Samson – Page 70 – Appliances catalogue

23 Apr

Lack Of Sleep Kills Your Libido

April 23, 2021
Posted by Samson

Getting a good night's sleep is very important. Whether you're looking for the best hybrid mattresses around or developing an evening routine for relaxing, you need to do whatever you can to get a good night's sleep.

Lack of sleep can make you irritable, damage your memory, and take your productivity and energy into a nosedive. However, lack of sleep can affect not only your performance at work or school, but also your performance in the bedroom. Having trouble falling and / or falling asleep can affect your libido.

But why does lack of sleep harm your libido? What aspects of this withdrawal lead to a lower sex drive?

It lowers your testosterone

Perhaps the biggest reason lack of sleep is affecting your libido is because poor sleep lowers your testosterone. Lack of sleep can throw your hormones, including testosterone, out of whack. Testosterone plays a huge role in men's sex drives, and when it is lowered, their libido will follow suit.

While experts are still not 100% sure how testosterone increases libido, a decrease will most likely lead to a decrease in sex drive. In addition to harming your libido, low testosterone levels have also been linked to erectile dysfunction in some cases, especially those where sleep apnea is present.

There are ways to artificially boost testosterone, but simply setting your sleep schedule should be enough. Many may think that only men have testosterone, but women also have the hormone and it affects their sex drive as well.

Makes you very tired

Of course, a lack of sleep also makes you incredibly tired. And the last thing most people want to do when they're tired is to be intimate with their partner. They just don't have the energy or the cravings and would rather sleep.

Even if you are able to feel tired, it certainly won't be as comfortable as it could be in many cases. So, not only does fatigue damage your drive, it can also affect its performance.

Being tired can also make you more irritable, angry, and moody, which are not the best feelings for getting aroused and intimate. If you are constantly tired, there are fewer opportunities for intimacy with your partner, which in some cases can put a strain on the relationship.

There is a link between sleep and depression

(via: https://pixabay.com/photos/window-view-sitting-girl-indoors-1081788/)

Unfortunately, depression is a common part of life for many people. There are many types of depression that affect the lives of millions of Americans. Many things can cause or worsen depression, including lack of sleep. This is because insomnia is a common symptom of depression, which makes it incredibly difficult to fall asleep.

As you can imagine, depression doesn't exactly help your sex drive, and the last thing many people who experience it want to do is get intimate. While it's not entirely known whether a lack of sleep due to insomnia can cause depression or whether depression can cause insomnia, either way, a lack of sleep related to depression will almost certainly damage your libido.

As you can see, there are several reasons why a lack of sleep can affect your sex drive. If you want to increase your libido, make sure you get restful, quality sleep every night.

23 Apr

Blog

Why Gyms Are Coming Back More Essential Than Ever

April 23, 2021
Posted by Samson

I've heard people rave about their home exercise routine and predict the death of traditional gyms. Then why should they return?

It was the year of home training – Peloton, Nordic Track and Beach Body. Or maybe you just got on the Craigslist and outfitted the garage. Over and over again, I've heard people rave about how much they love their home exercise routine and predict the death of traditional gyms. Why should anyone go back?

23 Apr

Blog

Polk React Review: Affordable, Expandable, And Smart

April 23, 2021
Posted by Samson

Polk React soundbar

"With its excellent film and music quality, it is a valuable addition to any TV room."

Sleek, flat design
Easy adjustment
Very good sound quality
Affordable wireless accessories
Alexa built in

No HDMI inputs
Playback controls are missing on the remote control
Requires Alexa for Wi-Fi streaming
No Chromecast or AirPlay

By far the biggest advantage of buying a soundbar is its simplicity. One speaker, two cables and bam! Much better sound than your TV alone. As soundbars add functions such as subwoofers, surround speakers or voice functions, their price and complexity also increase.

Polk's $ 250 React soundbar is designed to help. On its own, it's a smart speaker with Alexa technology that delivers decent virtual surround sound. But you can also bring the system to a full 5.1 setup by adding Polks $ 200 wireless subwoofer and $ 200 surround speakers.

