Homebrew Version 1.4, Behold! The power of Cheese!

[Lex]

hello, got a pretty good night's rest, back and ready for action.

Pretty nice rounded wedge shape for the Accord. Well, ok anyway...

[Nick M]

Sarah and I are talking about getting a Wii next month.

I was thinking about a PS3 given it's Blue-Ray capability and BR's recent clinching of the market - but theres something about the interaction of the Wii with a bunch of people that seems fun.

Still planning on building a PC this summer too. Those will be my toys for the year.

[Alloroc]

Nick, you won't regret a PS3 and from all my friend's experiences you'll bore easily of the wii. That said, I've no experience of the wii at all.

So, I'm alive. I'd a nasty chill and felt cr*p. Still at home today but will go back in tomorrow.

That new accord is sweet. My buddy Dave is after one. It's due here in 09 with their amazing new diesel engine.

[Lex]

A "whacka whacka" Honda? Oh my, crazy. lol.

Nick, maybe it's really a Wiidding your getting. ;)

[Dougie085]

It's an ultra efficient diesel. They built it to exceed the US's diesel emissions for cars which are supposed to be the highest in the world. I'm wondering what kind of fuel economy it has :) Might be something to look into the way gas prices are going....then again might be time to start on something other then fossil fuels.

[Dougie085]

Trying to think of middle names... so far we like Chloe for a first name... So Chloe something Dale. Nothing is really clicking that I like much though.

[Lex]

yeah, actually I heard something about it, only in non US market so far I think. Diesel isn't much better priced, as it's oil based too of course...

Hmmm, I'll take a stab. (not sure on the valarie or is it valerie spelling?)

Chloe Valarie Dale

I started to sy Chloe Mia Dale

But not sure that flows right.

I think Valarie is a nice name, it actually could be chosen as a go by name just as eash as Chloe.

Chloe Rene' also could work.

[Dougie085]

Thinking I like Chloe Rosina (Roseina pronounced) Dale.

And an ultra efficient Diesel would be better because you should get something like 60+ mpg maybe more. The 95+ Jetta TDI got like 50mpg so I would think one thats made to be super efficient would be even better. Imagine if it got the fuel economy of a bike?

[dyazdani]

Bikes take too much human work though...

The Jetta diesel is great on fuel, but lower on power. Depends on what you want I guess. Our Passat gets decent mileage, I'm quite happy with it. My Porsche isn't so good though - does well on the highway but competes with large SUVs in the city.

[Lex]

It's what you like most that counts Dougie, well your wife. Your welcome for my attempts.

[Dougie085]

I meant like a motor bike. And I was referring to the new diesel possibly having as good of fuel economy as a bike.

Sorry Doug, Thanks I like those just were going for something a little less common. Still not sure we'll use Chloe even just haven't found anything we like better really. It's hard for me becuase I'm a person that believes a name can shape a personality.

[dyazdani]

Not all motor bikes are that great either. Mine wasn't worth a crap, not much different than the Passat.

[Dougie085]

Well the Japanese ones seem to be rather good. Honda, Yamaha and what not.

[dyazdani]

I had a Honda CBR600RR, great bike though not for the gas mileage. The cruisers do better than the sport bikes.

[Paul Wu]

I think the bio diesels would be an interesting way to go. I've now seen it done twice, once in the UK on Fifth Gear and once in the US on Mythbusters. They took a regular diesle Mercedies and just poured in used french fry oil. The thing ran and go basically 90% of the diesel mileage. Now how's that for a recycling. Have your fast food and fill up in the same spot. :)

I think diesel's are pretty powerful, just the ones we get in NA our not too fast. Just an FYI, 50% VW Canada's sales were diesel's in '06.

Internet is back up and fast. Wonder how long it will last.

And today is nice and :sn

I've got our next door neighbour office doing business, which means lots of talking. I think it is the pitch/tone that is grating.

[Dougie085]

Really? Hmm.... My friend has a 600cc bike.... I think its a yamaha and he said it gets something like 50-60mpg pretty easily. Of course the CBR 600RR is race ready... could have something to do with it :) Thats the bike I'd like to get not sure I'll ever get one though.


Yeah Biodiesel is cleaner as well. I think they said 90% less emissions then regular diesel. I would love to convert a car to run on fryer oil only problem is that you'd have to be looking for a fastfood place instead of a gas station all the time... On Fifth Gear they ran it for a full season like that and it was still running very strong at the end of the season.

[aud19]

It's an ultra efficient diesel. They built it to exceed the US's diesel emissions for cars which are supposed to be the highest in the world. I'm wondering what kind of fuel economy it has :) Might be something to look into the way gas prices are going....then again might be time to start on something other then fossil fuels.

Yeah the new diesel motors some of the euro/asian companies are making are nothing like the older units. Quiet, clean and making gobs of torque with decent HP numbers too. And as Dougie mentioned it's not so much that diesel is cheaper than gas but that you get 1.5-2X the mileage! Even the gas V-6 in the new Accord has cylinder deactivation and is apparently certified ultra low emissions (or whatever that standard is). Some of the diesel technology is improving gas engines too with companies using direct injection, higher compression ratios etc to maintain power and get better mileage. Then you've got bio-diesel...

Nick I've played my niece and nephew's Wii a few times and it's quite fun! :T

Yeah it's nice and :sn today! :banana: Sure is cold though! :E And boy was it WINDY last night!

[Lex]

The key to diesel power is turbo, pure and simple. Without it, they can't pull a G string out of a c@t's a$$. (a favorite saying of mine, lol.)

[aud19]

The key to diesel power is turbo, pure and simple. Without it, they can't pull a G string out of a c@t's a$$. (a favorite saying of mine, lol.)

Nothing wrong with that IMO. Gas or diesel, turbo let's you get the power of a larger engine with the lower mass and center of gravity of a smaller engine. Both of which are hugely beneficial to handling, power to weight, braking, efficiency etc. :T

[Paul Wu]

Wow, I didn't know that the Accord has cylinder deactivation.

Yeah, that was some wind storm last night. Enjoy the :sn while you can. I'm going out for a nice walk at lunch. I have some errands to run.

For a minute I thought the new Infinity EX was priced right for Canada, $34,850 and $36,250 for the AWD, then I saw that I was on the US site. :( So I figure add at least $5k to those starting prices.

I might have a buyer for my Golf. Would it sound strange if I didn't want to sell my Golf? It might be a kind of fun tuner car. It's paid for, there are some major repairs needed, timing belt, water pump, probably the clutch as well. But after that, that is basically it. I'd like to do the suspension and get some 17" for it. I'm not too sure how I can sell that idea to my wife. :)

[Dougie085]

The Wii is fun... But loads more fun with people around. If your looking for something for you and another to play then I would get a PS3 or a 360. The Wii is great for holidays and parties though because watching other people play it is about 60% the fun. Diana was begging for a Wii because she loved player her cousins lol. So I ended up buying one but I wanted something that I enjoyed playing to so we also have a 360. I eventually want a PS3 I think for Blu Ray amongst other things.

[aud19]

Wow, I didn't know that the Accord has cylinder deactivation.

Yeah I think you have to get the slushbox with the V6 to get it though. The 6sp manual doesn't have it as far as I can tell.

Doug, it may actually not be a half bad option for you if you're still thinking of downsizing from the M3. It's not RWD but it's got 270HP, looks good, Honda's always handle well and they're pretty bulletproof for reliability, low service costs and you can get a nice V6 with 6sp for under $30k US.... :P

And it has a trunk...another of your criteria if I recall ;)

[Paul Wu]

I know a PS3 is in the cards for me. Bluray, yes, and GT5, yes. Plus if I can find the time to get more use out of it, that will be a bonus. But first I think I'll have to upgrade my home set. Right now it's a RPTV that I bought used 3 years ago when we moved into our apartment. I may go with a DLP projection unit as they are about half the price of a comperable size LCD, plus the one's I'm looking at come with a stand. That way I can wait for the price for the larger flat pannels to come down in price and get one of those ultra slim ones in a few years time. I want to get something that will handle the HD content from a Bluray and GT5.

Mind you I have to free up some of my time from work. So talk about an incentive! If I can 'work' normal hours, I pretty much have the go ahead for the PS3 and new display. I've already been talking about doing the upgrade for the RPTV to something newer. I really notice the limited viewing angles.

A Wii would be fun, but probably later.

Right now this is my break from trying to coordinate some important dates during this year. Looks like people are changing some meeting dates, but not booking the room, so now I don't know which is the correct date.

Oh and I've been noticing that the markets are really taking a beating. :E It doesn't bother me as much these days as I have a much longer time horizon.

[Kevin P]

More proof that stupidity is the most abundant element in the universe:

http://www.jeandot.com/cloclo.jpg

[Lex]

nothing like charging your cell with you attached...

[aud19]

Wow.....that's dumb

[Lex]

I'd say it was an amuzing photo op, nothing more. nothing plugged in.

[Dougie085]

woot

[Dougie085]

here we go

[Dougie085]

and a

[Dougie085]

Flip!

