Universal Windshield Holder (360° degree Rotatable)
Maker: Unknown
Site : Buy from Brando
Price: $12.00

Overview : This item holds your Cellphone, PDA, PSP, MP3 player and any other electronic devices it can hold. You can stick this onto the windshield of you car and view movies or listen to music from your PSP with ease. There are other windshield holders out there but none really rotate at 360°.

* viewing of PSP while driving is not condoned by DCEmu and is not held liable for any accidents. Use at your own risk.

Features :

• New design, good outlook
• No tools required - easy to install
• Convenient, reliable and easy to use
• Flexible pedestal shaft adjusts quickly
• Suitable for cellular phones and PDAs

Specification :

• 360° Rotatable
• Adjustable stroboscope mount width: 52-80mm
• Flexible arm (165mm)
• Suction pad with lock knob

Package Contents :

• One stroboscope mount
• One flexible arm
• Two vent pothook

Quality/Usability : When I first got the item, the packaging was in a regular cardboard box, not the usual blister plastic packs. Upon opening the item, the two vent packs are in a small ziplock type bag, the flexible arm was wrapped in bubblewrap and the mount was just in the box. But the overall quality of the item is sturdy and solid. The neck itself is about 9 inches long and the mount itself is about 4 inches tall and 3 inches wide with the side 'arms' closed. With the side 'arms' spread open, its about 4 1/2 inches side. The side 'arms' of the mount spreads open with a click of a button on the side. The bottom 'legs' of the mount open up also for those bigger devices but require manual opening. The top 'head' moves up to accomodate those longer devices for more support. With the side 'arms' open completely, there is more than enough room to slide the PSP into. The 360 degree rotating idea is great for those who have a PSP, PDA, MP3 player, etc. and can rotate the holder to accomdate to whatever device they are using without having to have different holders in the car.

Installation : Once everything was taken out, installation was pretty easy.

Windshield:

• Set main unit in foot-rest (clip with neck)
• Remove protection paper from the bottom of suction cup
• Place suction cup of foot-rest direct towards windshield and press then lock device on
• Place the holder onto top of dashboard for addiction support

Vent:

• Set the pothook in main unit an dput them on the correct position
• Set the device in vent

Considering this is made from Asia, the english of the instructions were a little weird, so I reworded it. Its easy as putting legos together without even having to read the instructions.

Conclusion : I have another windshield mount that I purchased on eBay that I use. Unfortunately, that one required some modificiation (cutting down on rubber and plastic). With this, there is more than enough room to fit the PSP without any modifications done to it. Just spread the side 'arms' open, slip your PSP into position and squeeze the side 'arms' closed to secure the PSP in place. I dont like the idea of the item being on the vent considering the weight of the PSP can damage your vents and it blocks off the vent when it is in use, especially a hot and humid summer.

What I like about this is the amount of room to fit your device, the sturdiness of the product and the ability to rotate it 360°. The price of the item is affordable and reasonable. I paid more for the one I ordered on eBay .

But use this at your own risk and safety. Watching PSP movies while driving can cause accidents. Also, viewing of items on your windshield blocks your view and distracts you so this is illegal in some states.

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Evolve PSP Faceplate Crystal Clear
Manufacturer: Talismoon
Site: Buy from Divineo US / Buy from Divineo China
Price: $14.99


Overview : It's time to get creative with the Talismoon Evolve series! Evolve for PSP are a refreshing blend of complete and easy to install faceplates to brighten up your mood and undoubtedly your PSP.

At a period where customization is crucial, each evolve faceplate brings a special edition PSP into the range of everybody regardless of technical know-how.

Quality/Usability : Packaging design is very thought out and cleaver. With the inclusion of an installation guide, torx wrench and screwdriver, installation would be very easy. The quality of build is top-notch. Talismoon has never disappointed anyone with their line of products. The faceplate fits perfectly on the PSP without any problems. They also included a set of buttons to be used instead of the original PSP buttons. The Crystal faceplate gives the PSP a whole new look. Not only can you see the parts and innards of PSP system, it makes the system stand out.

If you like to modify your electronics, adding LEDs to this will make your PSP even hotter and more unique.