Does this $ 650 investment compete or beat the competition? Let's try it out.

What's in the box?

Polk provides the React soundbar with everything you need to get started, including an HDMI cable, an optical cable, a remote control with batteries, a wall-mount template, and wall-mount hardware. There are loads of styrofoam to throw away (or recycle if appropriate facilities are available in your area) and a number of multi-purpose bags.

It gets very little attention as to what exactly is what you want in a soundbar.

design

At just 34 inches wide, the Polk React should easily be placed in front of almost any television. Because of its height of 2.2 inches, it is short enough to avoid blocking the underside of the screen (and any infrared receivers there). .

Polk React soundbar Rich Shibley / Digital Trends

The (almost) completely dark gray, cloth-wrapped exterior is completely neutral and hardly attracts any attention, which in my opinion is exactly what you expect from a soundbar. I think it's far more appealing than Polk's first attempt at a smart soundbar – the $ 299 Polk Command Bar.

On the top, it looks like someone punched a hole the size of an echo dot in the speaker and then put an echo dot in it. This isn't far from the truth – that circular set of buttons and microphones is indeed the tell-tale sign that the React is an Alexa smart speaker, too.

In contrast to Sonos Beam or Arc or Bose Soundbar 300, the use of Alexa plays a central role in setting up the React. However, we will explain this further below.

The fabric housing of the React conceals two mid-range speakers, two tweeters and two passive bass radiators. Two LED displays are also faded out (until they light up): A long, segmented horizontal bar that serves as a level indicator for settings such as volume and bass, as well as Alexa's colorful, animated response cues and a small LED point that lights up depending on the source signal different colors (blue for Bluetooth, green for Dolby Audio, etc.).

The wireless React subwoofer, like so many other subwoofers, is a simple black box. However, thanks to its rectangular shape, it may be easier to hide behind or next to a couch than some of the more cube-shaped designs we've seen.

But I love the optional Polk SR2 wireless rear speakers. They have a fabric grille to match the React soundbar and a trapezoidal shape that gives them a lot of flexibility in placement. Their rubber feet allow them to sit comfortably on any surface, while the standard threaded holes for speaker mounting allow you to use a variety of third-party brackets and stands. Or you can just use the supplied mounting hardware. Surround speakers are rarely distinguished by their design, which makes the SR2 a refreshing change of pace.

links

Polk React soundbar inputs Rich Shibley / Digital Trends

The response is pretty barebones from the connectivity point of view. You get a single HDMI ARC port for audio only, an optical port in case your TV doesn't support HDMI ARC, and a USB port. There is no analog input. So you can't count on being able to connect an external wired sound source such as a portable media player.

Setting up the React using the Alexa app couldn't be easier.

There is also no way to use the optical and HDMI-ARC as separate inputs. They are mutually exclusive. Connecting one of them will lock the other.

Setup and configuration

Yes, it is possible to use the Polk React soundbar on its own without setting it up for use with Amazon Alexa. If this is what you intend to do, I recommend finding another soundbar. The Alexa app is required for Wi-Fi access, multi-room audio and intelligent speaker functions.

The good news is that setting up the React couldn't be easier using the Alexa app.

Just place the soundbar and connect it to your TV. If your TV has HDMI ARC and you don't mind sacrificing an HDMI port on your TV, use that connection. This allows the soundbar to control the volume / mute of the TV and vice versa. Otherwise an optical connection is fine and does not affect the sound quality at all.

Plug in the power cord and open the Amazon Alexa app. Within a few seconds, the app automatically detects that the reaction is available for setup and prompts you to do so.

Polk React soundbar with remote control Rich Shibley / Digital Trends

Pro tip: If you've never downloaded or used the Alexa app before, take a few minutes to download it and create a new account, or use your existing Amazon account. Doing this before turning on React for the first time will make the process a lot smoother.

The Alexa app will walk you through a few steps like choosing the React location in your home and choosing a default music service.

