andPOP » Hardware Reviews

BodyGuardz Protect Your Gadgets

Rick Levine — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 02:27:59 +0000

After buying a new digital gadget, a protective case is the next sensible item most people purchase. Bodyguardz offers a product to protect your iPhone, iPod and Laptops in the form of a clear colourless protective film that covers the entire body of the device to protect from scratches and the outside elements. Therefore BodyGuardz will protect your device against scratches without changing the look of your device.

Putting the custom cut film on your gadget involves the use of a spray solution followed by careful application of the clear film, which is custom cut to cover every surface of the particular device. The new ‘skin’ will need to set for 24 hours.

BodyGuardz includes two complete sets of ‘body protectors’ and offer lifetime replacements if needed. One of the cool things about Bodyguardz protectors is how the product is custom fits on the device, allowing the beauty of the actual product to be appreciated. A conventional leather/silcone would naturally ad bulk to your portable device but the BodyGuardz protects the screen and other delicate parts without adding bulk. No additional bulk is one great BodyGuardz benefit, if you want to slip the device into your pocket or hand bag easily. However, if you ever accidently drop the gadget, a bulkier leather case might offer a little more protection to the delicate inside parts upon hitting a concrete floor for example.
The trade off between convenience and protection is an individual decision – the risk of dropping, as opposed to the convenience factor. It is likely that once you try the BodyGuardz on your gadget you will really appreciate the convenience and beauty of the product and get a BodyGuardz for all of your portable devices – With the BodyGuardz it is possible to have the best of both worlds – the BodyGuardz custom fitting will accommodate the good old leather case if you really want the double protection.

Prices for BodyGuardz will vary depending on the particular device but they are relatively cost effective for the protection provided. Fro example, BodyGuardz for the iPhone of Blackberry Tour 9630 phone is $24.95 USD. BodyGuardz for an Apple Mac Book air is $49.00
Visit www.bodyguardz.com for complete pricing and to view a video demonstration of BodyGuardz durability: http://www.bodyguardz.com/

Ultimate Ears ‘Triple Fi 10vi’ Ear Buds for iPhone

Rick Levine — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 22:32:54 +0000

Noise Isolating Earphone Monitors - ‘Don’t leave home without ‘em’

The Triple Fi 10vi noise isolating earphone monitors, with voice capability, from Ultimate Ears (UE) are no ordinary pair of earbuds. These are marvelous headphones that provide a totally satisfying listening experience, without the gimmicks and colored sound. The audio experience from the Triple Fi 10vi is a smooth all around sound, absent of harsh overtones devoid of mushy bass. The Triple Fi 10vi, penetrating well into the ear canal, actually feel good and are comfortable to wear. The silicone material used for the fittings allows these headphones to feel as close to a ‘custom fit’ as possible, contributing greatly to what I discovered to be a quite satisfying listening experience. The fine sound quality, beyond initial expectations, was no doubt, due in part to having been accustomed to listening to music with the standard iPod earbuds. Be that as it may, this fact cannot steal the thunder from the UE Triple Fi 10vi’s excellence, as I immediately appreciated the rich audio quality as well as the custom fit of these pro level, isolating earphone monitors.

Professional musicians will be most likely be familiar with the Ultimate Ears Brand, as this is THE Ultimate Ears company who provides the ‘custom fitted’ monitor ear buds used worldwide by pro recording artists as well as live concert musicians. Next time you are at a live musical concert or watching your favorite live music concert on DVD, notice the tiny earphones each performer, musician is wearing. These ‘tiny hearing aids’ are probably UE Custom Series monitor headsets designed for touring musicians and serious audiophiles. I have seen James Taylor use them, Gwen Stephanie and many more. The UE product line is divided into four series, ‘Metro’,‘Super’, ‘Triple’ and ‘Custom’ providing a headset solution to suit every budget – fortunately there is in fact, a pair of UE’s available ‘for the rest of us’.

