Segway Human Transporter (HT) i Series
by Enroute Solutions Inc.
Average Customer Review:
Electronics

US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Early Adopters Pick: November 2002. World's first dynamically stabilized Human Transporter; forward and backward maneuvering guided by rider's natural motions.

The Segway Human Transporter (HT) is a truly 21st-century idea. A two-wheeled electric vehicle that's practical, efficient, slightly miraculous, and an undeniably fun way of getting around, it's as different from a bicycle or motorcycle as the original personal computers were from their lumbering, mainframe predecessors.

Control
In our tests, we rode the Segway HT in a variety of indoor and outdoor environments. Zipping along on the little platform was so steady and comfortable, we quickly forgot how much technology was at work to keep us balanced. The Segway HT moves forward with cues from your body language--the subtle leaning you use to balance yourself while walking or running. When you lean forward, the Segway HT goes forward. A walking lean produces a walking rate, a steeper running lean can bring the machine to its top speed of 12.5 mph. The Segway HT stops when you right yourself again.

Steering is controlled separately with a small twist-grip on the left handlebar. The Segway HT's two-wheeled design makes it quite agile--it can do sharp turns and turn completely in place. Sharper turns require slight leaning into the turns, as you'd expect, but the Segway HT helps by actively regulating turn responsiveness based on your speed. One small complaint: using a throttle-like control for turns instead of acceleration did take some getting used to, but the inconvenience was minor and went away over time.

Overall, we were surprised how quickly we were able to get comfortable on the Segway HT. A novice can be underway in seconds (with supervision) and ascending ramps and turning figure eights in minutes. After training and a few hours of use, a rider should feel comfortable with a wide range of activities.

Riding
The Segway HT moves briskly along on both paved and rough terrain, taking ruts and potholes bumpily but with no loss of control, even for the beginner. Modest hills were ascended with ease and without much discernable effort. All things told, the Segway HT seemed rugged enough to provide reliable transportation in pedestrian environments ranging from rural trails to the sidewalks of a congested city. And utility aside, it's worth stating that the element of machine-assisted balance was a continuous delight. We simply had more control over our movements than we previously could have imagined possible. This was particularly true on downhill rides, where our body language had a degree of command over gravity so unusual that it produced a dreamy, floating feeling.

The Segway HT is not a medical device; if you can't easily stand upright or endure some jostling on varied terrain, it will not solve these problems for you. But while the Segway HT cannot provide balance that the rider doesn't already have, its responsiveness brings a subtle beauty to the rider's movements. We watched more experienced riders start, stop, swoop, and turn as gracefully as figure skaters. In fact, the machine's ease of use could create some overconfidence. The Segway HT has not suspended the laws of physics--its wheels need traction. While the machine will keep itself level under almost any situation we could imagine, a careless rider who drops a wheel over a curb, or tries to turn too quickly on a slippery surface, certainly could take a tumble. Segway advises that riders wear a safety helmet (like a bicycle helmet) and start out in the Beginner mode before moving on to the faster settings.

User-Friendly Design
The Segway HT's controls are simple. A single round display on the handlebars shows either a smiley face (meaning "get on") or a frown face ("get off"). A graphic surrounding the face indicates the battery level. The Segway has no brakes--slowing down involves the same process as acceleration--and its gentle rate precludes any need for a speedometer. We timed its startup speed from the off position to ready to ride: pressing an encrypted "key" to the key port (the key looks like a large watch battery on a plastic fob), hitting the start button, and waiting for the smiley face to come up took a little more than one second.

This machine is clearly designed for close interaction with pedestrians. Its footprint is only a bit wider than a large man, so we were able to do things like ride comfortably in an elevator with another Segway HT rider and a pedestrian, with an almost disappointing lack of bustle or incident. The machine can haul 75 pounds of cargo and still support a 250-pound person, though you'll need touse the HT's soon-to-come mounted accessory bags for any serious buying trip.

Usability
Having ridden a Segway HT, we think almost anyone would be delighted to try this machine. Inevitably, however, one must ask about how usable it is. Clearly, it isn't a car: it won't carry multiple passengers or much luggage, go long distances, or protect you from the elements. Still, we thought of many circumstances where the Segway HT could be a fun and practical alternative to other modes of transportation. We can see potential users as regular folks traveling to and from work each day, students and professors in college towns, city dwellers who take many short trips, retirees in Sunbelt resort communities, vacationers traveling with RVs, and people with easy access to nature trails and walkways.

Well-Built Construction
We had the opportunity to look into the guts of the Segway HT in its pre-assembled state. Inside it was clean and simple, and the few moving parts, such as the gears, struck us as rugged and well made. There are no cooling fans; the circuits and engine are cooled through their contact with the platform's heat-drawing aluminum casing. Each finished HT is tested both at the software level and for quality riding on an obstacle course in the assembly plant. See the technical specifications for more information.

Conclusion
We're convinced that anyone who tries a Segway HT will be smiling in minutes. The other advantage is that early purchasers will certainly be the first on their blocks to have one. But for how long? We think we'll all be seeing much more of the Segway HT in the future. --Erik Hammen

Pros:

• Very high build quality
• Environmentally friendly, extremely energy efficient
• Requires little storage space
• Newness factor--you've never ridden anything like this before
• Fun to ride, and looks cool

Cons:

• Purchase price may be prohibitive for many potential users, though the cost is partially offset long term by nominal upkeep
• Laws regarding legal riding areas (sidewalk versus street) vary from state to state
• Minor inconvenience: rubber plug-in protectors on the machines seemed a bit loose, flopping around a bit on the more rigorously used machines, inconsistent with generally excellent build standards
• Accessories, like carrying bags and lights, will not be available until spring 2003

From the Manufacturer
The Segway Human Transporter is the first transportation product to stand, balance, and move in the same way we do. It harnesses a unique technology called "dynamic stabilization"--the result of more than a decade of research, development and testing, and tens of thousands of hours in field trials--to constantly monitor and balance the Segway HT and rider.

The Segway HT allows riders to travel short distances in dense environments that would be prohibitive to other transportation devices. An amazingly elegant design makes the Segway HT a part of you, sensing subtle changes in your balance and responding immediately. The Segway HT has a level of maneuverability never before seen on wheels--it can balance in place, move forwards and backwards, and turn in place.

Purchase of a Segway HT includes a training session on its operation and features, in order to properly prepare a new rider for safe and enjoyable operation of this new technology.

See Segway HT Advantages.

About This Offer
Because of the unique and revolutionary nature of the Segway Human Transporter, we advise you to read Segway's Purchase, Safety, and Ownership Guidelines when considering placing a deposit. The guidelines describe the terms and conditions of sale, the product warranty, and the details of the Segway HT Early Delivery Contest. Also, the guidelines will help you understand any restrictions or regulations relating to its use in your state. After placing your deposit for the Segway HT, you will receive an e-mail from Amazon.com on behalf of Segway that has the contest entry form. ... Read more

Features

• World's first dynamically stabilized, self-balancing Human Transporter
• Forward and backward maneuvering is guided by rider's natural motions
• Easily navigates most walkable areas, including paved surfaces, dirt roads, grass, and inclines
• Emissions free, powered by rechargeable NiMH battery packs
• Fun to ride--a unique experience

Reviews (104)

Pure transport JOY!
Let me tell you, there is no better way for a human to be transported than the Segway Human Transporter.I was getting tired of walking on my legs, then I got an iSeries Human Transporter for my birthday.That day changed my life.I now can have any girl I want and have made millions on the stock market.How many human tensporters can do that for you?

