Party Grill® 400 CV Gas Stove

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We recently been out an about and have tested another amazing stove, this time, we have given the Campingaz Party Grill 400 CV! It is a powerful little stove that offers campers a choice of 5 different cooking surfaces, perfect for the outdoors! The Party Grill 400 CV allows you to pan cook, BBQ on the cooking grill, the reversible grill, use the griddle palate and the lid even doubles up as a wok for noodles!

You can light the stove with the piezo ignition and the water compartment that is integrated into the grill collects the fat for easy cleaning! It’s ultra portable and has a lockable lid. It even comes with a little handy carry bag! You can use compact and portable CV300+ and CV470+ gas cartridges on the stove.

Easy to Clean

The Campingaz 400 CV is really easy to clean, not only because the water compartment allows for easy cleaning of any grease and fat, but it also helps to prevent it to stick to the stove. When you are finished you can discard the dirty water and rinse off the rest with soapy water. The pan support, grids and griddles are dishwasher safe and can easily be cleaned with a sponge. This is because of it’s non-stick surfaces.

Easy Clic® Plus – Campingaz® patented valve cartridge connection

So, the Campingaz Party Grill 400 CV uses the Easy Clic Plus system. The connection system is made for valve cartridges instead of a screw system. Simply push and rotate the cartridge by 45 degrees to get it connected.

1- Push: Applying a small amount of pressure to connect the device with the cartridge.
2 –Turn: Apply a 45° left turn and device and cartridge are firmly connected! Valve cartridges featuring also a self-sealing valve, they can be disconnected and reconnected even when not empty!

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Lexus Mindfulness

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Lexus have created a range of music tracks to help aid mindfulness. This is while in or out of the car. All of the sounds are carefully crafted sounds. Car sounds that is. Such as seatbelt clicks, tailgate warning bells and adjustable seat motors from Lexus Cars.

The track can be streamed for free on Spotify: Lexus Mindfulness Tracks

Lexus Releases Car-generated Soundtracks to Aid Mindfulness

Lexus cars are known for a meticulous attention to detail. This includes developing and improving the sounds that Lexus cars make. Also the sound of a door closing has been optimised to have the most pleasing sound. It is known that sounds can influence our well-being and even encourage a positive mood in us.

Lexus has kept this in mind and produced a range of music tracks. Helping to aid mindfulness while in or out of the car. While many would think instruments would be used. The tracks consist entirely of carefully crafted sounds from a variety of Lexus Cars. All were recorded in a studio and then mixed.

So, the sounds that have been used are tailgate warning bells and adjustable seat motors are among the sounds that take the place of drums, cymbals, percussion and keyboards to make up the tracks.

Not what you think…

However, it’s not as literal as you may be thinking as the sounds have all been engineered to sound exactly like chilled mindful tracks. The tracks sound really good and the sounds that were used. Such as tailgate warning sounds and seat motors for example, have been crafted to sound like a piece of music and not simply tailgate sounds.

Lexus Mindfulness Teacher

Christoph Spiessens is a certified mindfulness teacher, learning and development and coach who has been people cultivate calm. He also helps people to cultivate calm, confidence and mediation and workshops for over 15 years.

He explains…

He’s working with Lexus on projects for several years and provided guidance on how the soundtracks can help promote mindfulness.  Explaining:

“Music has the power to stimulate emotions, affect blood pressure and heart rate and improve mental alertness. Mindfulness practice helps us become aware of our immediate reactions and judgements, and this increased awareness creates a helpful pause; a space from which we can choose to respond instead of react.

The Lexus mindfulness tracks, through a huge array of interesting sound effects and melodies, provide the opportunity to notice our initial reactivity to these intriguing soundscapes as well as the tendency of our mind to label these sounds or be carried away by the music.

These extraordinary compositions offer a refreshing way to befriend our minds and thus enhance our wellbeing. They can be used while driving, to practise ‘mindful listening,’ but of course they should not be used for mindfulness meditation when at the wheel.  

Cont…

“A beautiful foundational attitude from the world of mindfulness is called a ’Beginner’s Mind‘ (“shoshin” in Japanese, from Zen Buddhism),”

“By bringing a beginner’s mind to the experience of listening to any of these tracks, we make a conscious choice to listen with an open and curious attitude, making a commitment to approach our experience as if we are hearing these sounds for the first time, with full awareness of our preconceptions which will undoubtedly crop up. This enables us to discover new things and become aware of the reactivity of our minds.” 

When listening to Lexus Mindfulness

He asks listeners when listening to Lexus Mindfulness:

  • Notice what mood or frame of mind you are in right now?’ This is about music as a vehicle for self-awareness.
  • Also, notice your eagerness to play a track. The mind is always making predications, it wants to know. Think about your breathing for a few moments. Mindfulness is, in a way, “heartfulness,”  (‘Nen’ is Mindfulness in Japanese and teaches us to ‘stay in the moment’) and means establishing a connection between mind and body.
  • When the music starts, notice the mind’s reactivity. Can you “be” with the raw experience of these interesting sounds; the sensory qualities, such as pitch, loudness?
  • How about your emotions, do they change during the track? Are you able to keep focused on the music or does your mind wander? All these questions are at the very core of mindfulness practice: non-judgemental noticing and present-moment awareness.

 

The Lexus mindfulness tracks – Breakdown

Calming Duet of Seat Motor and Tailgate Warning Bell

This two-and-a-half-minute track opens with the gentle hum of the Lexus RX L seven-seat SUV’s adjustable seat motor and then a simple melody is overlaid featuring different notes from the tailgate warning bell.

Tonal elements are provided by the RX L adjustable seat motors and the Lexus NX SUV’s power-assisted steering system, while the melody is from the RX L power tailgate warning bell. Spiessens comments:

 “I believe this track is well suited for ‘mindfulness of breathing’ practice. It is my favourite Lexus track and the calmest and I listen to it when I need a moment to collect my thoughts, before or after an important meeting, or before I switch off my computer after a busy day. I like how the track begins with a sound similar to that of an engine rumbling which soon fades (like the mind stilling) and is followed by simple bell-like sounds and a celestial soundscape.

