User-Approved Beginner Turntable Priced at $180 Garners Positive Reviews on Amazon

music streaming platforms from anywhere globally, with just a quick motion. Nonetheless, some people contend that no digital music format can replicate the enjoyment of listening to music on vinyl, and it’s evident that vinyl records are starting to overtake Spotify and Apple Music. You’ve likely come across the notion that vinyl records provide a superior sound experience compared to digital audio. It’s said that vinyl records offer a “warmer” sound in contrast to digital music, and you may also lose some audio nuances in the latter because of the compression techniques utilized for convenient online audio file transfer.

If you wish to experience the sound of vinyl for yourself to form your own opinion, acquiring a turntable is essential. However, turntables can be pricey, and the cost can deter many potential buyers. Fortunately, you don’t have to begin with the high-end segment of the market. You can start with the Audio-Technica AT-LP60X-BK Turntable, which is user-friendly and reasonably priced, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to explore the realm of vinyl records. Even better, this turntable is currently discounted on Amazon, allowing you to purchase it for $180 after a 10% reduction. The turntable has garnered positive feedback from numerous users who have praised it, with some expressing that they were “blown away” by the experience.

Audio-Technica’s affordable turntable is ideal for newcomers to vinyl

Audio-Technica’s AT-LP60X-BK Turntable is an excellent choice for novices as it operates fully automatically. To begin with, a fully automatic turntable does not require you to manually place the needle on the record to initiate playback — in contrast to a manual model. This feature alone makes it a reliable option if you are on the lookout for your first turntable. It operates as a belt-drive two-speed turntable that can alternate between 33 revolutions per minute (rpm) and 45 rpm. The primary drawback is that, similar to many contemporary turntables, it won’t accommodate any vintage 78 rpm records that might have been inherited from your favorite uncle’s collection. The AT-LP60X-BK comes equipped with a phono cartridge featuring a diamond stylus that is replaceable, along with a die-cast aluminum platter.

Additionally, it offers a built-in switchable phono pre-amplifier, which isn’t always standard even among pricier turntables. Thanks to this feature, you won’t need to purchase an external one if your audio receiver or portable speakers do not include one. This means it’s possible to connect the turntable directly to your audio source, such as powered speakers.

The Result of VPcabs Virtual Pinball Machines After Shark Tank Season 7

During season 7 of “Shark Tank”, in episode 28, the Sharks were invited to engage in pinball — but with a twist. Traditional pinball machine elements like the ball, physical bumpers, and flippers were substituted with graphics on a high-definition LED screen. Developed by VPcabs, every aspect of a conventional pinball machine was transformed to resemble a video game. Each virtual pinball machine created by the company houses hundreds of games accessible on a single digital pinball cabinet.

The main concept aimed to deliver all the enjoyment and excitement of classic pinball, but elevated through a digital interface. Traditional pinball machines are large and cumbersome, and owning multiple units occupies considerable space. By combining several games into a singular cabinet, owners can save space in their home, arcade, or business.

VPcabs wasn’t universally embraced by all the “Shark Tank” investors; only two expressed interest, and ultimately just one Shark endorsed VPcabs’ virtual pinball machines. Following the completion of the deal in 2016, VPcabs has persisted in selling virtual pinball cabinets with various options available. Models can even be tested prior to purchase at the company’s physical site in Ohio. If you’re in the market, you might want to check out these 5 Amazon products that enable you to create a retro arcade at home.

Details of the Shark Tank deal

Brad Baker presented VPcab digital pinball machines on season 7 of “Shark Tank”. Several cabinets were arranged for the Sharks to try while he made his pitch. Brad sought $200,000 for a 10% equity stake in the company. While interacting with one of the machines, Mark Cuban remarked that the digital version was “better than traditional pinball.” Although they appeared to be having fun, Cuban, Lori Greiner, Robert Herjavec, and Kevin O’Leary opted not to pursue a deal.

Daymond John was the sole Shark to offer a counterproposal of $200,000 for 30%, ultimately agreeing on 25%. While the agreement proved beneficial for VPcabs, Mark Cuban withdrew due to VPcabs not possessing the software for the games. According to the company’s website, VPcabs cannot include pinball table ROMs with its machines and instead directs customers to a third-party SSD hard drive for installation. And if you prefer not to have a large arcade machine occupying space, the Antstream Arcade offers over 1,400 classic games on Xbox.

