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Roksan Attessa Integrated Amplifier – quality and style

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The Roksan Attessa Integrated Amplifier gives a boost to your entire system with a variety of inputs, elegant good looks, and outstanding Roksan sound quality.

High-quality amplifier for all of your analog and digital sources
The Roksan Attessa Integrated Amplifier provides the ideal balance of excellence and adaptability. It features inputs for your whole system, including Bluetooth, four digital, and three analogue. Even a phono pre-amp for your turntable is integrated. The Attessa delivers smooth, room-filling power with 2 x 80 watts.Roksan Attessa Integrated Amplifier

Powerful sound
The Attessa’s 2 x 80 watt amp gives it the vibrant, dynamic sound for which Roksan is famous. High current circuitry, powered by a robust transformer, ensures that there is always enough on hand to enable you to hear musical peaks at their most dynamic. Look no farther if you want an exciting listen.

Wide range Bluetooth
Bluetooth is easily paired for simple streaming from your smartphone or other device. Bluetooth makes wireless music sharing simple, which is ideal for when friends and family are over and you want to share music. The standard range of the Roksan Attessa Integrated Amplifier is 15 meters, which is 50% longer than the average.
Digital inputs that are flexible
Up to four digital sources can be connected via the two coaxial and two optical digital inputs. Connect your CD player, Blu-ray player, gaming system, and TV for an audio update on your entire digital setup.Roksan Attessa Integrated Amplifier

MM phonostage is among the many flexible analogue inputs.
You can connect your other sources, including a CD player without a digital output and a cassette player, using the two RCA phono inputs that are available. The Phono input contains a built-in MM pre-amp for wide-ranging compatibility and an easy connection with a turntable. Pre outs let you to connect your preferred active subwoofer or upgrade to a more potent amp, providing yet another illustration of the Attessa’s extensive versatility.
The Attessa Streaming Amplifier is a “hub” product that covers the majority of requirements. A trio of analogue inputs (on RCA) are available on the amp, one of which is for an integrated MM phono stage. These inputs are in addition to Ethernet/Wi-Fi, aptX Bluetooth, and its BluOS connection. Additionally, there are USB and four digital ins (two coaxial and two optical). There is also a subwoofer/RCA pre-out connection. An HDMI eARC port for an easier connection to a TV is what other competitors offer.

Attessa IR Remote​
Attessa IR Remote​

When taken out of the box, it feels substantial and high-quality, which gives off positive first impressions. The huge volume knob has a wonderful, smooth motion and exudes assurance in the caliber of the building materials.
The free MaestroUnite app, which is available for Android, iOS, Windows, and Mac, made setup very quick and easy.
Simple pushes and turns of the front control knob are all it takes to choose from the several available inputs.

A seamless design
The Roksan Attessa Integrated Amplifier looks as seamless and streamlined as it sounds, with no visible aerials, a wraparound steel lid, and a front panel made of anodized aluminum. Its timeless design, which is available in black or silver finishes, melds seamlessly with its surroundings. Photo: Roksan

The Roksan Attessa Integrated Amplifier will put high-quality sound at the center of your system.Roksan Attessa Integrated Amplifier

Power Output into 8 Ohm

80W Both Channels Driven, Nominal (THD+N <0.1%)

Power Output into 4 Ohm

130W Both Channels Driven, Nominal (THD+N <0.1%)

Inputs (Digital)

Digital 1 (D1) – Coax SPDIF (up to 192kHz/24bit)
Digital 2 (D2) – Optical SPDIF (max. 96kHz/24bit)
Digital 3 (TV) – Optical SPDIF (max. 96kHz/24bit)
Digital 4 (CD) – Coax SPDIF (up to 192kHz/24bit)
Digital 5 (Bluetooth) – Bluetooth (48kHz/16bit)

Inputs (Analogue)

A1 – No signal sense
A2 – With signal sense & used for AV Mode
MM (Phono) – RIAA (equalised)

Outputs

1x pair Speaker binding posts (L&R)
1x pair of RCA Analogue (Pre-out/SUB)
3.5mm Stereo mini-jack headphone socket – 7.5Vrms drive suitable for all headphone types including high-impedance

Other

IEC mains power socket (3 pin)/Fuse holder
3.5mm mini-Jack – 12v trigger Input (On / Standby)
IR wired input 3.5mm jack

Other Interface – IR remote

Bluetooth

A2DP Audio profile /
Codecs – SBC, aptX & AAC
Bluetooth Range – 15m (typical)

Digital Coax Input

up to 24bit/192kHz PCM

Digital Optical Input

up to 24bit/96kHz PCM

MaestroUnite

System Creation and Control
Advanced System Setting
Over the Air Updates via Wi-Fi

Mains Transformer Rating

400VA

HiSuite app – must have for Huawei smartphone owners

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If you own a Huawei smartphone, you can use HiSuite app to manage it from your computer, giving you access to options for managing the apps and data you have installed.