Lexus Uplifting Idle Engine

The main melodic riff from this catchy tune consists of an RX L engine idling, accompanied by the raw sound of Lexus LC 500 coupe window motors. ‘Stabs’ (single staccato notes/chords that add dramatic punctuation to a musical piece) which sound like steel drums, are actually the sound of an LC window motor.

For the percussion elements the kick drums are the Lexus UX SUV sun visor closing, together with the sound of an RX L engine bay being hit with a soft beater, while the ‘snare drums’ are the LC seatbelt latch and door close, plus the RX L power button. Clicks and snaps are provided by various LC 500 switches.

The tonal elements consist of the plucky percussive xylophone-type sounds from a soft beater hitting sections of an LC chassis. Special effects consist of the tonal electronic buzzing from an RX L ignition sequence recorded under the bonnet. Spiessens comments: “

This track is upbeat from the start and offers many different sound effects. ‘Hedonic tone’ in psychology, is a very important foundation of mindfulness. We tend to immediately evaluate the bare qualities of an experience, the primary appraisal. ‘Vedanā’ (an ancient term that means feeling or sensation) arises when our senses, but also the mind, meet an experience, therefore including physical sensations and emotions.

‘Vedanā’ is important because the more we are consciously aware of how we interpret something (as pleasant, unpleasant or neutral), the more we can be in control of how we respond more mindfully.”

Lexus Rhythmic Warmth from Screen Spray 

This track centres on the rhythmic mechanical swooshing sound of Lexus RX L windscreen wipers and spray. Percussion elements, or ‘kick drums,’ are from the sounds of an LC boot closing, and the ‘snare drums’ are the sound of a Lexus UX door closing. The ‘hi-hats’ (clap from two cymbals) are provided by the sound of an LC passenger window motor.

For the tonal elements, the bass is an LC infotainment bell layered with the LC window motor. The ‘marimba-esque’ melodic lead line is formed by the Park Assistance Brake of a Lexus NX. At 0.45 seconds you can hear the pitchy tone provided by the UX electric windows.

The special effects elements are the wooshes and sweeps provided by the RX L air conditioning system. Spiessens comments:

“This is by far the most ‘techno’ track of them all and is one that I believe could be useful to listen to while driving, as it could enhance focus and therefore a better driving performance.”

Lexus Infotainment Groove

This four-minute track is one of the most complex of the Lexus mindfulness tracks, featuring sounds from multiple Lexus vehicles as various relays and motors spring into action. The percussion elements or ‘kick drums’ are the sound of a Lexus LC Coupe seat being slapped and the ‘claps’ are the clicks of an LC fuel cap being closed.  Extra Percussion sounds are from LC seat switches and the UX power button.

The lead melody consists of a selection tone from a Lexus infotainment system, while the bass is the sound of the Lexus UX adjustable steering column which has been lowered in pitch.  At 0:40 seconds you can hear harmonic elements being introduced, which are provided by the clicks from the UX ignition sequence which were recorded under the bonnet. The ‘wooshes’ are from the RX L air-conditioning system. Spiessens comments:

 “This is a longer track, which is great for practising sustained attention on breathing. It instantly catches your attention and builds anticipation.  Does your mind fill in the bass ahead of the actual bass drop?”

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Primus Onja Stove

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We recently tested and cooked successfully with the Primus Onja Stove! It is a fantastic little device and perfect for those that love the good outdoors!

It is a unique and compact stove that is perfect for camping. As it is a 2 burner stove that is easy to carry around and perfect for urban explorers to the park or even if you go trips on the canoe. Obviously don’t use it on the canoe though! Use it on the beach!

The base of it expands to create a stable two burner cooking surface and can be adjusted individually and can boil water in less than 4 minutes. As it comes with 2800W flames! Each burner connects directly to the gas canister and is protected by the base.

However to cook with both the burners are the same time, you will need 2 gas canisters. An oak lid protects the burners when packed away and not in use. Furthermore the oak lid can be used as a cutting board or a serving platter when in food prep mode.

The side panel fabric is made of durable G1000 and is detachable making cleaning spills so much easier. The carry strap is intergrated for hands free transport, so can easily carry it on trips. The Onja Duo comes with a valve connection that allows the 2 burner stove to be used with a variety of gas canisters both threaded (Lindal) and non-threaded canister valves.

Primus Onja Stove Features

  • Integrated carry strap for hands-free transport
  • Gas canister attaches directly to each burner allowing you to cook multiple pots at different temperatures
  • Base extends to become a stable cooking foundation that protects the burners from the wind
  • Detachable base fabric made of G1000 is easy to clean
  • Oak lid double as a cutting board or serving platter
  • Available in Duo, fitting both threaded (Lindal) and non-threaded canister valves
  • Invented in Sweden, made in Europé
  • Gas NOT included

(Primus)

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Blue Yeti

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Blue Yeti makes it easy to record amazing recordings with your computer with the Yeti family of USB microphones. Blue Yeti does this with thanks to the proprietary tri-capsyle technology. The Blue Yeti condenser microphones producer some amazing sound quality. With pristine, studio quality with amazing ease.

There are 4 different settings to offer flexibility so you can record vocals for music, podcasts and Twitch Streaming. Even use it for YouTube videos or cryptozoology lectures. Blue Yeti lets you produce amazing studio quality recordings every time, wherever you are.

Plenty to choose from…

Blue Microphones’ proprietary tri-capsule technology gives you four distinct pattern modes to choose from:

Blue Yeti Recording Control

Furthermore there is even more control for the user. You can control the headphone volume, pattern selection, instant mute and microphone gain, right from the mic. If you experience distortion or feedback, simply adjust the sensitivity with the gain control. Want to take a break in the middle of a podcast, use the instant suite button!

Blue Yeti USB computer microphone comes equipped with a 3.5mm headphone jack, so you can listen to what you’re recording in real time. Without delay. You can even adjust the volume of the headset with the control on the front of the mic.

The Design

The Blue Yeti is a robust microphone. It lets you adjust and pivot the mic in relation to the sound source and this optimises the sound quality. Achieve the desired angle and simply hand tighten the set knobs to secure it in place. It is a side address microphone so capture the best sound by going face to face with it. It can be folded down for portability and even removed from the base. So you can use it on a mic stand or on the Radius II shockmount.

