tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7384629103620931112024-03-05T04:51:41.096-08:00The Daily AcquisitionRandom Thoughts About Obsessive Purchasing Behavior, Acquisition Disorder, and Analysis ParalysisUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger100125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738462910362093111.post-72504242947940343832014-11-30T19:43:00.002-08:002014-11-30T19:43:42.759-08:00Sennheiser HD 239 HeadphonesWow, I've ignored this blog for so long. I hope a few people are still interested in what I have to say. With that out of the way . . . I acquired another set of headphones (a long time ago, but laziness and lack of time have caused an impressive delay in writing about them). Another set of Sennheiser cans: the HD 239 model.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyCiohMHSAX9t1rqlJpFfOS91WUUpLEqYaAx6cn0rga8u3AATH00KE3A8DO1NeWrUhn0oJAjkq72xrDxT973IhWjHWTxxmM9ZocBx6u50WZbQUNtF4AALL6g6JQDuI4JLWBfVFlxh2Hw0/s1600/IMG_7259.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyCiohMHSAX9t1rqlJpFfOS91WUUpLEqYaAx6cn0rga8u3AATH00KE3A8DO1NeWrUhn0oJAjkq72xrDxT973IhWjHWTxxmM9ZocBx6u50WZbQUNtF4AALL6g6JQDuI4JLWBfVFlxh2Hw0/s1600/IMG_7259.JPG" height="200" width="150" /></a></div>
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My process went like this: (1) finally got my "decent" audio (home theater) system set up at home; (2) decided to bring my "decent" office headphones (Sennheiser HD 650) home for proper use with my home rig; (3) took my Sony MDR-ZX700 closed headphones to work; (4) concluded that I really need and prefer open cans at the office (so that I can hear phone calls, people yelling at me, intruders, etc.), but wanted to get something better than the portable <a href="http://dailyacquisition.blogspot.com/2014/02/sennheiser-px-100-ii-portable-headphones.html" target="_blank">Sennheiser PX-100-II headphones</a>, and wanted to get something other than Grados, which I've had before; (5) a fair amount of research and good pricing on Amazon led me to the HD 239.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLt3c54dnNafPxHXDqtmzgEB2BOXP30ykaN73Tg8gPHwTrttGxmjQ5-gkocBzcOAKwDOgl-OvZxmhiOSrpvU27QZAEE1538vcZpsOOATY_vz75L_SFqTTsyS4as72klMbGf6x9KzItlxk/s1600/IMG_7264.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLt3c54dnNafPxHXDqtmzgEB2BOXP30ykaN73Tg8gPHwTrttGxmjQ5-gkocBzcOAKwDOgl-OvZxmhiOSrpvU27QZAEE1538vcZpsOOATY_vz75L_SFqTTsyS4as72klMbGf6x9KzItlxk/s1600/IMG_7264.JPG" height="200" width="150" /></a></div>
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I like these headphones. There is a single, thin, and somewhat short cable with an eighth-inch plug (no adapter is included). The lightweight cable is nice at the office; no heavy or bulky cord bothering me as I stare at the computer. The headphones look good without being flashy or tacky. They don't look like something that anyone on the train or at school might think are expensive enough to steal. The ear pads are really soft and comfy, although the frame may be a little tight for those with large craniums, especially if worn for extended periods of time. The compact ear pads are small enough so that I can wear my glasses without much additional discomfort.<br />
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How do they sound? Better than the Sennheiser PX-100-II, comparable to the Sony MDR-ZX700 (which I prefer when additional isolation is needed), but inferior to the Sennheiser HD 650 (as are many other headphones).<br />
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Postscript: I never use headphones with my home system, so my Sennheiser HD 650 cans are back at the office. I use the Sennheiser HD 239 headphones with my portable music players and phone when lounging around the house, and I use the Sennheiser PX 100-II when out and about.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738462910362093111.post-64922451899901890202014-10-12T15:18:00.000-07:002014-10-12T15:18:15.908-07:00Hot/Not Swapping Lamy Nibs?Ha ha ha very funny. Whoever told me that "hot swapping" Lamy nibs is easy to do . . . is a liar. I just pulled off the ridiculously scratchy and always-clogging EF nib from my Lamy Vista (with a converter full of dark blue-black ink), and exchanged it for an F. The "F" in this case stands for Fail. The adhesive tape trick didn't work so well due to the wet nib. I finally managed to yank the EF nib from the feed, but I almost lost it down the drain. Ink splattered all over the sink and my fingers got a nice dosing of blue-black.<br />
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I thought I'd be smart and use a tissue to hold the F nib during installation, but that resulted in a tissue fragment getting caught between the edge of the nib and the feed. So I had to remove the F nib, clean it off, and re-install it. Good times.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738462910362093111.post-58970988643770740482014-10-04T17:35:00.000-07:002014-10-04T17:35:04.134-07:00Nussbaum Pen Co. - "Jon Ross" Fountain PenMany fountain pen fanatics are familiar with <a href="http://www.isellpens.com/default.asp" target="_blank">iSellPens</a>, an online pen vendor. I've had nothing but great service from iSellPens, and highly recommend them. OK, enough with the free plug . . . I only mention iSellPens because you will find the Nussbaum Pen Co. (the house brand) on that site. Many months ago I acquired a Nussbaum pen (the Jon Ross Series, with Blue Rings), but I no longer see it listed on their web site. Perhaps they are discontinued or are in the middle of a restock. Oh well, here is a picture of the pen (pardon the food particles on the counter):<br />
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The pen is really handsome, and the fit and finish is outstanding for a pen that cost $45.00 (full online retail price). The black resin is nicely offset by the silver embellishments and the sparkly blue rings. The resin body is pretty solid, and the pen feels heavy to me (it weighs about 26 grams with an ink cartridge installed). The cap can be posted, and the pen feels comfortable in the hand. The "Nussbaum" branding and the blue ring can be seen better in the following picture.</div>
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At the time of purchase, this pen was only available with a medium steel nib. More specifically, an "Iridium Point Germany M" nib. The nib doesn't give very much and, if I'm honest, it doesn't write as consistently as I'd like (especially when using impenetrable paper such as Rhodia). By this I mean that the pen skips more often than it should, and sometimes the ink flow seems to be lacking. Perhaps the nib just needs a minor adjustment or a tune up. The bottom line is that I prefer the writing experience of my Sailor Pro Gear (medium), my Pelikan M205 (extra fine), and my Pilot Custom Heritage 91 (fine). But those are very good pens that are considerably more expensive than the Nussbaum Jon Ross.<br />
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I found it interesting that the threads for the cap are located at the very end of the body, rather than on the grip section. I guess this makes the grip smoother to avoid fingertip chafing? Or maybe it's designed that way to seal the cap better? Or maybe I simply need to get out more often.<br />
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I will end this post with a picture of a small writing sample that I created with the Nussbaum pen, Diamine Emerald ink, and a small Rhodia pad of paper. That is all.<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738462910362093111.post-45378818065382925682014-09-16T07:42:00.002-07:002014-09-16T07:42:47.938-07:00Skateboard Acquisition DisorderAlthough I recently bought a new skateboard deck, I'm still on the lookout for an ideal new shape to ride. Soon after I published my last post, my local skate shop let me know that they stocked a slightly smaller version of my new deck. That quickly led to the acquisition of my second new deck: the medium version of the Creature Heathen series.<br />
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This deck is 8.375 inches wide, 32 inches long, and (importantly) it has a wheelbase of 14.5 inches. That hits the sweet spot for me. To be honest, the actual real world shape and size of this deck is almost identical to the large version that was the subject of my last post. I guess I'll just keep this one as a backup in case the other one breaks.</div>
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So . . . I was at the skate shop today killing time and some decks from Welcome Skateboards caught my eye due to their atypical shapes. Most of them were a little too wide for me, but a few looked right on target. I borrowed the shop's tape measure and found one that should do the trick: the Fate Owl graphic on the Wormtail shape.</div>
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Some quick online research provided some detailed specs. The board is 8.4 inches wide, 32.5 inches long, and it has the perfect 14.5 inch wheelbase. I really like the "rounded square" nose and tail of this deck, which is a departure from the traditional popsicle stick shape that I usually ride. It looks cool, and I hope it rides well.</div>
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The line of Welcome Skateboards is refreshing because they have a lot of different and unusual shapes. I like how the company names the different shapes so that picky anal retentive OCD skaters can easily identify their favorite shape. The graphics are sick, too, and you can find the same (or similar) graphics on different shapes. Thus, Welcome Skateboards are offered as a combo of shape + graphic, e.g., Fate Owl on Wormtail. The shop also had the Wolfgod graphic on the Wormtail shape, but my son wanted me to pick the Fate Owl, and he's the boss. If I'm honest, I prefer the graphic on the top of the deck. I also like the shade of the green stain on the top. Too bad all of it will be covered by grip tape.</div>
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Although the pictures don't reveal it, the deck has a nice concave to it. I suspect that the deck began life as a standard rectangular blank that was simply cut into the Wormtail shape. It doesn't really matter as long as the end product works. In this case, the deck was made by a well known and reputable manufacturer that has been around for decades. I have no doubt that this is a high quality deck.</div>
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With this latest acquisition of wood, I am now riding a relatively new Creature Heathen (Large) deck while foaming at the mouth because I really want to set up my new Welcome deck. Moreover, I am guilt tripping myself because I have a brand new Creature Heathen (Medium) deck waiting in the wings. There are two or three other shapes by Welcome Skateboards that have also piqued my interest. They might be the subject of a future post!</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738462910362093111.post-6262511961623291302014-09-02T07:50:00.000-07:002014-09-02T07:50:40.188-07:00Creature Skateboard DeckIt's always great to acquire and set up a new skateboard deck. I'm talking about a deck that will actually be ridden, not some <a href="http://dailyacquisition.blogspot.com/2013/06/skateboard-deck-by-craig-driscoll.html" target="_blank">hand-painted work of art</a>. This is actually my THIRD deck I've ridden in the last week, because I'm pretty much a poster boy for OCD when it comes to the dimensions and specifications of my skate decks. Before I get to that, let me share a couple of pictures of this new deck by Creature Skateboards.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgti1gmi1vP2eNCg-iptejTYZFDN7A6-vn_Nc9TaYZWGKJ0y4MzBVwcnta22sCiWaI6DKEGkwd6z5tcv81cwFaQzBa-_Hnes2eM4jxLUfmQ0hmyN7hL-7wSQaHqEL5U5QXkjsqYmBwfVfE/s1600/IMG_7632.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgti1gmi1vP2eNCg-iptejTYZFDN7A6-vn_Nc9TaYZWGKJ0y4MzBVwcnta22sCiWaI6DKEGkwd6z5tcv81cwFaQzBa-_Hnes2eM4jxLUfmQ0hmyN7hL-7wSQaHqEL5U5QXkjsqYmBwfVfE/s1600/IMG_7632.JPG" height="200" width="63" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnoqGmFdcL1ykw0JQi0xKptPp4KTIUGXnNV4NGnWfGjEqBDv-w_hr51JZGjOv6rcBEozhEzFsBOlcGSkJpL06wgUSpMmd-vgM1QZaJCKnXY7iC0ieiHncRv7PxP8VU97U6kcHA7Jl5RyU/s1600/IMG_7633.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnoqGmFdcL1ykw0JQi0xKptPp4KTIUGXnNV4NGnWfGjEqBDv-w_hr51JZGjOv6rcBEozhEzFsBOlcGSkJpL06wgUSpMmd-vgM1QZaJCKnXY7iC0ieiHncRv7PxP8VU97U6kcHA7Jl5RyU/s1600/IMG_7633.JPG" height="200" width="70" /></a></div>
