article thumbnail

Build Your Own Hi-fi Ear Defenders

Cars That Think

Now, after countless versions of wiring things together, and even designing my own audio mixers, I finally have a DIY solution that works within a reasonable budget. I chose the $10 ESP32 because it would allow me to operate the WM8960 and also accept audio via a Bluetooth connection from, say, my phone, and stream it to the WM8960.

Building 118
article thumbnail

Building the Future of Smart Home Security

Cars That Think

It’s nearly impossible to find a household today that doesn’t have at least one connected smart home device installed. It redefined the home security space by introducing wireless, DIY products and pioneered giving customers the ability to monitor their homes via a smartphone app. SimpliSafe works differently.

article thumbnail

A Web-Enabled, High Quality, DIY Audio Amp

Cars That Think

November 2018 Hands On article, “DIY Pro Audio ” in IEEE Spectrum , and it convinced me it was possible, although I wanted to go beyond just a power amplifier to something more like my lamented Sansui. To this board I also connected a tap along with a low-pass filter and output—just in case I decide to build my own subwoofer speaker!

DIY 98
article thumbnail

Road Test: 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited AWD

Clean Fleet Report

It may seem like a small thing, but for some not having that connecting point at a 90º angle will affect access. Imagine an arrow lying on its side, connected by a red reflector strip. Blue Link and Digital Key offer connected services including being able to start the Santa Cruz remotely. The light show. Some of both obviously.

Hyundai 80
article thumbnail

Road Test: 2021 Mazda CX-9 Signature AWD

Clean Fleet Report

When we drove it, we found this midsize crossover checks the boxes that put it in the premium class, but without the price. The Mazda Connect connectivity system includes Bluetooth, voice recognition, Aha, Pandora and Stitcher radio integration. Story and photos by John Faulkner. At least that’s what Mazda says. Kodo calling.

Mazda 52
article thumbnail

Road Test: 2024 Ford Maverick Lariat FWD Hybrid

Clean Fleet Report

The electric-power steering was properly tuned to feel connected to the road, making for a fun drive that is more similar to a crossover than a truck. FordPass Connect offers convenience features such as remote lock/unlock, remote keyless entry and engine start. All of this resulted in minimal cabin noise.

Ford 50
article thumbnail

Road Test: 2022 Ford Maverick XL FWD EcoBoost

Clean Fleet Report

The Maverick EcoBoost was not designed to be a heavy-duty work truck, but more for the weekend warrior/home owner doing DIY projects or used for active lifestyles for activities such as biking and kayaking. FordPass Connect offers convenience features such as keyless entry and remote locking and engine start.

Ford 92