Re: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

[Hamit Campos]

Yeah like I said the 1 thing I give the victors is the fact that they 
play a whole bunch of formats. But what's the point of it being able to 
play FLAC for instance if the speaker ain't hi fy enough nor are the 
headphone pres? Meh maybe I'm just too spoiled by Bose. Cause when I 
brought out my PTR1 just for fun last summer it was kinda meh to my 
ears. But The Victors are still more meh to me. Saddly even the Strattus 
that I have. I've not heard the Stream 2. So who really knows about that 
1. But for books maybe they're okay.



On 5/1/2017 11:41 PM, JOHN RIEHL wrote:

I have the Victor Stream 2nd gen; this is my third. For what I use it for -- 
reading books -- it's great! I can create .mp3 files of books using K1000 or 
download talking books or audible books. I don't use the wireless feature. You 
can connect an external speaker using a patch cord; it works great! I use the 
In-motion speaker; I have my Victor connected to it. I also use headphones or 
the little internal speaker. It isn't perfect; I'd love for it to have 
Bluetooth. But I'm quite happy with my Stream.

-Original Message-
From: Pc-audio [mailto:pc-audio-boun...@pc-audio.org] On Behalf Of Hamit Campos
Sent: Monday, May 01, 2017 11:35 PM
To: PC Audio Discussion List
Subject: Re: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

Yeah the audio is kinda meh. You're right Dain. An IOS device and or
especially a samsung device do sound better. Ah I can hear the apple
fans now. How dare you? Did you just dare with a streight face tell me a
samsung device sounds loads better than an IPhone? Yeah I did. Kinda off
this topic but I noted the difference with my nephew Jonathan's note
phone. Now the quality thing. Could thhis be cause it's for DAISY books
for the most part? But I'm not sure about that cause Plextalk is better.
The PTP1 sounded better to me when I saw them at the NFB national
convention in 2013. I was also shocked that the PTP1 aka the Plextalk
pocket looks so much like it's a mini PTR1. But then to get back to the
topic at hand well at the time at least the streem 1 was such a
prediction of the Strattus players. How does the Streem do connected to
an external speaker though? To me the headphone pres of the strattus and
the Clasic ain't that good.They too are meh. Exeptable I suppose but meh
not hi fy.


On 5/1/2017 8:09 PM, Dane Trethowan wrote:

If you have nothing to compare the speaker of the VR Stream to then
yep its probably very good audio however I have plenty of devices
around my house - roughly the same size - which I can compare the
Stream to and - given that - I can tell you that audio from the
internal speaker of the Stream is not good, is muffled and should be -
in my view - better than it is given other basic devices are these days.

You mention listening to music through headphones etc and you're quite
right as you get the full benefit of better audio however I do invite
you - if you haven't already done so - to listen to music through the
internal speaker of say an iPhone 6S or a Samsung Galaxy S6 and you'll
soon hear a huge difference.

Again no, not an ideal listening environment but its certainly a vast
improvement on what the Stream gives you and through a smaller speaker.

I will say however that the audio from the second generation of stream
is quite an improvement upon that of the first generation.



On 2/05/2017 9:28 AM, Tom Kaufman wrote:

I've never thought of the Victor Stream's audio as being
"muffled"...having said this, I think of it more like the sound of a
6-transistor radio!  If you plug it into a good speaker or a good set
of headphones, you do get a pretty good sound!  But no...if I'm going
to listen to any music on that thing, I'd much prefer an external
speaker or headphones!
Tom Kaufman

-Original Message-
From: Pc-audio [mailto:pc-audio-boun...@pc-audio.org] On Behalf Of
Dane Trethowan
Sent: Monday, May 01, 2017 5:34 PM
To: PC Audio Discussion List 
Subject: Re: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

I just shake my head though when it comes to that muffled speaker for
audio, all my phones do far better than what the Stream does but then
again audio has always been a problem with the Stream.

The handling of multiple format files - for recording as well as
playback - is a welcom addition and - at the very least - the quality of
audio from the headphones jack seems to be quite acceptable.



On 2/05/2017 2:41 AM, Evan Reese wrote:

As to slow downloading of data, I have noticed with ours, and those of
some friends, that it doesn't seem to have a great wi-fi transceiver
in it. Even when I'm close to my router, it usually says that
reception is poor.
Other than that, you are right, a lot of functionality in that little
package.
Evan

-Original Message- From: Dane Trethowan
Sent: Monday, May 01, 2017 10:24 AM
To: PC Audio Discussion List
Subject: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

Hi!

I just bought one of these units and would like to make comment on my

RE: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

[JOHN RIEHL]

I have the Victor Stream 2nd gen; this is my third. For what I use it for -- 
reading books -- it's great! I can create .mp3 files of books using K1000 or 
download talking books or audible books. I don't use the wireless feature. You 
can connect an external speaker using a patch cord; it works great! I use the 
In-motion speaker; I have my Victor connected to it. I also use headphones or 
the little internal speaker. It isn't perfect; I'd love for it to have 
Bluetooth. But I'm quite happy with my Stream. 

-Original Message-
From: Pc-audio [mailto:pc-audio-boun...@pc-audio.org] On Behalf Of Hamit Campos
Sent: Monday, May 01, 2017 11:35 PM
To: PC Audio Discussion List
Subject: Re: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

Yeah the audio is kinda meh. You're right Dain. An IOS device and or 
especially a samsung device do sound better. Ah I can hear the apple 
fans now. How dare you? Did you just dare with a streight face tell me a 
samsung device sounds loads better than an IPhone? Yeah I did. Kinda off 
this topic but I noted the difference with my nephew Jonathan's note 
phone. Now the quality thing. Could thhis be cause it's for DAISY books 
for the most part? But I'm not sure about that cause Plextalk is better. 
The PTP1 sounded better to me when I saw them at the NFB national 
convention in 2013. I was also shocked that the PTP1 aka the Plextalk 
pocket looks so much like it's a mini PTR1. But then to get back to the 
topic at hand well at the time at least the streem 1 was such a 
prediction of the Strattus players. How does the Streem do connected to 
an external speaker though? To me the headphone pres of the strattus and 
the Clasic ain't that good.They too are meh. Exeptable I suppose but meh 
not hi fy.


On 5/1/2017 8:09 PM, Dane Trethowan wrote:
> If you have nothing to compare the speaker of the VR Stream to then 
> yep its probably very good audio however I have plenty of devices 
> around my house - roughly the same size - which I can compare the 
> Stream to and - given that - I can tell you that audio from the 
> internal speaker of the Stream is not good, is muffled and should be - 
> in my view - better than it is given other basic devices are these days.
>
> You mention listening to music through headphones etc and you're quite 
> right as you get the full benefit of better audio however I do invite 
> you - if you haven't already done so - to listen to music through the 
> internal speaker of say an iPhone 6S or a Samsung Galaxy S6 and you'll 
> soon hear a huge difference.
>
> Again no, not an ideal listening environment but its certainly a vast 
> improvement on what the Stream gives you and through a smaller speaker.
>
> I will say however that the audio from the second generation of stream 
> is quite an improvement upon that of the first generation.
>
>
>
> On 2/05/2017 9:28 AM, Tom Kaufman wrote:
>> I've never thought of the Victor Stream's audio as being 
>> "muffled"...having said this, I think of it more like the sound of a 
>> 6-transistor radio!  If you plug it into a good speaker or a good set 
>> of headphones, you do get a pretty good sound!  But no...if I'm going 
>> to listen to any music on that thing, I'd much prefer an external 
>> speaker or headphones!
>> Tom Kaufman
>>
>> -Original Message-
>> From: Pc-audio [mailto:pc-audio-boun...@pc-audio.org] On Behalf Of 
>> Dane Trethowan
>> Sent: Monday, May 01, 2017 5:34 PM
>> To: PC Audio Discussion List 
>> Subject: Re: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation
>>
>> I just shake my head though when it comes to that muffled speaker for
>> audio, all my phones do far better than what the Stream does but then
>> again audio has always been a problem with the Stream.
>>
>> The handling of multiple format files - for recording as well as
>> playback - is a welcom addition and - at the very least - the quality of
>> audio from the headphones jack seems to be quite acceptable.
>>
>>
>>
>> On 2/05/2017 2:41 AM, Evan Reese wrote:
>>> As to slow downloading of data, I have noticed with ours, and those of
>>> some friends, that it doesn't seem to have a great wi-fi transceiver
>>> in it. Even when I'm close to my router, it usually says that
>>> reception is poor.
>>> Other than that, you are right, a lot of functionality in that little
>>> package.
>>> Evan
>>>
>>> -Original Message- From: Dane Trethowan
>>> Sent: Monday, May 01, 2017 10:24 AM
>>> To: PC Audio Discussion List
>>> Subject: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation
>>>
>>> Hi!
>>>
>>> I just bought one of these units and would like to make comment on my
>>> purchase.
>>>
>>> Firstly I think that the unit does a brilliant job for what it is in
>>> most respects.
>>>
>>> The sound from the internal speaker is a little muffled however - 
>>> having
>>> already heard a VR Stream - I was already prepared for this, a bit 
>>> of an
>>> annoyance one might say so to overcome this I use a small BUniden
>>> hand-held amplified battery 

Re: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

[Hamit Campos]

Yeah that's another point. Why would you listen to music with that 1 
mono speaker anyways? I'd use ear buds at least. Just cause music is stereo.



