Hey folks,
Am thinking it would be a cool idea to develope a database of what we collectively consider to be quality brand suppliers of various gear.
This could include HU's, EQ, DSP's, Subs, amps, speakers, prefab enclosures, wire & hardware items. Does not have to be all inclusive or exhaustive, but deep enough where we can point folks to known good gear, where to buy and a general rating structure.
It will take a while to compile such data, depending on how many people help out on the project. But it would be a valuable tool as a quick reference guide to some of the better brands of gear out there.
This would eventually end up in our reference library or FAQ section. In fact, I may ask Walter to open a special link for this information when compiled. (if we do this project)
Here's a general idea of format and what to include: (but open to suggestions)
Brand: JBL Amplifiers
Web ID: www.jbl.com
Product: Class D amplifiers (subs)
General Info: Comes in several power ratings
BP150.1 - 150 RMS @ 1 or 2 ohms
BP300.1 - 300 RMS " "
BP600.1 - 600 RMS " "
BP1200.1 -1200 RMS " "
Comments: A potent series of Class D sub amps in this grouping. All amps in this series are 1 & 2 ohm stable. JBL rates these amps at 12.9 volts source power. If you have 13.5 volts to run them, you get more than rated power. In all, reliable, dependable, rugged and very well priced for the market. A "best bang for the buck" amp choice. No frills, just brute power in a compact black box.
Rating: 4.0 stars of 5
Where to buy:
1. www.e-bay.com (car audio electronics)
2. http://www.ikesound.com/
Hummm, can see this may become a larger project than first anticipated. Perhaps we can prune some info to make the point, but for now... some inputs from others.
What do you guys think? Is this worth the effort? We could use some tools to gather information on gear and at least, a link on specs and where to buy???
Fire away boys... Comments?
Swez
Replies (47)
cplkittle on 12/30/2003 16:54:14
I am all for easy to read and use - quick reference setups.
I spend alot of time here hitting the refresh button, waiting for a question or just reason to research something.
Two things..
1) As far as ratings, I think it would be good for members to post their own rating for each entry, and a brief comment. Might be hard to do without a long list of replies though.
2) If one person could be designated to process/format each entry I think it would look alot neater. Ya know have one set format instead of 50. any volunteers?
erikcooper on 12/30/2003 17:22:31
What do you mean by format each entry? I can help out, I would love to. I can research information on the products as well. You guys would have a much better list of quality products but I can help find all the needed information on each one.
cplkittle on 12/30/2003 17:44:07
make them all look the same.
erikcooper on 12/30/2003 17:47:10
That is what I thought, if we set up a specific format I think everyone that would put time into it would follow that format wouldn't they?
cplkittle on 12/30/2003 18:01:03
true...
admin on 12/30/2003 23:06:20
This is a truely perfect idea Swez.. WOW! Lets brainstorm it for a while here.. WOW COFFEE
admin on 12/30/2003 23:07:54
For the format I think we could develop a form that will take care of that. We just have to decide on the elements we want to prsent..
swez on 12/30/2003 23:39:39
Good responses here... I'm impressed!
Yes, a standardized format would be best and filling in the appropriate fields as whatever we decide collectively to include in the database, would offer a coherant and consistant theme and look. A simple form is adequate and just fill in the blanks.
After the data is compiled, several of us can review, edit and then with Walt's help, begin installing the database.
Does that seem logical and do-able? Comments?
Swez
admin on 12/30/2003 23:44:20
Sounds like a good start.. We will also have to work on the Category system as well..
Like Cat-SubCat-SubCat-Subcat
Three Subcats deep max..
admin on 12/30/2003 23:49:02
We could even set it up so that when the final user gets to use the database they can put together a system from the database and save them in a shopping cart like config for later retreval.
erikcooper on 12/31/2003 01:01:16
I am thinking maybe on speakers, subs, and amps the subcats could just be based on Maximum wattage RMS.
Meaning:
Cat: Subwoofers
Subcat 1: up to 500w RMS
Subcat 2: 500w RMS to 1000w RMS
Subcat 3: over 1000w RMS
I think those may work for subs, maybe amps as well. You guys would be better picking components and coaxs because I am not real sure on what the classifications ought to be for them.
