Archive for the ‘Cameras’ Category

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this WEEK in TECH – a selection of interesting events

Sunday, October 14th, 2012

Here’s a selection of interesting tech events happening this week (14-20 October 2012). It is not an exhaustive list and represents only a sampling of events that gives a taste of the tech pulse in Singapore.

What are some of the more interesting tech events happening in Singapore?

What are some of the more interesting tech events happening in Singapore?

This week sees the continuation of buzz building up to the General Availability of Windows 8. Intel, Samsung, HP and Sony have already showcased their respective offerings. Next week, Microsoft will be releasing Windows 8 on 26 October 2012.

Audiophiles can look forward to the launch of Swiss Piega handmade speakers by Atlas Singapore, while photographers finally see the Lytro light field camera officially launched in Singapore.

The much anticipated Samsung GALAXY Note II and GALAXY Camera will be launched at the Ritz-Carlton; while BlackBerry and ZALORA join hands to present a fashion show inspired by the BlackBerry Bold smartphones.

On the enterprise side, Progress Software and NCS are talks about growth in big data and the realtime analytic industries, while DPM Teo Chee Hean opens Techventure 2012.

Finally, wrap up the week with a bit of fun and learning at Canon Imaging Academy, shooting out-and-about Singapore and learning about shooting stock photos along the way.

15 October (Sunday)

BlackBerry JamHack 2012

5-city, 3-day, 40-hour hackathon organised by 5 developer groups & communities in Asia Pacific, supported by RIM.

Culminates in App Pitches on the last day on 15 Oct.

Venue: Delhi, Bangalore, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Manila

15 October (Monday)

Realtime analytics for business

Progress Software and NCS talks about growth in big data and realtime analytic industries.

16 October (Tuesday)

Lytro launch

Official launch of the Lytro light field camera in Singapore.

Venue: Clarke Quay

17 October (Wednesday)

Samsung launch of GALAXY Note II and GALAXY Camera

Launch of Samsung’s latest products in Singapore.

Venue: Ritz-Carlton

17-18 October (Wednesday to Thursday)

Techventure 2012

This year’s theme, “Äsia.Innovation.Renaisance”, highlights the economic transformation in Asia and opportunities for businesses from technological innovation.

Venue: Marina Bay Sands

18 October (Thursday)

Fashionably Bold

BlackBerry and ZALORA collaborates on a fashion show inspired by the BlackBerry Bold smartphones.

Venue: 72-13 Mohammed Sultan Road

19 October (Friday)

Piega launch by Atlas

Swiss Piega launching a range of exclusive handmade speakers in Singapore.

Venue: Atlas Showroom @ Windstedt

20-22 October (Saturday to Monday)

Singapore iStockalypse

iStockphoto and Getty Images are partnering with Canon Singapore to organise this 3-day photo-workshop to shoot Singapore.

Theory on Saturday, followed by portfolio review on Sunday and out-and-about shooting on Monday.

Venue: Canon Imaging Academy

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Posted in Android, Audio, BlackBerry, Bold, Cameras, Canon, Event forecast, Events, Gadgets, Galaxy, HP, Intel, Microsoft, Notebooks, Phones, RIM, Samsung, Sony, Tablets, Windows 8 | No Comments »

New Olympus PEN E-PL5, STYLUS XZ-2 cameras and lenses for Photokina 2012

Monday, September 17th, 2012

Olympus has unveiled two new cameras and three new lenses for Photokina 2012 (18-23 September). At the same time, it is consolidating all its compact cameras under the new STYLUS branding.

None of the pricing is available yet.

Update (15 October, 2012):

The Recommended Retail Price of the Olympus PEN Lite E-PL5 has just been announced.

Option 1: Single Lens Kit (S$1,098)

  • Body (Silver, Black or White)
  • M.ZUIKO DIGITAL 14-42mm f3.5-5.6 IIR

Option 2: Double Zoom Kit (S$1,348)

  • Body (Silver, Black or White)
  • M.ZUIKO DIGITAL 14-42mm f3.5-5.6 IIR
  • M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 40-150mm f4.0-5.6 R
The new Olympus STYLUS XZ-2 with its selection of accessories. The PEN Lite E-PL5 has its own set of chic accessories.

