All That You Can't Leave Behind
by Uni/Interscope
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (31 October, 2000)
list price: $18.98
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Editorial Review

The foursome come roaring out of the blocks with their latest collection. The album's first single, "Beautiful Day," raced to the No. 1 slot on the U.K. singles charts and received a similar rapturous reception stateside. From its shimmering preamble to its sweeping, infectious chorus, it perfectly stakes out the middle ground between the anthemic U2 of the '80s and the more grounded group of the '90s. With Daniel Lanois and Brian Eno sharing production chores again after having taken a break with Pop, the U2 team enters the new millennium with their lineup--and mission--intact. --Steven Stolder ... Read more

Reviews (1276)

Piece of sh**!
This album is full of rubbish! They can't make music...why they don't just quit? It would be the best...this is like Radiohead! Terrible!

Its really not that bad.......
........this was U2 (apparently) going back to their roiginal sound after the more experimental (but much better) Pop and Zooporopa and Actuang Baby.

The problem is its little poppy and was liked to much by the mainstream pop audiences, which probably lost them respect from their fans.
This is a fantastic album when you compare it with "How to dismantle an atomic bomb"
everything they did was great until after the promising "electrical storm."

Leave it behind!
Boring, insipid, banal, uninteresting, lifeless, dull, flat, fatuous, tedious, trite, trivial, hackneyed, ordinary, unremarkable, bald, inane, jejune, vapid, commonplace, empty, vain, unavailing, useless, ostentatious, superficial, obvious, predictable, futile, weak, fake, unoriginal, tired, passionless, monotonous, worthless, tasteless, apathetic, sluggish, indifferent, awkward, wretched, untalented, primitive, pointless, u2less... worst U2 album ever. ... Read more

Asin: B000050I5N
Subjects:  1. Adult Alternative Pop/Rock    2. Album Rock    3. Alternative Pop/Rock    4. Pop    5. Pop/Rock    6. Rock   

Polaroid i-Zone Translucent Pocket Instant Camera (Fireball Red)
by Polaroid
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $24.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Polaroid's i-zone pocket cameras produce tiny, high-quality Polaroidpictures about the size of a frame of 35mm film (or your average postage stamp).The i-zones use either sticky or nonsticky instant film, so you can put yourpictures in a frame or stick them onto your notebook or CD player. While thecameras all have the same funky oblong plastic design, they are available in avariety of interesting color schemes. The silver edition is a solid silvery graycolor, while Phat Blue and Fireball Red are translucent monotones, and mostothers are two-tone, like the jade version, which has an aqua green front andbluish back.

Each i-zone set comes complete with camera, instant pocket film (six shots), andtwo AA alkaline batteries--everything you need to start making pictures. Werecommend buying extra film right away, especially if the camera is a gift,because those first six shots tend to go pretty fast. Loading the camera is aseasy as dropping the film cartridge into the back of the camera and closing itback up. The trickiest part is remembering to pull the film tab out in one fluidmotion, without stopping--exactly like most other Polaroids. When you expose ashot and pull out the film, you get something that looks like a Band-Aid, withan image in the middle and extra paper on both ends. Just clip the extra paperoff with a pair of scissors and you have your final product. Be careful not tocut into the actual photo, as you don't want to give the caustic paste inside achance to seep out and get on your fingers.

There are three exposure settings on the i-zone--indoors (with flash),outdoor/sunny, and outdoor/cloudy. Overall, the camera is probably best forsubjects within 2 to 8 feet, although we took pictures of downtown buildingsthat turned out pretty well. The outdoor/sunny setting requires bright sundirectly on the subject for a good exposure. Even if it isn't cloudy, try usingthe outdoor/cloudy setting if the subject is in shadow or if it is early or latein the day when the sunlight isn't at full strength. The flash seems to workbest from about 4 to 5 feet away.

The best part is figuring out what to do with the mini photos once you'vecreated them. The options seem to be limitless, from decorating cell phones tousing them as key chains, putting them in mini frames, or making refrigeratormagnets. These cameras are affordable, simple to use, and a lot of fun.--Walt Opie ... Read more

Features

• Kit includes camera, trial pack of sticky film, and batteries
• Takes instant pictures the size of a postage stamp
• Fun, new film format
• Focus-free with built-in flash and simple loading
• Sticky or nonsticky film available

Reviews (18)

Beware: Film must say Sticky to have adhesive! Great Camera!
I love this camera but I bought it and also could not figure out how to get photos to stick. I called toll free polaroid number and they explained there are 2 types of film. Plain and one that says sticky..but this camera is a blast! Very fun! Just need to know if you want photo STICKERS..BUY STICKY FILM!

