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Title: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on August 15, 2011, 10:00:33 am
Cintiq: 21UX (2nd Gen)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Inrl7JgnYK4


I already have the Wacom Intunos Tablet and it's okay as it was meant to be a temporary fill-in. I've had it for maybe 5 years or so. At the time, it was really all I could afford and back then Tablets were pricey and the Cintiq were insanely out of my budget. Back then it was along the lines of 4-5k. It's still a bit pricey but the cost is cut in half  now for the 21 Inch Monitor. I will be checking daily to see what kind of deals I can find on Ebay or Craigslist.

Why do I need this? Well for starters, I don't like drawing or coloring using tablets because I like to look at my hand/pencil when I'm drawing. No matter how much time I've spent looking at the monitor and drawing off site, it's still not a natural fit for me. So, time to shell out the big bucks.
Title: Re: Cintiq
Post by: Chiprocks1 on August 15, 2011, 10:05:16 am
FYI, I am looking for alternatives to the Cintiq if they exist. If there are other brands that allow you to draw and paint directly on the screen, I am willing to check it out and weigh the pros and cons regarding price and specs. If anyone knows anything, give me your thoughts.
Title: Re: Cintiq
Post by: jinn366 on August 15, 2011, 10:51:31 am
I don't really know much about them other than I can't afford one :lol:   
Title: Re: Cintiq
Post by: Chiprocks1 on August 15, 2011, 10:53:02 am
I don't really know much about them other than I can't afford one :lol:

Haha. No sh*t huh.
Title: Re: Cintiq
Post by: Chiprocks1 on August 15, 2011, 10:55:53 am
Fujitsu Stylistic ST5112 Tablet

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zYzsj2YMYAE

This looks interesting. I'm down for something that is robust (or as close as you can get to that of a Cintiq) and have the mobility that comes with an iPad.
Title: Re: Cintiq
Post by: Keith Draws on August 15, 2011, 10:59:16 am
I wouldn't like to be without mine, I've had it about 3 years now. I have the 20 version which they don't make anymore. The only issue is I have to use it  fairly upright because it gets hot. I've read in forums that it does not get too hot. This is not true. If I have it at 20 to 30 degrees angle , bearing in mind I use it for around 12 to 14 hours a day, it gets hot enough to burn my hand. Having it at 60 to 70 degrees the heat stays at the top of the monitor so so long as my hand is in the lower 2 thirds of the monitor its bearable. When I got this there was a Japanese alternative for less than half the price but the monitor was only capable of displaying thousands of colours (I always thought that was a graphics card issue) so perhaps it was a mis print. Anyway I have'nt seen any alternatives recently other than self builds.
If you can afford one its worth the cash I think. I save a fortune in paper pencils and materials. Even my sketching I do on the cintiq. The down side is you never have originals to sell.
Title: Re: Cintiq
Post by: Chiprocks1 on August 15, 2011, 11:05:36 am
I wouldn't like to be without mine, I've had it about 3 years now. I have the 20 version which they don't make anymore. The only issue is I have to use it  fairly upright because it gets hot. I've read in forums that it does not get too hot. This is not true. If I have it at 20 to 30 degrees angle , bearing in mind I use it for around 12 to 14 hours a day, it gets hot enough to burn my hand. Having it at 60 to 70 degrees the heat stays at the top of the monitor so so long as my hand is in the lower 2 thirds of the monitor its bearable. When I got this there was a Japanese alternative for less than half the price but the monitor was only capable of displaying thousands of colours (I always thought that was a graphics card issue) so perhaps it was a mis print. Anyway I have'nt seen any alternatives recently other than self builds.
If you can afford one its worth the cash I think. I save a fortune in paper pencils and materials. Even my sketching I do on the cintiq. The down side is you never have originals to sell.

I got to play around with this at Comic Con this year. It is pretty sick. But I really didn't ask a whole lot of questions other than "how do you do this?. What is this for?". But now that I'm really looking to get this or an alternative, I'm kicking myself for not asking more meaningful questions.

