Tech News

  • Turtle Beach Vulcan II TKL Pro Mechanical Keyboard Review @ APH Networks

    Published: Wednesday, July 10, 2024 | By: Dennis

    The world of mechanical keyboards has been getting rather polarized with certain companies just offering a mechanical option while others are allowing users to customize just about everything.  Of course, there is a cost barrier associated with each option and makes you wonder where you should go and what the benefits are.

    Well, if you are the type who lies awake at night wondering if you should get the red or black with O-rings then you might want to shield your eyes and look away cause Turtle Beach if offering a Pro keyboard with a laptop feel with Hall Effect switches.

    Yes, you read that correctly, Hall Effect!!!

    The Turtle Beach Vulcan II TKL Pro is a slim tenkeyless mechanical keyboard that offers control and customization in every single keystroke. 

    I'm not sure if I hyped this up enough or, over hyped it but, I'm not really a fan of the design or color but, if you know then you know.

  • be quiet! Dark Base Pro 901 White Computer Case Review @ APH Networks

    Published: Tuesday, July 2, 2024 | By: Dennis

    I have reviewed a number of extremely large computer cases and while I find them to be a pointless waste of material there are some mentally unstable computer enthusiasts feel they are the cats meow.

    APH Networks has a review up of the beQuiet! Dark Base Pro 901 in White.  This is a case I reviewed about a year ago and during CES 2024 we got our first glimpse of the White edition.  Overall, the chassis is identical and will likely get the unstable boyz all juicy for their wannabe white-out mods.

    The be quiet! Dark Base Pro 901 White computer case remains on top for its quantity of features and quality of build.

    The one good thing I can say about the Dark Base Pro 901 is that the removable motherboard tray makes for an excellent test bench, and might be one of the primary reasons you buy one. happy smile

  • KLEVV Introduces the All-New Fit V DDR5 Gaming/Overclocking Memory

    Published: Tuesday, July 2, 2024 | By: Dennis

    June 27 , 2024, Hong Kong - KLEVV, the premier consumer memory and storage brand introduced by Essencore, is excited to unveil the brand-new FIT V DDR5 gaming memory with a sleek, ultra-low-profile design.

    GAME CHANGING NEW LOW PROFILE DESIGN
    KLEVV's FIT V DDR5 gaming memory modules are available in 16GB(16GBx1) and 32GB(16GBx2) kits, with diverse clock speeds of 5600MT/s, 6000MT/s, and 6400MT/s. Meticulously crafted for gamers, content creators, and casual users on a budget, these modules offer cutting-edge features and top-tier performance at an attractive price. They boast a streamlined, ultra-low-profile 33mm form factor, made possible by an innovative aluminum heat spreader with a contemporary minimalist aesthetic, finished in an eye-catching white hue. This design significantly boosts performance and enhances the visual appeal of any build.

    SUPERCHARGED WITH NEXT-GEN TECHNOLOGY
    The FIT V DDR5 gaming memory modules offer cutting-edge features at an attractive price. Superior KLEVV memory technology, including a built-in PMIC, ensures consistent performance with efficient power delivery and dependability. KLEVV's signature multilayer PCB design improves signal strength and robustness. The FIT V DDR5 modules also incorporate a precision thermal sensor for optimal performance calibration and on-die ECC for effective error correction, ensuring peak functionality and reliability. The FIT V DDR5 gaming memory readily supports INTEL XMP 3.0 and AMD EXPO technology to extract maximum performance.

    APPROVED BY LEADING MOTHERBOARD BRANDS
    KLEVV takes pride in the exceptional quality of its products, achieved through superior hardware and engineering expertise. This commitment ensures that the FIT V DDR5 gaming memory modules excel in the QVL tests conducted by globally renowned, top-tier motherboard brands. Whether for the latest AAA games, unparalleled productivity in content creation, or casual use, the FIT V DDR5 gaming memory modules are ready to deliver blazing-fast performance.