There are many fake Human Transporters out there.This is the only Human Transporter that will fulfill all of your wildest dreams.

Keep an eye for the Segway Rocketpack Humanoid Flying Modulus.It is in the near future.

Wonderful Tour + Toy but...
It's not very functional.

I had the opportunity to tour Chicago downtown on one of the city architecture tours with segways for about three hours. I can't tell you how giddy I was to get on one. I had seen policemen patrolling around parks and airport with them. It took me about two minutes to get into the balance of it. The controls were very intuitive and easy to use. The whole system is sorta dummy proof. It shuts down itself if you get off it, it refuses to go past a certain speed limit (in fact, almost pushing you off of it after you reach a certain point), and it can stop on a dime.

After using it for a couple hours and after reading a couple reviews here, I have to agree- the segway isn't really intended for more than an expensive toy. It's not comparable to a mopeg or a bike. Our tour was about two hours and half long and at the end of it, my battery was almost at its end. We only went around the Lakefront and to Millenium Park and back to the Adler Planeterium, a mere area of a couple miles. And our batteries were dangerously low. The only way I can see myself using a Segway in an every day environment is if I happened to live like ten minutes from work. Past that, and the segway is pretty much a waste. It would take too long to charge and too expensive to replace the battery for it to be cost-effective. I could take a bus, train, or even bike to a destination for cheaper and faster.

This is not a rip on the Segway technology. I just think the machine isn't made to be very functional. On our ride around the parks, I noticed how poorly it performed on uneven ground (gravel, water, grass). Every little bump was almost a thud when I crossed them. I had to be watch out for cracks and crevices when riding it. Things I wouldn't have done if I was riding a bike. This is all based on my experience with the iSeries. I haven't used the rugged version of the Segway and can imagine it would be better but at a thousand more, it's kinda a moot point.

Overall, I'm glad I got a chance to ride a Segway. I was dying to try one. I couldn't contain the smile I had, as I zoomed past staring strangers and an embarassed girlfriend. But, I couldn't see myself buying one, even though, I work and live in downtown Chicago.

This human transporter is alright by me
Well, let me be the first to tell you that The Segway Human Transporter is a wonderful innovation. I'd been waiting a good while for a quality human transporter, and finally, I felt my waiting had paid off. This baby hit the market, I quickly dished out the 5K needed, and the transporting began. Everything was great, laziness was at an all time high, I really felt like the future was now. "Look at me and my transporter" I'd shout, then I'd turn and mumble to myself, "You fools and your walking and non-space age way of transporting." Life was peachy. Then it came, my boss, Gargon IV, said there was a dilemma on the planet Xaoton 99. I was all over it. I had my Segway transport me, (bet you didn't know it was capable of galactic transport) all the way to Xaoton, with the Segway making the trip quite comfortable and relaxing. I arrived at Xaoton and things were all messed up. I soon found myself in a sticky situation, but it was nothing that the Segway couldn't get me out of. Things got ugly. To make a long story short, the Segway overcame a highly advanced Xaotion army with highly highly evolved technology and all kinds of super high tech lazer guns. So the planet of Xaoton 99 came to peace in the end and everyone was happy

And boy was I glad that my knees didn't catch a lazer because I just wouldn't look as cool anymore on my Segway without the lower half of my legs. The Segway is an amazing improvement in human transporting, it's amazing we can look ahead to the wonderful world of hover transporters travelling warp 10. The Segway Human Transporter is a great start, now lets keep the ball rolling.
... Read more

Asin: B00007EPJ6
Subjects:  1. Computerized cart; iseries;Two-wheeled platform; ht;h t;    2. Motorcart; Motion machine ;htiseries;Standing vehicle; transport    3. segwue; sague; sigue; sigway;sigwey;thingy;transportation    4. i-167; dean; kamen; kaamen; kaman;deka; first;167;    5. invention; new;self-balancing;travel;navigate;eye167;pedestrian   

Friendly Robotics RL800 Robomower
by Friendly Robotics
Average Customer Review:
Tools & Hardware (31 March, 2003)
list price: $999.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Early Adopters Pick: May 2003. The first fully robotic lawnmower that can learn parts of your yard.

The Robomower is convenient, easy, robotic, and clean--and it transforms the world of yard work! Set up (once), turn on, and the Robomower cuts the grass on almost any surface--all by itself. Getting the system set up in your yard can take most of an afternoon, but the well-written manual makes the job easier. The biggest part of the set-up task is stringing the perimeter wire around your yard, marking the boundaries the Robomower will stay within. Once you're set, and the mower is on, the machine simply senses the perimeter wire and uses three mulching blades to cut down everything inside the wire. Thanks to the onboard computer, the Robomower can even learn parts of your yard as it mows, making it quicker next time. The mower is quiet, automatic, and the mulching blades mean that when it's done you don't need to bag or rake.

The Robomower is outfitted with safety features. It won't run at all if it's flipped over with the blades exposed. Likewise, it turns tail and backs off if its soft 360-degree bumpers encounter any foreign object (like a pet or toy or favorite rose bush). A theft deterrent system keeps the unit safe. The Robomower is very quiet compared to other lawn mowers, although because it takes longer to get the job done than a human with a walk-behind mower, what noise there is lasts longer. The mower works best on level yards smaller than 3,200 square feet, with the grass reasonably tame to begin with. It does not work well on hilly or overgrown yards. While it takes a full day to recharge the battery, a full charge is enough to mow most lawns. (The mower is definitely no lightweight, either; it takes two people to remove the machine from the box when it arrives.) The Robomower is definitely a smart idea for folks with physical conditions that make strenuous activities like mowing difficult, but it's also a great product for anyone who feels like there's always something better to do with a weekend afternoon than lawn mowing. Rechargeable power pack comes included.--Brian Trinen ... Read more

Features

• No need to worry about theft with the new theft deterrent system
• Runs on rechargeable power pack--eliminates the need for oil and gas
• Press one button and mower starts working, you are not needed on the lawn while it operates
• An excellent mulcher, so you won't need to collect and bag any grass clippings
• Loaded with built-in safety features to protect children and pets

Reviews (39)

AWESOME - Never Spend Time Mowing Again!
All I can say is that this is definitely the best purchase I have made in the past decade.

Fall of 2003 I moved from a townhouse where my grass was mowed for me to a single family where I needed to mow.Forward a few months and I began doing research on mowers.The Robomower showed up here on epionions and I thought it was to good to be true.I kept reading the reviews and started to think, "Maybe this could really work" - but I was still very skeptical.

Then, last April I decided to give it a try - but I made sure that the place I purchased from offered a 30 day money back guarantee - because I was sure I would be returning it after playing with it for a few weeks.I purchased a Robomower 850 and when it arrived I read the instructions and began laying out the wire.(HINT - YOU'LL need double the wire you expect.If you're buying via mail order, have them ship double the wire with a no restock return policy so that you don't get half way done and then have to wait 2 weeks to finish!)