If you choose to go for the wireless subwoofer or the SR2 environment, the process of adding it should be painless as well. All I had to do was plug them in and the React would automatically recognize them and connect wirelessly. A voice prompt even told me that the SR2 speakers needed to be updated before they could work, and the React bar did that update automatically and restart itself. I've never seen a hands-off setup like this before.

If you've used your TV's built-in speakers, the React will feel like a serious upgrade.

I say it should be painless because it was like that for me. However, our senior editor Caleb Denison also set up a React soundbar and found that adding the surrounds wasn't quite as smooth (see our video review above).

Sound quality

The React soundbar alone sounds very good considering its size and price. In contrast to many inexpensive loudspeakers, it ensures an excellent frequency balance. Higher registers like speech are clear and precise, the midtones are well rendered, and the bass is far stronger than I expected because the soundbar is based on passive bass radiators – not active drivers – for its deep end.

Polk React soundbar Rich Shibley / Digital Trends

If you've used your TV's built-in speakers, the React will feel like a serious upgrade. Polk promises "big, detailed, virtual surround sound," and I'd say React largely lives up to that – at least in the "large" and "detailed" categories.

As far as simulating a real surround sound setup is concerned, it is not quite as successful as, for example, the Bose Soundbar 300. The React certainly offers a nice, wide soundstage that easily fills even medium-sized rooms with sound, but is not entirely successful Wraparound effect that the best virtual surround systems can achieve. This may be because the React bar is actually a two-channel speaker with discrete left and right drivers. If you need to virtualize one center channel, there isn't much room left for virtualizing two surround channels.

Polk offers four EQ presets: Music, Movie, Sports, and Night. Music and film sounded very similar to me. The night cuts most of the lower frequencies, making you less likely to disturb other people in your home who are trying to sleep. Sport should actually be called "speech" as it enhances higher frequencies for better clarity of dialogue.

The surrounds are not used at all when streaming music, which seems like a big missed opportunity.

The soundbar is a really fluid player when it comes to music too, but that's where the Wi-Fi connection comes in, activated by the Alexa app. The React has Bluetooth so you can stream music from any smartphone, tablet or computer. However, you will get significantly better quality if you stream using the services available in the Alexa app or via Spotify Connect.

Polk React Soundbar Subwoofer

Polk React Soundbar SR2 Surround Speakers

My only complaint is that the Alexa app doesn't support some services. Tidal and YouTube music are particularly absent. And since the React doesn't have AirPlay or Chromecast, you'll need to use Bluetooth if your favorite service isn't listed.

The addition of the wireless subwoofer does exactly what you would expect. Low-end bass goes from something you hear to something you feel, an important component for action movie fans.

Finally, adding the SR2 wireless surround speakers makes up for the lack of depth. As Denison points out in his video review, to get the most out of them, you need to turn up the volume on these speakers. Annoyingly, the surrounds are only for 5.1 soundtracks. They are not used at all when streaming music, which seems like a big missed opportunity.

Control and ease of use

The React's remote control is nothing special, but that's a good thing. It's comfortable to use, has dedicated buttons for all important settings, and although it's not backlit, the white labels on the black, rubberized surface are easy to read even in a fairly dark room. If you don't want to say "Alexa" before issuing a voice command, you can press the appropriate Alexa button instead.

I especially like when you add the SR2 wireless speakers. The remote control offers you volume controls and balance controls only for these channels.

The only missing component is playback controls when streaming music, which is an odd omission. Given the React's generous music options (including MP3 storage on a USB device), you'd think there was at least one play / pause button.

Polk React Soundbar Remote Control Rich Shibley / Digital Trends

The remote also seemed to be having trouble relaying its infrared commands to the soundbar. I had to adjust the angle of the remote further as I pointed it at the bar – sometimes the button registered immediately, sometimes not at all.

In the instructions, Polk warns that a light source aimed directly at the soundbar's IR sensor can cause interference, but I'm pretty sure it won't.

When you include Alexa in the equation, control is taken to the next level. Not only can you use the React for the myriad of tasks we can assign to smart speakers, such as: B. to inform us of the weather forecast or set reminders, but you can also access music or podcasts from the available services.