    WARRANTY AND AVAILABILITY
    The KLEVV FIT V DDR5 gaming memory comes with a lifetime peace of mind warranty and will be available from  July 2024. KLEVV products are distributed by Integral Memory plc in the United Kingdom/ France/ Spain/ Germany. Consumers may visit Amazon sites for online purchases.

  • Noctua releases its NH-D15 G2 next-gen flagship model CPU cooler and NF-A14x25r G2 fans

    Published: Tuesday, July 2, 2024 | By: Dennis

    Noctua today released its long-awaited NH-D15 G2 next-gen flagship model CPU cooler and NF-A14x25r G2 round-frame 140mm fans. Continuing the legacy of the iconic NH-D15 and its NF-A15 fans, the new G2 products come packed with Noctua’s latest technologies and have been carefully refined in all respects to provide even better quiet cooling performance than their award-winning predecessors.

    “Our G2 products have been years in the making and it feels amazing to finally be able to offer the first of them to our customers”, says Roland Mossig (Noctua CEO). “We faced various challenges in both design and manufacturing, but we’ve cut no corners and gone the extra mile to make sure that the G2’s will be worthy successors to some of our most iconic models. When you have them in your hands, I’m confident that you’ll be able to sense some of the dedication and perseverance that went into creating these fans and coolers.”

    These fans were shown during Computex and aim to redefine focal flow fan designs.  For more information check out the link below.

  • AMD FidelityFX FSR 3.1 Review - Frame Generation for Everyone @ TechPowerUp

    Published: Tuesday, July 2, 2024 | By: Dennis

    As GPUs get more powerful there becomes an increasingly larger cache unused potential.  NVIDIA used this to start manipulating the visual output.  First it was the generation of 3D images which later became Frame Generation, Upscaling and DLSS.  Granted some of those tasks were dedicated to specific sections of the chip, or could be considered a completely separate processor (similar to early PhysX)

    One of the biggest contributors to overall Frame Per Second (FPS) performance is Upscaling.  This is the process of taking a smaller image and making it larger with extra points for when the upscaled image looks better than the source.  Combine that with Frame Generation and you can make a substandard POS computer have playable framerates without a major hit in image quality.

    AMD's new FidelityFX Super Resolution 3.1 update (FSR 3.1) features improvements to upscaling quality and Frame Generation. It is now possible to run FSR Frame Generation without any upscaling, or combine it with DLSS, which finally gives GeForce 30 gamers a framegen option.

    I'm not sure if the provided "quote" is correct but, the article seems to clear things up and even provides examples.

  • YEYIAN GAMING Unveils the MIRAGE Gaming PC Cases and the Power-Packed MIRAGE Gaming PCs Equipped GeForce™ RTX™ 4000/4000 Super Graphics Cards

    Published: Thursday, June 20, 2024 | By: Dennis

    Boasting an optimized liquid and air cooling system, the MIRAGE X and MIRAGE S Gaming PC case guarantees peak performance and robust protection for NVIDIA® GeForce™ RTX™ 4000 and 4000 SUPER graphics cards. Now available in two YEYIAN GAMING MIRAGE desktop PC models.

    San Diego, California, June 18th, 2024 – YEYIAN GAMING, a global leader in the design and manufacturing of innovative pre-built gaming PCs, peripherals, and computer components, today is excited to unveil the MIRAGE X E-ATX full-tower PC cases, along with two MIRAGE-housed gaming desktop models. These products are engineered to support the latest NVIDIA® GeForce™ RTX™ 4000 and 4000 SUPER series graphics cards, 13th and 14th gen Intel® Core™, and AMD® Ryzen™ 9 processors. They promise outstanding thermal performance, advanced cable management, and an immersive gaming experience designed specifically for gamers and content creators who demand top-tier, AI-enhanced computing power.