I started in my fenced in back yard because I didn't want to embarrass myself in front of my neighbors.I figured I'd try it in the back yard and if it didn't work, I would return it and no one would realize my foolishness.So I wired around the perimeter and I wired around my sing/playset and gave it a try.

I was amazed.It really worked!

So I tried it a few more times and every time I was very very pleased with the results.By then I had worked up enough confidence to venture into the front yard where all would see- but I decided to set it up during a work day when there wouldn't be many around to watch (still a bit embarrassed).Again, wired around the perimeter and two trees and turned it on.I had a few mistakes that I needed to adjust the wire for, but then it worked flawlessly.

The neighbors came out in droves."What in the world is that?" they would ask.All amazed.(If I wanted some extra income, I realized I could easily sell these things - especially if setup was included in the price.)

After it was all set up, I wondered if I really saved any time.After all, it probably took me 15 hours or so to get the wiring all set up and working efficiently."Well," I thought, "if nothing else, it was a fun experiment."

I proceeded to mow my yard every three or four days - CORRECTION - the Robomower proceeded to mow my yard.I usually sat on the deck with a lemonade with my wife as we watched it mow (dorky, I know, but the thing is mesmerizing!). Sometimes when I felt ambitious, I would trim with the weed whacker while Mirtle the Turtle (as my niece named it - because it moves slow like a turtle) would mow.

Week after week, the Robomower mowed and mowed and mowed.Every time I was impressed with the finished mow - while I didn't get lines, I did get a complete and even cut that looked great, didn't require bagging and best of all didn't require sweat on my part.After I set the wire up I wondered if it was worth it but once July hit and the grass was growing like crazy and the temps were in the 90's, I loved being able to push the GO button and letting Robomower do the work."THIS IS DEFINITELY WORTH THE SETUP WORK!" I told myself.

Needless to say, I would highly recommend this mower.I will never go back.

With that said, it does take a fair amount of setup work and patience (and willingness to be embarrassed).You're supposed to replace the blades each year.I bought a new set for this year, but haven't replaced them yet - supposedly you can't sharpen them, but I'm going to try to sharpen the first set once I replace them.The battery doesn't hold as strong of a charge this year as it did in year one - so I wouldn't be surprised if I needed to buy a new battery next year.(BTW - I have a decent sized suburban lawn - and it takes two charges to mow it all.I set it out one evening and let it mow (even in the dark - it's a robot after all1) and then set it out the next evening for the second half)If you lay your wire correctly, it will get as close to the edge as a regular mower (at least pretty close).

My yard is mostly flat with only a few obstacles in the middle - which I simply wired around.If you have an uneven yard or a lot of trees, this may not work to well for you.

For most suburban lawns, however, this thing rocks.Set it on it's highest setting so that the grass stays green all summer - who cares if it gets tall faster, all you have to do is drive the Robomower out and push the GO button!

Disclaimer: I don't work for Robomower, nor do I have any connection with them.You're welcome to contact me with setup or usage questions - I can send you pictures of my lawn, etc.I hope this review helps.If it weren't for the other reviews users posted here on epinions.com I would have never tried this thing, so I am very grateful to those who took the time and hope that my doing the same will help someone else!

Robomower clips Houston
I've had my mower since about March 2004 and I've been very pleased with what it has done for the lawn.

Positives.
1. It mows the lawn wonderfully and the crossing action cuts and mulches as well as any mower I've seen.
2. You can stand and watch it or go lay in the pool. (important when it's 95F and 95% humidity here in Houston.)
3. You get to meet your neighbors and complete strangers who stop to ask how it works.
4. I've had good response from Friendly Robotics support (I've read some of the notes that weren't so positive, not sure why mine was different)
5. Payback is about 1 year (40 weeks mowing X $25/wk for lawn services) (although I do have to do my own edging)
6. It's quiet enough to use anytime day or night.

Negatives.
1. The perimeter switch failed 2 times, although I received a new switch within the week each time I called.
2. I waited a couple months before adjusting the perimeter wire to better cover all the areas of the lawn and the St. Augustine grass had buried the wires and made it hard to move (lesson learned, adjust right after it mows the first or second time)
3. If the grass is tall and/or wet there can be a traction problem with the mower.Although support did help and say to raise the mower to the highest setting when that happens.

Overall, it's been great and I look forward to using the Robomower for a long time to come.I saw the review from the person with St. Augustine grass and an uneven lawn.Well mine's St. Augustine and the developer certainly didn't go to any pains to smooth the dirt before laying the sod, but I've had no problems with the mower completing it's task.I have 3 zones with trees in the middle of one, a pool and 3 bush/tree areas in another and the Robomower handles them all really well.

What I've learned about the electronics is, if there is a problem where it appears to get 'stuck' I remove the battery for about 15 seconds and then let it restart,that's solved any problem in that area.

I'm almost hoping that I can move so I can sell this Robomower with this house and buy one of the newer models at the new place!

Excellent product.
Would have given 5 stars but owners manual was missing, called Amazon and was told to call manufactuer. It arrive after a week. No problems with mower. Cuts grass better than the old walk-behind mower did. Set-up was a breeze and perimeter wire was a snap to lay. A bit pricey and accessories/optional items are a fortune. For price paid a rapid charger should have been included. Only concern is service, nearest service center is a couple of hundred miles away.

Would I purchase one again? Probably (Most likely if price was lower). I live in central Florida and during summer months grass requires 2 mowings per week.If I lived in a cooler/drier area price paid would have covered lawn service for a long time. ... Read more

Asin: B000087QPC
Subjects:  1. Cordless Tools    2. Landscaping Tools    3. Mowers    4. Cordless Mowers    5. (Lawn Mowers)    6. (Lawnmowers)   

iRobot Roomba Pro Intelligent Floorvac Robotic Vacuum
by iRobot
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen (15 October, 2003)
list price: $229.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

An intelligent vacuum that uses robotic technology to deliver barefoot-clean floors in-between more thorough cleanings, iRobot’s Roomba Pro follows in the footsteps of the original model (the first automatic vacuum available in the U.S.). But it also adds some great new features, including Spot Clean. Selecting this option sets the Roomba Pro spiraling around a small area up to three feet wide, great for cleaning up dry spills or extra dirt. Thirteen inches in diameter and lighter than your average bowling ball, this innovative vacuum will roam a room devouring dust, dirt, pet hair, and tidbits left behind from everyday living.

Setting up the Roomba Pro for its first sashay through the living room is fairly easy. First, the battery needs charging for at least 12 hours before its maiden voyage; simply plug the AC adapter into any outlet and it will shut off automatically when fully charged. After that, the indicator light’s different colors will show the battery’s charge status. The Roomba Pro can clean two to three medium sized rooms on one charge, approximately 60 to 90 minutes, depending on floor surface. Although it may look more like a Frisbee than a vacuum, the Roomba Pro cleans carpet, wood, linoleum, and tile, transitioning smoothly between those surfaces. It even senses and avoids stairs, and glides easily under beds.

