Showing posts with label Tech. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Tech. Show all posts

1More Open Earbuds S70... Reviewed!


Today, I’m excited to present the new 1More Open Earbuds S70. They look sleek and stylish, but are they worth your hard-earned cash? Let’s dive in and find out... after this unboxing!

Quality

In terms of my initial impression, the box is sturdy. It’s not exactly one of 1More’s premium boxes, but it’s not bad and will protect the headphones even from a firm press from your hands. As for the 1More Open Earbuds S70 case, it has a nice metal finish that’s cool to the touch when you sit it in a cooler room and features a little display window that reveals the headphones. You might question whether it’s actually metal or plastic when you tap it, but put a magnet next to it. It’s thinner than I’ve experienced, but the metal is there in some form and it feels durable enough. The shape of the case allows it to slip right into my pocket next to my wallet.

When it comes to the actual earbuds, they look sleek and are suitable for both casual and business settings (they won't look out of place with a suit either). They have a quality feel when holding them in my hands. Now, let’s get into the... comfort level (dun dun dunnnnn).

Comfort Level

These earbuds get a strong 5 for comfort, even over the 1More Fit Open Earbuds S50. The design allows them to sit on your ears and almost vanish in terms of how they feel. Sometimes, I have to check if they’re still there when nothing is playing. No joke, I’ve taken a series of naps to test these earbuds😏, and over 4 days, one of them came off just once. It actually happened the day I had an awesome dream. I was about to win something after making the baker laugh, and a certain someone woke me up. I totally tried to go back to sleep to see what it was, but I digress.

These earbuds don’t put the weight directly on the top of the ear; it’s distributed nicely. Thanks to the ergonomic earhook design. Nothing goes directly in your ear either. 1More describes it as the Balance AIR+ Technology, but I call it... a job well done. By the way, I didn't find it awkward to wear sunglasses with these earbuds. I've been asked this question several times so far.

The earbuds sit near the opening of the ear canal with no ear tips, which increases the tolerance of wearing them. Ear tips work well for some options, but the need to adjust is real when they're on deck. Plus, sometimes it feels like something might be on them trying to infiltrate your ear. Maybe that’s just me, but something tells me I’m not alone.

Specs and Features

Third up, let’s talk about the specs. These earbuds come equipped with 4 AI ENC Mics for crystal-clear calls... compliments of the minimized background noise. I put this to the test by making a call to a busy restaurant while shopping at a grocery store. I added a last-minute item to my order, and the lady on the phone heard me perfectly, despite my deeper voice. I double checked just to make sure she actually heard me. Spoiler alert: She did!

Other features include:

  • Bass Enhancement for Directional Sound: This feature ensures you get that rich, immersive audio experience.
  • Fast Charge Support: Just a 5-minute charge can give you an additional 2 hours of audio. Perfect for those on-the-go moments.
  • Ingress Protection 5 Rating (IPX5): These earbuds are water and sweat-resistant, making them ideal for a hard workout or a day out in the hot sun. Just don’t go swimming with them; they’re not built for continual immersion like IPX7 or IPX8 ratings. Not that I’ve seen many people swimming with earbuds, but hey, feel free to shrug.
  • Low-Latency Gaming Mode: A game-changer for all you gamers out there.
  • Customizable Controls: Change your tap actions in the app by selecting desired tap functions -
    Both the Right and Left earbud get 2 functions to choose from with 2 or 3 taps.

    My settings:
    Left Earbud 2 Taps = Skip
    Left Earbud 3 Taps = Play/Pause
    Right Earbud 2 Taps = Volume Up
    Right Earbud 3 Taps = Volume Down
    Long press for 5 seconds = Power on (outside of case)
  • Bluetooth 5.3 | Bluetooth Range 10m: Quick and strong connection. These earbuds fought to play audio 4 rooms away from the connected device.

Audio Performance

In terms of specs, the impedance is 16 Ohm, which requires more power than 8 Ohm but delivers more output in terms of bass. The bass can be a bit shy, but you can hear the depth in certain audio experiences. The Tesla-grade magnetic acoustic design is made from lightweight aerospace-grade titanium and soft skin-friendly liquid silicone. The secure fit has allowed me to keep the earbuds in without needing to adjust them throughout the day. That’s probably one of the things I love the most about these earbuds—they fit and stay put.

The sound clarity is based on the dual magnetic drivers and DiamondFlex diaphragms that enhance the bass. These earbuds were also tuned by the Grammy-winning Luca Bignardi.

Back to the sound. The bass is there, but it’s a tad shy until you find the right tracks to flex the ehanced bass. I did deep bass tests, listened to a variety of tracks including the Dolby Atmos test, and played games like Black Myth: Wukong and an indie game titled Office Fight that always puts a smile on my face. The sound holds up with the mids and highs being the strongest, followed by the lows. Black Myth: Wukong gave me the best audio experience thus far, and the lows were richer. It’s open ear, so you can still hear things in the environment, but it doesn’t affect the sound. The preset EQs allow you to switch up the equalizer from Studio, to Bass Booster, to Hip-Hop, Pop, Podcast, etc. You get an extra oomph from the Bass Booster when activated.