    The YEYIAN MIRAGE X gaming PC cases are crafted to enhance the gaming experience, blending aesthetic elegance with functional prowess for enthusiasts and content professionals. The MIRAGE X, a full-tower E-ATX case, features a sturdy 1.0 mm metal chassis and customizable tempered glass, allowing gamers to showcase their stylish builds and RGB light setups. It supports comprehensive cooling options with space for liquid cooling systems with up to a 420 mm radiator in the front and 360mm on top. Nine system fans can be installed, ensuring optimal performance even under extreme conditions. The spacious interior accommodates graphics cards up to 420 mm long and supports an optional vertical mounting with a graphics card holder. This case also offers advanced cable management and versatile storage solutions, accommodating both SSDs and HDDs with integrated HD Audio and high-speed USB Type-A and Type-C ports, enhancing connectivity.

    The MIRAGE series PC case is expertly crafted to accommodate gaming components, combining impeccable form with exceptional functionality. The MIRAGE X is especially suited for gamers and creators seeking a spacious yet compact platform that supports high-performance gaming systems without sacrificing efficiency or aesthetics. This case exemplifies YEYIAN's dedication to quality and innovation, offering a dependable and visually impressive foundation for constructing the ultimate gaming setups. More than mere protective enclosures, these cases are essential elements of any advanced gaming configuration, engineered to fulfill the evolving requirements of modern gaming and content creation.

    The new MIRAGE series PC case is also available in two distinct YEYIAN GAMING MIRAGE configurations; each pre-built PC model offers a variety of CPUs, RTX™ 4000 Super GPUs, DRAM memory, and storage solutions. This range ensures a personalized gaming experience designed to cater to diverse gamers' unique preferences and demands.

    "At YEYIAN GAMING, our vision is to craft experiences that transcend traditional gaming. With the launch of our MIRAGE X PC cases, and MIRAGE pre-built gaming PCs, we are setting new standards in design and functionality. These cases are not just built for gamers; they are forged for the future, integrating AI-enhanced computing-ready features that can adapt to the needs of every user. We are thrilled to empower gamers and content creators with tools that are not only about performance but also about pioneering the integration of AI into their gaming lifestyle." stated Frank Lee, VP of YEYIAN.

    The MIRAGE X E-ATX full-tower gaming PC cases are backed by a one-year warranty from YEYIAN GAMING USA. These premium cases are available for purchase through leading US retailers and online e-tailers.

  • Lexar Expands Their Professional SILVER Card Lineup with Three New Cards

    Published: Thursday, June 20, 2024 | By: Dennis

    These cards provide outstanding performance for an exceptional experience

    San Jose, CA, USA, June 19th, 2024—Lexar, a leading global brand of flash memory solutions, is excited to announce three new additions to its Professional SILVER card lineup: the SILVER PLUS microSDXC™ UHS-I Card, the SILVER PLUS SDXC™ UHS-I Card, and the SILVER SDXC™ UHS-I Card.

    Key Features

    • 205MB/s* max read speed
    • 150MB/s* max write speed (140MB/s* for Professional SILVER SDXC™ UHS-I Card)
    • Rated V30 for up to 4K 60fps video recording
    • Built for durability – drop-proof, temperature-proof, x-ray-proof, shockproof, magnetic-proof, and vibration-resistant**
    • Includes Lexar Recovery Tool and a lifetime limited warranty***

    The SILVER series features outstanding performance of 205MB/s max read speeds to expedite transfers and reduce wait times and 150MB/s write speeds (140MB/s for Professional SILVER SDXC™ UHS-I Card) to capture even fast action. Users can achieve max read speeds by pairing the cards with the Lexar® Dual-Slot USB-A/C Reader, which can simultaneously read an SD card and a microSD card. Rated V30, the SILVER Series cards are designed to record 4K video in up to 60fps. These cards are also designed with real life in mind and are drop-proof, temperature-proof, x-ray-proof, shockproof, magnetic-proof, and vibration-resistant** so they can stand up to all sorts of environments. They also offer users peace of mind with the Lexar Recovery Tool, which allows users to recover accidentally deleted files, and a lifetime limited warranty.