As for getting hot, is this a common thing with your set? How long can you work before the heat becomes noticeable? Any breakdowns in performance since you've had it? How reliable are refurbished ones? How much does it weigh? Do you move it around and work wherever you want or are basically married to your office? So many questions I know I have but can't think of at the moment.

The downside is definitely no originals to sell. But for me it will be for coloring and painting more the drawing, even though i know I will do some of that too.
Title: Re: Cintiq
Post by: Keith Draws on August 15, 2011, 11:32:27 am
With those tablet PC's I think you need to check how many levels of pressure sensitivity they have and how accurate the pointer is. They look good though I must admit. There are others around as well. If you are near dealerships I think it would be wise to go out and try them out with Photoshop and manga studio. I'm sure they would let you considering the costs involved.
Title: Re: Cintiq
Post by: Chiprocks1 on August 15, 2011, 11:35:37 am
With those tablet PC's I think you need to check how many levels of pressure sensitivity they have and how accurate the pointer is. They look good though I must admit. There are others around as well. If you are near dealerships I think it would be wise to go out and try them out with Photoshop and manga studio. I'm sure they would let you considering the costs involved.

The closet dealer of any kind here is Staples and they don't have anything like what we are discussing here. Best Buy doesn't have anything either. I'm not even entirely sure Fry's has anything. I know that when it comes down to buying which ever product I go with, it's going to be through Amazon most likely.
Title: Re: Cintiq
Post by: Keith Draws on August 15, 2011, 11:41:19 am
I spent 300 USD on a custom made flight case. Its right at the limit for hand luggage but they let me carry it on and off of planes. Its too heavy to have on your lap  or move around easily and too delicate to risk it (hence the flight case). It gets hot pretty quick, around 30 minutes I'd say. Mine has been reliable up to now. I know nothing about refurbished ones.  The pen nibs last about 4 months with constant use but are cheap enough to replace. Unfortunately I cant get them here since they wont deliver and am trying to find a solution to that. The five I have are now very worn and wont last much longer. It swings around if you want it to has useful function buttons (programmable on each side and zoom sliders on the back). the new ones have more features to I think. All in all well thought out but still very expensive considering its not a Tablet PC but just a tablet screen.
Title: Re: Cintiq
Post by: Keith Draws on August 15, 2011, 11:45:10 am
Well in the UK they were more than twice the price so I found a dealer in LA and flew over, had a holiday and even after paying  import taxes I still saved almost a 1000 USD. They let me try it out  before I handed over cash too. You will probably be better off buying a wacom direct from them.
Title: Re: Cintiq
Post by: Chiprocks1 on August 15, 2011, 11:45:44 am
I'm curious to know if you run a fan on your Cintiq while your working and if that at helps maintain a cooler temp. Kind of like that fans you buy for Laptops and set on top of that. My concern is that with the amount of coloring I would be doing that it will overheat faster than I like, leading to a breakdown of the machine itself.
Title: Re: Cintiq
Post by: Chiprocks1 on August 15, 2011, 11:46:40 am
They let me try it out  before I handed over cash too. You will probably be better off buying a wacom direct from them.

Wow. I can't see anyone doing that, given the dollar amount attached to it.
Title: Re: Cintiq
Post by: Keith Draws on August 15, 2011, 11:54:49 am
I think if the heat was going to make it break down it would have done by now. 3 years  of it being on almost all the time. I use it as my main monitor. A fan wont make a lot of difference I dont think. The heat is coming from inside. I just dont know why since the power pack is external. There must a hard working chip with a heatsink in it somewhere.
Title: Re: Cintiq
Post by: Keith Draws on August 15, 2011, 11:56:39 am
Where are you? Could you could visit the dealer in LA? I can give you their details and will dig them out if you want.
Title: Re: Cintiq
Post by: Keith Draws on August 15, 2011, 11:58:00 am
Wow. I can't see anyone doing that, given the dollar amount attached to it.
Try it out for a few hours in the store. They didn't let me take it home. LOL
Title: Re: Cintiq
Post by: Chiprocks1 on August 15, 2011, 12:00:02 pm
Where are you? Could you could visit the dealer in LA? I can give you their details and will dig them out if you want.