The New Mac Book AIR. .76" thick 3lbs. 5 hours of battery life.

http://images.apple.com/macbookair/images/design_thinair20080115.jpg
http://images.apple.com/macbookair/images/design_displayair20080115.jpg

http://images.apple.com/macbookair/images/design_keyboardair20080115.jpg
http://images.apple.com/macbookair/images/design_gal02_20080115.jpg


And this is pretty awesome too Apple Time Capsule. 500gb or 1tb hard drive built into an apple airport extreme router. Can do 802.11 a/b/g/n and has a USB print server built in. 500gb for 299 1tb for 499 which I think is a great price for what your getting.
http://images.apple.com/timecapsule/images/overview_timecapsule_20080115.png

[Kevin P]

I'd say it was an amuzing photo op, nothing more. nothing plugged in.The hotplate is plugged into the power strip floating in the pool, which is plugged into the extension cord at the end of the pool.

Dougie, that's a skinny lappy!

[Dougie085]

Yeah I'm more interested in the Time Capsule though. 299 for a 500gb NAS, a wireless router that supports all forms of wireless and a usb print server seems like a great price to me.

[cuda65]

I just saw that Time Capsule a few minutes ago on there website. It is a great idea. I already have the Airport Extreme so it wouldn't help me out. I just need to get an external hard drive to back up to. That notebook is very nice.

[Lex]

I think my Honda Passport has cylinder deactivation too. Doesn't run worth a crap sometimes, lol.

So far, only one HT ad showing up in the ads at bottom of page. not sure what the difference is in ads by or referrals. I guess I'll learn as I go.

[dyazdani]

So far, only one HT ad showing up in the ads at bottom of page. not sure what the difference is in ads by or referrals. I guess I'll learn as I go.
It takes a little while before the system "learns" what your site is all about. When I first got mine, nothing was Audio related. It took a couple of weeks, but then all the ads made sense.

[Lex]

Yeah, I read that too. In fact it said until your site had been crawled, you may not see anything. I added some comments in mod section too to Kev.

[dyazdani]

I got my 80-200 today, just as described. I had just enough time before it turned dark to get one picture of this bird. I'll send you a PM regarding the lens condition.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v92/dyazdani/Photos/Bird1Sm011508.jpg

[Lex]

The image looks pretty nice Danish! Maybe you got a real bargain!

[aud19]

In keeping with the Apple theme... pretty big announcement re: downloadable movies/VOD from Apple today:

http://afp.google.com/article/ALeqM5hvMegd0reWWr2UEJKaYIS-mc5Puw

(Also posted about it in the appropriate thread if you guys want to discuss)
http://www.htguide.com/forum/showthread.php4?p=378134#post378134

http://afp.google.com/media/ALeqM5g70W1IyJDD3cI52WHpaIZSbJk9bA?size=m

[Paul Wu]

That laptop looks really cool. Love to see it in person.

Not having such a good day. Had a good walk, messed up on a deposit, so I don't know what will happen there. Paper just keeps on piling up and I haven't had a chance to post for help. And the day is basically over.

[Dougie085]

Yeah they also do HD movies. The iTV got a big update as well its more functional and you can purchase movies both SD and HD directly from the iTV.

[aud19]

Yeah they also do HD movies. The iTV got a big update as well its more functional and you can purchase movies both SD and HD directly from the iTV.

And all you naysayers said it was a pipedream :p: I say again, HD format war... who cares :p: :lol:

[Lex]

was over at Walmart, decided to scan TVs, saw a 50" plasma, 720p for less than 1500 bucks, not bad at all. I'm not in the market, just looking.

[Dougie085]

And all you naysayers said it was a pipedream :p: I say again, HD format war... who cares :p: :lol:

Means nothing honestly. How many people actually purchase shows off itunes? Thats the point...the point is yeah its possible sure it will happen someday but people like physically owning something. It won't take off for a while some people will use it but majority won't. Heck how many people even own an iTV?

[dyazdani]

The Family Guy Star Wars spoof came out on DVD today, almost picked up the special edition. Instead, I came away with diapers and infant gas relief medicine, yay.

Rough day here too. The baby furniture we ordered is still not here and I feel the guy is giving me the runaround. I called twice today from work and the phone hung up - my wife called from home and the same thing happened. I have to go down there to take Dax for a check-up, so I may stop in (it's 1 1/2 hr drive). He better get his act straightened out.

[RobP]

The Family Guy Star Wars spoof came out on DVD today, almost picked up the special edition. Instead, I came away with diapers and infant gas relief medicine, yay.



Welcome to Fatherhood! :lol: Get used to it............. :W

So, how is the little guy doing? Is he sleeping through the night?

[Dougie085]

Thats a silly question Robert he's only like a week old.

[dyazdani]

So, how is the little guy doing? Is he sleeping through the night?
Yeah, silly - no, he's quite active and loud at night...

[RobP]

Thats a silly question Robert he's only like a week old.

I guess I was lucky, Rikki slept all night from day one, never really cried much either.

[dyazdani]

Yeah, but in a few years YOU get stuck with the wedding bill :lol:

[RobP]

:rofl: :rofl: ..................... :cry: :thud:

[Alaric]

Means nothing honestly. How many people actually purchase shows off itunes? Thats the point...the point is yeah its possible sure it will happen someday but people like physically owning something. It won't take off for a while some people will use it but majority won't. Heck how many people even own an iTV?

Give it a couple generations and people will think it's normal to "buy" things they don't own. I'm a firm believer in "I buy it-it's mine". I'm almost at the point I wish the RIAA would show up at my door. If I can just coax them in.....

[Chris D]

We had another cold snap up here in Alaska the last few days. Was -22F here yesterday morning, which is the coldest I've personally ever been in. Much warmer today. (high of +12F) Funny thing is, many of us Yanks probably hear that and think, "that's hilarious that you could think that's warmer". But the long-time Canucks here on the board probably think, "you're a sissy... we see those kinds of temps all the time!" :)

(and Lee's probably thinking, "what the heck are degrees in F?" :)

It's hard for me becuase I'm a person that believes a name can shape a personality.
You know... I've often wondered about that. I think that definitely could be true, but then I wonder if that means that all us guys named Chris have similar personalities. (at least to a degree) Just taking a look at guys I've seen named Chris, many seem pretty darn different. So I don't know.

Just don't name your kid "Monster" at all, or you'll owe Noel Lee thousands of dollars. I dare you to slip in "Bose" somehow... :lol:

[dyazdani]

It's been a little cooler here, but not bad, around 30-32F. The coldest I've been in without windchill is -63F where I used to live.

[Lex]

whew, -63f, I'd call that absolute cold!

28f now at present, was a bit colder earlier this morning.

[Lex]

hmmm, referral @ds not working as advertised. Got to check on that. I only signed up for music, movies, and photo and video equipment on the right side. Now getting some bank thing, hmmm.

[Paul Wu]

I now see the Panasonic PT-AE2000U on the left and probably seeing the same add as you on the right.

Been up early today, for me anyway. I'd say those temps are just too cold for me.

[Lex]

I removed the referral ads until I get clarification on them.

Now running all the type that seem to produce related products. I also have modified the layout extensively. I'll tweak it later.

[Paul Wu]

Looks pretty good.

Lousy email. Funny how just one email can just set me off, well not really a set me off more of a :roll: Actually there's two, and the day's just started.

[aud19]

Means nothing honestly. How many people actually purchase shows off itunes? Thats the point...the point is yeah its possible sure it will happen someday but people like physically owning something. It won't take off for a while some people will use it but majority won't. Heck how many people even own an iTV?

Nothing....I'd say it's a very large crack in a very large damn. As for the ownership thing give it time, you'll be able to "own" a copy stored on a hard drive soon enough. Give it some time to develop and penetrate. Dougie I could ask you the same questions about HD players that have been pushed a LOT harder, yes I'm sure their numbers are currently bigger especially if you include the PS3...but that doesn't make them any less an intermediate format. Their market share will never get much above 50% if it even does.

Yeah Chris that's way too cold for this Canuck :E

[RobP]

setup for someone

[RobP]

The coldest I've been in without windchill is -63F where I used to live.


That had to be brutal, I cannot even imagine what that had to feel like. :E

[aud19]

Oooh

[aud19]

I'll try

[aud19]

2 Flip

http://images.apple.com/appletv/images/overview_hero20080115.png
http://www.tvover.net/content/binary/appletv-large-01102007.jpg

[Dougie085]

Hmm.... 10 minutes and no picture? Where's Robert...lol

[Kevin P]

Hmm.... 10 minutes and no picture? Where's Robert...lolNow where did I put that stash of "totally inappropriate for HTG Home Brew" pics?? :twisted: :rofl:

Well, here's some pics of one of my fixer-uppers, now fully fixerd-uppered. I'm hoping to sell it soon.

http://www.patzcatz.com/twojunos/dsc02997.jpg

http://www.patzcatz.com/twojunos/dsc02999.jpg

http://www.patzcatz.com/twojunos/dsc03001.jpg

http://www.patzcatz.com/twojunos/dsc03002.jpg

http://www.patzcatz.com/twojunos/dsc03003.jpg

http://www.patzcatz.com/twojunos/dsc03006.jpg

http://www.patzcatz.com/twojunos/dsc03007.jpg

http://www.patzcatz.com/twojunos/dsc03008.jpg

http://www.patzcatz.com/twojunos/dsc03010.jpg

http://www.patzcatz.com/twojunos/dsc03011.jpg

http://www.patzcatz.com/twojunos/dsc03012.jpg

http://www.patzcatz.com/twojunos/dsc03013.jpg

http://www.patzcatz.com/twojunos/dsc03014.jpg

Yes, those are Heather's feet in the last pic ;)

[Dougie085]

Looks good...