The new Olympus STYLUS XZ-2 with its selection of accessories. The PEN Lite E-PL5 has its own set of chic accessories.

Photokina 2012 begins tomorrow and ends on Sunday. Below is a summary of the slew of cameras and lenses that Olympus has lined up for the biennial trade show in Cologne, Germany.

PEN Lite E-PL5 micro four thirds MIL camera
PEN Lite E-PL5 micro four thirds MIL cameraSkipping the inauspicious number “4” in the Japanese language, Olympus introduces the E-PL5, the successor to the E-PL3.Available in October 2012 in Silver, Black or White.

Features:

PEN Lite E-PL5 micro four thirds MIL camera

  • 16.05 megapixels
  • Live MOS Sensor
  • FAST AF
  • Touch AF Shutter
  • TruePic VI image engine
  • 12 Art Filters including new “Water Colour” filter
STYLUS XZ-2 compact camera
STYLUS XZ-2 compact cameraThe first member of the new STYLUS line, the XZ-2 is the successor to my favourite compact, the XZ-1.As the latest member of the STYLUS X series, the XZ-2 will be the flagship of the Olympus compact cameras.Available in November 2012 in Black.Features:

STYLUS XZ-2 compact camera

  • 12 megapixels
  • f1.8-2.5 bright lens
  • 4x Optical zoom
  • 28mm wide angle
  • Touch AF Shutter
  • Swivel screen
  • 11 Art Filters
  • Removable grip
  • Hybrid control ring around the lens
M.Zuiko DIGITAL ED 12mm f2.0 Limited Edition Black Kit Lens
M.Zuiko DIGITAL ED 12mm f2.0 Limited Edition Black Kit LensThis lens will have a limited worldwide release of 3,000 sets, with 50 allocated to Singapore.Available in early October 2012.Features:

  • Dual Super Aspherical lens element
  • ZERO (Zuiko Extra-low Reflection Optical) coating
  • Fine-textured metallic outer finish
  • Snapshot focusing mechanism for pan-focus shooting
M.Zuiko DIGITAL 17mm f1.8 Lens
M.Zuiko DIGITAL 17mm f1.8 LensWith product launch scheduled in the first half of 2013, the detailed product specifications are not determined yet.It will have the same snapshot focusing mechanism from the M.Zuiko DIGITAL ED 12mm f2.0 lens.It will also feature the MSC (Movie & Still Compatible) mechanism for fast, quiet autofocusing.
M.Zuiko DIGITAL ED 60mm f2.8 Macro Lens
M.Zuiko DIGITAL ED 60mm f2.8 Macro LensThis lens promises high resolution and contrast, as well as the ability to shoot close-up with 1x magnification.MSC mechanism for fast, quiet autofocusing.Dust and splash proof construction for secure shooting under poor conditions.Enhanced control with focus limit switch and indicator window.

Available from early October 2012.

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Posted in Accessories, Announce, camera flash, Cameras, Compact camera, Gadgets, Lens, MIL, Olympus, Photography, Specifications, STYLUS, Tech news, Tickers, Zuiko | 1 Comment »

New DSLR: Canon EOS 6D

Monday, September 17th, 2012

Following in the footsteps of the Sony Alpha SLT-A99 and Nikon D600, Canon has unveiled its full-frame DSLR. The 20.2-megapixel EOS 6D will be available in December and is priced at US$2,100 (S$2,570) for the body only.

Canon's new full-frame DSLR, the 20.2-megapixel EOS 6D.

Canon’s new full-frame DSLR, the 20.2-megapixel EOS 6D.

Full-frame DSLRs are in, going by the announcements and launch in the lead-up to Photokina in Cologne, Germany – which begins tomorrow and lasts until Sunday.

After Sony announced its Alpha SLT-A99 (and fixed-lens compact CyberShot RX-1); and Nikon launched its D600 last week, Canon has announced today its new full-frame shooter – the Canon EOS 6D, which will be available in December.