On 5/1/2017 7:28 PM, Tom Kaufman wrote:

I've never thought of the Victor Stream's audio as being "muffled"...having 
said this, I think of it more like the sound of a 6-transistor radio!  If you plug it 
into a good speaker or a good set of headphones, you do get a pretty good sound!  But 
no...if I'm going to listen to any music on that thing, I'd much prefer an external 
speaker or headphones!
Tom Kaufman

-Original Message-
From: Pc-audio [mailto:pc-audio-boun...@pc-audio.org] On Behalf Of Dane 
Trethowan
Sent: Monday, May 01, 2017 5:34 PM
To: PC Audio Discussion List 
Subject: Re: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

I just shake my head though when it comes to that muffled speaker for
audio, all my phones do far better than what the Stream does but then
again audio has always been a problem with the Stream.

The handling of multiple format files - for recording as well as
playback - is a welcom addition and - at the very least - the quality of
audio from the headphones jack seems to be quite acceptable.



On 2/05/2017 2:41 AM, Evan Reese wrote:

As to slow downloading of data, I have noticed with ours, and those of
some friends, that it doesn't seem to have a great wi-fi transceiver
in it. Even when I'm close to my router, it usually says that
reception is poor.
Other than that, you are right, a lot of functionality in that little
package.
Evan

-Original Message- From: Dane Trethowan
Sent: Monday, May 01, 2017 10:24 AM
To: PC Audio Discussion List
Subject: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

Hi!

I just bought one of these units and would like to make comment on my
purchase.

Firstly I think that the unit does a brilliant job for what it is in
most respects.

The sound from the internal speaker is a little muffled however - having
already heard a VR Stream - I was already prepared for this, a bit of an
annoyance one might say so to overcome this I use a small BUniden
hand-held amplified battery speaker I've had for years, cost me $25
about 7 years ago, pity the Stream doesn't have Bluetooth but I guess a
product can't have everythint.

Now I don't know whether this is my unit in particular but I have
noticed that the downloading of data seems to be incredibly slow
compared to other devices I have on my network, I used the "Check for
Updates" function and - according to that - the firmware is up to date,
well at least the data does get downloaded I guess.

There's a hell of a lot of functionality packed into the VR Stream box
and a lot of this - such as the Internet Radio, podcasts and so forth -
I won't bother using - given I already have better solutions for that
sort of thing - but for those who don't the VR Stream provides a great
entry level to the world of Internet Radio and Podcasting.

Getting online with the Vision Australia library was a snap so I
downlaoded a couple of books.

Again, I have other Apps and so forth which I prefer to use myself but
the Stream is convenient for reading, no doubt about that even though I
read all my newspapers these days straight from the web site its good to
know I have a reliable backup.






---
This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software.
https://www.avast.com/antivirus

Re: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

[Hamit Campos]

Yeah the audio is kinda meh. You're right Dain. An IOS device and or 
especially a samsung device do sound better. Ah I can hear the apple 
fans now. How dare you? Did you just dare with a streight face tell me a 
samsung device sounds loads better than an IPhone? Yeah I did. Kinda off 
this topic but I noted the difference with my nephew Jonathan's note 
phone. Now the quality thing. Could thhis be cause it's for DAISY books 
for the most part? But I'm not sure about that cause Plextalk is better. 
The PTP1 sounded better to me when I saw them at the NFB national 
convention in 2013. I was also shocked that the PTP1 aka the Plextalk 
pocket looks so much like it's a mini PTR1. But then to get back to the 
topic at hand well at the time at least the streem 1 was such a 
prediction of the Strattus players. How does the Streem do connected to 
an external speaker though? To me the headphone pres of the strattus and 
the Clasic ain't that good.They too are meh. Exeptable I suppose but meh 
not hi fy.



On 5/1/2017 8:09 PM, Dane Trethowan wrote:
If you have nothing to compare the speaker of the VR Stream to then 
yep its probably very good audio however I have plenty of devices 
around my house - roughly the same size - which I can compare the 
Stream to and - given that - I can tell you that audio from the 
internal speaker of the Stream is not good, is muffled and should be - 
in my view - better than it is given other basic devices are these days.


You mention listening to music through headphones etc and you're quite 
right as you get the full benefit of better audio however I do invite 
you - if you haven't already done so - to listen to music through the 
internal speaker of say an iPhone 6S or a Samsung Galaxy S6 and you'll 
soon hear a huge difference.


Again no, not an ideal listening environment but its certainly a vast 
improvement on what the Stream gives you and through a smaller speaker.


I will say however that the audio from the second generation of stream 
is quite an improvement upon that of the first generation.




On 2/05/2017 9:28 AM, Tom Kaufman wrote:
I've never thought of the Victor Stream's audio as being 
"muffled"...having said this, I think of it more like the sound of a 
6-transistor radio!  If you plug it into a good speaker or a good set 
of headphones, you do get a pretty good sound!  But no...if I'm going 
to listen to any music on that thing, I'd much prefer an external 
speaker or headphones!

Tom Kaufman

-Original Message-
From: Pc-audio [mailto:pc-audio-boun...@pc-audio.org] On Behalf Of 
Dane Trethowan

Sent: Monday, May 01, 2017 5:34 PM
To: PC Audio Discussion List 
Subject: Re: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

I just shake my head though when it comes to that muffled speaker for
audio, all my phones do far better than what the Stream does but then
again audio has always been a problem with the Stream.

The handling of multiple format files - for recording as well as
playback - is a welcom addition and - at the very least - the quality of
audio from the headphones jack seems to be quite acceptable.



On 2/05/2017 2:41 AM, Evan Reese wrote:

As to slow downloading of data, I have noticed with ours, and those of
some friends, that it doesn't seem to have a great wi-fi transceiver
in it. Even when I'm close to my router, it usually says that
reception is poor.
Other than that, you are right, a lot of functionality in that little
package.
Evan

-Original Message- From: Dane Trethowan
Sent: Monday, May 01, 2017 10:24 AM
To: PC Audio Discussion List
Subject: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

Hi!

I just bought one of these units and would like to make comment on my
purchase.

Firstly I think that the unit does a brilliant job for what it is in
most respects.

The sound from the internal speaker is a little muffled however - 
having
already heard a VR Stream - I was already prepared for this, a bit 
of an

annoyance one might say so to overcome this I use a small BUniden
hand-held amplified battery speaker I've had for years, cost me $25
about 7 years ago, pity the Stream doesn't have Bluetooth but I guess a
product can't have everythint.

Now I don't know whether this is my unit in particular but I have
noticed that the downloading of data seems to be incredibly slow
compared to other devices I have on my network, I used the "Check for
Updates" function and - according to that - the firmware is up to date,
well at least the data does get downloaded I guess.

There's a hell of a lot of functionality packed into the VR Stream box
and a lot of this - such as the Internet Radio, podcasts and so forth -
I won't bother using - given I already have better solutions for that
sort of thing - but for those who don't the VR Stream provides a great
entry level to the world of Internet Radio and Podcasting.

Getting online with the Vision Australia library was a snap so I
downlaoded a couple of books.

Again, I have other Apps and so 

Re: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

[Hamit Campos]

Ah what did ya do with it? On the subject of getting rid of stuff, 
anyone know someware where people sell stuff like this? Like an EBay for 
Blind devices?



On 5/1/2017 8:32 PM, Dane Trethowan wrote:
Actually I've decided to rid myself of the VR Stream - even though 
I've had it for only 24 hours.


I stand by what I said about the VR Stream - a nice and convenient 
device to use - but it doesn't suit me.


I don't regret buying the Stream of course, now I have one I know 
exactly what all the fuss is about concerning this device and I really 
like the comprehensive feature set, I just don't like the quality of 
that internla speaker and the slow way the unit behaves when connected 
to the Internet.


Anyway now I know .



On 2/05/2017 9:28 AM, Tom Kaufman wrote:
I've never thought of the Victor Stream's audio as being 
"muffled"...having said this, I think of it more like the sound of a 
6-transistor radio!  If you plug it into a good speaker or a good set 
of headphones, you do get a pretty good sound!  But no...if I'm going 
to listen to any music on that thing, I'd much prefer an external 
speaker or headphones!

