The BRAVEN 570 HD Wireless Speaker

Finding the perfect speakers to be in your home or your favorite travel buddy takes a lot of trial and errors. I have found quite a few that would be able to satisfy the audiophile in me but I guess it sometimes fall short on one category, and that's the number of hours that these speakers work. I have bluetooth speakers that work for about an hour, I have one that works around 4-6 hours but I have never even imagined that there would be something like the BRAVEN 570 HD Wireless Speaker. The promise? 10 hours. Is that even possible (I had to ask)? We went and tested this promising product for a few days. 

Just like it's predecessors, this is primarily a Bluetooth speaker. I didn't know until I read the fine print that this is also going to function like a power bank. I think it's also the same reason why it can last a long time, because you can use the device batteries to also charge your cellphones and small gadgets that run on the same specifications. 

Unboxing the BRAVEN 570 HD Wireless Speaker

The black box contains enough cardboard pieces to protect the metal finish of the speaker. It fits the purpose of at least getting the device to you without scratches or dents but with the speaker's build, it'll be pretty hard to do that for real.

The pack also contains two cords. One is the twin 3.5 mm jack, used probably to have another speaker connected to it. The other is for charging the device, from USB to mini jack that you can also use to charge phones with the same port. Since there is a USB port on the BRAVEN 570 HD Wireless Speaker, you can use your own Lightning cable for Apple devices like what I'll be using in this instance.

Braven's Top View

Braven's Back View

Braven's Front View

As for the Braven 570's build, it's really awesome. Now you might think it's weird to have the speakers open in two directions, but if you've got real sound going out of the unit, you don't need the extra bass and go for a louder volume... that's exactly what you'll get from this unit. I tried both music and podcasts so I could differentiate what I'm going to hear in vocals and in different genres of music. If you are looking for deep bass, this wasn't made for that. This BRAVEN 570 HD Wireless Speaker is for REAL non saturated music, no modifications, nothing but the clear music as it should be. Purists who prefer it this way will super like it. As for the loudness, I've reviewed smaller ones before and this packs it like twice of those. After all, this is where that 6 watts of power goes.

Pairing the BRAVEN 570 HD Wireless Speaker was also easy. Just turn on the notch found in the side of the device. You will hear an ascending tone on the speaker itself. Go to your phone and open it's bluetooth capability, it should see the BRAVEN 570 HD Wireless Speaker on the list of devices.

Just go ahead and click on the BRAVEN 570, then wait for it to connect.

There's also a blinking blue light on the device signifying the attempt on pairing. It only lasts a few seconds so make sure you do not miss the exact time pairing with it. This could also be the way to pair with it securely because if it stands around like other devices, other people might connect with it just for fun. That might ruin your listening experience, and it was cool they only do it for a few seconds for discovery alone.

Talking about controls, the ON/OFF switch, the bluetooth pairing button, the mini USB port, the 3.5mm input jack and the +/- Volume controls looked very apt for the unit. On the other side, the USB port (for output), the 3.5mm (also for output so you can connect another speaker), and the charging button if you have a phone attached. 

Using the Bluetooth connection, I was already satisfied with the output of this BRAVEN 570 HD Wireless Speaker and it could still work in my room which was more than 10 feet away from it. I don't have that much interference in my house aside from the router and it all works like it should.

I also used the cable that came with the package to connect my iPhone 5S powered by SMART to play podcasts straight from the internet and it was amazing. I think it even sounded more crisp with the cable, but even so, either way, they all work so good on talk shows, and HD music on Deezer Premium.

The BRAVEN 570 HD Wireless Speaker also has an output 3.5mm port so if you have another BRAVEN 570 HD Wireless Speaker or other brands that have that input, you can daisy chain it for an even louder set. Heck, you can have a party indoors or outdoors with friends and family with just this and your iPhone. I'm sure that will be so good if you want to carry around something, not those huge ones that you have to rent and pay thousands of pesos for when you can get the best in this small device.

The BRAVEN 570 HD Wireless Speaker also can be used as a Speakerphone. If you're in a group and want the whole place to listen in to meetings, parties where you want the ones abroad to join you, this is a great solution. Aside from that, it's got this USB port on it that you can use to charge your cellphones. Since it's got around 10 hours of battery life, lending a few thousand mAh's for your drained phones won't hurt. It can also greatly work in emergencies when you can't find a power source during weather disturbances like this typhoon weekend.

The new BRAVEN 570 HD Wireless Speaker works as it should and has a lot of other things in its sleeve to impress you more. It works as a speakerphone, a power bank and plays real sounding music for hours of fun with your family. It's also available in Digits Trading branches nationwide. All you need to do is go to their stores and test it out. Whatever is your budget, they've got other Braven models you can choose from to fit that. Don't forget to check out their showrooms because they would gladly assist you in choosing the right stuff that would also fit your personality. These are lifestyle products after all. As for me, I am happy with the BRAVEN 570 HD Wireless Speaker. I held a party yesterday at home using this, fits like a glove! If you haven't thought about that perfect Christmas gift yet for your man, this would be highly suggested!

For more information about their stores:

Digits Trading

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Visit their official website

http://www.braven.com/

Don't Worry, SMART and SUN Cellular is Ready!

Hey Sun and Smart subscribers! This is good news for you! They know you're a little worried about cellphone and Internet services this weekend because of Typhoon Hagupit/Ruby which is said to arrive for landfall this Saturday. This post is to let you know that you don't have to worry too much because they are ready in case there would be problems maintaining communication services when it strikes close to home this weekend. They have plans already in place to make sure they would be able to quickly respond should there be need to restore facilities if they get affected. The equipment and personnel are on standby in case areas like North and Southern Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao get beaten up by the Super Typhoon. You must make sure though to charge your batteries so you won't run out of juice when the time comes. Smart and Sun will also be putting up generator sets, batteries so your cell sites won't go off all of a sudden. They'll also be having free call and charging services in strategic locations nationwide. Rest assured, Smart and Sun will be at their best to respond to your needs when the time comes.

