TomTom GO 730 4.3-Inch Bluetooth Portable GPS Navigator (Factory Refurbished) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)There are alot of reviews out there for navigation units with comparisons between units made by different manufacturers, most stating that one is better than the other, which I found to be of no use since I almost never had the unit they were comparing to. So I have written this review as a review of the TomTom 730 rather than a comparison.
(please note this is the FACTORY REFURBISHED moel of the 730)
The 730 was well packed, and had a little bit of charge right out of the box. It includes all of the accessories and most of the literature that a new model does, including the windshield mount, dash disk, car charger, instruction manual and CD. There were no cosmetic blemishes on the unit I got. Refurbished units come with a shorter warranty, but the price difference more than makes up for lost warranty time.
The unit did arrive with an old map and firmware revision. After installing TomTom Home and creating a profile, the software asked me if I wanted to update the unit, and installed the most recent 'North American Maps' pack (includes USA and Canada) and 8.30 firmware. The download and installation process took a whopping 1.5 hours to download and install over a wireless broadband connection. Choosing to accept Mapshare, an additional 11386 corrections were added. I did not have to enter any update codes or call TomTom to get the latest map update. Other maps were listed as available at additional cost, but they were for other countries that I did not need.
After updating the unit, I took the 730 on a few trips to see how well it works. I travel roughly 1000 miles a week for business and pleasure, all over Maryland, DC and Northern Virginia. I have had several Nav units over the last two months trying to find the right one for me, and I am impressed with this unit. There are some problems with the unit, which are a result of the limitation of Nav units in general, rather than specific to the 730. An example: Whitehurst and Canal st in DC run literally on top of each other. Where they start you have a choice to go up or down, whereas the 730 tells you to go straight. Both choices are straight, and reagrdless of which you pick, the 730 continues to navigate as if you were heading down Whitehurst.
The 'IQ Routing' feature is absolutely the most useful feature of the unit. Anyone who lives in the DC metro area(or any other huge population dense area)knows that certain roads simply aren't passable during certain times of the day. I have used this feature extensively, and although there is room for improvement, it has found me several new, faster ways to get to common destinations. This nav unit is also the only one I have tested that correctly finds the fastest way to my home from the interstate.
Advanced Lane Guidance is a nice feature, during my travels I see it about twice a day. It works well, but the image for the I270/495 lanes divide on the inner loop shows the wrong number of lanes leading off to the spur. Other lane divides are accurate, why not this one?
The voice recognition navigation aspect works okay, it does a good job of recognizing what city and/or street that I said, but the whole system is a bit akward since it is a combination of screen presses and voice prompts. Still, it works well if you are patient with it and learn its qwerks.
The bluetooth function does not work with my phone (I have a really lousy phone)so I cannot comment on that, the FM transmitter works well if you can find a free frequency. Playing music from the TomTom was neat, and navigation prompts do come through the music when they occur.
TomTom Home and the community support it provides is awesome. Other than Mapshare (which is awesome in and of itself) there are differnt icons, voice prompts(which you can record yourself with the 730), display screen, map colors, and other customizable features that help you personalize and enhance the unit.
In summary, I believe I have found the right unit for me. The is the best navigation device I have used yet, and at the refurbished price it is well worth purchasing. I hope you found this review helpful.


Click Here to see more reviews about: TomTom GO 730 4.3-Inch Bluetooth Portable GPS Navigator (Factory Refurbished)

TomTom GO 730 REFURB Portable Navigator with Bluetooth. The TomTom GO 730 portable navigator offers you peace of mind when you're traveling with its powerful, yet easy-to-use features. You can use its 4.3" widescreen touch display to access detailed maps of the U.S. and Canada, and to explore over 5 million points of interest. The text-to-speech voice prompts announce actual road names at turns, giving you more helpful information when driving through unfamiliar areas. Refurbished.