Also, another thought on amps could be the subcats are whether they are mono or dual or multi channel amps.
Relax_The_Mind on 12/31/2003 04:16:45
Yes... I can help much with the info and such and probably the programming. Reviews are great too. Maybe sometime I can actually use my equipment for something useful besides collecting dust. And MAYBE...just maybe we can get manufacturers/webstores to send us stuff to review.
Pictures too... Hey Walt how much space ya got for pictures?
admin on 12/31/2003 08:00:09
As of right now we have:
Disk Space
(Used / Allowed)
61.64 MB / 200 MB (30.82 %)
Total Data Transfer
(Actual / Limit)
1804.03 MB / 10240 MB (17.62 %)
swez on 12/31/2003 09:03:08
Ahhh, COFFEE,
This is getting very interesting and a number of skills and hands are needed for product research, writing reviews, data conformity (edits) and then installing to a useful link for all to use and benefit from.
I really like the Cat, sub cat a,b,c limits idea too. Keeps the process to a managable size and scope. Just have to figure out the most efficient way to use that format when there may be many entries as in say... Subwoofers. There are so many out there, we may need to limit the field like Erik suggested. (by power ratings or SPL, SQ & SQL) whatever seems to fit best for the team and our readers is great.
Seems like we need a working platform to get started... meaning a format (standard form) for product review and a place to store these files (forms) as we collect them. Once the forms begin to gather in numbers, then we can review, edit, massage to some degree, then install into proper categories on the site.
Any suggestions on a form we can agree and work with?
Swez
erikcooper on 12/31/2003 09:16:59
I guess we could decide exactly what information we need to be on there. What is needed? Brand, Product, Variations (if any),Watts - RMS, Ohm stability(on amps), Ohm performance(on subs and speakers), Manufacturer's web page, Rating, and cheapest place we know to buy it. This of course is not all, and may be to much, I am just giving us a ground to start with.
Walt, how much do you pay for what ammount of web space and all? I may can get you a better host that could give you a better deal :)
dflock on 12/31/2003 10:05:37
Just skimming through the messages. It came to me that "Going Price" would also be an interesting category as well. After all the descriptions, a good "price range" would be helpful to those looking to purchase said item.
cplkittle on 12/31/2003 11:46:34
Grouping could be the most generic categories: and subcategories may go over 3. Here is what I was thinking:
HUs -> 1din, 1 1/2 din, 2 din, other
DVD HUs -> ??
EQs -> powered, passive... or 5band, 7band, 9band, 11band etc
amps-> 6ch, 5ch, 4ch, 2ch, mono
speakers -> component, 2 way, 3 way, 4way
subs -> 8", 10", 12", 15", 18"...
As far as formatting, starting with HUs this is what I would like to see.. add on to this list if I left something out.
Brand:............................alpine CDA 7897 (XM, MP3)
MSRP:............................$649.99
RMS/Peak per channel:...20/50
S/N ratio:...........................105dB
RCA Preouts:....................F, R, S. (Front, Rear, Sub)
Other:................................Bass engine pro sound shaping, optional aux input, 4v preout voltage, oversized 'fanom face', Media expander, 5 band parametric EQ, 6 position crossover.
erikcooper on 12/31/2003 12:21:08
Wow, that sounds like a nice HU lol. That looks good but we still need a "cheapest price we know of" and maybe manufacturer's webpage.
DP on 12/31/2003 16:52:19
I like the "Going Price" thing. Stating a price range could help ppl., when buying their products, to know whether or not their getting a good deal or they are being ripped off. Prob. everybodys been taken at least once on a sale.
To get everyone involved and to make it easier for the guys compiling data etc. and running the thing, members could send the specs of all the products they have installed, with recommendations to look at the product they have or to not recommend a product they have
swez on 12/31/2003 18:48:59
Can see this is potentially a big project and it will benefit many if we get enough participation on data collection, formatting and then installing infor into file categories.
I really liked Walt's suggestion where guys can pull up specific items, drop them into a "shopping cart or wish list" and go from there.