Blue Yeti Ease of Use

The USB Blue Yeti Mic was designed with a no hassle easy to use workflow. Set up is in seconds with the desktop microphone stand. Adjust the microphone gain, pick up pattern, headphone volume, mute/unmute right from the mic. Simply plug and play!

The Yeti is a side-address microphone. A side-address microphone accepts sound from an angle perpendicular to the mic—as opposed to a front-address mic, which accepts sound from the “end” of the microphone.

(Blue)

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Printer Toner $126M Fraud!

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Printer toner can get expensive, so you’d do anything to buy it at a rather cheap rate right? Well federal prosecutors for a $126M printer toner fraud say the sales pitch went like this. “The price of printer toner has gone up, but customers can lock in at the lower rate they’ve been paying for the office supply.”

However, but the time that thousands of small businesses, charities and other companies had purchased orders for toner. The expensive toner which is used by many laser printers, photocopy machines, had seen the fine print it was too late for them.

Over a number of years

It turns out that they had been conned out of over $126M over 6 years, stating that the scheme had actually gone on for a number of decades according to the Justice Department.

The man, who prosecutors in the US say that the mastermind of the scheme was sent to federal prison for 4 years. Followed by 2 years of home confinement. The scheme consisted of telemarketers misrepresentation that they were affiliated with actual suppliers of printer toners. Forcing victims to pay for supplies that they didn’t actually need.

How?

The mastermind, Gilbert N. Michaels, was found guilty in 2019, which prosectors say that they defrauded more than 50,000 victims and led to the convictions of 6 other people. Sentencing was delayed due to COVID.

Michaels, 79, was owner and president of Mytel International, the telemarketing company involved in the scheme. He was also owner and president of IDC Servco, which fulfilled orders for the printer towner. According to a 2016 indictment.

Prosecutors say that both companies misled victims into believing they were connected with existing suppliers of their printer toner. Which many of them already receiving at no additional charge as part of the lease agreements for office equipment.

Federal prosecutors say that IDC Servco employees threatened to use a collections agency or take legal action if they refused to pay for the invoices of printer toner. Other cases victims were charged onerous restocking fees if they tried to return the toner, prosecutors said.

Sentencing

“Mr. Michaels led a conspiracy whose deceptive practices were particularly harmful to the small-business community,” Ciaran McEvoy, a spokesman for the U.S. attorney’s office in Los Angeles, said an email to the New York Times. “We will continue to vigorously prosecute these kinds of cases and obtain justice for victims.”

A lawyer for Mr. Michaels, who remains free because of medical reasons, said in a phone interview with the New York Times, that his client would appeal his sentence and conviction.

“We felt that the charges were overblown, for lack of a better term,” said the lawyer, Joel Levine.

Also, Mr Michaels was found by a federal jury, guilty, of 1 count of conspiracy to commit mail fraud, 10 counts of mail fraud and 5 counts of money laundering. The trial lasted 6 weeks.

Printer Toner Fines and Prison

So, Michaels has been ordered to pay a $200,000 fine and report to federal prison by Nov 1st. Michaels has several several medical conditions. Which include chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. He had a net worth of $6.7 million, according to the minutes of the trial.

Mr Michaels and 20 others accused of being connected to the scheme in 2016. After arrest the Huntington Beach Police Department called it “Operation Tone It Down.” While authorities had said at the time that Michaels was warned about deceptive telemarketing practices.

While, TonerNews.com, a website devoted to writing about printing supplies, called Mr. Michaels “the California toner pirate godfather”.

(NYT)

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Poly Network Reverse Hack

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Poly Network were a part of one of the most bizarre hacks ever. Poly Network recently announced that a hacker had stolen around $600m worth of various cryptocurrencies. But they were soon returned. All of the stolen funds, save for assets frozen in the immediate aftermath of the hack.

“At this point, all the user assets that were transferred out during the incident have been fully recovered. Thanks to Mr. White Hat’s cooperation, Poly Network has officially entered the fourth phase of our roadmap ‘Asset Recovery.’ We are in the process of returning full asset control to users as swiftly as possible,”

“Once again, we would like to thank Mr. White Hat for keeping his promise, as well as the community, partners and the multiple security agencies for their assistance.”

Poly Network, a decentralised finance (DeFi) platform, wrote in a blog post.

Poly Network said that an unknown hacker had exploited vulnerabilities in it’s platform and stolen the cash in one of the largest cryptocurrency heists in known history. But what makes this story bizarre is that the company pleaded with the hacker in an open letter. They addressed them as “Dear Hacker” and the digital burglar strangely announced that they’d return the cryptocurrency.

Poly Network promised the hacker, who they addressed as “Mr White Hat” after they posted missives to the blockchain. Claiming to be a good actor who was helping the Poly Network, as they found a vulnerability. A reward of $500,000. So, even after offering them a cash reward they offered them a position as “Chief Security Advisor”.

The hacker had stolen funds from a sleuth of cryptocurrency chains. Such as Ethereum Blockchain, Binance Smart Chain and the Polygon Blockchain. While the only funds that weren’t returned yet, according to the Poly Network, are $33M in Tether Stablecoins. Which were frozen by the company that manages them.

Still In Trouble?

However, the hacker has now returned the proceeds of their heist. But, it’s possible the FBI will still go after them. An FBI spokesperson said that the bureau “is aware of the situation and has no further comment to offer.”

Furthermore the hacker has since announced that they were also returning the $500,000 bounty from the Poly Network. The hacker wrote in a message

“KEEP CALM AND THIS IS THE HAPPY ENDING! I HAVE TO ADMIT THAT MY WILD OR MAD BEHAVIORS HAVE LED CRISES TO YOUR PROJECT, YOUR TEAM AND EVEN YOUR LIVES,”  to the Poly Network. “I’M QUITTING THE SHOW. BELIEVE IT OR NOT, I HAVE NEVER CONSIDERED THE SHARED WALLET AS THE ‘HOSTAGE’ FOR RANSOM. AS YOU MAY HAVE NOTICED, I HAVE POURED YOUR BOUNTY AND MY COMPENSATION FUND FROM DONATIONS INTO THE SHARED MULTISIG WALLET.” 