Tom Kaufman

-Original Message-
From: Pc-audio [mailto:pc-audio-boun...@pc-audio.org] On Behalf Of 
Dane Trethowan

Sent: Monday, May 01, 2017 5:34 PM
To: PC Audio Discussion List 
Subject: Re: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

I just shake my head though when it comes to that muffled speaker for
audio, all my phones do far better than what the Stream does but then
again audio has always been a problem with the Stream.

The handling of multiple format files - for recording as well as
playback - is a welcom addition and - at the very least - the quality of
audio from the headphones jack seems to be quite acceptable.



On 2/05/2017 2:41 AM, Evan Reese wrote:

As to slow downloading of data, I have noticed with ours, and those of
some friends, that it doesn't seem to have a great wi-fi transceiver
in it. Even when I'm close to my router, it usually says that
reception is poor.
Other than that, you are right, a lot of functionality in that little
package.
Evan

-Original Message- From: Dane Trethowan
Sent: Monday, May 01, 2017 10:24 AM
To: PC Audio Discussion List
Subject: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

Hi!

I just bought one of these units and would like to make comment on my
purchase.

Firstly I think that the unit does a brilliant job for what it is in
most respects.

The sound from the internal speaker is a little muffled however - 
having
already heard a VR Stream - I was already prepared for this, a bit 
of an

annoyance one might say so to overcome this I use a small BUniden
hand-held amplified battery speaker I've had for years, cost me $25
about 7 years ago, pity the Stream doesn't have Bluetooth but I guess a
product can't have everythint.

Now I don't know whether this is my unit in particular but I have
noticed that the downloading of data seems to be incredibly slow
compared to other devices I have on my network, I used the "Check for
Updates" function and - according to that - the firmware is up to date,
well at least the data does get downloaded I guess.

There's a hell of a lot of functionality packed into the VR Stream box
and a lot of this - such as the Internet Radio, podcasts and so forth -
I won't bother using - given I already have better solutions for that
sort of thing - but for those who don't the VR Stream provides a great
entry level to the world of Internet Radio and Podcasting.

Getting online with the Vision Australia library was a snap so I
downlaoded a couple of books.

Again, I have other Apps and so forth which I prefer to use myself but
the Stream is convenient for reading, no doubt about that even though I
read all my newspapers these days straight from the web site its 
good to

know I have a reliable backup.








---
This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software.
https://www.avast.com/antivirus

Re: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

[Dane Trethowan]

Actually I've decided to rid myself of the VR Stream - even though I've 
had it for only 24 hours.


I stand by what I said about the VR Stream - a nice and convenient 
device to use - but it doesn't suit me.


I don't regret buying the Stream of course, now I have one I know 
exactly what all the fuss is about concerning this device and I really 
like the comprehensive feature set, I just don't like the quality of 
that internla speaker and the slow way the unit behaves when connected 
to the Internet.


Anyway now I know .



On 2/05/2017 9:28 AM, Tom Kaufman wrote:

I've never thought of the Victor Stream's audio as being "muffled"...having 
said this, I think of it more like the sound of a 6-transistor radio!  If you plug it 
into a good speaker or a good set of headphones, you do get a pretty good sound!  But 
no...if I'm going to listen to any music on that thing, I'd much prefer an external 
speaker or headphones!
Tom Kaufman

-Original Message-
From: Pc-audio [mailto:pc-audio-boun...@pc-audio.org] On Behalf Of Dane 
Trethowan
Sent: Monday, May 01, 2017 5:34 PM
To: PC Audio Discussion List 
Subject: Re: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

I just shake my head though when it comes to that muffled speaker for
audio, all my phones do far better than what the Stream does but then
again audio has always been a problem with the Stream.

The handling of multiple format files - for recording as well as
playback - is a welcom addition and - at the very least - the quality of
audio from the headphones jack seems to be quite acceptable.



On 2/05/2017 2:41 AM, Evan Reese wrote:

As to slow downloading of data, I have noticed with ours, and those of
some friends, that it doesn't seem to have a great wi-fi transceiver
in it. Even when I'm close to my router, it usually says that
reception is poor.
Other than that, you are right, a lot of functionality in that little
package.
Evan

-Original Message- From: Dane Trethowan
Sent: Monday, May 01, 2017 10:24 AM
To: PC Audio Discussion List
Subject: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

Hi!

I just bought one of these units and would like to make comment on my
purchase.

Firstly I think that the unit does a brilliant job for what it is in
most respects.

The sound from the internal speaker is a little muffled however - having
already heard a VR Stream - I was already prepared for this, a bit of an
annoyance one might say so to overcome this I use a small BUniden
hand-held amplified battery speaker I've had for years, cost me $25
about 7 years ago, pity the Stream doesn't have Bluetooth but I guess a
product can't have everythint.

Now I don't know whether this is my unit in particular but I have
noticed that the downloading of data seems to be incredibly slow
compared to other devices I have on my network, I used the "Check for
Updates" function and - according to that - the firmware is up to date,
well at least the data does get downloaded I guess.

There's a hell of a lot of functionality packed into the VR Stream box
and a lot of this - such as the Internet Radio, podcasts and so forth -
I won't bother using - given I already have better solutions for that
sort of thing - but for those who don't the VR Stream provides a great
entry level to the world of Internet Radio and Podcasting.

Getting online with the Vision Australia library was a snap so I
downlaoded a couple of books.

Again, I have other Apps and so forth which I prefer to use myself but
the Stream is convenient for reading, no doubt about that even though I
read all my newspapers these days straight from the web site its good to
know I have a reliable backup.





--

**
"Live each day as if you were goiing to die tomorrow, learn each day as if you were 
going to live forever"

Re: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

[Dane Trethowan]

If you have nothing to compare the speaker of the VR Stream to then yep 
its probably very good audio however I have plenty of devices around my 
house - roughly the same size - which I can compare the Stream to and - 
given that - I can tell you that audio from the internal speaker of the 
Stream is not good, is muffled and should be - in my view - better than 
it is given other basic devices are these days.


You mention listening to music through headphones etc and you're quite 
right as you get the full benefit of better audio however I do invite 
you - if you haven't already done so - to listen to music through the 
internal speaker of say an iPhone 6S or a Samsung Galaxy S6 and you'll 
soon hear a huge difference.


Again no, not an ideal listening environment but its certainly a vast 
improvement on what the Stream gives you and through a smaller speaker.


I will say however that the audio from the second generation of stream 
is quite an improvement upon that of the first generation.




On 2/05/2017 9:28 AM, Tom Kaufman wrote:

I've never thought of the Victor Stream's audio as being "muffled"...having 
said this, I think of it more like the sound of a 6-transistor radio!  If you plug it 
into a good speaker or a good set of headphones, you do get a pretty good sound!  But 
no...if I'm going to listen to any music on that thing, I'd much prefer an external 
speaker or headphones!
Tom Kaufman

-Original Message-
From: Pc-audio [mailto:pc-audio-boun...@pc-audio.org] On Behalf Of Dane 
Trethowan
Sent: Monday, May 01, 2017 5:34 PM
To: PC Audio Discussion List 
Subject: Re: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

I just shake my head though when it comes to that muffled speaker for
audio, all my phones do far better than what the Stream does but then
again audio has always been a problem with the Stream.

The handling of multiple format files - for recording as well as
playback - is a welcom addition and - at the very least - the quality of
audio from the headphones jack seems to be quite acceptable.



On 2/05/2017 2:41 AM, Evan Reese wrote:

As to slow downloading of data, I have noticed with ours, and those of
some friends, that it doesn't seem to have a great wi-fi transceiver
in it. Even when I'm close to my router, it usually says that
reception is poor.
Other than that, you are right, a lot of functionality in that little
package.
Evan

-Original Message- From: Dane Trethowan
Sent: Monday, May 01, 2017 10:24 AM
To: PC Audio Discussion List
Subject: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

Hi!

I just bought one of these units and would like to make comment on my
purchase.

Firstly I think that the unit does a brilliant job for what it is in
most respects.

The sound from the internal speaker is a little muffled however - having
already heard a VR Stream - I was already prepared for this, a bit of an
annoyance one might say so to overcome this I use a small BUniden
hand-held amplified battery speaker I've had for years, cost me $25
about 7 years ago, pity the Stream doesn't have Bluetooth but I guess a
product can't have everythint.

Now I don't know whether this is my unit in particular but I have
noticed that the downloading of data seems to be incredibly slow
compared to other devices I have on my network, I used the "Check for
Updates" function and - according to that - the firmware is up to date,
well at least the data does get downloaded I guess.

There's a hell of a lot of functionality packed into the VR Stream box
and a lot of this - such as the Internet Radio, podcasts and so forth -
I won't bother using - given I already have better solutions for that
sort of thing - but for those who don't the VR Stream provides a great
entry level to the world of Internet Radio and Podcasting.