San Diego. I could drive to LA to check it out.
Title: Re: Cintiq
Post by: Chiprocks1 on August 15, 2011, 12:01:15 pm
Try it out for a few hours in the store. They didn't let me take it home. LOL

Ha. That makes more sense. From the last post, it came off that you ordered it, had it delivered to your house, and THEN tried it out. D'oh!
Title: Re: Cintiq
Post by: Chiprocks1 on August 22, 2011, 01:28:53 am
Asus EP121 vs Cintiq 21UX (Part 1)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HAZg9bEPm1E

Asus EP121 vs Cintiq 21UX (Part 2)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-LTKFWt-Mrg&feature=related

Alternative comparison. I'm still looking and price shopping all over the place.

Title: Re: Cintiq
Post by: Chiprocks1 on September 13, 2011, 07:31:28 pm
Wacom Cintiq 24 HD

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xEPm8__VXjo&feature=share

New Cintiq 24HD photos from China (http://cintiq24hd.com/news/news/recent-news/new-cintiq-24hd-photos-from-china)

Bah!!! I'm saving up for the 21 inch Cintiq. Now I have to save up for this because it's gonna make the 21 inch look like lego's or something.

Title: Re: Cintiq
Post by: Chiprocks1 on November 26, 2011, 06:52:42 pm
Cintiq 24HD Review

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=93DqptUK5Ro


Pretty good review that has only furthered the need for me to get this ASAP! Bah! I like some of the screen options and the digital Keyboard is a nice added bonus and will be extremely handy and time saving for me. I wonder if that glove he is wearing (to keep smudging the screen to a minimum) comes with the Cintiq. When I was at this years (and last years) Comic Con, none of the people demonstrating the product wore any gloves.

They didn't have the 24HD at the Con, and I don't remember the 21 even being all that big. But this 24HD is a monstrosity. Yikes. I'm going to have to rethink my desk setup to make room for this bad boy.

Title: Re: Cintiq
Post by: Chiprocks1 on November 26, 2011, 06:59:17 pm
Cintiq 24HD - Mau Russo Sketching

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7C1eUKYDddg&feature=related

Title: Re: Cintiq
Post by: Umainebearman on November 29, 2011, 10:25:18 pm
I have a very very robust tablet. 17 inch screen, full key board, expansion slots, and fully upgradable. Wai... what?? Oh never mind that my laptop.
Title: Re: Cintiq
Post by: Chiprocks1 on November 29, 2011, 11:00:14 pm
Do you know if any of these tablets that use the pressure sensitivity pen much like the Cintiq are any good?
Title: Re: Cintiq
Post by: Chiprocks1 on June 18, 2012, 01:18:35 pm
Hands-On Demonstration with the 24HD

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SBxRlQVgH_0
Title: Re: Cintiq
Post by: Chiprocks1 on July 04, 2012, 11:55:41 am
Cintiq 24HD Review (Art4Mad)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X5XwM1J3vUk
Title: Re: Cintiq
Post by: Chiprocks1 on December 19, 2013, 03:11:15 pm
Surface Pro 2 and Photoshop / ArtRage / Sketchbook

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HQ2mVHdKtIA


I'm still looking for an alternative and I think I may have found one that I like. I've gotten to try out Surface Pro 2 and it's very intuitive with no noticeable lag. The only negative I have with it is that the Drawing Program installed on it isn't what I would personally use. But it does give you a good idea of what the PC/Tablet can do. One upside to looking for a Drawing Tablet is that there are more and more cheaper alternatives right now and the price is dropping very fast. The Surface Pro 2 right now is 1K for the 128 gb. The keyboard is sold separately which isn't an issue for me. Whichever one I end up buying, I'm pretty confident that I will have a PC/Tablet within the next few months. Still trying to digest a lot of different reviews and their pros and cons. A while back I was looking for a Tablet and nothing more. But the more I thought about it, the more I realize that I want and need a Hybrid PC/Tablet combo so that I can use Photoshop and Corel Painter and pick and choose what drawing program I want. I use to use Art Rage on PC when I had an Intuos.
Title: Re: Cintiq
Post by: Chiprocks1 on December 21, 2013, 03:34:44 pm
Other Alternatives that I'm looking into are:

Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 2014 Edition
Lenovo ThinkPad Yoga
Sony VAIO Duo 13
Asus Transformer Book T100 Windows 8 Tablet
Asus VivoTab TF810C

Title: Re: Cintiq
Post by: Chiprocks1 on December 27, 2013, 07:57:33 pm
Dell Venue 11 Pro
Title: Re: Cintiq
Post by: Chiprocks1 on January 03, 2014, 10:34:12 am
Well that blows! I was watching an auction that I intended to bid on eBay. It was for the Surface Pro 2 and less than 20 minutes to go. I was going to bid on it at the last second and hopefully get it for the price I was okay with. If I could have gotten it for $850 including shipping, I would have been very happy. Well, the auction got pulled for whatever reason. F*ck! Now I have to focus on other auctions till I can find the one that is going to save me a lot of money. I was certain that I'd get this one today and have it in my hands with 3 days. Sigh. The seller of the auction is dumb if she/he pulled it because there were multiple bids and whether they sell and ship it, they have to pay the Fees for those that bid on it. They are losing money off the top.
Title: Re: Cintiq
Post by: Mac on January 03, 2014, 10:58:47 am
Gah... how does one pull an auction item once it's started?

That does blow.
Title: Re: Cintiq
Post by: Chiprocks1 on January 03, 2014, 11:04:49 am
Everyone is allowed to cancel their auctions. But if there are bids on it and a Seller decides they don't want to sell it or whatever reason they have, the Seller still has to pay eBay their fees.
Title: Re: Cintiq
Post by: Chiprocks1 on May 09, 2014, 12:36:47 pm
Microsoft Surface Pro 2 Unboxing & Review - Photoshop, Gaming, etc

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UlaqnH12wlM&list=PLp2e7UfInEgmB-5r4rtQOEsq-H-mNmQhk&index=21


Yes, I'm still on the hunt for the perfect deal on eBay, but the other Buyers are making life difficult by paying essentially the same price for what they can get at a brick and mortar store like Best Buy or Staples. These are clearly new Buyers to eBay that don't understand the logistic of what it means to find a great deal. They get hung up on the dumb idea of "winning" and just end up over paying for stuff, just for the sake of outbidding everyone. Okay, with that little rant out of the way, I'm still looking at current / up to date reviews of Surface Pro 2 and this video in particular does the best job because he no only addressing the artistic side of the tablet, but he includes gaming as well. Also, bonus points for just being a well executed video presentation. There are tons of "Reviews" that I can't even finish do to the lack of knowledge on their part as well as a sh*tty presentation.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on May 09, 2014, 12:38:33 pm
Changed the name of the thread to Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread) since this really isn't a Cintiq thread anymore, but a Tablet Thread.........
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on May 10, 2014, 10:50:54 am
Microsoft announces 'small' Surface event in NYC on May 20 (http://www.cnet.com/news/microsoft-surface-mini-event-announced/)


I'm reeeeeeally hoping that when the "mini" ix announced on May 20 (Ten days from now), that this spurs a sell off from everyone so they can make room for the new stuff which is speculated to street in late June (next month). Not sure if that's gonna happen if they are literally the same product. One can only hope.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on May 19, 2014, 07:57:57 pm
Quote
In recent days, there have been reports that Microsoft will not only launch the Surface Mini on May 20, it will also unveil the Surface Pro 3. Some reports claim the tablet will ship with a 12-inch screen instead of the 10.6-inch display the company has used on its previous Surface and Surface Pro series. A new report has uncovered what we can expect the Surface Pro 3 to feature in terms of some of its specs and pricing details.