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The deck is part of Creature's "Heathen" series, and I got the large size (8.5 inches wide, 32.25 inches long). 8.5 inches is usually too wide for me, but this particular deck actually measures in at around 8.25 inches wide, which is my preference. The all-important wheelbase dimension (close to 14.5 inches), however, is nearly perfect for me. The wheelbase of my last deck, which I rode for only a couple of days, was too short and caused numerous issues involving gravity, momentum, inertia, and centripetal force. Now, this deck isn't really ideal, but it's the closest thing that I could find in my local skate shop. Besides, the graphics are sick!</div>
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The bright green colorway seems to be a trademark of Creature Skateboards. The deck appears to be dipped in green paint, which covers both the top (see above picture on the left) and the bottom (see above picture on the right). The artwork is by Brandon Holt. The Internet tells me that Mr. Holt is a tattoo artist, and that the skateboard graphics you see here are indicative of his style.</div>
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Here is a closeup picture of the "Creature" graphic that appears on the top of the deck. I plan to keep this graphic exposed rather than cover it up with griptape.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOTLym6_BEssMw5DbRrZI2Up6eDKGqU0r7v-3PSiElwAfiOUZKhUlAGS7jQh4Y_QnMpcn6qlYgmKvcbe6rnNUrYTiM2JfEa86dLwhIO4RWE20ryAamIoABGLKFDcO7WwkX3DlDPMbUSh4/s1600/IMG_7635.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOTLym6_BEssMw5DbRrZI2Up6eDKGqU0r7v-3PSiElwAfiOUZKhUlAGS7jQh4Y_QnMpcn6qlYgmKvcbe6rnNUrYTiM2JfEa86dLwhIO4RWE20ryAamIoABGLKFDcO7WwkX3DlDPMbUSh4/s1600/IMG_7635.JPG" height="131" width="200" /></a></div>
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And here is a closeup picture of some badass four-legged dragon-winged lizard-tailed buzzard creature perched atop a mountain of human skulls. The dripping saliva/blood is a nice touch that really punctuates the image. Too bad it will be completely obliterated after a few days of skateboarding.</div>
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This beauty should keep me occupied for a while. That said, I'm thinking of pushing the envelope beyond my comfort zone and trying a deck that measures a true 8.5 inches wide with a true 15.0 inch wheelbase. Unfortunately (fortunately?) that might require the acquisition of new trucks and wheels, too. Stay tuned.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738462910362093111.post-14388302067051571512014-08-18T08:05:00.000-07:002014-08-18T08:05:34.495-07:00Maratac FlashlightI've concluded that AAA flashlights are ideal for EDC purposes, which means that said flashlights are on my acquisition wish list. I'm still a big fan of my <a href="http://dailyacquisition.blogspot.com/2014/04/olight-i3s-flashlight.html" target="_blank">Olight i3S</a>, and use it regularly. Nevertheless, I've had my eye on the Maratac torch for a while and I finally decided to buy one.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyKjXflhz2Ohg7chrbfFwspPPy8svqIFkqLao_ytH2SZXVRo4v-95OeJM1Yf7ha3-ROipfBmwe1S3uyuLeJUpaWsLUjCo2sevKDDbVqY6bO9bZC_5_MrWe4Y50Xk1bw3Qw6yzoXw9j7Nc/s1600/20131027_001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyKjXflhz2Ohg7chrbfFwspPPy8svqIFkqLao_ytH2SZXVRo4v-95OeJM1Yf7ha3-ROipfBmwe1S3uyuLeJUpaWsLUjCo2sevKDDbVqY6bO9bZC_5_MrWe4Y50Xk1bw3Qw6yzoXw9j7Nc/s1600/20131027_001.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
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I got this little gem from CountyComm (I believe this is the only online source, but I could be wrong) for the not-quite-affordable price of about $30.00. The flashlight is solid, well-built, and works great, so perhaps the $30.00 price tag is justified. By the way, I got the basic black Rev 3 version of the flashlight, which is the latest and greatest model as of this writing.<br />
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The flashlight arrived in a plastic box, which seems to be mislabeled "Maratac Extreme" (the CountyComm website says that the Extreme is discontinued). Whatever. The description on the label is really impressive. Aircraft grade! Type III Military anodizing! Anti-Reflective lens coating! Proprietary circuit design! Reverse polarity protection! All that for the low low price of only $30.00; what a bargain!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS47YWFVOFwSYuH7loE5Fl7G3ZSscIJHQyKiQBHUsx9Ht4znF8e9GOlnSfIKtfwjUpnWzm2ZJU6pjwu76qXnbR4HvfPx4gyeTJ9CaPCWf3jKGb4YaYab-9_V9R1sRrd7eoT1P5RPtFk-s/s1600/20131027_005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS47YWFVOFwSYuH7loE5Fl7G3ZSscIJHQyKiQBHUsx9Ht4znF8e9GOlnSfIKtfwjUpnWzm2ZJU6pjwu76qXnbR4HvfPx4gyeTJ9CaPCWf3jKGb4YaYab-9_V9R1sRrd7eoT1P5RPtFk-s/s1600/20131027_005.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
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Marketing language aside, there is a lot to like about the Maratac AAA. According to the website, the flashlight is only 2.75 inches long, with a diameter of 0.5 inches. It has a twisty UI (which is common in the flashlight world) that steps through three levels as follows: Medium-Low-High. Damn, I would gladly trade the Military grade anti-reflective reverse lens coating for a Low-Medium-High pattern. Note that the Low mode generates a fair amount of light (1.5 lumens) . . . I wouldn't call it a moonlight mode. Medium = 40 lumens, and High = 138 blinding lumens.<br />
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Although this flashlight looks all "tactical" in flat black with gnarly knurling, it does not include any of those crazy modes that you often find in tactical lights. No disco strobe light, no emergency beacon pattern, and no S-O-S mode. So, if you plan on getting lost or stranded somewhere, don't take this flashlight.<br />
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The Maratac comes with a cool glow in the dark diffuser cap, which works as advertised. I was unable to capture a good shot in the dark, so just imagine that the diffuser in the following picture is illuminated like a deployed lightsaber.<br />
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I really like, but don't love, this flashlight. It would be perfect (for my use) if the activation pattern progressed from low to high, and if the low mode was actually a moonlight level. AAA perfection is out there, I just need to find it.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738462910362093111.post-24247549532912166532014-07-28T07:42:00.000-07:002014-07-28T07:42:27.163-07:00Platinum Pro-Use Drafting PencilI acquired yet another mechanical drafting pencil. I really had a moment of weakness here. I don't even use pencils that often, and I certainly didn't need a new one. That said, I have no regret or buyer's remorse because the Platinum Pro-Use is super cool. Just look at the thing:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-9whvOL0adlZu6GEDaDsbJ2J4ziQ-Hr5mnm8meliSmLCgM69-vQLbH6eJeT4pfsmNxpHhQRjxRIyA0SoMm9TbfVqgVtbyVRH0v8Q34sPeIgr60aXj6CtAGZVoamCtmUoNIr0FgtbDzHE/s1600/IMG_7219.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-9whvOL0adlZu6GEDaDsbJ2J4ziQ-Hr5mnm8meliSmLCgM69-vQLbH6eJeT4pfsmNxpHhQRjxRIyA0SoMm9TbfVqgVtbyVRH0v8Q34sPeIgr60aXj6CtAGZVoamCtmUoNIr0FgtbDzHE/s1600/IMG_7219.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
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I don't remember how much I paid, but the Internet tells me that this pencil is now going for about 15 dollars. That's a lot for a pencil, but the Pro-Use is very well made and sturdy, and the fit and finish is great. I opted for the 0.5 mm size (0.3 mm and 0.7 mm sizes are also available), which has become my standard lead size. Platinum is nice enough to provide a big fat lead size reminder on the tail cap:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEGVHjY3WHciEtVY3Sta9Nmw2Vp93oGHEFh9RiC1nrU2W084wnJ-juY-N6_V4eerRXH69OSROoCO7BaIXqnTB2w_YM-PwqNqJiqAlVcHeMWzIV1paeoTyUIbCKPd2yZO9mUoW7czFgvsQ/s1600/IMG_7222.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEGVHjY3WHciEtVY3Sta9Nmw2Vp93oGHEFh9RiC1nrU2W084wnJ-juY-N6_V4eerRXH69OSROoCO7BaIXqnTB2w_YM-PwqNqJiqAlVcHeMWzIV1paeoTyUIbCKPd2yZO9mUoW7czFgvsQ/s1600/IMG_7222.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
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Although Platinum probably has a better reputation for its fountain pens, I'm impressed here. I really like the brushed metal finish of this pencil, and the overall "look, I'm a rocket ship" design aesthetic. The grip is fat and meaty, and it features some groovy channels that wick away your sweat during those aggressive penciling sessions. If I'm honest, I think that the grip section ought to be a little longer (extending further up the body). Other than that, I have no complaints. The pencil is well balanced, not too heavy and not too light, and it has a lead hardness indicator above the grip section. I assume that this is important to people who pencil for a living.<br />
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Even though I don't use this writing instrument that much - perhaps only two pieces of lead so far - I still recommend it highly. If you are a fan of mechanical or drafting pencils and/or you collect shiny metal objects, then check out the Platinum Pro-Use.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738462910362093111.post-55107151435302207412014-07-05T09:09:00.001-07:002014-07-05T09:09:08.863-07:00Sencha Fukamushi Super Premium (From Hibiki-An)I recently acquired some Japanese green tea from the online retailer <a href="http://www.hibiki-an.com/index.php" target="_blank">Hibiki-An</a>. I don't work for them and they do not sponsor me or give me any kickbacks (although I'd be happy to receive money, tea, or some of their ridiculously expensive matcha bowls as a token of appreciation). I believe that Hibiki-An grows, processes, and sells their tea; unlike other online vendors that may simply serve as distributors. Anyway, I got a bag of their Sencha Fukamushi Super Premium. I like this tea.<div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ax7dUstoppY/U7gcMVh8TaI/AAAAAAAABLk/JfsxWtX_0cQ/s1600/IMG_7345.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ax7dUstoppY/U7gcMVh8TaI/AAAAAAAABLk/JfsxWtX_0cQ/s1600/IMG_7345.JPG" height="200" width="150" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Pm1Xt7EzI1M/U7gcY8CvqGI/AAAAAAAABLs/cqOTI1Uc01I/s1600/IMG_7346.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Pm1Xt7EzI1M/U7gcY8CvqGI/AAAAAAAABLs/cqOTI1Uc01I/s1600/IMG_7346.JPG" height="200" style="cursor: move;" width="150" /></a></div>
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Fukamushi is a type of sencha that is subjected to longer/deeper steaming during the processing of the tea leaves. This results in smaller pieces of tea in the final product, which in turn results in a sweeter and more "full bodied" taste relative to regular sencha. You can see some of the fine particles of tea dust in the following picture.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfmu4iwRILB8Kc263z9OAu5jpqfssDv8S7QyEwew0zgX8LJmx4zJoNIGD4ygnk3ox3KBj7RLh1pWAIM8AmZbZLtsJUEavzHCBC5Xm6vad0Cs3bN2QqPt8OjJJ5_M3l8oZS1-3fPaBjRkA/s1600/IMG_7347.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfmu4iwRILB8Kc263z9OAu5jpqfssDv8S7QyEwew0zgX8LJmx4zJoNIGD4ygnk3ox3KBj7RLh1pWAIM8AmZbZLtsJUEavzHCBC5Xm6vad0Cs3bN2QqPt8OjJJ5_M3l8oZS1-3fPaBjRkA/s1600/IMG_7347.JPG" height="200" width="150" /></a></div>