“YOUR CHIEF SECURITY ADVISOR.” 

(Vice)

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FireCuda Gaming Hard Drive

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Seagate have announced an amazing FireCuda Gaming Hard Drive, they are both external solutions and they’re designed for gamers who want more from their gaming rigs. With high performing, mass capacity upgrades in a sleek enclosure.

The FireCuda Gaming Hard Drive looks really cool. It features a RGB LED lighting which is fully customisable. Gamers can customise it through Seagate’s Toolkit software for an epic gaming atmosphere. The customisability with the RGB compatibility to synchronise a users Chroma enabled gaming peripherals.

The lightweight FireCuda Gaming Hard Drive has 3.2 Gen 1 connections for easy to use and universal compatibility. Giving it quick transfer speeds and is USB bus-powered making it perfect for gaming on the go. While also making it fantastic for power saving capabilities. It is available in capacities of 1TB (£59.99), 2TB (£84.99), and 5TB (£139.99).

Purchase a FireCuda Gaming Hard Drive here!

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iPhone 13 – A HUGE Cinematic Upgrade

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iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 mini are the next generations of smartphones from Apple. There is a beautiful design with sleek flat edges. Both models comes with a brand new advanced dual camera system ever on iPhone. With a new wide camera with bigger pixels and sensor shift image stabilisation. Allowing for improvements in low light photos and videos. New personalisation with the camera with Photographic Styles and Cinematic mode. A15 Bionic also allows for a longer battery life, brighter Super Retina XDR display, new durable Ceramic Shield front cover, double entry level storage at 128gb and IP68 rating for water resistance.

iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 mini are available in Pink, Blue, Midnight, Starlight, and (PRODUCT)RED.

Design

Both the iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 mini have amazing Ceramic Shield exclusive to iPhone and tougher than any other smartphone glass. Both of the 6.1inch and 5.4inch displays are safe. They also have IP68 water resistance rating and are designed to protect from spills and common liquids. A new redesigned rear camera with diagonally arranged lenses enables the advance dual camera system. A redesigned TrueDepth camera system is smaller while still packing the same tech as before, but it’s smaller. Allowing Face ID but offering more display area.

Super Retina XDR OLED

The Super Retina XDR OLED display has been improved to deliver a 28% increase in max outdoor brightness at 800 nits, higher peak brightness for HDR content like photos and videos at 1200 nits.

Battery has been improved thanks to the A15 Bionic. More efficient components, a larger battery, and power optimisations. iPhone 13 will deliver an all-day battery, offering up to 2 1/2 more hours in a day than iPhone 12. While iPhone 13 mini will provide up to 1 1/2 more hours in a day than iPhone 12 mini.

Camera

Cameras on the iPhone and iPhone 13 mini have a massive upgrade. There’s a new Wide camera with 1.7 µm pixels, combined with the biggest sensor ever in an iPhone dual-camera system. It will allow for 47% more light for less noise and brighter results. Sensor-shift OIS, the same tech introduced in iPhone 12 Pro Max, also comes to the Wide Camera. Even in the iPhone 13 mini. Stabilises the sensor instead of the lens so shots are more steady. While the custom -designed Ultra Wide camera with a new sensor captures images with more detail in the dark areas of photos and videos with less noise.

Cinematography

Apple done an extensive study of cinematography and the powerful use of rack focus, Cinematic mode on iPhone records videos of people, pets, and objects with a beautiful depth effect with automatic focus changes, so anyone can capture cinema-style moments, even if they aren’t a professional filmmaker.

While you can also adjust the focus during and after capture. Changing the level of the bokeh in the photos app and iMovie for iOS. While this adjustment will also soon come to iMovie for MacOS and Final Cut Pro. Cinematic mode records in Dolby Vision HDR. With both models offering HDR video recording with Dolby Vision. Support for 4K up to 60fps on all cameras.

A faster Neural Engine in A15 Bionic, new image signal processor and advancements in computational photography power all-new features on iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 mini.

Photography Styles

Photographic Styles allows for users to bring their own personal photo style to every image. Preset and customised preferences work across scenes and subjects, more than just a filter. Intelligently applying the right adjustments to different parts of the photo. While ensuring important parts are preserved, such as a persons skin tone.

The dual camera system and  power of computational photography support Smart HDR 4, now with improved colour, contrast, and lighting for each subject in a group photo, including in challenging conditions, making images more true to life, as well as improved Night mode. And the TrueDepth camera supports all the amazing new camera features, including Cinematic mode, Photographic Styles, Smart HDR 4, and more.

A15 Bionic

A15 Bionic is much faster than the competition delivering a much improved performance and power efficiency making everything fluid in iPhone 13. The 6-Core CPU has 2 high performance cores and 4 high efficiency cores and is up to 50% faster than the competition. While the new 4-core GPU is up to 30% faster than the competition. Allowing for more lifelike visuals and improved lighting effects in graphics intensive games.

The new 16-core Neural Engine is capable of faster machine learning for features such as the Live Text in Camera in iOS15.

5G

5G is also on the new iPhone 13 transforming the way users share, connect and enjoy content.

Users can experience higher-quality video streaming on their favourite platforms, more competitive gameplay in multi-player games, faster download and upload speeds, and so much more.

(Apple)

iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max

The iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max are the top of the range models for this years iPhones.

Both models feature the all new Super Retina XDR Display with ProMotion, featuring adaptive refresh rate of up to 120Hz. Pro camera system has brand new Ultra Wide, Wide and Telephoto cameras that capture amazing photos and videos. All powered by the amazing A15 Bionic. With macro photography coming to the iPhone for the first time on the Ultra Wide camera and up to 2.2x improved low-light performance on the new Wide camera.

Photography

Computational photography features such as Photographic Styles personalise the look of images in the camera app. With both models now having Night mode on all cameras. Video takes a huge leap with Cinematic mode for beautiful depth of field transitions, macro video, Time-lapse and slow mo and better low-light performance.