Using Alexa or the Alexa app to control music playback is simple but limited. You can access songs, albums, and playlists, but there is no way to add new favorites or create playlists. All of this must be done in the app of the respective service. It certainly can't be compared to what Sonos has to offer, but then again, the Sonos Beam costs considerably more.

I wish you could use Alexa for TV based commands e.g. For example, turning the TV on and off, or changing inputs (something you can do with the Bose Smart Soundbar 300), but that's not included in the React at the moment.

Our opinion

While it doesn't offer the same versatility as other smart soundbars like the Sonos Beam or the Bose Smart Soundbar 300, the Polk React is great value for both movies and music and can be easily and cheaply converted to a true 5.1 Surround be expanded sound home theater system.

Is there a better alternative?

If you want a midrange soundbar that doubles as a smart speaker, there is simply nothing on the market that comes close Polk React for the price.

If you're willing to spend $ 150 more, you can do both Sonos Beam and Bose Smart Soundbar 300 Choose from a voice assistant, better music streaming options, and better multi-room audio. However, upgrading to full surround sound systems costs considerably more.

If all you want is a simple, no-frills soundbar, this is it Vizio V21 It's hard to beat at just $ 180 including a wireless subwoofer.

How long it will take?

Polk Audio has a reputation for making solidly built speakers, and the React seems to be following that trend. The amplifier is guaranteed for one year and the speakers for three years. I assume it will take many years to come.

Should you buy it?

Yes. The Polk React is easy to use and sounds great for both movies and music. The ability to inexpensively expand it and use it as a smart speaker are practical extras.

Editor's recommendations

22 Apr

Blog

NieR Replicant Review: As Flawed and Engrossing as Ever

April 22, 2021
Posted by Samson

Nier replicant

Nier Replicant Ver.1.22474487139 … – PlayStation 4

"NieR Replicant is still the same flawed game it was in 2010, but a much-needed touch-up makes its fantastic story shine."

Fantastic story
Fully developed characters
Exciting new content
The much-needed visual upgrade

Repeated struggle
Outdated gameplay
Blunt side quests

NieR Replicant ver.1.22474487139… tries to rewrite history. The action RPG is an updated version of NieR, a cult PlayStation 3 game that received a lukewarm reception when it launched in 2010, the game that was doomed to dark.

That is, if the players can overcome the problems they had with it. That's the tricky thing about remakes of this type. In a way, they're tied to fate. The new version brings updated graphics and gameplay improvements, but it's still the same PS3 game with all of its strengths and flaws kept true to the original.

While the update can't solve basic design issues, the much-needed improvements from NieR Replicant finally let the fantastic story of the original game shine. Players may rush for a challenging experience to get there, but few games are as narratively bold and mystifying as this one.

A haunting journey

The opening sequence of NieR Replicant is about as arresting as it comes. Players are instantly introduced to an apocalyptic environment filled with jumbled shadows, creepy beings that look like they're half torn out of reality. We meet a panicked boy who tries to protect his sick little sister while the two are in a shabby building. There's a massive battle in which the hero quickly shoots to level 30, followed by a deeply disturbing leap in time over 1,300 years into the future.

This is just the beginning of a haunting story that continues to fascinate. Over a century later, the same brother and sister live and survive in a humble village founded long after the collapse of humanity. The game begins by finding the boy to track down magical spells called Sealed Verses that can cure his sister's mysterious illness but barely scratch the surface. It's a completely unpredictable story that is a page-turner for video games. The less you know about it, the better.

A notable change here is that NieR Replicant uses the protagonist from the Japanese version of the game. When NieR originally started in the US, the optimistic brother turned into a gruff old man who wanted to save his daughter. The change makes a huge difference. The hero feels more vulnerable and it makes the journey more personal.

Perhaps NieR was barely ahead of his time, but like his hero, the story has not aged a day all these years later.