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The back of the package includes Hibiki-An's preferred brewing recipe. You can customize the flavor of the tea by varying the amount of tea and water, the water temperature, and the brewing time. I don't have a special fukamushi brewing vessel; I use my standard kyusu, which probably isn't ideal because the strainer doesn't catch all of the tea particles during the pour.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUOmQ2uwnVM4K9hnjL8I8zipPV9aZjuaY9n643oajYCxQlq2QiQxfCbhbwNmdd95dplvryByjIBVfxyDQZUN3kBXjNB3uGvIji6ZXOB0y3dQ_HmP_0mt3rgX2MDMJNf5HLPh4tFHrKswo/s1600/IMG_7348.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUOmQ2uwnVM4K9hnjL8I8zipPV9aZjuaY9n643oajYCxQlq2QiQxfCbhbwNmdd95dplvryByjIBVfxyDQZUN3kBXjNB3uGvIji6ZXOB0y3dQ_HmP_0mt3rgX2MDMJNf5HLPh4tFHrKswo/s1600/IMG_7348.JPG" height="200" width="150" /></a></div>
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I won't try to describe the flavor profile in detail, because the taste can vary from day to day depending on how I brew the tea. Generally speaking, I would say that the tea is balanced with a slightly sweet aftertaste. Not bitter, and not too "grassy" or "veggie" tasting. In view of its relatively high price, however, I'd hesitate to buy this tea again. That said, I would gladly accept a free bag or lifetime supply from Hibiki-An if they decide to sponsor me.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738462910362093111.post-63203681108698775542014-06-21T18:58:00.002-07:002014-06-21T18:58:53.743-07:00Shave Soap & Shaving CreamI've been doing the traditional wet shaving routine with a double-edged razor for a relatively long time now, and I've kicked the habit of trying to find the best shaving products to use. I admit to buying too many different shave soaps and shaving creams in an attempt to find a holy grail that really doesn't exist (and even if one does, nobody really cares that much; we're talking about shaving your face here, not a cure for cancer).<div>
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Traditional shaving cream is WAY better than the gel, foam, and slime that you commonly find in convenient pressurized cans. One of the best shaving creams that I've used is this one from The Real Shaving Co.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqeH0YF2w2rA-HOFEzWEI8CqTZLiDOnbfnX4z4Pv0wvsnzkzgKR66Pl9hoJ98gViRRmBUBdDzD_FSVloj7tHNESMTl0G-nwd7_DRXFFrTdvTN6o86zIg3dX6iFap3fQNn9C4p0Mad1Chc/s1600/IMG_7138.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqeH0YF2w2rA-HOFEzWEI8CqTZLiDOnbfnX4z4Pv0wvsnzkzgKR66Pl9hoJ98gViRRmBUBdDzD_FSVloj7tHNESMTl0G-nwd7_DRXFFrTdvTN6o86zIg3dX6iFap3fQNn9C4p0Mad1Chc/s1600/IMG_7138.JPG" height="200" width="150" /></a></div>
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This stuff is manufactured by the same company that produces shaving cream for famous and expensive brands such as Truefitt & Hill. In fact, I believe that the basic composition is the same regardless of the brand. The ingredients are listed on the tube:</div>
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You'll find a virtually identical ingredient list on high-end branded shaving cream, but you'll pay 3-5 times as much. So, this product from The Real Shaving Co. is super economical, available at some local drug stores (Rite Aid, for example), and a tube lasts forever. Buy a tube if you see one on the shelf next to a can of slime.</div>
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Some shave soaps are much better than the aforementioned canned goods. Things can get a little hairy when dealing with shave soap, however, because some are difficult to lather up, some do not perform well, and some smell terrible. I recently acquired a stick of soap (lime scented) from Mike's Natural Soaps, and it falls into the "much better" category.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPMn35WR3E3222KUPv81gYvPZrkevTXyuWyTrzgnPnRdqRD-eUlJ7Hm9x7m9dLqd2uabKAhNCfgLBf-BAtuxkcLSgFQLrD-VQqNUqeE8l5HmoBgbO0NVW8BiQSoEt9IO_CD1VNRVJVZoE/s1600/IMG_7141.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPMn35WR3E3222KUPv81gYvPZrkevTXyuWyTrzgnPnRdqRD-eUlJ7Hm9x7m9dLqd2uabKAhNCfgLBf-BAtuxkcLSgFQLrD-VQqNUqeE8l5HmoBgbO0NVW8BiQSoEt9IO_CD1VNRVJVZoE/s1600/IMG_7141.JPG" height="200" width="151" /></a></div>
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It looks like deodorant or antiperspirant, but it's shave soap packaged in a form that can be directly applied to the skin before whipping it into a foamy lather with a shaving brush. I found the stick to be a little inconvenient, so I removed the soap and smashed it into a soap dish for use with a brush in a more traditional manner.</div>
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Anyway, this guy Mike knows how to make shave soap. The soap is old school because it's made with tallow and lanolin (vegans beware). The soap lathers up quickly and easily, the lather is really slick, and the natural lime scent isn't overpowering or artificial. After using the lime soap for a while, I decided to acquire a tin of Mike's "Orange, Cedarwood, & Black Pepper" shave soap. I think the basic soap formula and quality are the same . . . it just smells different. I like both of Mike's soaps enough to become a repeat customer.</div>
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That's about all for now. Two products that work well and improve the shaving experience. Good stuff.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738462910362093111.post-13591079780408748552014-05-26T08:55:00.002-07:002014-05-26T08:55:41.306-07:00New WASD KeyboardI'm happy to report that I temporarily kicked my keyboard (and keyboard-related accessory) acquisition disorder. Indeed, I hadn't spent a dime on anything associated with keyboards for more than a year. Until . . . one day at work, after gleefully hammering away on my Filco (which is outfitted with "clicky" blue Cherry switches), a co-worker subtly hinted that my keyboard was too noisy. My response of "That's nothing, you should hear how awesome it sounds without the sound-deadening Shore 40A durometer o-rings installed!" fell on deaf ears. This news bummed me out a little, but also got me thinking about a return to the quieter "tactile" brown Cherry switches. Keyboard Acquisition Mode: ON.<br />
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If you are interested in the backstory, read <a href="http://dailyacquisition.blogspot.com/2012/08/key-caps.html" target="_blank">THIS</a>, and <a href="http://dailyacquisition.blogspot.com/2012/09/another-keyboard-facelift.html" target="_blank">THIS</a>, and <a href="http://dailyacquisition.blogspot.com/2013/03/clear-key-caps.html" target="_blank">THIS</a>, or search for posts tagged with the "keyboard" label.<br />
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I didn't really do much research before deciding to acquire a "blank" keyboard with brown switches from WASD Keyboards. "Blank" in this context means "sold without any keycaps and shipped in a nice understated box".<br />
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Blank keyboards are really intended for keyboard geeks who already own a set of replacement keycaps and are not interested in boring unattractive stock keycaps. So, inside the box you will find this:</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgySGNCBLqyYm3wxHidUmQ_sZMf1wzyv6M-St_xW6qJbmNX4mqTMl0xLZq4v3WxpRAbmswy2Etiss-eQZBy5BjInidPTmJfMhGsg7e3JbhD7HV6VZToEMZlZldhynVXxKKHenYQKKn6NdE/s1600/IMG_7268.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="display: inline !important; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgySGNCBLqyYm3wxHidUmQ_sZMf1wzyv6M-St_xW6qJbmNX4mqTMl0xLZq4v3WxpRAbmswy2Etiss-eQZBy5BjInidPTmJfMhGsg7e3JbhD7HV6VZToEMZlZldhynVXxKKHenYQKKn6NdE/s1600/IMG_7268.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brown Switches, Duh</td></tr>
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The box also contains everything needed to install the keycaps and get the keyboard up and running. In the following picture you can see a keycap puller, a USB cable, a USB-to-PS adapter, clip thingies and lube for the keycap stabilizers, and instructions.</div>
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Swapping out my keycaps was very easy, but really time consuming. The finished keyboard is shown below. I like that the chassis is void of branding and stickers. It's just basic black.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmW6xRyCdnfLWyw8JQFcJZiOwSGq6AJG-V_gdI9GM-VOpUVZasUc-fooMNz4X9ho2XXZa_GbrYRhXN0BPevYI__T5VSyl3OR72Zg55VjR4XnqeBY2t6gIVA8POnEpbLHoVy5eBPRp5oLA/s1600/IMG_7270.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmW6xRyCdnfLWyw8JQFcJZiOwSGq6AJG-V_gdI9GM-VOpUVZasUc-fooMNz4X9ho2XXZa_GbrYRhXN0BPevYI__T5VSyl3OR72Zg55VjR4XnqeBY2t6gIVA8POnEpbLHoVy5eBPRp5oLA/s1600/IMG_7270.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
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I kept the sound-dampeners on the keycaps that get the majority of day-to-day use, as a peace offering to my acoustically hypersensitive coworker. The brown switches are definitely quieter, and typing on them is buttery smooth. I actually prefer the fingerfeel of the brown switches over the blue switches.<br />
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Again, the keyboard has no labeling or branding on it. It does, however, have two pinhole LED indicators for Caps Lock and Scroll Lock. These indicator lights are subtle, which I prefer over larger LEDs that tend to emit a blinding amount of energy.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAZouxr0pQXXIyjU7MuD9mhXSAWm5n0V7Ru9z4_lwn3gjtuOKhvTWG1zzi2xXreVFmxnV0PYV6uE_mSemp1OzbCDdIW0jZOzuoETuSNLm2KIPMHzvkIgV1X_jpjd0o0PeHwQhXaW8IcZ8/s1600/IMG_7271.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAZouxr0pQXXIyjU7MuD9mhXSAWm5n0V7Ru9z4_lwn3gjtuOKhvTWG1zzi2xXreVFmxnV0PYV6uE_mSemp1OzbCDdIW0jZOzuoETuSNLm2KIPMHzvkIgV1X_jpjd0o0PeHwQhXaW8IcZ8/s1600/IMG_7271.JPG" height="200" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">LED Indicators</td></tr>
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The brown stems of the switches can be seen through the clear keycaps. Meh, the brown color is ugly in comparison to the bright color used for the blue switches. Moreover, I still prefer the clicky noise that the blue switches generate. That said, the typing feel and muffled sound of my new keyboard are perfect for my workplace environment. Accordingly, Keyboard Acquisition Mode: OFF.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738462910362093111.post-82350121901091432752014-05-08T07:28:00.000-07:002014-05-08T07:28:07.194-07:00Diamine Ink Cartridges (Sample Box)This will be a short post to let all five of my regular readers know about these super convenient ink cartridge sample packs that are offered by Diamine. Fountain pen junkies are familiar with Diamine ink; most people highly recommend Diamine, and their ink is available in a billion colors. My son and I have a few pens that accept standard international ink cartridges, and Diamine offers their ink in that type of cartridge.<br />
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I was looking to buy some sample sized bottles of Diamine ink, but luckily found this cartridge sample pack for sale on Amazon:</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZT17jxEI5w8/U2ahEGIBUvI/AAAAAAAABJc/QQcUuvR14SY/s1600/IMG_7339.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZT17jxEI5w8/U2ahEGIBUvI/AAAAAAAABJc/QQcUuvR14SY/s1600/IMG_7339.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
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I don't recall the name of this specific sample pack, but Amazon had a few different packs for sale. The box contains 18 ink cartridges in 10 different colors. There are two of each color except for Maroon and Dark Brown (only one of each in the box): Black; Blue/Black; Emerald; Claret; Turquoise; Royal Blue; Imperial Purple; Maroon; Monaco Red; and Dark Brown. For less than ten bucks, this is a great way to try out different inks if you are willing to live with unusual colors like Claret and Imperial Purple.</div>