Get 41% OFF

Click here for more information about TomTom GO 730 4.3-Inch Bluetooth Portable GPS Navigator (Factory Refurbished)

Gps, Automotive Mount, Temp & Perm Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I bought this for my Nuvi 660. The mount that comes in the box with the 660 uses a disc and suction cup and I found that when the weather was sufficiently hot the suction cup would come lose from the disc even if the Nuvi wasn't on the mount. I also found that the disc would separate, part of it staying stuck to the dash and part staying stuck to the suction cup. This mount can't have the first problem: the base sticks to the dash with adhesive and then there's a mechanical lock attaching the base to the stalk, so the only way it can come loose is if the adhesive doesn't stick, which hasn't happened so far. I was worried when the package arrived and the description on the outside was "automotive mount for Nuvi 330 and 360", and indeed the head of the mount is not suitable for a 660. Fortunately, you can remove the head of the mount that comes with the 660 (just pull it off the ball on the stalk) and put it on this mount, and it works just fine.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Gps, Automotive Mount, Temp & Perm

Garmin Automotive Mount 0101081501 842

Get 22% OFF

Click here for more information about Gps, Automotive Mount, Temp & Perm

ZAGG invisibleSHIELD NAV7100S for Navigon 7100 Screen (Clear) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This shield has done an incredible job of protecting my Navigon screen from damage. Unfortunately I am not delicate with my items and this shield has been a life saver. My screen is completely undamaged and still looks new. More than worth every penny spent.

Click Here to see more reviews about: ZAGG invisibleSHIELD NAV7100S for Navigon 7100 Screen (Clear)

Your search for a GPS case, skin, or cover is now over. ZAGG's invisibleSHIELD is an exceptionally clear and virtually indestructible film that will protect your GPS device from unsightly scratches. Our exclusive, patented film - with nano-memory technology - covers and shields your device, keeping it as pristine as the day you took it out of the box.The precision pre-cut invisibleSHIELD applies directly to your specific model GPS device, providing the toughest, most durable protection you will find. The invisibleSHIELD has its origins in the military, where it was used to protect high-speed helicopter blades from dust, dirt and debris. Now you can use that same powerful technology to protect your GPS device.The invisibleSHIELD is only .2 millimeters thick making it the slimmest GPS skin or cover of its kind. It is so tough that we back it with a lifetime guarantee. So, if it ever does wear or scratch, we will replace it for free, for the life of your device. And if you ever need to remove the invisibleSHIELD, no problem; it comes off clean and leaves no sticky residue.If you're still not convinced, check out our demo video and see for yourself how strong ZAGG's invisibleSHIELD really is.

Get 53% OFF

Click here for more information about ZAGG invisibleSHIELD NAV7100S for Navigon 7100 Screen (Clear)

Pioneer TS-A6993R 6-Inch X 9-Inch, 460-Watt 5-Way Speakers Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Great great speakers. The bass is almost like "true bass". The clarity is outstanding. I would tell anyone this product is great and needs to be purchased. I think I'll need to purchase an Amp just to get the full effect of what this speaker has to offer. GREAT GREAT BUY!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Pioneer TS-A6993R 6-Inch X 9-Inch, 460-Watt 5-Way Speakers

Pioneer's TS-A6993R 6-by-9-inch five-ways now feature upgraded power handling of 460 watts max. (80 watts nominal). And this year, the A-Series speaker line feature something they've inherited from the D-Series speakers, a basalt cone. Pioneer continues to set an example with next-generation technology for improved sound: the tweeter, magnets, surrounds, the voice coil wire, the basket and more are all high-performance components that make up a great speaker.

TS-A6993R Specs


Pioneer Car Audio SystemsPioneer's Mobile Business Group is known for offering the kind of in-car products that make driving more enjoyable by offering high quality audio and video, seamless connectivity and ease-of-use. Its focus is on the development of new digital technologies including audio video, navigation and satellite radio, while maintaining its strong heritage in products for car audio enthusiasts and sound competitors.
What's in the Box Pioneer TS-A6993R Five-Way Speaker (Pair), Mounting Hardware, Installation Guide

Get 57% OFF

Click here for more information about Pioneer TS-A6993R 6-Inch X 9-Inch, 460-Watt 5-Way Speakers

Garmin 010-11230-01 3.5-Inch Nuvi Travel Pack Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This has all the things you need that weren't included with the Nuvi - case, electical charger & other things. Great value, but Garmin really should include a case & electrical charger with the Nuvi.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Garmin 010-11230-01 3.5-Inch Nuvi Travel Pack