Included:

• 1x PSP Faceplate
• 1x set of PSP diamond series buttons (original psp buttons can also be used)
• 1x optimal precision jeweler's screwdriver
• 1x illustrated installation diagrams
• 1x unique polishing cloth

Conclusion : Overall, the Evolve PSP Faceplate Crystal Clear is a great product. If you ever wanted a clear look to your PSP, this is the way to go. It even comes with clear buttons to match the faceplate. It would have been nice if they were able to print the words for POWER, MEMORY STICK icon and whatever else there is.

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Griffin iTrip FM Transmitter PSP
Manufacturer: Griffin Technology
Site: Buy from Griffin
Price: $24.99

Overview : Offering a sleek, slim design that slides securely onto the bottom of the PSP quickly and easily, without adding bulk, the iTrip’s easy to read display sends audio right to your radio. Rock your game, movies and music through your own home and car systems and you’ll never go back to the stock speakers.

Technical Specifications :

• Built-in antenna
• Power requirement: 2 AA Batteries (included)
• Modulation: FM Stereo
• Frequencies: 88.1-107.9MHz
• High stability crystal oscillator, phase-lock loop control
• Frequency response: 50Hz to 15KHz
• Operating range: 10-30 ft
• Dimensions: 5.81" x 1.49" x .092" (147.7mm x 38mm x 23.4mm)
• FCC compliant

Quality/Usability : With Griffin being well known for their iPod accessories, Griffin decided to port their ever so popular iTrip for the iPod to the PSP.

The design and sleek which matches the look of the PSP. The iTrip PSP runs on 2 AA batteries (included) which are located on the back. On the front, are three buttons which is used for your presets, an LED display to show you what station you are using, LX (stereo)/DX (monaural), -/+ buttons to select between stations and a SELECT Button.

In order for the iTrip PSP to work, you have to select your frequency to a station where you hear nothing but static or silence, with no music in the background. Once the iTrip is plugged into the bottom of the PSP, you will need to change the frequency on the iTrip to that of the one on the radio.

First you'll need to press the iTrip's "SELECT" button twice. This will flash the frequency numbers. To change the frequency, you'll have to press the - or + buttons. Once you have selected the frequency that matches the radio, press the "SELECT" button once to confirm.

To store up to 3 frequency's, all you have to do is press the SELECT button once and choose either 1, 2 or 3 and hold down that corresponding button for 3 seconds. If you want to choose a preset frequence, just press the SELECT button once and then press either 1, 2 or 3 for the station you want.

The iTrip lets you play in either Stereo (LX) or Monaural (DX) mode. To toggle between Stereo and Mono, you would press the SELECT button three times and the mode indicator (LX or DX) will flash. Press the + button to toggle between LX and DX. Once you have chosen a mode, press SELECT to confirm the change.

Since the iTrip occupies the headphone jack and power plug, the bottom of the iTrip has what you would call, a pass-through port. Even with the iTrip connected, you can charge your PSP and listen to music. Unfortunately, it wont allow you to use a remote control headset and it will not charge the batteries in the iTrip.

iTrip was tested both inside a house and in the car. If you have a car that does not let you manually scan for frequency, you'll have a problem as the car radio will only look for stations that has signal. With the iTrip connected the sound is clear coming out of the radio but as like any other FM transmitter, sound is very low and you will either have to raise the volume on your PSP and/or on your radio. Just remember that if you do raise the volume on your radio, to lower the volume before you disconnect the iTrip from the PSP.

I must say though, even on the road whether its in a crowded area with tall building or in non-congested area, the quality is still clear. Whats great is that the RoadDock PSP fits well with it as the iTrip has a small groove that allows the RoadDock to somewhat clip onto it.

Conclusion : Overall, the Griffin iTrip FM Transmitter PSP does a great job of transferring sound to your radio. This comes in handy for those on long roadtrips where you want music from your PSP to be played through the speakers of your car. This can also become a nice little prank if someone you know is using a radio and you "intercept" their frequency and play something of yours. The iTrip unfortunately does not have a ON/OFF button and the LED display turns off automatically after a few seconds even when in use. It would have been nice if they did add one. Griffin also included a nice little pouch to store your iTrip. The pouch is a little big for it though.

