Electronics

Many photographers don't realize how important a fast, quality memory card can influence their workflow. Not only do quality memory cards typically operate faster, but they are also demonstrably more stable. Imagine losing an entire day's shoot to memory card corruption! It happens all the time.Many individuals simply look for a good deal, or perhaps just want to limit their shopping to cards that match their camera's maximum write speed. After all, what's the point of paying extra for a card when your camera can only write data so fast, right? Don't forget, writing is only half the process. There's still the reading of that data! After filling up that slow 16GB card with pictures from your day at the beach, for instance, you get home, pop the memory card into the reader and wait…and wait! Instead of getting to edit your pics quickly, you’re stuck staring at the upload progress bar that just seems to be sitting still, like it’s almost mocking you. On the other hand, with a faster memory card the reading part of the process can be cut in half or sometimes much more.The process by which manufacturers produce flash memory has become more dependable over the years and the chances of corruption seem to have gone down significantly in that time. However, corruptions certainly still happen often enough for you to be mindful of the possibility. Case in point,  I borrowed a memory card to complete a wedding, got home, and a large portion of the photos on said card were corrupted. What a nightmare that was! You can do your part to help mitigate this possibility by keeping your memory card clean, dry, and stored in the recommended temperature range. Another thing you can do (and perhaps the most effective) is purchase a quality memory card by a reputable manufacturer sold by a reputable dealer as counterfeit memory cards are more common than you might think. Stick with a dealer with good reputation for providing authentic products; if the deal looks too good to be true, well, you know the rest.You’ll also want to consider that a high quality memory card will more than likely last you for the rest of your photography career and they can also take a beating. There have been several anecdotal stories of people finding memory cards lost over the side of cruise liners or river rafts that have been recovered working many years after they were lost! Although you may initially wince at the price, consider that a smart memory card purchase can mean you won't have to buy another for a very long time, if ever again for that matter.If I might suggest, buy the largest you can afford. In just a few years time that 16GB card you buy today will quickly become tight on space if you ever eventually decide to mix video with your photography. Even so, you'd be surprised at how quickly a 16GB card fills up shooting 20MP RAW files. With as competitive as the market has become, it doesn't cost much more to jump up a size or two compared to a few years ago. Take advantage of that!The best memory card for camera in 2022 listed here were chosen because they’re from reputable manufacturers. With an established history, you can be better assured that a card made by certain manufacturers will not only last but will also not corrupt your data as these cards are proven reliable. These memory cards are also chosen because at their respective price points, they represent the highest performance cards you can buy. If reliability is the most important metric, performance is the second most. No one wants to wait around for the camera's buffer to empty or data to transfer any more than they have to. Finally, these cards are chosen because they utilize special features like Error Correction Code (ECC) that can help eliminate errors during data transfers or special shock absorbing coatings to better ensure reliability during everyday use. Some even ship with data recovery software to get back those files you might accidentally delete.

Many photographers, especially those just starting out, tend to overlook the utility of the humble monopod. It's a shame really, because monopods can solve many common photography issues tripods simply can't. For instance, at many tourist attractions including high-trafficked museums or historical buildings, tripods are prohibited. It's just not safe to splay out the legs of a tripod in the area where a lot of people are walking, especially with their attention often away from in front of where they’re walking. However, monopods are often allowed because they don't interfere with the flow of pedestrian traffic.Often, with cameras pushing ultra-high usable ISOs, you only need something steady to rest the camera to get a sharp shot of a dimly lit interior versus locking it down on a tripod. If you’re shooting a long telephoto lens at a sporting event and the weight of the lens precludes hand-holding, a tripod would be overkill; however, such a situation is perfect for a monopod. Many outdoor photographers who hike to interesting shooting locations well off the beaten path enjoy specially made monopods which double as walking sticks. Talk about two birds with one stone!Many people choose to put heads on top of their monopods, but this is strictly optional. Specially designed monopod heads can increase the usefulness of a monopod or make the monopod easier to use. However, they can also add significant weight to the unit so decide for yourself if the trade-off is worth it.The monopods on this list were chosen because they’re sturdy, the absolute most important metric for any monopod; when you lock these units, their mechanisms stay locked! These monopods are also made with lightweight materials for easy transport because what's the point of carrying around the weight of three legs if you can only use one? Finally, these monopods are all exceptionally well made because nothing so negatively affects the user experience like getting to a location you may never visit again only to have a pivotal component suddenly break. Rest assured, the best monopod in 2021 on this list will provide years of reliable service.

