A man of many hats, Tre has expertise in Holistic Health and Wellness, Digital Marketing, and Media Analytics. With over 10 years of experience as a recording artist and producer, he directs our Music Production workshops. and releases music as Tre'mendous - Learn More
For decades, iMacs and MacBooks have been the staple brand in Multimedia Firms, Recording Studios and Film Studios due to Apple’s superior proprietary programs. But starting 5/23, Apple brings their two most acclaimed pro apps for creatives to iPadOS, Final Cut Pro and Logic Pro.
Redesigned for the iPad with all touch interfaces, Apple is ready to arm the iPad with desktop-level creative tools that will almost certainly elevate their tablet to a must have in any Film or Music Studio.
First up is Final Cut Pro, a non-linear Video Editor that has been used to make some of world best video content. From Movies, Documentaries, Music Videos and more, you can create pro-level content all from your iPad.
Logic Pro, a professional music studio containing everything you can think of to create high quality music compositions and songs – is finally ready for the mobile masses. What’s so intriguing about this is, Logic Pro is the reason so many people have came to the conclusion that MacBooks and iMacs are must have staples of recording studios round the world.
Logic Pro and Final Cut Pro will be available Tuesday May 23rd – for a subscription. While the first month is free, both apps will cost $4.99 a month/$49 a year. For more details clink the link above.
The Electric Bike Company, has more models than the late High Hefner and as more customizations than Android smartphones – has added a new bike to their extensive collection.
The Model J (J stands for Journey), a super-73 inspired e-bike comes with a 28 mph max speed (reprogrammable), up to a 195 mile range, and it comes equipped with Pedal Assist and Throttle.
The Electric Bike Company has the longest e-bike coverage guarantee on the market with a 10 year warranty (5 year for battery), with a full-stop assembly and paint shop located in the USA, so you can rest easy knowing your purchase will be backed by a team that confidently stands behind their product.
There are an huge amount of options to design your e-bike exactly how you want it to look, thanks to the Color Customizer platform available on the Electric Bike Company website.
Customize your e-bike to your liking by with
For more info, be sure to visit EBC’s website to take advantage of the introductory offer of $1199 (pre-order), which goes up to $1499 once it officially goes on sale.
Can Google revive the Android Wear platform with the first iteration of the Pixel Watch? Does it have what it takes to stand toe-to-toe with the Apple/Galaxy Watches, Garmin’s and Fitbits of the world? Let’s take the water drop smartwatch with the pebble design for a flick of the wrist to find out.
Specs and Features
While the Pixel Watch doesn’t revolutionize the wearable market with any unique features that aren’t already available, it does excel in the design department.
While I think Google does a good job making sure the Pixel Watch isn’t short of any features that are expected from a high-end wearable, it does seems a bit disjointed in the fitness area. The Fitbit app is now integrated into Google’s ecosystem, but it remains separate from their own fitness/health app – Google Fit.
The Pixel Watch has around the same thickness as the Apple Watch 7.
Conclusion
While I personally think Google did a great job with the Pixel Watch for a first try, the battery life could be better, and the one size fits all mantra could have be sidestepped for a bigger size 40mm+ size option. Google Fit and Fitbit could use tighter integration, although to be fair – Apple does use three apps also (Watch, Health and Fitness). For the second iteration, I would like to see better battery life, a bigger size option (or just release a Pro/Ultra version). But I do think the Pixel Watch is a wearable to keep a look out for, and consider when you shopping for a wearable that works with Android. Then should be your first choice
Dell (27% global market) has been one of the world’s top OEM brands for the past few decades, exchanging the #1 spot with HP (25% market share) and Lenovo (25.5%) . They have a model for everyone, the Inspirion series has everyday users covered – while Latitude to Precision model targets students to businesses, the more LED-centric G-series and Alienware sub-brand has the gamers on lock. But we’re here to showcase Dell’s most premium model line-up that offers the best tech available – the XPS Series.
Dell reserves the most stylish designs and innovations for the XPS line up, bringing together cutting-edge engineering and features to the iconic series that stands toe to toe and even exceeds what the competition has to offer. With three form factors that cover every tier of user, the XPS Plus, XPS 2-in-1, and XPS 13 – Dell has something for every type of power user.
XPS Plus 13
The Dell XPS Plus is the top end XPS of 2022/23, offering cutting-edge technologies, exceptional build quality, unique materials and a powerful feature set that’s sure to set trends for years to come.