Additionally I listened to the following tracks while playing with the EQs:

   


1More Open Earbuds S70 vs 1More Fit Open Earbuds S50: Sound and Comfort Comparison

Both the 1More Open Earbuds S70 and 1More Fit Open Earbuds S50 offer impressive sound quality and comfort. The sound is similar between the two, though the edge goes to the S70. The S70 has a slight edge with better battery life as well. The S50, however, boasts a superior IPX7 rating compared to the S70’s IPX5, making it more water-resistant. For comfort, the S70 stands out with a more secure fit (it's not just a loop around the ear... the ergonomic earhook design is sweet), making them ideal for activities and naps. You can see the improvement, making the S70's a clear upgrade based on 1More’s commitment to quality. I put these in my fave category with other products like the 1More Quad Driver Headphones (wired) and 1More SonoFlow over-ear headphones.


Price and Value

You can get these headphones for $129.99. If you want an upgrade over the S50s, you've found it in the S70s. Plus, you can apply a $35 coupon for a limited time.

At this price point with the specs and the comfort of these headphones, they qualify for 5 cool points for sure. So, are the 1More Open Earbuds S70 worth the investment? I’d say yes. They offer solid audio, phenominal comfort, and useful features at a reasonable price.

Quality 5

Comfort 5

Audio 5

Price 5

5 out of 5 Cool Points


 + Sophi 

Support us below!


Dear Developers: How to Create an Indie Game Using Udemy Courses and Unreal Engine - A Step-by-Step Guide



Now more than ever, indie developers are getting their well-deserved recognition. Without the vast resources and budgets of larger game developers, indie creators rely on creativity and hard work, hoping gamers will embrace their games. When that happens, it’s a sigh of relief, as the success of a game can change developers’ lives.

That’s why we promote affordable courses that help aspiring developers create their own games. Whether you’re a solo developer or part of a team of friends, classmates, or like-minded strangers with a solid contract, you can tap into your dreams without waiting for established game studios to open their doors. Gamers are open to great games from indie teams, and if your game is awesome, it will get the love it deserves if it doesn't fly under the radar. So, salute to the indie developers out there, and for the rest of you aspiring to take that step.. be motivated by this Indie World Showcase + Nintendo Direct: Partner Showcase:



 Utilize the information below, and we look forward to checking out your game one day! 

Step 1: Learn the Basics with Udemy Courses

Udemy offers a variety of courses that can help you get started with game development. Here are some top recommendations:

  1. Unreal Engine 5: The Complete Beginner’s Course: This course covers the fundamentals of game development using Unreal Engine 5. By the end of the course, you’ll have built an entire demo game from scratch.
  2. Unreal Engine 5 C++ Developer: Learn C++ & Make Video Games: Learn how to create and mod video games using Unreal Engine 5, even if you’re a complete beginner.
  3. Unreal Engine 5 Megacourse: Create Games in UE5 & Blender: This course covers everything you need to know to get started in creating your own game in Unreal Engine, including pre-production, prototyping gameplay, and creating finalized props and characters in Blender.


Step 2: Master Unreal Engine

Unreal Engine is a powerful tool used by both AAA studios and indie developers worldwide. Here are some steps to master it:

  1. Understand the Interface: Familiarize yourself with the Unreal Engine Editor and its components. Learn how to navigate and customize the interface to suit your workflow.
  2. Learn Blueprints: Blueprints are Unreal Engine’s visual scripting system. They allow you to create game logic without writing code. Start with basic Blueprints and gradually move to more complex ones.
  3. Practice with Projects: Apply what you’ve learned by working on small projects. This hands-on experience is crucial for mastering Unreal Engine.

Step 3: Upgrade Your Hardware

Creating an indie game requires a solid hardware setup to ensure smooth development and testing. This will cost a lot less than tuition when it comes to persuing a degree related to game development, and this is actually your equipment to keep and create games on. Here are the essential hardware components you’ll need:


Processor (CPU): A powerful CPU is crucial for handling the complex tasks involved in game development, such as compiling code, rendering graphics, and running simulations.
  • Intel Core i7 or i9: These processors offer excellent performance for most game development tasks.
  • AMD Ryzen 7 or 9: Known for their multi-threading capabilities these CPUs are great for handling multiple tasks simultaneously.

Graphics Card (GPU): A dedicated GPU is essential for rendering high-quality graphics and running game engines efficiently.
Memory (RAM): Sufficient RAM is necessary to handle large assets and complex scenes in your game.
  • Minimum 16GB: Suitable for smaller projects and basic game development.
  • We Suggest 32GB or More: Idea for larger projects and more demanding tasks. If you stay ready, you don't have to get ready.