Jason I'm wondering how good their HD content is.... like quality wise. I'm sure they use their H264 encoding.

[aud19]

Looks good...

Jason I'm wondering how good their HD content is.... like quality wise. I'm sure they use their H264 encoding.

I haven't seen it but I'd imagine somewhere between broadcast HD and the optical formats....for now ;) And cheaper and more convenient than renting.

[Dougie085]

Well got my new TV. Here's a pic. It still needs lots of calibration but I'm working on it :) It'll do until I get a bigger display and then this one will move into the bedroom. It was just way to cheap... Open box and I got it for like 300+ a little for shipping.

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c30/Dougie085/P1010030.jpg

Now I just need a new TV stand.

[Lex]

nice job on your synth Kevin.

setup looking good Dougie..

[Nick M]

Dougie - Looking good man!
-----
I watched the keynote on Apple's website today. The new Macbook Air is a pretty amazing amalgamation of super-shrunk components - ubersexy!

I think the new AppleTV is going to flop again. $2.99 for a 24hr rental of an old movie is simply too much - especially considering the cost of the box. Too many greedy people between the consumer and the movies is going to hurt everyone. My local rental shop gets $0.99 for each old movie for a 48hr rental, $3.50 for a new release, and they pay for all sorts of infrastructure. An electronic rental over the net shouldn't cost $4 for a new release.

But it has incredible potential if they set the right price. Could you imagine a set-top box with a couple hundred thousand films on tap for $0.99ea? Hell yeah!

I just downloaded the new iPhone update though. Works like a GPS now with it's new software that triangulates position using cell towers and WiFi hotspots. Written with google maps, you have "GPS" functionality with the google maps databases... super-powerful!.

Unfortunately they still don't have a "Headless iMac" that has consumer-level components of the iMac, but upgrade/expandability options of the Mac Pro, so my next 'puter this summer will be a home-built desktop again. But day to day use will still see me in front of my macbook. My next notebook in a couple years may be a Macbook air, once the solid-state drives come down in price, go up in space, and become standard features.

http://images.apple.com/macbookair/images/buynowstrip_air20080115.png
-----
Off yp get some stuff done!

[dyazdani]

Dougie, where'd you get your TV? I need another one for a spare bedroom, that size would be just right I think.

[Dougie085]

Found it on ebay. I jumped on it real fast because it was so cheap...lol

[aud19]

My local rental shop gets $0.99 for each old movie for a 48hr rental, $3.50 for a new release...

Wow! That's cheap up here I'm paying I think around $6 for a new release for one day and about $4 for older stuff but you do get it for a week... That said the Apple stuff you have access to for 30 days if you don't watch it which gives you a lot more time than a rental place if something comes up.... as long as you haven't already started to watch it anyway.

[Paul Wu]

Love the look of the new AirMac. I agree, as solid state drives come down in price I could see getting one of these. I debated whether I wanted a ulstra portable when I got my laptop, and I figured that I would be paying too much for too little functionality. So I went for a larger size notebook. Haven't regretted it since, with the exception of getting Vista on it. Some parts I like, other's I don't like.

Time for dinner!

[Lex]

Obviously, Apple should stick to what they do best, teh airmac looks like a real winner, wow, so thin. The TV idea was bad to begin with, could they not learn from other failed media attempts?

[Dougie085]

We have a rental place called Family Video and they do old releases for like 5 days for 99 cents new releases are like 1.99 for 3 days.

[RobP]

Netflix offers movie downloads as well...... Apple is a wee bit behind.

[Dougie085]

Apple wasn't the first for music downloads either....they just know how to market stuff.

[Lex]

amen, they are marketer savante's A lot of it is the public and their placing apple on a throne too, it's like well if apple made it, wow, got to have it! Sometimes it's good, but many times, it's marginal and overpriced. So, I stick with winder's and save. :-)

[Dougie085]

Well your talking about computers now and if you want to be truthful macs are more stable and usually don't crash. Windows on the other hand has millions of things wrong with it all the time. As far as the iPod goes though I really don't like them much... I had a Zune once and it was definitely better but I took it back because I hated the Zune software that was required to use to put music on. I really like the Creative Zen mp3 players though :) probably get one of those if I ever decide I need an MP3 player.

[Alaric]

(and Lee's probably thinking, "what the heck are degrees in F?"

I got that one. -22 degrees is F-ing COLD!

[Chris D]

Whoops, sorry, perhaps I meant Vincent, the OTHER Dublin! ;)

Not a bad day. Flew a bit tonight. Unwinding here in the middle of the night, and then going to bed. Still finishing off a meat and cheese tray we bought for Abby's birthday party last Saturday.

[Lex]

My PC doesn't crash Dougie. Actually, neither at work or at home. I do run XP. Not the Vista Virus. ;)

I know they have nice computers, even if a bit pricey. However, it's all the other stuff that I feel they are overpriced on and overrated.

[Alloroc]

Nah Chris, I'm of the age when imperial was the norm. I'm versed in both although I (well, we all do) work in metric for almost everything.

Rentals - I can rent a new release bluray or dvd in my local Xtravision (owned by blockbuster) for €4 or if I buy a 'valuecard' I get 10 rentals for €30. Now, you can rent two movies for two nights @ €8 all in. Deven value. We also have Screenclick (like netflix) and they're a bit cheaper.

So, like MP3s - I've not yet bought from itunes. Unliess I got the queality I wanted, I won't.

So the airmac is one funky machine. I read though, like the ipod, it does not have a user removable/replacable battery and it costs $129 to replace. Not sure what the implications of that is but it was a real problem in the early days of the ipod.

Interstingly, I got a new laptop - a HP 6510b. Nice machine. It has 4gb ram, centrino duo, 250gb hdd, widescreen and is really light. It also has the best battery of any laptop I've owned yet. It goes for just over 5 hours. Great stuff.

Anyhow, over my bug now and am back in work. I have the house to myself as dee is away at that expo in Cologne. It looks really great. I hope they pick up a new line or something. Myself and Dee have been talking about opening up a branch of the business in Dublin - particularly since her redundancy. She's got the contacts and access to suppliers etc. We'll see how she feels when she gets back.

[Alloroc]

Here's a chuckle...

A wife was making a breakfast of fried eggs for her
husband.

Suddenly, her husband burst into the kitchen.

"Careful," he said, "CAREFUL! Put in some more butter!

Oh my GOD! You're cooking too many at once. TOO MANY! Turn them! TURN
THEM NOW! We need more butter. Oh my GOD!

WHERE are we going to get MORE BUTTER? They're going to STICK! Careful. CAREFUL! I said be CAREFUL!

You NEVER listen to me when you're cooking! Never! Turn them! Hurry up! Are
you CRAZY? Have you LOST your mind? Don't forget to salt them.

You know you always forget to salt them. Use the salt. USE THE SALT! THE SALT!"

The wife stared at him. "What is wrong with you?! You think I don't know how to fry a couple of eggs?"

The husband calmly replied, "I just wanted to show you what it feels like when I'm driving."

[Lex]

we now have a google search right on the site. Seems to be an issue, search is working, but an issue yet...

That is pretty funny Vincent.

[cuda65]

That was pretty funny Vincent. Thanks for the laugh.

[Kevin P]

Good one Vincent. :rofl: It reminds me of my evil MIL, she would probably say that for real if she is with us when we're cooking, or driving for that matter. :roll:

[Lex]

quite day on elm street here...

[aud19]

Apple wasn't the first for music downloads either....they just know how to market stuff.

Yeah they weren't the first, won't be the last and probably won't be the best but they'll certainly get it to the masses! I'm not excited about Apple TV because I believe Apple can do it best but because they'll get that market a lot of attention and start the floodgates of what I believe is the true next generation format.

My PC doesn't crash Dougie. Actually, neither at work or at home. I do run XP. Not the Vista Virus. ;)

I know they have nice computers, even if a bit pricey. However, it's all the other stuff that I feel they are overpriced on and overrated.

Have to go with Doug on this one, my XP machines all run like Swiss clocks (knock on wood). If you don't need the Apple form factor/style or their simplified (read: also limited) abilities... they tend to be overpriced comparatively.

Funny Vincent :lol: :T

Elm Street Doug? Something scary happening? :scratchhead:

[RobP]

Howdy Buckaroos :later:

Snowed pretty good here last night, school was canceled so I got to sleep in a bit. :banana:, man that felt great.....


Vincent pretty funny joke. :T

Kevin, your mentioning your MIL reminds me of a trip we took my MIL on years ago. My MIL likes to tell everyone how to drive and feels it her place to be the speed regulator of any car ride, one late night I was driving and she kept looking over at the speedo, she would tell me to slow down then wake my wife and tell her that I was driving too fast. :confused: ..after a few times of this I got tired of it, :twisted: so I turned the dash lights down so low that she couldn't see them, she looked over, looked at me and gave me a smirk, I smirked back and chuckled :B .... :lol: , she didnt mention my driving the rest of the trip.. :D

[RobP]

Elm Street Doug? Something scary happening? :scratchhead:



No........ Doug got a new sweater and is laying hints so we can tell him how good he looks in it. :p: :lol:

http://i225.photobucket.com/albums/dd122/soundgravy/1105012.jpg

[RobP]

setting up a setup for someone

[RobP]

and now...the actual setup

[aud19]

Oooh!