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Capdase Alumor Metal & Silicone Case
Manufacturer: Capdase
Site: Buy from Play-Asia (grey) / Buy from Play-Asia (red) / Buy from Play-Asia (silver) / Buy from Play-Asia (blue) / Buy from Play-Asia (purle) / Buy from Play-Asia (pink) / Buy from Play-Asia (gold)
Price: $14.90

Overview : Capdase Metal hard cases for PSP have always been hot demanding products among stylish gamers worldwide. Taking the successful Alumor (Anodized Aluminum) case technology from iPod products, Capdase announced to launch the new hard cases for PSP. You protect your console first with a layer of Soft Jacket and then cover it up with the colorful and stylish metal hard case. Available in 7 different colors, Red, Blue, Purple, Grey, Silver, Gold and Pink.

Features :

• 2in1 excellent protection: Soft Jacket & anodized aluminium casing
• Precisely molded case for perfect fitting
• Detachable movie stand included for movie & picture viewing
• Innovative "unbreakable screen cover" for total screen protection
• Protects against drops, shocks, dust, dirt & scratches
• Easy access to all controls & buttons
• Attractive choice of colors to personalize your game console

Quality/Usability : The Capdase Alumor Metal & Silicone case is a 2-in-1. Capdase decided to add a metal casing to their ever so popular silicone case for the PSP. The silicon case protects the PSP both front and back. The silicone case leaves the directional pad, analog stick and face buttons open except for the bottom row buttons. The Alumor also comes with a durable screen protector for the silicone case. On the back of the silicone case, there is an opening for easy access to your UMD tray. There are also openings for you to charge your PSP, power switch, WiFi switch, USB port and headphone jack.

To insert your PSP into the silicone case, you must slide the PSP into the Soft Jacket. Once its in place, you can place the screen protector on top with the cushion side down.

The Alumor case is made of metal. The metal case consists of two cases. To form the casing, place the front metal cover on top and push down onto the Soft Jacket. Then place the back cover on top and push down to ensure closure. Like the silicone case, the metal case has opening that are easily accessible to all buttons and ports. On the back of the metal case is a stand. This is great if you want to prop the PSP for easy viewing while watching a movie. The stand is also detachable. Unfortunately, the metal casing does not have an opening for the UMD tray. In order to swap games, you must remove the metal back casing.

To remove the back casing, just push the front and back metal cover away from each other in the opposite direction.

Conclusion : Overall, the Capdase Alumor Metal and Silicone case is a nice product. It feels comfortable in the hands. Its nice that you can have either the option of using just the silicone case or the silicone case with the metal case. You will not be able to use the metal case only as it is too loose for the PSP alone. It can be annoying having to remove the metal casing everytime you want to swap UMDs.

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PSP 3600mAh Battery Pack
Manufacturer: Dragonplus
Site : Buy from Brando
Price: $20.00

Overview : This battery pack provides 1800mAh of extra power for your PSP console, double the battery life and extend your play time.

Features :

• Extended to 3600mAh after installing the original battery
• Extend your play time
• Inner lithium battery
• 1800mAh, 3.7V
• Size : 72.8 x 47.8 x 31.3 mm
• Weight : 59gm

Quality/Usability : This isnt your normal external battery pack where you charge and than plug into your PSP. This one is actually like an attachment or an adapter (see pictures). Installation setup is easy and is just like you would place the PSP battery into the PSP..just that there is an extra attachment.

Installation :

• Open PSP battery cover
• Take out PSP battery
• Place PSP battery into battery pack
• Place PSP battery cover onto battery pack
• Place PSP battery pack into PSP system
• Complete

Unlike the other battery packs, there is no charging. You dont plug this into any adapters and there is no ON/OFF switch to conserve battery. Just simply place this inside the PSP's battery port and place the PSP battery into this battery pack and thats it.

To remove the battery pack, there is a button that you press on top. Removing the battery itself is a little hard. I had to use a credit card to get pop it out. Other than that..the battery and battery pack fit snuggly in its place.

The packaging of the battery claims you get up to 12 hours. Thats an additional 6-8 hours.

Conclusion : This is a nice piece of an accessory. Blends in with the PSP nicely. It even accepts the PSP battery cover to cover the back. My only complaint is the size of it. Its kind of bulky, so it gets a little use to. Not to mention, if you're using a Logitech PlayGear Pocket, you wont be able to use the case at all due to the size of the battery pack. You'll either have to eliminate the use of the case or remove the battery pack each time you're not playing.