Storage: Fast and ample storage is crucial for storing your game assets, project files, and software.
  • SSD (Solid State Drive): At least 512GB for the operating system and software, plus an additional 1TB or more for project storage. SSDs offer faster load times and better performance compared to traditional HDDs. They're more afforable now, so it wouldn't be a stretch to get a good one at a "solid" price. :p

Monitor: A high-resolution monitor helps you see your game in detail and makes development easier.
  • 27-inch or larger: Provided ample screen space for multitasking. Aim for two.
  • 4K resolution: Offers sharp and clear visuals, which is especially useful for detailed work. You want to see your 4K game if you're presenting it as a title with 4K visiuals.

Peripherals: Quality peripherals can enhance your development experience.
  • Graphics Tablet: Useful for artists working on game assets and textures. There are some great options that are affordable and actually rival the biggest names around, so don't sleep on options like Xencelabs.

Backup Solutions: Regular backups are essential to prevent data loss.


Step 4: Develop Your Game

Once you have a solid understanding of Unreal Engine, it’s time to start developing your game:

  1. Pre-Production: Plan your game. Define the concept, story, characters, and gameplay mechanics. Create a game design document to guide your development process.
  2. Prototyping: Build a prototype of your game. Focus on core gameplay mechanics and test them to ensure they are fun and engaging.
  3. Production: Develop the full game. Create assets, implement gameplay features, and continuously test and refine your game.
  4. Polishing: Focus on polishing your game. Improve graphics, fix bugs, and optimize performance to ensure a smooth gaming experience.


Step 5: Launch and Market Your Game

After developing your game, the next step is to launch and market it:

  1. Create a Marketing Plan: Define your target audience and create a marketing plan to reach them. Use social media, gaming forums, and other platforms to promote your game.
  2. Launch on Platforms: Choose the right platforms to launch your game, such as Steam, Epic Games Store, or itch.io.
  3. Engage with the Community: Build a community around your game. Engage with players, gather feedback, and continuously improve your game based on their input.


Creating an indie game is a challenging but rewarding journey. By following these steps and utilizing resources like Udemy courses and Unreal Engine, you can turn your game development dreams into reality. Just know that challenges are real, but luck favors the prepared. Remember, the indie game community is supportive, and gamers are always on the lookout for great games, regardless of their humble beginnings.

So, plan and proceed, and we look forward to playing your game one day!




 + Sophi 

Support us below!


Creative Pebble SE... Reviewed! Stylish and Functional PC Speakers for Gamers



The Creative Pebble SE PC speakers are a perfect blend of style and functionality, making them an excellent addition to any gaming setup. These speakers feature a sleek, orb-shaped design that adds a touch of elegance to your desk. The built-in RGB rings at the base provide an illuminating pop of color, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your gaming space. Once you set these speakers, wipe the finger prints off, and let them shine.



Perfect for Any Setup

Whether you’re using a laptop or a desktop gaming setup, including the Valve Steam Deck, the Creative Pebble SE speakers are a great fit. They can easily connect to the Steam Deck dock, making them versatile and convenient for various configurations.

Impressive Specs and Features

  • Design: Stylish orb shape with built-in RGB rings
  • Drivers: 2" full-range drivers
  • Passive Radiators: Located at the back for enhanced sound quality
  • Connectivity: USB-C cable and 3.5mm aux-in
  • Power Output: Up to 4.4W (2.2W x 2); Up to 8.8W Peak power
  • RGB Rings: React to sound with the push of a button; 7 Lighting effects

The RGB rings are not just for show; they react to sound, adding a dynamic visual element to your audio experience. This feature can be activated with a simple push of a button, making your gaming sessions even more immersive (to a degree).


Quality Build You Can Feel

When you pick up the Creative Pebble SE speakers, you can immediately feel the quality of the build. They are sturdy and well-constructed, with passive radiators on the back that complement the 2" full-range drivers. Despite the bass being a bit on the shy side, the speakers deliver a solid sound that you can appreciate up close.


Ideal for Small Gatherings... If you bring them to the Party!

While these speakers might not be the best choice for a large house party, they are perfect for small gatherings in an office, small living room, or dorm. Turn on the RGB lights, switch them to the reactive setting, and enjoy some tunes while playing spades with family and friends.


Tested and Approved

I tested the Creative Pebble SE speakers with a variety of music tracks... like those you see below:

I've also played games + watched shows that include: Metal Slug Awakening, XDefiant, and the new... Batman: Caped Crusader TV show. The audio quality was impressive, especially considering the price point of $24.99.



Room for Improvement

One area where Creative Labs could improve is expandability. Adding an option for a subwoofer would have been a great addition. However, at $24.99, the Creative Pebble SE speakers offer good value for money.

You can grab these speakers with an additional 10% off while the deal lasts. I give the Creative Pebble SE two thumbs up at this price point.


By the way... I highly recommend getting a USB-C to USB-A adapter, just incase you don't always have access to a USB-C port to power up your speakers. I also recommend a USB-C wall charger for those of you who want to free up a USB-C port on your desktop or laptop, because all it does is supply power.


Build Quality 5

Funtionality 5

Audio 5

Price 5

5 out of 5 Cool Points



 + Sophi 

Support us below!