Rings flashes, sometimes stylized as "ringflash" by manufacturers, are extremely popular in fashion and portrait photography and have been since their inception in the 1960s since photographers appreciate them for their unique lighting profile. If you ever see a well-lit portrait devoid of facial shadows and catch lights centered on the pupil, it might have been taken with a ring flash.Ring flashes are known for their ability to make "shadowless" images, even though they do actually produce shadows. In fact, another tip off that the image was show with a ring flash is a noticeable dark outline around the entire subject when they aren't far from a backdrop or background surface - that's the shadow! They do, however, eliminate almost all of the shadows on a face when used in portraiture. This is one of the reasons they remain so popular among professional fashion shooters when they want a model flatly lit.Another reason portrait and fashion photographers use ring flashes is because ring flashes create specular highlights which are bright spots caused by reflected light. You see them all over shiny objects when a bright light is pointed at them. Ring flashes create a unique specular pattern or shape that many fashion photographers find appealing.Let's not forget to mention, ring flashes give a very desirable catch light, centered right ont he subjects pupil. It's a very striking effect! You commonly see this effect exaggerated in beauty product ads with the model's face close up. It can often makes eyes pop all the more. Macro photographers also find ring flashes to be an essential part of their kit. Since a ring flash is typically mounted flush with the front of the lens, the lens won't cast a shadow on the image, which ruins macro shots.Many ring flashes can even take modifiers to further change the quality of light they produce making them flexible and adaptable to a variety of artistic lighting styles.One caveat of note, however, is that since a ring flash is mounted so close to the lens, when a portrait subject looks at the lens they are also looking at the flash. Indeed, one of the cardinal rules of off-camera flashes is to get them AWAY from the lens, such as with a flash bracket. Ring flashes defy this rule in the most severe way and this close flash-to-lens proximity will very often cause red-eye, on top of the drastic shadow behavior. Be prepared to remove unwanted red-eye in post production when using these types of flashes. Good quality ring flashes are dependable and will last you a very long time. Ring flashes also offer a platform to grow and change styles thanks to light modifiers.The ring flashes listed here were chosen for their predictable light quality. You don't want to spend a lot of extra time monkeying with color temperature fixes after-the-fact in you can help it. These best ring flash in 2022 are also extremely well-built and should stand up to the rigors of repeated use, either in the studio or in the field. These flashes also offer unique options or modes that make them good tools for their intended purposes, like portable battery packs for fast-paced location work or perhaps TTL functions that allow you to work faster.

If you need or want to nail exposure the first time, an oft overlooked tool in this day of ubiquitous built-in meters, is the handheld light meter. Not too long ago a handheld meter was essential to every professional photographer's workflow. That's not so much the case anymore as camera manufacturers have done a good job integrating accurate light meters into their cameras. But, no matter how good they are, there are limitations to metering reflected light that cannot be overcome with a built-in light meter. That's where dedicated, handheld light meters come into play.When a photographer meters a scene from the camera, they are taking what is termed a reflective reading. Depending on the scene, this could include much more light information than simply what falls on the subject, up to and including extraneous light or objects near the subject that could confuse a camera's reflective light reading. Modern photographers get around this problem by "chimping" the exposure, that is, they take a picture at a given exposure, judge the result, then make changes and try again. And again. And sometimes again.For many professionals, trial and error is not an option. Not to mention, it just doesn't look professional. If the client is present on the shoot it probably will not instill confidence in the photographer's abilities to see the constant guessing and correcting. A handheld light meter can eliminate this guesswork.Handheld light meters measure what's called incident light. This is the light as it falls directly on the subject at the subject's position. It doesn't get confused by other brightly color objects in the frame and it doesn't adjust itself to light sources that emit light that doesn't hit the subject. It's takes a true reading of the light that the meter then uses to generate a measurement to render the subject perfectly exposed. It can do this on the first try, not the fourth.Listed here are the five best handheld light meters for photography. They are chosen because they are highly accurate, which is the most critical metric for any light meter. These light meters are also highly customizable, allowing photographers to change meter settings for a variety of situations including video or complex lighting setups. Our selections also have models or optional accessories that further increase their usefulness, like changing out the radio to trigger flashes from specific manufacturers, like Broncolor and Elinchrom, or add Pocket Wizard ControlTL support. Check out our top picks for best light meters in 2021.

Digital compact cameras are some of the most popular picture-taking devices today. These devices range from simple "point-and-shoot" models to more advanced offerings that offer DSLR-style creative control. We’ve included the top picks from the most popular segments, factoring in criteria such as performance, versatility, ease of use, and value.With these factors in mind, we've made a list of the most versatile cameras on the market. Also below is a buying guide that will help you pick out the right camera for your needs- read on!

One of the most important bits of kit in any landscape or portrait photographer's bag are neutral density filters. These filters block some portion of the light entering your lens, allowing you more creative freedom and, if used right, maybe better images. If you want to use a large aperture for a shallow depth-of-field on a sunny day or slow the shutter speed to capture the swaying grass in an open pasture, you'll probably need a neutral density filter. In videography, neutral density filters are essential to preventing overexposure in scenes where there is too much light to manage with the video's fixed shutter speed.Neutral density filters come in many styles, like square or rectangular slide-ins, and some even offer a graduated density pattern, perfect for holding back the sky's brightness against a darker horizon and foreground. Popular makers of slide-in graduated neutral density filters are Lee Filters, Singh-Ray, and Formatt-Hitech.Of the varied styles that neutral density filters come in, screw-on is by far the most popular. By foregoing the need for expensive and bulky foundation kits, like those that are needed for square and rectangular slide-in filters, screw-on filters are compact, light, easy to use and cost effective. Most of the makers listed here offer several slide-in neutral density options, many of which are just as exceptional as their screw-on counterparts.When purchasing, be sure to get the right size filter for the lens you intend to use it on. One particular money saving strategy would be to purchase a filter for the largest lens you own and use step-up adapters for your smaller lenses. In this way you can use one filter, adapt it to all your lenses, and save money over purchasing a filter for each size lens you own.The best solid screw-in neutral density filters listed here are chosen because they do not introduce unsightly color casts, which can be very time-consuming, if not near impossible, to correct in post processing. They are extraordinarily well-made selections, using the finest glass or optical resins and all but one has rings made of brass, a material that resists binding with other surfaces. The filters here also offer state-of-the-art usability features like front-threading and multi-coatings, which reduce flare, help with cleaning, with some even being scratch resistant. Checkout our top picks for the best neutral density filters in 2022.