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Slappa Hardbody Complete Case
Manufacturer: Slappa
Site: Buy from Slappa
Price: $29.99

Overview : The HardBody PSP Complete Case features the same highly protective xEVA shell as SLAPPA's award-winning HardBody CD and DVD line. It offers a storage capacity capable of carrying a gamer's full PSP collection for home storage that is also highly portable for travel. A hand sewn UMD storage page holds 6 UMDs, while separate Velcro secured scubaprene storage bags are provided for protecting and storing PSP, extra UMDs, headphones and remote separately. The PSP Complete's design is rounded out with a rainproof zipper and dual rubber SLAPPA logo pulls for an all-inclusive and sleek PSP storage case.

Features :

• xEVA shell with graphite and patent PVC exterior
• Large cargo net storage pocket inside case cover for storing extra PSP accessories
• Storage divider with secure Velcro closure to hold products in place and prevent scratching
• Super-soft, hand sewn UMD storage page with max. capacity of 6 discs

Quality/Usability : This is pretty much an all in one carry case. Not only does it protect your PSP and all your games and accessories, it carries them all. The case itself features a graphite and patent PVC outer design over a xEVA HardBody shell. When you first open it, on the left side (underside of cover), is a cargo net storage where you can put your charger, headphones and other accessories. You have one divider that protects items from falling out of the cargo net storage area. The second divider is where you can store up to 6 UMDs. Each flap have velcros to prevent the flaps from moving and secures the UMDs in place.

Conclusion : Overall, this is a well laid out design. Its convenient and very sturdy. This case is for those who carry lots of games and accessories with them and need them all in one spot. Considering the size is big, it would be nice to have a little hand or some sort to make carrying a little better.

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Bannco xScorch Scorch 360 PC
Manufacturer: Bannco
Site: Buy from Play-Asia / Buy from Divineo US / Buy from Divineo China / Buy from Divineo France / Buy from Amazon / Buy from Bannco Authorized Dealers
Price: $79.99


Overview : The Scorch controller is the most advanced universal cross-platform gaming tool for PC and Xbox 360. Scorch is compatible with all PC and 360 games. Use the mouse for targeting prey while moving with the left hand grip for full motion control. Between the Mouse and Grip, Scorch contains all the normal Xbox 360 controller buttons making it ideal for that first person PC shooter game style you’re used to. Get the PC experience on the console or play PC games on a TV without a keyboard.

Programmable, digital sniper buttons and upgradeable firmware provide unprecedented levels of accuracy and customization. Scorch is also a full featured wireless PC gaming WASD controller.

The ultra-high resolution laser mouse and pistol grip is the best game controller in the world.

Note: You will need a wired Xbox 360 controller to first initiate Scorch on the 360. After initiated, you use the Mouse and Grip as a full featured wireless game controller.
Note: Wireless communicator is suggested.

Features:

• Officially licensed product.
• High End 2.4G wireless laser mouse controller combo set
• Cross-platform with full Xbox360 and PC game support.
• Adjustable sensitivity.
• Designed for high precision and speed.

Quality/Usability : XCM is known for their XFPS line which allows you to use a keyboard and mouse combination for speed and accuracy as you would find when playing PC first person shooters. Although majority of gamers would consider the Xbox 360 as the ideal controller when playing first person shooter, some may not. Especially PC gamers. The Scorch (sometimes also called xScorch) has a bit of both mouse, keyboard and controller all mashed into one, combining a wireless mouse with a wireless nunchuck like controller called a WASD grip. Included in the packaging along with the wireless controllers is a USB dongle, short USB to mini USB cable, quick start card (on a piece of paper) and extra pads for the bottom of the mouse. No instruction manual or software disc is included. The quick start card is very vague and did not give a lot of information. But for a more detailed manual, visit here. If you want more information on setting up and other information, visit Bannco's website.