Windows Phone Central is reporting that Microsoft will make the Surface Pro 3 available in five different configurations with varying pricing:

i3-4GB RAM-64GB - $799
i5-4GB RAM-128GB - $999
i5-8GB RAM-256GB - $1299
i7-8GB RAM-256GB - $1549
i7-8GB RAM-512GB - $1949
The site also claims that Microsoft will announce redesigned Type covers for the Surface Mini and Surface Pro 3 to fit the new sized displays. The Type covers will be offered in four-color options, black, purple, cyan, and red. The red type covers are believed to be a Microsoft exclusive that will only be sold in the company's retail stores.


I don't know if this "leak" is legit. I would think that MS would be playing this very close to the vest and only a few people would have any kind of specs. With that said, I'm definitely looking forward to seeing what the "12 inch" Surface Pro 3 has to offer. I like the idea of of a larger surface to draw and paint on. But it's what's under the hood that is going to make me want to buy it or decided to stick with SP2. If I do end up getting the SP3, it will probably be i5-8GB RAM-256GB - $1299 if that price point holds true.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on May 20, 2014, 11:20:30 am
Surface Pro 3—The Tablet that Can Replace Your Laptop

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1t7rSZT_77E

Here it is.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on May 20, 2014, 12:19:22 pm
Microsoft's Surface Pro 3 event in under six minutes

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3r2ksSPjfi0&index=41&list=PLp2e7UfInEgmB-5r4rtQOEsq-H-mNmQhk

All the highlights of the presentation here. I'm sold on it. I like!!
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on May 21, 2014, 05:24:02 pm
Having had a 24 hours to dive in and review the specs with regards to Surface Pro 3. I'm out. Yep, I waited all this time and it looked like it was the dream hybrid that I had longed for. Everything was there. Except one crucial thing and that's the pen. I absolutely can't believe that MS would dump Wacom technology for the N-Trig. As an artist, everything starts and ends with the pen. It went from 1024 pressure sensitivity levels for the Wacom to a WHOPPING 256 levels for the N-Trig. This is just mind boggling that someone at MS thought this was okay. The ONLY reason why Surface Pro 2 had any kind of "foothold" in the market place was because of the early adopters from the Art World and it came down to Wacom. Unless there is announcement from MS that the SP3 will allow Wacom pens to be used with the device, I'm just gonna have to look elsewhere. I will however head to the MS Store and check the SP3 out for myself and see what can and can't be done with it. But I certainly won't be buying it anytime soon. What a shame. Disgusted is more like it. F*CK!
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Neumatic on May 23, 2014, 03:48:11 pm
Article about why it's time to kill the Surface (http://stratechery.com/2014/time-kill-surface/).  Curious about your take on this, Chip.

Reading this, I notice I forgot what a lousy state the computer market is in right now, which sucks.  But also reading how terribly broken our software is on a practically molecular level, I wonder if we're on the verge of a computer renaissance since we now realize we need all this new stuff.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on May 23, 2014, 03:52:57 pm
Thanks for the link. Gonna read it now.

Hey Neumatic, do you know of any site that has a complete list of all (or at least a good chunk) of Drawing Tablets from cheapest to the most expensive? Mac and Windows based tablets that is? I'm really looking for alternatives here since SP3 dropped the ball big time. There are so many brands and models that I'd like to be able to go through them from a list and start narrowing down what is possible for me to get. I can't find any kind of list other than the 'Most expensive" brands which defeats the purpose of find the right one for me.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Neumatic on May 23, 2014, 03:58:38 pm
Actually, I would like a list of that as well... Having a draw-y computer is on my list of "wants," a nice desktop computer to use as a workstation.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on May 23, 2014, 04:09:33 pm
Which Drawing Tablet To Buy for Beginners & Professional Artists