Tripods are invaluable camera companions, allowing for clear photos at longer shutter speeds, eliminating camera shake, and making shooting more comfortable in general. Just as cameras come in a variety of different categories, tripods are available in different types, sizes and builds. Lightweight, inexpensive tripods can be best for point-and-shoot cameras while larger, professional cameras need sturdier tripods with an enhanced weight capacity. For best overall tripod, we considered the product's size in relation to its weight capacity and height range as well as durability and features. Not sure exactly what all those features mean? Checkout our top picks for best tripods in 2022.

Projectors are used for a wide variety of purposes, ranging from high-end home theaters to business presentations and classroom applications. Depending on their intended use, projectors can vary in their technology, style, and price. We’ve compiled lists of some of the best projectors in 2022 currently available while considering different budgets and performance needs. Although we’ve included several high-end models, we’ve kept ultra-expensive projectors off the list in favor of one’s which are more realistic for use in the average home or business. If you’re new to projectors and need some pointers on what to look for, be sure to also check out our buyer’s guide below.

Smartphones and Skype phones have become increasingly popular as of late, which means fewer consumers are using landlines to communicate. This has led many electronics manufacturers to re-think the cordless phone. Designed for portability and convenience, cordless phones were once at the cutting edge of technology; but in this highly advanced world of newer and smaller devices, the cordless phone has gone through some changes to keep up. The basics are still there; consisting of a base station that broadcasts calls and charges a wireless receiver, but these units now offer similar call quality and features of many smartphones. There are also multiple receiver versions where you can keep two or four cordless devices at various areas of the house for convenient pickup of a call and intercom availability between handsets. When you're looking for a cordless phone, there are a number of things to look for when you're doing your research. Check out the various features of the phone; starting with talk times, Caller ID, speakerphone, conference, and intercom capability. Many of the latest units can expand the number of handsets per line all the way up to ten or twelve, even if you originally purchase the unit with only one, two, or four handsets at the outset. Some more advanced models have Bluetooth capability to attach headsets or sync cell phones to the phone for communication purposes and to transfer contacts between a mobile device and your cordless phone. Most cordless phones are pretty self-explanatory to use; but consider the interface and all of the extra buttons you'll need to push, especially if the base has a built-in answering system. Many of them do now, as well as integrated recording functions to record conversations with varying storage length times on both. We've done much of the research for you already and found a myriad of options for your cordless phone needs. Peruse our lists below for some of the best models available at the moment.

For consumers seeking to "cut the cord" from high monthly cable or satellite bills, there’s the option of a digital television adapter or digital-to-analog converter box. These are television tuners are designed to receive the free broadcast signals transmitted over the airwaves mainly from the major networks and some local or regional stations.These converter boxes are affordable options for bringing home network programming at a one-time price versus a monthly charge. Some of these boxes come with recording functions, performing much the same way as a DVR does. Some models can even support multimedia files like digital photos, videos, and music.We've chosen the following picks because of their connectivity options for hooking them up to a variety of devices, as well as their ability to record shows to a USB flash drive or an external hard drive. Each of the following converter boxes also offers basic features such as program guides or parental controls. Take a look at our list of the best digital to analog converter boxes in 2022 here.

If you have an elite home theater system and favor heavy-duty protection for your equipment, consider investing in a good power conditioner. These devices constantly monitor the voltage coming through the power lines to ensure your entertainment system receives a consistent flow of 120 volts. Fully equipped models can also double as surge protectors to provide an added layer of security. These units are generally on the bulky side, so we’ve selected models which require minimal space accommodations. While these power conditioners may seem unreasonably expensive, they do offer maximum protection against over- and under-power situations that can potentially damage equipment. Each of our recommendations excels at voltage regulation while offering a wide variety of features to suit the needs of various home theater systems. Check out our top picks for the best power conditioner in 2022 below.