The Triple Fi 10vi is in the upper-mid to semi pro range, a worthy member of the UE family that ships with more accessories that one can initially identify. To obtain the most out of the Triple Fi 10vi experience, the first thing to do after unpacking and taking a close look at the headphones is to inspect all the accompanying contents. I highly recommend, even before ever wearing the new buds for the first time, pay a visit the UE website and view the brief online demonstration video which will explain all one needs to know about the product, from how they should be worn, the memory wire, to what all this stuff is that you will find in the box.

Here is a ‘heads up’ as to what you will find in the box:

A pocket sized 3 inch by 2 inch hard shell metal case to store the numerous accessories: silicone and foam ear cushions for the “magic seal” effect, an extender cable, a sound level attenuator, a cleaning tool and last but not least, a 1/4 inch adapter, to connect the Triple Fi 10vi’s 3.5 mm to equipment where necessary.

Here are a few things to consider:

1. The sound quality of the Triple Fi 10vi is strongly related to the fit. If the earphones are properly set into the ears the sound will be rich and full. The earbud cables have what is called ‘memory’ wire, knowledge of which is integral to creating a proper fit.

2. The Triple Fi 10vi with voice capability has built in microphone for use as a headset with the iPhone and as a recording mic on the iPod Touch 2G. Used with an iPhone the audio transmission was clearer than than ever for the usual telephone conversation.

3. The Multifunction button answers a call on the iPhone or pauses/resumes music and video play and works with the entire current iPod family of products.

4. The sound attenuator converter will adapt the FOUR section 3mm end that you would see on earbud/mic headsets that are usually used with the iPhone, to the THREE section end that you would see on the standard stereo iPod headphone jack. Use of the enclosed sound level attenuator converter, might be useful in re-solving unusual mechanical issues in some cases.

Technically, the clear sonic quality of the UE Triple Fi 10vi is primarily facilitated through state of the art audio design. Three drivers, directed to their designated speaker combined with an audio filtration system, shapes the sound of the Triple Fi 10vi. The goal is to provide the listener with an experience that is as close as possible to that of custom personal monitors.

The look and feel of the Triple Fi 10vi with voice capability can confidently be described as solid, and the sound quality is rich an creamy. The biggest dilemma which will arise, is that after using the Triple Fi 10vi, the ‘pleasure’ of listening to an iPod with the ‘standard buds’ will pretty much be lost forever. As one might say, “Once you go blue you can’t go back”, or something like that.

With the ‘Triple Fi 10vi with voice capability’ offering a whole new listening standard, the next time you take your iPod out for a walk, you’ll will likely be finding yourself sharing my headspace, thinking the very same thing: ‘don’t leave home without ‘em’. Visit the Utimate Ears website to experience the complete line up of headphone monitors available for every budget.

MSRP $419.00 USD

For more information visit http://www.ultimateears.com/

Review: Focal XS Computer Speakers

Max Whiteside — Fri, 01 May 2009 03:40:33 +0000

For as long as I can remember, any new computer I bought, I stuck with the built-in speaker system. Last month I had a chance to try Focal’s new consumer 2.1 speaker system and boy was I impressed – and not just by the sound quality.

The speakers are beautifully designed. The weighted base and angled brushed metal stand that hold up the black, glossy speaker, easily compliment any one of Apple’s computers or monitors. Very few speaker systems will look as if Apple developed them, but this is one of them. FOCAL’s attention to design has already caught the attention of Apple as these speakers are routinely setup in Apple stores with their computer display models.

The Focal XS speakers will even help you reduce desk clutter with the built in iPod/iPhone dock and remote on the right speaker. The universal dock connector includes eight adapters so you can attach just about any iPod or iPhone. We tested the dock with the 3G iPhone and did not experience any type of audio interference.

Setup of the Focal XS speaker system takes about 5 minutes. After connecting a few wires and finally plugging the USB connection into the back of your computer, just open the sound control panel and choose the FOCAL XS option. By using a USB connection, the speakers also serve as a charger and data sync connector for your iPod. A button on the back of the right speaker allows you to switch between synchronization and the audio source. While the button would serve its purpose better on the front of the speaker base, it’s a handy feature to have.