All the new Sony and Nikon full-frame cameras above have 24.3 megapixels. The Canon EOS 6D, which can be considered as the 60D with a full-frame sensor shoots 20.2 megapixels and is priced at US$2,100 (S$2,570).

Price of the Canon EOS 6D with EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USZ zoom kit lens is $2,899 (S$3,545).

Keep an eye on this space for more details.

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Posted in Announce, Cameras, Canon, DSLR, EOS, Gadgets, Opinion, Photography, Prices, Specifications, Tech news, Tickers | No Comments »

New DSLR: Nikon D600

Thursday, September 13th, 2012

Nikon has launched its latest DSLR: a full-frame shooter that fills the gap between the recently-released D800 and the DX-format D7000.

The FX-format D600 has a 24.3-megapixels sensor and will be available from 18 September for S$3,249 (body only).

Nikon D600 was launched in Singapore. Full-frame 24.3 MP. S$3,249 from 18 September.

Nikon D600 was launched in Singapore. Full-frame 24.3 MP. S$3,249 from 18 September.

The Nikon D600 is targeted at the serious photography enthusiast upgrading to an entry-level full-frame camera.

Full-frame digital SLR cameras excel over other digital cameras equipped with smaller sensors, especially under challenging low-light conditions and where the wider angle of view is critical for shooting scenarios such as landscape and architectural photography.

Equipped with the heart and technology of its higher-end siblings (the D4, D800 and D800E), the D600 is more affordable and has a similar ergonomics and layout of controls as the D7000 to make the transition easier for the photographer making the cross-over.

The D600 has the same EXPEED 3 image-processing engine as the D4 (S$9,799) and D800 (S$4,488), and sports the following features:

  • an optical viewfinder with 100% frame coverage
  • Full-frame mode: 24.3 megapixels
  • DX-format crop mode: 10.5 megapixels
  • a magnesium-alloy weather-sealed body for dust and water-resistance
  • 3-D axis tracking with 39 focus points
  • built-in automatic HDR capturing/processing
  • time-lapse video function
  • dual SD memory card slots
  • ISO range from 100-6,400, expandable to 50 (Lo-1) and 25,600 (Hi-2)

The Multi-CAM 4800FX AF-sensor module of the Nikon D600 utilises 39 focus points.

The system also places an emphasis on the human face, working in conjunction with the Advanced Scene Recognition System to provide accurate face detection even through the optical viewfinder.

The camera also offers seven cross-type sensors that are fully functional when using super-telephoto NIKKOR lenses and teleconverters (2.0x) with an aperture value up to f/8.

This is useful for those who need extreme telephoto focal lengths for sports or wildlife.

Nikon D600, entry-level full-frame DSLR.

Nikon D600, entry-level full-frame DSLR.

The Nikon D600 also features a precise Scene Recognition System that analyses detailed scene brightness and colour information acquired from the 2,016-pixel RGB sensor.

The information is then applied to autofocus, automatic exposure, i-TTL balanced fill-flash, and white balance control, all to achieve detailed and balanced images.

For storage, the Nikon D600 has dual card slots for SD cards, and offers users the ability to record backup, overflow, RAW/JPEG separation, and the additional option of shooting stills to one and video to the other.

The new Nikon D600 (left) sitting side-by-side with its higher-end sibling, the D800 (different lenses).

The new Nikon D600 (left) sitting side-by-side with its higher-end sibling, the D800 (different lenses).

Cinematic HD Video

When it comes to recording HD video, users have the choice of various resolutions and frame rates, including full HD 1080 at 30/24p utilising the Nikon D600‘s entire full-frame sensor, and HD 720 at 60/30p.

Nikon D600
Megapixels 24.3 megapixels
Sensor FX-format CMOS (full-frame)
Image processing engine EXPEED 3
ISO 100-6,400 (Expanded: 50-25,600)
Burst mode 5.5 fps
LCD 3.2″, 920k dots, TFT colour
Movie Full HD (1080/30p)
Size /mm 141 x 113 x 82
Weight 760 g
Price S$3,249

By utilising the B-Frame data compression method, users can record H.264/MPEG-4 AVC format video with optimal size and quality for up to 29:59 minutes per clip (normal quality).