Not like other polaroids
this was abig disappointment.The photos do not come out automatically like our regular Polaroid.This was a birthday present for my daughter and the first time out she pulled and three photos came straight out and did not tear off in between.I thoguht she'd be taking photos and sticking them everywhere, but the thing is gathering dust in a drawer somewhere.

Great gift!
This simple little camera will be a huge hit at weddings, parties, goofy weekends hanging out with friends and family, and everything in between.I have a silver izone myself but gave 2 of these clear red ones for Christmas: fun and festive presents that I know will get lots of use.It would also be a wonderful gift for Valentine's Day, not only because of it's hot fireball colour, but because you and your honey can use it to record all kinds of happy moments together all year 'round. ... Read more

Asin: B00004VUC9
Subjects:  1. Photograph Photography    2. Camera (Cameras)    3. Instant    4. izone   

Panasonic KXTG2550 2.4 GHz DSS Cordless Phone with Caller ID (Cobalt Blue)
by Panasonic
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $179.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Get two bands of cordless transmission in one with the Panasonic KXTG2550F2.4 GHz cordless phone with digital spread spectrum technology. This phoneoperates on two FM frequency ranges at the same time--2.4 GHz from the baseand 900 MHz on the handset--to reduce interference and increase range.

With twin-band transmission, the phone's radio signals don't compete witheach other and give you crystal-clear calls with no echo. Panasonic hasalso added circuitry to the KXTG2550F that resists interference fromappliances like microwave ovens, which can add static to some 2.4 GHzcalls.

This advanced technology comes with the power of 2.4 GHz digital spreadspectrum transmission. The FCC opened the high-frequency, short-wavelength2.4 GHz range only in 1998. Transmission in this range encounters lessinterference, giving phones like the Panasonic KXTG2550F greater soundclarity, and a range of up to 150 feet indoors. Dual antennas on the baseunit add to this phone's impressive range.

In addition, digital spread spectrum (DSS) switches rapidly from frequencyto frequency at random at a range far above that accessible by most radioscanners. Because of the sophisticated encryption behind modern DSStechnology, DSS cordless phone calls are almost impossible to eavesdropon.

The Panasonic KXTG2550F also features a three-line LCD on thehandset so you can view caller information with caller-ID or caller-ID/callwaiting service from your phone company. This phone's memory stores up to50 names and numbers so you can screen both new calls and calls coming inas you talk on the phone.

Other features include a speed dialer that stores up to 30 numbers, avoice-mail-message indicator light, and a lighted handset keypad so you candial in the dark. All this in a cobalt-blue design that is shock and splashresistant for greater durability. This phone's tough construction andrubberized trim help it survive accidental splashes or impacts.

The handset operates on a long-life NiMH rechargeable battery that fullycharges in as little as seven hours for up to eight hours of talk time.This phone comes with a headset jack and belt clip. ... Read more

Features

• Dual antenna system
• Spread spectrum technology for greater range and security
• 2.4 GHz/900 MHz twin-band transmission
• Shock- and splash-resistant design
• Call waiting caller ID with 50-station memory

Reviews (20)

Not My Ideal Phone - It Gets the Job Done
I have had this phone since October 1999. I purchased it for several reasons:

1)It has the newfangled 2.4 GHz Spread Spectrum Technology

2)It is cordless and headset compatible

3)It has caller ID, caller ID with call waiting capabilities

4)It did not have an answering system

5)It worked with the voicemail I have from the phone company

At the time, it satisfied all of my needs perfectly.

Overall, the sound quality is acceptable.The battery doesn't last as long as it did when I bought it, but that is to be expected.I thought, though I was mistaken, that I could add an additional handset to the base system.Right now, I need more phones in my home.That I cannot add additional handsets is a drawback.

The headset option is key for me because I ruined my neck at work from long hours on the phone.I can only talk on the phone with a headset or I get a giant neck ache.This phone works well with a headset and allows me to do lots of activities while on the phone.

Unfortunately and ironically, the biggest advantage of this phone is also its worst feature.Once you have used the headset, the phone cannot be used in non-headset mode.After removing the headset, I cannot get a dial tone on the handset when I press talk.This is frustrating/annoying for people who want to use the phone without the headset.