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Although some of the cartridges arrived with a color-identifying sticker, most of them were void of any indicia other than a colored end cap. It would have been nice to have the stickers on all of them to eliminate the guesswork, but with appropriate medication I'll be able to live with the inconvenience.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl0PpTl8cfJ5sXcaa71J4efWAAp5rj6uR8SNHadbD12UzcO8P3G3IyMeabBsFTYp-iAfRpASDu3V3xz-SfddZyXqgcEVdFS9LoZtL_GktBIjfXuCLEmHQekt-wWZApWAFTGKPE5T0ieh4/s1600/IMG_7340.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl0PpTl8cfJ5sXcaa71J4efWAAp5rj6uR8SNHadbD12UzcO8P3G3IyMeabBsFTYp-iAfRpASDu3V3xz-SfddZyXqgcEVdFS9LoZtL_GktBIjfXuCLEmHQekt-wWZApWAFTGKPE5T0ieh4/s1600/IMG_7340.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
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My plan is to identify one or two favorite Diamine inks (perhaps after buying a different sample pack) before buying any bottles. At that point, I'll ditch the cartridges and fill my ink converters with bottled ink. At the rate I'm marching through this sample pack, though, I won't be purchasing a bottle for at least a year!</div>
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Anyway, if you own a fountain pen that takes standard international cartridges and you're looking to try different ink colors, then take a look at these Diamine sample packs. If you decide to acquire one, say a prayer to the color-identifying sticker gods before you hit the "Buy" button.</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738462910362093111.post-66542824292282980892014-04-27T08:30:00.000-07:002014-04-27T08:32:58.191-07:00Olight i3S FlashlightFlashlights. I like them, use one almost every day, and I've written about three of my flashlights before (<a href="http://dailyacquisition.blogspot.com/2013/06/my-newest-edc-light-eagletac-d25a-mini.html" target="_blank">link is here</a>). The EagleTac D25A Mini flashlight mentioned in that post is a nice torch, but for various reasons I don't carry it often. Reason 1: my front left jeans pocket is where I carry my flashlight and my phone, and there isn't enough room to comfortably carry the EagleTac (it's a fat AA light). Reason 2: the butt end of the EagleTac has a "sharp" edge that scratches my baby soft hand skin from time to time when I reach into my pocket. Reason 3: I find that my smaller AAA flashlights generate more than enough output for my everyday needs.<br />
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What does all of this mean? Why, a new AAA flashlight of course. I've had this little gem for a while, but have been too lazy/busy to write about it. I've carried and used it enough to say with utmost certainty: "the Olight i3S AAA flashlight is very nice."<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheyRFnsl4N-HhrV6g_yTF1jHKwRX1u4j4OM51VIHbVbuK1I-BgxVASuq4OCbNs09COqvpMuPzZot_TE4Cs1NyOQ3pq_0J9cFZt-Qns-krf8U45NSbPOr8pP_L0i66M3DpC4phJtqXwCg0/s1600/20131010_002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheyRFnsl4N-HhrV6g_yTF1jHKwRX1u4j4OM51VIHbVbuK1I-BgxVASuq4OCbNs09COqvpMuPzZot_TE4Cs1NyOQ3pq_0J9cFZt-Qns-krf8U45NSbPOr8pP_L0i66M3DpC4phJtqXwCg0/s1600/20131010_002.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
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The i3S is an update of Olight's i3 flashlight, which had some shortcomings. The i3S is available in several different colors, including the shiny blue version I acquired. Features and specs of interest include: Cree XP-G2 LED emitter; three output modes (0.5 lumen moonlight mode; 20 lumen low mode; and 80 lumen high mode); snap-on pocket clip; keychain. The Internet tells me that the i3S goes for about $25.00 (as of April 2014).<br />
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The i3S is very compact. It is about 70 mm long, and it's noticeably shorter than my Preon P1 (also a AAA flashlight).<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTdyfEK3hGITyc0rhadinVb_AWxBuAxTojbvm1mWx3-qWr_709bav5RfjklQItDs23N1stm7SLEvJ57TEW826xd20duKEx3qhShTClL6R4zkOTrPzofK87RZMHXv_7PiqQtUIq8SOAymE/s1600/20131010_004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTdyfEK3hGITyc0rhadinVb_AWxBuAxTojbvm1mWx3-qWr_709bav5RfjklQItDs23N1stm7SLEvJ57TEW826xd20duKEx3qhShTClL6R4zkOTrPzofK87RZMHXv_7PiqQtUIq8SOAymE/s1600/20131010_004.JPG" height="200" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">AAA Battery, i3S, Preon P1</td></tr>
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What's to like about the i3S? I personally like the reversible clip, which can be handy when I need to fashion a headlamp out of a baseball cap. The keychain is nice and sturdy, although I removed mine. The back end of the i3S is flat (good for tailstanding) and it has a smooth rounded edge that plays nice with my soft and supple skin.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgODus0qX8KIsCLckKa8LpVAUVxxx-v0goZIxrBHpalG2QGpPVwWw2Cj1jdkaUxTad2PX4GnCr7H8K-3dN_t6wE53tqXbbaHdYHy02Lnq1rd8IZjY67aCiZHE_idYylKuNy__KuLG4UWNc/s1600/20131010_003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgODus0qX8KIsCLckKa8LpVAUVxxx-v0goZIxrBHpalG2QGpPVwWw2Cj1jdkaUxTad2PX4GnCr7H8K-3dN_t6wE53tqXbbaHdYHy02Lnq1rd8IZjY67aCiZHE_idYylKuNy__KuLG4UWNc/s1600/20131010_003.JPG" height="200" width="150" /></a></div>
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I really like the moonlight mode of the i3S, which outputs a mere 0.5 lumens. Some may think that 0.5 lumens is useless, but I think it's a great option for times when you don't need a strong blast of light. My only gripe is that it takes three twists to reach the moonlight mode . . . the twisty UI of the i3S cycles through the following sequence: Low > High > Moonlight > Low > High > Moonlight > Strobe. I understand why the sequence begins with Low, but I kinda wish it started on Moonlight. Don't get me started on the ridiculous Strobe mode. Oh well, perfection is hard to find.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwV3Fm3igFNXQ3BQOZWRrtkYuL79mh3BnLRjbhq5_CfJOflRTzLSpl8cbGmUDKQOaE2hyphenhyphenoRwQqYrh9E2oHoa-Dxar3auv-7aiEnoFIgr_PepntmQc9AtOXZH3MAi_uKUdD3OuJGMleScA/s1600/20131010_001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwV3Fm3igFNXQ3BQOZWRrtkYuL79mh3BnLRjbhq5_CfJOflRTzLSpl8cbGmUDKQOaE2hyphenhyphenoRwQqYrh9E2oHoa-Dxar3auv-7aiEnoFIgr_PepntmQc9AtOXZH3MAi_uKUdD3OuJGMleScA/s1600/20131010_001.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Small Things Come In Small Packages</td></tr>
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One final note. Olight packages the i3S in a cool plastic box that includes a AAA battery. This is a nice touch, although simpler packaging might result in a lower price point. Whatever, for $25.00, the i3S is a great buy. Overall, I'm impressed and very satisfied with the i3S.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738462910362093111.post-15300593316926565792014-03-31T09:30:00.000-07:002014-03-31T09:30:42.171-07:00Finished Tattoo & ArtworkThis is a follow up to a post I made about <a href="http://dailyacquisition.blogspot.com/2013/09/a-tattoo-tribute.html" target="_blank">my new tattoo</a>. The tattoo has been done for a while now, and I'm really happy with it. The color is awesome, the design is exactly what I wanted, and all the elements flow together. I just wish that I could get a decent picture of it. For now, the best I could do is this selfie:<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h7qmPgPkmbs/Uyo4ln4VtdI/AAAAAAAABIA/5El_VSsi1NQ/s1600/IMG_7311.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h7qmPgPkmbs/Uyo4ln4VtdI/AAAAAAAABIA/5El_VSsi1NQ/s1600/IMG_7311.JPG" height="320" width="241" /></a></div>
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I like this tattoo. The design and rendering of the electric eraser and the orange slice are top notch, and the amount of detail is impressive. I am trying to schedule a touch-up appointment with the artist (Craig Driscoll) so that he can smooth in the color of the translucent green french curves. Other than that, I wouldn't change a thing.</div>
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As is customary, the artist gave me his original working sketch as a souvenir. I love the artwork, so I asked him to create a color rendering for me. Using the sketch as a guide, Craig created an awesome original piece for me, along with several archival quality prints for my sisters. The original drawing is just as impressive as the tattooed version.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHcDdj3zlvFsHjnBe_eLD83B3DiLFI9TgbGRmsjXRShIqC2ZioAl3p6_kZ-3wRXbZC2FpwIb0BqZKl5BwCfC6KVHEU6-2yVYWHUwpQpUZJbA_jqgRxo7wKO8NqlaLeep4q9rL57dHDL4c/s1600/20131002_001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHcDdj3zlvFsHjnBe_eLD83B3DiLFI9TgbGRmsjXRShIqC2ZioAl3p6_kZ-3wRXbZC2FpwIb0BqZKl5BwCfC6KVHEU6-2yVYWHUwpQpUZJbA_jqgRxo7wKO8NqlaLeep4q9rL57dHDL4c/s1600/20131002_001.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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I framed the original artwork and it now hangs in my office. I am super stoked on the work that Craig did for me. I'm sure that Dad would have liked it, too. </div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738462910362093111.post-1466765235513146852014-03-18T17:12:00.001-07:002014-03-18T17:12:21.759-07:00Pilot Hi-Tec-C Maica: Bling-Bling Pen!I recently placed an order with one of my favorite online vendors, and needed to buy a little something extra to get free shipping. A few minutes and US$2.50 later, this gem of a pen was added to my order: Pilot Hi-Tec-C Maica (Blue-Black color).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSmKH6ZAiORe63WQDtdDdlaOojbL72SwqRfc3TzL49nOGWsYXilWykzCD0WLkHl8EXhevoJmoVRHv7Gk93iLceLRULm2j6iM20a2fDLW27Y9Ogl1bCzwA5sBolMx6pwQYOyh2NWb-NWr8/s1600/IMG_7215.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSmKH6ZAiORe63WQDtdDdlaOojbL72SwqRfc3TzL49nOGWsYXilWykzCD0WLkHl8EXhevoJmoVRHv7Gk93iLceLRULm2j6iM20a2fDLW27Y9Ogl1bCzwA5sBolMx6pwQYOyh2NWb-NWr8/s1600/IMG_7215.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
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Backstory . . . I'm a big fan of the Hi-Tec-C pens. I was really liking my <a href="http://dailyacquisition.blogspot.com/2012/12/pilot-hi-tec-c-coleto-3-color-pen.html" target="_blank">Hi-Tec-C Coleto</a> pen until I discovered that the refills don't behave nicely if they don't get regular use (I assume that the tips dry out and get clogged). I only have one traditional Hi-Tec-C pen, but its 0.3 mm tip is too fine and scratchy for me. So, when I saw this Hi-Tec-C variant for sale, my goal was to buy a 0.4 mm version to replace the 0.3 mm pen. The excitement of buying a new pen must have been too much to handle, and I suffered a major shopping cart failure.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL1wfyvkRQafp5hEgDXdU0njXL7vIkQhn0_kJWmIWSkvXvf7vEySEaUY-rTo6htyLkPvt65sO3BvlNWhVhqAGOoYwtSS-0XrglKAiwlyy-Bp_iRF_R_nP93Oq1JYrxCXxgogyzkAwGLV4/s1600/IMG_7218.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL1wfyvkRQafp5hEgDXdU0njXL7vIkQhn0_kJWmIWSkvXvf7vEySEaUY-rTo6htyLkPvt65sO3BvlNWhVhqAGOoYwtSS-0XrglKAiwlyy-Bp_iRF_R_nP93Oq1JYrxCXxgogyzkAwGLV4/s1600/IMG_7218.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
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I accidentally ordered a 0.3 mm version of the Maica pen. Of course, it writes just like my other 0.3 mm Hi-Tec-C, which means I don't like it. As luck would have it, my daughter loves this bejeweled Hi-Tec-C, and she doesn't mind the needle tip. So I gifted the pen to her.<br />
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The Maica really is a pretty pen. It has aristocratic script on the body, a shiny colored body that matches the ink color, and a clear cap. Just look at the faceted gem-like flair that resides at the top of the cap:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbs9Vc8-eX9FjH5ptZLPxznqO7eROAAJby7L9atVzbel7kdnuSeZaJKtMGFMtTY3Cybfn4FdyNTHYefMSr0lXtuepG6eOdGjedIjwvX10wzr8uc1doOaGONR72ZnqN7eQfiNPVVarkyX0/s1600/IMG_7216.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbs9Vc8-eX9FjH5ptZLPxznqO7eROAAJby7L9atVzbel7kdnuSeZaJKtMGFMtTY3Cybfn4FdyNTHYefMSr0lXtuepG6eOdGjedIjwvX10wzr8uc1doOaGONR72ZnqN7eQfiNPVVarkyX0/s1600/IMG_7216.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