The Nikon D600 also enables users to use both compatible FX and DX lenses to shoot HD movies.

The FX-based movie format makes full use of the large image sensor and offers a shallow depth-of-field with an emphasis on background-blur characteristics while the DX- based movie format is optimal for recording movies and bringing subjects closer (1.5X) when lenses with short focal lengths are used.

For professional and broadcast applications that call for outboard digital recorders or external monitors, users can stream an uncompressed full HD signal directly out of the camera via the HDMI port.

The Nikon D600 is also equipped with an audio monitor port for headphones to be used.

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Posted in Cameras, DSLR, Events, Gadgets, Launch, Nikon, Photography, Prices, Specifications, Videocams | 1 Comment »

New DSLR: Sony Alpha SLT-A99

Wednesday, September 12th, 2012

Sony’s new A-mount flagship 35mm full-frame camera debuts Dual AF System and pro-style video features.

The 24.3-megapixel Translucent Mirror camera will be available in the Asia Pacific from early November 2012.

As the eagerly awaited successor to the flagship full-frame A900 traditional DSLR, the new A99 is the first Translucent Mirror camera from Sony to feature a full-frame 35mm image sensor.

As the eagerly awaited successor to the flagship full-frame A900 traditional DSLR, the new A99 is the first Translucent Mirror camera from Sony to feature a full-frame 35mm image sensor.

As the eagerly awaited successor to the flagship full-frame A900 traditional DSLR, the new A99 is the first Translucent Mirror camera from Sony to feature a full-frame 35mm image sensor.

Sony Alpha 99
Megapixels 24.3 megapixels
Sensor Exmor CMOS (full-frame)
Image processing engine BIONZ
ISO 100-25,600 (Expanded: 50-25,600)
Burst mode 6 fps full res
LCD 3″, 1,229k dots, TFT Xtra Fine colour
Movie Full HD (1080/50p)
Size /mm 147 x 111 x 78
Weight 733 g
Price TBA

The full-frame sensor’s resolving power is enhanced by a newly developed separate multi-segment optical low-pass filter.

Bionic BIONZ

Assisted by an all-new front-end LSI, the BIONZ engine processes massive amounts of image signal data from the Exmor CMOS Sensor at very high speeds.

Together with a powerful new area-specific noise reduction (NR) algorithm, this achieves a 14-bit RAW output, rich gradation and low noise.

Saturation signal volume has been increased more than twofold. With its expanded receptor surface, its sensitivity is now 1.5 times more, while the random noise is cut by half compared to A900.

BIONZ engine on front-end LSI

BIONZ engine on front-end LSI

The expanded ISO range of 50-25,600 (equivalent to nine stops), is provided by the BIONZ image processor.

With a burst mode of up to 6 frames per second (fps) at full resolution, the A99 can shoot 10 fps in Tele-zoom high speed shooting mode.

Maintaining the focus

The 19-point AF system with 11 cross sensors is complemented by a multi-point focal plane phase-detection AF sensor. With 102 AF points, this additional AF sensor overlays the main image sensor.

24.3 MP full-frame Exmor CMOS sensor

24.3 MP full-frame Exmor CMOS sensor

This Dual AF System, unique to Translucent Mirror Technology, permits ultra-fast, accurate autofocusing that maintains tracking focus even if the subject leaves the 19-point AF frame.

The A99 also debuts a new AF-D continuous autofocus mode for moving subjects, coping effortlessly with subjects traversing the focal plane.

As a further focusing refinement, a new AF range control function allows users to set the distance range recognised by the AF system.

This smart feature significantly aids operability if you’re focusing on distant sports action through a nearby wire mesh fence.

Movie making

The A99 offers full-frame Full HD 50p/25p progressive video recording to meet AVCHD Version 2.0 specifications.

The optional XLR-K1M adaptor kit adds a high-quality mono shotgun mic and pro-standard XLR connections for dependable audio acquisition.

The optional XLR-K1M adaptor kit adds a high-quality mono shotgun mic and pro-standard XLR connections for dependable audio acquisition.

As introduced on the A77, Full-time Continuous AF Movie allows smooth, non-stop tracking of moving subjects.