I called Panasonic to find out how to fix this problem and the representative said it happened because I was not using a Panasonic headset. I bought one, but the problem was not eliminated.

By chance, I discovered that the phone could be restored to non-headset mode if the headset was removed, the handset was placed on the base, the phone was set to auto-pick up and the handset was picked up while receiving an outside call.I used the Panasonic headset after the phone was "reset" like this and the problem still existed.

I remain frustrated because I haven't been able to find my "secret fantasy" cordless phone.This phone meets part of the criteria, but falls miserably short.

Highly Disappointed!
Like other reviewers below--I found this phone to be a major disappointment. At first it was a great phone(and should have been for the price tag!)--but after about a year I started getting horrible static, so bad that I'd have to change phones in mid-conversation. I wouldn't recommend this phone to anyone.

Horrible
I bought this phone about 1 yr ago, it was very expensive and never quite worked right.I can be standing next to the charger and it will tell me it is out of range, it does not allow you to answer calls or anything when it does this. Also when I dial numbers it gets all confused and makes these weird noises and I have to hang up and keep trying until Ifinally get it to dial correctly. I would not recommend any Panasonic phones after using this one. Right now I am in the market for a new phone and I am probably going with a V-Tech. I know a few people who have these and love them. ... Read more

Asin: B00004TZH8
Subjects:  1. KXTG 2550 F    2. Phones (Telephones)    3. Cordless (Cord-less)    4. Caller ID (CID)    5. (Identification Display)    6. 2.4 GHz (2.4GHz, gigahertz)    7. Cordless   

Philips AZ9103 Personal CD Player with Car Accessories
by Philips
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $79.99
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Editorial Review

The Philips AZ910317 personal CD player has a car adapter kit and features a blue heat-resistant body. It has digital dynamic bass boost and 40 seconds of ESP3 power-saving skip protection. Because it is CD-RW compatible, it can play audio CDs that you have bought or have burned yourself. It offers up to 20 hours of playing time from fresh AA batteries.

Other features include a one-bit digital-to-analog converter and a host of playback options, including shuffle play, 99-track programming, repeat, hold, and resume. This CD player comes with headphones, an AC/DC adapter, and car adapter kit. ... Read more

Features

• Includes car adapter kit
• CD-RW compatible
• 40-second electronic skip protection
• Extended playing time up to 20 hours
• Translucent blue heat-resistant body

Reviews (10)

Not For Clumsey People
i recieved this player for cristmas about 5 ago it is a great play and it also recharges rechargeable batteries which was a function i liked. BUT it isnt for clumsey people. after dropping it 3 times on a hardwood floor the head phone jack became broke and would only play out of one head phone and after ruling out my headphones i gave it away and replaced it with a cheap($10-$15) lenoxx sound CD player which i must say IS for the more clumsey type. ive had it for 4 years and just recently the phone jack has gone bad. but unfortunately i cannot find anymore of this brand. so if you are carefyul and not clumsey this player is great. especially if you have sensitive ears, becouse it didnt play quite loud enough for me. over all it was a decent player

Awsome CD Player
I've had this CD player for 3 years and it's great. Very good size, goods looks especially the blue color. In all the time I've had it it has never skipped. Very good sound. The car kit worked but I never needed it with a CD player already in the car. So the car kit isn't an essential component for me. The only thing I don't like is that the ear phones sometimes pull my hair but they have very good sound. I replaced them with some other ones that go on my ears. Overall it is the bomb! You should get it.

All You Need and then Some
Unless you want an AM/FM tuner or MP3 capabilities, this is as goo as it gets. The 40 (I thought it was 45) second skip protection is perfect. It is perfect for jogging, since the anti-skip actually seems to rid it of skipping at all. The car kit allows you to hook your CD player to you cars audio system via casette rack, enabling you to save on the new car you may be buying. Also includes car power adaptor. ... Read more

Asin: B00004S90C
Subjects:  1. Portable Compact Disc    2. AZ 9103    3. Portable Compact Disc Player (Personal CD)    4. cd player (cdplayer)   