In addition, the speaker includes a power button, volume buttons, a stereo mini jack and a remote control that sticks to the neck of the speaker with a built in magnet. There is also no switch or button needed to change between the three possible audio sources, allowing them to play simultaneously.

The included remote control is extremely handy to have. However, we found the infrared signal to be weak at best and require a direct line of site to the base. Furthermore, there is no volume meter display, so you’ll need to adjust the sound by ear.

When you finally hit the play button in iTunes, you’ll be mesmerized by the clear and crisp sound. Each speaker includes a 3/4” tweeter and 3” paper cone, while the subwoofer boasts a 6 1/2” paper cone and a single knob at the back to adjust the bass setting.

With a listing price of US$599, it may be difficult to justify spending that kind of money on a computer speaker system, but with it’s complimentary design and built-in iPod/iPhone dock, we think it’s worth every penny.

For more information visit the official Focal XS web site.

An Extra 18 Hours For Mac

Carys Mills — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 14:05:57 +0000

QuickerTek has announced an external battery/charger that will give MacBook Pros an additional 18 hours of battery life.

The product expands the included battery’s capacity for 11.5 to 18 hours. While in use it also charges the internal battery. Users can benefit from the extended battery life during airline flights.

“This new battery and charger not only gives you all-day performance, but it also enables a longer wireless experience, by providing all the extended power needed when mobile. It looks good and it’s easy to carry with you when you travel,” said Rick Estes, QuickerTek president.

“This battery technology is now 25% more dense – so we can pack more into a smaller size.”

The product is three pounds and is available for $499.95 USD.

Review: Chargepod Cuts Down On Chargers

Jeff Justiz — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 04:36:37 +0000

Anytime a person like me packs for a trip, you need to pack all your gadgets. And with your gadgets, comes all the individual chargers to keep it running. Anytime I have brought my cell phone, iPod, PDA, satellite radio, digital camera, and PSP anywhere, I’ve had to stuff my bag with tonnes of cords. Companies are now starting to work on solutions to cut down the number of chargers you need, preferably to 1.

One such company is Callpod, with their Chargepod. The Chargepod is a cool device that lets you plug in up to 6 mobile devices at once. Looking at their website, they have tips for just about every portable device I own, except the digital camera which no one seems to have anyway.

One knock is that it doesn’t include any tips for any devices. They offer a bundle for $40 more that includes a car adapter, and six tips. The device itself, with 6 items in it, can be a little flimsy, if you need to move it around. The tips seem to be longer than necessary adding to this.

Many of my comparisons using it are to the iGo system I’ve used for a few years now. Chargepod doesn’t include laptop charging, though a newer model does. Where Chargepod beats iGo is that iGo only lets you charge 2 portable devices at once, to Chargepod’s 6. iGo’s system is also very difficult about charging iPods with another item. Chargepod passes this test with flying colours, when it charged my iPhone and my iPod Nano at the same time… and a Blackberry.

The Chargepod comes with a convenient travel case. And the car adapter is available separately. Great for those times you find yourself in the middle of nowhere on a family car ride, and everyone’s cell phone is dead. You can choose one phone to charge, or 6.

Despite the clunkiness of the design, it gets the job done effectively. You don’t need to throw a bunch of chargers with their messy cords into your suitcase or carry-on anymore. This one device is enough, which bodes well for any nervous airport baggage screeners… and in turn, you.

Price: $39.95 USD
http://www.callpod.com

Microsoft’s Wireless Explorer Mini Mouse – Mac

Rick Levine — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 04:50:20 +0000

Mouse technology is an ongoing game of leap frog. Every so often a new mouse product arrives which introduces some kind of new technology – how much better can the ‘mouse’ be improved? Apple’s ‘Mighty Mouse‘ for the Macintosh, was oddly innovative by re-positioning the old ‘mouse ball’ on the TOP of the mouse to allow for additional navigation options. However, after a couple of months of use, the good old little mouse ball on the TOP will stop functioning in the UPward direction and it is next to impossible to clean it to get it working properly again. Until Apple figures out a way to resolve this sticky ball problem with the Mighty Mouse, I am trapped into hunting for a better mouse.

