iFi GO Pod + Symphonium Meteor Review

iFi's new Bluetooth DAC/amp, the iFi GO pod, promises to deliver the best-sounding true wireless in-ear headphones in the world. But can it really live up to that claim? Let's take a closer look alongside the Symphonium Meteor review.

Comfort: Comfort-wise, the connector (the 0.78 mm 2 pin) that connects the DAC/amps & the IEMs... isn't the most pleasant feeling on my ears when it comes to long-term use. My tolerance runs thin in under 2 hours... which is unfortunate. They try to deliver a fit that allows the IEMs to fit the ear to sit the correct way and still maintain form for the DAC/amps to rest behind the ear without shifting. It isn't necessarily felt near the top back area where sunglasses would rest, I feel applied pressure in the front of my ear and the mid back where the DAC/amps rest.

If you aren't familiar with previous reviews of the past, I don't have much tolerance in regard to applied pressure on my ears... so mine may be a bit more sensitive than some of you. By the way, don't wrestle around with comfort in terms of the ear tips, I recommend finding the size that fits you best... right out of the box.

Build Quality: When it comes to the build quality of these headphones, I can certainly see the effort put into making the GO pods a next-level experience... starting with the GO pod case. The case is nice and sturdy, and as seen in the unboxing... they've added a nice touch with the lights in the ceiling of the case to shine down on the product. (Look at iFi getting all fancy on us.) The lights that you see off to the left of the case showcase the remaining battery, which is charged via USB-C. 

This isn't exactly a case that you're going to carry around... despite the name, because it will completely stuff a pocket and become a pain in the... thigh. You're better off maintaining the quality and extending the life of this case by either leaving it in the area you frequent the most to wear headphones or... grab a bag for transport.

In terms of the GO pods, you get a textured finish that almost resembles leather to a degree, and the touch control area has a metal plate along with the upper area where the Bluetooth LED is located. The DAC/amps also feel like they can take a licking also when it comes to durability. While children can wear these GO pods, I wouldn't recommend having them connect the MMCX, the 0.78 mm 2 pin, or... the Pentaconn Ear (unless they're good with intricate things). The pins that connect these to the GO pods even concern me because I didn't want them to bend when connecting the proper ones. Connecting to the GO pods was the biggest challenge, even if it has the area for you to get the connector in... the pins have to go in properly. Outside of that, once it's in... it's in the GO pods, and... you can breathe easy when it comes to the actual Meteor IEMs because you can slide the pins right in.

Speaking of the Meteor IEMs, they aren't stuck on Bluetooth or a wired connection... you can connect these to the GO pods or use the 4.4BAL wired connection as seen in the unboxing. There are no issues connecting either, so you can swap bath and forth with no worries. The body of the Meteor IEMs is a nice durable design with no buttons, you have the pins for connecting, along with the ear tips... and that's it.

Oh yeah... there's no way I can mention Symphonium Meteor IEMs without mentioning the cases that these things came in. It's not just the packaging around the beautiful exterior case with the soft internal material (seen in red above), you also have a freaking... hard case inside that with a hard snap lid, along with soft padding outlining the interior + a burlap bag to put that in (this almost feels like an Xzibit meme). This is no joke... and I loved every minute of this. That's how you protect your product and help customers maintain the life of the product.

By the way, the GO pods are IPX5 water resistant, so you can take direct spray from any direction if (let's say) you went for a jog and someone's sprinklers caught you off guard because it's spraying towards the sidewalk. I won't say any names.

Audio Quality: When it comes to the audio, I can't argue it and how crazy clean it is, but... I wish I had more control over the volume. I had to crank up the volume on my phone + PC + TV in order to get a more suitable experience. 60% was low, while 80% came in at a more neutral level that I'm adjusted to hearing. If I put the volume down to 28%... it may as well be at 2 to 3% (I can't hear it), and I highly suggest that iFi get a designated app in place on both phone & PC for these. The goal is to enjoy the product... and I think an app would truly help, especially if the GO pods are the base for these various IEMs to connect to. I didn't run into this issue with the wired connection, which points to the GO pods.