Getting online with the Vision Australia library was a snap so I
downlaoded a couple of books.

Again, I have other Apps and so forth which I prefer to use myself but
the Stream is convenient for reading, no doubt about that even though I
read all my newspapers these days straight from the web site its good to
know I have a reliable backup.





--

**
"Live each day as if you were goiing to die tomorrow, learn each day as if you were 
going to live forever"

RE: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

[Tom Kaufman]

I've never thought of the Victor Stream's audio as being "muffled"...having 
said this, I think of it more like the sound of a 6-transistor radio!  If you 
plug it into a good speaker or a good set of headphones, you do get a pretty 
good sound!  But no...if I'm going to listen to any music on that thing, I'd 
much prefer an external speaker or headphones!
Tom Kaufman

-Original Message-
From: Pc-audio [mailto:pc-audio-boun...@pc-audio.org] On Behalf Of Dane 
Trethowan
Sent: Monday, May 01, 2017 5:34 PM
To: PC Audio Discussion List 
Subject: Re: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

I just shake my head though when it comes to that muffled speaker for 
audio, all my phones do far better than what the Stream does but then 
again audio has always been a problem with the Stream.

The handling of multiple format files - for recording as well as 
playback - is a welcom addition and - at the very least - the quality of 
audio from the headphones jack seems to be quite acceptable.



On 2/05/2017 2:41 AM, Evan Reese wrote:
> As to slow downloading of data, I have noticed with ours, and those of 
> some friends, that it doesn't seem to have a great wi-fi transceiver 
> in it. Even when I'm close to my router, it usually says that 
> reception is poor.
> Other than that, you are right, a lot of functionality in that little 
> package.
> Evan
>
> -Original Message- From: Dane Trethowan
> Sent: Monday, May 01, 2017 10:24 AM
> To: PC Audio Discussion List
> Subject: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation
>
> Hi!
>
> I just bought one of these units and would like to make comment on my
> purchase.
>
> Firstly I think that the unit does a brilliant job for what it is in
> most respects.
>
> The sound from the internal speaker is a little muffled however - having
> already heard a VR Stream - I was already prepared for this, a bit of an
> annoyance one might say so to overcome this I use a small BUniden
> hand-held amplified battery speaker I've had for years, cost me $25
> about 7 years ago, pity the Stream doesn't have Bluetooth but I guess a
> product can't have everythint.
>
> Now I don't know whether this is my unit in particular but I have
> noticed that the downloading of data seems to be incredibly slow
> compared to other devices I have on my network, I used the "Check for
> Updates" function and - according to that - the firmware is up to date,
> well at least the data does get downloaded I guess.
>
> There's a hell of a lot of functionality packed into the VR Stream box
> and a lot of this - such as the Internet Radio, podcasts and so forth -
> I won't bother using - given I already have better solutions for that
> sort of thing - but for those who don't the VR Stream provides a great
> entry level to the world of Internet Radio and Podcasting.
>
> Getting online with the Vision Australia library was a snap so I
> downlaoded a couple of books.
>
> Again, I have other Apps and so forth which I prefer to use myself but
> the Stream is convenient for reading, no doubt about that even though I
> read all my newspapers these days straight from the web site its good to
> know I have a reliable backup.
>
>
>

-- 

**
"Live each day as if you were goiing to die tomorrow, learn each day as if you 
were going to live forever"

Victor Reader Stream

[Dane Trethowan]

Hi!

I've replaced the subject line as it appears to have been stripped from 
your eMail.


Yes, I know you can purchase a Bluetooth dongle and thanks for pointing 
that out but in these days of technology? Well you shouldn't have to be 
buying anything extra like that, tell me of a mobile phone or music 
player today where one has to buy a Bluetooth dongle? At this rate we 
may as well have manufacturers stop making Bluetooth headphones and just 
making Bluetooth dongles.




On 2/05/2017 6:08 AM, John Heath via Pc-audio wrote:

--

**
"Live each day as if you were goiing to die tomorrow, learn each day as if you were 
going to live forever"

Re: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

[Dane Trethowan]

Couple of points here.

If you don't have devices working simultaneously on your network then 
its hard to draw comparisons with the Stream, I mean if its the only 
device you have then you're probably over the moon that the Stream can 
download anything at all!


As for your super fast network? Well I sincerely hope you didn't just 
purchase this for the benefit of your Victor Reader Stream because - if 
you did - then you certainly will require a reality check ., I 
have download speeds here of around 11.5MB per second and there's 
absolutely no way the Stream would even take advantage of 10% of that 
bandwidth capacity.




On 2/05/2017 2:59 AM, Chris Skarstad wrote:
I'll be purchasing one of these very soon, so will be able to report 
on it when i get it.  I have a super-fast connection with Verizon 
Fios, so downloading books manually and transfering them to the player 
won't be an issue if the download speeds on the player are as slow as 
some of you guys say they are.  I'm kind of shocked that this is just 
now coming up, as the new generation stream has been out for some time 
now.  I thought this would've been mentioned sooner, but maybe I 
skipped over it as I wasn't in the market for one at that time, i'm 
not sure. I'll certainly let you guys know my experiences.







On 5/1/2017 12:41 PM, Evan Reese wrote:
As to slow downloading of data, I have noticed with ours, and those 
of some friends, that it doesn't seem to have a great wi-fi 
transceiver in it. Even when I'm close to my router, it usually says 
that reception is poor.
Other than that, you are right, a lot of functionality in that little 
package.

Evan

-Original Message- From: Dane Trethowan
Sent: Monday, May 01, 2017 10:24 AM
To: PC Audio Discussion List
Subject: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

Hi!

I just bought one of these units and would like to make comment on my
purchase.

Firstly I think that the unit does a brilliant job for what it is in
most respects.

The sound from the internal speaker is a little muffled however - having
already heard a VR Stream - I was already prepared for this, a bit of an
annoyance one might say so to overcome this I use a small BUniden
hand-held amplified battery speaker I've had for years, cost me $25
about 7 years ago, pity the Stream doesn't have Bluetooth but I guess a
product can't have everythint.

Now I don't know whether this is my unit in particular but I have
noticed that the downloading of data seems to be incredibly slow
compared to other devices I have on my network, I used the "Check for
Updates" function and - according to that - the firmware is up to date,
well at least the data does get downloaded I guess.

There's a hell of a lot of functionality packed into the VR Stream box
and a lot of this - such as the Internet Radio, podcasts and so forth -
I won't bother using - given I already have better solutions for that
sort of thing - but for those who don't the VR Stream provides a great
entry level to the world of Internet Radio and Podcasting.

Getting online with the Vision Australia library was a snap so I
downlaoded a couple of books.

Again, I have other Apps and so forth which I prefer to use myself but
the Stream is convenient for reading, no doubt about that even though I
read all my newspapers these days straight from the web site its good to
know I have a reliable backup.








--

**
"Live each day as if you were goiing to die tomorrow, learn each day as if you were 
going to live forever"

Re: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

[Dane Trethowan]

I just shake my head though when it comes to that muffled speaker for 
audio, all my phones do far better than what the Stream does but then 
again audio has always been a problem with the Stream.


The handling of multiple format files - for recording as well as 
playback - is a welcom addition and - at the very least - the quality of 
audio from the headphones jack seems to be quite acceptable.




On 2/05/2017 2:41 AM, Evan Reese wrote:
As to slow downloading of data, I have noticed with ours, and those of 
some friends, that it doesn't seem to have a great wi-fi transceiver 
in it. Even when I'm close to my router, it usually says that 
reception is poor.
Other than that, you are right, a lot of functionality in that little 
package.

Evan

-Original Message- From: Dane Trethowan
Sent: Monday, May 01, 2017 10:24 AM
To: PC Audio Discussion List
Subject: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

Hi!

I just bought one of these units and would like to make comment on my
purchase.

Firstly I think that the unit does a brilliant job for what it is in
most respects.

The sound from the internal speaker is a little muffled however - having
already heard a VR Stream - I was already prepared for this, a bit of an
annoyance one might say so to overcome this I use a small BUniden
hand-held amplified battery speaker I've had for years, cost me $25
about 7 years ago, pity the Stream doesn't have Bluetooth but I guess a
product can't have everythint.

Now I don't know whether this is my unit in particular but I have
noticed that the downloading of data seems to be incredibly slow
compared to other devices I have on my network, I used the "Check for
Updates" function and - according to that - the firmware is up to date,
well at least the data does get downloaded I guess.

There's a hell of a lot of functionality packed into the VR Stream box
and a lot of this - such as the Internet Radio, podcasts and so forth -
I won't bother using - given I already have better solutions for that
sort of thing - but for those who don't the VR Stream provides a great
entry level to the world of Internet Radio and Podcasting.