I agree that when listing products, MSRP $ and a typical price range is a useful piece of info. Some general product specs would be good too, as would a web link to review the product both technically and visually.
We may wish to avoid getting too detailed about any one product (specs) as this is what the MFG link should provide.
OK, moving on... let's try to identify what fields of data should be included on the preliminary format draft.... How's this look for starters?
Product Category: Tush tester
Manufacturer: XYZ Widgets, Inc.
Web Link: http://www.widggets.com
Product #: XXL Buttz blaster
MSRP: $299.99
Street price: $179.00 - 225.00 USD
Specifications: yadda yadda yadda
Product commentary: Fits anyone to a tee. Nice color choices, available in leather, vinyl, cloth or Spandex (may include features in this field or in Specifications line items???)
Where to buy: Best prices off e-bay or Widgets Direct factory outlets
OK,,,, just a first pass, what else would be helpful, but not too cumbersome to add to this general format?
Comments?
Swez
cplkittle on 12/31/2003 21:53:15
I can't find the tush tester on ebay damnit!
maybe a price/url listing ie
www.ebay $140-150
www.etronics $155
www.cartunes $135-150
and relax the mind posts pics here alot, maybe we could include 1 or 2 good small pics in the post.
erikcooper on 01/2/2004 02:13:52
Looking good so far, I guess we need a list of good items we wish to review and post as well. BTW what is a tush tester?
Munchiesyumm on 01/4/2004 14:38:49
That is a grand idea!
I would like to point out that we already have a somewhat developed list of products. It's definatly a lot of stuff on this one but very helpful. I find my self refering to it many times
The article by xplicitblitzboi named "Should I Buy This?"
kiaman on 01/5/2004 02:36:50
one thing, the reviews should be reviewd by the admin, or one of the golds, remeber what was going on when Ikesound let people review the products?
cplkittle on 01/6/2004 13:12:46
don't recall that.. would you fill us in for those that don't know, Kia?
or should we keep the product specifications and reviews seperate?
One thing I like about this place is that it is unbiased.. maybe a quality/price rating will suffice, but then again that kinda defeats the purpose of the whole setup. Maybe just try to keep personal opinions to a minimum..I'm kinda torn on this one.
kiaman on 01/6/2004 14:46:42
heh, people went crazy...started makeing outrageous claims (such as hitting "200db" lmao with sony subs none the less!!), people yelling at each other, brand bias, alot of things. it really kinda made me sad to read all of them.
swez on 01/7/2004 00:51:45
OK, we have many good ideas in the brain storming end of the project. Now we need to move to the first order of business... a useful generic format.
Once we get the page details in hand, then we can start the research, product reviews, pricing details and technical data. Seems best if we divide the work up and allow folks to choose what they know most about, then fill in the forms.
This does not have to be a gradious slew of details. Just some of the key specs most would need to want them to dig deeper if needed. That why I suggest a product link or URL to the spec sheets.
More tomorrow as it's getting late and I am getting slap happy...
Swez out
PS Tush tester is a device that comforms to our body, regardless of the size jeans we wear. Fits over your car seat and gives bodily massage and IR heating to lower back too. If you too big for yo britches, there is a fat blaster massage setting to help slim that too. I saw it on QVC.... my parents fav channel...
Ohhhh....any ideas on how to block out QVC, HSN and the like? My parents watch way too damn much of these shows and the place is getting cluttered with all kinds of gizzmos and gadgits we never use. You know.. like porn blocker for kids, only this one blocks shopping at home for junk we don't need, use or have space for???
erikcooper on 01/7/2004 02:16:12
LOL, glad I don't have that problem swez. How old are you btw?
I think we could use the format listed above, they all look fine, list one you like and we can vote yay or nay and add this or that.
cplkittle on 01/7/2004 08:58:51
I already have several amplifier spec sheets, I will have to go back and find the address for these. Should we start a post first, then cut and paste from there once the final database is set up?
swez on 01/7/2004 10:49:42
Erik,
My parents are in their mid/late 70's. I am getting much closer to 50 than 45 everyday... We all live together as someone needs to keep an eye on them. Between them, 3 heart attacks a few strokes and a 5-bypass surgery to date.