XPS Plus in Platinum and Graphite
From the InfinityEdge display, capacitive touch function row, seamless glass trackpad, to the improved thermals with up to 55% more airflow, the XPS Plus is a definite contender for Ultrabook of the year.
The XPS 2-in-1 (left) and the XPS Plus (right) round out Dell’s premium XPS series
Dell XPS 13
The XPS 13 is the latest version of Dell’s top-selling, high end Ultrabook. It’s been critically acclaimed as the best Windows laptop money can buy for years by the biggest media publications. The 2022 model stands toe to toe with the best Apple, HP, Microsoft and Lenovo hardware in the market, and it’s the laptop that keeps Dell’s name amongst the tech industries best OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers).
The XPS 13
It’s sleek design, comfortable ergonomics, and uncompromising power make it a pioneer in the Ultrabook category of laptops, and cements Dell’s demand amongst executives and creative professionals.
XPS 2-in-1
The Dell 2-in-1 is a tablet with a complete ecosystem of accessories that immediately makes it a serious contender for the iPad/Surface Pro Killer title.
With an attractive all-metal and glass design, a full-sized stylus that magnetically attaches to the tablet, full-on detachable keyboard and trackpad folio case, and full on Windows 11 with Dell’s suite of custom apps – the XPS 2-in-1 is an attractive package for visual artists and writers.
We’ll be reviewing the trio of XPS devices over the next few weeks, so be on the lookout for our official reviews of the XPS Plus, XPS 2-in-1, and the XPS 13 right here on LBFQ.
Gamer-centric computer brand Razer is throwing their hat into the mobile gaming market with their first mobile gaming device, the Razer Edge. It comes in two flavors, a Wi-Fi variant more widely available – and the Verizon exclusive 5G model. In this review we’re going to take a look at the Razer Edge 5G.
It’s an inconspicuous looking tablet, that could easily be mistaken for a smartphone, but there are no telephony capability (text and calling features) on the device. One hint that the device isnt a phone is that there are no cameras on the back, which is even rare for a tablet.
But the back is sleek and smooth, with only a Razer logo on the back.
Specs
Razer Edge 5G
Screen
6.8-inch FHD+ AMOLED Display (1080 x 2400 Pixels) with Corning Gorilla Glass 5, 20:9 Aspect Ratio, 144Hz Refresh Rate, HDR10+
The Razer Edge has no shortage of gaming options, with the Google Play Games, EA Play, Parsec, and XBox platforms content accessible from the Razer Nexus app. All games downloaded from any of the aforementioned platforms show up here. There’s also settings to tweak the controller settings, like button layout and haptic feedback.
The Razer Nexus Gaming Interface.
Gaming feels as seamless and console-like as the Nintendo Switch, with the added ability to use your tablet like a full-on Android device outside of your Gaming sessions. And while the Razor Edge has nothing comparable to the Nintendo ecosystem on the Switch, all of the prior mentioned Platforms available on Razer’s gaming console makes it hard to miss the restrictive OS on the Switch.
There are other competitors closer to Razer’s product than Nintendo – Logitech and Valve’s gaming devices come to mind. But the build and separate controller makes it a more sleek and lighter device that the current options in the market.
Conclusion
While it definitely does what it’s marketed to do really well, disconnected from the Razer Kishi Pro controller bundled, the tablet is a dull affair. With no back camera, a selfie camera placed so you can only take pics in landscape orientation, and a compact size that makes it smaller than a Galaxy s23 Ultra – and it’s a moot tablet.
For version 2, Razer should make a stronger effort to implement exclusive features or even map out the hardware spec a bit more. As of now, without anything to make it stand out in a highly competitive industry – the Razer Edge comes off like a prototype concept. The Kishi Pro controller (that isn’t sold separately at the time of this article) is a great product on its own – maybe wait until it can be bought separately and use it with the smartphone you currently have.
There are many AEMs (Audio Equipment Manufacturers) who make products that are decent enough to market as the best, at times the plethora of options can be overwhelming to the average consumer.
This is where we come in handy, where we break down the top 5 brands behind some of the best quality Headphones, Earphones, Microphones and more into a cohesive list.
Blue Microphones merged with Logitech a few years ago, bringing their audio expertise and quality microphone lineup to the popular electronic accessory maker.
Blue’s Yeti line-up of Streaming USB Microphones are popular amongst game streamers and podcasters, but they’ve been major players in the pro audio market for years with their XLR mics. The $3999 Blue Bottle Flagship Tube Mic is a studio mainstay.
Samson is another reliable audio brand, whose USB microphones are usually on display and in stock at local stores like Best Buy or Target. They’ve been in the game since XLR’s were the only way to go, with their CO1, CO2, and CO2 Condenser mics being must have studio staples.