* I used a QR code for the set-up video to make sure I wasn't doing anything wrong, but "The playlist does not exist"... yet.

The iFi GO pods are a decent size with what's on deck, and they can be used with a variety of IEMs (like the Meteor). They feature a Qualcomm aptX HD codec and support up to 24-bit/96kHz audio. The iFi GO pod also has a built-in battery that provides up to 10 hours of use.

You can also find Qualcomm Snapdragon Sound on board the GO pods. This technology is described as an optimized chain of audio technologies and software to enable seamless, immersive audio across mobile devices and wireless audio accessories. aptX HD & aptX Adaptive Bluetooth codecs capped off at 24-bit/48kHz prior to QSS... which serves up 24-bit/96kHz (studio recorded quality).

I can say that the sounds didn't mesh... you have noticeable clarity. I was able to enjoy individual sounds a lot more than with some headphones that can't exactly unpack everything. The lows were beautiful... as long as I didn't have the volume down, they were clear, and highs were also marching to the drum of my enjoyment (i.e. a character breathing in the background, the wind of a helicopter flying, clanking sounds from cups, etc). I didn't get a chance to play games with these just yet, but what I did experience got a thumbs up, especially with the bass bringing it alive. I think one of my favorite things was listening to the bass from the helicopter being so close in a particular Ghost in the Shell scene.

I had the pleasure of going through my library and grabbing a few things for my listening pleasure:

Ghost in the Shell - The New Movie

Ghost in the Shell 2 - Innocence

Silk - Tonight (Album)

Lori Williams - I Can't Help It

Keybeaux - On Point

Keybeaux - Automatic

Gerald Albright - What you see is what you get

Gerald Albright - G Wiggle

Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania

As far as calls go, no issues with clarity, thumbs... up! I was able to be heard, and vice versa... which was crispy clear.

In the iFi GO pod box:

iFi GO pod L+R

Charging case

Ear Loops (L+R) - 0.78mm

MMCX, Pentaconn Ear

USB Charging Cable

Instruction card

Quick Start Guide

In the Symphonium Meteor box:

Meteor IEMs

4.4BAL audio cable

3 sets of ear tips (red and black S, M, L)

*Maybe it was for the review, but there was an additional ear tip case with 6 sets of ear tips inside.

Storage case (red and black)

Snap lid storage case (orange) for the Symphonium Meteor IEMs to rest in

Price: Price-wise you can get the GO pod + Symphonium Meteors for $799. The GO pods are $399 and... the Symphonium Meteors are going to run you a similar price. That's a bit on the high end for the average person, but dedicated audiophiles may find interest in these. My only request to iFi is that they release an app to ensure that we're able to enjoy the product without the need to... pump up the volume.

Comfort 2 (this is based on my personal tolerance level)

Build Quality 5

Audio Quality 4 (Point taken due to the volume issue)

Price 4

3.75 out of 5 Cool Points

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The Wayans Bros.: The Complete Series... Reviewed!

A copy of The Wayans Bros. The Complete Series was provided by Warner Bros for review. My opinions are my own.

The Wayans Bros.: The Complete Series Hits DVD – A Nostalgic Treat for Fans!

The beloved sitcom The Wayans Bros., which premiered in 1995, has finally been released as a complete series on DVD! This five-season set includes all episodes inside a case that you're sure to appreciate, offering fans a chance to relive the hilarious antics of Shawn and Marlon Wayans as they navigate life in the Big Apple alongside their father. The case keeps the DVDs tamed and actually snaps the plastic holders in place, ready for action.

Did you know that Marlon Wayans told the late, great John Witherspoon that he wanted him to play his dad on a TV show prior to the existence of the sitcom? Marlon's wish came true, as John brought his larger-than-life personality and unforgettable one-liners to the role of Pops, making the show even more memorable. #BangBangBang

The Wayans Bros. wasn't just a hit in New York; it resonated with audiences nationwide. I believe this resulted in the facelift we see ushered in with the second season. This is the format most viewers are familiar with as the popularity began to soar. Its blend of slapstick humor, witty banter, and over-the-top antics made it a cultural touchstone for '90s television. People still remember many of the show's iconic one-liners to this day, and it almost feels like an ongoing skit from In Living Color. The portion of the episodes prior to the show's intro actually delivers more of that In Living Color-style content that's usually crazy and over the top. A prime example is when Marlon was supposed to watch the fries being cooked in the kitchen while Shawn was on the phone. Marlon ended up on fire, Shawn looked in the kitchen, saw him on fire, and said he's burning the fries.

