extensive pressure to insert the cork, to the point I thought the flimsy plastic handles would break.Then I opened a second bottle with a plastic cork.This almost broke the opener when using upward pressure to remove the cork from the bottle.And after finally getting the cork out of the bottle, (it took two people), the cork would not come off of the screw.I had to manually untwist the cork from the opener.Save your money, spend a little more and get a real opener.This one is nice to look at but not functional!Real Junk, and not cheap!!

Amazing
I was somewhat skeptical about purchasing an $89 corkscrew set, but the reviews led me to try it.After more than 30 years of trying all different types of corkscrews, destroying too many corks, having trouble with pieces of cork in the bottle, and struggeling with many a cork, I will never have to complain about any of that again.The Rabbit is absolutely amazing and flawless in its design and function.Yes, even on the first try, I was able to open a bottle in about 3 seconds, including the cork removal from the screw! Your friends willbe amazed as will you.I am glad that this is designed and MADE in AMERICA so that I am not sending my money to some overseas sweatshop.Buy it.You will not be disappointed.

Easiest corkscrew ever!!!
I could *not* believe my eyes the first time I saw someone use a Rabbit. I've shredded SO many corks and even broken bottles trying to get corks out. I've tried so many different kinds of corkscrews (and the two-pronged non-screw-type cork-pullers), and I've been all kinds of frustrated. I'm a big and strong guy, and I've still been frustrated at how hard some corkscrews are to use.
Enter the Rabbit. It's hard to visualize from the picture, but it is SUPER-EASY, once you figure it out.
1) Flip the top over, away from the cork, raising the screw (sometimes called the "worm")
2) Place the two handles on either side of the bottle-neck, positioning the tip of the worm over the cork.
3) Squeeze the handles together to hold the bottle.
4) Bring the top handle up and over, which pushes the worm into the cork -- so easy you can't believe it.
5) Take the top handle back to where it started, and the cork is out! No muss, no fuss, no cuss!

They say removing the cork from the worm is just as easy, but it's not quite. The method for this is:
6) Bring the top handle back over, as if to put the cork back in the bottle, only without the bottle there.
7) Squeeze the side handles around/on the cork.
8) Bring the top handle back away to remove the worm, while holding the cork with the side handles.
That works, but the side handles don't always squeeze tight enough to hold the cork there.

Okay, the ad says "3 seconds". I put closer to ten seconds, plus five more to remove the cork (if it grips right), or 30 seconds more if it doesn't grip the cork to remove it. Still, this is the easiest and best corkscrew I've ever used, and I'd say it's WELL worth the price.The "gift set" is nice, but personally, I don't think it's worth the extra price compared to just the Rabbit without the gift set.I do, however, recommend the Metrokane "Save-the-Wine" Vacuum Pump.

Oh, one more thing -- I've heard it doesn't work well on the new plastic-style "corks", but I haven't tried it. ... Read more

Asin: B000063K7G
Subjects:  1. Kitchen    2. Dining    3. Barware Accessories    4. Clearance    5. Bar Tools    6. Bar Accessories    7. Barware    8. (Bar Ware)    9. Bartending    10. Corkscrews    11. Openers    12. (Cork Screws)    13. Wine Tools    14. (Cork Pullers)    15. (Corkpullers)    16. Gifts    17. Gourmet Food    18. Wine Products    19. Wine Openers    20. Wine Lovers Gift Sets   

Calphalon Commercial Nonstick Bakeware Collectors Edition 3-Piece Bakeware Set
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $66.00
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Editorial Review

This three-piece bakeware set makes an excellent gift for those just starting their bakeware collection. The large 13-by-18-inch jelly roll pan is excellent for making shallow cakes for roulades; however, the ½-inch sides keep food from sliding off the tray, making the pan doubly useful for foods such as oven-baked French fries and breadsticks. The 8-inch square cake pan (with 2-inch-high sides) is the right size for coffee cake, brownies, or polenta. The two pans are accompanied by a 6-cup muffin pan, ideal for bran muffins or popovers on a Sunday morning.

Just as durable as its cookware, Calphalon's bakeware is made of a extra-thick aluminized steel and has rolled rims reinforced with steel rods to prevent twisting and warping under hot temperatures. A unique two-tone design affects heat conduction and cooks your baked goods to perfection: the silvery gray underside ensures efficient baking time and the darker gray interior protects food from overbrowning. With the double nonstick coating, baked goods slide right out of the pans and cleanup is quick and easy. All the bakeware in this set is oven-safe to 450 degrees F, but should not be put in the broiler or dishwasher. Calphalon recommends using wood, plastic, or coated utensils to protect the nonstick coating. The set is covered by a lifetime warranty. --Cristina Vaamonde ... Read more

Features

• Oven-safe to 450 degrees F; lifetime warranty
• Set includes 13-by-18-inch jelly roll pan, 8-inch square cake pan, 6-cup muffin pan
• Heavy-gauge aluminum construction; rolled reinforced rims prevent warping
• Double nonstick coating for durability and easy release of baked goods
• Two-tone design ensures baked goods stay moist and don¿t overbrown

Reviews (7)

Wonderful baking set!
This set has served me faithfully for almost a year now.I use this pan mostly for the muffin pan as I'm saving my collection of Calphalon for moving into a new house but these pans have been nothing short of miracle workers.
Their ability to release foods is amazing.I dont think I've owned nonstick this wonderful in the past.Though I do suggest using a spray oil on these pans like Pam or Crisco before cooking those bran muffins, I found out the hard way when I forgot to spray my pan that they did release with minimal sticking.