The Beatles 1
by Capitol
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (14 November, 2000)
list price: $18.98 -- our price: $13.49
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Proving yet again their willingness to dice 'n' slice their burgeoning legacy into new--if not exactly fresh--product, the Fab Four Minus One have released this single-disc compendium of their No. 1 hits. Though obviously superfluous to the faithful (who may also find themselves quibbling over the precise definition of "No. 1 hit" and the exclusion of seeming contenders like "Please Please Me" and "Strawberry Fields"), newly arrived visitors from the Pleiades star cluster and other neophytes will find it a concise and generous (nearly 80 minutes) single-disc introduction to the band's career-spanning, unparalleled dominance of pop music in the 1960s. But beyond being a mere trophy case of commercial success (and it won't be hard to find critics who'll argue that these singles aren't even the band's best work), it's also a Cliff's Notes take on a remarkable seven-year run of musical evolution, one that stretches from the neo-skiffle of "Love Me Do" through a remarkable synthesis of R&B, rockabilly, Tin Pan Alley, gospel, country, and classical that still defies efforts to effectively deconstruct it. This is the pop monument equivalent of the '27 Yankees and '90s Bulls; it's every bit as obvious and dominating--and just as essential. --Jerry McCulley ... Read more

Reviews (958)

Honestly, Was This Collection Really Necessary?
Before I start, I would like to state the only reason I am giving this cd a five star rating is that it's because it is quite possibly the finest rock and pop music ever written. However, if I were to judge this cd on quauntity rather than quality, this would be a one star cd.

"The Beatles 1" is a collection of all 20 of their American singles as well as seven that went to number one in Britain. While it's no lie that these songs are classics, but really, exactly how many times does this stuff have to be rereleased before everyone is tired of The Beatles?

The burning question is, why don't The Beatles have their own boxed set? I mean, seriously, they are the most important band that ever existed, and yet they haven't gottent their own seven or even eight disc best of with all their hits and the classics that weren't. That's a sin. It would probably take years to put together, but for The Beatles, it would be worth it.

My advice is to only purchase "The Beatles 1" is if you're a beginning fan. Other than that, this cd is not necessary in the least.

THE BEATLES ROCK
When my mom got this CD for her birthday I totally wasn't interested. But when I heard some of the various songs I dicided to borrow it for awhile. It is awsome!! Each song seems to be it's own, no song alike. Although it does't have some songs like "St. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Clud Band", it is still worth listening to. Plus inside there is a little book that shows the year each song came out and the record covers for them. And one last thing, on the internet there is a 1# CD site that has audio and video of the beatles playing.

a great slice of music history
for all those uninititated in Beatle fandom, look no further than here.This collection brings all of their "hits" (though not necessarily their best songs) into one place, though it infamously omits any songs from their oft praised "sargeant Pepper" album (I don't much like this album anyway, though)this captures a lot of their most influential material; for me, the real magic is in the last half of the cd.I feel that they were still a little immature at songwriting in the first half, and the songs are a little peppy, but you should still get this cd to see why they are so legendary.Have fun! ... Read more

Asin: B00004ZAV3
Subjects:  1. Album Rock    2. Britain    3. British Invasion    4. British Psychedelia    5. Folk-Rock    6. Merseybeat    7. Pop    8. Pop/Rock    9. Psychedelic    10. Rock    11. Rock & Roll    12. Singer/Songwriter   

Indulge your personal taste with this handy little French press coffeemaker. Use it at home or take it along to office or school and brew coffee precisely as you like it rather than settling for what you get out of the machine (shudder). Compact (7-1/2 inches high), for carrying in purse, briefcase, or backpack, but sturdy, it's made of tempered glass and durable plastic, with stainless-steel press and bands. A big handle facilitates pouring through its pert little spout. Rinse it out or run it through the dishwasher. --Fred Brack ... Read more

Features

• 7-1/2 inches high
• Makes 3 cups of fresh coffee by French press method
• Ideal for office, school, or home
• Made of tempered glass and durable plastic, with stainless-steel press
• Carry in purse, briefcase, or backpack

Asin: B00004R8YD
Subjects:  1. French Presses    2. Coffee Presses   

Samsung YP-E64 Yepp MP3 Player
by SAMSUNG
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $249.95
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Samsung's YP-E64 Yepp MP3 player is a shockproof portable MP3 playerthat can deliver uninterrupted digital-quality sound--even when the listener ison the go--because it has no moving parts. With 64 MB of built-in flash memoryand the ability to expand the memory with SmartMedia cards, you can store enoughmusic for your listening pleasure. Its 3-D audio setting and seven-modeequalizer further enhance your listening experience. You can download MP3 filesfrom the Internet or other online services, then create a personal playlist totake with you.