Microsoft markets no less than 30 mouse products (meese? mices?), only several of which are labeled as compatible with Macintosh. The new Microsoft Wireless Explorer Mouse with BlueTrack Technology* is available in two sizes – a big one just called the Microsoft Wireless Explorer Mouse (to which I may refer to in this review as the ‘desktop’ model) and a smaller lighter ‘cousin’ for traveling laptop users labelled as the Microsoft Wireless Explorer MINI Mouse. With its virtual tours, photos and specs, the Microsoft Mouse webpage provides a thorough description of all products, but nothing replaces a ‘hands on’test drive.

After taking the Microsoft Wireless Explorer Mouse out of the plastic bubble packaging, I installed the rechargeable NMHi battery, plugged the little USB receiver into a vacant USB slot in my Macintosh and the wireless Explorer Mouse immediately scurried into operation. Using 2.4 GHz wireless technology, (*NOT Bluetooth technology) the wireless Explorer Mouse is able communicate quite well with the Mac once configured in the Apple Mouse Preferences Panel. With Leopard 10.5.6 there was no need to install the intellimouse drivers, so things were off to a great start. The Wireless Explorer Mouse (s) seems capable of doing whatever Apple’s Mighty Mouse can do - Scroll North and South as well as East and West. The wireless Explorer Mouse can do a lot more too, once you configure your mouse preferences to fulfill your personal needs.

Rodent Alert! - this mouse is primarily designed as A RIGHT HANDED mouse. If you use the wireless Explorer Mouse in the LEFT hand, it will work, but it may take some getting used to as the molded edges feel more naturally oriented for use in the Right hand. I am a left handed person, but I happen to use my mouse with my RIGHT hand so I wasn’t feeling short handed. It is the bulky size and additional weight of the wireless Explorer Mouse desktop model that is something I need to get used to after handling the smaller and lighter styled Apple Mighty mouse for the last couple years.

Microsoft Wireless Explorer Mini Mouse with BlueTrack Technology

When laser technology was introduced, it was a welcome improvement over the old Ball Style Mouse but the Red beamed laser had it limitations and did not track well on all surfaces. So the search for better beam technology has continued. I am pleased to report that this *BlueTrack laser system which Microsoft unabashedly advertises to ‘work on any surface’, tests out pretty good. ‘BlueTrack works more places than ever before, including on granite countertops, carpet—even on a wood table or a rough, unfinished park bench’.Except for mirror or glass surfaces, ‘BlueTrack’ laser technology is a positive advancement and I have found the it to be very solid – Throw away your Mouse Pads – Yaaaaay!

So here is where I am trapped – I almost like these ‘Meeses to pieces’. I like the smaller size and lighter feel of the wireless Explorer MINI Mouse but I like the recharging features of the wireless Explorer Mouse DESKTOP. The wireless Explorer Mouse desktop version includes the NmHi battery and charging base while the wireless Explorer Mini Mouse comes with a handy Neoprene travel case an Alkaline Battery which supposedly provides 4 months or more of service. Each wireless Explorer Mouse model has a slot on the bottom surface to snap in the miniature ‘USB Receiver’ when traveling, keeping all the little components together. Maybe Microsoft should offer a specially priced Wireless Explorer Dual Pack to give us the best of both worlds.

The mighty chase for me has ended for now. Until Apple comes out with a solution for the mighty mouse, faulty ball issue, I will be sticking to the Microsoft Wireless Explorer Mouse to do my Apple Computing.

Microsoft Wireless Explorer Mouse $89.99 CDN

With NmH rechargeable battery, handy recharger, USB receiver

Microsoft Wireless Explore Mini Mouse $69.99 CDN

With Alkaline Battery, Neoprene travel case, USB receiver

Microsoft Mouse Products:

*Note: BlueTrack laser system which tracks the mouses’ movements on the horizontal surface has nothing at all to do with the Bluetooth technology used by some other companies such as Apples wireless Mighty Mouse, to communicate with the computer itself. All this ‘blue’ talk is a little confusing.