Both models offer end to end pro workflows in Dolby Vision and ProRes. iPhone and iPhone 13 Pro Max also have 5G. There are also big improvements to the battery life and a new max storage to 1TB and the Ceramic Shield front cover.

Phone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max will be available in four stunning finishes, including Graphite, Gold, Silver, and the all-new Sierra Blue. Pre-orders begin Friday, September 17, with availability beginning Friday, September 24.

Cameras

There is new sensors and lenses for all 3 rear cameras, powered by the new image processor in the A15 Bionic for improved noise reduction and tone mapping. The all-new Wide camera has a larger sensor with 1.9 µm pixels. For far less noise and faster shutter speeds needed across lighting conditions.

Coupled with the larger ƒ/1.5 aperture, the Wide camera on iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max offers a massive improvement in low-light situations, up to 2.2x when compared to iPhone 12 Pro, and nearly 1.5x when compared to iPhone 12 Pro Max. Sensor-shift optical image stabilisation (OIS) — unique to iPhone. Is available on both models, stabilising the sensor instead of the lens, so images are smooth and video is steady, even when the user is not.

Ultra Wide

New Ultra Wide camera features a wider  ƒ/1.8 aperture and a new autofocus system, bringing a 92 percent improvement for low-light environments, producing images that are brighter and sharper.

The new lens design has autofocus capability for the first time on the Ultra Wide on iPhone. While the software on iPhone allows for macro photography. Users can capture sharp, stunning images, magnifying subjects with a minimum focus distance of 2cm. You can also use macro to video including Slow-Mo and Time-Lapse. The Telephoto camera is now 77m, allowing users to get closer to the subjects while recording video. You can also achieve even more classically framed portraits, offering 3x optical zoom for a total 6x optical zoom range on the camera system.

Photography Styles

A faster Neural Engine in A15 Bionic, new ISP, and advancements in computational photography power the all-new camera features on iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max. Photographic Styles allows users to bring their personal photo preferences to every image.

Preset and customised preferences work across scenes and subjects, and unlike a filter, intelligently apply the right adjustments to different parts of the photo to ensure the important elements, like skin tones, are preserved.

Night Mode comes to all cameras on iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 Pro Max, with Smart HDR 4, users can expect improved colour, contrast and lighting for subjects. Even in group shots or challenging lighting situations. iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max also has the same features you all love such as Deep Fusion, Apple ProRAW, and Portrait mode with Portrait Lighting.

Video

There is a brand new Cinematic mode on iPhone allow for a beautiful depth effect with automatic focus changes. Therefore allowing for cinematic style content creation. Focus can also be changed during and after the capture on Photos and iMovie on iOS. Coming soon to iMac on MacOS and Final Cut Pro. Enabled by A15 Bionic and advanced machine learning algorithms, Cinematic mode records in Dolby Vision HDR.

Separate to the iPhone 13, the iPhone 13 Pro / Pro Max can shoot in ProRes an advanced video codec used for commercials, films and TV broadcasts. Offering higher colour fidelity and less compression. Helped by the new camera hardware, advanced video encoders and decoders and the A15 Bionic and flash storage pipeline. iPhone is the only smartphone in the world to provide an end-to-end workflow — capture, edit, and share in Dolby Vision or ProRes.

Super Retina XDR

iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max has a Super Retina XDR with ProMotion, supporting an adaptive refresh rate from 10Hz to 120Hz. Allowing users to have fast frame rates when users need it. Intelligently preserving battery life when they don’t. Making everything feel more responsive as a result.

While the display is the brightest ever at up to 25% higher max outdoor brightness at 1000nits. Allowing users to experience amazing resolution, colour, and contrast whether casually scrolling through the web or watching HDR videos.

Redesign

The new Pro lineup has a new premium flat-edge design, crafted with surgical grade stainless steel band. The finish is resistant to abrasion and corrosion with a textured matte glass back. Both models are protected by the Ceramic Shield front cover, exclusive to iPhone. Which is tougher than any other smartphone glass, offering great durability and drop performance. The screen also has a 20% smaller area to house the TrueDepth camera system, allowing for more screen real estate.

Battery life is much improved, iPhone 13 Pro will last up to 1 1/2 hours longer than iPhone 12. While iPhone 13 Pro Max will last up to 2 1/2 hours longer than the iPhone 12 Pro Max.

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California Streaming: Everything Apple Announced

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Apple announced loads at their California Streaming event yesterday, so let’s start off from the top:

California Streaming: Apple Fitness+

Guided Meditation

Apple Fitnees+ is getting Guided Meditation. Building on the popularity of Mindful Cooldowns in Fitness+, Guided Meditation helps users develop a regular meditation routine. Therefore helping to improve their sense of well-being. Users can select from different themes such as Purpose, Kindness, Gratitude, Awareness, Creativity, Wisdom, Calm, Focus, and Resilience. There will be a video experience alongside the Fitness+ trainers. While each practice can be 5, 10 or 20 minutes long.

Audio Meditation

Furthermore to the video experience, same meditations will be available in audio form on the Mindfulness app on the Apple Watch. With Watch OS8, Breathe app becomes the Mindfulness app. Featuring an enhanced Breathe experience. A new session called Reflect and Fitness+ Guided Meditations. Users will be able to track their meditation while moving in the workout app on the Apple Watch while doing their meditation. Allowing you to meditate while walking, hiking or stretching.

For those just getting started, a new Meditation for Beginners programme will help users understand the fundamentals before diving into the studio sessions.

Pilates

Pilates will now be added to Fitness+ as a new low-impact workout type. Providing users with more options to improve their strength and flexibility. While most Fitness+ Pilates workouts can be done on a mat, many others also incorporate the use of a resistance band. Pilate workouts can be 10, 20 or 30 minutes long.

(Apple)

California Streaming: iPad Upgrades

The 10.2-inch iPad is Apple’s most popular iPad and now it comes with A13 Bionic, Centre Stage, True Tone, and more storage.

The 9th generation iPad now has a powerful A13 Bionic chip, making it super fast and capable. A 10.2″ display with True Tone, a new 12MP Ultra Wide camera with Centre Stage, support for the 1st Generation Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard and twice the storage options. It is available to order today and will be available on Friday September 24th at £319.