Buying an HDMI cable is actually much easier than you may think. Just be sure you're buying an HDMI cable and not some other cable instead. There can be some confusion when it comes to selecting cables for your home theater equipment, but one thing is for certain: HDMI is currently the most popular audio/video cable standard. It offers the best quality picture and sound possible, simultaneously, all in one cable.Most HDMI cables on the market today will work just fine with high-definition content. The ones that are labeled as high-speed cables can handle greater bandwidth capacities at a mandatory minimum of 10.2 gigabits per second, though a claimed bandwidth of 18 Gbps is more commonly encountered. With 4K material having just about replaced 3D as the most data-intensive format, manufacturers now offer a wide range of options that support all current and previous content.HDMI cables on our list offer gold-plated terminals to prevent corrosion, utilize high-conductivity materials such as copper (or silver in some cases) for a clean signal transfer and contain shielding materials to prevent outside noise or distortion from radio frequency and electromagnetic interference. That said, the digital nature of HDMI cables means that they either work or they don't. Save for unusual circumstances such as 50-foot-long cables that travel through walls, the most common symptom of an HDMI cable failure is a blank screen. For typical home use, we recommend going with the lowest-priced options without sacrificing build quality. These are just a few of the factors that went into creating our list of what we think to be the top HDMI cables on the market. Read on to pick one out now!

Earphones are by far the easiest and most cost-effective way to listen to music. Earphones offer not only the conveniences of portability and durability, but also tend to represent a higher value for money, in terms of absolute sound quality with regards to sound resolution and expression of detail, than full-sized headphones. They lack the more refined aspects of sound presentation that can only be reproduced by proper speakers or open headphones, like a sense of 3-dimensional space, but some high-end multi-driver earphones can simulate these aspects very effectively. They also function as multi-purpose listening devices, as they can be used with cell phones to increase call quality and isolation from unwanted noise; some even feature microphones and volume and/or track controls to this end. Some people even use earphones at concerts to help protect their hearing. The earphones in these lists have been chosen as the best for their particular price points and target audience, offering different solutions for casual listeners, audiophiles, studio engineers, and performing musicians, and ranging in price from pocket change to serious investment. The best way to shop for an earphone is to try as many of them as possible; if that is not an option, it's generally wise to set a price limit, and pick the best earbuds in 2021 for your listening style and preferred genres. Also keep in mind that, while sound is usually the most important feature, how much you enjoy the earphone is also going to depend on how happy you are with the amount of money you spend; if you pick an earphone from these lists, and feel that you've been ripped off, odds are you are either spending more than you personally wanted to spend on earphones, or your pick is missing some feature or characteristic that you were expecting, but perhaps didn't take into consideration. There are two different types of driver technology used in modern earphones: dynamic drivers and balanced armatures. Most earphones, and indeed most headphones and speakers, use a dynamic driver, a moving diaphragm that vibrates in its entirety in order to produce different frequencies. They tend to be the most effective at producing pounding low frequencies, and higher-end dynamics give bass a tactile presence and texture that very few balanced armatures can match. Most of the earphones discussed here use dynamic drivers, unless otherwise noted. Balanced armatures are a more complex type of speaker, having only very small moving parts, most widely known for their use in hearing aids, cochlear implants and other aural-assistive technologies, applications for which their small size makes them ideal. However, as armature technology has evolved, the quality of sound they can reproduce has increased drastically, and they are now featured in the majority of high-end earphones due to their tonal accuracy and decreased distortion. Balanced armature drivers tend to perform best in the mid and high frequencies, generally producing cleaner, more well-defined notes than dynamic drivers. Newer, more expensive earphones tend to feature balanced armature drivers, and sometimes quite a few of them; our pick for Best High-End Earphone, the Shure SE846, utilizes four balanced armature drivers per side. Some modern earphones, like the K3003i, feature a hybrid design, using a dynamic driver to handle the bass frequencies and incorporating balanced armatures for mid and high frequencies. These earphones have been hand-picked as the best value for money and overall performance; I feel confident that anyone following the buying guidelines above and taking time to carefully consider their choice will be very satisfied with their purchase.

The primary market for Bluetooth speakers is the portable segment: portable speakers are becoming more and more popular as people have access to a wider selection of music through the internet and social media, and everyone loves to share their tunes. Whether you're looking for something basic to make and receive calls, or want something a little louder to take to the beach or park, there are Bluetooth options for nearly any portable application.We've sifted through the chaff and found the best portable speakers that can be had for $100 or less. The products listed here have been chosen based on their sound quality and overall usability, as well as features like battery life, durability, and portability. They are listed here in order of absolute sound quality, but remember that the most expensive is not always the best for everyone's needs, so be sure to consider how you will be using your speaker, and making your selection accordingly, before shelling out your hard earned cash! In the end, all of the best wireless speaker in 2022 listed here are safe buys, and will make an excellent companion for sharing your tunes using your laptops, cellphones, or any gadget while taking them with you on the go.

As the most easily obtained physical source material for music, as well as the most popular format for high resolution playback, CDs are still indispensable for truly serious listeners, and a CD player of some sort is typically at the center of any home sound system. Whether serving double duty as CD and DVD / Blu-Ray player in a home theater, or feeding a dedicated amp in an audiophile headphone rig, a CD player is the heart of most audio systems, and finding a good one can be tricky. Sure, you could go to Best Buy or Radio Shack and pull the cheapest one off the shelf, but it’s probably not going to last, and likely won't sound too great either, assuming you are using quality speakers or headphones. These lists serve as a guide for buyers new and old, for home audio/theater enthusiasts, audiophiles, or even just regular people who want a product that is made well and sounds good. The products listed here have been chosen after hours of careful listening and research, and should provide excellent solutions for most, and a jumping point for further research for anyone who is new to audio as a hobby.For more information on what to look at in selecting the best CD player in 2022, We have listed below the best cd player available for you to help you decide what product is best to buy.

