What would make Dad happier than a 32” plasma television and a year’s worth of Direct TV? What would make junior happier than his own laptop and having Clearwire wireless Internet installed in the house? Techie gifts are far and wide and can range from fairly cost-effective iPod Shuffles and Tom Tom GPS navigators to a whole home theater installed by Hoyt Stereo.
For those interested in the most expensive gift, we sent our shoppers out to find the latest and greatest techie gift ideas. From new things on the market to finding the game system that works best for your recipient, there is plenty to learn and EU is here to do all we can. For instance, you can’t get the latest and greatest high tech gifts without dealing with the big box stores, so we tapped into our resident expert to get some good tips. Learn what you need to know to make your last minute, high-tech shopping as successful as it can be.
by kellie abrahamson kabrahamson1@aol.com
In this day in age everyone has some sort of electronic gadget on their wish list. But while Uncle Joe may want a fancy new plasma screen TV, Aunt Betty may not know the best one to get once she’s standing in that electronics store. Well, for all the Aunt Betties out there, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best tech gifts available today. The recipient of any of these cool gizmos is lucky indeed.
LCD: Sony BRAVIA XBR, 70”- Yes, that’s right, a 70’’ LCD with a 22-watt speaker system including SRS TruSurround XT and an extremely crisp picture. If you really want to go all out and pretend your living room is a movie theater, this is the TV for you. Or you can drive to the movie theater in your brand new 2008 BMW 3-Series. $32,299.98
Samsung LN-T3253H, 32”- This moderately priced LCD produces relatively deep blacks with fine shadow detail, accurate color and slick styling. Lots of different picture controls and a bunch of features and inputs like PC, HDMI and USB. The speakers are tucked away on the side. $1099.99
Olevia 32” 2 Series LCD HDTV- It may not be a sleek and sharp as the higher end LCD’s, but at less $500 it’s a one heck of a deal and the picture is better than the old tube TV you currently have. $479.99
Plasma: LG 71” 1080p Plasma HD Monitor- (pictured to the left) This plasma monitor has an excellent picture and is sure to impress anyone that comes over to your house. It does come with 2 built in speakers and additional audio outputs for your surround sound system. However this is a monitor only, just like your PC, so you will need a tuner of some sort like a cable box. $14,999.98
Pioneer Kuro PDP 5080HD- This 50-inch plasma TV displays an exceedingly deep shade of black with excellent shadow detail, clean image, “smooth” video-processing and removable speakers. With one of the best pictures you will get on a plasma, it will also impress with its sleek look. $3,499.99
Element 42” HDTV- Plasma on a budget. Definitely not the best that the plasma world has to offer but it does but you can’t beat it for the price. It does come with a built in tuner, stereo speakers with simulated surround sound and most of the bells and whistles you get with higher-end plasmas. $999.99
Samsung BD-P1400 Blu-ray Disc Player- This Blu-ray player features Dolby True HD audio and HDMI 1.3 interface. It also includes “DVD Up Conversion” which lets you improve the image quality of your old DVDs. The Ethernet port allows you to get connected to the internet in order to receive upgrades as the format evolves. $499.99
Toshiba HD-A3 HD DVD Player- This HD-DVD player features Dolby True HD, Digital Plus and DTS HD (core only). It will also improve the quality of your old standard DVDs. This player is web-enabled which will give you access to studio-provided HD DVD features, such as the latest movie trailers, downloadable ringtones, interactive games, and music from the movie. $299.99
LG Super Blu High-Definition Multiplayer- If you are having a hard time deciding whether you want Blu-ray or HD DVD, then this is the perfect player for you. Not only does this player allow you to use both formats, you can also watch your old DVDs with better quality and listen to CDs. The LG Super Blu features a USB plug which enables you to plug in your camera to view slideshows or plug in your favorite MP3 player and listen to your favorite songs. All this for just $999.99.
iPods: The iPod Touch- This iPod has a 3.5 inch widescreen color display to watch your favorite movies or videos. Just like the iPhone, it has the multi-touch interface which allows you to do all kinds of things from scrolling to your favorite songs to zooming into your pictures. It’s also Wi-Fi ready which allows you to surf the web and watch funny videos on You Tube. It comes in 2 different sizes, 8GB $299 and 16GB $399.