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OK, I can see why some uber-masculine writers may feel threatened and challenged by this sparkly writing instrument. Understood. That said, the pen IS rather handsome and it has an elegant design to it. The grip section is a little thicker than the standard Hi-Tec-C, which creates a better fit for large manly hands. The grip section also featrues some plastic knurling, which sets it apart from the standard Hi-Tec-C grip.<br />
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By the way, the pen uses standard Hi-Tec-C refills, which means there are a million colors and tip sizes from which to choose. The next time I place an order, I'll be careful to select a 0.4 mm or 0.5 mm version, with extra bling if available.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738462910362093111.post-59311569983945521322014-02-11T16:19:00.002-08:002014-02-11T16:19:47.378-08:00Inexpensive Acquisition: Gear Tie ThingyThis is just a quick blurb about something stupidly simple, but awesomely useful: Nite Ize Gear Ties. These gear tie thingies are glorified twisties; you know, those annoying wire ties that keep loaves of bread from escaping their bags. The Nite Ize product is more durable, rugged, strong, and colorful . . . but it's still basically a bendy wire. OK, it's a thick bendy wire wrapped in a pretty rubber sheath.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFpwDEDpCrXSExwa29nl62TzbwulJMANmsfFa7PiavxWqQBYLz8ms4fhTWn2UzFl6nLaDqUD2QwcEmtF3KRv-JMvqfCwD-pv6Uov-wWzo6hNS29UcLYwmORuh9DENcLkULcwk80nFjeIQ/s1600/IMG_7256.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFpwDEDpCrXSExwa29nl62TzbwulJMANmsfFa7PiavxWqQBYLz8ms4fhTWn2UzFl6nLaDqUD2QwcEmtF3KRv-JMvqfCwD-pv6Uov-wWzo6hNS29UcLYwmORuh9DENcLkULcwk80nFjeIQ/s1600/IMG_7256.JPG" height="200" width="150" /></a></div>
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These gear ties come in various lengths ranging from 3 to 64 inches. I have a handful of the 3-inch size and a couple of the 6-inch size. I use them for my charging cords, speaker wires, LAN cables, and headphones. You'd be surprised at how useful they are. Really.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoyiUagjNuSTTfiq7qUtfnaRzh72_6zmudgKuvvAU9j3VHKc4iFQ-5tiwq59jYhuT_HGJ_WBC8cIKH_Codalg19gnQIy2VCHECYw2CZxx9Ws9C2pvX-q-yJ8A7ly_Xh3wIdNslr-1y1mI/s1600/IMG_7257.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoyiUagjNuSTTfiq7qUtfnaRzh72_6zmudgKuvvAU9j3VHKc4iFQ-5tiwq59jYhuT_HGJ_WBC8cIKH_Codalg19gnQIy2VCHECYw2CZxx9Ws9C2pvX-q-yJ8A7ly_Xh3wIdNslr-1y1mI/s1600/IMG_7257.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
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Not much more to say about these gear ties. The instructions are straightforward and very easy to understand: "bend it around something". You owe it to yourself to check these out. All the cool kids have them now.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738462910362093111.post-67593497385605946952014-02-02T16:15:00.000-08:002014-02-02T16:15:46.692-08:00Sennheiser PX 100-II Portable HeadphonesI like headphones (good ones) because they are a relatively inexpensive way to experience high quality audio playback. I prefer the sound of open headphones, but there are times when I am forced to use closed headphones (e.g., late at night to avoid bothering others or when it's necessary to block environmental noise). I used to own a great set of open headphones by Grado, but I replaced them with a set of closed headphones by Sony.<br />
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I recently had an epiphany and determined that I must acquire another set of open headphones for casual use around the house. Simply put, there are times when it's extremely important to hear things in the surrounding environment when listening to personal music (pizza delivery, hard boiled egg timer, angry bear charging from behind, etc.). I didn't want another set of Grados, and I really wanted a portable design having a short cord and a carrying case if possible. So I hit the Internet, did some research, and decided to get a set of Sennheiser PX 100-II portable headphones.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Moew4UZZFsc/Ur3Sdi8rRiI/AAAAAAAABF4/o2zu8HBxjzo/s1600/IMG_6429.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Moew4UZZFsc/Ur3Sdi8rRiI/AAAAAAAABF4/o2zu8HBxjzo/s200/IMG_6429.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sennheiser PX 100-II</td></tr>
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These headphones are great for what they are: inexpensive, lightweight, small, and portable cans that are primarily designed for use with laptops, tablets, and digital media players. I didn't buy the "i" version, which includes a microphone control on the cord for use with iPhones.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U9ExVAtdWug/Ur3S1HAIjiI/AAAAAAAABGA/b8zSe_V781Q/s1600/IMG_6430.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U9ExVAtdWug/Ur3S1HAIjiI/AAAAAAAABGA/b8zSe_V781Q/s200/IMG_6430.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Open Back Design</td></tr>
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The open back design means that sound leaks in both directions. If you play music at eardrum shattering levels, then you will annoy people sitting near you. Conversely, outside noise can and will be heard through the earpads. Speaking of which, the earpads are rather small because they are designed to sit on your ears (not around them). Lack of sound isolation doesn't bother me because I only use these headphones in certain situations where isolation is unimportant.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEtKA0RaT2tmRfmvIWIjESuB1Q8l4wYh87DT8Cr-PywdwF3RazEyz9SrxoXUQ_y4ms1L0sv_ruGIqspaQt0eglr4x_Chpb_wrJe4r8Ei4MM3uj4ujCzjlEkPbc5zf9PmgGuDSYEID6YQ0/s1600/IMG_6428.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEtKA0RaT2tmRfmvIWIjESuB1Q8l4wYh87DT8Cr-PywdwF3RazEyz9SrxoXUQ_y4ms1L0sv_ruGIqspaQt0eglr4x_Chpb_wrJe4r8Ei4MM3uj4ujCzjlEkPbc5zf9PmgGuDSYEID6YQ0/s200/IMG_6428.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Easy to Fold</td></tr>
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I like how the headphones can be folded into a neat and compact configuration. The earpads twist inward, and the two arms fold upward and lock together as shown above. This makes them easy to carry in a backpack or messenger bag.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGRcNWXf0sdkHfShUIYCC40wgSxc8rGCF8tB5SkZ1sgv7IS-qoQOckygr5uVFtZkBrLjlSEDh5qa9dSq5NxzR0Z7LbOEIfNSRGjC8xlqQk-lrjXhQA2vYweU98grIb4gGoheVDEf_aMYk/s1600/IMG_6427.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGRcNWXf0sdkHfShUIYCC40wgSxc8rGCF8tB5SkZ1sgv7IS-qoQOckygr5uVFtZkBrLjlSEDh5qa9dSq5NxzR0Z7LbOEIfNSRGjC8xlqQk-lrjXhQA2vYweU98grIb4gGoheVDEf_aMYk/s200/IMG_6427.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Easy to Store</td></tr>
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The PX 100-II headphones come with a soft carrying pouch. It's a nice touch, but the pouch provides absolutely no structural protection. It would have been great to have a hard shell case in addition to (or instead of) the drawstring bag.<br />
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How do they sound? In my opinion, they provide an awesome audio bang for the buck. They cannot compete against the megabuck offerings from Sennheiser, Grado, Beyerdynamic, Audeze, and others, but they are at the head of the class in their niche category (open, portable, inexpensive). If anyone is interested in more detailed reviews, browse over to <a href="http://www.head-fi.org/" target="_blank">Head-Fi</a>. I'm sure that you'll find many pages of comments, reviews, and user critiques there.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738462910362093111.post-69182555641234438922014-01-20T11:30:00.000-08:002014-01-20T11:30:29.737-08:00Leuchtturm1917 Pocket Notebook (Revisited)This is just a quick follow up to my previous post about the <a href="http://dailyacquisition.blogspot.com/2013/03/leuchtturm1917-pocket-notebook.html" target="_blank">Leuchtturm1917 Pocket Notebook</a>. After writing that post, I purchased and used other "good" fountain pen friendly paper, including a Rhodia Webnotebook. I'm no paper expert, but I've found that the Leuchtturm1917 paper works better for me than Rhodia and Clairefontaine paper. Don't get me wrong, Rhodia and Clairefontaine paper products are great, and I like using them. However . . . Rhodia and Clairefontaine products are expensive, and the paper used in those products can be too smooth and impenetrable for some of my fountain pens. As a result, some pens skip when writing on Rhodia/Clairefontaine paper. In addition, ink takes forever to dry on those papers.<br />
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In contrast, the paper found in Leuchtturm1917 notebooks seems to hit a sweet spot such that the paper is absorptive enough to prevent skipping, while also being smooth enough to accommodate pleasant fountain pen writing. OK, I admit that these characteristics may also result in slightly more ink spread, feathering, and show-through than other premium paper. That said, the combination of all those minor downsides pales in comparison to the occasional skipping that I experience with the competing paper. Seriously, I can't stand it when my flowing words of written wisdom get abruptly interrupted by Mr. Rhodia saying "let me stop you right HERE so that you can appreciate my glass-like surface, which limits ink distribution to within a submicron range."<br />
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Some folks may retort with comments such as "you're doing it wrong" or "you need to send your pens to a nibmeister and have them all tuned up" or "have you tried using ink X" or "you suck and I hate you" or "I'll bet you live in a dry climate, and that you have hard water, and that you don't eat enough fresh fruit" - fair enough. I suppose I'm just glad that the Leuchtturm1917 paper allows me to write with all of my fountain pens in a consistent and expected manner. Just saying.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738462910362093111.post-25411909102514483392014-01-08T10:52:00.000-08:002014-01-08T10:52:29.021-08:00Qi ChargerI picked up a Motorola Droid Mini phone a while ago. After tinkering with it for a short time, I discovered that it has native support for wireless charging (compliant with the <a href="http://www.wirelesspowerconsortium.com/" target="_blank">Qi inductive charging standard</a>). For the geekspeak challenged, "inductive charging" = "charging without plugging your phone in" (some people call it "wireless" charging, but that's not technically true because the Qi charging pad must be connected to a power source using wires, a cable, a cord, coat hangers, twisted tin foil, or the like). For the pronunciationally challenged, "Qi" = "Chee" (as in Kim Chee or Cheetos).<br />
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There are many Qi chargers available on the market now. I acquired the Koolpad charger shown here:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB36j5gzhM-dfNCfBgKCZ0SHD9q9qmGm6t-c-eq0SKT6vDf8MpbTtW_BC-1M-zzX28TwFYHrgmLHShXZoA7hEoD_YLL1dx3A9aO2p9Tebw3f3yl-MikwChW5WB4OKaPKQPObP3GfaBRlo/s1600/20130930_143626082.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB36j5gzhM-dfNCfBgKCZ0SHD9q9qmGm6t-c-eq0SKT6vDf8MpbTtW_BC-1M-zzX28TwFYHrgmLHShXZoA7hEoD_YLL1dx3A9aO2p9Tebw3f3yl-MikwChW5WB4OKaPKQPObP3GfaBRlo/s320/20130930_143626082.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
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The charging pad came with a micro USB cable (no power adapter is provided). The USB cable allows the charging pad to be connected to any powered USB port or to a wall adapter that has a USB port. I simply used my Motorola wall adapter to connect the charging pad. I did not have to modify my Droid Mini at all (no additional hardware, no app downloaded, no settings tweaked).<br />