I feel it is my oportunity (not obligation) to help them get along as they once did when I was a wee lad. Was fortunate enough to be there to get EMS help for both parents when they had their attacks. It's been tough switching roles as our parents age and need more help that they use to. But they cared for me... now I can give some of that back to them. Hope our new Gen Xer's will take a similar view as their parents age and need more help.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
About the format, let's try to keep it simple and easy to use or modify later. For starters, how about these primary fields of data?
Product class: AMPLIFIER Class D Sub amp
Mfg: JBL
URL/link: http://www.jbl.com
Model #: BP-1200.1
MSRP: $550.00
Going price: $250-325.00 (USD)
Specifications:
Output 4 Ohms: 600W x 1 (RMS @ 12.9 volts feeder)
Output 2 Ohms: 1200W x 1
Output 1 Ohm: 1200W x 1
Signal-to-Noise (dBA): >100
Frequency Response (±3dB): 20Hz - 500Hz
Total Harmonic Distortion: 0.1%
Input Sensitivity: 250mV - 4V
Features:
Die-cast chassis uses the entire footprint for amplifier cooling
"Direct-Connect" allows choice of 4 - 8-gauge power and ground cable
High-frequency switching power supply is more efficient, drawing far less current from the vehicle's electrical system
Four high-level and low-level inputs facilitate constant bass, regardless of head unit fader position
Variable electronic crossover and bass-boost optimize subwoofer perf
Current draw is 114A. maximum and nominal fusing of 80-100A is recommended
Warranty: 1 Year
Comments: yadda yadda.... good, bad and the ugly etc.
Overall Ratings: 4 stars of 5
OK, that's my first pass at a format... anything we should add, delete, modify??? Comments please.
Swez
erikcooper on 01/7/2004 12:54:06
Looks good to me.
admin on 01/8/2004 21:12:12
Ok let me look at this:
Am thinking it would be a cool idea to develope a database of what we collectively consider to be quality brand suppliers of various gear.
This could include HU's, EQ, DSP's, Subs, amps, speakers, prefab enclosures, wire & hardware items. Does not have to be all inclusive or exhaustive, but deep enough where we can point folks to known good gear, where to buy and a general rating structure.
It will take a while to compile such data, depending on how many people help out on the project. But it would be a valuable tool as a quick reference guide to some of the better brands of gear out there.
This would eventually end up in our reference library or FAQ section. In fact, I may ask Walter to open a special link for this information when compiled. (if we do this project)
Here's a general idea of format and what to include: (but open to suggestions)
Brand: JBL Amplifiers
Web ID: www.jbl.com
Product: Class D amplifiers (subs)
General Info: Comes in several power ratings
BP150.1 - 150 RMS @ 1 or 2 ohms
BP300.1 - 300 RMS " "
BP600.1 - 600 RMS " "
BP1200.1 -1200 RMS " "
Comments: A potent series of Class D sub amps in this grouping. All amps in this series are 1 & 2 ohm stable. JBL rates these amps at 12.9 volts source power. If you have 13.5 volts to run them, you get more than rated power. In all, reliable, dependable, rugged and very well priced for the market. A "best bang for the buck" amp choice. No frills, just brute power in a compact black box.
Rating: 4.0 stars of 5
Where to buy:
1. www.e-bay.com (car audio electronics)
2. http://www.ikesound.com/
Hummm, can see this may become a larger project than first anticipated. Perhaps we can prune some info to make the point, but for now... some inputs from others.
What do you guys think? Is this worth the effort? We could use some tools to gather information on gear and at least, a link on specs and where to buy???
Fire away boys... Comments?
Swez
Replies (47)
cplkittle on 12/30/2003 16:54:14
I am all for easy to read and use - quick reference setups.
I spend alot of time here hitting the refresh button, waiting for a question or just reason to research something.
Two things..
1) As far as ratings, I think it would be good for members to post their own rating for each entry, and a brief comment. Might be hard to do without a long list of replies though.
