Bob Buskirk and Ryan Kerschner from ThinkComputers.org join this week as we discuss the latest consumer technology. We review Intel’s new Core Ultra processors and their efficiency compared to AMD, while addressing the challenges of ARM technology in enterprise computing. We explore consumer preferences, noting the divide between hardcore gamers and everyday users. Bob also highlight the MSI Datamag portable SSD for content creators, and we wrap up discussing the Shure MV6 Gaming Mic as well as Black Friday sales and expectations for CES. Thanks for listening!

Full show notes, transcriptions (available on request), audio and video at http://theAverageGuy.tv/hgg627

Join Jim Collison / @jcollison for show #627 of Home Gadget Geeks, brought to you by the Average Guy Network.

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Links

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Show Chapters

[00:04:44] New Intel Processor Review

[00:09:04] ARM in the Enterprise

[00:12:49] NPUs and Future of CPUs

[00:14:36] Arrow Lake S Performance

[00:18:53] Consumer Reactions to New Chips

[00:21:54] AMD’s Upgrade Path

[00:25:02] AMD Ryzen 9000 Release

[00:26:33] ARM’s Growing Influence

[00:31:46] Cloud Gaming vs. Local Processing

[00:34:25] Recommendations for Upgrading PCs

[00:38:10] Gaming and Streaming Hardware

[00:40:01] MSI Datamag SSD Review

[00:44:54] Content Creation and External Storage

[00:45:55] Photography and Smartphone Memories

[01:06:32] Upcoming Events: Black Friday & CES

[01:09:32] Future of ARM Processors

[01:16:35] Closing Remarks and Next Episode

Extended Outline

• Weather and Personal Updates[0:00]
  • Jim Collison mentions the weather in Nebraska, noting thunderstorms despite it being October 24.
  • Ryan Kerschner talks about the unexpected 90-degree weather in his area and the storms.
  • Bob Buskirk describes the weather in San Diego, noting it’s usually sunny and 70 degrees but can get cold at night.
  • Jim Collison and Bob Buskirk discuss the marine layer effect in coastal areas like San Diego and Los Angeles.
• ThinkComputers.org and Patreon Support[2:37]
  • Jim Collison promotes ThinkComputers.org and its detailed reviews.
  • Jim thanks Patreon subscribers and explains the support options available through Amazon affiliate links.
  • Bob Buskirk talks about the podcast schedule at ThinkComputers.org, mentioning recent breaks due to moving and vacation.
  • Bob and Jim discuss the importance of taking breaks and not overworking themselves.
• Intel Core Processor Review[4:43]
  • Bob Buskirk introduces the new Intel Core Ultra 9 processor and its features.
  • Bob explains the new naming convention for Intel processors, focusing on the high-end chips.
  • Jim Collison and Bob discuss the performance expectations and efficiency improvements of the new processor.
  • Bob highlights the better cooling and efficiency of the new processor compared to previous generations.
• Comparison with AMD and Market Position[6:08]
  • Jim Collison asks about the market for the new Intel processor and its appeal to gamers and enthusiasts.
  • Bob Buskirk explains that while gamers might be initially disappointed, the processor offers better efficiency and cooling.
  • Ryan Kerschner adds that the focus is on power per watt and performance efficiency.
  • Bob mentions the new AMD Ryzen 9000 series and its similar approach to efficiency and performance.
• Enterprise and AI Computing[21:20]
  • Jim Collison discusses the impact of Microsoft’s ARM-based Windows on the enterprise computing space.
  • Bob Buskirk and Ryan Kerschner talk about the industry’s shift towards better efficiency and cooling.
  • Jim mentions the potential of NPU-based systems and their role in AI workloads.
  • Bob explains the integration of NPU in new processors and its benefits for local AI tasks.
• Upgrading Personal Computing Setup[21:35]
  • Jim Collison asks for advice on upgrading his personal computing setup.
  • Bob Buskirk recommends staying with the Ryzen 5000 series for now, given Jim’s use case.
  • Ryan Kerschner suggests considering an upgrade path to the Ryzen 7000 series for better performance.
  • Jim and Bob discuss the benefits of the current setup, including the extra RAM and GPU.
• ARM and Cloud Gaming[25:13]
  • Jim Collison brings up the potential of ARM-based computing and its impact on the enterprise.
  • Bob Buskirk mentions Qualcomm’s efforts in the desktop chip space and the challenges involved.
  • Jim and Bob discuss the limitations of cloud gaming due to internet speeds and user preferences.
  • Bob highlights the challenges faced by cloud gaming services like Stadia and the importance of local systems.
• MSI Data Mag 20 Gig Portable SSD[35:42]
  • Bob Buskirk introduces the MSI Data Mag 20 Gig Portable SSD with a magnetic back for MagSafe phones.
  • Bob explains the benefits of the magnetic design for easy storage and accessibility.
  • Jim Collison and Bob discuss the importance of fast storage for high-resolution video recording.
  • Bob mentions the limitations of the USB 3.2 gen 2 connection and the potential for faster speeds.
• Sure SM V6 USB Gaming Microphone Review[45:41]
  • Ryan Kerschner reviews the Sure SM V6 USB gaming microphone.
  • Ryan highlights the microphone’s versatility and ease of use, including its Type-C connection.
  • Jim Collison and Ryan discuss the benefits of USB microphones for streaming and podcasting.
  • Ryan mentions the in-line audio monitoring feature and the sturdy build of the microphone.
• Future Tech Events and Predictions[1:05:28]
  • Jim Collison asks about upcoming events like Black Friday and CES.
  • Bob Buskirk predicts deals on TVs, laptops, and other tech gadgets during Black Friday.
  • Bob and Jim discuss the potential announcements at CES, including the new Nvidia TX 50 series GPUs.
  • Jim and Bob speculate on the future of GPU prices and the impact of AI and gaming on the market.