Next, remove any clothing, papers, cords, and fragile items from the floor. You may choose to set up one or both of the fist-sized Virtual Wall units, which emit a beam to redirect the Roomba Pro, keeping it out of unwanted areas. Set the Roomba Pro in the center of the room, and press the green power button to turn it on. Then select the corresponding button for a small (10 by 12 feet), medium (14 by 16 feet), or large (15 by 20 feet) room. The Roomba Pro plays a few musical notes of greeting, then begins moving.

When the Roomba Pro starts cleaning, it travels around the floor in a spiral pattern. When its non-marring bumper touches a wall, the Roomba Pro follows the wall for a short time, then crosses the room in straight lines. It repeats this pattern until its cleaning time has elapsed, providing maximum cleaning coverage.

The Roomba Pro’s breakthrough three-stage cleaning system uses side brushes, two main counter-rotating brushes, and a high-efficiency squeegee to pick up everything from fine to large particles. The particle bin removes for emptying. The unit comes with an easy-to-follow manual and two replacement filters. Additional Virtual Wall units, battery packs, and a rapid charger can be purchased separately. Two D batteries (not included) are required for each Virtual Wall. The Roomba Pro is covered by a 180-day parts and labor warranty. --Rhonda Langdon ... Read more

Features

• Measures 13 by 3-1/4 inches
• Automatically vacuums floors without supervision
• Transitions between low-to-medium-pile carpet, hardwoods, tile, and linoleum
• 3-stage system cleans wall edges, under furniture, and concentrated spots
• Includes 2 virtual walls to keep Roomba contained; 1 rechargeable battery

Reviews (55)

Love it!
I love everything about this little dynamo because I hate everything about vacuuming!It's so cute, and even beeps when it is finished.I love how you can use the guides to keep it contained in one area.The only con is that it doesn't do windows!;)

It Depends On...
It's usefulness depends on a few issues.I have a rapid charger so that helps.I do not depend on this to do my deep cleaning, but it's great for surface stuff.It's also GREAT if you're back is killing you or some other handicap prevents you from using a real vacuum.Mine runs forever and picks up a lot of dog hair, though not ground-in hair.I cannot leave the house and come back and expect it to be done, 'cause it's always getting caught on something (a throw rug or piece of furniture), but works out great if I'm at home doing other chores. It saves no time due to the fact I must spend 15 minutes cleaning out the dog hair once it's finished. But I use it when I'm lazy or hurting and save the cleaning out part for when I'm up too it.

Low power, short life
Hi,

The battery in my iRobot Roomba Pro Intelligent Floorvac died after eight months of using it twice a week on hardwood floors.I might consider buying a new battery, but to spend $60 to keep the little guy working just isn't worth it because it won't clean my carpets.

I was very disappointed when I first got the vacuum.It just did not have the traction to keep moving on my carpet.It would go about ten feet and die.I have a plush carpet that is somewhat thick.I had heard that the vacuum did not work well on heavy carpet, but I thought they meant that it didn't do deep cleaning.I didn't realize that it would not work at all.I wasn't worried about the lack of deep cleaning.I just wanted it to handle the surface dirt and planned to do deeper cleaning using my regular vacuum.

I must say it worked fine on my hardwood floors and I used it weekly for them.It also seemed to work OK on rugs left on the hardwood floors--even those that were quite thick.

I'm giving it an overall rating of 2, but the breakdown would be:

4: hard surface
0: carpet ... Read more

Asin: B0000AHROM
Subjects:  1. Vacuum Cleaners    2. Carpet Sweepers    3. Floor Care    4. Cleaning Supplies    5. (Vacs)   

Best of Sarah Brightman: 1990-2000
by Wea International
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (10 July, 2001)
list price: $34.49 -- our price: $34.49
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Features

• Import

Reviews (7)

Heaven Is Here?
Sarah Brightman has a brilliant and a beautiful voice. She is one of the leading vocalists in the world and not without reasons. The songs "Heaven Is Here", "Time to Say Goodbye" etc. have been heard many times. All her songs are beautiful but some of them are quite basic stuff ("Captain Nemo", "La Mer", "Deliver Me", First of May"). Some songs are all time classics. She has actually no own songs...she sings other people's songs..."Who Wants to Live Forever" from Queen, "Scarborough Fair" from Simon & Garfunkel. But why not? There's so many songs...sometimes they need just another singer. This collection she makes many duets. José Cura, Andrea Bocelli, Richard Marx...they are also great male singers.
Stars: Only an Ocean Away, Time to Say Goodbye, Scarborough Fair, Heaven Is Here

Best of...
Sarah Brightman crossed over from showtunes to ethereal pop over the years, changing her image with nearly every album. From the velvety grandeur of "Eden" to the sparkling "La Luna" to the surreal "Fly." Several of the best songs from the 1990-2000 period are included here, and except for a few omissions, it's a top-rate collection of singles.

It kicks off with two songs from her early pop period, the epic "Question of Honour" and organ-dominated "Heaven is Here." There's also a cover of the Bee Gees' "First of May." Then she dips into the melancholy "Who Wants to Live Forever," the rich "Tu Quiere Volver," the rich "Just Show Me How to Love You" and the pretty duet with Andrea Bocelli, "Time to Say Goodbye."

Then it's time for a look at Brightman's more recent creations. These songs tend to be more textured and symphonic, and less spacey. There's the hymnlike, vaguely sexy "Eden," ethereal "Nella Fantasia," the soaringly earthy "Deliver Me,"and the aching "Only an Ocean Away." Taking on a more ethereal sound is the soft "Scarborough Fair," and richly psychedelic "Whiter Shade of Pale," followed by live versions of of "Captain Nemo" and "Mer." It wraps up on a sweet note with the silky, murmuring "The Last Words You Said."

Brightman has a good enough track record -- and a long enough career -- that it's hard not to wish for a two-disc set of her best songs from that era. With this release, Brightman has a chance to smooth over some of her odder past songs (like that Tom Jones duet) and focus just on the best she did in every album during that ten-year period. Some of her songs seem to have gotten lost in the shuffle. For example, where is the beautiful "Desert Rose"?

However, the musical arrangements are impeccable -- there's some electronica, orchestral pieces, and "Tu Quiere Volver" is lorded over by an acoustic guitar. Brightman also gets to show the full range of her vocals -- she sings sweetly or richly, and launches into operatic solos in songs like "Question of Honour."

And unlike a lot of "best of" albums, this is also a good place for newbies to start checking out Brightman's work. Die-hard Brightman fans will have everything but the live tracks, yet this is still a good collection.

Good For A Start, But Loyal Fans, Don't Buy This
Before i start with anything, I don't have this album, but not in this form. I have almost the whole albums of this great soprano, and that means that I already have this album.

Songs selected here are quite good, but they are, like what I've mentioned, are not for fans like me. The songs are quite catchy to catch someone by ear, but not me. There are more Sarah's albums to try (Harem, Classics, or La Luna) which contains good songs that are not listed here, like the terrific and rare "Once In A Lifetime" (DIVE), or "Tu Quieres Volver" (Timeless/Time To Say Goodbye). And several songs, for me, are not necessary, like "La Mer" (Not "Mer" like Amazon wrote), or "Question of Honour Pt 2" ( the "Pt 1" remains the best).