Other movie-oriented enhancements include real-time Full HD video output via HDMI, and uninterrupted ‘dual-card’ recording using both of the camera’s media slots.

During movie shooting, a silent new multi-controller is easily accessible via a dial on the front of the camera body.

Multi-controller dial

During movie shooting, a silent new multi-controller is easily accessible via a dial on the front of the camera body.

This allows smooth, silent adjustment of exposure compensation, ISO sensitivity and metering method, shutter speed, aperture and audio record levels during Full HD video capture.

Shooting stamina is tripled by partnering the camera with the new VG-C99AM Vertical Grip that houses up to three batteries in total.

Magnesium alloy panels

Magnesium alloy panels

It’s even possible to exchange batteries ‘on the fly’ without interrupting movie recording.

In addition to an audio level display and adjustable audio record levels, there is now a headphone jack for accurate in-the-field monitoring.

Handling

The XGA OLED Tru-Finder (EVF) offers 100% frame coverage, even when shooting with a DT lens (APS-C) that’s optimised for cameras with an APS-C sensor.

Improved sensor characteristics

Improved sensor characteristics

Angle of view is converted automatically for image recording and display.

This viewfinder is completely compatible with the APS-C format and displays scenes using the entire finder screen.

Complementing the Tru-Finder, there’s also a three-way tiltable 1229k-dot (VGA equivalent) XtraFine LCD with WhiteMagic technology to boost screen brightness in outdoor conditions.

The A99 claims to be the world’s lightest 35mm full-frame interchangeable lens digital camera, thanks to Translucent Mirror Technology.

Weather-resistant seals

Weather-resistant seals

High-rigidity magnesium alloy panels contribute to an extremely tough yet light (733g without lens and battery) design.

Weather-resistant seals protect against dust and moisture, while controls and buttons are ruggedised.

The camera’s stamina and reliability is underlined by a redesigned shutter block that’s tested to approximately 200,000 release cycles.

The camera can also be operated via remote PC connection. Supported functions include switching between still/movie shooting, plus automatic transfer of still images from camera to PC for enhanced studio workflow.

Sony's Translucent Mirror Technology enables the Dual AF system with AF-D continuous autofocus mode.

Sony’s Translucent Mirror Technology enables the Dual AF system with AF-D continuous autofocus mode.

Technical specifications for the Sony Alpha SLT-A99 can be downloaded here and viewed below.

(more…)

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Posted in Announce, Audio, Cameras, DSLR, Gadgets, Photography, Sony, Specifications | 1 Comment »

TODAY! Nikon COOLPIX L610 available in Singapore

Tuesday, September 4th, 2012

The Nikon COOLPIX L610 is now available for sale in Singapore (S$339).

Nikon COOLPIX L610 comes in black, red or silver.

Nikon COOLPIX L610 comes in black, red or silver.

The compact COOLPIX L610 was launched in Singapore less than two weeks ago, as one of six new cameras Nikon launched as part of its Autumn 2012 collection.

The Nikon COOLPIX L610 is available in Singapore today.

The Nikon COOLPIX L610 is available in Singapore today.

The L610 has 16 megapixels and 14x optical zoom from 25-350mm (35mm equivalent).

It is equipped with Target Finding AF, for optimal focus on a subject with the camera.

The camera records full-HD (1920 x 1080p/30fps) movies with stereo sound.

The Nikon COOLPIX L610 features 5 in-camera filter effects: Soft, Selective Colour, Cross Screen, Miniature Effect, Painting.

The L610 uses AA batteries and is available in black, red or silver.

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Posted in Availability, Cameras, Compact camera, COOLPIX, Gadgets, Nikon, Photography, Prices, Specifications | 1 Comment »

COMEX 2012 promotions: Olympus

Thursday, August 30th, 2012

Olympus will be at COMEX 2012 at Suntec Singapore at Hall 404, Booth 8205.

Click to view or download Olympus promotions during COMEX 2012. Caution: Large file (14MB PDF).

Click to view or download Olympus promotions during COMEX 2012. Caution: Large file (14MB PDF).

