Product Reviews | ariane c design

Product Reviews

Mar6

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ZAGG Sparq6000 Dual USB Charger

Posted in: Electronic Accessories, Gadgets, Product Reviews, Technology, Vancouver

I was on the hunt for a universal USB charger that would work with all my devices, to charge on the go as well as having an extra charge supply on hand. The ZAGG Sparq6000 will hold four charges when its battery is at 100%.

The ZAGG Sparq6000 is part of a series of three USB chargers that differ in size, amount of charges they’ll hold, and price. The 1220 holds one charge, the 3100, two charges, and the 6000 can keep four charges on its two-USB port device.

All three Sparqs: 1220, 3100, and 6000 are named for their capacity. The 6000 ($99.99) has 6000 mAh and up to 2.1A at 5 volts. The other two, while smaller and with one USB port, each carry less charges, but are slightly smaller and are priced at $39.99 and $69.99 respectively.

The Sparq charges smartphones and tablets four times faster than a standard USB charger, and in the case of the 6000, can charge more than one USB device at a time.
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Jan9

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JOBY’s UltraFit Sling Strap

Posted in: Photography, Product Reviews

San Francisco-based JOBY, makers of the popular Gorilla Pod, designed a series of sling straps last fall. JOBY’s design team researched their sling’s design with the help of over 500 male and female photographers to help determine a camera strap’s ideal position and movement about the body.

It would be hard to write this review without drawing comparisons to Black Rapid’s RS-W1, a ladies’ DSLR strap that I reviewed last year. After all, the two straps are similar in features and size.

[L-R in both photos: Black Rapid RS-W1; Joby UltraFit Sling Strap]

Like Black Rapid, JOBY designed a separate strap for men and women, with ergonomic design features individually worked into each. Most importantly, both models are designed to evenly distribute the camera’s weight to prevent strain.
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Dec11

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Logitech’s Ultrathin Keyboard Cover

Posted in: Gadgets, Product Reviews, Technology

Perhaps you’ve got an iPad on your holiday wish list. Maybe like me, you’ve owned one for awhile and have a need for typing on the road (without the virtual keyboard). Either way, I decided it was time to check out an integrated keyboard cover and case.

Through research (and looking for the nicely-designed ones), I came across Logitech’s Ultrathin Keyboard Cover in white. And while this product’s been on the market for awhile now, it’s been recently launched in white – and even more recently, in red. As well, I wanted to wait for the latest unveiling in the iPad series to make sure that any case I’d be reviewing would fit the most current iPad on the market.
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Nov20

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Lowepro’s Adventura Camera Bags

Posted in: Bags, Electronic Accessories, Photography, Product Reviews

Lowepro has a pretty large range of camera bags on the market (I’m a particular fan of the Passport Sling, one of the bags I reviewed earlier this year). I wanted to try out a couple of models ahead of the holiday shopping season, so I chose both the Adventura 140 and 160, similar models, in two different sizes. They’re part of a series that includes the 120, 140, 160, and 170.

Both models are constructed of the same materials (featuring water-resistant outer fabric) and have a rain flap lid covering a zippered area, to protect the camera and accessories. The standard clip keeps the bag shut in front.

The easily removable/adjustable shoulder strap has a non-slip patch on the inside, and both bags have the zippered front pocket for storing memory cards, smart phones, or small cables.

I like that the shoulder strap is long enough to be worn cross body as well as on the shoulder. The grip handle at the top of the bag is a very welcome feature.

The larger 160 has built-in belt loops while the smaller 140 has a back pocket for a notepad. Both bags have side pockets that will fit keys or a USB stick, and can also accommodate a small water bottle.

The two bags I tested also differ in the interior liners. The 160′s is more padded than its smaller brother.

[L-R: Adventura 140, Adventura 160 padded liners]

Both are easily removable and customizable for your camera and its gear. The bag looks and feels sturdy and is lightweight.

I basically wanted to compare the models to see what gear combinations would fit into each.

The Adventura 140 is meant to fit a DSLR with attached standard lens, plus one additional lens or flash, or camcorder plus accessories; The Adventura 160 can add an additional lens or flash.