Getting online with the Vision Australia library was a snap so I
downlaoded a couple of books.

Again, I have other Apps and so forth which I prefer to use myself but
the Stream is convenient for reading, no doubt about that even though I
read all my newspapers these days straight from the web site its good to
know I have a reliable backup.





--

**
"Live each day as if you were goiing to die tomorrow, learn each day as if you were 
going to live forever"

SV: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

[Brian Olesen]

Hi,
Agree.

-Oprindelig meddelelse-
Fra: Pc-audio [mailto:pc-audio-boun...@pc-audio.org] På vegne af Peter Scanlon
Sendt: 1. maj 2017 20:35
Til: 'PC Audio Discussion List' 
Emne: RE: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

I love my Victor Stream. 
The best thing about it is how easy it is to listen to and locate internet 
radio stations.


-Original Message-
From: Pc-audio [mailto:pc-audio-boun...@pc-audio.org] On Behalf Of Hamit Campos
Sent: Tuesday, 2 May 2017 3:07 AM
To: PC Audio Discussion List 
Subject: Re: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

Yeah I've not heard this before either. But perhaps other people either didn't 
have the issue or they just axepted it.


On 5/1/2017 12:59 PM, Chris Skarstad wrote:
> I'll be purchasing one of these very soon, so will be able to report 
> on it when i get it.  I have a super-fast connection with Verizon 
> Fios, so downloading books manually and transfering them to the player 
> won't be an issue if the download speeds on the player are as slow as 
> some of you guys say they are.  I'm kind of shocked that this is just 
> now coming up, as the new generation stream has been out for some time 
> now.  I thought this would've been mentioned sooner, but maybe I 
> skipped over it as I wasn't in the market for one at that time, i'm 
> not sure. I'll certainly let you guys know my experiences.
>
>
>
>
>
>
> On 5/1/2017 12:41 PM, Evan Reese wrote:
>> As to slow downloading of data, I have noticed with ours, and those 
>> of some friends, that it doesn't seem to have a great wi-fi 
>> transceiver in it. Even when I'm close to my router, it usually says 
>> that reception is poor.
>> Other than that, you are right, a lot of functionality in that little 
>> package.
>> Evan
>>
>> -Original Message- From: Dane Trethowan
>> Sent: Monday, May 01, 2017 10:24 AM
>> To: PC Audio Discussion List
>> Subject: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation
>>
>> Hi!
>>
>> I just bought one of these units and would like to make comment on my
>> purchase.
>>
>> Firstly I think that the unit does a brilliant job for what it is in
>> most respects.
>>
>> The sound from the internal speaker is a little muffled however - having
>> already heard a VR Stream - I was already prepared for this, a bit of an
>> annoyance one might say so to overcome this I use a small BUniden
>> hand-held amplified battery speaker I've had for years, cost me $25
>> about 7 years ago, pity the Stream doesn't have Bluetooth but I guess a
>> product can't have everythint.
>>
>> Now I don't know whether this is my unit in particular but I have
>> noticed that the downloading of data seems to be incredibly slow
>> compared to other devices I have on my network, I used the "Check for
>> Updates" function and - according to that - the firmware is up to date,
>> well at least the data does get downloaded I guess.
>>
>> There's a hell of a lot of functionality packed into the VR Stream box
>> and a lot of this - such as the Internet Radio, podcasts and so forth -
>> I won't bother using - given I already have better solutions for that
>> sort of thing - but for those who don't the VR Stream provides a great
>> entry level to the world of Internet Radio and Podcasting.
>>
>> Getting online with the Vision Australia library was a snap so I
>> downlaoded a couple of books.
>>
>> Again, I have other Apps and so forth which I prefer to use myself but
>> the Stream is convenient for reading, no doubt about that even though I
>> read all my newspapers these days straight from the web site its good to
>> know I have a reliable backup.
>>
>>
>>
>
>


---
This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software.
https://www.avast.com/antivirus

[no subject]

[John Heath via Pc-audio]

--- Begin Message ---
Hi Dane you can buy a dongle which gives you bluetooth capability. I use 
mine with aftershokz


-Original Message- 
From: Dane Trethowan

Sent: Monday, May 01, 2017 10:24 AM
To: PC Audio Discussion List
Subject: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

Hi!

I just bought one of these units and would like to make comment on my
purchase.

Firstly I think that the unit does a brilliant job for what it is in
most respects.

The sound from the internal speaker is a little muffled however - having
already heard a VR Stream - I was already prepared for this, a bit of an
annoyance one might say so to overcome this I use a small BUniden
hand-held amplified battery speaker I've had for years, cost me $25
about 7 years ago, pity the Stream doesn't have Bluetooth but I guess a
product can't have everythint.

Now I don't know whether this is my unit in particular but I have
noticed that the downloading of data seems to be incredibly slow
compared to other devices I have on my network, I used the "Check for
Updates" function and - according to that - the firmware is up to date,
well at least the data does get downloaded I guess.

There's a hell of a lot of functionality packed into the VR Stream box
and a lot of this - such as the Internet Radio, podcasts and so forth -
I won't bother using - given I already have better solutions for that
sort of thing - but for those who don't the VR Stream provides a great
entry level to the world of Internet Radio and Podcasting.

Getting online with the Vision Australia library was a snap so I
downlaoded a couple of books.

Again, I have other Apps and so forth which I prefer to use myself but
the Stream is convenient for reading, no doubt about that even though I
read all my newspapers these days straight from the web site its good to
know I have a reliable backup.



--

**
"Live each day as if you were goiing to die tomorrow, learn each day as if 
you were going to live forever"



--- End Message ---

RE: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

[Peter Scanlon]

I love my Victor Stream. 
The best thing about it is how easy it is to listen to and locate internet 
radio stations.


-Original Message-
From: Pc-audio [mailto:pc-audio-boun...@pc-audio.org] On Behalf Of Hamit Campos
Sent: Tuesday, 2 May 2017 3:07 AM
To: PC Audio Discussion List 
Subject: Re: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

Yeah I've not heard this before either. But perhaps other people either didn't 
have the issue or they just axepted it.


On 5/1/2017 12:59 PM, Chris Skarstad wrote:
> I'll be purchasing one of these very soon, so will be able to report 
> on it when i get it.  I have a super-fast connection with Verizon 
> Fios, so downloading books manually and transfering them to the player 
> won't be an issue if the download speeds on the player are as slow as 
> some of you guys say they are.  I'm kind of shocked that this is just 
> now coming up, as the new generation stream has been out for some time 
> now.  I thought this would've been mentioned sooner, but maybe I 
> skipped over it as I wasn't in the market for one at that time, i'm 
> not sure. I'll certainly let you guys know my experiences.
>
>
>
>
>
>
> On 5/1/2017 12:41 PM, Evan Reese wrote:
>> As to slow downloading of data, I have noticed with ours, and those 
>> of some friends, that it doesn't seem to have a great wi-fi 
>> transceiver in it. Even when I'm close to my router, it usually says 
>> that reception is poor.
>> Other than that, you are right, a lot of functionality in that little 
>> package.
>> Evan
>>
>> -Original Message- From: Dane Trethowan
>> Sent: Monday, May 01, 2017 10:24 AM
>> To: PC Audio Discussion List
>> Subject: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation
>>
>> Hi!
>>
>> I just bought one of these units and would like to make comment on my
>> purchase.
>>
>> Firstly I think that the unit does a brilliant job for what it is in
>> most respects.
>>
>> The sound from the internal speaker is a little muffled however - having
>> already heard a VR Stream - I was already prepared for this, a bit of an
>> annoyance one might say so to overcome this I use a small BUniden
>> hand-held amplified battery speaker I've had for years, cost me $25
>> about 7 years ago, pity the Stream doesn't have Bluetooth but I guess a
>> product can't have everythint.
>>
>> Now I don't know whether this is my unit in particular but I have
>> noticed that the downloading of data seems to be incredibly slow
>> compared to other devices I have on my network, I used the "Check for
>> Updates" function and - according to that - the firmware is up to date,
>> well at least the data does get downloaded I guess.
>>
>> There's a hell of a lot of functionality packed into the VR Stream box
>> and a lot of this - such as the Internet Radio, podcasts and so forth -
>> I won't bother using - given I already have better solutions for that
>> sort of thing - but for those who don't the VR Stream provides a great
>> entry level to the world of Internet Radio and Podcasting.
>>
>> Getting online with the Vision Australia library was a snap so I
>> downlaoded a couple of books.
>>
>> Again, I have other Apps and so forth which I prefer to use myself but
>> the Stream is convenient for reading, no doubt about that even though I
>> read all my newspapers these days straight from the web site its good to
>> know I have a reliable backup.
>>
>>
>>
>
>


---
This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software.
https://www.avast.com/antivirus

Re: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

[Hamit Campos]

Yeah I've not heard this before either. But perhaps other people either 
didn't have the issue or they just axepted it.