Review: Myvu Glasses Ready To Take Off

Jeff Justiz — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 17:40:40 +0000

Years ago, I was flipping through the pages of a catalogue on an airplane and saw what at the time was the greatest invention I had ever seen: A pair of sunglasses with a built-in TV. It advertised that you could sit on the beach and watch your kids while simultaneously watching television. I had dreamt of getting them, and even started saving in hopes of buying that $800 contraption I had only seen a picture of in a catalogue.

I never bought them. In fact, I put the catalogue back in the seat pocket, and left it just as a dream. But with the advent of portable media players such as the iPod and the Zune, it was only a matter of time that a contraption like that would make the leap from niche gadget to mainstream product. So when the Myvu Crystal came my way, I jumped at the chance to play with it.

The glasses themselves are a very sleek design. As I put them on, I noticed they didn’t obstruct my entire view beyond the glasses. I wasn’t sure if this was good or bad, since I could easily be distracted by what was around me, though it also meant I would see something important around me, like if I were on a plane, I’d see a food tray coming and know to move my legs in. The headphones are in-ear style, which would normally be great except this was a loaner from the company that had already been used at least once. At least they put 3 different pairs of covers in the package, though the ones that would have fit me best were the used ones.

The setup itself was easy enough. Plug the glasses into the controller. Choose the gadget you’re watching on, and plug in the corresponding connector to the other side of the controller. If the glasses are low on power, plug in a mini-USB into the controller to charge the battery. Turn it on and go. Seems simple enough.

The first item I tested this with was an iPhone 3G. Imagine my surprise when the first thing that happens is my iPhone giving me the warning that this device was not compatible with it. It suggested I switch to “Airplane Mode.” I declined. I assume the $25 cable sold on the Myvu website eliminates that message. I went to play the movie, but noticed it didn’t start up. As I sat there playing with different settings on the iPhone, I eventually discovered the culprit. In the time it took me to read the warning message and decide what to do – which was 10-15 seconds approximately – the glasses shut themselves off. I turned them back on and away I went.

It took some getting used to, but I had started to get the hang of watching. There are separate screens for each eye, but they are aligned just about perfectly to be seen as one screen. I did notice that the centre of the movie screen would seem slightly fuzzy, like I was watching cross-eyed. This issue eventually faded away as I adjusted to the movie, but eventually, I also noticed that if I tried to look at the sides of the screen, my vision would be a little blurry. Shutting each eye and looking at the edges, it seemed looking at the edges would always be too far out of view for one eye.

I was watching the movie lying down, but I decided to try walking around with them on, while watching the movie. Remember: You can see very easily above and below the screen. The glasses did not have the best fit, so lots of movement caused them to move around a lot. I don’t have this problem with sunglasses. Anytime the glasses moved anywhere other than the proper spot right in front of my eyes, the video would go fuzzy, and I’d have to hold them in place with one hand. I suppose you won’t need to worry if you keep your head against the headrest in a car or airplane.

Having enjoyed the movie, and not having a major complaint about viewing – I’d call these previous comments minor complaints – I decided to try another test. The Myvu Crystal came with connections for an iPod – also with a mini-USB jack in the iPod connector to charge the iPod or iPhone as you watch – as well as standard A/V cables. I hooked it up to my Playstation 2, and tried playing some NHL with it.

NHL was a great game to test these with because it showed me how I needed to take a few tries to get the contrast just right on a mostly white screen. It was also a game with fast action, so I could see if there were any response time issues. There didn’t seem to be. Where issues came up were reading text on the screen, and the glasses’ tendency to slide. Moving my hands really quickly while sitting up caused the glasses to start sliding down my nose, which caused the video to get blurry and small. If anyone had walked by me, they’d see me sitting and playing a game, with my head turned all the way up to keep the glasses in place. It did not do any favours to my back or neck.