Imagine having all the accessories you need for a nuvi when traveling. Garmin has the solution and is pleased to announce three new accessory packs that will add convenience to your out of town excursion. These accessory kits will be available in a secure box with a hang tab. Package contains: nuvi 4.3 in carrying case, AC adapter cable with international adapters / North America, Europe and UK and USB cable

Get 8% OFF

Click here for more information about Garmin 010-11230-01 3.5-Inch Nuvi Travel Pack

TomTom GO 720 4.3-Inch Bluetooth Portable GPS Navigator Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I bought the TT GO 720 last week and it replaced my Garmin StreetPilot C340 that I gave to my partner. This device is very cool with lots of options. I'm very "tech" savvy so I like the fact that it allows for some
modification/personalization. Saying that it's not ideal for the average user. Garmin is much easier to use right out of the box without having to read any instructions at all. Some of the positives are the bluetooth capability which allows me to connect my Blackberry Pearl 8100 for hands-free calling. Unfortunately my phone is not compatible with the "GO-PLUS" features, for that I must have the device connected to my PC. The map layout is easy to see and the audio is very clear with the "text-to-speech" function. I also LOVE the fact that I can buy a cable for my
iPod and control it using the GO 720....that's great since I will no longer have to look down to change a song anymore. My biggest complaint by far is the lack of "Points of Interest" loaded. I think my Garmin came with over 6 Million POI's and the TT GO 720 has something in the 500,000 range. HUGE DISPARITY!! Without updating and loading dozens of separate POI files this thing couldn't even find local stores, gas

Click Here to see more reviews about: TomTom GO 720 4.3-Inch Bluetooth Portable GPS Navigator

TomTom\'s award-winning software means ground-breaking new technology for the ultimate driving experience. Switch on and go right out of the box. Just enter the address and start driving anywhere in the US and Canada. TomTom guides you door-to-door with turn-by-turn spoken instructions, including street names. TomTom has the most accurate maps and with TomTom MapShare technology you can instantly modify street names, street direction, and POIs on your own device. The GO 720 makes driving even safer with hands-free calling. And now, there are added safety features so you can easily access local emergency providers. The TomTom GO 720 sets the standard in smart car navigation.
Features







What's in the Box TomTom GO 720 device, windshield mount, adhesive mounting disk, home dock for charging and computer access, USB connection, USB car charger, TomTom HOME software, documentation pack
About TomTom Founded in Amsterdam in 1991, TomTom has established itself as a global leader in navigation by being an innovative company with a strong brand, clear customer focus, and high quality products and services.
TomTom is the world's leading navigation solutions provider with navigation products sold in 30 countries and in over 20 languages. To further our commitment to car navigation, TomTom acquired Tele Atlas maps in 2008 so we can continually provide the most up-to-date maps and intelligent routing.

We have our own mapping company! Did you know that every year roads change by up to 40% in high-growth areas? Tele Atlas manages this by using the world's most comprehensive systems to identify and incorporate these changes into our maps with unprecedented levels of speed and accuracy. All TomTom devices benefit from the Tele Atlas advantage--more coverage, more points of interest, and more freshness and accuracy.

Why TomTom? At TomTom, we believe that personal navigation should be as easy and safe as possible. We develop smart technology that gives you straightforward solutions, innovations to make life easy.

Click here for more information about TomTom GO 720 4.3-Inch Bluetooth Portable GPS Navigator