But if you are new to Sarah Brightman, a die-hard fan, or a money-spender fan, buy this, but if you're a loyal fan who has gotten Sarah's more recent album, don't buy this. I'm agree with MOONGODDESS, burn this CD, pretend you've bought it. ... Read more

Asin: B00005J79J
Sales Rank: 56960
Subjects:  1. Adult Contemporary    2. Easy Listening/Vocal    3. Musicals    4. Pop    5. Pop Vocals    6. Show Tunes    7. Vocal   

Breyer Unicorns: Alida and Elidor
by Breyer Horses
Average Customer Review:
Toy
list price: $49.99 -- our price: $49.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Reviews (2)

Alida and Elidor
Alida and Elidor is a cute pair with a foal and mare. Alida the mare has a sparkly mane with a firey free magic eyes, but the foal Elidor has that wild look of triedness and free look glancing look. I think it is eductional because it teachs young minds about imagaion and adventure with the land of the wild magical unicorns with a flowing sparkly mane and tail as a unicorn stallion rears up with his long horn and little beard with slighty cloven hooves, as he gallops of on his graceful legs and run like the speed of light as his filly Elidor and his mare Alida come bounding toward him to gallop of into the beginning of a new adventure.

White Unicorns of Heavan
These two unicorns are wonderful looking. They look exactly the way you'd think a unicorn would look. The filly is a little bit boring cause it just lays there. They are worth every buck. ... Read more

Asin: B00009VE6I
Sales Rank: 18070

Star Wars Fx Edition Lgtsb
Average Customer Review:
Toy

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Reviews (8)

Exceedingly Fun!
This is as close to a real lightsaber as anyone is likely to ever get.If you love the movies and always wanted your very own lightsaber, this is it.The only way it could have been any better is if the blade was able to come off the hilt somehow.

Darth Vader never disappoints
This has got to be one of the coolest "fun" items I own.What little boy or girl (who has seen Star Wars) hasn't wished that he/she could have a lightsaber of their own?And now that we are grown up and have $100 to spare, it can be a reality!

The Darth Vader version is by far the best Master Replicas FX Lightsaber out there.The way the blade lights up from the bottom and retracts from the top is worth the purchase price alone.The sounds that the saber makes when you swing it around are very clear!My only complaint is that the motion sensor could be a little more sensitive to general movement, instead of just being sensitive to turning and twisting motions.Other than that, this something that any true-blue Star Wars fan must have.

Educational value?It's a LIGHTSABER!What kind of educational value can it possibly have?I wish I could give this thing 10 stars for FUN value!The only downside is that it is relatively long, and while playing with it in the house today I hit the chandelier in the dining room and broke some of the crystal decorations, which didn't impress my wife in any way.Oh well, the kids love it.

Like another reviewer said, this thing is quite hefty.I was dueling with my 8 year-old and he was killing me with his featherweight, plastic lightsaber because he could fling it around so quickly.Of course, I could swing mine quickly as well, but I would probably take out an eye or break a tooth at the same time.

Two thumbs up (both mine) on this baby!May the force be with you... always.

A great item
Im not a collector by any means, but when I saw that they released a darth vader version, I had to have it.Let me tell you it doesnt disappoint.The hilt is solid, chrome and rubber.The switch to turn it on is very small and almost hidden.If you know the movies, you know the sound it makes when it comes on, because the sounds are identical to the movie.It swishes, and it hisses when it hits something, and it certainly isnt very breakable, because I have to hit mine with a light amount of force against an object to get it respond.Granted, this doesnt mean you could go all out gun-ho dueling with it, but Im sure there are morons out there that want to swing it as hard as they can.Think of it as a theatrical piece, for planned dueling, not for your crazy friend that wants to swing a sword at you.

The light it gives off is bright, visible in my house under 4 100watt light, daylight, etc, but of course the real effect is night or dark (duh).The greatest thing is shutting it off, watching it retract while it makes the shut down.

The stand is a three piece molded plastic, but looks nice and I have no complaints about it.Shipping was a breeze and so was dealing with the company (I went direct, but I love amazon, so I know it will be the same.)Definately a quality item. ... Read more

Asin: B00006JBPO
Sales Rank: 22183

KitchenAid K45SS Classic 250-Watt 4-1/2-Quart Stand Mixer, White
by KitchenAid
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $239.99 -- our price: $169.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

KitchenAid's stand mixer is a substantial piece of equipment: 250 watts of mixing power make child's play of creaming butter, kneading dough, and whipping cream. The kid in you will appreciate how quick and easy it is to mix up a batch of cookie dough; the 4-1/2-quart bowl can hold up to 8 cups of flour, which translates into as many as 192 sweet treats.

This model comes with three attachments: a flat beater for making batter, meat loaf, and all textures in-between; a wire whip for egg whites, mayonnaise, and more air-infused creations; and a hook for mixing and kneading yeast doughs. All three are solid in construction and easily secured to the beater shaft with a simple twist; untwisting them is a bit trickier because the attachment stems are short and can be hard to grasp, especially if they get the least bit greasy. The bowl itself locks tight to the base.

Standing 14 inches high, jutting out a foot, and weighing more than a grown woman's bowling ball, this stand mixer isn't the sort of appliance you'll wipe down and put away. Better to find a square foot of free counter space for easy access; besides, this machine is as pretty as it is rugged--you'll want to show it off.

To complete the package, KitchenAid includes a spiral-bound guide with instructions, mixing tips, and 67 recipes, from crispy waffles to a caramel walnut banana torte. --Betsy Danheim ... Read more

Features

• Measures 13-8/9 by 8-2/3 by 14 inches; 1-year warranty
• 250-watt, 10-speed mixer with tilt-up head
• 4-1/2-quart bowl holds dough for 2 loaves of bread
• Three handy accessories: flat beater, wire whip, and dough hook
• Includes a guide with instructions, mixing tips, and 67 recipes

Reviews (78)

Believe the hype
I have this unit. I dont use it a lot...but at least once or twice a week. It sure does a good job.
Cookies etc. I make pizza dough. Prefer one mix at a time..ie 1 loaf of bread or pizza dough for a 12" pizza. One trick for the rising dough on the hook...spray or oil the hook.
I have a disability and could notdo many of these mixing tasks without a good mixer. Todays price..April 6/05 with the bonus is excellent. Worth it as a backup.

The most fabulous mixer ever...plus it looks cute too!
I love my mixer.I bought it five years ago after wanting one for about twenty years.I bought it at Christmas time and was inspired to make loads and loads of cookies which turned out beautifully and perfectly mixed.That baby could mix up a giant batch of gingerbread in what seemed like seconds!If you have ever mixed a gingerbread recipe by hand, you'll know why I'm so excited about it!It incorporated five cups of flour with no effort.WOW!Now, I know that one lady who reviewed this mixer before gave it only two stars for the motor and the warranty, but possibly she got a lemon.I don't use mine for bread very often, because I was brought up baking bread and kneading the dough by hand, but perhaps if it is used every day, the motor would wear a tad.I know that I've always been happy with mine and I use it often.I love the way it looks on the counter and it's extremely easy to clean.The bowl, dough hook and paddle are all dishwasher safe.The only hand wash item is the wisk, which is no big deal.The body with the motor wipes clean in a snap and it's always easy to whip together a recipe in no time.I love it and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a new stand mixer.