I tested both bags with the following gear: Nikon D90 DSLR, 35mm f/1.8 G prime lens, 60mm AF-S Micro f/2.8 G (macro) lens, 18-200 f/3.5-5.6 G zoom lens, Joby GorillaPod, Canon compact point and shoot, and a Nikon SB-700 speedlight flash.

Here’s the 160 with my D90, 35mm prime lens attached, plus the 18-200mm zoom lens on the side.

The 160 with the D90, 35mm prime lens attached, and an SB-700 Speedlight

The 160 with the D90, 35mm prime lens, Joby GorillaPod, and SB-700 Speedlight

I also fit the D90 with 35mm prime, the SB-700 Speedlight in one compartment and my Canon point and shoot in another.

In the Adventura 140, I fit just the D90 with a 60mm f/2.8 lens attached,

and the D90 with the 35mm prime lens attached plus the SB-700 Speedlight.

All in all, I think that the 140 would be perfect for a micro four-thirds or mirrorless sensor camera and lens such as the Nikon J1. I like to travel as lightly as possible, and these bags are flexible to fit a variety of gear configurations.

The Adventura 160′s inner dimensions: 8.5″ wide, 5.1″ deep, 6.9″ high
The Adventura 140′s inner dimensions: 6.7″ wide, 3.7″ deep, 6.9″ high

The 140 retails for $36 while the 160 costs $44 (listed here in Canadian dollars). The Lowepro Adventura bags are available at Beau Photo in Vancouver and Lens and Shutter shops throughout British Columbia.

Lowepro sent me both bags for the purposes of testing out and writing this review.
Jun20

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SwitchEasy’s 3D Avant-Garde Case

Posted in: Product Reviews, Technology

After seeing SwitchEasy’s Avant-Garde 3D iPhone4/4S cases, I just had to have the Chateau case for review in time for summer. Before I proceed, I’d like to let my readers know that I tried taking product shots with three different cameras. Not one shot came even close to this case’s actual greenish-turquoise colour.

The above photo shows the three colour choices more accurately: White, Turquoise, and Mican (a nice deep yellow colour).

The Chateau case forms part of a series of four different styles that also include Blossom™ (Black, White, and Pink), Clockwork™ (Black, Bronze, and Silver), and PLANK™ (Blue, Brown, and White).

I wanted to review this case for two reasons: its slider design and the whimsical 3D decorative back.

The case comes with a full protective kit:
- Two sets of colour-matched covers for both headphone jack and 30-pin dock connector
- Two anti-static screen covers
- Squeegee and microfiber cloth for application

The plastic frame is made from durable polycarbonate, meant to protect all of the iPhone’s impact points. The 3D rear design helps to grip the phone. In the hand, the sides feel a little rough, also helping with grip.

I also like the front beveled bumper edge made to protect the front screen.

The slider is easy to clip onto the back once the phone is clicked into the main part of the case assembly. The slider clicks firmly.

I tried putting on and removing the headphone jack and 30-pin dock connector protectors. Both were easy and felt solid once in place.

For added dimension and whimsy, little sections of the iPhone’s rear also show through the design. The case works just fine with the camera. I noticed no shadows on photos taken with the case on.

This is a fun case and a great summer accessory for your iPhone 4 or 4S. Kids’ll love it too. And if castles aren’t your thing, check out the three other unique designs in the collection. The Plank consists of five broken planks, Blossom is a field of roses with an extra large rose located towards the bottom, and Clockwork is a pretty cool series of cogs and pistons.

I couldn’t find any real negative aspects of this case, but bear in mind that while it won’t wobble on a flat surface, some users might not like a phone case to have an uneven back.

The SwitchEasy Avant-Garde case retails for US $34.99 and comes with a two year warranty. It’s available around the US (shops and online), and in Vancouver at Kube Computers, and via Memory Lane Computers, Blue Wave Digital, and Jump+ elsewhere in Canada.