Tips:

1.) Make sure to charge your batteries, your emergency equipment and your powerbanks. It might take around 3 days before the typhoon passes, so make sure we have enough juice to last that long.

2.) Conserve your batteries. Don't use data or calls unless you really need it. Text messages consume less power. That's a better alternative.

3.) Store important numbers on your phone, like hospitals, firefighters, your local barangay and NDCC. Include a hard copy in case you run out of batteries.

4.) If you can, get transistor radios. Know where the nearest evacuation areas are in your neighborhood so if your house gets in danger, you know where to go. 

5.) Keep dry. Not all gadgets don't work under water, wrap it up with cling wrap and make sure you have clean dry clothes as well.

6.) Pray. Nothing is impossible. We would all be safe if you pray hard :) 

Thanks to our friends from Smart and Sun for taking time to inform us of the state of communication structures. I feel safe and relieved now that my Smart line will work when I need it most. 

For more information about their services:

Smart Communications

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Visit their official website

http://smart.com.ph/

Come Out For Love: The 2014 Metro Manila Pride March

We all have LGBT friends. Yesterday when I was in an event, I heard from a man seating in front of me reading aloud a text message he received anonymously, apparently containing some really ridiculous notions about the PINK Film Festival Trinoma, Quezon City and how it will turn the place into Sodom and Gomorrah if they don't stop it from showing films that contain things discussing LGBT on it. They've been fighting for years now, even straight people are supporting them, because ultimately they are seeing them as people, without prejudice to what color, shape or form they are. 

Unfortunately, there are still ignorant ones who ridiculously think spreading hate is the solution. We all want to fight for equality in the workplace, at home, and community - and that goes the same with the LGBT sector, they don't want special treatment, they just want what you and I are getting. Yesterday, whilst some government officials were undergoing HIV tests - it kind of struck a cord on me to think how many people are still getting that stigma, either from what they learn from backward thinking folks, or merely not understanding the whole problem at hand. There are a lot of things that contributed to HIV but most of it is because of unprotected thingy. 

Tonight, while I was going home from watching Chicago, I met a friend while heading to my place. He's part of the LGBT community and is part of the organizers of this year's pride march. Their theme this year is "Come Out For Love: The 2014 Metro Manila Pride March" and they're in need of support from everyone, LGBT or not, crooked or straight, to head onto Malate in Manila at 2PM. Please register at their event page here and invite yourself, your peers to support the cause. Their build up will start at 2PM and the march will start at 4PM today December 6 (TYPHOON OR NOT, RAIN OR SHINE, THEY HAVE A RAINBOW). All they need is your presence and support. A worthy cause I might add. Think of your friends, all those who have been part of the LGBT community and have done a great deal of good for you. This might be a nice way to give back. 

For more details please check their Pride March 2014 details here.

For more information about their event:

Metro Manila Pride

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Visit their official website

http://metromanilapride.com/

Sun Cellular Rolls Out "Sun Shop on Wheels"

Look at what just rolled in your neighborhood. For the love of giving you the best deals and affordable rates, Sun Cellular just added another way to get them closer to home that you ever think possible. From now on, you'll be seeing the Sun Shop On Wheels popping up in strategic locations nationwide. They launched this in Eastwood a few days ago in a very grand way too. 

I haven't seen any rates as low as the ones seen in these Sun Shop On Wheels because they were almost literally giving away phones. I even found one that costs P1 (One Peso) if you get the Plan 200. That's almost as cheap as the load kids use in one month and once that they get the plan, it's almost free no?

Sure enough, people flocked to the shop and got those phones in a jiffy. Since it's in Eastwood city, they got the yuppie crowd and the people living in condominium units getting those offers like hotcakes in the morning. I also saw some internet packages with exclusive gadget deals like 52 hours internet on Alcatel Pop 73G Tablet on Plan 450 of if you prefer, there's the 79 hours Internet if you get the Plan 600 plus TV Link. Plus that afternoon, look at who manned the Sun Shop On Wheels!

Oh yeah! It's Solenn Heussaff!

Model, host and all around lovely girl, Solenn Heussaff took time and got so many people inside the shop. Heck when they bought new phones, it's but right to at least have someone memorable in selfies too.

Then when everyone thought the festivities were already done, tons of people clad in Yellow also roamed around the area and pumped up the volume. It was a flash mob!

It was awesome and I've also seen several people shocked when these guys and gals bursted into a frenzy with their crazy dance steps right in the middle of Eastwood City!

Then after that, a short awarding ceremony was done to the first few subscribers who signed up for offers in the first ever Sun Shop on Wheels. He's a pretty lucky guy because he got to be with Sun endorsers Saab Magalona, Lauren Young and Mikael Daez.

Not only that, these models also handed out free gadgets to the first subscribers as an added bonus treat. They're very lucky because I know some of these are very expensive too!

Congratulations to the winners!

Michelle P. Curran, First Vice President and head of Sun Cellular Data and International Services said “We are now making it easier for Filipinos to go connect with friends and loved ones and go online, anytime. Our newest broadband services complement the broad range of products and services now available in our Sun Shop On Wheels - ensuring a rich and fulfilling Sun Cellular experience for all our subscribers.”

So make sure you follow all their media channels below so you know when Sun Shop On Wheels will be in your neighborhood soon!

For more information about their services:

Sun Cellular PH

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Visit their official website

http://www.suncellular.com.ph/