2) If one person could be designated to process/format each entry I think it would look alot neater. Ya know have one set format instead of 50. any volunteers?
erikcooper on 12/30/2003 17:22:31
What do you mean by format each entry? I can help out, I would love to. I can research information on the products as well. You guys would have a much better list of quality products but I can help find all the needed information on each one.
cplkittle on 12/30/2003 17:44:07
make them all look the same.
erikcooper on 12/30/2003 17:47:10
That is what I thought, if we set up a specific format I think everyone that would put time into it would follow that format wouldn't they?
cplkittle on 12/30/2003 18:01:03
true...
admin on 12/30/2003 23:06:20
This is a truely perfect idea Swez.. WOW! Lets brainstorm it for a while here.. WOW COFFEE
admin on 12/30/2003 23:07:54
For the format I think we could develop a form that will take care of that. We just have to decide on the elements we want to prsent..
swez on 12/30/2003 23:39:39
Good responses here... I'm impressed!
Yes, a standardized format would be best and filling in the appropriate fields as whatever we decide collectively to include in the database, would offer a coherant and consistant theme and look. A simple form is adequate and just fill in the blanks.
After the data is compiled, several of us can review, edit and then with Walt's help, begin installing the database.
Does that seem logical and do-able? Comments?
Swez
admin on 12/30/2003 23:44:20
Sounds like a good start.. We will also have to work on the Category system as well..
Like Cat-SubCat-SubCat-Subcat
Three Subcats deep max..
admin on 12/30/2003 23:49:02
We could even set it up so that when the final user gets to use the database they can put together a system from the database and save them in a shopping cart like config for later retreval.
erikcooper on 12/31/2003 01:01:16
I am thinking maybe on speakers, subs, and amps the subcats could just be based on Maximum wattage RMS.
Meaning:
Cat: Subwoofers
Subcat 1: up to 500w RMS
Subcat 2: 500w RMS to 1000w RMS
Subcat 3: over 1000w RMS
I think those may work for subs, maybe amps as well. You guys would be better picking components and coaxs because I am not real sure on what the classifications ought to be for them.
Also, another thought on amps could be the subcats are whether they are mono or dual or multi channel amps.
Relax_The_Mind on 12/31/2003 04:16:45
Yes... I can help much with the info and such and probably the programming. Reviews are great too. Maybe sometime I can actually use my equipment for something useful besides collecting dust. And MAYBE...just maybe we can get manufacturers/webstores to send us stuff to review.
Pictures too... Hey Walt how much space ya got for pictures?
Stuff like this takes no longer than 5 minutes or so...I can whip up some cute wiring diagrams...
admin on 12/31/2003 08:00:09
As of right now we have:
Disk Space
(Used / Allowed)
61.64 MB / 200 MB (30.82 %)
Total Data Transfer
(Actual / Limit)
1804.03 MB / 10240 MB (17.62 %)
swez on 12/31/2003 09:03:08
Ahhh, COFFEE,
This is getting very interesting and a number of skills and hands are needed for product research, writing reviews, data conformity (edits) and then installing to a useful link for all to use and benefit from.
I really like the Cat, sub cat a,b,c limits idea too. Keeps the process to a managable size and scope. Just have to figure out the most efficient way to use that format when there may be many entries as in say... Subwoofers. There are so many out there, we may need to limit the field like Erik suggested. (by power ratings or SPL, SQ & SQL) whatever seems to fit best for the team and our readers is great.
Seems like we need a working platform to get started... meaning a format (standard form) for product review and a place to store these files (forms) as we collect them. Once the forms begin to gather in numbers, then we can review, edit, massage to some degree, then install into proper categories on the site.
Any suggestions on a form we can agree and work with?
Swez
erikcooper on 12/31/2003 09:16:59
I guess we could decide exactly what information we need to be on there. What is needed? Brand, Product, Variations (if any),Watts - RMS, Ohm stability(on amps), Ohm performance(on subs and speakers), Manufacturer's web page, Rating, and cheapest place we know to buy it. This of course is not all, and may be to much, I am just giving us a ground to start with.