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The Qi charger works like a charm, and it was one of my best acquisitions of 2013. I keep it plugged in at the office, where I spend most of my time during the week. I simply place my phone on the pad whenever the battery drops below about 50% to top it off while I work. The charging pad automatically recognizes the phone (or vice versa?) whether or not the phone is on. The magic begins with a beep emitted from the pad and a confirmation generated by the phone. The green indicator light (shown in the picture) changes to blue when the phone is charging, and reverts back to green when the battery reaches 100%.<br />
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Qi charging takes a little longer than usual, but that doesn't bother me at all because I usually have several hours of desk time during each workday. I don't mind charging at a leisurely pace. If I need to charge my phone faster, I simply remove the charging pad from the USB cable and replace the pad with my phone. Easy peasy.<br />
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I highly recommend a Qi charger for anyone who is lucky enough to have a phone that already has a Qi power receiver built into it (I have no opinion regarding phones that require modification or retrofitting). In fact, by the time I unleash this post, I'll probably have a Qi charger at home, too.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738462910362093111.post-8773990815741277222013-12-26T09:36:00.001-08:002013-12-26T09:36:44.980-08:00Pilot Decimo Fountain Pen: Capless WonderI usually begin a post with a catchy phrase like: "I recently acquired _____________, and it's awesome." I can't do that here because my Pilot Decimo fountain pen came into my possession more than six months ago. Unfortunately, it will be tough to write about "first impressions" because my memory sucks and I've been using the pen almost daily since I got it. On the plus side, I'll be able to reflect on six months of consistent use.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpgImgiw_4qFV1WbOuEd-ST1BkvUKR74_KjOnuVOItdgyIDbSZTlsNrlcVlFVC4SYWMpkzGUm7sSnrpuZ3zJpKKtc3zOA439BMdKS1qYR1AB2lkC5thD4gMi5Tp1qz7Pei-b9-ghNhcaU/s1600/IMG_6286.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpgImgiw_4qFV1WbOuEd-ST1BkvUKR74_KjOnuVOItdgyIDbSZTlsNrlcVlFVC4SYWMpkzGUm7sSnrpuZ3zJpKKtc3zOA439BMdKS1qYR1AB2lkC5thD4gMi5Tp1qz7Pei-b9-ghNhcaU/s200/IMG_6286.jpg" width="150" /></a>The Decimo is one of Pilot's capless fountain pens. For those wondering . . . "capless" = "retractable" in this context. The capless mechanism is identical to that used in the well-known Vanishing Point fountain pen by Pilot. I acquired a dark blue version with silver (rhodium) trim; ordered from an online vendor based in Japan. I've seen these offered on the Internet within the range of US$120 to US$260, and I can't explain the price variation. I suspect that the lower prices may reflect a product with a lower quality nib component, that the higher prices may reflect a limited edition version, or both.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUXAWUSr4OXSsfWajzeG8Hr9vjRCGDI8CB2x4nmm5K0zKT9LkM4unc-h9MKKLtPSolVAuQPiyYAhcuf1tiCF2HY_Lq9TGK5XuwvhSbjy_t5uy8mzMoE1JPAlBnZUwA-ePkAjy7qDe-zLc/s1600/IMG_6284.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUXAWUSr4OXSsfWajzeG8Hr9vjRCGDI8CB2x4nmm5K0zKT9LkM4unc-h9MKKLtPSolVAuQPiyYAhcuf1tiCF2HY_Lq9TGK5XuwvhSbjy_t5uy8mzMoE1JPAlBnZUwA-ePkAjy7qDe-zLc/s200/IMG_6284.jpg" width="150" /></a>I'm glad that I ordered the dark blue version. The blue is deep and slightly shimmery, without looking cheesy or tacky. The silver trim is brightly plated, and it matches the plating of the nib. If I'm being honest, I think a satin silver or nickel trim would look better with the blue body, but then the exterior trim wouldn't match the nib. The fit and finish of this pen is very good, and I have no complaints in that regard.<br />
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I chose the Decimo over its famous cousin (the Vanishing Point) because the Decimo is a little more compact in size and I thought it would be a better fit my child-like hand. I don't own a Vanishing Point and, therefore, can't do a hand-by-hand comparison, but my online research (which is always 100% accurate because everything found on the Internet is the truth) indicates that the Decimo is, in fact, less bulky and thinner in the grip area.<br />
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Speaking of the grip area, the pocket clip is attached to the nib end of the pen so that the nib doesn't leak during pocket carry (unless the carrier likes to walk on his/her hands, is a trapeze performer, or is an astronaut). Some users complain that the clip interferes with their fingers, but the clip doesn't bother me at all. In fact, I like how the clip also serves to align the pen in the hand such that the nib is properly oriented for writing.<br />
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The retractable nib mechanism is an engineering marvel. OK, it's not up to par with the Hoover Dam, but it's still pretty slick. The Decimo works just like a typical clicky style ballpoint pen: click once to extend the nib; click again to retract it. This is great for use at work, where I often jot down quick notes and annotate documents. In that typical workplace scenario, it's a hassle to frequently uncap and recap a traditional fountain pen to prevent it from drying out.<br />
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The following picture shows the business end of the Decimo with the nib retracted. The picture doesn't reveal the trap door thingy that covers and seals the nib inside the body of the pen. The door really works well . . . the nib has never dried out on me (although I haven't let the pen sit unused for more than a week).<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtIjUhYTfKluMhJUjebJjnceouEQ8Tx0WyuLPAqafQWfoGJ_E1ohdshKqhIdApDl2pdHoEiUHHdinoT6eVs6s1pcEqApBJZy9NtxmbdmURuR-mnvoxc9i6YyKI5MSF3ieOtgGYi7FnfaM/s1600/IMG_6285.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtIjUhYTfKluMhJUjebJjnceouEQ8Tx0WyuLPAqafQWfoGJ_E1ohdshKqhIdApDl2pdHoEiUHHdinoT6eVs6s1pcEqApBJZy9NtxmbdmURuR-mnvoxc9i6YyKI5MSF3ieOtgGYi7FnfaM/s200/IMG_6285.jpg" width="183" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In</td></tr>
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A click of the button causes the nib unit to advance, which causes the door to open, which in turn allows the nib to extend into its locked position. Simple.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYWBr30EnjUuKTVbrkAneadaaH1uO_SbC9E8YufqeCL-ZVTsNWc37z33wXnHTvyh8w-0zoeHAcE77RjzubEYfPUitfr-o1NTPLgvzczchhBsTeiAjBWdfWG6mIP3DwjQpa0vDbPtSjKiM/s1600/IMG_6287.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="157" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYWBr30EnjUuKTVbrkAneadaaH1uO_SbC9E8YufqeCL-ZVTsNWc37z33wXnHTvyh8w-0zoeHAcE77RjzubEYfPUitfr-o1NTPLgvzczchhBsTeiAjBWdfWG6mIP3DwjQpa0vDbPtSjKiM/s200/IMG_6287.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Out</td></tr>
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After doing extensive research, I decided to get a fine nib. My choice was influenced by the fact that I do most of my office work on standard copy paper and cheap notepads, both of which exhibit a fair amount of feathering and ink spreading. I also read that there is a considerable increase in nib size when stepping from fine to medium nib units. In hindsight, I'm glad that I got a fine nib. It works great for my routine office work.<br />
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Speaking of the nib . . . the nib units of Pilot's capless pens (including the Decimo and the Vanishing Point) are interchangeable, and are offered by several vendors. I might obtain a medium nib unit if $70.00 magically appears in my wallet some day. The nib unit includes the nib, the feed, and a tube that accommodates Pilot ink cartridges (which only fit Pilot fountain pens) and certain Pilot ink converters (Pilot's CON-70 converter does not fit). The pen also comes with a metal sleeve for use with ink cartridges. The sleeve protects the cartridge and provides support for the actuation mechanism.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwkCK5V80mDwdxbiwhOQf4Gpjq4uVmVKh99FM_sUgN7x5jBZ8Tj02tyfhren1FYsStYnyyyWicbVQhfISCyjdmYhIIq-xV2VCq-xGsn946U5ay3WtsNiOUBHO5MWbcPfd0We8faxabUaY/s1600/IMG_6288.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwkCK5V80mDwdxbiwhOQf4Gpjq4uVmVKh99FM_sUgN7x5jBZ8Tj02tyfhren1FYsStYnyyyWicbVQhfISCyjdmYhIIq-xV2VCq-xGsn946U5ay3WtsNiOUBHO5MWbcPfd0We8faxabUaY/s200/IMG_6288.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nib Unit + Ink Cartridge Sleeve</td></tr>
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I've used the Decimo with Pilot's CON-20 squeeze converter, Pilot's CON-50 piston converter, a Pilot ink cartridge, and a Pilot ink cartridge refilled with different ink. The converters work fine, but I found myself refilling them too often. Pilot's cartridges hold a little more ink, and it's easy to refill them with my own ink (using an ink syringe).<br />
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After more than six months of almost daily use, I can honestly say that I love this pen. The nib is rhodium plated 18 karat gold, and it has a little bit of give. I can't say whether or not it is "soft" per se, because I've never written with a truly soft nib. I do like the feel and smoothness of the nib, and the unusual shape/size of the nib has little to no impact on the writing experience. The performance of the nib is right up there with my other "good" fountain pens.<br />
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Moreover, the size and weight of the pen is nearly perfect for me, and the retracting mechanism works as expected and without any problems. I don't have any legitimate complaints about this pen, other than the high price. If it were less expensive, I'd already have another one for my home office.<br />
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Here are some writing samples that I created soon after I received the Decimo:<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSd4G4oDKoEBNawPJoWPQwTm0gkC0K9LGFFc2eVlJyRRro5tS9iTZF3nycEamX-5qfU-XmlpHzQeG586Z8s4lz1pLd6GXJBM5abyLJZAf5HmxOWrKLTQyQvgT2yNIT3utRau54BbV-xL8/s1600/20130528_Pilot_Decimo_Sample.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSd4G4oDKoEBNawPJoWPQwTm0gkC0K9LGFFc2eVlJyRRro5tS9iTZF3nycEamX-5qfU-XmlpHzQeG586Z8s4lz1pLd6GXJBM5abyLJZAf5HmxOWrKLTQyQvgT2yNIT3utRau54BbV-xL8/s200/20130528_Pilot_Decimo_Sample.jpg" width="160" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sample 1</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGEkm2xs28HsCnGwQKF9nw7W2k1zckudhccErA1Jn-9is9WgTfqHezc9ueMPWgKg-W4EV3DNYY_eqKFbHUiX8tu1AlXX-gUrWVt5D0JiC_psWW_9X6-Tx1WetOXqgtTsWOAldJn3FyXUY/s1600/20130528_Pilot_Decimo_Sample3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="83" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGEkm2xs28HsCnGwQKF9nw7W2k1zckudhccErA1Jn-9is9WgTfqHezc9ueMPWgKg-W4EV3DNYY_eqKFbHUiX8tu1AlXX-gUrWVt5D0JiC_psWW_9X6-Tx1WetOXqgtTsWOAldJn3FyXUY/s200/20130528_Pilot_Decimo_Sample3.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sample 2</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfNx1kR5VemDXIRystO30TV9fYhmD9NIpoCSYjL2njOp_0unvupN1G4Xkz4j36akTedy7EQwtlSSe6zul_Okbr4w80hnXQ-A25uyaeCUw7zo0XOFillSGKEamnb4necFNauvNSkx3asw8/s1600/20130528_Pilot_DecimoSample2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="83" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfNx1kR5VemDXIRystO30TV9fYhmD9NIpoCSYjL2njOp_0unvupN1G4Xkz4j36akTedy7EQwtlSSe6zul_Okbr4w80hnXQ-A25uyaeCUw7zo0XOFillSGKEamnb4necFNauvNSkx3asw8/s200/20130528_Pilot_DecimoSample2.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sample 3</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
And here is a nice parting shot of the pen.<div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fc5rdk52kvg/UrxnAXkZkuI/AAAAAAAABFY/On1CMrbO_70/s1600/IMG_6289.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fc5rdk52kvg/UrxnAXkZkuI/AAAAAAAABFY/On1CMrbO_70/s200/IMG_6289.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