On 5/1/2017 12:59 PM, Chris Skarstad wrote:
I'll be purchasing one of these very soon, so will be able to report 
on it when i get it.  I have a super-fast connection with Verizon 
Fios, so downloading books manually and transfering them to the player 
won't be an issue if the download speeds on the player are as slow as 
some of you guys say they are.  I'm kind of shocked that this is just 
now coming up, as the new generation stream has been out for some time 
now.  I thought this would've been mentioned sooner, but maybe I 
skipped over it as I wasn't in the market for one at that time, i'm 
not sure. I'll certainly let you guys know my experiences.







On 5/1/2017 12:41 PM, Evan Reese wrote:
As to slow downloading of data, I have noticed with ours, and those 
of some friends, that it doesn't seem to have a great wi-fi 
transceiver in it. Even when I'm close to my router, it usually says 
that reception is poor.
Other than that, you are right, a lot of functionality in that little 
package.

Evan

-Original Message- From: Dane Trethowan
Sent: Monday, May 01, 2017 10:24 AM
To: PC Audio Discussion List
Subject: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

Hi!

I just bought one of these units and would like to make comment on my
purchase.

Firstly I think that the unit does a brilliant job for what it is in
most respects.

The sound from the internal speaker is a little muffled however - having
already heard a VR Stream - I was already prepared for this, a bit of an
annoyance one might say so to overcome this I use a small BUniden
hand-held amplified battery speaker I've had for years, cost me $25
about 7 years ago, pity the Stream doesn't have Bluetooth but I guess a
product can't have everythint.

Now I don't know whether this is my unit in particular but I have
noticed that the downloading of data seems to be incredibly slow
compared to other devices I have on my network, I used the "Check for
Updates" function and - according to that - the firmware is up to date,
well at least the data does get downloaded I guess.

There's a hell of a lot of functionality packed into the VR Stream box
and a lot of this - such as the Internet Radio, podcasts and so forth -
I won't bother using - given I already have better solutions for that
sort of thing - but for those who don't the VR Stream provides a great
entry level to the world of Internet Radio and Podcasting.

Getting online with the Vision Australia library was a snap so I
downlaoded a couple of books.

Again, I have other Apps and so forth which I prefer to use myself but
the Stream is convenient for reading, no doubt about that even though I
read all my newspapers these days straight from the web site its good to
know I have a reliable backup.









---
This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software.
https://www.avast.com/antivirus

Re: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

[Chris Skarstad]

I'll be purchasing one of these very soon, so will be able to report on 
it when i get it.  I have a super-fast connection with Verizon Fios, so 
downloading books manually and transfering them to the player won't be 
an issue if the download speeds on the player are as slow as some of you 
guys say they are.  I'm kind of shocked that this is just now coming up, 
as the new generation stream has been out for some time now.  I thought 
this would've been mentioned sooner, but maybe I skipped over it as I 
wasn't in the market for one at that time, i'm not sure.  I'll certainly 
let you guys know my experiences.







On 5/1/2017 12:41 PM, Evan Reese wrote:
As to slow downloading of data, I have noticed with ours, and those of 
some friends, that it doesn't seem to have a great wi-fi transceiver 
in it. Even when I'm close to my router, it usually says that 
reception is poor.
Other than that, you are right, a lot of functionality in that little 
package.

Evan

-Original Message- From: Dane Trethowan
Sent: Monday, May 01, 2017 10:24 AM
To: PC Audio Discussion List
Subject: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

Hi!

I just bought one of these units and would like to make comment on my
purchase.

Firstly I think that the unit does a brilliant job for what it is in
most respects.

The sound from the internal speaker is a little muffled however - having
already heard a VR Stream - I was already prepared for this, a bit of an
annoyance one might say so to overcome this I use a small BUniden
hand-held amplified battery speaker I've had for years, cost me $25
about 7 years ago, pity the Stream doesn't have Bluetooth but I guess a
product can't have everythint.

Now I don't know whether this is my unit in particular but I have
noticed that the downloading of data seems to be incredibly slow
compared to other devices I have on my network, I used the "Check for
Updates" function and - according to that - the firmware is up to date,
well at least the data does get downloaded I guess.

There's a hell of a lot of functionality packed into the VR Stream box
and a lot of this - such as the Internet Radio, podcasts and so forth -
I won't bother using - given I already have better solutions for that
sort of thing - but for those who don't the VR Stream provides a great
entry level to the world of Internet Radio and Podcasting.

Getting online with the Vision Australia library was a snap so I
downlaoded a couple of books.

Again, I have other Apps and so forth which I prefer to use myself but
the Stream is convenient for reading, no doubt about that even though I
read all my newspapers these days straight from the web site its good to
know I have a reliable backup.

Re: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

[Evan Reese]

As to slow downloading of data, I have noticed with ours, and those of some 
friends, that it doesn't seem to have a great wi-fi transceiver in it. Even 
when I'm close to my router, it usually says that reception is poor.
Other than that, you are right, a lot of functionality in that little 
package.

Evan

-Original Message- 
From: Dane Trethowan

Sent: Monday, May 01, 2017 10:24 AM
To: PC Audio Discussion List
Subject: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

Hi!

I just bought one of these units and would like to make comment on my
purchase.

Firstly I think that the unit does a brilliant job for what it is in
most respects.

The sound from the internal speaker is a little muffled however - having
already heard a VR Stream - I was already prepared for this, a bit of an
annoyance one might say so to overcome this I use a small BUniden
hand-held amplified battery speaker I've had for years, cost me $25
about 7 years ago, pity the Stream doesn't have Bluetooth but I guess a
product can't have everythint.

Now I don't know whether this is my unit in particular but I have
noticed that the downloading of data seems to be incredibly slow
compared to other devices I have on my network, I used the "Check for
Updates" function and - according to that - the firmware is up to date,
well at least the data does get downloaded I guess.

There's a hell of a lot of functionality packed into the VR Stream box
and a lot of this - such as the Internet Radio, podcasts and so forth -
I won't bother using - given I already have better solutions for that
sort of thing - but for those who don't the VR Stream provides a great
entry level to the world of Internet Radio and Podcasting.

Getting online with the Vision Australia library was a snap so I
downlaoded a couple of books.

Again, I have other Apps and so forth which I prefer to use myself but
the Stream is convenient for reading, no doubt about that even though I
read all my newspapers these days straight from the web site its good to
know I have a reliable backup.



--

**
"Live each day as if you were goiing to die tomorrow, learn each day as if 
you were going to live forever"

Re: SV: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

[Hamit Campos]

What unets are these you say have better WIFI then the Streem 2?


On 5/1/2017 11:24 AM, Brian Olesen wrote:

Hi,
Oh no it doesnt.
I bet they don't wanna host the intire world's streaming load. Smile
And some libraries have a super bad transfer speed. Like the Danish one. Grin
But to be honest this baby now is quite some years old, so what can we expect?
But it reports bad connection quality, where all other units shows lots of 
signal.

Best regards
Brian

-Oprindelig meddelelse-
Fra: Pc-audio [mailto:pc-audio-boun...@pc-audio.org] På vegne af Gary Schindler
Sendt: 1. maj 2017 16:44
Til: PC Audio Discussion List 
Emne: Re: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

In addition to what you said about the slow download speed of the Victor stream 
second generation, I feel that the chip for the wireless receiver could be more 
sensitive. Another thing I believe is that the internet streams seem to go 
through a server controlled by Humanware for the most part. If there is a 
problem for some reason with there server, the machine locks up even though you 
are connected to your router. that being said, it seems to be the best all 
around device in it's class for the money!


-Original Message-
From: Dane Trethowan
Sent: Monday, May 01, 2017 10:24 AM
To: PC Audio Discussion List
Subject: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

Hi!

I just bought one of these units and would like to make comment on my purchase.

Firstly I think that the unit does a brilliant job for what it is in most 
respects.

The sound from the internal speaker is a little muffled however - having 
already heard a VR Stream - I was already prepared for this, a bit of an 
annoyance one might say so to overcome this I use a small BUniden hand-held 
amplified battery speaker I've had for years, cost me $25 about 7 years ago, 
pity the Stream doesn't have Bluetooth but I guess a product can't have 
everythint.

Now I don't know whether this is my unit in particular but I have noticed that the 
downloading of data seems to be incredibly slow compared to other devices I have on my 
network, I used the "Check for Updates" function and - according to that - the 
firmware is up to date, well at least the data does get downloaded I guess.

There's a hell of a lot of functionality packed into the VR Stream box and a 
lot of this - such as the Internet Radio, podcasts and so forth - I won't 
bother using - given I already have better solutions for that sort of thing - 
but for those who don't the VR Stream provides a great entry level to the world 
of Internet Radio and Podcasting.