What happened to VPcabs?

The “Shark Tank” deal turned out to be extremely fruitful for VPcabs as the company continues to thrive today with both digital and physical locations. For those interested in one of the company’s virtual pinball machines, prices start at $6,295 for the Vertigo NXT Multicade system and go up to $9,895 for the Ultra VP OLED edition. This deal would become one of Daymond John’s most successful on “Shark Tank”, leading to VPcabs generating over $1 million in sales the following year.

VPcabs originated from Brad’s garage, where he and his brother hand-built each unit from old machines. Constructing each cabinet took three to four weeks. Today, the virtual pinball machines are manufactured with automation and a factory-style system, enabling them to produce multiple units daily. Another option is exploring these 5 amazing Costco finds to create your own retro arcade.

The Comeback of Drive-In Cinemas: A Sentimental Film-Viewing Experience

iconic ’80s computers are being reinvented as clamshell handheld devices. Surprisingly, the same phenomenon is occurring with physical entertainment media — namely, DVDs and Blu-ray discs. 

A study from the Digital Entertainment Group highlights that 4K Blu-ray sales rose by 12% in 2025 compared to 2024. This rise took place even as overall physical media sales fell by 9.3% relative to the previous year, reaching a total of $870 million in 2025 in the United States. However, this decline was significantly less severe than the 20% decreases seen in years prior. Considering the widespread availability of streaming media options, a 12% rise in 4K Blu-ray sales signifies a considerable number of individuals choosing to invest in physical media.

There is no single cause for the resurgence of physical discs, but the trend might relate to Blu-ray’s ability to consistently deliver 4K quality, while streaming media’s resolution can fluctuate based on bandwidth. Additionally, there’s the point that when you purchase digital media instead of a physical version, you don’t truly own the content — it could be removed if a platform ceases operations or access is revoked. Blu-ray discs and DVDs are not subject to these concerns, and as an added perk, you can always resell them if you need some extra cash. Whatever the reason, it appears that younger collectors — from millennials to Gen Z — are increasingly opting for tangible ownership over digital acquisitions, which is slowing the market’s downturn in recent times.

Blu-ray provides significantly superior video and audio quality compared to streaming

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Comparison of Battery Lifespan: Duracell vs. Energizer

**Duracell Vs. Energizer Batteries: Which One Lasts Longer?**

In the modern era, where electronic gadgets are everywhere, the need for dependable batteries is ever-present. Even with the popularity of rechargeable batteries, single-use alkaline options remain vital, especially for devices demanding consistent power. Among the prominent names in this sector are Duracell and Energizer, both recognized for their quality and efficiency. Nevertheless, when evaluating longevity, which brand reaffirms its superiority?

**The Clash of Giants: Duracell and Energizer**

Duracell and Energizer stand as the major players in the alkaline battery realm. The contention regarding which brand has a longer lifespan has even sparked legal challenges, including Duracell suing Energizer for claims of misleading marketing. For consumers in search of a clear verdict, evidence indicates that Energizer, particularly its lithium Ultimate line, holds an advantage in longevity.

**Capacity and Effectiveness**

When assessing battery effectiveness, capacity quantified in milliampere-hours (mAh) is a crucial element. Energizer’s Ultimate brand surpasses the competition with its superior capacity. Nonetheless, when looking at more budget-friendly alternatives such as Energizer Max and Duracell, the variance is minimal. Energizer Max might provide a slight benefit, yielding only a minute or two of additional energy compared to Duracell. Standard Energizer batteries, conversely, do not measure up against Duracell and various other brands.

**Environmental Effects on Battery Performance**

It’s vital to recognize that environmental factors can greatly influence battery efficiency. Cold conditions, for example, can hinder the chemical reactions within alkaline batteries, diminishing their performance and operational time. Under such circumstances, Energizer’s lithium-powered Ultimate batteries shine, as their chemistry is less affected by low temperatures, guaranteeing prolonged power.

**Duracell: The Sprinter, Energizer: The Long-Distance Runner**

While total lifespan is a significant parameter, it is not the sole consideration. The reliability of a battery, assessed through its voltage and resistance, holds equal significance. Duracell batteries are recognized for their low resistance, delivering stable energy for devices with substantial power requirements. In contrast, Energizer Ultimate batteries provide higher voltage and resistance, making them suitable for devices that utilize energy gradually.