Audient is a audio brand out of the UK, with 20+years of expertise under their belts. They make everything from Audio Interfaces, Mixers, Microphones and more with a history of developing analog gear. Their no slouches in the digital workspace though, with their EVO Start Recording Bundle being quite mobile AND packed with Android,iOS, MacOS an Windows compatibility.
The Rodecaster Pro II is one the most versatile Audio Production Studios on the market today.
Rode has been riding the wave of dominance since their all-in-one systems invigorated public interest. The awesome RodeCaster Pro II, a follow-up to their renowned Rodecaster series – has every few contenders in the Streaming and Podcasting space; but its equally at home in a recording studio or News Agency.
JLab is the newest company on this list, but one that is rising fast as a respected audio brand. They are known for their wireless earbuds and headphones, as you might have seen the brands logo in your local dept. store – but what many people aren’t aware of us they also make webcams, USB Microphones like the Epic Talk , and the Studio Pro Over-Ear Studio monitors. JLab is quickly becoming known for making products at very reasonable very reasonable prices while retaining high quality control and quality output.
This rounds up out list of our top five Audio Brands (Hardware) for 2023, but we also have software, and entertainment categories to cover – so stay tuned!
Motorola released the Edge + February 2022, and a quick search online for reviews shows it was received fairly by consumers and the media alike – even if its marketing campaigns weren’t as grandeur as some of the competition. Equipped with the most powerful SOC of 2022 in the form of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1, the Edge + comes in 8GB/256, 12GB/256GB, 8GB/512GB, and 12GB/512GB capacities.
It released with a flagship price tag at $999, which is one of the reasons Apple and Samsung flagships overshadowed the device, but now you can get the Edge + 2022 at a whopping half off the retail price – bringing it down to $499.
We wouldn’t fib about something like this, so in case the sale ends soon here’s the receipts
Being I’m quite a stickler for the best bargain, I just had to invest in a device with true flagship caliber specs – AND had the compatible cellular bands of Dish Network’sBoost Infinite brand – as does the Motorola Edge Plus. So let’s get into our Motorola Edge + 2022 review.
Specs
Specs
Motorola Edge + (2022)
Screen
6.67-inch P-OLED Display (2400 x 1080 Pixels, 393 ppi) with Corning Gorilla Glass 3, 20:9 Aspect Ratio, 144Hz Refresh Rate, HDR10+, and punch-hole
Vimage is an interesting app. It’s not exactly a video editor, but the types of edits it allows you to make to photos add video like motion to pictures in a unique way.
Make your images pop with motion editing in Vimage.
Vimage give you the ability to add 3D animation to photos.
Cinematography is Vimage’s forte, combining complex effects like animating the sky or movement to water in your images, allowing you to create truly stunning visuals in the process.
Working as a tech analyst and getting high-end, flagship level smartphones to review on a regular basis can do one or two things for you. It can make you a spoiled, out of touch tech consumer who picks up an expensive habit of blowing money on the latest and greatest gadgets of the new year; or it can make you a shroud and analytical buyer who’s not bedazzled by the newest marketing slogans aimed at getting you to part with your hard-earned dollars.
While I admit to being guilty of swaying to both extremes, I can proudly declare I’ve settled into the “Unlocked, directly from the manufacturer” bunch. I whole heartedly shun carrier subsidized devices, which I believe are designed to keep you locked into long term relationships with one company – regardless of the newest specials or offers by competitors at any given time. This hunt for the best smartphone value has led to the discovery of a global brand known as Xiaomi.
Xiaomi’s devices are not readily available in US stores (since the closure of Fry’s Electronics) and can only be reliably purchased from third-party sellers on Amazon, or online vendors like Wireless Place, where I purchased my Xiaomi 11T .
I settled on this device looking for an powerful, unlocked smartphone that had flagship features and a midrange price. At the time of purchase, the Xiaomi 11T had $1000 flagship specs for less than half the price. I thought to myself, “This should be a smart buy, even if I update my phone in a year and it doesn’t get consistent updates.” But when I received the device in the mail and held it in my hands for the first time, I was impressed at how the build gave the impression I was holding a true flagship. Especially when I saw the display come to life for the first time.