A13 Bionic

The new iPad comes with the A13 Bionic, making it 20% perform better than previous. Making it 3x as faster than the best selling Chromebook and up to 6x faster than the best selling Android tablet. Allowing for seamless transition between apps and games. The Neural Engine in A13 Bionic also powers the machine learning capabilities including Live Text in iPadOS 15.

Front Camera

Center Stage comes to the iPad, thanks to the new 12MP Ultra Wide front camera and Neural Engine. As users move around Centre Stage will automatically pan to keep them in view. If others join in the camera detects them too and smoothly zooms out to keep them in the conversation.

Display

True Tone comes to the iPad for the first time. A new upgraded ambient light sensor enables True Tone. Adjusting the screen content to the colour temperature of the room. Making images more natural and provides for a better viewing experience.

Storage

Storage has also been upgraded and begins at 64gb, while going all the way up to 256gb for those looking for more.

(Apple)

California Streaming: iPad Mini

Apple have redesigned the iPad mini. It now has a full screen 8.3 inch Liquid Retina display and comes in 4 finishes. It also has the new A15 Bionic Chip, and delivers up to 80% new faster performance. USB C allows for faster connectivity, cellular models bring 5g, new advanced cameras, Centre Stage and support for the 2nd generation Apple Pencil. New iPad mini is available to order today and will be in stores September 24th.

New Display

The new iPad mini comes in Pink, Starlight, Purple and Space Grey. Features a full screen 8.3″ Liquid Retina display with narrow borders whilst remaining mini. It has 500 nits of brightness, a P3 wide colour gamut, anti-reflective screen coating, True Tone and full lamination. Landscape stereo speakers combined with the new display makes it great for viewing videos and movies.

The new screen display is enabled by moving the Touch ID to the top button of the iPad mini. iPad mini now supports Apple Pencil 2nd gen too.

A15 Bionic

The new A15 Bionic Chip allows for an all-day battery life. The 6-core CPU delivers a 40% upgrade in performance, 5 Core GPU delivers an 80% increase in graphics performance compared to previous generations. It can play games effortlessly and switch between apps seamlessly.

Advanced machine learning functions are powered by a 16 core Neural Engine and new ML accerlators in the CPU. Helping to deliver 2x faster ML tasks than previous generations. Combined with the CPU and GPU, the Neural Engine enables apps to deliver next level experiences such as image recognition and natural language learning. Such as Live Text, which uses on-device intelligence to recognise text in photos. Which can also be translated into 7 different languages.

Centre Stage

Centre Stage comes to iPad mini, so users can enjoy more engaging video calls. The upgraded Ultra Wide front camera with a new 12MP sensor and a much larger field of view. The camera will automatically pan the camera to keep viewers in view. While if others join in the camera will zoom out to keep them in too.

The back camera now features a 12MP sensor with a Focus Pixels and a larger aperture to capture sharp, vivid photos. The back camera will also feature a True Tone flash, perfect for capturing images in low light. The A15 Bionic will allow for remarkably natural-looking photos with Smart HDR.

5G and USB C

5G is now on iPad mini, allowing you to reach up to 3.5Gbps in ideal conditions. Users can now stay connected wherever they are. iPad mini also has support for Gigabit LTE and eSIM, iPad mini offers incredible flexibility when users need to get connected. Wi-Fi 6 ensures even faster Wi-Fi connections as well.

iPad mini now features a USB-C port for up to 5Gbps data transfer, which is 10x faster than the previous generation. USB-Connectivity allows for connection to a vast ecosystem of USB-C accessories including cameras and external storage and displays up to 4K.

California Streaming: Apple Watch Series 7

Apple Watch Series 7 has a reengineered Always-On Retina display with a larger screen area, thinner borders making it the largest and most advanced display. Narrower borders on the display maximise the screen area, without touching the dimensions of the watch. It has softer and more rounded corners. The display now has a unique refractive edge that makes full screen watch fasces and apps. Making it appear to seamlessly connect with the curvature of the case. You can also read more on the larger display and has two unique watch faces that makes use of the new display. Contour and Modular Duo. The watch can now charge 33% faster.

It also has a durability upgrade with a more crack resistance front crystal, IPX certification for resistance to dust and a WR50 water resistance rating. The entire Apple Watch Series 7 lineup will be available later this autumn.

Design

The display is 20% larger and thinner borders at just 1.7mm, 40% smaller than that on Series 6. An innovative design maximises the screen area whilst minimally changing the dimensions of the watch itself. The always on display is also now up to 70% brighter indoors than the Apple Watch Series 6. Making it easier to see without having to raise the wrist.

The UI has also been optimised to take advantage of the shape and size of the new display. You can now have two larger font sizes and a new QWERTY keyboard. Which can be tapped or swiped with QuickPath, allowing users to slide a finger to type. It will also use on device machine learning to anticipate the next word based on context.

Durability

Apple Watch Series 7 features a redesigned front crystal. 50% thicker than that of Apple Watch Series 6, making it more crack resistant without compromising optical clarity. It is also IP6X dust-resistant, making it more durable in environments such as the beach or the desert. Also keeping the WR50 water resistance.

Charging

Apple Watch Series 7 has an 18 hour battery life on a single charge and a 33% faster charging compared to Apple Watch Series 6. All through a new charging architecture and Magnetic Fast Charger USB-C Cable.

(Apple)

California Streaming: iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 Mini

iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 mini the next generations of smartphones have been announced. There is a beautiful design with sleek flat edges. Both models comes with a brand new advanced dual camera system ever on iPhone. With a new wide camera with bigger pixels and sensor shift image stabilisation. Allowing for improvements in low light photos and videos. New personalisation with the camera with Photographic Styles and Cinematic mode. A15 Bionic also allows for a longer battery life, brighter Super Retina XDR display, new durable Ceramic Shield front cover, double entry level storage at 128gb and IP68 rating for water resistance.

iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 mini will be available in Pink, Blue, Midnight, Starlight, and (PRODUCT)RED,1 with pre-orders beginning Friday, September 17, and availability beginning Friday, September 24.