The iPod Classic- If you’d rather have a hard drive in your pants instead of a 3.5 inch display then this is the iPod for you. With 80GB $249 or 160 GB for $349 and 40 hours of battery life, the classic allows you to take your DVD and music collection everywhere you go.
iPod Shuffle- The Shuffle is your standard, good ’ol reliable mp3 player that you take to the gym or to take your dog for a walk. It holds up to 240 songs and 12 hours of battery life. This is the iPod you control with one hand. $79
Other Players: Archos 605 Wi-Fi- This portable MP3/video player has some of the features the iPod Touch has, like video playback, touch screen, Wi-Fi and more. Not only does it have more space (30GB), it also has a larger display screen (4.3”). The 605 will also allow you to record your favorite TV shows or home videos. $349.99
Oakley Split Thump- You read right, an MP3 player by sunglass gurus Oakley. With the Split Thump you get sunglasses and an MP3 player in one. Who could ask for more? It holds up to 500 songs and has up to 7 hours of playback. Gives you the convenience of an MP3 player without the pain of tangled wires. $249
RCA 512MB MP3 Player- Portable music on a budget. This MP3 player is only $20 and will hold up to 120 songs. Nothing fancy, just an MP3 player with a display screen. It also comes with a neck strap for convenient carrying.
MP3 Accessories: Sennheiser PXC 450 Noise-Canceling Headphones- If you want to escape your surroundings, whether it be a crowded bus or your annoying co-workers at the office, these noise-canceling headphones are your best bet. They effectively reduce up to 90% of surrounding noises and are extremely light and comfortable. You can purchase this leave-at-any-time vacation for $449.99.
mStation 2.1 Stereo Tower Speaker System for iPod- Tired of the same old table-top alarm clock-looking docking station for your iPod? The mStation 2.1 gives you the convenience of docking station with the sound and looks of a nice sound system. This system features dual 2” midrange drivers and a 5.25” subwoofer for some boom. It can be easily positioned in any corner of your home or office with its slick design and includes a 10-key remote control. $299
ionAudio Portable PA System with iPod Doc- This portable PA system allows you to have a traveling party. Whether you want to plug in your electric guitar and jam out with your favorite artist or you want to do some karaoke, this iPod dock is sure to get the party hopping. It also includes wheels and a retractable handle for easy carrying. $269.99
Nikon D80 10.2MP Digital SLR- The perfect camera for the average Joe that has a passion for photography. It will cost you a pretty penny or two ($1,138.99 with a lens/ $999.99 for the body only). On automatic mode the camera is a simple point and shoot but you also have the ability to switch to manual with all the features of a standard SLR, like shutter speed, white balance and more. This camera includes a retouch menu that allows you to trim images, red-eye correction, image overlay and several different filters.
Casio Exilim EX-Z1080 10.1 MP- This is a great camera for those who just want to take good pictures for fun and memories. It also takes decent video perfect for online sharing. The camera has a 3x optical zoom, face detection and 11.4 MB built-in memory. $249.99
Kodak EasyShare C613 6.2 MP- If you are looking for a good camera under $100 then this is the camera for you. This camera features a 3x optical zoom, image stabilization (which reduces blur cause by movement), video capture and more. The EasyShare is a great buy at just $93.99.
Sony Handycam HDR-SR5 Hard Disk HD Camcorder- This camcorder does not require a tape or DVD; instead it has a built-in 40GB hard drive. It records in high-definition or standard-definition, so next time it’s your child’s birthday you can capture the blowing of the candles like an action scene. Includes other features like 10x optical zoom, which give you the ability to capture 2.3 MP images right into a memory stick and incredible stability control. When you are done filming your professional HD film, you can either upload it to your PC or burn it straight to DVD using the One Touch Disc Burn button. $999.99
Panasonic Palmcorder VDR-D310 MiniDVD Camcorder- This camcorder records directly onto DVD-RAM, DVD-RW, DVD-R DL or DVD-R discs. Features included are USB 2.0 interface, which allows you to transfer videos and images directly to your pc. It also has 3CCD technology for crisp color reproduction and OIS. This feature stabilizes the image before it reaches the CCD, which allows you to zoom in/out without blur and shaking. You can also shoot still images with 3.1 MP onto an SD memory card. $699.99
Sony MiniDV Handycam Camcorder- Here we have an affordable digital camcorder with many features. It records to a MiniDV and can be played back by connecting directly into the TV or you can upload the video to your PC using a firewire cable. Some of the features include NightShot Plus Infrared, which allows you film in low light, 6 different photo effects, 20x optical/800x digital zoom and Super Steady Shot Picture Stabilization. $299.99