The quality of the controllers are actually pretty good. The casings have a solid feel to them. The buttons feel good, they click and are laid out in a place where its comfortable and easy to reach. Both the grip and mouse require 1x AA battery each. So that means the mouse uses 1 AA battery and the grip uses 1 AA battery. On the mouse, the expected right (RB) and left (RT) mouse buttons, 4-way depressable scroll wheel, a power/start button, the familiar A, B, X and Y buttons on the left side where you thumb would rest and a "F" button above where your thumb rests. The "F" button acts as a function where you would hold down the "F" button and scroll the wheel mouse up or down to increase or decrease sensitivity, respectively and to activate rapid fire. The WASD grip is also decked out with buttons. It has the 4 directional buttons in the middle of the grip, analog joystick, power/guide button, back button and upper (LB) and lower (LT) trigger buttons. Unfortunately, you will not be able to power on the Xbox 360 with the Scorch 360. If the mouse and grip has been inactive for 8 mins, it will automatically shut off so it does not drain your battery. If the LEDs on the grip or mouse flash fast, this indicates low battery and that it would need to be replaced.

To setup the Scorch 360 on your Xbox 360, plug your wired Xbox 360 controller into the short USB to mini USB cable. Plug the mini USB cable into the Scorch USB Dongle and than plug the dongle into one of the front USB ports on the Xbox 360. Press the power button on the top of the Mouse and press the Guide button on the Grip to power up.


Pressing the Mouse wheel down acts as your Right Analog Stick Down. If you press and hold the F button and roll the wheel forward, you increase the sensitivity. To decrease sensitivity, press and hold the F button and roll the wheel backward. Note that there are 20 sensitivity adjustments when on the Xbox 360. To turn on or off the mouse wheel features - press and hold mouse F and press mouse wheel down. You can also use the 4-way directional wheel mouse for quick view to the left, right, up and down. To enable or disable rapid fire, press and hold the F button then press RT (Left Click). You can adjust the shot repetition in the xScorch Setup Utility.

In order to remap the buttons you would need a Windows XP/Vista operated PC. Sorry Mac users. The xScorch Setup Utility allows you to remap both Xbox 360 and PC use. The configuration is fairly simple. There are pictures of the buttons and a map of a the controller. To change a button, simply drag the button to the location you want to place it. If you remap the buttons, they are saved onto the mouse and/or grip so you will not have to remap them everytime. But if you're playing a different game and want to remap them to a different setup, you'll need to use the software.
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KontrolFreek SpeedFreek Joystick
Manufacturer: KontrolFreek
Site: Buy from KontrolFreek / Buy from Amazon
Price: $9.95 (pack of 2) / $17.50 (pack of 4)


Overview : SpeedFreek allows you to relax your thumb and not worry about sliding off the analog stick. With its unique design, SpeedFreek keeps your thumb on the existing analog stick surface. There is no separation between the natural geometry that you have learned to use. The additional supporting side walls enable quicker and sharper movements, while adding control and precision. As a result, gamers report less stress on their thumbs and quicker lap times.

Quality/Usability : As more and better racing games comes out (both in gameplay and graphics), gamers want that semi-real racing effect. Gamers will pay up to $150 for a steering wheel with force feedback. I have been a big fan of racing games since the days of Rage Racer and Gran Turismo. I got my first steering wheel peripheral when Logitech released the Driving Force Feedback Steering Wheel for Gran Turismo 3 on the PlayStation 2. Luckily, at the time of release, I worked Electronics Boutique and got the steering wheel for free for working on launch and meeting creator of the game, Kazunori Yamauchi.

With the expensive price tag for steering wheel, who can afford them considering games themselves cost $50-60 each. Not to mention, the size of these peripherals and the amount of room they take up. KontrolFreek aims to solve both the cost and size factor by offering SpeedFreek.

SpeedFreek is made of plastic and in the shape of a "U" or a half-pipe. The design is very simple and basic and comes in two colors; white and black. The SpeedFreek attaches to the left analog thumb-stick. There are prongs that attaches to the thumb-stick. The side rails provide extra leverage in racing games. Turning in corners and passing cars was smoother than ever. I no longer had to nudge the joystick in order to make the turn. With a slight move of the thumb-stick, I was able to squeeze into tight spots as opposed to using a regular thumb-stick and bouncing off cars like a pinball machine.

The packaging is eye-catching. As mentioned at the very top, you can purchase a pack of two or four. The SpeedFreek comes packaged in a plastic tube. Inside the plastic tube is the SpeedFreeks are holding instructions rolled up. This also helps the SpeedFreek stay upright and in place.