Don't believe the hype
Granted, I am not a professional cook (I only cook for my family and for the occasional guests), and there are many glowing reviews of this appliance, but I would not buy this KitchenAid mixer again.

1) It is very heavy.That's good for not bouncing around on the counter, but I have to move mine from the pantry to the counter, and it is extremely heavy.2) I do not think that it mixes ingredients well.I always have to scrape the sides and get under the dough because there is often unmixed flour at the bottom.3)My kids (5 and 7 years) like my old-fashioned MixMaster because they can see through the clear bowl and enjoy watching the ingredients mix.The KitchenAid has a metal bowl that is obviously not see-through and has to be hand washed.4)The beaters must be hand washed.5) Reaching into the bowl is a task, unless you don't mind being covered in batter.The bowl is narrower at the top, so there is not much room to get a spatula between the sides of the bowl and the beater.6) Adding ingredients while the mixer is going is also a pain because of the narrow shape of the bowl. 7) You can get a splash-guard sort of plastic device through which to pour wet or dry ingredients. But why should I need a device for a mixer?There should be room enough to pour ingredients directly in.Also, then I have to store these plastic pieces, and they do not fit into the mixer.

My mother says she likes making bread with her KitchenAid which I haven't tried. But for making cookies, cakes, mashed potatoes, etc., I would not recommend the KitchenAid.

It blows my mind that so many people have bought into this mixer with its many inconveniences.I just pulled out the KitchenAid to give it one more try making cookies and was again disappointed.Next time, I'll stick to my cheap old MixMaster.Besides, my 2 girls each get to enjoy a beater a-piece with that one! ... Read more

Asin: B00004SGFW
Subjects:  1. Kitchen    2. Mixers    3. Anniversary    4. Small Appliances    5. Electrics    6. Stand Mixers    7. (Standmixers)    8. (Kitchen Aid)    9. Gifts    10. Wedding Gifts    11. Cooking   

George Foreman GR10AWHT Champ Grill
by George Foreman
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $39.99 -- our price: $17.95
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

This smaller version of George Foreman's famous "as seen on TV" Lean Mean Fat-Reducing Grilling Machine is perfect for preparing quick, low-fat meals for one or two people. The double-sided grill surface heats in less than five minutes to an even temperature perfect for grilling most foods. The high grill grooves and slight angle allow fat to run off the grill as food cooks, and the nonstick surface requires little or no additional fat for cooking. The plastic, grooved spatula works well to scrape off any bits that may have stuck to the surface.

Meats and fish are the obvious choices to take advantage of the Grilling Machine's fat-reduced grilling, but vegetables and tofu dogs work well too. The double-sided grill means food cooks twice as fast, leaves attractive grill marks, and generates surprisingly little smoke. --Julija Gelazis ... Read more

Features

• Interior wipes clean easily
• 6-by-7-inch nonstick cooking surface
• Great for grilling burgers, fish, vegetables
• Includes dishwasher-safe plastic drip tray and spatula
• Patented grill grooves let oil run off while food is cooking

Reviews (378)

Don't waste your money on this - buy a convection oven
I agree completely with Mr. Charles Tsen.Every thing he has written about this grill is right.I had the misfortune of buying this after reading all the hype about this useless appliance.I bougth it more than a year ago and promised myself that i would never use it again.It is ridiculosuly difficult to clean and you simply will never get the desired results.For all those people looking to get a great fat reducing machine, I would recommend that they should consider "Nesco American Harvest JS-4000TE Jet Stream Oven" from Amazon or any other site.I have been using this convection oven for the past 6-7 years and am extremely satisfied.One tip in prolonging the life of this convection oven is to use a fresh paper towel on the tray to absorb all the fat before using it.

This grill is a Champ
Quick heat up means a quick meal. As a busy single,I find that I can put a potato in the microwave, plug in the grill, preheat, put the meat on the grill and be ready by the time the potato is cooked and a vegetable is put together.Clean up is simple thanks to the nonstick coating. I cook everything, including eggplant on this grill.It is a definite necessity in my kitchen.

George Foreman where have you been all my life??
This is such an awesome little piece of kit and have recommended it to so many people! My five star review i guess also takes into condideration the price we paid. We go this when it was reduced to $14.99 and I doubt that, pound for pound, you could get a better kitchen gadget for that price.

As I had previously seen this on tv infomercials I was a little sceptical as I always am of these "gadgets", but this really has changed our kitchen lives. It heats up so fast and cooks very quickly and evenly (due to it cooking both sides at once).We really love the speed - its great to know that in four/five minutes you can have a perfect tuna-stek or porkchop without having to fire up the oven. It also frees up the oven to cook other things for your meal.

Its just big enough to cook two chicken breasts or two burgers, a porkchop or steak. But it can also be used for sausage links, bacon, vegetables and grilled cheese sandwiches.

Some people have mentioned they have real problems cleaning it up. Whilst yes it could be better but you literally just scrape off any excess and wipe it down. If you dont want to have to do that then you need to buy the one with removable plates but it would have cost us three times as much.

Be warned thought that the fat-collecting drip tray shouldnt be put in the dishwasher - we did and it melted part of it. ... Read more

Asin: B00004R93Z
Subjects:  1. Small Appliances    2. Electrics    3. Indoor Grills    4. (George Forman)    5. Back to School    6. Gifts    7. Kitchen    8. Indoor Grilling   

Toshiba 42HP83P 42" TheaterWide HD-Ready Plasma Flat-Panel TV
by Toshiba
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $7,499.99
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Editorial Review

Note: Toshiba 42HP83P 42" TheaterWide HD-Ready Plasma Flat-Panel TV is no longer being manufactured. You may want to consider purchasing the newerToshiba 42HP84 42" TheaterWide HD-Ready Flat-Panel Plasma TV instead.

With its 16:9 widescreen, portrait-thin chassis, full high-definition resolution, and picture improvements for sub-HD sources such as VCRs, cable boxes, and non-progressive-scan DVD players, Toshiba's 42HP83 42-inch plasma television is primed for both movie and sports fans.

With a plasma screen you get vivid colors like you've never seen before, extremely wide viewing angles (wider, even, than LCD screens), and easy placement due to a plasma monitor's slim size--the 42HP83 is a mere 4.9 inches deep, perfect for desk or wall mounting (a table stand is included). Brightness tends to be extremely uniform across plasma screens, which are also impervious to the picture distortion and negative color balances that afflict CRT monitors when placed in close proximity to lighting or sound systems. The set's amazing specs include an LCD-shaming 1,000:1 contrast ratio, 340 cd/m2 brightness, and 1,024 x 768 resolution.

Heading up the great features is CrystalScan HDSC, which coverts all signals--including 480p--to full 1080i resolution. Frame, line, and pixel doubling are all used to create progressive, full-frame images from standard interlaced signals (such as composite-video signals from DVD players, VCRs, and camcorders). The process reduces jagged-line artifacts for a smoother, more natural image. Selectable 540p, for those who want to display a progressive-scan image from a progressive-scan source, is available via the handy onscreen menu.