—
More from Chat GPT

In this episode of Home Gadget Geeks, I welcome Bob and Ryan from ThinkComputers.org as we dive deep into the latest trends in technology for the everyday consumer. Recorded on October 24, 2024, the conversation kicks off with an exploration of the unusual weather patterns experienced in the Midwest, contrasting with the consistent climate in San Diego where Bob resides. Our discussion transitions from casual weather banter to the core of the episode: dissecting the latest advancements in home gadgets and tech products.

We begin by discussing the recent reviews Bob and Ryan conducted, particularly focusing on Intel’s new Core Ultra processors and how they stack up against AMD’s Ryzen offerings. The launch of the Intel Core Ultra 9 285k garners mixed reviews. While it excels in multi-core performance and efficiency, gamers are less impressed due to the lack of significant generational improvements. Bob explains that the emphasis is more on power efficiency than on raw performance, a shift he believes is essential for mainstream consumers who demand high-end chips without the need for extensive cooling solutions.

The conversation then pivots to the future of ARM technology and its implications for enterprise computing. Arm’s increasing presence in the market, particularly in the context of Microsoft’s ARM version of Windows, adds layers of intrigue. We consider how ARM could reshape the landscape, especially as it pertains to applications developed for mobile environments transitioning to more powerful computing situations. Bob shares insights on how while ARM may look appealing on the surface, the challenges of compatibility, especially with legacy software, may hold it back.

As we continue to examine the tech landscape, the topic shifts to consumer preferences. Bob highlights the significant distinction between enthusiast gamers and the average tech user, noting that the average consumer would be pleased with the performance and stability of the new processors. The implication being that while hardcore gamers may grumble over slight downgrades in performance, everyday users find great value in cooler-running, efficient systems that meet their everyday computing needs.

In parallel, Bob shares his updates on the latest product reviews, including the MSI Datamag portable SSD. This enticing product, featuring a magnetic back, is tailored for content creators who want easy storage extension for their smartphones, particularly for those shooting high-resolution videos. The discussion adds depth to our understanding of how new gadgets meet the needs of modern digital creators.

We wrap up with speculation on the upcoming Black Friday sales and the excitement surrounding CES next January. Bob anticipates announcements, particularly in graphics cards, while Ryan expresses interest in the new offerings and price trajectories. Our conversations reflect an evolving landscape in consumer technology, where efficiency and practicality are becoming just as important as cutting-edge performance.

Join us as we dissect, review, and critique the latest tools and gadgets designed for the average tech enthusiast, helping you navigate every aspect of your home technology experience. For detailed product information and insights, be sure to check out ThinkComputers.org for their comprehensive reviews on these topics.

Products mentioned:

• Intel Core Ultra 9 processor
• AMD Ryzen 9000 series processors
• Nvidia RTX 50 series GPUs
• MSI Data Mag 20 Gig Portable SSD
• Sure SM V6 USB Gaming Microphone
• Elgato Wave Link software
• Focus Right audio interface
• Hyper X Pro Cast XLR microphone
• Sound Blaster K3 Plus audio interface

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