Walt, how much do you pay for what ammount of web space and all? I may can get you a better host that could give you a better deal :)
dflock on 12/31/2003 10:05:37
Just skimming through the messages. It came to me that "Going Price" would also be an interesting category as well. After all the descriptions, a good "price range" would be helpful to those looking to purchase said item.
cplkittle on 12/31/2003 11:46:34
Grouping could be the most generic categories: and subcategories may go over 3. Here is what I was thinking:
HUs -> 1din, 1 1/2 din, 2 din, other
DVD HUs -> ??
EQs -> powered, passive... or 5band, 7band, 9band, 11band etc
amps-> 6ch, 5ch, 4ch, 2ch, mono
speakers -> component, 2 way, 3 way, 4way
subs -> 8", 10", 12", 15", 18"...
As far as formatting, starting with HUs this is what I would like to see.. add on to this list if I left something out.
Brand:............................alpine CDA 7897 (XM, MP3)
MSRP:............................$649.99
RMS/Peak per channel:...20/50
S/N ratio:...........................105dB
RCA Preouts:....................F, R, S. (Front, Rear, Sub)
Other:................................Bass engine pro sound shaping, optional aux input, 4v preout voltage, oversized 'fanom face', Media expander, 5 band parametric EQ, 6 position crossover.
erikcooper on 12/31/2003 12:21:08
Wow, that sounds like a nice HU lol. That looks good but we still need a "cheapest price we know of" and maybe manufacturer's webpage.
DP on 12/31/2003 16:52:19
I like the "Going Price" thing. Stating a price range could help ppl., when buying their products, to know whether or not their getting a good deal or they are being ripped off. Prob. everybodys been taken at least once on a sale.
To get everyone involved and to make it easier for the guys compiling data etc. and running the thing, members could send the specs of all the products they have installed, with recommendations to look at the product they have or to not recommend a product they have
swez on 12/31/2003 18:48:59
Can see this is potentially a big project and it will benefit many if we get enough participation on data collection, formatting and then installing infor into file categories.
I really liked Walt's suggestion where guys can pull up specific items, drop them into a "shopping cart or wish list" and go from there.
I agree that when listing products, MSRP $ and a typical price range is a useful piece of info. Some general product specs would be good too, as would a web link to review the product both technically and visually.
We may wish to avoid getting too detailed about any one product (specs) as this is what the MFG link should provide.
OK, moving on... let's try to identify what fields of data should be included on the preliminary format draft.... How's this look for starters?
Product Category: Tush tester
Manufacturer: XYZ Widgets, Inc.
Web Link: http://www.widggets.com
Product #: XXL Buttz blaster
MSRP: $299.99
Street price: $179.00 - 225.00 USD
Specifications: yadda yadda yadda
Product commentary: Fits anyone to a tee. Nice color choices, available in leather, vinyl, cloth or Spandex (may include features in this field or in Specifications line items???)
Where to buy: Best prices off e-bay or Widgets Direct factory outlets
OK,,,, just a first pass, what else would be helpful, but not too cumbersome to add to this general format?
Comments?
Swez
cplkittle on 12/31/2003 21:53:15
I can't find the tush tester on ebay damnit!
maybe a price/url listing ie
www.ebay $140-150
www.etronics $155
www.cartunes $135-150
and relax the mind posts pics here alot, maybe we could include 1 or 2 good small pics in the post.
erikcooper on 01/2/2004 02:13:52
Looking good so far, I guess we need a list of good items we wish to review and post as well. BTW what is a tush tester?
Munchiesyumm on 01/4/2004 14:38:49
That is a grand idea!
I would like to point out that we already have a somewhat developed list of products. It's definatly a lot of stuff on this one but very helpful. I find my self refering to it many times
The article by xplicitblitzboi named "Should I Buy This?"
kiaman on 01/5/2004 02:36:50
one thing, the reviews should be reviewd by the admin, or one of the golds, remeber what was going on when Ikesound let people review the products?
cplkittle on 01/6/2004 13:12:46
don't recall that.. would you fill us in for those that don't know, Kia?
or should we keep the product specifications and reviews seperate?