HD Dynamic Contrast continually analyzes picture information and enhances those parts of the picture with the most detail information which results in a sharper, deeper, more film-like images. The 42HP83's 3D Y/C (4 MB, 10-bit) digital comb filter further enhances resolution by removing blurred edges between colors and reducing dot crawl (tiny, moving dots of color along a sharp color separation in a vertical line, as in a depiction of a character's striped T-shirt).

A pair of ColorStream HD component-video inputs provide the ultimate picture quality from high-resolution component-video signals, like those from DTV set-top boxes, progressive-scan DVD players, or satellite receivers. Other connections include a direct-digital DVI input with high-bandwidth digital content protection (HDCP), three each composite- and S-video inputs, and a composite-video output (with both fixed- and variable-level audio outs) for use with a VCR or surround receiver.

HD Window multiscan 2-tuner POP (picture-on-picture) accepts 480i, 480p, 720p, and 1080i signals and can even display two different-resolution signals simultaneously. The split-screen function lets you adjust the size of the POP boxes and will even let you view both 16:9 and 4:3 images at the same time. The set's seven MultiWindow system makes it possible to see the main picture while viewing your favorites or doing a channel scan in seven smaller boxes.

When hooked up to the IR output, the supplied TheaterLink IR dongle lets you operate up to six video components by simply pointing the remote at the TV screen, even if the components are hidden away in cabinets or out of view.

Cinema Mode (3:2 pulldown) circuitry identifies original film-based content from DVDs, then reassembles the frame sequence to more accurately reproduce the original 24-frame-per-second material. Four TheaterWide picture modes enable full-screen viewing of varying widescreen movie formats, while color temperature control provides three selectable temperature settings for achieving an optimum white balance.

What's in the Box
TV, table stand, remote control, remote batteries, IR dongle (for use with set's TheaterLink IR capability), user's manual, and registration/warranty information. ... Read more

Features

• 1,000:1 contrast ratio, 340 cd/m2 brightness, and 1,024 x 768 pixel resolution
• 10 watts per channel audio power x 2
• 42-inch widescreen high-definition plasma monitor; 52 x 27.5 x 4.9 inches (W x H x D)
• ColorStream HD component-video inputs provide ultimate picture quality from DTV receivers and progressive-scan DVD players
• CrystalScan HDSC converts all inputs signals (including 480i/p) to 1080i video resolution

Reviews (9)

Great while it worked
Luckily I bought this unit from Sears as a 'floor' model. Reason I'm lucky is that Sears 'burned in' the unit for me for several months, and when I bought it they gave me a good price and the 1 yr warranty as a new unit would get. It broke within 10 months after purchase and Sears is going to replace it with a comparable unit. Anyway, here's what I saw up until it broke and how it broke:

1) Picture: FANTASTIC! Just like the other reviews, the picture of the 42HP83 is unsurpassed! Vivid, accurate colors, Outstanding contrast, and very important as the room this unit is in has 8 windows, very bright. When running DVI from my DISH HD receiver the picture is unbelievable, and the component input isn't bad either (it takes a great deal of scrutiny to see the difference, but it's there)

2) Sound: Sorry I can't get into this much as I disabled the amp/speakers that are built into the unit in lieu of my HK surround system.

3) Controls: Once you get the hang of 'em, menus are good but you'll have to practice how to use the buttons

4) Inputs: More than you'll probably need, but then again, I was using my AV receiver to handle much of the switching, except for the DVI input.

5) Maintenance (general): We live in a very dusty area so the back picks up a bunch of 'dust bunnies' that you need to clean off periodically

Now to the demise of the unit:

About 9 months into my ownership of the 42HP83, the screen came up normally in the morning, only to start pixelating after a few minutes. Almost like the pixles were overwriting each other, causing ultimately a black screen with a string of pixels across the center. Originally it stayed like this for about 5 minutes and then the picture reappeared with some pixelation, and ultimately stabilized a few minutes later. Within almost a month, that wait time was up to 25 minutes. Sears service came out 4 times and was unable to fix the problem. NOTE: as people have pointed out here, service folks in general are NOT knowledgable when it comes to these units and after replacing three circuit boards with no effect, apparently they've given up and are going to replace the unit with a comparable one.

One interesting piece of info: Had I purchased this unit NEW it would have failed about 6 months after warranty expired!!!

Best Purchase I've Made...
Before my purchase I spent a lot of time looking at various option with TVs. I work for a major home electronics dealer and I had some special access to testing information and narrowed it down to this model a Sony variations and a Samsung model.

This TV won, hands down.

The picture is beautiful, especially in DVD or HD, likewise the sound quality is excellent, slight distortion, but with proper calibration it's easily solved.

Several reviews have mentioned the sound being "off" and "not syncing correctly" I experienced this slightly in the short film "Star" by BWM Films, otherwise I have had no problems the picture and sound match perfectly.

The level of detail and sharpness are by far the best I experienced in Plasma. The color quality and brightness levels are amazing, even if turned down below 25%. The blacks are very black and the whites are brilliant white.

The sharpness is equal if not better then many XBR models. I am very pleased and will continue purchasing Toshiba's for years.

Make sure you properly calibrate the model (either professionally or with an Avia disc...) and make sure you let the TV warm up to room temperature before you turn it on. Likewise read you manual, a lot of mistake and abuse can come about with improper knowledge of how to run a machine like this.

This Toshiba is like a European sports car, you treat it right and it'll treat you right.

PLEASE DO NOT BUY THIS PLASMA
I have bought this TV in June.It has not worked for 15 days properly.Picture comes up for 30 min and it goes off and the screen is just with white lines all over, and the TV gets so hot we shut down for few min (when it works).It works once a day.Picture quality is not good.Repair guys took 2 months to figure out what the problem is.After 4-8 new parts in it, it worked for 20 days again back to the same problem.Customer Service of Toshiba "New Technology and New Problems".No HELP AT ALL FROM THEM.Do not take my word.I am putting the Phone Number of the Repair center: 770-451-5057 and my case #: 281270.PLEASE DO NOT BUY THIS TV. ... Read more

Asin: B0000E2SJD
Subjects:  1. tosheba, toeshiba, toshbia, tosheeba    2. 42-hp83, hp83, 42hp-83, 42ph83, 42 inch    3. theater, wide, widescreen, screen, 42hp83    4. hd-television, hdtv, hd-tv, television,    5. enroute   

Segway Human Transporter (HT) p Series
by Segway
Average Customer Review:
Electronics

US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Early Adopters Pick: October 2003. The second in a line of the world's first dynamically stabilized Human Transporters, with forward and backward maneuvering guided by a rider's natural motions.

The new Segway HT p Series is the next iteration of a unique and truly 21st-century idea: a two-wheeled electric transportation device that is practical, efficient, slightly miraculous, and an undeniably fun way of getting around. It’s smaller, lighter, and less expensive than the original Segway HT i Series, and the modifications that make it so are sure to please a new wave of riders.

Control
Topping out at 10 mph, the p Series is faster than a swift jog but a bit slower than the original Segway model, which hits 12.5 mph on flat surfaces. Segway isn't trying to replace your car with their machines, but they do promise a fun ride supported by cutting-edge technology quietly at work beneath your feet.