Disclosure note: I was sent the SwitchEasy Avant-Garde Chateau case for the purpose of writing this review: cmply.2

May8

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Wacom’s Bamboo Stylus Duo for iPad

Posted in: Gadgets, Product Reviews, Technology

Wacom, pioneers in the digital tablet market (and recent interactive displays) for creatives, also carries a range of Bamboo tablets and stylus pens for the iPad. There’s two stylus versions available: the Solo and the Duo. The $10 price difference between the two includes the Duo’s additional built-in ink tip on the opposite end of the stylus. I was sent the Stylus Duo for review (currently only available in black).

As a comparison point, the Solo is only slightly longer at 120 mm than Griffin’s stylus at 110 mm. The Duo is 131 mm (I chose not to include a photo with the Griffin, as I’m only comparing the Solo’s length with their model).

From a design perspective, the Bamboo is both sleek and modern, with a minimalistic thin Bamboo logo emblazoned on the pen cap. The tip is more pointed than others I’ve seen, and on the iPad, very responsive to movement. The cap can be placed on either end depending on your needs. The ink is black (my personal preference over blue), with a fine point.

It would be great to see the Duo offered in a few colours, perhaps in a more refined colour palette than the Solo’s current range.

Overall, I preferred this slightly longer stylus for added control when using the iPad. The stylus also responds well to pressure, perfect for drawing and adding textured lines to your work. It’s also easy to jot down notes using SketchPad Pro HD.

Speaking of sketch apps, I’ve also been playing with the Bamboo Paper iPad app (free limited version; $1.99 full version includes 20 notebooks as well as cloud archiving and notebook sharing). The app’s a fun way to create journals with doodles, photos (from your iPad’s camera rolls), and text.

I’m not sure what the full version offers in the way of colour choices, however the free app has a limited range of brush and pen colours to choose from. Wacom is also working on a future version of the app for Android devices.

The Stylus Duo weighs 20 grams and its nibs are both replaceable and compatible with the Bamboo Stylus solo (the version without a built-in pen).

The Bamboo Stylus Duo retails for US $39.95. London Drugs sells the Solo for $29.99, as does Staples. In Canada, the Stylus Duo is available online; local retailers will be added in the near future.

Disclosure note: I was sent the Bamboo Stylus Duo for the purpose of writing this review: cmply.2

May1

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PixelSkin HD Wrap for iPad3

Posted in: Product Reviews, Technology

Speck has recently launched their PixelSkin HD Wrap for the 3rd generation iPad. This case follows the same design as the rest of the PixelSkin series. Speck offers two PixelSkin patterns: the HD pattern as well as the iPhone4/4S and iPod Touch “low res” version, incorporating a larger pixel pattern.

The PixelSkin HD Wrap has a semi-flexible shell with four sturdy panels that bend both ways.

The headphone, rear camera, side switch, speaker, and dock connector are all precisely cut and are well protected by the beveled edges. However, the sleep/wake button and volume buttons are fully covered. I tested both sets of buttons and discovered no decrease in their functionality by their being covered.

The back of the PixelSkin HD Wrap is soft and pliable with a glossy finish, coupled with a matte grid pattern for both style and feel.

The raised Speck logo is centered vertically along the middle. The photo below depicts the Peacock Blue colour most accurately.

The front of the case matches the back, with a hard plastic clip to both secure and put the iPad to sleep.

I’d read several online reviews mentioning occasional failure for the iPad to wake up (or go to sleep) with this case, but I’ve been testing this all afternoon and so far, it does what it’s cut out to do. As long as the clasp is clicked into place, the iPad3 will sleep; when unclasped, it awakens.

This feature can definitely make or break a case, as the last thing an iPad owner would want is the battery to be drained by a malfunctioning case.

The next important PixelSkin HD Wrap feature is the viewing and typing angles offered. I tried my iPad with both, on a solid surface.

Both work fine, but once off a tabletop or other sturdy surface, the panels have a tendency to unravel.

Pros
Magnetic sleep/awake feature
Protective case with beveled edges and well-designed iPad port cut-outs
Available in pretty colours as well as in black
Beautiful design carried across several Speck electronic accessory case lines

Cons
Viewing stand (high position) tugs on case if not properly fitted and falls off if moved too much
Both viewing and typing angles work better on a stable surface
Would be more convenient if both viewing angles could be used without unfolding panels first (e.g. Apple’s Smart Cover)

The PixelSkin HD Wrap retails for US $49.95 and is available in Cobalt, Pomodoro, Peacock, Bubblegum, Grape, and Black. I also found the case at Amazon Canada that includes the free Super Saver shipping option.