In terms of smartphones, Huawei has just emerged as a powerful contender. It offers top-notch specifications for affordable costs, as well as top-notch software pre-installed on the phones. To manage your phone and the files you have on it, you’ll also need special hardware from Huawei. If you have a Huawei smartphone, HiSuite is one of the more crucial programs you’ll need to install on your PC.

It is made to provide you more authority over the data and applications on your phone. It works well for syncing files, contacts, and data on your phone in addition to other utility functions.

Connect Your Smartphone to a Computer
You must first connect your phone to your PC in order to use this software. You can accomplish it using either an USB cable or your phone’s WiFi connection.
If you choose the wireless connection, you could even be able to use an encrypted connection, which provides you a little bit more security.

Manage Files, Sync Contacts, and More
You will have more control over your files, contacts, and data thanks to HiSuite app. HiSuite will enable you to synchronize contacts between your phone and any other devices where you may have them stored.

Additionally, you’ll be able to sync other types of data from your smartphone, such calendars and events. Data can be moved between your tablet or smartphone and other devices. Of course, you can also easily transfer files across devices and carry out other computer-based file management functions.
All of this is necessary to get greater control over your smartphone and to be able to choose which functions should be updated frequently.

The HUAWEI HiSuite features:

Management of contacts
• Delete contacts
• Import and export contacts
• Manage contact groupsHiSuite

File management
• Manage files on internal storage and SD cards
• Export files to computers
• Import files to mobile phones

Application Management
• Check, install and uninstall applications, easy and fast.
• Single click to upgrade applications online.

Backup and recovery
• The data on devices can be backed up to the computer, including contacts, messages, applications, music, call history, emails, and schedule.
• It also supports transferring backed up data to devices.

System Recovery
• Restore the device to factory settings when its system crashes and won’t turn on

Gallery management
• Support multiple ways of viewing pictures
• Import and export pictures
• Set the picture as device wallpaper

Update
• Provide the function of Upgrade and Rollback for Huawei Mobile System
System Recovery
Upgrade your mobile phone system to the latest version easily.

Almost all Huawei smartphone owners must use HiSuite, which is one of the most important apps. They can use their smartphone to carry out a variety of chores thanks to it.

Download the HiSuite app HERE 

Yamaha AVENTAGE RX-A4A – this is a great receiver!

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This high-performance receiver has excellent A/V processing, strong amplification, and superior room calibration. It is also vibration-damped. Yamaha’s excellent control app for your phone or tablet makes using the Yamaha AVENTAGE RX-A4A very simple.
A 5.1.2 Dolby Atmos or DTS:XTM system, which consists of the conventional five speakers and subwoofer as well as two upward-firing or in-ceiling speakers for overhead effects, is best powered by the seven-channel RX-A4A.

The primary goal of Yamaha’s Aventage RX-A4A receiver is still to provide customers with the most adaptable home theater and multi-room options as well as the most immersive surround sound formats. The most recent Ultra HD TVs and Blu-ray players function flawlessly with this powerful receiver, which fully supports cutting-edge 8K and HDR+ (High Dynamic Range) video technology. However, their days seems to be numbered now that online streaming is a reality. With MusicCast wireless multi-room audio playback, you can stream music from a broad range of sources and listen to high-quality audio in your living room or any other room in your home.Yamaha AVENTAGE RX-A4A

You’ve decided to use five speakers in your home theater space? Drive speakers in a different room of the house, such as the kitchen or a bedroom, by using the other two power channels.
The RX-A4A was designed by Yamaha to work with cutting-edge video technologies. Its seven HDMI ports are all 4K/60Hz compatible, making them ideal for high-end sources like an Apple TV or a 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray player. (HDMI 2.1 functionality will be made available with a free firmware upgrade in the future.)
For iOS and Android tablets, the free AV Setup Guide app from Yamaha takes you through the connection process step-by-step. The straightforward yet sophisticated YPAO calibration system analyzes your speakers and the acoustics of your room using a setup microphone that is included in order to optimize the sound of your system. Your compatible mobile device becomes an incredibly practical Wi-Fi remote control thanks to the complete, customizable AV Controller app.