The importance of center channel speakers is a matter of much debate among audio enthusiasts. For those not prepared to invest in a full system, or using their speakers in a smaller room, money may be better spent on higher-quality floor or bookshelf speakers or a good 2.1 system if extra bass is desired. On the other hand, no truly high-end system is complete without a good center, which helps vocals and dialog remain clear over powerful subwoofer bass and enhances the dimensionality of sound in larger rooms and home theaters. Ultimately, this is a matter of preference, and anyone looking to invest in a good system should try it before buying if at all possible (looking up a local HiFi shop is the best place to start). But, with today's online shopping market, it is often easier to buy online. That's why we have reviewed the best center channel speakers of 2022 for you to consider. When browsing, always take into account the size of the room the system will be used in and your budget. With those two things in mind, along with the compatibility of your existing devices, you will make a worthwhile purchase. The speakers listed here are recognized for their price to performance ratio, as well as their ability to lift vocals above the mix to create a more realistic, 3-dimensional sound. Pick your price range and enjoy! Check out our favorite picks for the best center channel speaker in 2022 below.

A subwoofer is the one piece of audio equipment that will lift a simple sound system out of the ordinary, and can make or break the most expensive HiFi system. Even the cheapest subwoofer will take a pair of basic bookshelf speakers and turn them into something that sounds like a real sound system. A truly high-end subwoofer, on the other hand, is the difference between simply "good" sound and true realism. Good low frequency response is an absolute must for a home theater system, making dialogue richer and more immediate sounding, and bringing much-needed depth to sound tracks, explosions, and ambient noises. Most music requires solid bass response too: everything from orchestral classical music to dubstep sounds better when bass notes are fully fleshed out and given their real atmospheric textures by a dedicated subwoofer. Even a loan acoustic guitar benefits from extra LF, making plucked strings sound much more immediate and realistic, and adding rich reverb to lower notes. Subwoofers, like speakers, come in all shapes, sizes, and designs. Some are optimized for outdoor or car use; others are ported to give the most powerful output possible, or sealed to maintain tightness and evenness of response. And price does matter; here, perhaps more than anywhere else in home theater audio, you get what you pay for. Spend under $100, and you're really just adding extra thump. Jump to $200 or so, and we're talking real slam with decent extension and easily distinguishable multi-tonal textures. Around $500 will get you deep, tight, punchy bass that can shake windows and, in a smaller space or with multiple woofers, produce room lock, that famous sensation of a room being filled by bass waves, pressurizing the air and creating a truly immediate, tactile experience. Cross the $1,000 mark, and you are in true HiFi territory: expect serious LF vibrations and the kind of sound that will put anything you've ever heard, including movie theaters and high-end concert hall systems, to absolute shame. All in all, if you aren't willing to shell out at least half the price of the rest of your system for a subwoofer, you won't be doing your speakers justice, but better any subwoofer than none! This is perhaps the most important piece of any sound system, and if you aren't putting serious consideration into which one is best for you, you'll be shortchanging yourself and anyone who hears your system. We've compiled the best subwoofers in 2022.

Floor speakers are the most important aspect of any home theater system; realistically, they're the only speakers you could use on their own and still wind up with respectable sound. Some folks might try to get away with just a center channel like a sound bar, but it's really not the same. Some tower speakers can create enormous sound fields that approach that of full surround sound, which a lone center channel or sound bar could never accomplish. Best floor speakers in 2022 come in all shapes and sizes, and are designed for a variety of listening styles and intended uses; rather than looking solely at ranking or price, remember to consider how and where you will use these speakers when reading reviews. I'm sure the Focal Grande Utopia EM or Sound Lab U-1PX would sound great no matter where you put them, but they are designed for large dedicated listening spaces; smaller speakers like the Triton Two would probably sound (and look) much more appropriate in a master bedroom or smaller den. There are two main types of floor speakers: dynamic and electrostatic. Dynamic speakers are your traditional air-moving cones with a diaphragm, they account for virtually all "normal" speakers. Electrostatic speakers utilize a charged field within which a very thin membrane vibrates to create sound waves; the resulting sound is very fast and can produce an extremely large soundstage with peerless imaging, but they have a smaller sweet spot, meaning that you should point the speakers directly at your intended listening position; the sound won't be as realistic or spacious from outside the sweet spot, which is usually big enough for 1-3 people. Dynamic speakers have a sweet spot, too, but it is usually much larger, and they sound better outside the sweet spot than electrostatics. Electrostats are usually bought by audiophiles who use their speakers mostly for music, but with a supporting subwoofer they can sound great with movies, too. If you've never owned electrostats, please try to demo before buying, as they sound noticeably different from dynamic speakers and are considered to be an acquired taste by many. The speakers that comprise the following lists range from excellent budget models, which deliver great bang for your buck, all the way up to peak HiFi setups and the kinds of speakers used for mastering in the world’s most renowned studios. I advise most first-time buyers to start low; many non-audiophiles won't feel the need to spend more than a few hundred dollars to get very satisfying budget models, and I would bet that most people will be happy with speakers like the Pioneer FS-52 without feeling the need to upgrade. That said, you get what you pay for, and if you’re ready to shell out a thousand or more, you'll get serious audio that will make your local movie theater sound muddy and undetailed, and if you decide to roll with the big dogs and spend over $5,000, you're getting into the realm of professional-class sound and will probably never want to go back. In the end, every speaker listed here is great for its intended purpose, and no matter what your budget, there are speakers out there for everyone. Have a good read, and prepare for a big package to show up on your doorstep soon!