The Segway HT moves forward by taking cues from your body language--the subtle leaning you use to balance yourself while walking or running. When you lean forward, the Segway HT goes forward. A walking lean produces a walking rate, while a steeper running lean can bring the Segway to its top speed. The machine stops when you right yourself. Steering is controlled with a small twist-grip on the left handlebar, a control that may initially prove disconcerting to those used to a motorcycle-style brake or throttle. After a few minutes, however, the handlebar turning mechanism feels completely natural. The Segway HT's two-wheeled design makes it quite agile--it can execute sharp turns and turn completely in place. Sharp turns require a slight leaning into the turns, as you'd expect, but the Segway HT helps by actively regulating turn responsiveness based on your speed.

Ultimately, the Segway system is so easy to learn that a novice can be underway in seconds (with supervision) and ascending ramps and turning figure eights in minutes. After training and a few hours of use, a rider should feel comfortable with a wide range of activities.

Riding
Riding the p Series should be similar to riding the original i Series, but with added maneuverability due to its slightly smaller frame. The new model's battery is good for about 8 miles when fully charged (the original model was rated at 10 miles), but that difference is probably negligible if you're using the machine for intracity or neighborhood travel. Otherwise, you can ride the Segway HT p Serieson a variety of paved surfaces–from trails to congested city sidewalks. And its unique element of machine-assisted balance will surely continue to delight and astound. I saw a pair of city maintenance workers using Segway's self-balancing e Series models in downtown Seattle; one rider dismounted his Segway HT in the middle of the sidewalk and the machine just stood there balancing itself, rocking back and forth almost like a living thing, waiting for its rider to return. The e Series is currently only sold to commercial customers.

Remember that if you can't easily stand upright or endure some jostling on varied terrain, the Segway HT will not solve these problems for you. The Segway HT is not a medical device. But while it cannot provide balance that the rider doesn't already have, the Segway's responsiveness does bring a subtle beauty to a rider's movements. Experienced riders can start, stop, swoop, and turn as gracefully as figure skaters. In fact, the machine's ease of use could create some overconfidence, so it's important to remember that its wheels always need traction for balance. A careless rider who drops a wheel over a curb or tries to turn too quickly on a slippery surface could fall. Segway advises that riders wear a safety helmet (like a bicycle or skateboard helmet) and start out in the Beginner mode before moving on to the faster settings.

User-Friendly Design
Closer to the ground than its predecessor by almost 2 inches, the Segway HT p Series should be even easier to mount than the original. Once on, your controls are the same. A single round display on the handlebars shows either a smiling face (meaning "get on") or a frowning face ("get off"). A graphic surrounding the face indicates the battery level. The Segway has no brakes--slowing down involves the same process as acceleration--and its gentle rate precludes any need for a speedometer.

The p Series sports an extremely narrow footprint. It stands 21.8 inches wide, comparable to the shoulder span of an average man, and a few inches narrower than the original Segway HT, which is itself slight enough to fit gracefully into an elevator full of people. The p Series should prove itself even more adept at sliding into tight offices and passageways.

Substantially lighter than the original, the new Segway HT p Series weighs only 70 pounds. With this reduction, the maximum allowable rider weight has also dropped. The p Series can carry riders weighing up to 200 pounds, plus 10 pounds of cargo, a bit lower than the original's limit, which is 250 pounds, plus 10 pounds of cargo.

Usability
The lighter weight and power-assist mode in the p Series make it easy to integrate with other modes of transportation, such as trains or automobiles. And it's specifically intended for smaller riders and urban commuters. Other potential users include students and professors in college towns, city dwellers who take many short trips, vacationers traveling with RVs, and people with easy access to nature trails and walkways.

Well-Built Construction
The basic elements of the new model are nearly identical in construction to the original. One main difference is the narrower 16-inch tires of the p Series, which are rated to last 3,000 miles or 5 years. Compare this to the muscular 19-inch tires (6,000 miles or 5 years) on the original. That said, a Segway is a clean and simple machine; the brushless motors are retained on the p133, and there continue to be only a few sturdy moving parts. The circuits and engine are still self-cooled through their contact with the platform's heat-drawing aluminum casing.

Conclusion
It's been less than a year since the introduction of the Segway HT i167 and already the company has launched a cheaper, leaner model that undoubtedly will appeal to a new group of riders. The continuing excitement about this amazing machine and the quick release of the elegant Segway HT p Series are good signs that the revolutionary Segway HT will be around, in one form or another, for years to come.--Erik Hammen

Pros:

• Less expensive than the original Segway
• High-quality construction
• Environmentally friendly, extremely energy efficient
• Lighter and narrower, even easier to store than the original Segway
• Accessories now available

Cons:

• Reduced weight allowance, battery charge life, and wheel life from the original Segway
• Purchase price is prohibitive for many potential users, though the cost is partially offset in the long run by nominal upkeep expenses
• Laws regarding legal riding areas (sidewalk versus street) vary from state to state

... Read more

Reviews (36)

Segway
I really want a Segway because they're cool! I only wish they were cheaper so I could get one.

Two thumbs up for this Human Transporter
Well, let me be the first to tell you that The Segway Human Transporter is a wonderful innovation. I'd been waiting a good while for a quality human transporter, and finally, I felt my waiting had paid off. This baby hit the market, I quickly dished out the 4K needed, and the transporting began. Everything was great, laziness was at an all time high, I really felt like the future was now. "Look at me and my transporter" I'd shout, then I'd turn and mumble to myself, "You fools and your walking and non-space age way of transporting." Life was peachy. Then it came, my boss, Gargon IV, said there was a dilemma on the planet Xaoton 99. I was all over it. I had my Segway transport me, (bet you didn't know it was capable of galactic transport) all the way to Xaoton, with the Segway making the trip quite comfortable and relaxing. I arrived at Xaoton and things were all messed up. I soon found myself in a sticky situation, but it was nothing that the Segway couldn't get me out of. Things got ugly. To make a long story short, the Segway overcame a highly advanced Xaotion army with highly highly evolved technology and all kinds of super high tech lazer guns. So the planet of Xaoton 99 came to peace in the end and everyone was happy

And boy was I glad that my knees didn't catch a lazer because I just wouldn't look as cool anymore on my Segway without the lower half of my legs. The Segway is an amazing improvement in human transporting, it's amazing we can look ahead to the wonderful world of hover transporters travelling warp 10. The Segway Human Transporter is a great start, now lets keep the ball rolling.

Are these things actually selling??
I don't think these are really selling. I think all the positive feedback here is to generate hype in the hope that they can sell some of these things. I've never seen a Segway in real life. Maybe it's because I've never been to Europe (the biggest proponents seem to be from across the pond).

I agree with someone in a previous post who said there is nothing sillier that a grown man on a Segway. Heck, a grown woman would look pretty silly too. And a teenager? All his/her friends would mock them unmercifully. And kids? Probably not safe, and they should be walking/biking anyway to develop their little muscles. So who's left? Only the Segway marketing department... ... Read more

Asin: B0000AVB7N
Subjects:  1. Computerized cart; pseries;Two-wheeled platform; ht;h t;    2. Motorcart; Motion machine ;htpseries;Standing vehicle; transport    3. segwue; sague; sigue; sigway;sigwey;thingy;transportation    4. deposit; dean; p-133; htp133; kaman;deka; first;133    5. invention; new;self-balancing;travel;navigate;pursuit;pedestrian