Simple Setup & Control: Yamaha’s free AV Setup Guide app for tablets running iOS and Android guides you into the connection process step-by-step. The simple and direct yet sophisticated YPAO calibration system analyzes your speakers and the acoustics of your area using a setup microphone that is included in order to optimize the sound of your system. Your compatible mobile device becomes an incredibly practical Wi-Fi remote control thanks to the complete, customizable AV Controller app.

High slew rate amplifiers are now available in this Yamaha AVENTAGE RX-A4A model. The dynamics of the final sound are directly correlated with an amplifier’s slew rate, which measures how rapidly the amplifier can react to a sudden shift in the input signal. The more exactly it can replicate and maintain pace with the original source, the more detail it can capture from the source, producing a sound that is more dynamic and powerful. To put things into perspective, this Aventage AVR model’s slew rate has doubled compared to that of the previous generation and is now the same as the MX-A5200 power amplifier.Yamaha AVENTAGE RX-A4A

Enjoy a wide range of musical genres.
There are many choices available for playing music as well. Through Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or Apple AirPlay 2, you may play music from your smartphone or tablet. Optionally, connect your turntable using the built-in phono input. Even high-resolution tracks can be played from a networked computer or USB thumb drive.
In addition, the Yamaha RX-A4A can play music wirelessly across many rooms when paired with other MusicCast components. photo: YAMAHA

The tipping point in this range of home theater receivers may just be the Yamaha Aventage RX-A4A. It comes in at a price that most of us can afford and has practically all the features a performance-minded consumer might desire. How admirable is that? It features a 7 channel amplifier, making it simple to use Dolby Atmos in a 5.2.2 home theater system. Additionally, it offers 8K capability, enhanced HDMI connectors, greater resonance control, improved YPAO sound field correction, and a striking new design. The RX-A4A home theater receiver should be at the top of your short list for all these reasons, in addition to Yamaha’s famous durability.

Yamaha AVENTAGE RX-A4A features:
Power and processing: A 7-channel amplifier with 110 watts per channel into 8 ohms at 0.06% THD and 2 channels driven with a high slew rate design for crystal-clear, reliable performance over a broad frequency range.
Dolby Atmos® and DTS:XTM processing for use with in-ceiling or “height” speakers to envelop overhead sound effects Dolby® and DTS® surround sound decoding
Without height speakers, Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization produces three-dimensional effects.
Cinema DSP HD3 adds richness and depth to music and movie soundtracks
Surround:AI™ technology analyzes your content and creates optimal surround effects in real time
H-shaped cross frame adds additional stability to the chassis while reducing vibrations
YPAO (Yamaha Parametric Room Acoustic Optimizer) automatic speaker calibration
included microphone helps fine-tune your system to best match your room’s acoustics
R.S.C. (Reflected Sound Control) with multipoint measurement helps deliver smooth, well-balanced surround sound across different seating positionsYamaha AVENTAGE RX-A4A

HDMI features:
HDMI 2.1 audio/video switching: 7 in, 3 out
all HDMI connections support 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz video content (with free future firmware update)
HDCP 2.3 technology ensures compatibility with Ultra HD sources and TVs
HDR-compatible for extended picture contrast and brightness with compatible TVs and HDR-encoded content
supports HDR10, HLG, and Dolby Vision®
HDR10+ enabled with free future firmware update

Input jacks
Analog Audio
( Audio x 4 (including PHONO)
Digital Audio
( Optical x 2 (Supported frequencies: 32 kHz/44.1 kHz/48 kHz/88.2 kHz/96 kHz)
( Coaxial x 1 (Supported frequencies: 32 kHz/44.1 kHz/48 kHz/88.2 kHz/96 kHz/176.4 kHz/192 kHz)
HDMI Input
( HDMI x 7
Other jacks
( USB x 1 (USB2.0)
( NETWORK (Wired) x 1 (100Base-TX/10Base-T)

Bluetooth version
( Ver. 4.2
Wireless output
( Bluetooth Class 2
Maximum communication distance
( 10 m (33 ft) without interference

Tips to Clean Up Your Old MacBook

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Your Apple Mac is made to work as efficiently as possible for many years after you buy it, but with time, you may notice a decrease in performance. How you treat your device and how frequently you use it will determine how much the performance changes. There are a few regular maintenance tasks you can perform to keep your laptop functioning as well as it did when it was brand-new and slow down its deterioration. We examine some quick techniques to clean up your old MacBook below.