Design

Both the iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 mini have amazing Ceramic Shield exclusive to iPhone and tougher than any other smartphone glass. Both of the 6.1inch and 5.4inch displays are safe. They also have IP68 water resistance rating and are designed to protect from spills and common liquids. A new redesigned rear camera with diagonally arranged lenses enables the advance dual camera system. A redesigned TrueDepth camera system is smaller while still packing the same tech as before, but it’s smaller. Allowing Face ID but offering more display area.

Super Retina XDR OLED

The Super Retina XDR OLED display has been improved to deliver a 28% increase in max outdoor brightness at 800 nits, higher peak brightness for HDR content like photos and videos at 1200 nits.

Battery has been improved thanks to the A15 Bionic. More efficient components, a larger battery, and power optimisations. iPhone 13 will deliver an all-day battery, offering up to 2 1/2 more hours in a day than iPhone 12. While iPhone 13 mini will provide up to 1 1/2 more hours in a day than iPhone 12 mini.

Camera

Cameras on the iPhone and iPhone 13 mini have a massive upgrade. There’s a new Wide camera with 1.7 µm pixels, combined with the biggest sensor ever in an iPhone dual-camera system. It will allow for 47% more light for less noise and brighter results. Sensor-shift OIS, the same tech introduced in iPhone 12 Pro Max, also comes to the Wide Camera. Even in the iPhone 13 mini. Stabilises the sensor instead of the lens so shots are more steady. While the custom -designed Ultra Wide camera with a new sensor captures images with more detail in the dark areas of photos and videos with less noise.

Cinematography

Apple done an extensive study of cinematography and the powerful use of rack focus, Cinematic mode on iPhone records videos of people, pets, and objects with a beautiful depth effect with automatic focus changes, so anyone can capture cinema-style moments, even if they aren’t a professional filmmaker.

While you can also adjust the focus during and after capture. Changing the level of the bokeh in the photos app and iMovie for iOS. While this adjustment will also soon come to iMovie for MacOS and Final Cut Pro. Cinematic mode records in Dolby Vision HDR. With both models offering HDR video recording with Dolby Vision. Support for 4K up to 60fps on all cameras.

A faster Neural Engine in A15 Bionic, new image signal processor and advancements in computational photography power all-new features on iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 mini.

Photography Styles

Photographic Styles allows for users to bring their own personal photo style to every image. Preset and customised preferences work across scenes and subjects, more than just a filter. Intelligently applying the right adjustments to different parts of the photo. While ensuring important parts are preserved, such as a persons skin tone.

The dual camera system and  power of computational photography support Smart HDR 4, now with improved colour, contrast, and lighting for each subject in a group photo, including in challenging conditions, making images more true to life, as well as improved Night mode. And the TrueDepth camera supports all the amazing new camera features, including Cinematic mode, Photographic Styles, Smart HDR 4, and more.

A15 Bionic

A15 Bionic is much faster than the competition delivering a much improved performance and power efficiency making everything fluid in iPhone 13. The 6-Core CPU has 2 high performance cores and 4 high efficiency cores and is up to 50% faster than the competition. While the new 4-core GPU is up to 30% faster than the competition. Allowing for more lifelike visuals and improved lighting effects in graphics intensive games.

The new 16-core Neural Engine is capable of faster machine learning for features such as the Live Text in Camera in iOS15.

5G

5G is also on the new iPhone 13 transforming the way users share, connect and enjoy content.

Users can experience higher-quality video streaming on their favourite platforms, more competitive gameplay in multi-player games, faster download and upload speeds, and so much more.

(Apple)

California Streaming: iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max

Apple have announced a brand new set of their top of their line smartphones. The iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max.

Both models feature the all new Super Retina XDR Display with ProMotion, featuring adaptive refresh rate of up to 120Hz. Pro camera system has brand new Ultra Wide, Wide and Telephoto cameras that capture amazing photos and videos. All powered by the amazing A15 Bionic. With macro photography coming to the iPhone for the first time on the Ultra Wide camera and up to 2.2x improved low-light performance on the new Wide camera.

Photography

Computational photography features such as Photographic Styles personalise the look of images in the camera app. With both models now having Night mode on all cameras. Video takes a huge leap with Cinematic mode for beautiful depth of field transitions, macro video, Time-lapse and slow mo and better low-light performance.

Both models offer end to end pro workflows in Dolby Vision and ProRes. iPhone and iPhone 13 Pro Max also have 5G. There are also big improvements to the battery life and a new max storage to 1TB and the Ceramic Shield front cover.

Phone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max will be available in four stunning finishes, including Graphite, Gold, Silver, and the all-new Sierra Blue. Pre-orders begin Friday, September 17, with availability beginning Friday, September 24.

Cameras

There is new sensors and lenses for all 3 rear cameras, powered by the new image processor in the A15 Bionic for improved noise reduction and tone mapping. The all-new Wide camera has a larger sensor with 1.9 µm pixels. For far less noise and faster shutter speeds needed across lighting conditions.

Coupled with the larger ƒ/1.5 aperture, the Wide camera on iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max offers a massive improvement in low-light situations, up to 2.2x when compared to iPhone 12 Pro, and nearly 1.5x when compared to iPhone 12 Pro Max. Sensor-shift optical image stabilisation (OIS) — unique to iPhone. Is available on both models, stabilising the sensor instead of the lens, so images are smooth and video is steady, even when the user is not.

Ultra Wide

New Ultra Wide camera features a wider  ƒ/1.8 aperture and a new autofocus system, bringing a 92 percent improvement for low-light environments, producing images that are brighter and sharper.

The new lens design has autofocus capability for the first time on the Ultra Wide on iPhone. While the software on iPhone allows for macro photography. Users can capture sharp, stunning images, magnifying subjects with a minimum focus distance of 2cm. You can also use macro to video including Slow-Mo and Time-Lapse. The Telephoto camera is now 77m, allowing users to get closer to the subjects while recording video. You can also achieve even more classically framed portraits, offering 3x optical zoom for a total 6x optical zoom range on the camera system.

Photography Styles

A faster Neural Engine in A15 Bionic, new ISP, and advancements in computational photography power the all-new camera features on iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max. Photographic Styles allows users to bring their personal photo preferences to every image.