Disclosure note: I was sent the PixelSkin HD Wrap for the purpose of writing this review: cmply.2

Apr27

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Lowepro’s Urban Photo Sling

Posted in: Bags, Electronic Accessories, Photography, Product Reviews

Lowepro’s latest camera bags in their ‘sling’ lineup is the Urban Photo Sling. This just-released product comes in two sizes and is completely customizable.

I was sent the larger 250 model that can accommodate a pro DSLR (without grip) with an attached 70-200mm lens, two extra lenses or flash units, or a flash and one lens, a digital tablet, and a small tripod or water bottle in its side pocket. There’s also room for accessories and personal items, as well as a velcro-enclosed pocket for an SD card.

The Urban Photo Sling’s little brother (150) fits either a DSLR with attached 55-200mm lens plus either two extra lenses OR a flash and one lens plus a tablet, accessories and personal items. Another possible configuration is a CSC with attached kit lens, three extra lenses or a flash plus two lenses and tablet.

The Urban Photo Sling offers a modern, comfortable, and versatile way to carry and access both camera gear and digital tablet. You can wear it three ways: front, back, or side. It can be loaded two ways: either from the top or with the front panel fully opened.

A dedicated tablet compartment with protective padding is located inside the bag at the rear. I loaded the bag and tried various configurations with the camera body, lens, and flash unit.

As with many camera bags on the market, you can resize the interior sections via repositioning them on the velcro walls on either side. On the bottom, there’s two black panels that velcro together that will secure any smaller lenses that you pack down there.

I like the idea of carrying all my gear in a sling fashion, as the gear’s more readily available than most backpack models I’ve seen. The padded, adjustable shoulder strap includes a band to catch the excess strap length.

The Urban Photo Sling’s top flap contains a small, non-obtrusive honeycomb pattern design. That same flap is secured via two side clips as well as velcro in front. Once lifted, a small zippered section can store a couple of smart phones, notepads, pens and a set of keys (using attached key clip). I like the simplicity and practicality of this bag.

Additional storage on one side will fit a small water bottle or tripod, while on the other, a slim, velcro-enclosed pouch will be great for loose change, a bus pass, or pocket map.

As well, a tiny interior velcro pocket can stow an SD card.

Both models include a waist belt that tucks away when not needed and a carry handle on top.

The 250′s dimensions:
Exterior: 10.8″ (27.5 cm) wide, 8.1″ (20.5 cm) deep, 13.6″ (34.5 cm) high
Interior: 8.3″ (21 cm) wide, 4.7″ (12 cm) deep, 11.8″ (30 cm) high

For comparison, the smaller 150′s dimensions:
Exterior: 10.6″ (27 cm) wide, 7.2″ (18.3 cm) deep, 11.6″ (29.5 cm) high
Interior: 7.7″ (19.5 cm) wide, 4.5″ (11.5 cm) deep, 9.8″ (25 cm) high

Pros
Doesn’t look like a camera bag
Back of bag and strap both padded
Configurable interior that works with a variety of camera bodies and accessories

Cons
The weight of the sling (when loaded) takes a little getting used to, depending on both your body frame and how you’ll ultimately wear it

The Urban Photo Sling 150 retails for CAD $89.00; the 250 for CAD $109.00 and is available in black for now, however the line may expand to offer other colours in the near future.

Disclosure note: I was sent the Urban Photo Sling 250 for the purpose of writing this review: cmply.2

Apr24

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Cygnett’s Scarygirl iPhone4/4S Cases

Posted in: Illustration, Product Reviews, Technology

[Underwater House, Hootsville, and Tea Party ICON cases designed by artist Nathan Jurevicius]

The ICON series is a trio of tastefully illustrated iPhone4/4S cases currently available from Cygnett. I was recently introduced to Cygnett through a PR contact in the States and sent the Hootsville model for review. One look at this case and I’m certain that my friends at Hootsuite will all want one.