How to Clean Up Your Old MacBook?

If you want to clean up your old MacBook, there are a few steps you can follow to do so:

  1. Start by backing up your data. This is important because it will allow you to restore any important files in case something goes wrong during the cleaning process. You can back up your data using Time Machine, iCloud, or an external hard drive.
  2. Once you have backed up your data, you can begin removing any old files and data that you no longer need. This might include old documents, applications, and downloaded files.
  3. After removing old files, you can use a disk cleaning tool to remove temporary files and other unnecessary data that has accumulated on your hard drive over time. Some common disk cleaning tools for Mac include CleanMyMac, Onyx, and DaisyDisk.
  4. Once you have cleaned up your hard drive, you can use a tool like CCleaner to clean up your system registry and remove any old, invalid entries. This can help improve the performance of your MacBook.
  5. Finally, you can use a tool like MacKeeper to scan your system for malware and remove any threats that might be present. This can help protect your MacBook from viruses and other malicious software.

Overall, cleaning up your old MacBook can help improve its performance and keep it running smoothly. It’s a good idea to do this periodically to make sure your Mac is running at its best.

Take Out Your Trash
You might believe that files have been deleted when you remove them on an Apple Mac, but this is not the case. When you delete files, they are transferred to your trash can, so they continue to take up space on your laptop. Due to this, it’s crucial to ensure sure items are truly gone by emptying your trash after removing them. Your MacBook’s performance may suffer if you don’t regularly empty the trash after removing files, especially if you’ve been doing a lot of file deletion.

clean old MacBook
photo: Pixabay

Delete old software
When was the last time you looked over the installed programs on your Apple Mac? You will have downloaded more applications over time as your Apple Mac becomes older. Many of these programs might not be necessary any longer; in fact, you might not even be absolutely sure they were on your laptop. As a result of each of these programs, your device will have less storage available to it, which will in turn slow it down. Go through them and get rid of anything you don’t need. You can always install them again if you need them.

Check your downloads folder
Everybody downloads files, but we never remove them from our downloads folder. The more often we do this, the more data they can store. This folder may become very cluttered over time, which will slow down your old Mac. Go through this folder, move the data you require to your documents, and then remove the rest. You might be surprised at the size of some of the files, so sort the files by size and delete the bigger ones first. Additionally, you might discover that you have a few copies where you downloaded the same thing more than once over time, wasting space.

Clean the outside of your Mac
Cleaning the outside of your Mac is an excellent idea in combination to cleaning the software. It may accumulate filth, dust, and dirt over time, which may enter the hardware and prevent it from operating as effectively as it should. Take your Mac, unplug it, and turn it off before cleaning it with a little damp cloth to do it right. A powerful chemical should not be added as it could harm your Mac. Rather, invest in a special cleaning that you spray over the cloth to prevent moisture from getting inside your gadget. To remove any internal dirt inside the pores, use compressed air in short bursts.

If your Mac is not currently up to date, it can make it much more susceptible to hacking and potential malware making its way onto your machine. Avoid this by ensuring you run regular updates to your machine, checking there is never anything that needs doing. While we’re all guilty of selecting the “update later” option, it’s important to get it done as quickly as possible to keep your machine safe and protected from any viruses. Even if no pop-ups occur telling you an update is required, be sure to do your own checks manually, including updating your browser as well as any applications you have on your machine.

These are just a few simple ways that you can clean up your Mac in order to make it work better moving forward. It is important to keep your device in the best condition possible so it will last longer and be more efficient when it’s in use.

Denon CEOL N10 – High Quality Compact stereo receiver

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There are numerous ways to access your favorite music with the flexible, small Denon CEOL N10 stereo receiver. With the FM tuner or the built-in CD player, you can go retro. Alternatively, you can use the Ethernet port on the back of the device or Wi-Fi® to connect to your home network and stream music from services like Spotify®, Deezer, TIDAL, or TuneIn internet radio. Bluetooth and Apple AirPlay 2 are additional options for wireless streaming.

The Denon CEOL N10 offers a standout feature in its user-friendly design. With its generously sized monochromatic OLED screen, it effortlessly presents essential track information, readable from several meters away. Complementing this, the spacious remote control boasts an intelligently organized layout.