The story is striking, but it's the characters that give it soul. Along the way, players encounter companions like Grimoire Weiss, a presumptuous, sentimental book, and Kainé, a warrior with a mouth as fierce as her blade. Each character receives a fully realized arc on the way to the true end of the game. Like NieR Automata, the game features multiple endings that require players to repeat parts of the game multiple times. It's an unnecessarily demanding barrier that is sure to put some off, but I was more than ready to move on to achieve a closure that is really paying off.

There's an alternate timeline where NieR is the early 2010 PS3 release, which raises the bar for video game narratives than it did for 2013's The Last of Us. Both titles have strong character work and use similar ones Tricks to hide information from players. Perhaps NieR was barely ahead of his time, but like his hero, the story has not aged a day all these years later.

Bronze, not platinum

If it looks like I've spent a lot of time praising the story, it's because the gameplay is where there are problems. Most importantly, it was not developed by PlatinumGames, which NieR Automata managed. Those hoping for the same action the studio is known for will be disappointed with the downgrade.

The combat systems are similar on their surface. It is an action role-playing game that has players with oversized weapons hacking through shades. The difference is that NieR Replicant's swordplay is a one-button affair. Hacking involves pressing the attack button over and over while playing the same combination. It's a repetitive system that makes some of the game's later fights feel like they're being conducted on an autopilot.

Nier replicant

The fight has been redesigned for the game to feel a little closer to NieR Automata, but there's only so far that it can go. Although it feels more fluid, small changes can hide not fully cooked actions that barely change over the course of 30 hours.

A magical system helps solve some of these problems. Players can assign four different spells to their controller's triggers, adding a little more versatility and range to the battles. Basic actions like dodging and blocking also need to be mapped to buttons. Therefore, players should adapt their toolset to suit their play style. The game's "word" system is a nice touch too. Defeated enemies can drop a magic word randomly that can be applied to any weapon or ability. These can increase attack power, add effects to weapons and much more. Customizing a loadout requires more brainpower than actually using it.

The fight has been redesigned for the game to feel a little closer to NieR Automata, but there's only so far that it can go.

The mileage will vary here. The story is awesome, but is it worth fighting your way through pesky battles to get there? That depends on how much the narrative and characters appeal to players. I was invested enough to get my way, but I'd be lying if I said I didn't rush through battles to get to the cutscenes.

Replicate the original

When it comes to remakes (or "version upgrades" as director Yoko Taro calls it), NieR Replicant brings a lot to the table. The most important thing is to reconnect the 2010 game with its superior sequel. NieR and Automata have long felt completely separate, but the new pass unites them. The visual boost, fantastic re-recorded music, and combat improvements finally make these games feel like they are part of the same universe.

At least NieR Replicant makes it easier to put up with the mistakes with a more modern paint job that is easy on the eyes and ears.

Replicant is also bringing some new content to the game, which is a welcome addition. There's a new quest that blends in seamlessly with the story, adding more depth to an underdeveloped area of the original (but also adding length to the repetitions required). There's one more piece of new content that is downright spectacular. I'm not going to spoil the fun, but it sure is the main selling point for NieR fans hungry for deeper lore.

Nier replicant

All of the new aspects are great, but there are a lot that can't be fixed. Side quests are mostly lifeless retrieval missions, the story tirelessly takes players into the same handful of areas, and the game's female lead is still wearing incredibly revealing lingerie that barely qualifies as clothing.

Some of the issues people had with the original game are actually fixed here because they're too embedded in the core design. Anything but a remake in the style of Final Fantasy VII could not have completely rewritten history. Perhaps NieR is a phenomenal work of storytelling trapped in a mediocre action RPG. Nevertheless, at least NieR Replicant makes it easier to endure the mistakes with a more modern paint job that is easy on the eyes and ears.

Our opinion

NieR Replicant ver.1.22474487139… confirms that the original NieR was way ahead of its time and way behind it. The story is incredibly compelling and only gets better with new content added. On the other side of the coin, the repetitive gameplay feels dated, even by 2010 standards. Those who push their way through the 30-hour adventure will be rewarded with a daring odyssey. In hindsight, it may even outperform NieR Automata, but it's hard to blame someone who'd rather watch everything on YouTube than play it for themselves.