[aud19]

Another!

[aud19]

yippee!

[aud19]

Flip

Can't wait for the new season of this one! :T :yesnod:

http://philescandon.files.wordpress.com/2007/08/californication.jpg

Good one Robert :lol:

Only a couple weeks for this one too! :banana:

http://www.lostpedia.com/images/1/16/Lost-season1.jpg

[Lex]

LOL, you guys. Elm street was just a street I pulled out of the air, was it in a scary movie?

[Dougie085]

Nightmare On Elm Street Doug.

In a long term period I've had windows crash on me just from windows update. I've never had a mac crash on me due to updates. You can't deny that OSX is more stable then windows :) Just because You have not had a problem YET doesn't mean a lot. In general people have more problems with windows then OSX and that was my point.

When does Californication and Lost start? I can't wait!

[aud19]

I dunno our graphics guy seems to have more issues with his Mac doing wonky stuff when working on large files than I do on my PC. Perhaps you had inferior PC equipment or sketchy software involved with your experience Dougie :p:

I think Lost starts on the 30th of this month...pretty sure Californication's not on until next fall though :( ...depending on the writer strike anyway...

[RobP]

As far as the Macs being more reliable I not so sure so far with ours, already Rikki is having problems with her Mac, it just shuts off with no warning, been on the phone a few times with tech to try to figure out whats wrong, I googled it and found that we are not the only ones with the problem. I did some changes on the power settings and what not, hopefully the problem is solved.
Meanwhile, her PC has been running problem free since the day we bought it four years ago...

[Paul Wu]

Yeah, got some new phone lines and have accidentally dial 9-1-1. :roll: Now I have to relearn the phones.

Been trying to clean up my office today and have barely scratched the surface.

A laptop that was getting service has yet to comeback to us, so now I have to call to see what is going on.

[Dougie085]

Hmm... I've always bought high quality components. Corsair ram, BFG or EVGA or some other high quality retail video cards ASUS, MSI, Gigabyte boards and of course lately its been Intel Core 2 Duo cpu's :) I've really never had any major problems that couldn't be fixed. Diana's Mac Mini has been very stable not one issue. Runs pretty fast to. I'm not saying PC's are garbage or anything I mean I use one but if someone was coming to me that had never used a computer and wanted one I would probably point them to a mac because I think the interface is more simple and they don't have to worry about viruses very much and unix is just very solid.

[aud19]

I don't worry much about viruses either...

[Dougie085]

Nor do I but a new computer user always seems to get one somehow.....or a computer user that just doesn't know what they are doing really.

[Alloroc]

Keep missing those damn flips....

Never really into macs. Always been into wintel. For me through the years is was all about the games and the diy factor. Right place and right time as it was my teenage hobby in the 80s and it gave me a great career and lifestyle. After University I started in an Irish Bank - '91/2 and begun my love affair with OS/2! Seriously! It was great - for its time it was by far the most stable. But along came NT (rebadged OS/2 really) and that was that.

Now, I've a 2.5 year old Dell (a powerhouse with dual xeon processors) and loaded vista ultimate last year. Not one single crash. My only gripe with vista is/was driver support for older devices like my printer and soundblaster. HP and Creative were really slow in coming out with drivers. That said, now it's settling down and mainstreaming, it's much less an issue. I'd really suggest you try it - if you have the power for it that is!

I can't wait for lost. The good news is we're only going to be a day behind the US and not a week as is the norm. That's the great thing living in a small country - we get the big US shows well before anyone else in Europe - it's much cheaper for us to buy - populations sizes or somthing.

[Dougie085]

Yeah probably won't see other shows like Hero's and Californication until close to the end of the year. If the strike is over in June then I'd say at least 2 months for the first episode to start.

[Lex]

oh, come to think of it I remember that name, but I don't do horror movies.

[Dougie085]

One of the last Freddy Cooger movies...or however you spell it :)

[dyazdani]

I've had a couple issues with my MacBook, but nothing I couldn't get past. 1) HDD died 3 days out of warranty :M 2) Safari locks up from time to time 3) Bogs down with more than 1 prog open

[Dougie085]

For problem number 2 don't use Safari :) I don't like it much honestly firefox works much better or opera if thats your thing.

[Lex]

about ready to turn in for the night, feeling tired.

[Dougie085]

Reilly won't stay awake today.... Not sure why he's so tired.... didn't get up until noon.

[dyazdani]

We took Dax on his first long trip today down to LA for a check-up. He did really well, didn't fuss at all. Even made it through dinner at Copeland's without an incident.

[Chris D]

Since I flew last night, I slept in today. When I got up, I just didn't feel like going into work. I might get yelled at for it, but.... oh, well.

[Dougie085]

Hey Chris, Hope you feel better. I sent you a PM had a couple questions.

[dyazdani]

Hehe, Chris "oh well" is similar to how I feel much of the time. I had a frustrating day at work and I only worked until noon (had to take Dax to the Dr.). I don't know what I would have done if I was there all day, we can't be under the influence...

[Alaric]

This was interesting. http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120044692027492991.html?mod=hpp_us_inside_to

Imagine if they had used good speaker cables!

[Chris D]

In the immortal words of Tom Cruise in Risky Business, sometimes you just have to say, "What the #$@#%????"

----------------------------

random thing of the day--stumbled across this: http://www.cepro.com/article/want_to_add_security_try_the_bedside_shotgun_rack/ Play the video at the end of it. Best is at the end, where it says, "put a shotgun on EACH side of the bed!"

[Alloroc]

Morning all. TGTF!

Going to test drive the Volvo XC70 and the V70 tomorrow. I reckon I'll place an order for one or the other. I've pretty much made up my mind that I want to stick with Volvo.


Funny article. Horse cr*p, but funny - in a 'dismissive how dare you insult my hobby' sort of way. That said, he his stating the bleedin' obvious though.
Imagine if was using Catcables!

BTW, has anyone seen this? Is it just me or is this not a perfect example that there is something seriously wrong with the modern world?! The Taser/MP3 Player in lady friendly colors....

http://img.metro.co.uk/i/pix/2008/01/taserR_450x250.jpg

I ripperd this from the site where I got the picture - it cave me a chuckle but here are some tracks to taser to....(that sounds so k-tel :D )

Electro-Shock Blues – Eels
Danger! High Voltage – Electric Six
Gimme Gimme Shock Treatment – The Ramones
Get The Message – Electronic
Twelve Volt Man – Jimmy Buffett
She's Electric – Oasis
Such Current Of Electricity Shall Continue To Pass – Redrum
Shock Treatment – Pizzicato Five
Electricity – Spiritualized
I'm Fried – The Stooges

[Lex]

ahh, the MP3 tazer, why didn't I think of that. Maybe because it's SICK!

Chris, I'm with you, didn't feel real well today either, but dragged my butt to the office.

ZZZZssssstttTTT!!! OOps, sorry, I meant to press play.

[Alloroc]

ahh, the MP3 tazer, why didn't I think of that. Maybe because it's SICK!

Chris, I'm with you, didn't feel real well today either, but dragged my butt to the office.

ZZZZssssstttTTT!!! OOps, sorry, I meant to press play.


Doug, Sick as in cool or sick as in disgusting? Apparently it can mean both these days! :D

[Lex]

well, sick as in dangerous!

I don't particularly agree with the merging of tase technology with our daily lives. Someone should know if they pick up a taser.

Danish, I took some liberty with unsharp mask on your bird, you may not be sharpening enough. See what you think. I also increased the saturation just slightly.

I don't like trying to seem the expert, but just thought I'd show you what I did with it in ACDSee. nice color on the background, very nice.

It's in a private area so as not to be confused with my work, and I will delete after you've seen it.

http://fotogafer.smugmug.com/photos/244637995-X3.jpg

[dyazdani]

Thanks Doug. I did a bit of USM originally, but like you say,maybe just not enough - what settings did you use? Maybe I'm scared that I'm overdoing it, but if that's what others are doing...

What exactly is ACDsee used for? I guess I could look it up...

No big deal on the pic, you can keep it - just split the profuts :rofl:

[dyazdani]

I guess though I'm feeling better about the lens as it does result in some very sharp images. I think the AF may be off slightly but only in a limited number of conditions, in general it works great.

Doug, not sure if you noticed but one guy has the same lens with the same issues on the Cafe for $400...

[Dougie085]

So did the lens arrive damaged? Or is it a flaw? Also ACDsee is a photo management software. It's quite nice.

[Paul Wu]

Hi everybody! Looking forward to a nice weather day and week. Enjoying the clear skys.

Oh boy. Did I get one doozy of an email today. I think all my problems would be solved if I didn't have email. :) It was:

we need draft financial statements for 2007 for ..... Can you give me an idea when you might have a draft ready?

Here is the email reply that I would like to send.