The CEOL 10 is a sleek and compact device that could easily be mistaken for a petite CD player. Its front panel exudes simplicity, featuring an on/off button, a CD tray button, and a prominent display. Additionally, it offers a headphone output and a USB port for USB key playback. The glossy “piano lacquer” plastic top panel conveniently houses commonly used operational functions, sparing you the need to hunt for a remote control or mobile phone just to adjust the volume or switch tracks.

The rear of the device maintains the same straightforward approach, primarily consisting of a pair of pin connectors for speakers, although it’s worth noting that they do not accommodate “banana” connectors. Regrettably, there is no provision for a turntable input or HDMI input, but most TVs can be easily connected through one of the two optical digital inputs available. Furthermore, there’s a subwoofer output and a single analog input, which is somewhat surprising as it employs proper RCA connectors. While it’s possible that many Denon CEOL N10 buyers may be more accustomed to the 2.5mm mini-jack, it’s worth noting that some mistakenly believe that “aux” refers to this type of cable.

You may simply ask the RCD-N10 to play a particular song, playlist, or station by speaking into a device like the Google Home or an Amazon Echo Plus or Echo Dot.

Connect all of your devices, including your TV.
There are numerous inputs available on the Denon CEOL N10 for connecting A/V components. There are two Toslink digital optical inputs in addition to an RCA input for analog sources. Because the RCD-N10 provides a convenient way to amplify and enhance the sound coming from your TV, adding a little “oomph” to binge-watching movies and TV shows, one optical input is marked “TV.” Even your TV remote’s commands can be programmed to it.
Utilize HEOS to set up a wireless all-home audio system.Denon CEOL N10 stereo receiverThe Denon CEOL N10 may be quickly and simply included into a wireless multi-room audio system thanks to built-in HEOS technology. Use the free HEOS mobile app to individually control the speakers in each room while streaming music to HEOS wireless speakers and other HEOS-compatible devices.
Denon Sound Signature – Exceptional audio engineering using carefully chosen and well tested Hi-Fi components.

A great balance between multi-room speakers and the ideal stereo system is the Denon CEOL N10. You receive some of the sound quality from the full-fledged system as well as the flexibility and power options from the first. As long as you pair the CEOL N10 with some quality speakers (speakers must be purchased separately). Although there are restrictions on effect and nuance, you will rapidly question if you could have been satisfied with less as the second facility in, say, the living room or the bedroom.
CEOL N10 product features:
50 station preset FM radio tuner with 65 watts x 2 into 4 ohms for streaming music from services like Spotify®, Deezer Premium, TIDAL, or TuneIn.
With built-in dual-band Wi-Fi and built-in Bluetooth® for wireless music listening with smartphones, tablets, and compatible laptops, HEOS technology wirelessly connects compatible components for whole home audio.
You can stream directly from an iPhone® or iPad® using Apple AirPlay 2, and you can ask Siri to play Apple Music while using voice control with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. Convenient touch key control buttons are located on top of the device, and they also include a TV remote learning feature. photo: Denon

Denon CEOL N10 stereo receiver
Denon CEOL N10 stereo receiver

Denon CEOL N10 stereo receiver connections:
single analog stereo RCA input
dual Toslink optical digital inputs
Ethernet port for connecting to home network
one pair of binding post speaker outputs
one analog mono RCA subwoofer output
front-panel 3.5mm headphone output
front-panel USB port for playing music from a compatible thumb drive  Video: YouTube/Denon

 

Denon CEOL N10 Mini Hi-Fi System with CD Player and HEOS® Built-in specs:

High Quality Power Output 2 x 65 W
CD Compatibility: CD / CD-R/RW / WMA / MP3 Yes / Yes / Yes / Yes
Tuner: FM (RDS) / AM Yes / Yes
Network Audio Streaming Yes
Spotify Connect* / Tidal* / Deezer* / others * Yes / Yes / Yes / Yes
AirPlay 2 Yes
Internet Radio tunein
HEOS Multiroom and Streaming Yes
Voice Control – Works with Amazon Alexa Yes
Auto Power On by optical input signal Yes
TV remote learning Yes (update)
Bluetooth / aptX / NFC Yes / No / No
USB Audio (Front) / Made for iPod / Made for iPhone Yes / No / No
USB-A: DSD / WAV / FLAC / AIFF / ALAC 5.6 / 192 / 192 / No / 192
Ethernet / WiFi Yes / Yes
WiFi setup: WPS / WiFi Sharing Yes / Yes
Lossy Formats: MP3 / WMA / AAC Yes / Yes / Yes
Lossless formats: FLAC HD / ALAC / WAV / AIFF / DSD Yes / Yes / Yes / No / Yes
Gapless Playback Yes (FLAC, WAV, DSD)
Tone Control: Bass / Treble / Balance Yes / Yes / Yes
MaxxBass / MaxxTreble No / No
Auto Volume Adjust / Wide Sound No / No
Low Noise OELD display 3 line
Clock Yes
Sleep Timer Yes
Programmable Timer: Once / Daily Yes / Yes