Preset and customised preferences work across scenes and subjects, and unlike a filter, intelligently apply the right adjustments to different parts of the photo to ensure the important elements, like skin tones, are preserved.

Night Mode comes to all cameras on iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 Pro Max, with Smart HDR 4, users can expect improved colour, contrast and lighting for subjects. Even in group shots or challenging lighting situations. iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max also has the same features you all love such as Deep Fusion, Apple ProRAW, and Portrait mode with Portrait Lighting.

Video

There is a brand new Cinematic mode on iPhone allow for a beautiful depth effect with automatic focus changes. Therefore allowing for cinematic style content creation. Focus can also be changed during and after the capture on Photos and iMovie on iOS. Coming soon to iMac on MacOS and Final Cut Pro. Enabled by A15 Bionic and advanced machine learning algorithms, Cinematic mode records in Dolby Vision HDR.

Separate to the iPhone 13, the iPhone 13 Pro / Pro Max can shoot in ProRes an advanced video codec used for commercials, films and TV broadcasts. Offering higher colour fidelity and less compression. Helped by the new camera hardware, advanced video encoders and decoders and the A15 Bionic and flash storage pipeline. iPhone is the only smartphone in the world to provide an end-to-end workflow — capture, edit, and share in Dolby Vision or ProRes.

Super Retina XDR

iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max has a Super Retina XDR with ProMotion, supporting an adaptive refresh rate from 10Hz to 120Hz. Allowing users to have fast frame rates when users need it. Intelligently preserving battery life when they don’t. Making everything feel more responsive as a result.

While the display is the brightest ever at up to 25% higher max outdoor brightness at 1000nits. Allowing users to experience amazing resolution, colour, and contrast whether casually scrolling through the web or watching HDR videos.

Redesign

The new Pro lineup has a new premium flat-edge design, crafted with surgical grade stainless steel band. The finish is resistant to abrasion and corrosion with a textured matte glass back. Both models are protected by the Ceramic Shield front cover, exclusive to iPhone. Which is tougher than any other smartphone glass, offering great durability and drop performance. The screen also has a 20% smaller area to house the TrueDepth camera system, allowing for more screen real estate.

Battery life is much improved, iPhone 13 Pro will last up to 1 1/2 hours longer than iPhone 12. While iPhone 13 Pro Max will last up to 2 1/2 hours longer than the iPhone 12 Pro Max.

So, keep up to date with everything How To Kill An Hour by signing up to our newsletter by clicking here!

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Rode Wireless GO II

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The Rode Wireless GO II is a fantastic microphone designed to help improve your audio at a fraction of the cost. It’s the world’s smallest and wireless microphone system. It even has a dual channel receiver and two transmitters. Wireless GO II builds on the groundwork that Wireless GO set and makes it even better. Such as universal compatibility with cameras, mobile devices and cameras, an extended range of 200M line of sight, improve transmission stability and on-board recording capabilities.

Amazing versatility is one benefit of the Rode Wireless GO II. It features a 3.5mm TRS analog output so you can plug it into your camera. A USB C digital audio output so you can plug into smartphones, tablets and computers. Making it perfect for the modern content creator, film maker or on stage presenter.

The device also has on-board recording so you don’t need to worry about dropouts. There’s also a flexible gain control allowing you to tailor the output to your device. While the Rode Wireless GO II also lets you record each channel seperately or combine the two. Allowing you to have much more freedom in post production.

Rode Wireless GO II Design

It is the same form factor that was loved in the original Wireless GO. Pocket sized and weighing less than 32g. The device also comes with a carry pouch to keep everything secure and tidy. There is also a clip design making it easy to mount on to clothing or a cold shoe, mobile camera rig, boom pole or other cold shoe accessories.

Ease of use

The Rode Wireless GO II has been designed to give professional sounding audio while being simple to use. The transmitter and receiver come already paired. While the RØDE’s Series IV 2.4GHz digital transmission with 128-bit encryption delivers a range of up to 200m (line of sight). Furthermore the device has been designed to allow for a high level of RF activity, such as dense urban environments, universities or offices.

Each transmitter features a high quality built in omnidirectional condenser capsule for a complete wireless recording. While you can also plug in a cavalier microphone thanks to the 3.5mm TRS input. Not only that the Wireless GO II has a twist and lock furry windshield to record in windy environments!

Rode Central

Rode have even gone one step further and you can adjust everything with the Rode Central app. Set up the device preferences, access, optimise and export recordings, activate and deactivate functions and update your firmware. All from the app, which is available on Mac and Windows.

You can also access a safety channel which records a second track at -20db in case your main audio clips. Furthermore you can activate a mute lock so you never accidentally mute your transmitters and can adjust the gain more finely, expanding the 3 stage pad to a 10 stage pad.

On-Board Recording Safe Recording

Each of the Wireless GO II transmitters has on-board recording with the ability to record over 40 hours of compressed audio and 7 hours of uncompressed audio. When active recording will begin as soon as the transmitters are connected to the receiver. Therefore you will always have a backup of your recording in case you experience audio issues. So, when you load your files in RØDE Central, you’ll be able to see exactly if and where there were any dropouts.

Accessories

One really cool accessory we saw available was the Interview GO. Which is an adaptor which turns the Rode Wireless Go II into a lightweight handheld mic for reporting to camera or interviewing out and about.


Key Features of Rode Wireless GO II:

  • Dual channel wireless microphone system for recording two sound sources simultaneously
  • Series IV 2.4GHz digital transmission, 128-bit encryption – crystal-clear audio at up to 200m (line of sight), optimised for extremely stable operation in dense RF environments
  • 3.5mm TRS analog output, USB-C and iOS digital output – universal compatibility with cameras, mobile devices and computers
  • On-board recording – over 40 hours of internal memory
  • Option to record each channel separately or combine them for ultimate flexibility in post-production
  • Safety channel, flexible gain control (three-stage pad, expandable to 10-stage)
  • In-built rechargeable lithium-ion battery – up to 7 hours battery life
  • Designed and made in RØDE’s precision manufacturing facilities in Australia

(Rode)

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