The ICON series was designed by Australian born illustrator and artist Nathan Jurevicius, who now calls Toronto home.

It’s a beautiful little case with a low profile that’s easy to both put on and take off.

In addition to art galleries, Nathan Jurevicius works with several international companies including MTV, Warner Bros., Comedy Central US, StrangeCo and ABC TV.

I like the soft matte finish, with a rubberized coated texture and slim fit over the phone. This limited edition case is perfect for brightening up your phone with groovy art from Nathan’s fantasy world of Scarygirl, winner of both 2010 a FITC Award (game category) and in 2009 an Aurealis Award for Best Illustrated Book/Graphic Novel.

Scarygirl is one of the artist’s most notable projects. The book is described as a “psychedelic, dream-like composition of heartfelt stories and reinterpreted folklore based around a cute but slightly odd little girl and her giant octopus companion.”

In association with Passion Pictures Australia, Scarygirl was released as online game and produced for both XBox Live Arcade and PlayStation Network, surpassing one million players.

An animated Scarygirl feature film is in development by Oscar-winning producer Sophie Byrne.

A few weeks ago, TechCrunch’s Jordan Crook called it the perfect iPhone case. It’s truly a beautiful piece of artwork that both graces and protects your phone.

The case comes with a small cleaning cloth and screen protector, and retails for US $39.99. All Cygnett products are covered under a two year warranty.

All three ICON series cases can be purchased on Cygnett’s site with free shipping. North American shipping takes about 7 to 10 days. The cases are also available via Amazon.com.

Disclosure note: I was sent the ICON Hootsville case for the purpose of writing this review: cmply.2

Apr19

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Okanagan Crush Pad: Haywire Wines

Posted in: Okanagan Valley, Packaging Design, Product Reviews, Wine

I’m no stranger to Okanagan Crush Pad’s wines. I’ve had the chance to sample them with an assortment of delightful bites at two Vancouver events: Urban Winery’s Crush Pad event and the initial launch at Boneta’s (somewhat) new Gastown space.

Launched in September of last year, Summerland, BC’s Okanagan Crush Pad’s wine collection includes Bartier-Scholefield, Bartier Bros., and Haywire.

2010′s Sommelier of the Year Kurtis Kolt has also crushed grapes there and the Crush Pad is aiming for a June small batch release. The Crush Pad is described as a “one-stop shop” for BC’s wine industry, offering everything from crushing the grapes to marketing and sales strategy for wineries.

I was sent a delivery of three Haywire wine boxes (partially filled for sampling, not the entire 3 litres!). I still remember the beautiful finish of the red at the Urban Winery tasting, and this time around was no exception. Once the Crush Pad red is poured and allowed to air, it’s a wonderful blend of fruity scents on the nose, with a deep, bountiful finish on the palate. It’s light and not too complex, yet offers a flavourful experience that I’d easily combine anything from roast chicken with herbed potatoes to a meaty pizza.

The rose is a harder nut to crack for me. I like its fruity nose and elegant, pungent lychee/berry sips, but I haven’t grown to love rose, so perhaps this one needs to work its charm on me (luckily I have another “glass” in the box for a second tasting). It has a beautiful unique colour reminiscent of sherry, and is crisp with good acidity.

The white has a stronger, sweeter nose than I remembered, but that’s probably due to the fact that it wasn’t nearly as chilled as at the Urban Winery afternoon event. This is a wonderfully spirited crisp wine with a great combination of lighter fruit tastes. I’m thinking cheddar cheese, or a fondue with this one, as it’s mellow on the palate. Haywire White also makes for a good summer patio BBQ sipper.

Haywire Crush Pad boxed wines are also consumer-friendly. They’re easy to open and use, recycle, and are more economic than most comparable BC wines, at less than $14/per bottle.

The three-litre-sized boxes can last up to six weeks after opening, thus making it a perfect camping and summer fun wine on the go. The Crush Pad White and Rosé retail for $54.00 each, while the Red is $52.00. All three are VQA quality and are available at private wine stores throughout the Lower Mainland. Check with your local wine retailer before you head out; these are going to be popular with the summer crowd (though I envision a full box of red at home for the winter months).