If you have a Blu-ray or DVD player, this set is a must-have for fans of Wayans family comedy! The show's humor hasn't aged a bit, but some of the fashion has. Either way, it's a great way to get your laugh on. Plus, it's a fitting tribute to John Witherspoon, who left an indelible mark on the series and the industry. You will find cameo after cameo featured on the show, from The Jeffersons' Sherman Hemsley to Roy Jones Jr., Seinfeld's Phil Morris, comedy legend Bernie Mac, Michael Clarke Duncan, and many more. This will become a trend you can expect throughout the series. This show is very easy to watch, and it was actually Marlon Wayans' style of comedy that inspired younger comedians like DC Young Fly, as it blended humor with relatable life experiences.

While the show declined in ratings ahead of the generational shift of 2000, I feel that it would have held even stronger if there had been a goal to bring the show to a close. This would have allowed more viewers to stick around with the dedicated fanbase to see how it ends, knowing that it's a limited series. Most shows without a set end usually hit this wall where viewers have seen all there is to see and want to move on to something else. I believe that the storyline is better crafted when the mission is set. That's not to say The Wayans Bros. didn't have a strong conclusion while maintaining its comedic charm and wrapping up the show in a satisfying way, but the dots would have connected even more if the plan was to end it after five seasons.

One major disappointment that I have with this set is the lack of bonus content. These are the stars behind In Living Color, Scary Movie, White Chicks, and more! There were no bloopers?! That would have sweetened the pot for the dedicated fanbase, comedians, and fans of comedy. Such a missed opportunity, along with commentary that would have allowed us to fill in the blanks from the surviving cast members. Pricewise, The Wayans Bros.: The Complete Series gives you a trip down memory lane for an impressive $45.99, allowing John Witherspoon's legacy to live on.

Runtime: 50+ hours. Rated: TV-PG

Storyline 4

Visuals 3

Audio 4

Price 5

4 out of 5 Cool Points

 + Blu 

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HexGaming Phantom Controller: Hex Hall Effect Edition... Reviewed!

Many thanks to HexGaming for thinking of our audience this holiday season. The team over at HexGaming wanted to share their recent leap forward in precision and performance by way of the Hex Hall Effect Edition of their HexGaming Phantom Controller for the PS5 + PC + Mobile. Let's dive into what makes this version... even better, after this unboxing:

When it comes to gaming controllers, the HexGaming Phantom has made quite a name for itself. Building on the success of its predecessor, the original Phantom, this new iteration introduces groundbreaking Hex Hall Effect technology that takes the precision up a notch.

Design and Comfort

Right out of the box, the HexGaming Phantom impresses with its sleek, ergonomic design that maintain's the beauty of the original Phantom. The button layout wasn't broke, so I appreciate the fact that they didn't try to fix it... but the back buttons are still something I have to get adjusted to using (I'll get back to this later).

Another touch that I can't forget about is the textured grips that ensure that you won’t lose your hold during those nail-biting moments, a feature that was already commended in the original Phantom. Now let's get into what makes this controller different from the original.

Hex Hall Effect Technology: A Game Changer

The most significant upgrade in the HexGaming Phantom is undoubtedly the Hex Hall Effect technology. This innovative feature utilizes magnetic sensors instead of traditional potentiometers, and the benefits are immediately noticeable:

• 
  Unmatched Durability: While the original Phantom was built to last, the Hall Effect sensors take durability to the next level. Say goodbye to the wear and tear that often plagues standard controllers; this technology is designed to withstand the rigors of intense gaming.