Denon CEOL N10 stereo receiver price – £499.00

Number of channels 2
Freq. Response (Analog In) 20 Hz No 20 kHz
Signal to Noise Ratio (audio) 86dB
Total Harmonic Distortion (audio) 0.1(1kHz/5W/ 4 ohms)
Frequency Range FM 87.5 – 108 MHz
Signal to Noise Ratio (Mono/Stereo) FM 74/70 dB
Total Harmonic Distortion (Mono/Stereo) FM 0.3 / 0.4%

AutoHotkey application – a free, open-source scripting language for Windows

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Setting up hotkeys, automation tasks, and other scripting configurations using AutoHotkey helps you be more productive and make it simple to access your hotkeys.
Your keyboard’s hotkeys can be useful for a number of things. Hotkeys can help you save time whether you’re wanting to automate a process or just make life easier for yourself while working.

Additionally, having hotkeys might be very beneficial if you frequently perform monotonous chores that take a lot of time and are uninteresting.
AutoHotkey is one of the greatest tools available for creating hotkeys for various uses. You can use it to adjust your keyboard’s hotkeys for either personal or professional use.

As you may switch between multiple keyboard protocols to make the adjustments, you can customize your keyboard and other devices like a joystick or mouse.

AutoHotkey app
AutoHotkey app

Supports a variety of keyboards
You’ll be delighted to know that AutoHotkey is an extremely flexible application. It will function with a variety of keyboards and their operating systems, including ANSI 32-bit, Unicode 32-bit, and Unicode 64-bit.
You may also utilize the drag and drop support to make things simpler for you or install the compiler, which will assist you in writing scripts.

Easy to Use
It is intended for regular users. The majority of the activities in this application are quite simple to perform, yet you can develop scripts, which are thought to be a little bit more difficult.
It doesn’t take a genius to figure out how to create straightforward hotkeys, and you can utilize them in a variety of ways after that.

Alternately, you can write scripts, which are more effective for use in a variety of settings, including video games, software, and the workplace. The scripting language for this application is not very complex, so learning it won’t be difficult.

AutoHotkey, useful app for creating hotkeys. Since you don’t need to be an experienced user to create even more sophisticated scripts, it is simple to use and incredibly effective.

AutoHotkey is a free, open-source scripting language for Windows – download here

How do I get Spotify’s tracks that aren’t available?

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Depending on the permits from rights holders, the accessibility of music can change over time and between different regions. The good news is that Spotify adds new content every day, so if you can’t find what you’re looking for right now, keep checking back because it might show up (or come back).

You can use your Spotify app to play music files stored on your smartphone in addition to the over 40 million tracks available by Spotify (which is referred to as “local files”).
You must use the desktop app to import your local files to Spotify.

  1. Click the arrow in the top-right corner of the desktop app and select Settings.
  2. Scroll down to Local Files.
  3. Any files in My Music and Downloads are automatically selected. Switch off any sources you don’t want Spotify to access.
  4. Click ADD A SOURCE to select another folder.

    Spotify
    photo: Pixabay

Supported file types:

  • .mp3
  • .m4p (unless it contains video)
  • .mp4 (if QuickTime is installed on your computer)

If you have Premium, here’s how to access the local files on your mobile device:

  1. Add the files to a playlist.
  2. Log in on your mobile or tablet using the same WiFi network as your desktop app.
  3. Select the playlist containing the local files.
  4. Switch on Download.

Gigabyte M28U monitor – great choice for 4k UHD with 144Hz

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A fantastic monitor Gigabyte M28U, with a 28-inch, 4k IPS panel, outstanding response time, very fast refresh rate…
With little input lag, a quick response time, and a wide range of gaming features, it provides a fantastic gaming experience.
It’s also excellent for office use because of the wide viewing angles and remarkable text clarity provided by the high pixel density.
Given that it is among the first monitors on the market to offer HDMI 2.1, it is a fantastic option for 4k @ 144Hz gaming on the newest consoles.
Every overdrive mode has some overshoot, thus it is not without problems.
Additionally, due to its poor black uniformity and low contrast, it doesn’t appear well in a dark environment.Gigabyte M28U monitor

The build quality of the Gigabyte M28U monitor is generally good.
It resembles other M Series monitors, such as the Gigabyte M32Q, quite a bit. Despite being entirely plastic, it feels solid. Even though the shiny back area is prone to collecting dust and fingerprints, you hardly notice it.
The stand is simple to adjust, and the bezels appear sturdy with no flex.
Unfortunately, if the height is increased past halfway to the maximum, the stand tilts quite a bit. As with most LG displays, the joystick button on the monitor’s back can be used to control the OSD. There is also a button specifically for the KVM switch.