The Myvu has to potential to be an incredibly great product. It’s sleek design and convenience for watching movies makes it a great product for people who have over $300 to burn on a gadget of it’s type. For those of us without that luxury, it might be best to wait for some improvements to be made. A better fit for the glasses would be a great start, and interchangeable headphones too. As great of reviews in-ear headphones get, I don’t personally like them. And there could stand to be just a little more room for viewing quality. Finally, 4 hours of battery life means it will last for an entire flight from east to west coast, or east coast to western Europe, minus the take-off and landing. For longer flights, you may have to rely on the airplane video at some point.

Myvu Crystal All-in-One

Retail: $344.85 USD

http://www.myvu.com

Review: Presonus HP 4

Rick Levine — Sat, 24 Jan 2009 18:05:33 +0000

You’ve just set up your digital recording studio and you’re with a couple of other musicans, all ready to record. Suddenly you realize there are not enough headphone jacks for everyone. This is a situation that is initially, easily overlooked.

The primary purpose of the Presonus HP-4 is to provide multiple headphone jacks where originally there is insufficient supply. In the recording studio, multiple headphones are a must and a headphone amplifier such as the HP-4 will allow up to 4 people to listen simultaneously. One of the neat things about he HP-4 is the ability to daisy chain multiple units together if more than 4 headphone sets are required. The HP-4 is quiet, has a crisp clear sound and plenty of volume if needed, for headroom purposes.

The HP-4 is an active device and obtains its power by plugging it into the wall with the included AC adapter. A red LED is illuminated when the device is plugged in and obtaining power. When the MONO button on the front panel is pushed in, each input will be summed together on each output producing a MONO signal which in particular situations can be a handy feature to have.

Aluminum Knobs on the front panel of the cast aluminum HP-4 are spaced evenly enough to allow average / large sized fingers, comfortable manipulation space and the unit does not generate any significant amount of unwanted heat when operational.

The rear panel of the HP-4 has separate Left and Right IN-puts’ as opposed to a single TRS input. In order to connect the HP-4 from a stereo headphone output jack, it will be necessary to obtain a standard ‘INSERT cable’ (Y-cable – single TRS 1?4 inch jack on one end and two TS 1?4 inch jacks on the other) which can be purchased at any pro-music store. The pair of Monitor OUTputs will provide a way to output the signal directly to a pair of powered studio monitors. The audio signals to the speakers can be defeated using the conveniently situated MUTE switch that is located on the front panel of this smartly designed, solidly constructed signal router.

Theoretically the HP-4 can be Rack mounted using a ‘Max Rack and Universal Rack Tray’ but a search of this accessory on the presonus website does not reveal any additional information or pricing.

It’s really a pretty simple device and while there are several others on the market that retail for much less than the HP-4, at the end of the day, the HP-4 is sensibly styled, quality built, with superior sound characteristics and will meet or exceed the professional standards of all other devices in a pro-studio environment.

Presonus, a familiar name to musicians, has a large family of recording/playback interface products designed for use by people in the
professional recording industry. For complete tech specs and additional details visit the Presonus website: http://www.presonus.com/products/Detail.aspx?ProductId=20.

HP-4 retails for around $140.00 CDN

Review: LaCie USB Speakers

Daniel Levine — Sun, 07 Dec 2008 07:26:44 +0000

Seemingly inspired by a PVC tube corner-connector, LaCie’s latest diversion from the world of hard-drive comes in speaker form. Design by Neil Poulton out of France, the LaCie USB Speakers are a modern, lightweight and welcomed addition to the realm of desktop speakers.

The $59.99 (USD) speakers are completely plug and play for both PC and Mac, requiring no drivers. They work over USB which means no need for a power adaptor (they’re bus-powered).

The last time I was impressed by the design of a set of desktop speakers was the harman/kardon Soundsticks (they went great with my iMac G4). Since I stopped using those a few years ago, I haven’t actually used a pair of desktop speakers.