Delphi SA50000 XM SKYFi Radio Receiver Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)The SA50000 is well-worth the money. It's a bit bulky compared to the Roady 2 but you have to remember that the Roady is for car audio use only. The SA50000 can be installed on a boombox/indoor unit or in the car so you get both functions with this receiver. When you buy this receiver, there are no accessories included except the remote. Use a C2032 battery to power the remote. So before you head out and buy this, don't forget to buy the battery. I had to open one of my old motherboards and pulled out the battery. I don't think it's mentioned on the packaging about what type of battery it uses. So I'm saving you all a headache and telling you. Ok let's start off with the installation. I bought a Delphi Boombox to hook up the receiver. To actually review this product, I would have to review the boombox as well cos without a boombox or car adaptor, this receiver is useless. So...installing the receiver is quite easy on the boombox. The boombox has a cradle that catches the receiver. Be careful not to force the receiver into the cradle mount. Just slide the receiver into the cradle. The contact pins should catch the receiver in the cradle, and then lightly push the receiver forward. Push the receiver on the top-most part of the device. Push the receiver until it clicks. To unseat the receiver, just push it again and it will make a faint click. Pull the receiver off gently.
Now, to activate. It's really a painless process. Make sure that the receiver is hooked up and seated properly in the boombox cradle. Ok, power-up the boombox and receiver. Just have your credit card ready, a pen, and a piece of paper. Once the receiver is powered-up, go to Radio ID channel. To switch channels, use the rotary dialer until it says Radio ID. It should give you the Radio ID number. Copy it and then activate it online. Activation fee via online is about $2.00 less than if you activate it over the phone. Once you get a message on the XMradio activation page, go back to your receiver and start looking for the channels, starting with channel 1,4,5,6,7, then 122. You can also use the number keys to switch channels. The ENTER key is that big button on the rotary dialer's hub. If after activating it, you don't get any sound from the channels I mentioned, please don't blow a gasket. Give it like about 30 mins. for the satellite to update your receiver. After about 30 minutes, you should be getting most if not all 120 channels.
Now the remote...well one thing is missing on the remote and that's the MENU key that's found on the receiver. Maybe it's somewhere on the remote but I haven't found it yet. Remote is fairly straightforward operation. As for the boombox, it comes with an antenna. It has a 20 ft. cable. I suggest you put the antennae close to a window in your house. It says to look for the southern part of the house to get best results. I didn't bother looking for itcos how many people here in US know exactly where the south part of their house is? Anyways, get the antenna on an elevated position and turn it towards the window. The receiver has a function that will tell you the signal strength of the satellite waves and the terrestrial repeater waves. You can access this by going to MENU and then scroll down to Antenna Setup. If you see four-bars filled for satellite and three bars filled for terrestrial, then you are GOOD TO GO. The boombox packs a wallop! The sound is crisp, tight, and powerful. I have it at level 20 volume and it's shaking my lounge. I don't know what the max volume is and I won't even try it. The boombox comes with a humongous sized power adapter to power your receiver and boombox. Overall, the SA50000 is a fantastic receiver, it's easy to install, activate, and it gives a nice clear sound and signal. My suggestion is buy SA50000 and keep it for home use only. If you want to have a satellite radio for the car, I suggest you get the Roady 2.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Delphi SA50000 XM SKYFi Radio Receiver

Delphi's XM SKYFi Radio Receiver gives you plug-and-play satellite radio for the car, home, office, or virtually anywhere you want to enjoy XM's 101 channels of programming. SKYFi is your XM satellite-radio interface, pulling in the radio signal and letting you navigate between channels. Besides a monthly subscription to XM Radio ($9.99 per month), you'll need a home or vehicle kit in order to listen to the SKYFi receiver.The SKYFi receiver's large display concurrently shows channel number, channel name, artist name, song title, and channel category. SKYFi also comes with a remote control for convenient channel navigation. Select a large font size for viewing the song title, artist name or channel number from across the room.You can navigate through direct-channel entry from both the receiver and the remote, and you can program up to 20 channel presets for one-button tuning to your station of choice. The channel guide lets you view 5 channels at a time while scrolling through the channels by channel name, number, artist name, or song title. You can also skip or add channels while scrolling. In addition, a "favorites" mode lets you preview the artist name and song title currently playing on your favorite channels before you select one. SKYFi accessory kits for the home and vehicle let you enjoy uninterrupted XM radio service in any vehicle, at home, or at the office. The SKYFi vehicle adaptor kit can adapt to any existing car stereo system with mounting options, and the SKYFi home adaptor kit is adaptable to most home or workplace audio systems and multimedia speakers.XM's digital programming lineup features 70 music channels, many of them commercial-free, from hip hop to opera, classical to country, bluegrass to blues; and 31 channels of sports, talk, children's programming, and entertainment.What's in the Box Receiver, remote control, remote battery, a user's manual, and warranty information.

Click here for more information about Delphi SA50000 XM SKYFi Radio Receiver