As for comments as to the jelly roll pan warping, never ever put Calphalon in the dishwasher or use it like a cookie sheet, even if it doesnt warp the first time it will warp because it wasnt made to withstand the high temps of cookie baking and dishwashers.But for a good jelly roll or mini cakes (just stamp the cake with a large round cookie cutter for layers) the jelly roll pan performs wonderfully.
The square pan is good, I just dont use it all that much because I dont cook many square items like brownies.

Nice set!
I got this set 3 months ago, and really like it.After using stuff like Ecko Bakers Secret for years (and replacing it every 2 or 3 years), it is really a treat to have quality bakeware like this.These are made really nice, and have a definite weight to them.I've had no problems with warping at all.The non-stick coating is great.I've even made brownies in the 8x8 pan without greasing it, and they popped right out.Be aware that you should not use these under the broiler though because of the non-stick coating.I bought two set of these.I stack mine with old dishtowels in between them to protect them from scratches.

These are not dishwasher safe.However, they wash up in a few seconds due to the non-stick coating.

Superb Bakeware Set - Amazing Value!
The Calphalon Commercial Nonstick Bakeware collection is excellent.I recommend them without reservation.This is a great starter set.Once you use this set you are going to want the whole collection!

One note:you may want to check on your baked goods a couple of minutes early.I have noticed that cakes are done a little quicker in pans with a dark finish.Many newer recipes will indicate the timing for dark finish bakeware.These pans are also a breeze to clean, just a little soap and water and you are done.Wonderful Pans! Highly recommended!

Also, read the Calphalon brochure in the box, if you plan to nest this pan with others make sure to put a paper towel between them to prevent any damage to the nonstick coating.And, this pan is not dishwasher safe.

I wouldn't even trade my Calphalon Nonstick Bakeware for an All Clad bakeware, all my cookware is All Clad and I love it but nothing beats high quality, heavy duty Nonstick bakeware! ... Read more

Asin: B00006GNQU
Subjects:  1. Bakeware    2. Clearance    3. Bakeware Sets    4. (Bake Ware)    5. Baking    6. (Calphlon)    7. (Calaphon)    8. Kitchen   

Nikon N65 SLR Camera Kit w/ 28mm-80mm Lens (N652880KIT)
Average Customer Review:
Electronics

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Features

• Includes 2 3V lithium batteries and zoom lens
• Camera with automatic and manual focus control
• Uses 35 mm film for classic picture format results
• Self-timer, red-eye reduction
• 28mm-80mm zoom range

Reviews (2)

My pictures don't stink anymore!
I've always used cheap 35mm and disposable cameras. Now that my daughter is growing up and becoming more involved in various sports and school activities I've long wanted to have a serious camera with zoom so I can get good upclose high quality shots. I decided to splurge on the N65 after doing lots of internet research and talking to variety of photographer type folks.

The camera itself is very sturdy and solid, but not extremely heavy. I'm able to carry it around in my backpack all day without discomfort. It's easy to load the film in, but the provided instruction book is superb to get you started. It has a variety of manual settings, but I've pretty much only used the auto setting for everything - and just about all my pictures have come out great. Nice and sharp, with rich colors and just so much better looking than my cheapo camera gave me. It's also nice to be able to zoom in on various subjects. I have a lot to learn about this camera, and will need to find a book to learn it all - but as a beginner it has really served the purpose for me, but I know there is much more I can do with it.

A great SLR for beginners and advanced amateurs
I bought this camera four months ago knowing nothing about photography. Now, thanks to my F65, I'm shooting slide films and learning the zone system and continue to amaze ppl with my wonderful pictures. I had a chance to play with the more advanced F80 but besides the faster flash sync offered I'm fully satisfied with my easier-to-manage F65. By "easier" I don't mean any loss in functionalities or features. Advanced features like multiple exposures, depth-of-view preview and auto bracketing are all there inside this compact, light weight body. There's an optional infra red remote for this camera that functions like a cable release which's a must for night and serious photography too. The camera works with all AI and AFS Nikkor lenses. A shutter speed of 1/2000 is more than adequate for all conditions and film pull/push can be achieved by exposure compensation despite the fact that we can't directly manipulate the ISO setting. It's a perfect camera for novices with its automatic modes, and for advanced users with its possible manual settings. The matrix metering is reliable and accurate, the center weighted metering is good for low light or night photography. It doesn't have spot metering, but it isn't necessary anyway as a real professional won't need a on-camera spot meter. So unless you're in need of a faster flash sync for wildlife photography or a more rugged but heavier body, there're really no reasons to go for higher models. ... Read more

Asin: B00005T3SE
Sales Rank: 10104
Subjects:  1. Camera (Cameras)    2. SLR (Single Lens Reflex)    3. Photograph (Photography)    4. Autofocus (Auto Focus)