KVM feature allows you to control multiple devices via one set of keyboard, video and mouse. With our exclusive KVM button, you’ll find switching devices cannot be any easier!

The Gigabyte M28U has good horizontal viewing angles, as you’d expect from an IPS monitor.
Even at a wide angle, colors are correct, however at a moderate angle, the gamma shifts and the image becomes washed out.
If you like to sit near to the screen or share it with someone else, this won’t be evident during usual use. Video: YouTube/AORUS

The performance of the Gigabyte M28U’s vertical viewing angle is nearly identical to that of its horizontal viewing angle.
At a wide angle, colors are correct, but at a moderate angle, gamma shifts and brightness fades.
The color volume on the Gigabyte M28U is outstanding in SDR. Although it almost completely fills the sRGB color space, the inability to render highly saturated dark colors due to the low contrast ratio.Gigabyte M28U monitor
The Gigabyte M28U monitor delivers an excellent gaming experience. It has an outstanding response time and a great selection of gaming features, including support for variable refresh rate technology (VRR). It has HDMI 2.1 bandwidth, making it a great choice for next-gen console gamers. Input lag is also really low, but you need to make sure it’s updated to the latest firmware. The overdrive settings are a bit strange, too, as there’s noticeable overshoot in every mode.
The Gigabyte M28U handles gradients really well.
Darker colours have a little bit of banding, but typical content doesn’t show it until you really seek for it.

Gigabyte M28U monitor – Excellent for offices
The huge, high-resolution screen offers exceptional text clarity and has wide viewing angles, making it ideal for screen sharing with coworkers.
Glare won’t typically be an issue because of its great peak brightness in SDR and good reflection handling.
It’s a great option if your work necessitates correct color representation as well because it offers fantastic accuracy right out of the box, amazing gradient management, and superb gray uniformity. The stand’s poor ergonomics result from its inability to swivel or rotate into a portrait configuration.
Gigabyte’s M28U monitor is excellent for watching videos.
Wide viewing angles and a big, high-resolution screen make it easy to share your screen with friends while watching high-definition videos.
Glare won’t be a concern for the majority of users due to its outstanding peak brightness in SDR and good reflection handling.
However, because of its poor local dimming functionality and low contrast, it is not as suitable for night-time watching movie.  photo: Gigabyte

Gigabyte M28U specs:

  • Panel Size (diagonal)
    28″ SS IPS
  • Display Viewing Area (HxV)
    631.928 x 359.78 (mm)
  • Panel Backlight/ Type
    Edge type
  • Display Surface(non-glare/ glare)
    Non-glare
  • Color Saturation
    94% DCI-P3/ 120% sRGB
  • True Resolution
    3840 x 2160 (UHD)
  • Pixel Pitch
    0.16 (H) x 0.16 (V)
  • Brightness
    300 cd/m2 (TYP)
  • Contrast Ratio
    1000:1
  • Viewing Angle
    178°(H)/178°(V)
  • Display Colors
    8 bits
  • Response Time
    1ms GTG / 2ms MPRT
  • Refresh Rate
    144Hz
    120Hz for Console Game
  • HDR
    VESA Display HDR400
  • Flicker-free
    Yes
  • HBR3
    Yes
  • Connectivity
    HDMI 2.1 (support 4K 144Hz 4:4:4 @ DSC enabled or 4K 144Hz 4:2:0) x2
    Display port 1.4 (DSC) x1
    USB Type-C x1
  • Earphone Jack
    Yes
  • Speaker
    3W x2
  • Unique Features
    OSD Sidekick
    Aim Stabilizer Sync
    Black Equalizer
    Dashboard
    Crosshair
    Timer
    Counter
    Auto-Update
    KVM
    6 axis Color Control
    Smart OD
  • USB port(s)
    USB 3.0 x3
  • Power Type
    Built-in
  • AC Input Max
    115W
  • Power Saving Mode
    0.5W
  • Power Off Mode
    0.3W
  • Voltage
    AC 100-240V ~ 50/60Hz
  • Tilt(angle)
    -5°~+20°
  • Swivel(angle)
    N/A
  • Pivot(angle/direction)
    N/A
  • Height Adjustment (mm)
    130mm
  • VESA Wall Mounting(mm)
    100*100mm
  • Kensington lock
    Yes
  • Phys. Dimension with Stand(WxHxD)
    636.5*534.2*193.6
  • Phys. Dimension w/o stand  (WxHxD)
    636.5*372.3*63.1
  • Box Dimension (WxHxD)
    890*510*148
  • Net Weight with stand (Esti.)
    6.93 (kg)
  • Net Weight without stand (Esti.)
    5.18 (kg)
  • Gross Weight (Esti.)
    9.7 (kg)
  • Accessories
    Power cable/HDMI cable/DP cable/USB cable/QSG/Warranty card