It’s the Display for ME 💜💪🏾
Although the excitement settled, admittedly due to the distractions of new devices arriving in our offices and being bombarded by their million-dollar marketing campaigns – after a week or two I recall always coming back to the Xiaomi 11T, the ONE device that I actually spent $450 to buy myself. There was always that ONE FEATURE that the latest iPhone, Galaxy or Pixel didn’t have, that led me to putting my personal SIM card back into the 11T. And while I do admit I always get a kick out of getting a new smartphone for review, when I was greeted with a surprise update to Android 13 on the 11T earlier this week, I came to the realization that the China-based company was more dependable for Android updates than most domestic smartphone manufacturers.
Xiaomi 11T’ update to MIUI 14/Android 13 was a sweet way to ask to be my Valentine’s 💜
Top Features
My trusty Xiaomi 11T, over a year of loyalty
Xiaomi’s flavor of Android is called MIUI (Me UI) and it’s current version rests at 14, which is parallel to Android 13. It’s known for packing a lot of extra features in Android, such as a robust theming engine and Xiaomi’s own app ecosystem. One cool feature that enhances the look on and feel of the 11T is Super Wallpapers.
One thing you must be cautious of, is making sure the carrier you’re using has 5G and 4G bands supported when purchasing an international version of a Xiaomi device to the US. While you’re pretty much ok with ATT or T-Mobile or any of their pre-paid MVNOs (Metro by T-Mobile,Mint, etc.) Verizon’s cellular network doesn’t accept Xiaomi devices at all, even though some of their bands are supported.
Camera
The 108MP Main Rear camera on the 11T is as full-featured as camera apps come, offering just the right amount of modes and features without being too overwhelming.
(Camera Samples Pending)
Standard photoPortrait PhotoLeft Image: Standard 1X zoom | Right: Macro 10X zoom
All-Around Well Rounder
I have used the Xiaomi 11T to create all sorts of content, from B-roll footage, music compositions, professional photography, to video editing. It has never failed, and always stood toe-to-toe if not exceeding the results produced by more popular brands. It is the one device that has given me confidence that I could create content that met the standard threshold of quality of the recording industry and professional media with one device.
All of my mobile music production workshops for Labfreq have been produced and demonstrated on the Xiaomi 11T. Every other device that I’ve tried to use has ran into a limitation at some point in the process before completion. That’s the main reason why this device has had so much staying power over the last year or so.
Conclusion
The Xiaomi 11T has left a lasting first impression of what Xiaomi has to offer, and they do have lots of products with feature packed value available. While there are many great options in the smartphone market, none encapsulates what I look for in a device in one place the way the 11T does. Even in 2023, it still moves like a high-scoring rookie of the year.
The Pangolin is the latest AMD powered laptop to be released by Open-Source-centric OEM System76, and we have our in-depth review ready for the masses.
The Pangolin isn’t much different from the Lemur Pro in terms of reliability and quality – but mobility and internals is where it differs.
Where the Lemur was Intel powered, the Pangolin has the Ryzen 7 Pro and up to 32GB of RAM.
Inboxing
System76 has one of the most unique, quirky, fun unboxing experiences you’ll ever have with any consumer laptop on the market – especially if you’re a developer or programmer.
Build Quality and Specs
Specs
System76 Pangolin
OS
Pop!_OS 22.04 LTS of Ubuntu 22.04 LTS
Processor
AMD Ryzen 7 6800U
CPU
8 Cores – 16 threads 2.7 up to 4.7 Ghz
GPU
AMD Radeon 680M
RAM
32 GB LPDDR5 @ 6400 Mhz
Display
15.6″ 1920×1080 FHD, Matte Finish,144 Hz
Front Camera
16 Megapixels (f/2.5 Aperture, 1/3.06″ sensor
Storage
2 x M.2 SSD (PCIe NVMe) Up to 16TB Total
Expansion
3x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, SD Card Reader
System76 laptops ship with either Ubuntu, or their own in-house Linux distro known as Pop_OS! which is my favorite computing environment outside of the music studio.
With a bit of tinkering, most popular productivity software made for Windows runs on Pop_OS!, using Wine or GameOnLinux, you can have the best of both worlds (although results will vary).
Using System76’s flavor of Linux, you pretty have access to any type of software you could ever need through the Pop Store, although it will take some time sifting through the large open-source library of unknown apps.
Pop_OS! Pop StoreThe Pop Store is well organized, containing every type of app you could ever need.
Conclusion
The Pangolin is a worthy choice for any consumer who is looking for an upgradable, Open-Source laptop running Linux. Programmers, Data Analysts, Institutions and companies would be right at home, but this the type of home computer that could easily last 10 years without being left behind by the advancements in tech. Anyone looking for a new, trouble-free way of computing should take a serious look at the Pangolin laptop by System76.