Dear xxxx,

I was off for 3 weeks and 3 weeks of work need to be completed. I have only been back for 2 weeks. You do the math. Once I have caught up I can then start looking at the year end for Dec. Remember last year, what did you have as prelimenary figures and how big was the change when the statements were finalized? Do you want to go through that again?

So, I could put some numbers to gether, but they will be crap. I won't stand behind them.

Also I don't think it is such a good idea to send out statements to an external source before our own Audit Committee reviews them.

So they will be done when they are done.

[Dougie085]

Tell them what's up Paul ;)

[Paul Wu]

Yeah, and even that was toned down from my initial reaction of..What the F!@#? Of course the sender of the email isn't in the office today.

I also told our IT guys that their service response time was crap. There was a call put in yesterday about the DVD not being able to play on the new laptop. I spent about an hour fixing it, basically it didn't like Windows Meda Player, but Intervideo worked fine. So I wonder if I can bill them my time.

I am looking forward to dinner tonight, but probably coming back to start cleaning up my office. I'd like to be able to just walk of here, without filling up a lot of boxes with my crap if it ever came to that. I have basically decided that this isn't the organization for me. Now it is just a matter of time when I leave. I have been working on a contract basis for these past few years and have never had a problem getting a job. This time in my 'permanent' position, I think I will plan my leave date as well as take some good time off. I'm thinking next year at the latest if not sooner.

My only reason for staying so long, is my mortgage is up for renewal in Oct and banks really like to have the employment letter saying that I'm permanent. It really shouldn't matter as the mortgage is for a revenue property that has already increased in value and is nicely positive cashflowing.

Well that's pretty much about it for me.

[Lex]

well, actually I only used unsharp mask, photoshop has unsharp mask too, just mine does not work in CSIII. I need to try CSII again at home.

Anyway, ACDSee is a cheap edit program 50 bucks. I got it to use as a directory sort of. It's not perfect, but has a really good unsharp mask.

Anyway, I did see the other lens, 400 is reasonable I would think for a grade A one.

[Lex]

I just had something rather upsetting occur. I passed a backho, and a pickup truck, I Saw in my mirror, hoofs attached to probably a cow. I then passed by the house with the property behind my house, and he was washing the drive, looked like blood. I think he killed the bull right there.

I don't know why this has upset me so, he wasn't my pet, in fact I probably only saw him a dozen or so times. But I suddenly just became very upset by this. I mean I know this happens every day, they are livestock. But not to many stand out back and come to look in when they hear a noise in the house, express such curiosity about you. I don't think I am wrong. So, here's to the curious Bull guys.

http://fotogafer.smugmug.com/photos/238882423-L.jpg

[Kevin P]

Let's raise a glass and give a nice, loud MOOOOOOOOOOOO! in remembrance of Doug's neighbor's bull...

Since I got the flip (unexpectedly), I'll steal, er, borrow your pic.
http://fotogafer.smugmug.com/photos/238882423-L.jpg

I guess you're not going to feel the same eating beef now, are you?

[aud19]

Thank goodness you finally posted I've been waiting due to an impending foul :lol:

Sorry about your buddy the bull Doug.

Yeah the whole taser phenomenon is a bit disturbing :confused:

I didn't think you could do that sort of thing in the military Chris?! :E Good luck man! :lol:

The things we'd like to write back to the morons we deal with on a daily basis eh Paul? :B :lol:

TGIF!! :banana:

[Paul Wu]

Oh I forgot to comment on the Taser thing. I am just waiting for a youtube video of someone accidentaly discharging while listening to their tunes. "You mean this wasn't the resume button?"

Yeah, I still have my draft email that I am working on. Talk about a time waster.

Seems like the laptop was actually delivered to us on Tuesday, which kinda sucks, as now I have to talk to somebody about that. I disctinctly remember asking this person on Wed about the status.

Did I mention that I have a request in to get our server clocks changed to the correct time? I just bugs the heck out of me that my time is slow by aobut 4 min.

Time for me to find some lunch. Not sure where I'll be going, but I need a little walk.

Oh, I am going to do a survey on our accounting package. Boy are they going to get an earful/webful.

Oh and an ode to the bull. I will raise a glass in good memory.

[dyazdani]

So did the lens arrive damaged? Or is it a flaw? Also ACDsee is a photo management software. It's quite nice.
No, there is no damage though it has some wear which is understandable as it's a bit older.

Just trying to understand how to get the sharpest images. Some aspects have to do with the condition and the quality of the lens. Others are the technique and camera settings. Finally, there's the post processing.

I'm trying to isolate any issues I'm having into those 3 buckets. I think I have dismissed that there's an optical issue with the lens, thought the focusing may be off under certain conditions.

[dyazdani]

well, actually I only used unsharp mask, photoshop has unsharp mask too, just mine does not work in CSIII. I need to try CSII again at home.
OK, I thought maybe it had noise reduction or something like Noise Ninja, etc. I've got CS3 but I was wondering what settings you use for amount, radius, etc.


Anyway, I did see the other lens, 400 is reasonable I would think for a grade A one.Yeah, that made me feel better about mine. His is in almost identical condition and I got a better deal.

[Lex]

Thanks guys. I guess this wouldn't have bothered me as bad if he just disappeared, and I hadn't seen them haul him off. I am thankful I stopped to talk to my Brother in Law for a few minutes, or maybe I'd have seen worse. I think it's pretty low they couldn't take him somewhere away from public viewing to do that. What if a child saw them do this? Unbelievable.

As to my eating beef, well again I know they are livestock, it's just the events how they went that make this difficult. Most cows don't stare at you.

I know I could not be a beef producer. I'd have a real problem with being a killer.

[Paul Wu]

Omg! That is all I can say right now. :E

I finally just sent my email. It is toned down but still gets my point across.

Then I have just received another email. And it is just pissing me off right now.

[Paul Wu]

Yup, still pissed off and got a reply from my email. I'll be in for about another hour then it is off to dinner with my wife. That is my happy thought for now.

I'm glad I can vent here.

[Lex]

What's wrong Pauly? Cry on my shoulder, wait, that could be mis-interpreted... ;)

[Lex]

was working trying to straighten a roller on my solder station. Apparently I got a little rough with it and bent the sh.. out of a roller shaft. You know, it sticks up inside the end of the bench leg, so it has 4 rollers and can move easily. Real pain to do something like that yourself, lifting up 75 pounds I guess, and sliding something under it. At least the roller fell out. I took vice grips and held the pin and base assembly so it wouldn't rotate, and pounded it some with a hammer. I got it mostly straight. Hopefully if I am really gentle with it, it will be ok. No more rough stuff...

[Paul Wu]

Let me just come on by to do some crying. ;)

It is just the more I think about the email, the more I just want to reply with my original response. I took 3 weeks off and it will take me 3 weeks to get caught up.

Why does it take so long to produce a set of draft financials, because it does.

Why should we send out financials to an external body before our own Audit committee and Executive and Board get to see them? It is just good practice to make sure your Board knows what is going on.

Why have they gone through 8 accountants in the last 2 years? Because everything is needed right now and nobody really plans ahead.

Did I mention our Deputy Director decided to paint part of the office? He spent 2 days basically painting. Like that is a great use of time! Probably the most anybody has paid for painting. Like hire somebody.

I know I'll get the question of, why haven't you possted for your accountant position? Well because each time I try and create a job description, something 'urgent' comes up.

I am seriously at the end of my rope. I am literally shaking as I am pounding this out. :M

Looks like I will get one thing done today.

[Lex]

cleansing breath Paul, deep breath. , now release...

[Dougie085]

Wooosfaba.......lol

[aud19]

cleansing breath Paul, deep breath. , now release...

I agree 8O

[Dougie085]

Well I got an awesome deal today! I was at The Exchange...its a video and game exchange place. Well they had this xbox live 12 month membership card sitting in the case for 5 bucks... it was the really old one that was out when the first xbox was out but it said compatible with xbox 360 on the front and I didn't see an expiration date so I said what the heck I'll give it a try. Got home put in the code and its good! :) So pretty happy I got a year sub to xbox live for 5 bucks.

[Paul Wu]

Yup. Did some posting, got a bunch of posting errors. Most relate to 2008, so I'm going to leave those. There are some that relate to 2007, about 25k worth so I have to look into what is going on with those.

So my first preliminary run looks okay. Lots to clean up.

Hey it's quitting time!

[Dougie085]

You guys hear NBC is making an american version of Top Gear.... I bet money it won't be as good though. Starts on March 4th.

[Chris D]

BTW, has anyone seen this? Is it just me or is this not a perfect example that there is something seriously wrong with the modern world?! The Taser/MP3 Player in lady friendly colors....

http://img.metro.co.uk/i/pix/2008/01/taserR_450x250.jpg

Are you kidding me? A leopard skin taser is one thing, but to put an MP3 in it? Like all the rest of you guys, I'm just envisioning when somebody presses the wrong button for "play" and zaps themselves. :)

Man, felt like it was a rough day. Get the day off tomorrow, and then I'm going on a quick trip to Thailand on Sunday.

Paul, sorry to hear about the rough job. People suck sometimes. I recommend sending a blank reply E-mail to your people with only this picture... I have others too, that work just as well.

http://images.art.com/images/products/regular/10301000/10301869.jpg

[Paul Wu]

Oh yeah, now that is a great pic.