Conclusion : Overall, the KontrolFreek SpeedFreek Joystick works great for racing games. No more nudging of the thumb-stick. Now I have a can make smooth turns every time and it also improved my lap times. I tried the SpeedFreek with a FPS game such as Gears of War and GRAW2 and although it helped me with my aim and accuracy, it wasnt perfect. Whats great is that it works both on the PS3 and Xbox 360. If you're interested in the FPS version, be sure to order yours here.

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XCM XFPS Sniper
Manufacturer: XCM
Site: Buy from Goldenshop
Price: $79-89.99


Overview : The ultimate way to utilize a keyboard and mouse on your Xbox 360 console just got even better! XCM has lisented to customer feedback and have produced the Sniper Edition XFPS 360 console which allows for total keyboard and mouse control on the Xbox 360, which results in a vastly improved gameplay experience on top selling titles such as Halo 3 and BioShock. The Sniper also supports the use of Playstation controllers on the Xbox 360 and this simply could not have come at a better time with the release of Pro Evolution Soccer 2008. XCM are sure that this latest build is the gateway to perfect keyboard and mouse play and promises greater sensitivity, greater smoothness and greater sniper like precision.

The XFPS 360 is an innovative keyboard and mouse adapter for the Xbox 360 which begins an unrivalled First Person Shooter (FPS) experience to the next-generation gaming console. Not only is the XFPS 360 compatible with all standard PS/2 input devices but also modern USB keyboards and mice. But wait, there's more! The XFPS 360 even makes traditional PS2 DualShock2 controllers compatible on the Xbox 360, as well as a plethora of peripherals. This exquiste device even manages to bring auto fire functionality to the Xbox 360, now that tops off what promises to be the must have peripheral for years to come!

Features :

• Compatible with most PS/2 or USB keyboard and mouse combinations, those expensive FPS set-ups have not gone to waste!
• Instant plug and play technology
• Ideal for use with all FPS titles such as Call of Duty and Halo series
• Highly durable modern ‘black’ coloured shell
• Brings all new auto fire functionality to the Xbox 360
• Allows gamers to use PS2’s Dual-Shock 2™ controller on the Xbox 360 ™
• Enjoy enhanced performance on titles such as Pro Evolution Soccer 6, which originally debuted on the Playstation™.

XFPS 360 is also compatible with:

• PS 2 Light Gun
• PS 2 Racing Wheel - The XBOX 360 steering controller is very expensive, but you can use the PS 2 steering wheel for it now
• PS 2 Dancing mat
• PS 2 Guitar
  etc.

Quality/Usability : As we have already reviewed the original XCM XFPS 360 and XCM XFPS 360 PRO, this review will just talk about the new feature that was added to the 3.0 Sniper Edition.

The 3.0 Sniper Edition is nothing more than just a slight improvement and color change from the XFPS 360 PRO version. Instead of white with black dials, its lime green with white dials. Design is the same exact thing with no change except for what was mentioned above. The only difference is the slight improvement to deadzones on the XFPS.

With the XFPS PRO, I used an adapter called SmartJoy Frag that was made for the PS2. This helped eliminate majority of the deadzones. But to get this adapter to work, you needed to modify it so that it would output enough power to power your keyboard and mouse.


The 3.0 Sniper Edition tried to incorporate both the XFPS PRO and features of the SmartJoy Frag. The Sniper Edition did a good job of removing any deadzones but at a price. Below is a video of the 3.0 Sniper Edition in action.


The same mouses and keyboards that worked on the XCM XFPS 360 PRO will also work on the Sniper Edition. You can view the list of recommended mouses at XCM's site.

Conclusion : Overall, the XFPS 360 3.0 Sniper removed deadzones that were on the XFPS PRO. There was not other improvements as it looked the same like its predecessor just a minor upgrade in color. Different people will have different buying opinions. Some prefer to get rid of the old and buy the latest upgrade while some prefer to keep the old and look for a way to improve or people will just complain. XCM should look into releasing an adapter like the SmartJoy Frag for those who purchased previous versions instead of releasing a slightly upgraded version and charging $80-90. Not only will early adopters lose money if resold but they have to shell out more money for the new upgrade.

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