Building a custom home theater system can be a daunting task for those without extensive experience with audio equipment; indeed, even with hours upon hours of research, sorting the wheat from the chaff can be a challenge in an industry filled with buzzwords, confusing terminology, and sheets filled with graphs and numbers that seem like they would take a college degree to understand. Luckily, some of the best names in the industry, well-known or not, offer easy solutions for those without the experience or time to research a system piece by piece. Ranging from 5.1 to full 11.4 setups and everywhere in between, manufacturers everywhere between the lauded Bowers & Wilkins and JBL, to little-known audiophile favorites like KEF, and budget-wonder brands like Monoprice offer full surround-sound systems that are built and tuned specifically to sound great as a single, cohesive system. This not only makes things easy for you, the buyer, it also ensures that the whole system will sound great together. However, not all who try succeed, of course, and those listed here have been chosen for offering superior value for the dollar and the ability to blend well as systems; no one component takes the stage over others, the subwoofers integrate well, and everything just works. Not all systems are built equal, and you do usually get what you pay for, but when researching please keep in mind that audio products are highly susceptible to the phenomenon of diminishing returns: the higher you climb in the audio stratosphere, the smaller improvements you get with every jump up. The difference between the Monoprice 5.1 system and an entry-level offering from MartinLogan will be noticeable to anyone with ears, but going from Klipsch's Reference Series up to the Palladium probably won't be worth spending 10x the price unless you are a very discerning listener (or if you have money to spare and really like the look of the Palladiums; they are gorgeous). It's also very important to consider the size of your space; larger home theaters won't be served well by a system with satellites instead of floor speakers, and putting the JBL Synthesis Everest in a master bedroom is going to yield incredibly disappointing results, unless you just want to blow your windows out! Be sure to consider all of these elements when making your purchase to ensure that you are satisfied with the money you spend, but above all, remember to enjoy your new system!For more information on what to look at in selecting the best home theater speakers in 2022, We have listed below the best home theater speaker available for you to help you decide what product is best to buy.

Headphones are easily the most popular way to enjoy music, and since the dawn of the portable cassette player, not to mention the more recent dawn of the MP3 player, the market has been growing remarkably fast. This is great for enthusiasts, consumers, and professionals alike, because more competition means better products, lower prices, and more innovation. With the ever-increasing popularity of portable media devices, coupled with the new technologies that arise from their development, the market has taken an explosive upturn in just the last 4 years, and there are now headphones for just about any kind of activity imaginable, catering to a wide variety of listening styles, feature sets, and form factor preferences. Headphones comes in all different sounds, sizes, form factors, and prices, and before even beginning research, it is best to decide exactly what you will be using your headphones for; this is a factor that should influence your choice just as much as your preferred sound or price range, because ultimately it will have just as much importance in whether or not you are satisfied with your purchase. Choosing the right headphones means knowing how big you are comfortable with them being; there are some excellent Bluetooth headphones, and the Bluetooth feature makes them incredibly portable, and yet I would seriously hesitate to recommend it to someone who will use their headphones mostly for jogging or exercise, because they are enormous! Likewise, we would hate for someone planning to do most of their listening at home to compromise the level of fidelity they are able to experience simply because they liked what they heard about headphones listed in the Running section. Setting a price limit for yourself can be very useful as well. Audio products are subject to drastic diminishing returns at around $100-$300, depending on how acute one's hearing is, and only those with well-trained or exceptional naturally endowed hearing abilities will be able to notice differences in levels of detail and refinement between headphones above this price range. Many enthusiasts and audiophiles begin their lengthy, often expensive quests for the perfect headphones by doing exactly what you are doing right now, and while we always encourage people to try as many products as possible, we would hate for someone to spend more than they need to just to find a sound they can be happy with. All that being said, audio preferences are, first and foremost, subjective, and ultimately what matters most is that you enjoy your music, so if you find a sound you really like, stick with it! Most headphones, even those described using similar terms, or possessing very similar frequency response curves, sound very different when the sound hits your ears, so if you've got something that really sounds good to your ears, it's usually a good idea to either keep what you've got, or perhaps upgrade within the same line of products. Again, we always encourage people to try as many products as possible, especially before buying one, but if you find yourself 99% satisfied with a particular product, it's usually futile to go back out and find something totally new in an attempt to correct the one tiny flaw you have found in an otherwise great headphone. So please, read on, and enjoy! Remember that the best way to learn about headphones is to hear them, so be sure to look up your local HiFi or audiophile store and pay them a visit to see what models they have in stock; the people who work at such places are usually very knowledgeable, and may wind up being an even more valuable resource to you than anything you read on the web.For more information on what to look at in selecting the best headphones in 2021, We have listed below the best headphones available for you to help you decide what product is best to buy.