Samsung's Yepp's three-line LCD panel allows easy navigation through yourcustomized playlist by showing the song, the artist, and the track number. TheYepp MP3 player can also be used as a telephone directory, storing up to 350names and numbers. It also functions as a portable recorder, storing up to twohours of voice recording.

The Yepp comes with RealJukebox music management software. It runs on two AAAbatteries, which will power the Yepp for up to 10 hours. ... Read more

Features

• Telephone directory stores hundreds of contacts
• 64 MB built-in memory with SmartMedia memory expansion slot
• 7-mode audio equalizer with 3-D audio setting
• 3-line LCD screen
• Records up to 4 hours of voice audio

Reviews (26)

Great Buy!
I have had this mp3 for probably about 4 or 5 years. It has been AMAZING! I got it when mp3s first came out, so it was a great little gadget that no one else had at the time. I was able to easily put songs on it, and now I look for good quality songs with small sizes to get the maximum value out of it. It is the smallest and most lightweight mp3 I have seen, it fits easily in the palm of your hand and the buttons aren't too small. The battery wear is great, I'd say probably 12 hours. I just wish it could be expanded to a larger size. Overall, it has been great for me!

YP-E64 Not what I thought.
I was under the impression that the YP-E64 could be upgraded to a total of 128MB by using a 64MB Smart Media Card.This is not true.I was very disappointed about that.I tried using a 64MB SMC I bought specifically for this MP3 player, and ended up having to use the 32MB one I bought for my digital Camera.And the 128MB one I bought...useless, unless I want to take 300+ pictures with my camera.Other than that, the Voice recorder works great, and it sounds good.Just wish the voice recorder had the option to record at better quality than it does.Overall, it isn't bad, just not what I thought it would be.

...USB adapter for YP-E64
The yepp comes with parallel adapter andUSB adapter as an option. Unfortunatly, i can't find USB adapter to buy.
This product for my year of expirience has big disadvantage, not coming with USB.
Another disadvantage is the uncompability to Windows XP ... Read more

Asin: B00004SDFI
Subjects:  1. MP3, MP Three, MP III, MPIII    2. YPE64, YPE, 64    3. Portable Audio    4. MP3 MP 3 Player    5. MP3 Player (MP 3)   

PCS Phone Sanyo VM4500 - Silver (Sprint)
by Sprint
Average Customer Review:
Wireless Phone
list price: $399.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

In terms of performance and functionality, the Sanyo 4500 is arguably the best phone we have encountered. The sleek, well-designed 4500 has plenty of features, including voice-activated dialing and a voice memo recorder, that aren't available in most premium phone models.

Out of the box, we were impressed with its sleek, robust construction, alluring silver finish, and intuitive controls. The 4500 also boasts dual-band/dual-mode electronics, unsurpassed talk and standby times, and sophisticated functionality including Web access, e-mail and two-way SMS capabilities.

At 5.3 (H) by 1.7 (W) by 1.1 (D) inches and weighing just 5 ounces, the 4500 is sturdy and a bit trimmer than its competitors. We could easily operate the side-mounted volume controls while on a call, and we effortlessly placed calls and navigated the Web with one hand. The headphone jack, located just above the volume controls, allowed us to hook up a hands-free kit and stash the 4500 in our pocket while we conducted conversations. We aren't fans of retractable antennas--as they are prone to damage--but we used the 4500 for several weeks without any complaints or breakage. And while the 4500 doesn't have an infrared modem, you can sync it with your computer using a standard data cable connection kit.

The six-line screen (five text lines, one icon line) and blue backlit display allow for seamless navigation through the 4500's bountiful menu selections. Using the four-way navigational button, you can peg through the following menu selections: Call History, Messages, Phonebook, Roaming (where you can activate a safeguard against placing or receiving accidental roaming calls), Wireless Web, Calendar, Environment (so you can match the phone's alerts to your surroundings), Sounds, Display (enter your own personal greeting or adjust screen settings), Security, Setup, Special (access to the calculator and two weird games--Crab Catch and Slot Machine), Voice Service, and Keyguard. One caveat: The games, especially Slot Machine, gulp battery life. Fortunately, a travel charger, which fully rejuiced our sample model in about 45 minutes, is included.

The 4500's design is rounded out by a well-spaced keypad, OK and CLR buttons for menu prompts, Talk and End buttons to place and end calls, a lavender Speaker button (for voice-activated calls), and a speaker located on the back of the phone.