 

Blur the Background in Zoom

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The blur background feature can be set up before you start a Zoom call. On Zoom’s desktop app, you can click the Settings icon below your profile picture to get started. In the left sidebar, select Background & Effects.

Click the Virtual Background tab and select Blur. This will blur your background and you should be able to see a preview of the effect in the video preview pane above the Virtual Backgrounds tab. If everything went well, you should be in focus and a blurred image should be behind you.

Alternatively, you can choose a different virtual background such as San Francisco, Grass, or Earth. These are pre-installed and you can easily access them without any more steps. You also have the option of using a custom background image in Zoom.

In the same Virtual Backgrounds tab in Zoom settings, click the + icon on the right side, above the scroll bar. Now you can select either Add Image or Add Video, and choose a custom background for all future meetings.

Blur Background on Zoom
photo: Pixabay

It’s also worth noting that you can set up a blurred background or a virtual background even after starting a Zoom meeting. To test this out, you can open Zoom and click the New Meeting option. Once the meeting has begun, click the up arrow icon next to the Start Video button. Select Blur My Background to add a simple blur effect. You can also select the Choose Virtual Background option and add an image or a video background to your video call.

If you are using the Zoom mobile app, you can blur the background after starting a new meeting. On Apple devices such as iPhones or iPads, start a new Zoom meeting and tap the More button in the bottom-right corner. Select Backgrounds & Effects and tap Blur to blur your background.

You can also select other virtual backgrounds on this page or tap the + button to add a custom background via your mobile device.

On Android smartphones, you can start a new Zoom meeting and press the More button in the bottom-right corner. Then select Virtual Background and choose Blur. You can also pick one of Zoom’s default backgrounds or use the + button to add custom backgrounds.

If the effect doesn’t apply immediately, you can press the Stop Video button and tap Start Video to make it work.

Once you’ve exited a Zoom meeting on Android or iOS devices, you can tap the More button in the bottom-right corner of the app’s home screen and go to Meetings. Hit Keep Virtual Background For and select All meetings to retain your Zoom virtual background in all future meetings.

 

The Netherlands holds EU record for number of e-vehicle charging points

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According to data from the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA), half of all charging stations in the EU can be found in just two countries: the Netherlands and Germany. While Germany has a very respectable 60.000 charging points, the Netherlands is in the lead (by far), with over 90.000 chargers.

The Netherlands may be small, but it continues to lead the way when it comes to electric vehicles. ACEA points out that the Netherlands makes up less than 1 percent of the surface area of the EU, but that the Low Lands have as many charging stations as 23 of the member states combined.

Over the past several years, the Dutch government has invested millions into establishing a network of charging stations as electric vehicles have become increasingly popular amongst drivers in the Netherlands. Last spring, an international study found that the Netherlands was the world leader in electric vehicles.

e-vehicle charging
photo: Pixabay

EU countries with the most and least e-vehicle charging points

While significant progress has been made over the past several years, ACEA emphasises that much is yet to be done. “Up to 6,8 million public charging points will be required by 2030 to reach the proposed 55 percent CO2 reduction for cars – meaning that we need to see over 22 times growth in less than 10 years,” the association writes.

According to the data published by ACEA, the following EU countries are home to the most public charging points:

  1. The Netherlands (90,284)
  2. Germany (59,410)
  3. France (37,128)
  4. Sweden (25,197)
  5. Italy (23,543)

And the following five countries are home to the fewest:

  1. Cyprus (57)
  2. Malta (98)
  3. Lithuania (207)
  4. Estonia (385)
  5. Latvia (420)