The minimalistic and modern design of the LaCie USB speakers make them an easy addition to any design conscious user. They look great next to a white MacBook or a current generation aluminum MacBook or MacBook Pro.

If there’s one complaint for Apple’s line of notebooks it’s their horrendously low speaker internal speaker volume. When I use my laptop at my desk, the $59.99 the LaCie speakers are an affordable and appreciated addition.

The sound volume of the speakers is considerably good for an office or working space, but don’t expect to wake the neighbours with them. As an audiophile, you may notice some deficiencies on the lows but considering their small physical footprint and overall great quality, this isn’t a huge issue.

While intuitively designed to hide cables and even allow the input of an iPod or other audio device (through a 3.5mm jack), the speakers give no ability for volume control, or volume level feedback on the unit themselves. The audio input has been great, allowing me to connect both my desktop (through the 3.5mm jack) and my laptop (through the USB) to the speakers and use them for both computers while at my desk.

Being USB powered has its obvious costs/benefits. On the plus, the direct digital USB connection provides for a better quality signal to the speakers, while at the same time it means sacrificing an important USB port.

The setup is extremely simple and completely plug and play. Just take the speakers out of the box and insert the USB. You’re ready to go. If for some reason they don’t start to work, just launch System Preferences (or Control Panel on a PC), go to your sound preferences and select the USB Audio Device as your sound output.

These speakers are a great addition and have earned a permanent spot on my desk. There are no alarming trade-offs between form and function, and the apparent focus on both has created a great product at a great price.

andPOP Reviews Lexie Barnes Laptop Bag

andPOP Staff — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 02:59:31 +0000

Lexie Barnes’ website intrigued me from the start, and if nothing else, made me excited to receive the product I was told I was going to review. The simple, elegant but still ‘hip’ design makes Lexi Barnes’ bio on the website seems that much more authentic: ‘Born and raised in Chicago’s spunky Old Town, Lexie spent her childhood tagging along with her dad to gigs in recording studios. There she’d spend hours play-acting, making mischief, and honing her drumming skills.”

Despite her spunky past, Barnes ended up living in New England with her four kids and now has a career in designing and distributing bags. The Lexie Barnes line includes everything from luggage tags to messenger bags, and comes in three distinct patterns: Utopia, Pacifica, and Diablo. The style-conscious laptop owner would be most interested in her laptop bag – a welcome respite from the massive monochromatic monstrosities that are the standard.

The two strongest aspects of the Lexie Barnes laptop bags are the two things that most laptop bags aren’t: stylish and sleek. Any student who eagerly awaited the purchase of their first laptop before they headed off to university or college will probably recall the huge, probably black case that you used with your new techno-toy. I know mine was heavy, massive, and I quickly decided that I did not want to lug the laptop-and-bag combo to class every day. The Lexie Barnes bag, however, is hardly bigger than my laptop, a trade-off resulting in a lack of extra padding protection that one may want.

A laptop bag like this is perfect for people who are commuting to and from work or school, as the bag takes up minimal space and allows for easy access if you want to pull out your computer and do some work while you travel. The bright, colourful patterns also ensure if your bag is stolen or lost, it will be easy to find and indentify. The adjustable strap ensures that users can make the bag as comfortable as possible to carry.

The biggest downside to the sleek design is fact that the dreaded bulkiness does return as soon as you try to store anything of a significant size in it. I was struggling with the zipper a little when I put my power cord in the bag – and unless you have a Mac Book air, this will probably be an issue with most laptops. Appearance-wise, there are only three patterns to choose from, all of which are very bright, and, well, very ‘loud’. If you’re a person who is more into neutral colours, these bags probably won’t appeal to you.

Another downside to the laptop bags is the price – from $90 to $100, depending on the size you need to accommodate your laptop. Considering that you can get a hardcover, leather laptop bag for around $80 makes me think that the nylon-and-cloth Lexie Barnes bag is a bit overpriced. I totally understand why people would shell out the money for a stylish bag, but I feel like with the Lexie Barnes bags, you are paying more for the colorful patterns than for the actual product.