Hands down, the voice-activated features are the heart of this phone. It was a cinch to set up voice tags and establish a list of 30 friends and associates we could call with voice-activated dialing. While our sample 4500 handled single names better than full names, we never had trouble getting the phone to recognize first names. Once we set up voice tags, all we needed to do was press the Speaker button, say the name of the person we wanted to call, and the 4500 handled the rest.

The voice memo recorder was just as useful. Instead of scrambling for Post-it notes or our PDA, we saved our to-do lists, important numbers, and reminders in the 4500's memory. An added bonus: when playing messages back, you have the option of listening to them over the earpiece or main speaker. You can even attach a voice ringer to any number in voice dial memory. This was a little tricky to figure out, but we never had to crack the owner's manual for assistance.

And the minibrowser is just as functional and organized. The 4500 has quick access to all your favorite sites as well as news, weather, stock, and entertainment updates. Again, the phone's superb navigational controls made surfing the wireless Internet a joy, and we can't say that about all Web-enabled phones. One question that remains unanswered, though: Why do you have to go so far into the options to enter your own URL?

Like most phones of its kind, the 4500 supports carrier-dependent features such as caller ID, call forwarding, three-way calling, and call forwarding. And, with its 300-name phone book and 200 SMS capacity, the 4500 further cemented its status as an ideal business communication tool.

The phonebook also has labels for your different contacts. We tagged most of our phone book entries, whether they were our colleagues, friends' mobile or pager numbers, fax numbers, or roommates. Organizing short text messages was just as easy: We assigned a folder for each contact and stowed messages in their respective folders.

Other baseline features include a T9 predictive keypad; eight speed-dial locations; 10-number incoming, outgoing, and missed call logs; built-in vibrating alert; and 10 different ringer selections, including voice alert, which announces the name of the person calling.

With its event calendar, to-do list, calculator, and series of different alarms, the 4500 doubles as a PDA. And the phone has plenty of other noteworthy features to boot.

If the 4500 is unable to find a carrier signal after 15 minutes of searching, a power-save feature is automatically activated. Press any key, and the phone starts to look for a signal again. For your own sanity, whenever the phone is in power-save mode a message is displayed on the screen. Also, if you dig in the phone book, you'll find direct lines to 411, roadside assistance, and account info. You also find a pause feature that enables you to successfully preprogram voice mail or credit card call numbers.

The 4500 also offers advanced security features. You can lock both the phone itself (to prevent outgoing calls, except to emergency numbers) and the keypad (to prevent accidental calls if the phone is in your backpack), set different call restrictions, erase your call logs, or store numbers in a secret location. Furthermore, if your phone is lost or stolen, a special feature lets you erase personal information and lock the phone by sending a SMS message from your PC, PDA, or other device.

The lithium-ion battery is rated for up to four hours of talk time and 288 hours of digital standby time. Our sample 4500 (outfitted with a Sprint PCS account) sipped battery power; it held a call for four hours and 15 minutes and it lasted over 12 days in standby mode. You read that correctly: our 4500 was left on for almost two weeks before the battery gave out.

Whether you're a businessperson who needs a thorough mobile communications device or someone merely looking for a cool new phone for everyday use, the 4500 is ideal for people who aren't impressed by the norm. --Thom Arno

Pros:

• Excellent functionality and style
• Voice-activated dialing
• Voice memo recorder
• Web enabled
• PIM functions
• Organized, intuitive menus
• Unparalleled battery performance

Cons:

• Retractable antennas break easily
• Supports only two languages, English and Spanish

How We Tested Battery Talk/Standby Time

When reading our reviews, you should view the test results of mobile-phone battery talk time and standby time as relative in formation only. Many variables, including carrier signal strength at your location, signal consistency (including incoming a nd outgoing calls), display and ringer settings, and battery charging methods and history, will affect performance. When han dset manufacturers and mobile phone carriers list talk-time and standby-time ratings, they usually include disclaimers aboutvariable performance and often refer to the times they publish as maximum times. Some quote expected battery life ranges, a nd in this case you're probably safe to assume you'll experience at least the minimum rated range. Note that manufacturers o f dual-mode digital and analog handsets publish battery-life rates for both digital and analog modes, because analog mode co nsumes much more power than digital mode.