    “Our SILVER series cards offer outstanding performance and reliability for users who want to capture great shots and video in 4K,” said Joey Lopez, Director of Brand Marketing. “We’re excited to offer our customers more product options so that they can find the solution that best suits their needs.”

    The SILVER PLUS SDXC™ UHS-I Card and the SILVER SDXC™ UHS-I Card are compatible with a variety of cameras and other devices, including models from Canon, Sony, Nikon, and more. The SILVER PLUS microSDXC™ UHS-I Card offers extensive compatibility with a variety of devices, including products from DJI, GoPro, Nintendo, and SteamDeck.

    The SILVER PLUS SDXC™ UHS-I Card is available now in 64GB (MSRP of $14.99), 128GB (MSRP of $29.99), and 256GB (MSRP of $59.99). The SILVER SDXC™ UHS-I Card is available now in 128GB (MSRP of $29.99) and 256GB (MSRP of $59.99). The SILVER PLUS microSDXC™ UHS-I Card is available now in 128GB (MSRP of $24.99), 128GB 2-Pack (MSRP of $49.99), 256GB (MSRP of $44.99), and 256GB 2-Pack (MSRP of $89.99). The Dual-Slot USB-A/C Reader is available now at MSRP of $17.99.

    Availability

  • Thermaltake Announces INTEL Pre-Summer Sale with Exclusive Bundles and Discounts

    Published: Monday, June 10, 2024 | By: Dennis

    Get Ready for Summer with Exceptional Deals on High-Performance TT Gaming Pre-built Desktop PCs

    Walnut, California, June 10th – Thermaltake USA, a leader in PC case, cooling, power, and memory solutions, proudly announces its INTEL Pre-Summer Sale, running from June 1 to June 30. This promotion offers exceptional deals on a selection of high-performance gaming desktops powered by INTEL® Core™ series CPUs, including the Reactor i90 - Snow, Reactor i80S - Snow, Avalanche i477T, and Reactor i460T. Each model is equipped with top-tier INTEL® Core™ processors and powerful NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 4000 series graphics cards designed to deliver superior gaming experiences. The sale features exclusive bundle offers and significant discounts, such as free peripherals, memory upgrades, and substantial price reductions. This is an unparalleled opportunity for gamers and PC enthusiasts to upgrade their setups with cutting-edge Intel-powered systems, ensuring enhanced performance and reliability for all their gaming needs.

    “Our collaboration with INTEL on this promotion exemplifies our commitment to the gamer community, allowing us to integrate their cutting-edge processors into our high-performance gaming desktops. The Reactor i90 - Snow, Reactor i80S - Snow, Avalanche i477T, and Reactor i460T are prime examples of this synergy, offering unparalleled power and efficiency. These systems, available at exceptional prices during our INTEL Pre-Summer Sale, provide an excellent opportunity for our customers to enhance their gaming experience with the latest INTEL technology," said Michael Guo, Vice President of Thermaltake USA.

    Promotional Highlights:

    1. Reactor i90 – Snow
    2. Reactor i80S – Snow
    3. Avalanche i477T
    4. Reactor i460T

    Thermaltake's INTEL Pre-Summer Sale presents an excellent opportunity to upgrade to cutting-edge gaming desktops. Each system is engineered for superior performance and features INTEL’s latest processors and high-end components, ensuring an exceptional gaming experience.

    Backed by the Thermaltake USA warranty, the TT Gaming desktop PCs are now readily available for purchase on the Thermaltake webstore and Amazon.