I think I'll have to get a magic 8 ball when people come rolling into my office and ask for something. Let's see what the 8 ball thinks.

I hope you have a short trip to Tland.

[Chris D]

http://www.ps3forums.com/customavatars/avatar16021_1.gif http://www.clubarmada.com/forums/images/smilies/dork.gifhttp://www.clubarmada.com/forums/images/smilies/clueless.gifhttp://www.clubarmada.com/forums/images/smilies/fullofit.gifhttp://users.pandora.be/eforum/emoticons4u/fingers/fing36.gifhttp://smilies.sofrayt.com/eng/fuck3.gifhttp://smilies.sofrayt.com/%5E/a0/bgrasshole.gifhttp://smilies.sofrayt.com/%5E/a0/boid.gif

And maybe a spoiler image... http://www.pirate4x4.com/forum/customavatars/avatar12196_1.gif

[Dougie085]

Can't get that hidden image to show for some reason....

[Chris D]

RETIREMENT PLANNING FOR 2008
If you had purchased $1000.00 of Nortel stock one year ago, it would now be worth $49.00.


With Enron, you would have had $16.50 left of the original $1000.00.

With WorldCom, you would have had less than $5.00 left.

If you had purchased $1000 of Delta Air Lines stock you would have $49.00 left


But, if you had purchased $1,000.00 worth of beer one year ago, drank all the beer, then turned in the cans for the aluminum recycling REFUND, You would have had $214.00.

Based on the above, the best current investment advice is to drink heavily and recycle.

It's called the 401-Keg Plan

[Lex]

I've heard similar before Chris, is about right for the rock market, I mean stock market.

[Paul Wu]

RETIREMENT PLANNING FOR 2008
If you had purchased $1000.00 of Nortel stock one year ago, it would now be worth $49.00.


With Enron, you would have had $16.50 left of the original $1000.00.

With WorldCom, you would have had less than $5.00 left.

If you had purchased $1000 of Delta Air Lines stock you would have $49.00 left


But, if you had purchased $1,000.00 worth of beer one year ago, drank all the beer, then turned in the cans for the aluminum recycling REFUND, You would have had $214.00.

Based on the above, the best current investment advice is to drink heavily and recycle.

It's called the 401-Keg Plan

Boy that's an old one. Here's a link to my reply back in 2004. (Google search is great!)

http://www.htguide.com/forum/showpost.php4?p=40502&postcount=968

Let me now update this.

Nortel:

$27.30 - 1/17/07
$12.74 - 1/17/08

A loss of $533.33

Enron:

$0 - 1/17/07
$0 - 1/17/08

You couldn't buy Enron so your $1,000 would be worth $1,000.

Worlcom:
Well you can't get Worldcom, but seeing as it was acquired in the end by Verizon, let's take a look at that stock.

$37.57 - 1/17/07
$39.09 - 1/18/08

A gain of $40.46. Add the dividend payout of $1.67 per share, that adds another $44.45 for a total return of $84.91.

What's the refund price of a can of beer? In Canada it's $0.05 per can. So if we take $214 refund / $0.05 per can, then you would have bought 4,280 cans of beer! That works out to $0.23 per can or $5.61 per case of 24. Man that's cheap beer!

[Paul Wu]

Just ordered a GPS unit, a Garmin Nuvi 350.

http://content.costco.ca/Images/Content/Product/841559cL.jpg

Not too sure if I'll keep it, but it was at a great price from Costco, if I don't like it, the return will be easy.

[dyazdani]

Crutchfield had the Alpine GPS units on clearance. I don't really need one though...

[Alloroc]

My N95 8GB has gps built in and with Nokia maps and voice navgation, it works a treat. In fairness though, it's not really relevant for me as this is such a small country, I kind of know where everything is! It was useful though when visiting a friend's new pad over christmas. it's the only time since getting it in November that I've used that feature. A buudy has the Garmin and he loves it though.

I read that they asked Clarkson to host the US Topgear but he refused as he 'did not want to spend more time in the US than he needed to'! Actually he really does give the US a right old bashing any chance he gets. I'm really not sure how this show will work as it's more about the the three lads and thier high-jinks than the cars themselves. The numbers are astonishing with that show. In the UK they get nearly 10 million viewers and 350 million around the world.

Oh, forgot to mention I ordered the XC70 today!!! Due in June. It's the D5 Diesel in SE Lux trim. I'll post some pics and more info later.... It's dinner time now...

[Dougie085]

Can you blame him for hating the US :) lol.

[Lex]

been building 9 Kingcat XLRs, these things been wearing me out, lol. I started them on Friday. So, I been working regular on them. Unless I made an error soldering, I'm about 90% finished with them finally. Just have to put the connectors together, and do some heat shring logos. Also built one other pair and 1 pair of speaker cables. All going to international buyers.

[Chris D]

Paul, you're funny, checking into those stocks. :)

Perhaps Richard Simmons could host the US Topgear? :)

"Hi everybodeeeeeee!!!!! Now today, we're looking at the new BMW 325i. Isn't it cute? I just love the heated seats, it feels so good with my little shortie shorts..."

[Dougie085]

Lol...

[Lex]

shortie shorts? oh my... What has happened to Chris.

[Chris D]

perhaps

[Chris D]

a flip

[Chris D]

for me?

[Chris D]

http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Sections/TVNews/Today%20show/Today%20Pets/2008/January/Breed%20Photos/lg_Shih_Tzu.hmedium.jpg http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Sections/TVNews/Today%20show/Today%20Pets/2008/January/Breed%20Photos/lg_Beagle.hmedium.jpg

flip?

[RobP]

Hello Gents :later:

Here is a poster case design that I been working on, now I have to render the top center to grayscale gradient so I can carve the relief on my CNC machine, should be neat when I get it done (if I ever get it done :lol: ). I may make some changes to the bottom part so it matches more of the top.

Chris.....this is the one I was talking about sometime back.....

http://i225.photobucket.com/albums/dd122/soundgravy/decoposter.jpg

[dyazdani]

That will be cool!

[Chris D]

Nice, Robert!

Well, I'm out the door. Probably check in from Japan or something.

[Lex]

pretty cool looking poster case Robert. Nice work!

[aud19]

Is there a story with the dog pics Chris...? :scratchhead:

I LOVE the Alpine GPS unit Danish :T That with their 7" touchscreen 2DIN head unit are a wicked combo! :yesnod: Those Garmin's are nice too Paul. I think I'm going to try to get one for my folks for a future birthday/Christmas present.

Congrats on the new Volvo Vincent...now quit doddling with the pics...lol

Looks like I'm actually dating again guys....we'll see how this goes...:lol:

[Trevor Schell]

Hi Guys! :later:
Hope everybody is doing well!!
I am on vacation this week and definately need it
more than I have ever needed one!

[Paul Wu]

Hey Trev, enjoy your time off.

Just getting ready to go out for some dinner and dancing.

[Lex]

Hey Trevor, nice to see you drop in. Hope you didn't hurt yourself in the fall...

http://fotogafer.smugmug.com/photos/245528654-X3.jpg

[Chris D]

Hey, a Trevor sighting!

Is there a story with the dog pics Chris...? :scratchhead:
Nope, just found a couple random pics for the flip.

Looks like I'm actually dating again guys....we'll see how this goes...:lol:
Well... who are WE to judge whether you're dating guys? :)

[Alloroc]

OK Lads here's some pics of the new XC70. As I mentioned I went for the Diesel, a 2.5td with AWD. I ordered it in SE Lux - that's pretty much fully loaded with almost all bells and whistles. Optional extras were the 4C Chassis, Dynaudio ice, Ipod/usb integration(? - an extra!), integrated bluetooth hands free, 18" alloys, ventilated leather and some other bits and pieces - a new roofbox for example. Pics of the color and trim are hard to come by but here are a few...

http://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/12/11034_2_12.jpg

http://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/12/11044_2_1.jpg

http://images.leftlanenews.com/content/12-2008-volvo-xc70.jpg

My notes from the drive.... Ride was really smooth and comfortable. It's not the sportiest by that's not what I'm looking for, although the advanced mode o n the 4c chassis settings stiffens it all up a bit and it handles better - good for B roads. Cabin is quiet and little or no diesel rattle at startup and none when cruising. Autobox is smooth and quite responsive. It's a heavy car so performance is quite mild but again, I'm not after that. Being a diesel, mid range is where the fun is and overtaking acceleration is decent. Economy is good - I should get an average of 35mpg.


So, role on June.

[Lex]

nice ride Vincent!

Funny Chris, I had the same thought when I read Jason's statement. ;)

[aud19]

Well... who are WE to judge whether you're dating guys? :)

Oh you guys are HILARIOUS!! :roll: :p: :lol:

No.... Guys (you idiots :lol: )*comma* I'm dating nice, pretty girls again :T :p:

Pretty swanky looking ride Vincent! :T I'm really itching to get a C30 for my next, next car... hope they come out with a sportier version by then with a bit tighter handling.... and maybe AWD!! :P

Hey Trev :later:

[Lex]

HAHAHA We gotchu good. Hope you find yourself a strapping big handsome dude. :rofl:

[Dougie085]

When he says big he isn't necessarily referring to the guys height either. :B

I picked up a new game to play with my racing wheel. Collin McRae Dirt. Awesome Rally game if your into realistic simulation! It's quite hard though.

