This is my must-have list of technology that helps me get through the day and life, in general. I'll try to keep it updated as my needs continue to evolve (or as things break!).
With my focus on MiniDiscs, the first section is all about the tools you'll see in my videos that help me get stuff done!
Some (not all!) of these links may be affiliate links that help justify my ability to devote time to this "hobby" =) but will never influence a recommendation. If I do list something here, I've used it or I'm currently using it.
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Gumstick Chargers
Yes, many of your devices can charge a gumstick inside, but that's just one at a time and if you have multiple different devices and manufacturers (ahem...), there's more plug-contention happening there. I like these two chargers as dual-slot gumstick battery (or 18650s for my big slot-loaders!) chargers. I leave the Nitecore at home and take the EBL with me for travel since it uses a USB-C cable.
EBL Dual Slot charger - can use for standard batteries, but also fits gumsticks and 18650s! Uses a USB-C cable for charging and it's small enough to pack on a trip to Japan =)
Tools
To fix MiniDisc devices, you're going to need a good set of tools and here are the ones that I use (you'll see them in my videos):
iFixit Mako Driver kit - these 64 bits and the smoothly rotating handle will get you into whatever device you're working on. The magnetized handle is powerful enough to pass through whatever bit you're using, so you're not going to lose screws either. This is a must-have and a big upgrade from the cheap, hardware store chrome-plated "micro screwdrivers".
iFixit Precision Tweezers - these 3 tweezers are now my go-to since I was too rough on my generic, unbranded tweezers (the tips don't align anymore). As usual they are high-quality and ESD safe since they're coated. This 3-in-one kit gives you angled, pointed precision, and a flat tip with gripping teeth.
Kaisi S-130 Silicone mat - This mat is my main "background" in videos because it's good to protect your desktop as you work, but it also has a lot of handy indentations for putting your screws in as you work. I like to use the grid to keep track of screws (for example, bottom screws go near the bottom edge, the top lid's screws go on the top, and interior screws go in the middle). It comes in different sizes to cover more area if you need it.
Computing Devices
I think specific configurations can cause too much variation in terms of models/SKUs but the types of devices I use daily include some old and new things:
Rode VideoMic GO II Camera-mount Lightweight Directional Microphone - Sure, I'm not really camera-mounting this, but I like how it's small, light, directional and it works pretty well. I may invest in a "proper" mic with audio interface at some point, but right now, this works well!
Phones - I still like the "separation of work and life" so I carry two phones.
Google Pixel 8 Pro - the other ones have been retired, so it's these two now... I really do miss the dual screens of the LG V60, but I don't know if foldables are ready for prime-time just yet. I know Google's Pixel Fold was very interesting but some high issue/failure rates have me gun-shy. If anything, there might be a Samsung Galaxy Fold 5 in my future...
Samsung S23 Ultra - I'm a sucker for styluses (stylii?) as you'll see in my other daily-driver devices. I don't love the idea of carrying around two giant phones (a total of three 6.8" screens!), but since my venerable LG V60 has been retired, now I just carry two large-screened phones...
Asus ROG Strix 18 (2024)- Yes, it's a massive gaming laptop with a 13th gen Intel i9, 32 Gb of RAM (upgraded from 16) and an Nvidia RTX 4080. I rarely even have time to play games on it, which is sad, but I do get to create videos!
Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra - This beast of a tablet is a bit of an indulgence for sure, but nothing beats 14.6" of OLED in a razor-thin form-factor! Great for consuming content and drawing in Clip Studio Paint, it's never been easier to carry around a powerful device with such a beautiful display.
Chargers and cables
In this day and age, you can never have enough, can you? When I was traveling more, I was concerned with portability and power banks, but the pandemic has changed that and now I'm really more concerned with efficiency, power, and flexibility.
UGreen 100W GaN 2-port USB-C charger w/folding plug
OK so this would be great for home or travel! I was looking to get at least two ports of high-powered charging for a laptop or tablet that charges via USB-C along with a phone or other device. This fit the bill perfectly. If you're unfamiliar with GaN, it stands for Gallium Nitride which allows for smaller, more efficient chargers. It's a nice dense brick that will power whatever you need. The only thing of note is that connecting a new device while it's charging an existing one may cause the charging to be interrupted temporarily while power is reallocated. For example, you may hear that USB "disconnect" sound in Windows, but just give it a second and you'll be back in business.
USB-A to 3x USB-C charging adapter
UGreen USB-C hub - USB-C to 4x USB-A
I swear, I'm not sponsored by UGreen (but gimme a call, if interested!), but I also love these USB hubs. I have a few of them and I like to use them by extending harder to reach USB-C ports (behind a laptop or monitor) and allowing me to use the ports up front. I like how there's one that sticks up. I like to use that one for a memory card reader or for a dongle that I might take with me between devices. The cord is long enough to be useful and can be coiled/tucked away to keep things neat.
INIU USB-A to USB-C 5-pack in varying lengths with green LED
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