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<br />This will probably be the last post of 2013. Happy New Year!</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738462910362093111.post-46024782210447943842013-12-16T19:28:00.004-08:002013-12-16T19:28:57.422-08:00Christmas Lights: Second Place = Loser!I was the first one on my block to put up lights this season . . . they went up the weekend BEFORE Thanksgiving. I actually planned to merely lay out the new lights and do some pre-wiring, but the project gained momentum and I went ahead and set up everything. As I mentioned <a href="http://dailyacquisition.blogspot.com/2013/01/christmas-lights-raising-bar-in-2013.html" target="_blank">here</a>, I wanted to step things up and try to catch up to my neighbor, who is the clear leader on the "Best Lights on the Block" list.<br />
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I admit that I was rather pleased with my lights after firing them up. The modern LED light strings and the sheer number of lights are quite impressive. In fact, I was the block leader for eight days. The next weekend, however, I was put to shame by my neighbor. I think he added a few items to his arsenal from 2012, and my light display is still deep in the minor leagues relative to his big league arrangement.<br />
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Oh well, this is only a friendly competition that we both hope will encourage other neighbors to light things up. I wasn't planning on adding anything else this year, although I had been considering how best to improve things for 2014. In fact, I actually went out and bought an extension ladder to measure the roof line and eaves for next year's light strings, and recorded all of the pertinent dimensions last weekend. While taking the measurements, I noticed that my neighbor was adding more stuff to his house. He obviously knows that I'm trying to catch up, and he's intentionally upping his game just to see me sweat! It's really tough to keep pace with the guy.<br />
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So, I'm writing this post because I terminated my delayed 2014 light deployment plan this morning. While drinking a tasty cup of Ethiopian coffee, I stumbled upon <a href="http://www.holiday-light-express.com/" target="_blank">this website</a> devoted to LED Christmas lights. The website isn't very polished, but it lists some items that I had been considering for next year, and the prices are decent. One thing led to another and my shopping cart was full before my coffee cup was empty.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwmY-uJyYpw7e7AnktVqxPn-CozJR48-Bv7bLHc-pRwPcgPk1q3L6ANPYFnunZlyk7qOyC7SHAQJ-Em9VddL7uxCd407F0BgyAKzVQp9So_ySK1SUDGP7vfz16-MWprN5XI7T8gKCzH2Y/s1600/20131216_001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="88" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwmY-uJyYpw7e7AnktVqxPn-CozJR48-Bv7bLHc-pRwPcgPk1q3L6ANPYFnunZlyk7qOyC7SHAQJ-Em9VddL7uxCd407F0BgyAKzVQp9So_ySK1SUDGP7vfz16-MWprN5XI7T8gKCzH2Y/s400/20131216_001.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Impulse Purchase</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Today's acquisition will be used to adorn the upper roof line of the house, and to replace some of the old dim lights that I've been using. In my opinion, lights on the upper deck really separate the serious players from the run of the mill amateurs. It's time to join the ranks of the ridiculous. I'll still be in second place by a huge margin, but Rome wasn't built in a day.<div>
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I know that pictures would be nice, but I'm not about to take pictures of my neighbor's house and post them. Moreover, my point and shoot camera sucks and doesn't like to take pictures at night. I'll try to take some pictures of my lights after the aforementioned products arrive and get installed.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738462910362093111.post-68324662012425194772013-12-14T13:54:00.000-08:002013-12-14T13:54:03.073-08:00Quick Update: Too Much Going On!I haven't set aside enough time to write more posts. I have a number of items teed up, but things are a little hectic with the holiday season and everything. I'm waist deep in a couple of "projects" that have kept me in the cycle of researching, wish-listing, over-analyzing, and rethinking. Once I get out of this rut, I'd like to blog about the projects. As a preview, I've been dealing with my <a href="http://dailyacquisition.blogspot.com/2013/01/christmas-lights-raising-bar-in-2013.html" target="_blank">2013 Christmas lights</a> and some audio/video gear. And some work getting done to the house. Let's not mention holiday shopping.<br />
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Stay tuned for details!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738462910362093111.post-38089240378815646542013-11-29T07:18:00.000-08:002013-11-29T07:18:02.999-08:005.1 Channel Music TitlesI absolutely love listening to my favorite music, preferably by way of decent audio reproduction equipment. Unfortunately, due to finances, the lack of space, and self-imposed restraint, I haven't had a decent playback system for many years (I was an early adopter of home theater gear and DVD playback, but I got rid of my home theater rig a long time ago and haven't replaced it yet). That said, I have some decent portable music players, some great headphones, and a very nice computer-based 2.1 channel setup at the office. But nothing worth listening to at home . . . yet.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jb1kpTGuS4c/UpiqwuvbmqI/AAAAAAAABCQ/9pakiam_oII/s1600/IMG_7124.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jb1kpTGuS4c/UpiqwuvbmqI/AAAAAAAABCQ/9pakiam_oII/s200/IMG_7124.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Awesome Home Theater System</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
My place is undergoing a minor remodel to add a "bonus" room for everyone to enjoy. In this context, "everyone" includes me, so I've planned accordingly. At first, I wanted the room to accommodate a pool table, some old school pinball games, a dart board, a hi-fi rig, a shuffleboard table, a shooting range, a trampoline, and a poker table. The reasonable voice in the household scaled my plan back somewhat, leaving me with a small "hangout" and home theater room. Oh well, I'll take it.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xMgD80Ml6Qk/UpirAEovamI/AAAAAAAABCY/VDqtd8By-s8/s1600/20131129_HT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="187" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xMgD80Ml6Qk/UpirAEovamI/AAAAAAAABCY/VDqtd8By-s8/s320/20131129_HT.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Awesome Media Room</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So, I'm currently looking at various home theater equipment to outfit a room that doesn't even exist yet. Moreover, a good friend of mine (who happens to be a true audiophile and a big fan of quadraphonic music) recently gave me a demonstration of his awesome quad system, and I was instantly hooked. We listened to some Pink Floyd and King Crimson in high resolution 5.1 channel DVD formats, and the surround sound experience was something to behold. Suffice it to say, a new acquisition disorder set in that day, and I've been collecting and wish-listing various multi-channel audio titles since that day. This disorder is particularly troubling because I don't even have a compatible playback system yet. I do have a Blu-Ray disc player, but it's merely hooked up to my TV speakers. Unimpressive non-surround sound to say the least.<br />
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Here's the problem: it's not easy or fiscally painless to acquire 5.1 channel music titles. There are a number of reasons for a lack of new and used inventory. First and foremost, there is little demand for surround sound audio because most people listen to MP3 files on the go these days. Does anyone actually sit down and listen to music anymore? Second, rapidly evolving and competing surround sound and high resolution audio formats have made it difficult for content providers to sustain sales. For example, 5.1 channel music can be delivered on a standard DVD, on a DVD-Audio disc (which may be incompatible with some DVD players), on a SACD, on a Blu-Ray disc, etc. At present, Blu-Ray audio is the newest vehicle for delivery of high resolution multichannel audio. Unfortunately, this means that it's becoming increasingly difficult to score out-of-print titles that are only available in older "obsolete" formats.<br />
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What does one do about this? One gets addicted to hunting down multichannel audio discs. Thankfully, there are some old SACD titles that can be had on the cheap due to high inventory and little demand. There are a handful of newer Blu-Ray titles on the market, but they can be rather expensive if the disc that you seek is only available in a special anniversary deluxe collectors ridiculously priced edition.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXkvQAa1cy3qzBKC4c7oZUg_twbJ2Gn8OzFFqEHEc9IfiCZcveKCiiYg-QoR3vWb79MtBVO1Zjv_4_pxsLCdBwn_1mhLf45KYpTfT_NANNDOxqi-JPX_Stvjp_fMB7w0lxklp5v4NIAwk/s1600/IMG_7102.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXkvQAa1cy3qzBKC4c7oZUg_twbJ2Gn8OzFFqEHEc9IfiCZcveKCiiYg-QoR3vWb79MtBVO1Zjv_4_pxsLCdBwn_1mhLf45KYpTfT_NANNDOxqi-JPX_Stvjp_fMB7w0lxklp5v4NIAwk/s200/IMG_7102.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nothing To Hear Here</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This post is not intended to be a "look at my collection" ego booster, and I know that my inventory is small compared to serious collectors. I'm not really collecting for the sake of ownership or investment; I'm simply trying to find my personal favorites before they go completely extinct so that I can enjoy them on my nonexistent home theater system in my nonexistent media room.<br />
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Speaking of ridiculously priced exclusive collectors editions, my stack of items includes the "Immersion" box set of Pink Floyd's "The Dark Side of the Moon", which includes a Blu-Ray disc that is chock full of audio goodness. The Blu-Ray disc includes a high resolution 5.1 audio version of the album - that version is currently ranked as the best surround sound title on the <a href="http://www.quadraphonicquad.com/forums/forum.php" target="_blank">QuadraphonicQuad</a> site. For this reason, I'll probably listen to Dark Side first. I regret that the picture does not include anything from Tool, Radiohead, Isis, Explosions in the Sky, or The Beastie Boys, but I'm pretty sure that 5.1 audio titles from those bands are not commercially available. No such luck.<br />
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Perhaps I'll post some comments about my listening experiences if and when I am able to actually play the discs. Until then, I'll continue in my attempt to acquire more titles (if anyone want's to unload their DVD-Audio version of Deadwing by Porcupine Tree, just let me know).Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738462910362093111.post-4740415356110469702013-11-11T17:45:00.002-08:002013-11-11T17:45:16.482-08:00The Wide World Of Shaving StuffOne thing that I like about my traditional wet shaving routine is that the shaving products (shave soap, shaving cream, aftershave splash) don't need to be replenished for a very long time and, when necessary to do so, they are relatively inexpensive to acquire. Moreover, double edge razor blades are ridiculously cheap in comparison to something like the Gillette Fusion cartridges, which cost around $3.00 apiece.<br />
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I had to restock some basic shaving supplies recently, and got what I believe are three "best in class" products. Interestingly, the products originate from all over the globe: England (Truefitt & Hill shaving cream); Japan (Feather razor blades); and Italy (Proraso aftershave splash).<br />