• Enhanced Precision: The magnetic sensors provide a level of responsiveness that's undeniable, resulting in a controller with kickass precision... so you’ll experience smoother movements and more accurate inputs, which is crucial for competitive play. Every flick of the thumbstick translates into the game with greater speed, giving you the edge you desire.

• Custom Sensitivity: One of the standout features of the Phantom is the ability to adjust thumbstick sensitivity. Whether you’re sniping from a distance or racing at breakneck speeds, you can tailor the controller to fit your playstyle perfectly. This level of customization was a nice touch in the first Phantom, but the Hall Effect technology elevates it to new height.

Performance That Delivers

In terms of performance, the HexGaming Phantom continues to shine. The buttons and triggers are responsive, providing satisfying feedback that enhances the gaming experience. The adjustable trigger stops allow for quicker response times, making it easier to pull off those critical in-game maneuvers.

Going back to those... back buttons: The Triangle, Square, X and O buttons that require me to move my right thumb off the... joystick to press them are certainly motivating me put the back buttons to use more often. Shifting those buttons to the back and using my middle fingers for K1, K2, K3, and K4... would eliminate (at least I believe) my need to take my thumb off the right joystick. It's not a biggie, but switching over being able to use those buttons while still aiming at the same time... is a game changer compared to not having the option of those back buttons.

Speaking of joysticks, you get four types for your gaming pleasure. In addition to them all featuring a nice textured grip, you get two regular concave options as well as two concave options that provide extended length + width. You also get a domed regular, two domed extended length, and... a regular length concave thumbstick featuring an extended width surface. Once you place the rubber protector rings on, just snap them onto the controller and dive into the action. Competition wise, if you need to adapt to a situation, you can swap these thumbsticks out at the snap of a finger and get ready for the next match.

Those with their sights truly set on an eSports competition will appreciate the customization options available with the new HexGaming Phantom even more than those of us who love the quality, because... victory equals money!

In terms of competing in multiple genre's, you don't have to worry about reprogramming the buttons either. As seen in the original Phantom, the new version also gives you 6 different (color coded) profiles that you can use for shooters, fighting, racing, etc.

Also, I have to include this: Like in the original Phantom controller review, when it comes to the customization of the controls... the back buttons open the door to those who may have special needs. If you don't have the ability to use the trigger buttons on either side, but... you have access to the back buttons, you can adapt to the situation. So consider this an additional option for everyday or competitive play. Gameplay using the adaptive & digital triggers:

By the way, I totally geeked out over the fact that the triggers gave me haptic feedback me in Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2. This was a badass surprise. You will get this feedback with the adaptive trigger activated, which is also great for racing games too thanks to the detailed acceleration control. On the flipside, if you want to be quicker on the draw in FPS games, switch over to the digital trigger that only requires a 1.5mm trigger pull to set it off.

When it comes to Drifix, you don't have to worry about using your little screwdriver anymore to correct joystick deviations. HexGaming created a device that allows you to calibrate accordingly and eliminate drift to restore full control as see in the video below:

Step-by-Step Tutorial: hexco.gg/T1
Controller Test: hexco.gg/test

Pricewise + In the box:

The HexGaming Phantom Controller Bundle is $259, which includes:

USB-C Cable (by the way, this is a really long cable. Possibly 7+ feet.) Carrying Case Thumbstick Case

This bundle is only $30 more than the controller, which makes this the better deal in my opinion. I'll wrap this up with comparisons to PS5's DualSense Edge controller. It's $30 bucks more than the first party controller, but... here are the pluses:

• It has 2 more remappable back buttons for a total of 4
• 6 Switchable Controller Profiles
• Digital Triggers
• Built-in Drifix Modules vs Replaceable Analog Stick Modules
• Hex Hall Effect Joysticks
• 8 Interchangeable Thumsticks vs 6 with DualSense Edge
• Premium Performance Grips
• Weight is 295g vs 325g

Certain gamers looking at pro controllers may want to consider this option in terms of accuracy and the ability to customize even more so than Playstation's DualSense Edge, but when it comes to eSports players... the investment is worth considering to take your game to a whole new level (for the win).

Quality 5

Comfort 5

Customizations 5

Price 4

4.75 out of 5 Cool Points

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