  • LIAN LI Redefines PC Case Layout with the SUP-01 Compact Tower

    Published: Thursday, May 30, 2024 | By: Dennis

    May 30th, 2024, Taipei, Taiwan – LIAN LI Industrial Co. Ltd., a leading manufacturer of chassis and PC accessories, launches the SUP-01, a small tower case that revolutionizes the conventional layout of standard PCs. Engineered with three distinct airflow chambers, each dedicated to essential components—GPU, CPU’s AIO, and motherboard. The SUP-01 positions the GPU at the center of the front panel on a fully adjustable bracket, and accommodates up to a 360 AIO behind the motherboard tray for enhanced cooling efficiency. A non-tinted tempered glass panel on the left side offers a clear view of the main chamber which supports up to regular ATX motherboards and ATX back-connect motherboards, and the PCIe riser bracket with built-in diffused LED strips. Additional LED strips decorate the top edge of the PSU chamber along both the left and front sides of the case. Available in black and white, the SUP-01 retails at an MSRP of $149.99.

    • 45L tower with a compact footprint and cooling performance on par with LANCOOL 216
    • 3 airflow chamber design with front-facing upright graphics card, a dedicated main chamber for the motherboard, and AIO radiator and fans mounted in the right side chamber
    • Comes with 3 pre-installed 120mm PWM fans in the right side chamber
    • Airflow focused with steel mesh panels at the front, top, right side, and rear
    • Supports back-connect ATX motherboards
    • Built-in RGB strip along front and left side panel, and on PCIe riser bracket

    A Revolutionary Concept
    ?
    The SUP-01, with its compact 45-liter enclosure, challenges traditional PC designs by offering a smaller footprint without compromising high-end hardware compatibility. By integrating only the core components, users can swiftly assemble a thermally efficient computer comparable to the LANCOOL 216. Placing the GPU in an upright position at the front of the case enables fresh air intake for optimal GPU performance. The adjustable bracket allows precise positioning of the GPU, both vertically and horizontally, maximizing airflow and aesthetics. The SUP-01 features LED strips along the front and left side of the case, along with an additional strip on the PCIe riser bracket. These strips can be conveniently controlled via the built-in Mode and Color buttons, offering six preset modes and eleven colors for customization.

    3 Airflow Chambers
    ?
    The SUP-01 boasts three separate airflow chambers for efficient cooling. The GPU positioned at the front acts as an intake, while 3 pre-installed 120mm PWM fans serve as exhaust behind the motherboard tray, creating the first airflow chamber. For the CPU, an AIO with a radiator and fans mounted behind the motherboard tray creates the second airflow chamber, supporting up to a 280/360mm AIO. Additionally, a 120mm fan can be mounted at the rear of the case to cool motherboard components such as RAM, CPU power delivery, and M.2 storage.

    Modern Compatibility?
    The motherboard mounting tray accommodates ATX back-connect motherboards, as well as standard ATX, M-ATX, and MINI-ITX motherboards. Equipped with a PCIe 4.0 riser cable mounted on a pre-installed bracket, the SUP-01 supports GPUs of up to four slots thick with a maximum length of 400mm at the front. Storage options include provision for up to two 3.5” HDDs or 2.5” SSDs in the PSU chamber, while an additional two 2.5” SSDs can be mounted above the PSU shroud in the main chamber, adorned with an elegant mirror cover.

    Availability?
    The SUP-01 is available for pre-order on May 30th, 2024, at an MSRP of $149.99 for the black and for the white version.

    For more information on the SUP-01, please visit: https://lian-li.com/product/sup-01/?

  • Turtle Beach VelocityOne Flightdeck HOTAS System Review @ APH Networks

    Published: Thursday, May 30, 2024 | By: Dennis

    Simulators have become rather popular in recent years and while they have been around since the beginning of the computer revolution the interfaces used to control them has been cost prohibitive.  Sure, if you are training to land on the moon or learning how to fly fighter jets you will get a near 1:1 but, for the weekend gamer a joystick just won't cut it.

    The Turtle Beach VelocityOne Flightdeck is a good entry-level HOTAS system for the casual flying enthusiast. 

    I'm not so much a flying enthusiast but, I do like checking out the latest in gaming gear and this one looks pretty good.