Our Tests: We tested digital mode talk and standby times with each phone. Prior to each test, we fully charged the ph one's battery according to the manufacturer's directions. To test digital phone talk time, we turned the phone on, establish ed a digital carrier signal, dialed a number in our test lab, and, when the call rang through, took the receiving phone's ha ndset off the hook. When all went well, we didn't do anything else except record the time when the phone died. In a couple o f cases, the phones lost the signal and dropped the calls. If we were right there and could redial, we did so immediately an d continued running the test. Otherwise, we halted the test, recharged the battery, and started the test over. Assuming cons istent carrier signal strength, this test should represent best-case talk time. And it's worth noting that several phones' t alk-time performance significantly exceeded the manufacturers' ratings.

To test digital phone standby time, we turned the phone on, established a carrier signal, and left the phone in standby mode . We checked the phone every few hours (for what was often days on end) until the phone finally cut out. Because no outgoingor incoming calls occurred during testing and because the phone was not moved, this method should represent best-case stand by time, again assuming consistent carrier signal strength. ... Read more

Features

• This high-end CDMA clamshell phone is the first to add Push-To-Talk functionality
• Equipped with a VGA still resolution (640 x 480 pixels) camera with flash and video light -- can also record video clips up to 15 seconds
• Includes LCD color display
• Features voice dialing, speakerphone, and call screening
• Phone book can carry up to 500 numbers total -- plus email and web addresses

Reviews (55)

PLEASE READ!! THIS WILL EXPLAIN LOWER REVIEWS!!
Quick review: ONLY buy this phone if it is hardware version 2.01 or higher. The original hardware version (1.01) is full of bugs and problems, and is NOT worth your money. It's JUNK. The NEW version (2.01) is AWESOME, and you will love it, and get good reception where others are searching for signal. This new phone is by far the best cell phone I've ever owned (no joking), and I've had 15-20 phones at least. The camera is good for a phone built in, the video camera is cool, and I love the unlimited Vision service. The PTT (radio/walkie-talkie) is cool to, but seems overpriced to me, but you don't HAVE to have that service just b/c the phone is ready for it. In all, I have NO COMPLAINTS about this phone. For more explanation, keep reading. If I've already answered you're questions, you can stop reading now. Ok, the first scp-5500 I had was a refurb, sent to me to replace a defect 5300. Keep in mind the scp-5500 and VM-4500 are IDENTICAL, no matter what anyone else says. Here's the main thing to keep in mind when deciding to purchase this phone: the original hardware version (which is usually the silver ones) are loaded with bugs. When I first got my original 5500, it was ok, but gradually got worse and worse reception over time, until it got to the point that I could not get signal unless I hooked up to an external antenna. I was at the point that I hated the phone and was ready to disconnect service with sprint. I had the handset into a sprint store to have it serviced by a sprint technician 3 times within a month, and all they would tell me was that they reflashed the software, and the phone should be better. Never hapened. Even though the phone was under warranty AND I had the additional handset insurance, they would do nothing but order me another REFURBISHED phone. The sprint representative I was dealing with told me they would normally give me a new phone in this case, but they were out of stock. Another customer next to me asked about the EXACT same phone, and it was magically in stock. I finally went to another store, and explained my problems and anger with Sprint in general to a representative there, who had my phone looked at by a sprint technician, and gave me a BRAND NEW PHONE a minute later. The NEW hardware version, 2.01 absolutely ROCKS!! I get signal where others have nothing, the phone has exceptional sound, I cannot complain about this phone at all except for the battery life. I use my cell phone A LOT however, probably much more so than most people, so I have ordered an extended battery. The normal phone user would most likely have no problems with this phone. Bottom line: under NO CIRCUMSTANCES should you buy a phone that is the original hardware version. ONLY get hardware version 2.01 or higher. You WILL love it!! I would highly recommend the holster from a Sprint store (yes, they're $20 instead of $5 at the mall, but they hold the phone much better), the car charger of course, and the data cable. You can hook the phone up to your laptop via the data cable, and if you have the Vision service (which you should), you can surf the 'net for FREE! I LOVE THAT!!!

Finally a Phone that Lasts
I purchased this phone up around Dec 2003, and as of Feb 2005 this phone is just as fabulous as it was the first day of purchase! I've had many phones over the years and I never considered myself rough or tough on my cell but somehow after 3-4 months the phone became utterly useless making me regret getting the "deal" phone. You know the phone that just happens to be on sale and is practically the same price as it would take for a pair of movie tickets.