iPhone (Carrier: AT&T)- A 3.5” widescreen video player with 8GB memory that you can use to surf the web via Wi-Fi. It also plays music, takes pictures with its 2 MP camera and allows you to check your voice mail like checking email. Oh, and did we mention that it is also makes and receives calls? The iPhone will supply you with just about everything you need in life except for food and water, although you can always use its Google map feature to find out where the nearest restaurant or grocery store is. $399
HTC Mogul PPC-6800 (Carrier: Sprint)- This Smart Phone features Windows Mobile 6,which includes Word Mobile, Excel Mobile, PowerPoint Mobile, Windows Media Player 10 Mobile, Outlook Mobile and Internet Explorer Mobile. The phone also includes a 2 MP camera, MP3 Player, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and EV-DO support. $299.99
Motorola W385 (Carrier: Verizon)- This phone is very similar to the Razor with a few differences. For starters, the phone has superior call quality and is very user friendly. It’s a bit narrower and the keys have a bit of texture making it easy to dial and text. It also has a camera, Bluetooth support and all the basic features you would expect a camera phone to have. $184.60
Vehicle Navigation: Garmin Zumo 550- Great for motorcycles, the Zumo has Bluetooth capabilities, an MP3 player (though memory is sold separately), and a special motorcycle console that keeps track of your trip and tells you when it’s time to fuel up again. If you’re like me and want your gadgets to match your paint job, this GPS also comes with a custom cap in an assortment of colors. The rechargeable lithium-ion battery gives you up to four hours of cordless use. $999.99
TomTom ONE XL-S- Looking for a GPS unit with some personality? In addition to all the bells and whistles (4.3” touch screen, extremely accurate maps, 58 different languages to choose from, and Bluetooth capabilities), the TomTom One XL-S also gives you access to celebrity voices. Just think about it: Burt Reynolds, Gary Busey or Mr. T could give you directions to the nearest sushi restaurant. I pity the fool who doesn’t get one of these for Christmas. $399.99
Magellan RoadMate 1200- With a 3.5” anti-glare touch screen, the RoadMate 1200 is both easy to see and easy to navigate. The unit has a library of over a million points of interest and, if you’re like me and can’t spell, it will spell-check your search to find the restaurant, hotel or gas station you’re looking for. With voice guidance and pre-loaded maps, this GPS has everything you need to get you there. $229.99
Handheld: Garmin GPSMap 76CSx- Great for taking on a boat, the 76CSx is water resistant (the thing will float if dropped overboard) and includes a marine point database so you’ll never be lost at sea. The unit holds up to 100 waypoints and has a battery life of 18 hours. The 2.6” color transreflective display allows you to see even in direct sunlight. $589.27
Magellan Triton 500- With over 500 highly detailed topographic maps, the Triton 500 shows a lot more than the average handheld GPS. The 2.2” color screen is easy to see and the simple menus make the unit very user-friendly. This rugged, waterproof GPS also has an electric barometer, an electronic compass and the SiRFstarIII chip, a highly sensitive antenna that gets a reliable signal in the deepest of woods. $249.99
Garmin eTrex Venture CX- This fairly basic handheld GPS is perfect for camping, hiking and boating. Pre-loaded with maps of the Americas, Europe, Asia, Australia and Oceania and a marine point database, you can go just about anywhere with the Venture and know where you are. $199.99
SkyCaddie SG5 Golfer’s GPS- This little gadget will help you improve your golf game without having to pay a professional instructor. The SG5 tells you the distance to your target and how far you hit each shot. It has a full-color display screen and comes with a USB cable for downloading course data files. It is powered by a built-in lithium-ion battery which last up to 14 hours. Calculates your distance to as many as 40 objects on any hole and measures exactly how far you hit on each shot to guide your club selection. $429.95
Shaper Image Private Video Viewer- Remember when our parents used to tell us not to sit so close to the TV? Well Mom, you’re really going to hate this little gadget. It’s a pair of glasses that you can plug into any laptop, DVD player, TV, gaming console or music player, allowing you to have a virtual 48” LCD screen attached to your head. It also includes a built-in lithium battery which allows you 3 hours of cordless viewing. $399.95
Home Theater Watch TA457- I remember watching an episode of The Jetsons where Elroy is in school and starts watching TV on his watch. Ever since then, I always dreamed of being able to do that. Apparently, the future is now. Not only does this watch tell time, it also allows you to play music, view picture slideshows and watch videos. It has an easy-to-navigate menu and looks like a normal watch with a durable rubber watch band. $117.26
by kevin dusinberre
So, you want to by some gadgets for Christmas this year but have no clue what to buy or how to go about buying it, right? No problem. Chances are you are not alone. Many people just like you don’t know where to start and are a bit intimidated by all the acronyms flying around these days, like MPBS, RAM, and CMOS. Don’t worry, with a little help, you won’t have to pretend any longer.