**Financial Considerations**

Cost is an additional aspect to evaluate when deciding between Duracell and Energizer. While Energizer Ultimate batteries offer outstanding performance, they carry a heavier price tag. A pack of Energizer Ultimates is more pricey than a larger bundle of Duracells or Energizer Maxes. Despite the upfront higher expense, the durability and reliability of Energizer Ultimate batteries might warrant the cost for certain consumers.

**Conclusion**

In the end, the decision between Duracell and Energizer hinges on personal preferences and requirements. For those requiring enduring power in harsh environments, Energizer’s Ultimate line stands out as a top choice. However, for general usage, both Duracell and Energizer Max provide comparable performance, positioning either as a dependable selection. Whether you value capacity, stability, or price, comprehending the advantages of each brand can assist you in making a well-informed decision.

Dispelling 4 Widespread Misconceptions Regarding Battery Charging

In the era of smartphones, wearables, laptops, and electric vehicles, our daily lives are profoundly dependent on battery power, particularly lithium-ion batteries. Despite progress in battery innovation, numerous misconceptions about battery charging continue to circulate. Here are four widespread myths that you should discard:

1. **New batteries must be charged to 100% prior to initial use**: This misconception originated from the era of nickel-cadmium (Ni-Cd) batteries, which experienced a “memory effect” that could diminish their capacity. However, lithium-ion batteries do not suffer from this problem, so there is no requirement to charge them to 100% before the first use.

2. **Charging your phone to 100% will harm your battery**: While it is accurate that leaving your phone plugged in after it reaches 100% can generate stress due to trickle charging, lithium-ion batteries are not impacted by the memory effect. Features like optimized charging assist in reducing possible damage by completing the last 20% just before you awaken.

3. **You must fully discharge your battery before recharging**: This belief also arises from the memory effect of older Ni-Cd batteries. For lithium-ion batteries, it’s preferable to prevent complete discharges, as each complete cycle from 0% to 100% contributes to the battery’s lifespan. Charging within 20% to 80% can enhance the battery’s longevity.

4. **You need to use the official charger from the manufacturer of your phone**: While utilizing the official charger guarantees compatibility, third-party chargers can be safely used if they align with the device’s power requirements. Confirm that the voltage and fast-charging protocols are compatible to prevent potential harm.

Comprehending these myths can assist you in preserving your device’s battery health and making well-informed choices regarding charging habits.

The Security of Operating a Computer Without an Uninterruptible Power Supply

laptop you are utilizing without a battery. Since unexpected system shutdowns can result in harm to both your hardware and software, a UPS contains a battery that isn’t abruptly disconnected when power fails. Your computer transitions to this battery during a power interruption without shutting down, allowing it to operate for a limited duration.

A UPS can indeed be beneficial, but is it truly essential to safeguard your PC? For the majority of users, it’s an excellent method to shield against multiple hazards, yet it isn’t an obligatory acquisition. If you reside in an area that seldom experiences power interruptions and typically doesn’t encounter occurrences like brownouts or voltage surges, you can manage perfectly well without a UPS unless you encounter some misfortune with a significant power surge. However, we still advise utilizing a UPS, as the initial investment is far less than replacing your expensive GPU in the unlikely event that power issues actually cause damage.

In addition to providing backup power for a brief duration, certain types of UPS units also offer further advantages. A line-interactive UPS, for instance, has the capability to monitor and regulate the incoming electrical current delivered to your PC. This can protect your hardware from being harmed by “dirty power” situations such as undervoltage or power spikes, even in the absence of a blackout.

How outages and voltage spikes harm your PC

The Explanation for the Absence of Color-Coding in USB-C Ports as Compared to USB-A Ports

knowing the type of USB port you possess. It is hoped that a focused article explaining why many USB-A ports feature color coding and the lack of it in most USB-C ports will assist in embedding this information in your memory.

The brief overview is that USB-A ports are predominantly color-coded to indicate the version of USB they accommodate. One might then infer, particularly given its straightforward, reversible design, that USB-C does not need color coding due to some overarching, standardized features. Regrettably, the contrary is true: USB-C is devoid of color coding because there are an excessive number of variables to conveniently signify with a single hue.

Understanding the colors (and the absence of them in USB-C)