Getting online with the Vision Australia library was a snap so I downlaoded a 
couple of books.

Again, I have other Apps and so forth which I prefer to use myself but the 
Stream is convenient for reading, no doubt about that even though I read all my 
newspapers these days straight from the web site its good to know I have a 
reliable backup.






---
This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software.
https://www.avast.com/antivirus

Re: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

[Hamit Campos]

That is the yick thing for me with Blind devices. They don't make them 
truely powerfull. Well I'm more a plextalk guy then Victor. So I've 
always had bones with them. In 06 when they made the PTR2 they didn't do 
loads of things that would've made it epic. For starters the USB 1.1 
thingy. Dude USB 2 was a thing in 2006 was it not? Also the CF card 
thing. Dude really only 6 GB? Get rid of that limit homies. Now as I was 
bairly getting into the geeky stuff about computers I don't know how hi 
Compact Flash cards went then. Believe it or not, the PTR2 is still sold 
to this day just like that. Not sure how the Pocket is as I've not 
messed with it. I do have a Strattus 12M as we were origenally talking 
Victors. Meh it's what it is. I will giv it this though it can play the 
FS JAWS DVDs. Oh and Victors also play the ITunes N4A format. Which is 
another bone to pick with Plextalk. I like them more. Plextalks sound 
clearer to me. The speakers always seemed to have better frequency 
responce. Sure now they are kinda ick to me now that I've been spoiled 
with Bose quality. lol



On 5/1/2017 11:25 AM, Aidan wrote:

Yes but that shouldn't be an excuse. These companies must wake up. I
no of a manufacture who does allot better in hardware and wich players
wifi is much stronger. Soon it will be able to record internet radio
and its much cheaper. Also humanware is very slow to update, fix bugs,
and new features. All new promts are now spoken by heather, though
they claim the stream is one of the players with human speech, well
these days they may just as well remove the human voice altogether,
since they don't seem to want to change these promts to speak with it
any longer.

On 01/05/2017, Dane Trethowan  wrote:

Ah! well you've probably hit the nail right on the head when it comes to
the download speed if everything goes through the Humanware server.

Yep, the Wireless chip seems a little outdated but after all! we're
talking all things Humanware and for the blind here aren't we .



On 2/05/2017 12:43 AM, Gary Schindler wrote:

In addition to what you said about the slow download speed of the
Victor stream second generation, I feel that the chip for the wireless
receiver could be more sensitive. Another thing I believe is that the
internet streams seem to go through a server controlled by Humanware
for the most part. If there is a problem for some reason with there
server, the machine locks up even though you are connected to your
router. that being said, it seems to be the best all around device in
it's class for the money!


-Original Message- From: Dane Trethowan
Sent: Monday, May 01, 2017 10:24 AM
To: PC Audio Discussion List
Subject: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

Hi!

I just bought one of these units and would like to make comment on my
purchase.

Firstly I think that the unit does a brilliant job for what it is in
most respects.

The sound from the internal speaker is a little muffled however - having
already heard a VR Stream - I was already prepared for this, a bit of an
annoyance one might say so to overcome this I use a small BUniden
hand-held amplified battery speaker I've had for years, cost me $25
about 7 years ago, pity the Stream doesn't have Bluetooth but I guess a
product can't have everythint.

Now I don't know whether this is my unit in particular but I have
noticed that the downloading of data seems to be incredibly slow
compared to other devices I have on my network, I used the "Check for
Updates" function and - according to that - the firmware is up to date,
well at least the data does get downloaded I guess.

There's a hell of a lot of functionality packed into the VR Stream box
and a lot of this - such as the Internet Radio, podcasts and so forth -
I won't bother using - given I already have better solutions for that
sort of thing - but for those who don't the VR Stream provides a great
entry level to the world of Internet Radio and Podcasting.

Getting online with the Vision Australia library was a snap so I
downlaoded a couple of books.

Again, I have other Apps and so forth which I prefer to use myself but
the Stream is convenient for reading, no doubt about that even though I
read all my newspapers these days straight from the web site its good to
know I have a reliable backup.




--

**
"Live each day as if you were goiing to die tomorrow, learn each day as if
you were going to live forever"








---
This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software.
https://www.avast.com/antivirus

SV: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

[Brian Olesen]

Hi,
Oh no it doesnt.
I bet they don't wanna host the intire world's streaming load. Smile
And some libraries have a super bad transfer speed. Like the Danish one. Grin
But to be honest this baby now is quite some years old, so what can we expect?
But it reports bad connection quality, where all other units shows lots of 
signal.

Best regards
Brian

-Oprindelig meddelelse-
Fra: Pc-audio [mailto:pc-audio-boun...@pc-audio.org] På vegne af Gary Schindler
Sendt: 1. maj 2017 16:44
Til: PC Audio Discussion List 
Emne: Re: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

In addition to what you said about the slow download speed of the Victor stream 
second generation, I feel that the chip for the wireless receiver could be more 
sensitive. Another thing I believe is that the internet streams seem to go 
through a server controlled by Humanware for the most part. If there is a 
problem for some reason with there server, the machine locks up even though you 
are connected to your router. that being said, it seems to be the best all 
around device in it's class for the money!


-Original Message-
From: Dane Trethowan
Sent: Monday, May 01, 2017 10:24 AM
To: PC Audio Discussion List
Subject: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

Hi!

I just bought one of these units and would like to make comment on my purchase.

Firstly I think that the unit does a brilliant job for what it is in most 
respects.

The sound from the internal speaker is a little muffled however - having 
already heard a VR Stream - I was already prepared for this, a bit of an 
annoyance one might say so to overcome this I use a small BUniden hand-held 
amplified battery speaker I've had for years, cost me $25 about 7 years ago, 
pity the Stream doesn't have Bluetooth but I guess a product can't have 
everythint.

Now I don't know whether this is my unit in particular but I have noticed that 
the downloading of data seems to be incredibly slow compared to other devices I 
have on my network, I used the "Check for Updates" function and - according to 
that - the firmware is up to date, well at least the data does get downloaded I 
guess.

There's a hell of a lot of functionality packed into the VR Stream box and a 
lot of this - such as the Internet Radio, podcasts and so forth - I won't 
bother using - given I already have better solutions for that sort of thing - 
but for those who don't the VR Stream provides a great entry level to the world 
of Internet Radio and Podcasting.

Getting online with the Vision Australia library was a snap so I downlaoded a 
couple of books.

Again, I have other Apps and so forth which I prefer to use myself but the 
Stream is convenient for reading, no doubt about that even though I read all my 
newspapers these days straight from the web site its good to know I have a 
reliable backup.



-- 

**
"Live each day as if you were goiing to die tomorrow, learn each day as if you 
were going to live forever"

Re: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

[Aidan]

Yes but that shouldn't be an excuse. These companies must wake up. I
no of a manufacture who does allot better in hardware and wich players
wifi is much stronger. Soon it will be able to record internet radio
and its much cheaper. Also humanware is very slow to update, fix bugs,
and new features. All new promts are now spoken by heather, though
they claim the stream is one of the players with human speech, well
these days they may just as well remove the human voice altogether,
since they don't seem to want to change these promts to speak with it
any longer.

On 01/05/2017, Dane Trethowan  wrote:
> Ah! well you've probably hit the nail right on the head when it comes to
> the download speed if everything goes through the Humanware server.
>
> Yep, the Wireless chip seems a little outdated but after all! we're
> talking all things Humanware and for the blind here aren't we .
>
>
>
> On 2/05/2017 12:43 AM, Gary Schindler wrote:
>> In addition to what you said about the slow download speed of the
>> Victor stream second generation, I feel that the chip for the wireless
>> receiver could be more sensitive. Another thing I believe is that the
>> internet streams seem to go through a server controlled by Humanware
>> for the most part. If there is a problem for some reason with there
>> server, the machine locks up even though you are connected to your
>> router. that being said, it seems to be the best all around device in
>> it's class for the money!
>>
>>
>> -Original Message- From: Dane Trethowan
>> Sent: Monday, May 01, 2017 10:24 AM
>> To: PC Audio Discussion List
>> Subject: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation
>>
>> Hi!
>>
>> I just bought one of these units and would like to make comment on my
>> purchase.
>>
>> Firstly I think that the unit does a brilliant job for what it is in
>> most respects.
>>
>> The sound from the internal speaker is a little muffled however - having
>> already heard a VR Stream - I was already prepared for this, a bit of an
>> annoyance one might say so to overcome this I use a small BUniden
>> hand-held amplified battery speaker I've had for years, cost me $25
>> about 7 years ago, pity the Stream doesn't have Bluetooth but I guess a
>> product can't have everythint.
>>
>> Now I don't know whether this is my unit in particular but I have
>> noticed that the downloading of data seems to be incredibly slow
>> compared to other devices I have on my network, I used the "Check for
>> Updates" function and - according to that - the firmware is up to date,
>> well at least the data does get downloaded I guess.
>>
>> There's a hell of a lot of functionality packed into the VR Stream box
>> and a lot of this - such as the Internet Radio, podcasts and so forth -
>> I won't bother using - given I already have better solutions for that
>> sort of thing - but for those who don't the VR Stream provides a great
>> entry level to the world of Internet Radio and Podcasting.
>>
>> Getting online with the Vision Australia library was a snap so I
>> downlaoded a couple of books.
>>
>> Again, I have other Apps and so forth which I prefer to use myself but
>> the Stream is convenient for reading, no doubt about that even though I
>> read all my newspapers these days straight from the web site its good to
>> know I have a reliable backup.
>>
>>
>>
>
> --
>
> **
> "Live each day as if you were goiing to die tomorrow, learn each day as if
> you were going to live forever"
>
>
>


-- 
Facebook: m.facebook.com/aidan.maher92
Skype: andries4451
Twitter: smarttalk7
Audioboo: www.audioboo.com/DjSpotlight

Re: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

[Dane Trethowan]

Ah! well you've probably hit the nail right on the head when it comes to 
the download speed if everything goes through the Humanware server.