Check out Olympus promotions for its range of cameras. S$150 discount for its (super-)Tough TG-320 that was just launched this month (at S$348). You can get now get the waterproof (3m) and shockproof (1.5m) adventure camera for S$198.

“日本相机制造商Olympus正参展COMEX 2012。其展览亭位于404展览厅，8205号展览亭。多款相机都有相当大的折扣。刚出炉的防岁水防撞Tough TG-320 由S$348 减至S$198，比较旧但还很实用的XZ-1由S$748减至S$498。Olympus 也出售录音机以及时髦的相机配件。” – 科技点心（微薄）

Another of my favourite is the XZ-1. It’s been around for a while now but its F1.8 bright lens is still alluring, especially with a discount of S$250 from S$748 to S$498, plus gifts worth S$175.

For those moving beyond compact cameras, check out the retro PEN-series and OM-D E-M5 mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras.

Olympus also sells voice recorders and very fashionable accessories for its cameras.

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Posted in Accessories, Brochures, Cameras, Compact camera, Events, Exhibition, Gadgets, Lens, MIL, Olympus, Photography, Prices, Promotions, Specifications | 1 Comment »

COMEX 2012 promotions: Canon

Thursday, August 30th, 2012

Canon will be at COMEX 2012 at Suntec Singapore at Hall 404, Booth 8101.

Click to view or download Canon promotions during COMEX 2012. (Caution: Large 9MB PDF file)

Click to view or download Canon promotions during COMEX 2012. (Caution: Large 9MB PDF file)

Check out Canon’s Comex 2012 promotions for its range of cameras and printers.

For cameras, there is the EOS range of DSLRs, Ixus and Powershot range of compact cameras; and for video, the Legria range of camcorders.

For printers, it has the PIXMA inkjets, as well as LaserShot and imageCLASS series of laser printers and multifunction devices.

Look out for discounted ink cartridges, batteries and scanners too.

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Posted in Brochures, Cameras, Canon, Compact camera, DSLR, EOS, Events, Exhibition, Gadgets, Inkjet, IXUS, Laserjet, MFC, Photography, PIXMA, PowerShot, Prices, Printers, Promotions, Scanners, Specifications | 1 Comment »

COMEX 2012 promotions: Sony

Thursday, August 30th, 2012

Sony will be at COMEX 2012 at Suntec Singapore at Level 3 Concourse Booth 3005; and Level 4, Hall 4, Booth 8210.

Click to view or download Sony's promotional flyers for COMEX 2012.

Click to view or download Sony’s promotional flyers for COMEX 2012.

Sony will be offering COMEX 2012 promotions for its wide range of products – from handycams, compact cameras, Alpha DSLRs, NEX MIL cameras, digital photo frames, to VAIO notebooks and Walkman mobile entertainment devices.

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Posted in Cameras, Compact camera, DSLR, Events, Exhibition, Gadgets, MIL, Notebooks, Prices, Promotions, Sony, Specifications, Ultrabooks, Walkman | 1 Comment »

COMEX 2012 promotions listing

Wednesday, August 29th, 2012

COMEX 2012 starts tomorrow at the Suntec Singapore. Here’s a listing of some of the promotions and flyers for the four-day IT exhibition.

COMEX 2012 is from 30 August (Thursday) to 2 September (Sunday), 12 noon to 9pm, at Levels 3, 4 and 6 of Suntec Singapore. Admission FREE.

COMEX 2012 is from 30 August (Thursday) to 2 September (Sunday), 12 noon to 9pm, at Levels 3, 4 and 6 of Suntec Singapore. Admission FREE.

Click on the links below to check out the deals and promotions from each brand. To see a consolidated list of postings related to COMEX 2012, click here.

You can also click on the COMEX 2012 button (that looks like the logo above, on every page of tech4tea.com during COMEX 2012) near the top of the sidebar on the right and below the search box.

Floor plans of exhibitors at Levels 4 and 6 of Suntec Singapore can be found here.

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Posted in Audio, Brochures, Cameras, Compact camera, Events, Exhibition, Gadgets, GPS, headphones, Promotions, Samsung, Sennheiser, TomTom | 32 Comments »

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