The digital pocket scale is perfect for a wide variety of uses, though they seem to be most popular in the kitchen, the jewelry shop, and with small businesses. These diminutive scales often measure weights of up to 11 pounds, and can shift between various units of measurement from the commonplace, such as grams, pounds, or ounces to the more specific like pennyweights or fluid ounces.You want your scale to have tare capabilities, which allow you to reset the scale to zero to accommodate external surfaces or multiple elements on the same surface. You also want an easy to read display that breaks your readings down to simple increments.If you're in the market for a digital pocket scale, give these five picks for best digital pocket scales in 2022 a look, each chosen along the following criteria including size, units of measurement read, amount of weighing modes, functionality, ease of use, ease of calibration, extra features, and price.

Did you know the average person accumulates roughly $600 in loose change a year? With that much coin, you're going to want a good coin sorter and these units range in price based on sort speeds, coin capacity and denominations accepted. Some will take one dollar coins, while others only handle the main four which are quarters, dimes, nickels, and pennies.If your pants pockets are jingling every day, give our list of best coin sorters a look. These picks have been chosen based upon the following criteria including their hopper capacity, bin and wrapper capacity, the coin denominations accepted, their ease of use, and price.

Despite the popularity of smartphones and voicemail, there's still a demand in the marketplace for answering machines. These products have evolved from the clunky, micro-cassettes recording units into convenient digital units perfect for today's high-tech lifestyles. But even with these modernized advancements, there are fewer companies out there offering good options on answering machine systems so finding a quality product such as this can be a challenge for some.The best answering machine options out there should feature good sound quality, time/date stamp, lengthy recording times, and remote message retrieval. Luckily, we've done the research for you and have determined the five options currently available. These best answering machines have been chosen based upon the following criteria including their sound quality, quantity and types of features, their ease of use, and affordability.

There are some things you just don't go without on the water. Among them, a good Very High Frequency (VHF) handheld radio which is your primary means of communication and, quite simply, the most important safety device you can have aboard your vessel at all times. Most major maritime rescue agencies, such as the U.S. Coast Guard, actively monitor VHF transmissions to assist boaters in trouble. These radios are more reliable than your standard cell phone since cell towers are non-existent in open water.When looking for a good VHF radio, you want it to come with a back up antenna and power source in case the boat is disabled. Portability is important since you want to be able to carry the radio with you in the event something happens or you're away from the helm for any period of time. The radio should also be waterproof and float as well since if it takes a dive overboard, you want it to keep working and avoid taking a dive to retrieve it.Keep an eye on battery life at all times since Murphy's Law states the worst emergency will arise when your radio is low on juice. Try to minimize disaster with a fully charged radio at all times to allow for more talk time and less charge time.Before you hit the high seas, get yourself a good VHF radio. Chances are you'll find the one that's right for you among these five best picks listed below. They've all made our list under strict selection criteria including each unit’s portability, power options, extra features, ease of use, reliability, durability, and price.

Quite possibly the second most popular entertainment appliance behind the television, the radio is often the go-to solution for music and information whether you're on the move or hanging out at home. With so many different types to choose from, it's really a matter of deciding on the reason why you need to buy a best radio in 2022. If you're looking for something to listen to in your home or office, you're probably going to want to consider a good table-top model. These often plug into the wall (though many certainly run on batteries as well) and they remain stationary on a table or desk, supplying hours of listening pleasure. If you want something to take with you; portable radios are small, compact units that get good reception and can broadcast your favorite station from the pocket of your coat or even the palm of your hand. Perhaps you want something for your morning routine, then a shower radio can give you all the news and music programming along both ends of the AM and FM dial in a compact unit that fits right on your showerhead. These are waterproof products that can withstand the steam and wet conditions of any bathroom. Maybe AM and FM aren't your thing and you prefer something that gets you internet channels as well, there are radios for that, offering alternative programming whether it be from a subscription service or just a signal that can be picked via Wi-Fi. Jobsite radios go even further; built for rugged, high impact work environments, these units offer full AM/FM fare in addition to a list of other uses like charging phone and power tool batteries, AC power outlet availability, and compatibility with MP3 players and mobile devices for more sound source options. Weather radios are similar to a jobsite radio in that they too can power and play alternate devices, but these radios come equipped with NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) band stations that provide up to the minute weather alerts and safety notifications to keep you informed in the event of a major emergency. Whichever kind of radio you're looking for, we've got five of them that we feel are the products worthy of your hard earned dollar. Check out these lists below to read more about what's available and why it's the best there is at the moment.