Yep, the Wireless chip seems a little outdated but after all! we're 
talking all things Humanware and for the blind here aren't we .




On 2/05/2017 12:43 AM, Gary Schindler wrote:
In addition to what you said about the slow download speed of the 
Victor stream second generation, I feel that the chip for the wireless 
receiver could be more sensitive. Another thing I believe is that the 
internet streams seem to go through a server controlled by Humanware 
for the most part. If there is a problem for some reason with there 
server, the machine locks up even though you are connected to your 
router. that being said, it seems to be the best all around device in 
it's class for the money!



-Original Message- From: Dane Trethowan
Sent: Monday, May 01, 2017 10:24 AM
To: PC Audio Discussion List
Subject: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

Hi!

I just bought one of these units and would like to make comment on my
purchase.

Firstly I think that the unit does a brilliant job for what it is in
most respects.

The sound from the internal speaker is a little muffled however - having
already heard a VR Stream - I was already prepared for this, a bit of an
annoyance one might say so to overcome this I use a small BUniden
hand-held amplified battery speaker I've had for years, cost me $25
about 7 years ago, pity the Stream doesn't have Bluetooth but I guess a
product can't have everythint.

Now I don't know whether this is my unit in particular but I have
noticed that the downloading of data seems to be incredibly slow
compared to other devices I have on my network, I used the "Check for
Updates" function and - according to that - the firmware is up to date,
well at least the data does get downloaded I guess.

There's a hell of a lot of functionality packed into the VR Stream box
and a lot of this - such as the Internet Radio, podcasts and so forth -
I won't bother using - given I already have better solutions for that
sort of thing - but for those who don't the VR Stream provides a great
entry level to the world of Internet Radio and Podcasting.

Getting online with the Vision Australia library was a snap so I
downlaoded a couple of books.

Again, I have other Apps and so forth which I prefer to use myself but
the Stream is convenient for reading, no doubt about that even though I
read all my newspapers these days straight from the web site its good to
know I have a reliable backup.





--

**
"Live each day as if you were goiing to die tomorrow, learn each day as if you were 
going to live forever"

Re: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

[Gary Schindler]

In addition to what you said about the slow download speed of the Victor 
stream second generation, I feel that the chip for the wireless receiver 
could be more sensitive. Another thing I believe is that the internet 
streams seem to go through a server controlled by Humanware for the most 
part. If there is a problem for some reason with there server, the machine 
locks up even though you are connected to your router. that being said, it 
seems to be the best all around device in it's class for the money!



-Original Message- 
From: Dane Trethowan

Sent: Monday, May 01, 2017 10:24 AM
To: PC Audio Discussion List
Subject: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

Hi!

I just bought one of these units and would like to make comment on my
purchase.

Firstly I think that the unit does a brilliant job for what it is in
most respects.

The sound from the internal speaker is a little muffled however - having
already heard a VR Stream - I was already prepared for this, a bit of an
annoyance one might say so to overcome this I use a small BUniden
hand-held amplified battery speaker I've had for years, cost me $25
about 7 years ago, pity the Stream doesn't have Bluetooth but I guess a
product can't have everythint.

Now I don't know whether this is my unit in particular but I have
noticed that the downloading of data seems to be incredibly slow
compared to other devices I have on my network, I used the "Check for
Updates" function and - according to that - the firmware is up to date,
well at least the data does get downloaded I guess.

There's a hell of a lot of functionality packed into the VR Stream box
and a lot of this - such as the Internet Radio, podcasts and so forth -
I won't bother using - given I already have better solutions for that
sort of thing - but for those who don't the VR Stream provides a great
entry level to the world of Internet Radio and Podcasting.

Getting online with the Vision Australia library was a snap so I
downlaoded a couple of books.

Again, I have other Apps and so forth which I prefer to use myself but
the Stream is convenient for reading, no doubt about that even though I
read all my newspapers these days straight from the web site its good to
know I have a reliable backup.



--

**
"Live each day as if you were goiing to die tomorrow, learn each day as if 
you were going to live forever"

SV: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

[Brian Olesen]

HI,
And don't forget the wonderful battery life, when you're on the go.

Brian

-Oprindelig meddelelse-
Fra: Pc-audio [mailto:pc-audio-boun...@pc-audio.org] På vegne af Dane Trethowan
Sendt: 1. maj 2017 16:25
Til: PC Audio Discussion List 
Emne: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

Hi!

I just bought one of these units and would like to make comment on my purchase.

Firstly I think that the unit does a brilliant job for what it is in most 
respects.

The sound from the internal speaker is a little muffled however - having 
already heard a VR Stream - I was already prepared for this, a bit of an 
annoyance one might say so to overcome this I use a small BUniden hand-held 
amplified battery speaker I've had for years, cost me $25 about 7 years ago, 
pity the Stream doesn't have Bluetooth but I guess a product can't have 
everythint.

Now I don't know whether this is my unit in particular but I have noticed that 
the downloading of data seems to be incredibly slow compared to other devices I 
have on my network, I used the "Check for Updates" function and - according to 
that - the firmware is up to date, well at least the data does get downloaded I 
guess.

There's a hell of a lot of functionality packed into the VR Stream box and a 
lot of this - such as the Internet Radio, podcasts and so forth - I won't 
bother using - given I already have better solutions for that sort of thing - 
but for those who don't the VR Stream provides a great entry level to the world 
of Internet Radio and Podcasting.

Getting online with the Vision Australia library was a snap so I downlaoded a 
couple of books.

Again, I have other Apps and so forth which I prefer to use myself but the 
Stream is convenient for reading, no doubt about that even though I read all my 
newspapers these days straight from the web site its good to know I have a 
reliable backup.



-- 

**
"Live each day as if you were goiing to die tomorrow, learn each day as if you 
were going to live forever"

Re: Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

[Matthew Bullis]

OK, that brings up a question. Whenever I try to add credentials to
the ABWA Australian library, the Stream only accepts numbers in my
user id. I got this username several years ago when Greg was
publicizing the access for users in the U.S. Are new usernames now
numbers, and should I contact someone to get it changed?
Thanks,
Matthew

Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation

[Dane Trethowan]

Hi!

I just bought one of these units and would like to make comment on my 
purchase.


Firstly I think that the unit does a brilliant job for what it is in 
most respects.


The sound from the internal speaker is a little muffled however - having 
already heard a VR Stream - I was already prepared for this, a bit of an 
annoyance one might say so to overcome this I use a small BUniden 
hand-held amplified battery speaker I've had for years, cost me $25 
about 7 years ago, pity the Stream doesn't have Bluetooth but I guess a 
product can't have everythint.


Now I don't know whether this is my unit in particular but I have 
noticed that the downloading of data seems to be incredibly slow 
compared to other devices I have on my network, I used the "Check for 
Updates" function and - according to that - the firmware is up to date, 
well at least the data does get downloaded I guess.


There's a hell of a lot of functionality packed into the VR Stream box 
and a lot of this - such as the Internet Radio, podcasts and so forth - 
I won't bother using - given I already have better solutions for that 
sort of thing - but for those who don't the VR Stream provides a great 
entry level to the world of Internet Radio and Podcasting.


Getting online with the Vision Australia library was a snap so I 
downlaoded a couple of books.


Again, I have other Apps and so forth which I prefer to use myself but 
the Stream is convenient for reading, no doubt about that even though I 
read all my newspapers these days straight from the web site its good to 
know I have a reliable backup.




--

**
"Live each day as if you were goiing to die tomorrow, learn each day as if you were 
going to live forever"