[aud19]

HAHAHA We gotchu good. Hope you find yourself a strapping big handsome dude. :rofl:

Must be the stellar school system you have in the US...obviously none of you can read :p: :twisted: :lol:

[RobP]

No.... Guys (you idiots :lol: )*comma* I'm dating nice, pretty girls again :T :p:


:huh: Did you already go through all of the mean, ugly girls in town? That was quick! :p: :lol:

[aud19]

Did I mention how hilarious you guys are....? :roll:

No Robert, I only went through a couple ugly girls, thought I'd give the pretty ones a shot again :p: :lol:

[Alloroc]

Pretty swanky looking ride Vincent! :T I'm really itching to get a C30 for my next, next car... hope they come out with a sportier version by then with a bit tighter handling.... and maybe AWD!!


When I was at the dealer, ther had the new C30 R-Design in the showroom. It looked really great - it also had these cool looking 18" rims. It's a cosmetic pack with an anti-roll bar for stiffness. They had it with the T5 - I drove a T5 in the V50 and I can tell you that's really a quick car. The salesman told me that Volvo are probably going to launh a C30R soon (the R is akin to a Beemer M) It'll pack AWD and 300hp.

Here's more pics of the R-Design....

[aud19]

The salesman told me that Volvo are probably going to launh a C30R soon (the R is akin to a Beemer M) It'll pack AWD and 300hp.

Here's more pics of the R-Design....

OK where's the pics!! That sounds like good times!! :P :yesnod:

[RobP]

I was looking around this weekend for 3D modeling programs to use with my CNC machine and came across Zbrush. I downloaded the trial version, its really a neat program, but a wee bit pricey. You guys should check out some of the work people have done with it. :E

http://www.zbrushcentral.com/zbc/featured2col.php

My favorite is this rendering of Frankenstein

http://www.zbrushcentral.com/zbc/attachment.php?attachmentid=24046

[Alaric]

Must be the stellar school system you have in the US...obviously none of you can read :p: :twisted: :lol:

Hey , now! we'uns got good lernin in the you-nited states . mAybe not as fanciful as you furriners , but it's second only to-well , third to-well , we ain't in last place!

Hey , Doug! How 'bout them Vols! (speaking of grammatical manslaughter :oops: ) I have never been an OSU fan so I can root for your team. :T

[Alloroc]

OK where's the pics!! That sounds like good times!! :P :yesnod:


Doh!

http://www.swedespeed.com/gallery/gallery2.php?mode=album&album=/FWD%20and%20AWD/C30/R-design

[Lex]

The vols been kickin-a$$. Really got a great coach now, no matter what they do from here on out, but it looks really really good at number 6 on the AP pole after 16 games, with 1 loss. A great game was between TN and Ole Miss last week or so ago, wow, what a great college game.

[dyazdani]

Looked out the window yesterday and this is what was staring back at me...up on the roof. Guess he saw my bird in the window.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v92/dyazdani/Photos/Cat1012008.jpg

[Kevin P]

Ooh, nice Danish. Nothing like a cat to make a picture into a work of art. ;)

Every photographer should have at least one cat, as then they'll produce lots of great pics. :B

Does your bird talk? Did he say "I tawt I taw a puddy tat!?" :lol:

Yeh, ar ejamakashun system iz the finust in thee werld. Espeshiale afta ar geenius prezidunt passed thuh no runt left beehind akt... :p:

Jason, if you ever decide to give mean, ugly girls another try, I have one to send your way. A truly evil one, she is. We need to get her out of our hair, so if you could keep her company, and keep her busy, that would be most appreciated. We'll ship her UPS. I'll even pay you to take her out of our hands.

Yes, it's Heather's mother I'm talking about. :twisted: Not Heather, she's sweet and beautiful. ;)

Gee, I stay off here for a weekend and I miss a Trevor sighting. Hi Trev, don't be so shy. ;)

Nice Volvo Lee. I wonder if they've gotten their reliability issues resolved after Found On Road Dead bought them a decade ago. I would hope so by now.

[Paul Wu]

Morning. Never check work email before getting to work. ;) I've sent a short reply to an email.

A bloody day on the world stock market. Not for the faint of heart. I am looking for some buying opportunities.

Planning a trip in Feb, not the best time to travel but it is for business.

My wife has an opportunity to travel to Europe so we will be discussing tonight. I think it could be an experience. Only problem is I can't go. But I will have my A3 by then. :) Road Trip!

Fifth Gear is back on, so just getting that episode right now.

I read about Top Gear being done for the US. It will be interesting if they can keep the format. I wonder who they would get for the hosts.

Lex: I like that landscape pic.

Time for some breakfast.

[Lex]

Thanks Paul, just a quick snap, I thought the lighting was right for it late in the afternoon, so I pulled off to shoot it. I drive by there frequently when going to the smokies.

[Lex]

Good cat shot there Danish. Has that look of oh crap, I am caught in his eyes...

Two more snaps, going wide or in this case "tall"

http://fotogafer.smugmug.com/photos/245528394-XL.jpg

http://fotogafer.smugmug.com/photos/245528430-XL.jpg

[Dougie085]

Hey guys whats going on? I've been working on my taxes today...fun stuff.

[aud19]

Getting busy at work!!! 8O :thud:

Thanks for the offer Kevin but I think I'll stick with pretty and sweet instead :lol:

:later:

[aud19]

Setup!

[Kevin P]

Flip? Oops, not yet...

[Kevin P]

Flip? Oops, not yet... again...

[Kevin P]

Flip? Oops, not yet... again again...

[Kevin P]

Ok, there we go... had to work for that one, running is hard, I'm outta shape! :thud:

Another pic of the Juno Twins:

http://www.patzcatz.com/twojunos/dsc03019_sm.jpg

The one in the foreground is sold. Just waiting for payment, and she gets shipped out!

[RobP]

How many keyboards do you have Kevin? Do you collect or just tinker with them and sell them?

[Dougie085]

Been rethinking the idea of building an amp and thinking about just buying a used ATI 1807 7 channel amp. They are very beasty and weight in at only 120lbs :) 20hz-20khz with no more then .03% THD. If I did this would give me time to finish my speakers and build the center and surrounds.

[Kevin P]

How many keyboards do you have Kevin? Do you collect or just tinker with them and sell them?I have two of my own (plus one rack module), and I look for broken ones on eBay to fix up and sell. That way I can try out different ones without Heather divorcing me. 8O

Synthesizers are addictive, especially vintage ones.

[RobP]

That way I can try out different ones without Heather divorcing me. 8O



Sounds like the logic that I used to have, that was until I just started keeping everything. :lol:

[Lex]

coming to you live from my 14" notebook with docking station that I loaned to my daughter some time ago. She went through a couple of hard drives in it as I recall. mostly because she ran it without the docking station and sitting flat on a bed and let it overheat. I am ashamed to say I left it sitting on my coffee table for about a year? plugged in, with a new 60 gig drive sitting on top of the computer waiting for me to put it in. So, finally, last night, I took a notion to pop the top and do the job. I got a bit frustrated with a network USB network wireless transmitter last night, finally went with an old card style I had tonight, and it worked right off...

[Paul Wu]

Isn't that how technology is supposed to work? Just plug it in and it works.

The laptop we got for work did something wierd on the weekend. The video played fine through the projector, but the powerpoint had a wired line on one side. I'll have to see it, but it could be something to do with the video out? I'd hate to go through warranty.

Tried to clean up the desk, but got interupted many times today.

They are doing some construction out in our office lane, so I'm not sure if our parking is blocked or not. You would think they would provide some kind of notice for us.

Well the day is drawing to a close. I am sure to get a call from our Treasurer at 5pm to discuss our financials. :roll:

I might have actually had the call, but I was driving so I didn't answer the cell. No message so I don't know who it was.

[Lex]

guess again, it says can't find drivers, so you have to install the software first, then reboot, then load the linksic PCMCIA card in today's case... It's a Sony Vaio 14" computer with docing station, a few years old. Not sure on CPU, memory is probably marginal, but performance for surfing seems good Nice and compact without the dock. Not that far from Mac "Air" whooo hooo.

Where's Nick been? NIIIICCKKKK!

Got slick here today, rain freezing instantly on contact with 28 degrees. I got stuck at a gas station for 3 hours, I sat in my car, listened to news reports, counted sirens and tried to stay warm drinking coffee. Bridges over river were gridlocked, they closed 2 and 1 was sitting still. Ambulence overturned with a patient inside, wrecks everywhere. Police said don't call 911 unless there is injury in wreck, just change information and go on! I said, shoot, all this crap, I'm sittin' still!!! So, I Sat from 7:10, til 9:45.

[Lex]

How'd you come out on the Junko board Kev? ;)

Quite in here lately...

[Alloroc]

Howdy all. Yeah, it is quiet I suppose. It's a little manic at work right now and that's keeping me busy. I'm finalising budgets, project and staffing needs for 2008. I'm also heading to our London office on Sunday for a few days. I'll travel early Sunday so I'll have the day there. That should be fun. I'm back Wed.