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The shaving cream is the "1805" version from Truefitt & Hill, named after the year the company was founded in London. Truefitt & Hill products are all top quality, and this shaving cream is very good - slick and thick lather, nice smell, rinses clean and easily.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw641VJNZyaHiyb9y_osLKzTGBY66HseTs_Zvv0InPHzUdDCq9w8QTfrE7wyRAL2wCCl1WyOLNTRMKX1QisLT_l6PsIZcNF3k6SIWF_gxS-JpqChXi3kHgpGpmSpuU_Ywc2Y2jGbyLBf0/s1600/IMG_7031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw641VJNZyaHiyb9y_osLKzTGBY66HseTs_Zvv0InPHzUdDCq9w8QTfrE7wyRAL2wCCl1WyOLNTRMKX1QisLT_l6PsIZcNF3k6SIWF_gxS-JpqChXi3kHgpGpmSpuU_Ywc2Y2jGbyLBf0/s200/IMG_7031.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>
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Moving further down into Europe we come to Italy, where one can find Ferrari automobiles, leaning towers, and Proraso. This Italian brand makes a number of shaving products, including this awesome mentholated alcohol-laden splash. The scent isn't overpowering, which is one reason that I like it so much.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2ZIBIOxuYOI/UoGDrAZSwBI/AAAAAAAABBc/27cMrVLTC_U/s1600/IMG_7030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2ZIBIOxuYOI/UoGDrAZSwBI/AAAAAAAABBc/27cMrVLTC_U/s200/IMG_7030.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>
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Traveling east into Asia, we arrive in Japan. Simply put, Feather double edge razor blades are the sharpest and bestest blades that you can find. They are a little pricey relative to other DE blades, but they are still much less expensive than modern multi-blade cartridges.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gcasie4lJQo/UoGEtyXFSbI/AAAAAAAABBk/DTdarO1nwvE/s1600/IMG_7036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gcasie4lJQo/UoGEtyXFSbI/AAAAAAAABBk/DTdarO1nwvE/s200/IMG_7036.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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As of the date of this post, a pack of ten blades (shown above) can be had for about $4.50. I usually change blades once a week, so the cost per shave is minimal. If you are willing to buy in bulk, the cost per blade becomes even more economical.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j3km_QFrT9Y/UoGFqzqMuyI/AAAAAAAABBs/OgABZl4IaA4/s1600/IMG_7033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j3km_QFrT9Y/UoGFqzqMuyI/AAAAAAAABBs/OgABZl4IaA4/s200/IMG_7033.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>
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So . . . there are twenty packs in that box, for a total of 200 super sharp blades. I'm all set for about four years now.</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
By the way, good shaving supplies are also produced in countries such as the United States, Portugal, Spain, Russia, Germany, Canada, Korea, etc. This stuff is available all over the world.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738462910362093111.post-91445530660640940672013-10-31T07:42:00.001-07:002013-10-31T07:42:21.454-07:00Drafting Pencils! Pentel P205, Pilot S10, and Staedtler 925-35My FPAD (fountain pen acquisition disorder) has settled down somewhat, but I've been slowly collecting more mechanical drafting pencils to add to my quiver. I wanted to try some pencils that I've seen and read about (other than the <a href="http://dailyacquisition.blogspot.com/2012/08/pentel-sharp-kerry-mechanical-pencil.html" target="_blank">Pentel Sharp Kerry</a> and the <a href="http://dailyacquisition.blogspot.com/2013/03/pentel-graph-1000-pencil.html" target="_blank">Pentel Graph 1000 For Pro</a>). I admit that I went a little overboard and, in a moment of geekness, ordered three pencils from a Japanese vendor: Pentel P205; Staedtler 925-35; and Pilot S10 (shown left to right in the following picture).<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UZAVwzesFF8/Ul8qe_dkrSI/AAAAAAAAA-8/NjtKrdWtLq0/s1600/IMG_6250.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UZAVwzesFF8/Ul8qe_dkrSI/AAAAAAAAA-8/NjtKrdWtLq0/s200/IMG_6250.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Three Of A Perfect Pair</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I bought the P205 for nostalgic reasons, as this is the classic mechanical pencil that I used during high school, college, on the job, etc. It's a great design, and it works great, too. I got this pencil in the 0.5 mm size, and in a special colorway that looks like carbon fiber.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiaDxukQwj1dlUgVYcVdKqzs23yWtcVNt4i0AhEUHAWu5BUzYhfwJAsy_jzjkZRoo5vnQJ0JdTPBgXBDbN5GQSx8R8LrOAJ_-iUZis74ogVXclih7FYZZeW4cwF0lhKhEGckEtiGmxROk/s1600/IMG_6245.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiaDxukQwj1dlUgVYcVdKqzs23yWtcVNt4i0AhEUHAWu5BUzYhfwJAsy_jzjkZRoo5vnQJ0JdTPBgXBDbN5GQSx8R8LrOAJ_-iUZis74ogVXclih7FYZZeW4cwF0lhKhEGckEtiGmxROk/s200/IMG_6245.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Classic P205</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I ordered the Staedtler primarily because <a href="http://davesmechanicalpencils.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Dave</a> ranks it in his top ten. I had to see for myself. I opted for the navy blue version, also in the 0.5 mm size. The size is conspicuously marked on the end of the eraser cap, which is great unless you are a free spirit who likes "points up" in your pencil cup.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TKJpFRG6ccw/Ul8t3BCXYwI/AAAAAAAAA_Q/Hg-QHd6e5lY/s1600/IMG_6244.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TKJpFRG6ccw/Ul8t3BCXYwI/AAAAAAAAA_Q/Hg-QHd6e5lY/s200/IMG_6244.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Staedtler 925-35</td></tr>
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The fit and finish of the Staedtler 925-35 is really nice. The knurling at the business end is nearly perfect, and the chrome accents look great against the blue body. The pocket clip is sturdy, with a good amount of tension. The lead hardness indicator near the knurling is a nice touch (it has selections for 3H, 2H, H, F, HB, B, and 2B).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qRE20qoqV7E/Ul8ubZat6fI/AAAAAAAAA_Y/jL30PN4PZYo/s1600/IMG_6246.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qRE20qoqV7E/Ul8ubZat6fI/AAAAAAAAA_Y/jL30PN4PZYo/s200/IMG_6246.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Staedtler 925-35</td></tr>
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I got the Pilot S10 for its eye candy appeal, and because it also gets good reviews. Pilot's S10 line is color-coded according to the lead size. Fashion trumped function in this case, and I ordered the red translucent body (which just happened to be a 0.4 mm size). This pencil looks spectacular, worthy of prominent display in a pencil cup. There is a large grip section with fine knurling on it. It's not as grippy as the knurling on the Staedtler, but it is still effective.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY3kHEDbts5Uht8DewnbTGLc967yj4l-VSFpdRcHIIXpdcfxzcV5ZywlZhH_GO6Nxrxwx5j_djycJHQbwmfBY7KDFf0feqHB9GZz4asr3_97kpf7-Pcn3hQ6enaaGUcQ-ZarLyUH3QjsA/s1600/IMG_6248.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY3kHEDbts5Uht8DewnbTGLc967yj4l-VSFpdRcHIIXpdcfxzcV5ZywlZhH_GO6Nxrxwx5j_djycJHQbwmfBY7KDFf0feqHB9GZz4asr3_97kpf7-Pcn3hQ6enaaGUcQ-ZarLyUH3QjsA/s200/IMG_6248.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pilot Makes Good Pencils, Too</td></tr>
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Like the Staedtler, the S10 has an obvious lead size marking on the eraser cap, as shown below. The cap also serves as the lead hardness indicator, which has selections for 2H, H, F, HB, B, and 2B. The pocket clip is sturdy and strong, and its brushed silver finish pairs well with the other accents on the S10.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6hFZDvNGTi3VfRutvT1hU2HhujNxiYxZetIHNFMSV2eRQsFdKE9jo-9sNjdARbX0vChJLfIO5LVD-kd65j_c554Q4uAFgj2cBkIVTXZD6herfAVq7t9OJt1BMRFgrmn_gZp_mTJPK-uc/s1600/IMG_6243.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6hFZDvNGTi3VfRutvT1hU2HhujNxiYxZetIHNFMSV2eRQsFdKE9jo-9sNjdARbX0vChJLfIO5LVD-kd65j_c554Q4uAFgj2cBkIVTXZD6herfAVq7t9OJt1BMRFgrmn_gZp_mTJPK-uc/s200/IMG_6243.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pilot S10</td></tr>
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All three of these pencils work great. I don't use the Pentel P205 that much because I consider it to be more of a souvenir than an everyday writing instrument. The grip section of the Pilot S10 is noticeably thicker than the grip section of the Staedtler 925-35 (I don't own calipers; not that much of a dork).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiepDjsHaJHLO8Wi6fMHujyZUYiKvA4_4vQCxSdp73VpFCOKXFEmijqgeulmT658qsFHY_8HNooIAhQOqjwCx9MgGg_ydI8cGgbRrHZ8vAmjkjQbfvfycGxjzuj0wgkEpOX5cy94ynfYz8/s1600/IMG_6242.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiepDjsHaJHLO8Wi6fMHujyZUYiKvA4_4vQCxSdp73VpFCOKXFEmijqgeulmT658qsFHY_8HNooIAhQOqjwCx9MgGg_ydI8cGgbRrHZ8vAmjkjQbfvfycGxjzuj0wgkEpOX5cy94ynfYz8/s200/IMG_6242.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">S10, P205, 925-35</td></tr>
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I do own a digital scale - the P205 weighs 9.2 grams, the S10 weighs 19.7 grams, and the 925-35 weighs 16.8 grams (all with several leads installed). I realize that the S10 may be too beefy for extended drafting or sketching sessions, but I typically only use it for short periods of time. If I had to choose only one of these to write with, it would be the Staedtler 925-35. If I had to pick one to look at, the Pilot S10 wins.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738462910362093111.post-50674645940498268492013-10-21T07:57:00.000-07:002013-10-21T07:57:45.065-07:00San Diego Padres Baseball CapI promised myself that I would publish this post before the 2013 baseball season ends. So read on . . .<br />
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I wrote about <a href="http://dailyacquisition.blogspot.com/2013/07/59fifty-baseball-caps-yes.html" target="_blank">59Fifty baseball caps</a> a few months ago, and am still somewhat intrigued by the whole concept. Even though I'm not a huge baseball fan, I always like to root for the underdog. Accordingly, I recently acquired an official on-field cap bearing the logo of one of the suckiest teams in baseball: the San Diego Padres.<br />
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Technically, this piece of headwear should be called the New Era 59Fifty Official MLB On-Field Cap, San Diego Padres, Alternate Color (or something to that effect). The above picture shows the sticker flair that adorns the brand-new cap. I'm an old traditionalist, so I immediately removed all the stickers from the cap. I realize that some may consider this to be sacrilegious, but meh whatever. It's just a hat.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xvQxUpCP7mU/UljY6sl0-CI/AAAAAAAAA-c/7RtOiFRUDBE/s1600/IMG_6442.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xvQxUpCP7mU/UljY6sl0-CI/AAAAAAAAA-c/7RtOiFRUDBE/s200/IMG_6442.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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Yes, it's just a hat, but it's an OFFICIAL hat. It says so on the inner headband part. That makes it special, I guess. I like the fact that the hat isn't cluttered with New Era branding or other extraneous logos. It has the San Diego emblem on the front and the obligatory MLB "batter man" logo on the back - that logo has been around since the late 1960s (not kidding).</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMvQjwWctS2EbPAAIef6Sg3NVQX1GkKRgmOfvGkOC_L5h_t-tXJ8M-rLR7WWfR6UxAoSsByXx_XBlk9-bCfPFBjEtwYgnaJaRspuUIAt2MyLnJ4flDdn7IXVz8VBEsQ-I_VNIUpjbc1lA/s1600/IMG_6444.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMvQjwWctS2EbPAAIef6Sg3NVQX1GkKRgmOfvGkOC_L5h_t-tXJ8M-rLR7WWfR6UxAoSsByXx_XBlk9-bCfPFBjEtwYgnaJaRspuUIAt2MyLnJ4flDdn7IXVz8VBEsQ-I_VNIUpjbc1lA/s200/IMG_6444.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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I like the olive color and overall look of this cap. Unfortunately, the crown doesn't fit my pin head as well as it should. I may need to hit the New Era online forums to see how best to shrink the crown a bit. LOL, there's an online forum for everything in the world these days. So awesome.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1