One thing I like about this place is that it is unbiased.. maybe a quality/price rating will suffice, but then again that kinda defeats the purpose of the whole setup. Maybe just try to keep personal opinions to a minimum..I'm kinda torn on this one.
kiaman on 01/6/2004 14:46:42
heh, people went crazy...started makeing outrageous claims (such as hitting "200db" lmao with sony subs none the less!!), people yelling at each other, brand bias, alot of things. it really kinda made me sad to read all of them.
swez on 01/7/2004 00:51:45
OK, we have many good ideas in the brain storming end of the project. Now we need to move to the first order of business... a useful generic format.
Once we get the page details in hand, then we can start the research, product reviews, pricing details and technical data. Seems best if we divide the work up and allow folks to choose what they know most about, then fill in the forms.
This does not have to be a gradious slew of details. Just some of the key specs most would need to want them to dig deeper if needed. That why I suggest a product link or URL to the spec sheets.
More tomorrow as it's getting late and I am getting slap happy...
Swez out
PS Tush tester is a device that comforms to our body, regardless of the size jeans we wear. Fits over your car seat and gives bodily massage and IR heating to lower back too. If you too big for yo britches, there is a fat blaster massage setting to help slim that too. I saw it on QVC.... my parents fav channel...
Ohhhh....any ideas on how to block out QVC, HSN and the like? My parents watch way too damn much of these shows and the place is getting cluttered with all kinds of gizzmos and gadgits we never use. You know.. like porn blocker for kids, only this one blocks shopping at home for junk we don't need, use or have space for???
erikcooper on 01/7/2004 02:16:12
LOL, glad I don't have that problem swez. How old are you btw?
I think we could use the format listed above, they all look fine, list one you like and we can vote yay or nay and add this or that.
cplkittle on 01/7/2004 08:58:51
I already have several amplifier spec sheets, I will have to go back and find the address for these. Should we start a post first, then cut and paste from there once the final database is set up?
swez on 01/7/2004 10:49:42
Erik,
My parents are in their mid/late 70's. I am getting much closer to 50 than 45 everyday... We all live together as someone needs to keep an eye on them. Between them, 3 heart attacks a few strokes and a 5-bypass surgery to date.
I feel it is my oportunity (not obligation) to help them get along as they once did when I was a wee lad. Was fortunate enough to be there to get EMS help for both parents when they had their attacks. It's been tough switching roles as our parents age and need more help that they use to. But they cared for me... now I can give some of that back to them. Hope our new Gen Xer's will take a similar view as their parents age and need more help.
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About the format, let's try to keep it simple and easy to use or modify later. For starters, how about these primary fields of data?
Product class: AMPLIFIER Class D Sub amp
Mfg: JBL
URL/link: http://www.jbl.com
Model #: BP-1200.1
MSRP: $550.00
Going price: $250-325.00 (USD)
Specifications:
Output 4 Ohms: 600W x 1 (RMS @ 12.9 volts feeder)
Output 2 Ohms: 1200W x 1
Output 1 Ohm: 1200W x 1
Signal-to-Noise (dBA): >100
Frequency Response (±3dB): 20Hz - 500Hz
Total Harmonic Distortion: 0.1%
Input Sensitivity: 250mV - 4V
Features:
Die-cast chassis uses the entire footprint for amplifier cooling
"Direct-Connect" allows choice of 4 - 8-gauge power and ground cable
High-frequency switching power supply is more efficient, drawing far less current from the vehicle's electrical system
Four high-level and low-level inputs facilitate constant bass, regardless of head unit fader position
Variable electronic crossover and bass-boost optimize subwoofer perf
Current draw is 114A. maximum and nominal fusing of 80-100A is recommended
Warranty: 1 Year
Comments: yadda yadda.... good, bad and the ugly etc.
Overall Ratings: 4 stars of 5
OK, that's my first pass at a format... anything we should add, delete, modify??? Comments please.
Swez
erikcooper on 01/7/2004 12:54:06
Looks good to me.
admin on 01/8/2004 21:12:12
Ok let me look at this:
Product class: (Sort,Filter)
Mfg:(Sort,Filter)
URL/link:
Model #:
MSRP:(Sort,Filter)
Going price low:(Sort,Filter)
Going price high:(Sort,Filter)
Specifications:
Current Draw: Q: Add this??