The first problem you might discover is deciding where to go for all those new-fangled gizmos. Which is better, Circuit City or Best Buy? Well, you have to ask yourself two very important questions, “Which one is closer?” and “Do I prefer shopping in red décor or blue décor?” Other than that, both stores are pretty much the same. Products, selection, prices, sales staff- they are all virtually identical.
“So, how do I educate myself, should I just saunter into a store and find a sales rep?” Well, yes, but there are a few things you’ll need to know first to get the most out of it. First of all, sales people do not work on a commission basis. They earn an hourly rate, and unless they’re participating in some type of employee contest, they get nothing more than a pat on the back for their efforts, even if they sell you $5000 worth of stuff. Second, because it’s now the holiday season, you will encounter a greater number of seasonal employees who have only worked there for a few weeks. Try to find an associate who has worked there for a few years, as they are most likely very knowledgeable. Find them and pick their brain. They actually like it, and they get little satisfaction out of any other part of their job.
“Well, how do I know what to ask?” My suggestion is that you start from the top and work your way down. Just because you aren’t interested in buying a $3000 television doesn’t mean you can’t take a moment to learn why one costs $3000 while another costs $1000. Another helpful hint: When looking at the price tags, you will notice a list of complicated specs on each model. Ask the associate what they mean, because they may help you later if you choose to research further. Odds are, they’ll have an answer waiting, and it opens up the conversation to more questions and understanding of your needs. For instance, learning about contrast ratio on a television might remind you that you have a window across from your entertainment center, and a feature such as that might improve your viewing. Or, learning about the image stabilization feature on a video camera might clue you into the fact that most of your pictures will be taken indoors, and having that feature would be useful. Without asking, you wouldn’t know how certain features you’ve never even imagined might greatly benefit you.
“Now, what about warrantees and all the extra stuff they’ll try to sell me?” Remember, these folks don’t make commission, but they are required to do a few things to keep their job, like offer warranties, installation services and accessories. My first suggestion is to politely listen. It only takes a moment of your time, and the associates appreciate it. They feel satisfied about fulfilling their obligation to the store, and your patience makes the day go smoother for everyone.
“Should I buy the warranty?” Maybe. It depends on if you like the security of warranties and what you’re buying it for. Both Circuit City and Best Buy have accidental coverage warranties on most items that are pretty good. If you think you would have a heart attack or kill someone if you dropped whatever you bought, then there’s your answer.
“Installation services?” Again, maybe. If you’re totally inept at computers or you want something cool like your LCD mounted and done right, then go for it. Find out your best options though, as they will most likely try to sell you a package of things. Packages can save you money, but make sure that you need everything in it. There is usually a more discretely advertised lesser package that might suit you better.
“Accessories?” Yes. I typically recommend that you buy the necessary accessories at the time of purchase. Most electronic items don’t come with the required accessories, and the reason is simple math. They keep everything they can out of the box to keep its price down and make you more likely to buy it. You have to keep these accessories in mind when you’re budgeting, because some items, like computers, require accessories that can add up to as much as 30% of your total cost. But like before, let the sales rep show you what you need. Chances are, you really do. It will more than likely save you time and money in the long run.
You might ask, “Is it true that this same accessory costs less at Wal-Mart or Costco?” Sometimes, however the items you find there are cheaper for a reason, and keep in mind you have to go to Wal-Mart to get it. For me, it’s not worth the six bucks. And believe it or not, some items at Circuit City and Best Buy are actually cheaper than Wal-Mart. Here are a few final tips:
If you find something you like, buy it early. Most electronics come from Asia, and when they are gone, they are gone.
Both CC and BB have price matching guarantees, and it’s a great benefit for the informed consumer. If another store is selling a product for less, they will give you back the difference in price within 14 or 30 days of your purchase, depending on the item and the store.
“What if I need to return my item?” Both Circuit City and Best Buy extend their return policies beyond Christmas in the case of gifts. Most policies require that you produce a gift receipt to make a return (which they might not tell you). Ask what their policy is and make sure that they print one out for you.
Don’t get pissed off. When it’s Christmas Eve and you are looking for an iPod Touch and they don’t have one, calm down. After all, you waited until the last minute to make a pretty significant purchase. In general, associates and managers will be more receptive to finding you a solution to any problem, including product availability, if you are respectful and nice. There is usually a solution to your problem, so ask what else they can do. If you throw a fit and threaten to take names and call corporate, you’ll only kill their willingness to help. Plus, they won’t care about your threats, as any complaints taken from mid-November to mid-January are taken about as seriously as a peacenik in the White House.
Finally, electronics are cool and exciting to both give and receive, and shopping for them should be, too.
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