Jeepers Doug, that sounds pretty hairy and chilly! Funny, I always keep a sleeping bag in my car at this time of the year - for these eventualities. My Dad made me do it years ago. He cot caught in a storm years ago and spent over 12 hours stuck. I remember the panic when he didn't come home and the relief when he did.

[Lex]

It was a "white knuckle" event for a while there! The good news is, I could turn my heater on to warm the car up some, and could go inside if I really wanted to.

But I had plenty of jackets, had dressed warm, so I was fine as far as cold goes. I didn't let myself get to cold. Oh well, was ok for me. Many others not so fortunate that tried to "go" on sheets of ice that would up crashed into poles, walls, other cars, heard of one in a creek even.

[Paul Wu]

Now I don't have a sleeping bag, but I do have a fleece blanket in the car just in case. Some juice in treta pack and water to hold me over in a small emergency, oh and an old pair of runners, in case I have to hike it out.

In the past I have also carried a portable battery, this can give me a jump start or I can use it as an outlet to run laptops or whatever. I've used it for road trips to run a laptop.

Another cool but nice day today. I could get used to this. :)

A quiet day in the office as a lot of people are out of town. Might actually get some serious work done.

[cuda65]

Doesn't sound like fun Doug. Glad you waited it out and got home safe.

[Kevin P]

I guess that's one problem with living in the south, when it does get icy, no one knows how to drive in it and all hell breaks loose. Us tough Yankees know how to drive through anything. In fact, a snowstorm yields me an easier commute for me than a bright sunny morning, believe it or not, if there are no big accidents messing things up.

Of course the drawback is, if the weather is crappy, we still have to go into work. Schools usually close though.

Just got some new EL84s for my tubicle system amp. One of the original JJs was starting to get staticky. I got another set of JJs, a pair of TADs, and a pair of Electro-Harmonix. I'll try them all and see which ones I like the sound of best, then sell the others.

[Lex]

I had hiking boots, 4 or 5 pairs of gloves, a heavy sweatshirt, light down coat, all weather coat for over that, winter hat, hood, another jacket with fleece lining, a towel, and was wearing a long sleeve knit, and a sweater, lol. So, I was "good". I basically cacooned myself and was very comfy. :-)

[Paul Wu]

That sounds down right cozy.

Not much to report. Slow going on the work as I have been taking care of more admin duties. Which just reminded me of a couple more things to add to my list.

[aud19]

That does sound like a hell of traffic jam Doug! 8O

Still busy here too! :confused:

:later:

[RobP]

Hello gents,


Doug, that didn't sound like much fun being stranded like that, at least you kept warm and didn't have to resort to cannibalism to survive. :)

Its been really cold here, Im ready for Spring!


Been really busy here the past couple of days, been working on my postercase design in the evening, this one is turning out to be quite the challenge to get right on the wood carving machine, I have been messing with that Zbrush 3D program and it looks promising for what I need it to do..................I really do think though that it would just be easier for me to carve out what I need by hand. ;)

[Dougie085]

Yeah its been something like 5-15 degrees here the last few days.

[Lex]

It wasn't really a lot of fun, but sometimes, you just have to be patient and wait it out. I will admit, this is the first time I ever stuck out somewhere weather related without being "stuck". But from prior ice storms, I know just how dangerous it is.

Who said I didn't eat some p***y to survive, ROFL.

[aud19]

I'm sure you'd let us know if you managed to find a nice lady to "ride the beard" :rofl:

[Lex]

:B I'd never kiss and tell, wait I mean I would always kiss and tell... :lol:

[Paul Wu]

Okay here's my wimp out story.

So I went on vacation in Dec and turned down the thermostat. When we arrived home, the apt was freezing. Turned up the heat, but being an old building it took a while for it to warm up. We decided to headout for dinner rather than stay in a cold home.

Many years ago I went to Shanghai in Dec. I checked the average temps and it was above freezing, usually around 4 to 7 C or around 38-42 F(?) Anyway, I thought no problem I won't bother taking anything really heavy. Buy man, the one thing that I noticed was that there was no central heat anywhere! So it was like colder inside some places than outside. Of course hotels, and some restaurants, etc were better. This was back around in 1989. Luckily I had some wool pants that I ended up wearing everyday! Plus a couple of sweaters. I now know better. If there is any chance of being out in the cool/cold temps for any length of time, I will dress accordingly. And peel off my layers as needed. Plus most of the time I was there, my mom was visiting relatives and such, so I was pretty much bored and didn't do anything.

[Alloroc]

:B I'd never kiss and tell, wait I mean I would always kiss and tell... :lol:

Now, you know you shouldn't talk with your mouth full..... :rf

[Alloroc]

Here's the C30 R-Design announced for North America...


http://www.swedespeed.com/news/uploads/features/041__scaled_600_002.jpg

[Dougie085]

I have to say I do like that....

[aud19]

Here's the C30 R-Design announced for North America...


http://www.swedespeed.com/news/uploads/features/041__scaled_600_002.jpg

I'd say a google search is in order!!! :P

[aud19]

Damn! Sounds like it's pretty much a cosmetic package.... :rant:

The R-design package for the Volvo C30, S40 and V50 includes a choice between 10 exterior colours and the R-design badge in the grille is accompanied by a range of specially designed exterior and interior details.

Why do car companies always wuss out from building proper sport version! :rant:

[Alloroc]

I'd say a google search is in order!!! :P

Thought you might like that!

Anyway, it's late here - 01:15, I'm away to bed...

[dyazdani]

I'm sure you'd let us know if you managed to find a nice lady to "ride the beard" :rofl:
Oh geez... I get busy for a day and the thread resorts to this?

[Lex]

Hey, we've been bored...

[Lex]

did a Kingcats XLR images a while ago, what you think?

http://fotogafer.smugmug.com/photos/246715364-L.jpg

[dyazdani]

one...

[dyazdani]

two...

[dyazdani]

C...

[dyazdani]

Flip

http://www.swedespeed.com/news/uploads/features/041__scaled_600_002.jpg

[Lex]

man, I always seem to be the setter now. I'm tired of being the setter, I want to be set, lol.

[Alloroc]

Like the cable Doug. Actually, I've been meaning to drop you a line bout cables. I need a HDMI cable and I don't see how something as insignificant ;) as the Atlantic ocean should hold us back! How best to proceed?#

On another note, with Dee finishing up work soon, I'm thinking of getting her puppy. It's something I know she's always wanted but with us both away all day we didn't feel it was fair. Anyhow, any advice ao the wherewithal, ins and outs and pitfalls appreicated.

[Kevin P]

did a Kingcats XLR images a while ago, what you think?

http://fotogafer.smugmug.com/photos/246715364-L.jpgMmm... purty cables. What's that round thing the cable is resting on?

Had a busy night last night. Worked out, made/had dinner, fixed two PCs, boxed up the Juno I sold so I can ship it out, bid on a couple items on eBay (but didn't win), went to bed.

I tried out my new tubes. I bought 3 sets: TADs, JJs, and Electro-Harmonix. I originally had JJs in there, and also have a pair of Sovteks that came with the amp. Tried the TADs first, didn't care for them, too bright, like the Sovteks. Tried the Electro-Harmonix next, they're nice and warm. Then the JJs, like those too. In fact, the EHs and JJs sound almost exactly the same, so I'll keep those and put the Sovteks and TADs up on eBay.

[Lex]

Vincent, we can talk about the HDMI, as you may know I don't make those in house, it is a outside purchase. But it is a very good HDMI, I use them myself.

Thanks on the cables. I am beginning to adopt longer heat shrink on many cables, and positioning the logos back further. This allows a tigher easier bend if necessary for walls and such. I don't really recommend a 90 degree cable angle, but if you must, this makes getting close to that at least, easier.

Kevin, the glass orb is actually a glass stopper for a bottle that is in my glass collection. Laying cables flat isn't always the best for imaging. I came up with this idea as a prop, and I think it works, it creates interest, and puts the cables at a more attractive angle.

I built 11 XLR Kingcats, a pair of copper RCA interconnects and a pair of speaker cables since last Thursday. all shipping today. Cleaned me out of XLRs and just about silver wire too. I promptly reordered for new customers, as well as the Kingcat covering, and shipping boxes. Monday was productive for reorders. Dang shame I lost my business debit card on Sunday, sigh... I had to cancel it and order a new one.

[Alloroc]

Neat. Actually I'm probably in the market for a new subwoofer cable too. Only thing is it needs to be about 5m - perhaps you could pm me the details and we can take it from there.

Anyhow, I'm leaving early this evening. I'm meeting Dee for some dinner and maybe a movie...

[cuda65]

Cable looks great Doug. Sounds like things have picked up a little for you. I may be in need of some more cables in the near future. I will let you know.

[cuda65]

Wow my 500th post. It has taken me awhile to get to this point.
:dancenana: :dothewave: :party: ;b>

[Lex]

Doug, it's spotty, well, was doing nothing, then I had 3 orders. now back to well, nothing. lol. So, who knows, if this is encouraging or just a blip on the radar. I bought materials to be ready, so aiming high. Wait, that's the Air Force, right? Moving forward...

Congrats on 500 posts, dang, you been moving like a snail, lol.

[cuda65]

17,000 more posts and I can pass you up. lol