Output 4 Ohms:
@ Voltage:
Output 2 Ohms:
@ Voltage:
Output 1 Ohm:
@ Voltage:
Signal-to-Noise (dBA):(Sort,Filter)
Frequency Response (±3dB): Q: Will this always be ±3dB?
Total Harmonic Distortion:
Input Sensitivity:
Features:
swez on 01/9/2004 10:30:48
Inputs for you Walt,
Q1. Current Draw: Q: Add this?? (yes)
Input Voltage: (add this too)
Q2. Output 4 Ohms: ### WATTS RMS & PEAK
Output 2 Ohms:
Output Bridged:
Q3. Frequency Response (±3dB): Q: Will this always be ±3dB?
(not always... better amps rate +/- 1dB, but for now, let's go with the 3dB)
Q4. Total Harmonic Distortion: #.## (% THD)
Input Sensitivity: (add Range after sensi..)
Features: (separate this field from specs)
Getting a good start on the amp page.. nice work so far CLAP
Swez
cplkittle on 01/12/2004 19:11:47
who does the ratings? is that going to be a generalization added by the person that compiled the data for the specific product, or are we going to vote on them. -or-
Could we add a link to a couple of product review pages as well?
erikcooper on 01/13/2004 00:20:27
It seems to me as if opinions on most products are basicly the same here. Before a product sheet is put into the database we could just make sure most the golds agree to the review? No since in rushing the database together anyway.
admin on 01/13/2004 21:49:34
How about I setup a poll for each one of the products in the TEMP Database where the others can vote on them and comment, make changes.. etc.
On another IDEA for the Articles section is to allow members to make comments, email to friends and vote on articles. Golds will be able to delete any comments that are not exceptable of course.
swez on 01/16/2004 09:26:43
Yes, a "straw pole" (our experiences and general comments) might be helpful and links to credible reviews may also be considered. There are a few good car audio mags out there that give a good read on what to expect... we just have to find them, quote them appropriately and then use a generalized rating system of say... 1-5 stars. I think it best to avoid product marketing hype from Mfgs. Too much BS, but no go... if you know what I mean.
Rating scheme suggested:
* = Poor quality, performance etc. AVOID THIS PRODUCT
** = Adequate Q & P for low budget applications
*** = Good Q & P, useful gear
**** = Above average Q,P, and $, (a best overall buy)
***** = Top drawer gear... does not get much better then this
Comments folks?
Swez
erikcooper on 01/16/2004 12:40:57
sounds good to me. you left the last star out on the top quality gear but I think we will all get it.
swez on 01/16/2004 18:14:53
Fixed.... ya HAPPY now EC? LOL
CLAP
erikcooper on 01/17/2004 20:11:19
Seamless...
cplkittle on 01/21/2004 20:55:59
maybe on amps, a breakdown of actual $/watts ratio? for quick comparison.
1200w amp MSRP $599, going price $300 ($0.25/watt)
600w amp MSRP $359, going price $180 ($0.30/watt)
admin on 11/11/2004 00:49:42
COFFEE
swez on 11/11/2004 10:05:48
COFFEE ... does that mean we can get started on our end as Admin has laid out the format? Sounds like a que to me.
OK, will start with one we all know well and see how it goes. I will choose the JBL Power valve series first and then we can massage it.
Swez
ttocs on 11/11/2004 11:10:33
I caught walt on the chat line a couple of nights ago and he asked me to try to enter a couple to test it. Seems like it was working but he said it was still just for testing.
admin on 11/11/2004 17:28:55
If you do a real one, It will be saved USFLAG
LAP216 on 06/16/2009 02:22:25
how r you guys doing? this seams like a grate idea it would be a huge help to a lot of people . i think that with todays economy if you list say amps in a price rang $100-$250 exp. then you could give rating on a most out of your money basis. what do you think
swez on 06/16/2009 09:29:22
It is a good idea and we hope to do this at a future time. At the moment, we are very light on manpower and time to do such research on a large scale.
There are 3 main categories we look at in ranking gear:
1. Meets of exceeds specs (The big name brands best gear)
2. Meets minimum specs (Entry level gear from main brands)
3. Does not meet specs (Knock offs and very cheap off brands)
Swez
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