I found with other phones dropped signals grew rampant shortly after purchase, and battery life decreased to about 2 short length phone calls. But with this phone, the standby power lets this phone last up to atleast 2 days full power, so I can actually make phone calls while not at home tied to the base or in the car connected to the charger!

I personally don't feel that I needed a camera or even worse video capabilities with my cell BUT I need a speakerphone. I'm not a fan of headsets, and since it's now against the law (in my area of the country) to drive with a phone in the drivers hand, the speakerphone option is excellent. This cell totally delivers with the speaker, and 90% of the time the person on the other side of the call doesn't even realize that they're on speaker! Plus they can actually understand what you're saying even if you're not close!

Sadly I wish they hadn't discontinued this phone. It's a beautiful phone with the crystal clear screen. Quite a preformer a year later!

Not Worth It!
The phone has a ton of features and if it worked as it is supposed to, it would be a great phone.I was pulled in by the blue color.However, the phone has major power issues.My first one kept losing power and cutting off as if the battery had been disconnected.The second, a refurbished replacement, would not take a charge...so after two days with that one, I'm off to get a third one.There are cheaper phones that are much more reliable, and that you will be more satisfied with. ... Read more

Asin: B00004W3HO
Subjects:  1. Sprint PCS Wireless Web   

Toshiba SD-1600 DVD Player
by Toshiba
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $249.95
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Toshiba's SD-1600 further refines the stellar model for DVD qualitypioneered with the company's popular SD-3109 and SD-1200. Among the SD-1600'sstandout features are composite-video, S-Video, and ColorStream component-videooutputs; Dolby Digital and DTS 5.1-channel digital outputs; 10-bit, 27 MHz videodigital-to-analog converters; and high-resolution (24 bits, 96 kHz) digital-audio converters.

ColorStream component-video connectors, located on most Toshiba DVD-videoplayers and TVs, send an extremely high-quality signal from the DVD player tothe TV. Typical NTSC artifacts--like video noise and dot crawl--are virtuallyeliminated in this connection method, resulting in a low-noise, high-detailpicture with astounding color purity.

For video purists, the SD-1600 also offers PLUGE, a feature granting the playerthe ability to pass below-black (or blacker-than-black) signals, which in turnlets you accurately set black levels on your monitor--critical in a hometheater. This player is also DVD and CD Text compatible, so if you're using a DVD Text- or CD Text-encoded disc, the player will display disc and song titles for your convenience.

A convenient feature called parallel video output lets you connect your ToshibaDVD player via composite-, component-, and/or S-Video outputs and watchsimultaneous images from each connected TV or monitor. This is ideal formultiroom applications. ... Read more

Features

• DVD/CD Text compatible
• Dolby Digital and DTS digital output
• S-video and ColorStream component-video outputs
• 10-bit, 27 MHz video digital-to-audio converter with high-resolution filter
• Video black-level expansion

Reviews (110)

Long time owner
I have had the Toshiba SD-1600 for a few years now.We have never had any trouble playing dvd's on it.I'm looking for another dvd player. (This one for my daughter.) I was going to get one with a little newer technology, but after reading reviews on so many different brands I think I might buy another one of these.I was disappointed with how many brands seemed to die in the first year.If you are looking for a dependable dvd player this one would be a good choice.

Solid piece of equipment
I don't know much about electronics, but I bought this machine over a year ago and it works great.I bought a television with component video on a friend's recommendation (he does know something about electronics) and the picture is UNBELIEVABLY BEAUTIFUL :-) I do know a lot about movies and I LOVE watching letterboxed DVDs on this machine.

I gave it 4 stars because I mean, it's only a DVD player.I don't know what it would have to do to get a fifth star, but it's a ... good machine and that this price, ridiculously cheap.Why waste hundreds of dollars when this perfectly fine machine is only 80 (it was 120 when I bought it).

I'm buying my sister one for Christmas

Good for some, not for others
I've had this player for the better part of a year.

Pros:
Good picture quality
Great fast forward speed
Some nice features
Decent price

Cons:
Will not play anything on recorded media DVD +-R or +-RW
Will not play VCD or SVCD's

Overall, I loved the basic features of this player, but had to retire it as I was recording movies from a mini DV camera and could not get them to play at all.Toshiba says that there is no fix for this and that you need to get a new player.

If you do not care at all about media that you record yourself, this is an excellent player. ... Read more

Asin: B00004YMBK
Subjects:  1. SD1600    2. DVD Player (Digital Versatile Disc Players)