If you’re a consumer that is looking to get the full experience from your home theater system, or looking to add to your current set up, you should consider a pair of high fidelity bookshelf speakers. A pair of bookshelf speakers can be a great addition to your home theater system, but can also double as studio monitors in your recording setup. Bookshelf speakers can serve as your standalone sonic source in your home theater setup or play a support role in 5.1 and 7.1 surround sound setups. In home theater setups with a .1 means that they include an LFE channel (A channel that is dedicated to only the subwoofer to reproduce low end), so your bookshelf speakers are used to provide detailed highs, full mid-range, and some low end information. In a standalone situation you would be looking for your bookshelf speakers to reproduce all sonic information highs, mids, and lows (to the best of their ability). Which is why I have populated these lists with bookshelf speakers that show versatility and strengths in both additional support and standalone situations. No matter the purpose of the speaker it is always difficult looking through an endless variety of manufacturers, designs, prices and engineering advances. I have compiled the following lists of speakers focused on versatility; to suit the taste of audio professionals and consumers alike. Checkout our top picks for best bookshelf speakers in 2022.

When you're in the market to buy a projection screen, there are a few things you'll need to decide before you buy. Do you want a screen that you can mount to your wall or ceiling, or do you want something that is portable and can be carried with you? Once you know what you're looking for there, then you have the option of a manual or electric screen. These are pretty self-explanatory; while a manual screen is your only option if you're looking for something portable, the mounted screen gives you options of a pull-down spring-loaded manual option or an electric screen that lowers and rises with the use of remote control or wall switch.After you've figured that out, you'll want to consider the fabric material of your screen. The two most important things to think about are gain and viewing angle. These two items are related to one another; the higher the gain of your screen, the more your viewing angle is minimized. Gain measures the brightness of your screen and how much it reflects or absorbs the light coming from your projector. Most screens are rated around 1.0-1.3 gain, but some screens are rated lower and are best in dimly-lit rooms. The brightness of your screen affects your viewing angle, in that depending upon where you sit in front of the screen, the image can be darker or brighter. The image can be much brighter in the middle of the projection and darker on the edges, so if you're seated to the side you'll be seeing a dimmer picture.Finally, you'll need to decide what size screen you need. A square screen of 1:1 ratio is good for projected presentations, while a 4:3 video format ratio is great for projecting television and computer monitors. Then there's 16:9, which is the accepted ratio for letterbox and widescreen. HDTVs are the same ratio and are best for high-def TV and motion pictures. Read on to see some of our picks for the top projector screens on the market now!

DJing has undergone a recent change from the days of two turntables and a mixer. Controllers have arisen as an all-in-one practical way of playing music. However, the fact of the matter is DJs still widely use turntables to rock a party. Popular software programs often require a hardware box that is meant to bridge the gap between the digital and analog world. Turntables and mixer are connected to a hardware box, bridged to the laptop, and ultimately out through the speakers. This makes the turntable a musical mainstay, not just to play your favorite jazz or classic rock record. And of course there are DJs who strictly play analog! Some prefer to stay averse from the changing, sometimes trendy technologically advancing scene and keep their style close to the original style of DJing. The best turntables in 2022 listed were chosen because they are all durable, feature modern upgrades, and are direct-drive, meaning the platter and spindle are directly connected to the motor which requires less maintenance. Furthermore, consistent match in speed between spindle and platter is needed for the demanding nature of scratching and beat matching that entails applied pressure to the vinyl. Anti-skate technology popularized by Technics have been mastered by other brands such as Reloop and Stanton. Wider ranges of pitch control give DJs unprecedented control over mixing and sampling. Combine this with MIDI capability, an auto beats per minute counter, and USB connectivity in some models, and its apparent that the wave of new features are staggering and promote new avenues to creativity.

Directed at audiophiles who specifically want a superior home audio setup, stereo receivers are somewhat of a niche item due to their lack of video support. However, those who do not need or want an AV receiver will appreciate the ability to consolidate multiple audio devices, with many models including inputs ranging from iPods to phono inputs for turntables. Many modern stereo receivers have similar features to AV receivers, including support for Bluetooth and AirPlay. On the other hand, most stereo receivers do tend to be on the more basic side, with the focus being on discrete amplification for high-fidelity sound and flexible audio output options for expandability. We've compiled a list the best stereo receivers in 2022.

Cutting the cord has never been easier these days. You no longer need to pay those hefty and ever-increasing monthly cable bills in order to receive your favorite high definition television programs. Just like back in the days of analog television, a variety of channels are broadcasting high definition content over-the-air for anyone with an antenna to pick up. You won't have unlimited access to cable channels like ESPN, MSNBC, or Food Network, but many of those networks now have "On-demand" versions of their content on streaming devices such as Roku or through your laptop or tablet.Some of these networks may charge a small subscription fee, but considering the low, onetime cost of these HDTV antennas you're still ahead of the game. They can give you access to the regional affiliates of the major networks like CBS, NBC, and so on, in addition to local access channels and nightly news.We've chosen five of the best HDTV antennas in 2022 for when you're ready to cut the cable, providing variety in terms of both range and price. Although there are antennas available that have longer reception range than the ones we've included, we've opted for popular antennas that meet average needs. We've ensured that they all have excellent signal strength and picture clarity, with easy installation and setup.