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H6UBIUC2JhI


I just found this on YouTube. Gonna watch it now and then come back and post my thoughts on any potential winners for me to look into. The video runs about 18 minutes. Not sure it's gonna hit everything out there. But it's a start. My criteria for what I will eventually get is that it has to be a Touch Tablet (that means on Bamboo or Intuos Graphite, which I got years ago and hated). The other criteria is that the tablet has to be able to run Photoshop, Illustrator, Corel Painter, After Affects and Premiere, Art Rage. What really p*ssed me off about the SP3 Demo when they brought up the guy from Adobe to "show off" what it could do is that he didn't do sh*t. He thinks that using your fingers to pinch and expand the canvas and rotate is enough to sell me on it. When he "drew" on the tab, all he did was  scribble with no line weight. That guy should be shot.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Neumatic on May 23, 2014, 04:12:18 pm
All these years later, I still find myself drooling in desire for a ModBook.  Basically, before tablets took off, a company took Macbooks and flipped the screen over and put a WACOM screen on top: the result being a tablet that runs Photoshop, Illustrator, whatever.  Still don't understand why we can't have that mainstream.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on May 23, 2014, 05:23:41 pm
Wholesale LCD Drawing Tablets  (http://www.aliexpress.com/w/wholesale-lcd-drawing-tablets.html)


Skip that video. It sucks. He spends too much time on pad tablets (what I DON'T want) and the rest of the time on the most expensive tablets (what I CAN'T afford). I did however find this wholesale link to LCD Tablets. There's about 40 of them on the page. I will spend time and go through each one. Immediately, the price point is very doable. Just a question of what the machine can do for me. Never heard of the Wholesale site. So, can't say much about them being a trusted vendor or not. But I'm just looking for a list that can get me started. This seems to be a step in the right direction.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on May 23, 2014, 05:25:30 pm
I'm STILL p*ssed that Microsoft would swap out the Industry leader in pen technology (WACOM) for N-Trig! F*ck!! Still gonna hit the MS store when they have floor demos.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on May 24, 2014, 11:36:15 am
Still waiting for people to give 'Real' reviews on the SP3. As of now, EVERYONE is just regurgitating the same specs given out at the Conference. They all come off as mindless robots that can't think for themselves. With the amount of free SP3's that were given out to those in attendance as well as a handful of artists bloggers, I would have thought that one, if not 2 or 3, would have given us a in depth review about what the N-Trig can and can't do.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on May 24, 2014, 12:02:43 pm
Surface Pro 3: An Artist Review (http://www.penny-arcade.com/news/post/2014/05/23/surface-pro-3)



Okay, I don't know who this guy is, but I managed to find one review from the POV of an artist who's intent is to create on SP3. He seems happy with the N-Trig tech. But I really wished he had been a bit more thorough by using a variety of programs from Photoshop to Painter to Artrage and more. Having read his review about the pen in particular, I am a bit more optimistic. But that optimism came crashing down when you pointed out another huge hurdle that has nothing to do with the pen, but everything to do with the new placement of the Microsoft logo/button. Because of the magnetic strip at the bottom that holds the keyboard in place, they moved the logo to the right hand side (which I already knew about while watching the conference). What I didn't think of is that for right handed artists like myself, resting your hand on the right edge (on the logo itself) is going to activate and send you back to the Desktop.

Can you imagine how f*cking annoying that's going to get when you are invested in an art project of use only to constantly being kicked out of whatever program you're in? Good God! Do they not do any kind of quality control on their products at MS anymore? Have they ever done quality control? That's a pretty big issue for anyone. They reviewer does say that it can be disabled, but doing so will in effect disable the functionality of the program itself. Ugh! I really hope these and the other issues he brings up can be fixed sooner, rather than later. His review is an eye opener. I will reserve judgement until I get to try it out myself.

Neumatic, do you have a Microsoft Store in your neck of the woods that you can go check out the the Surface Pro 3?
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Neumatic on May 24, 2014, 01:47:58 pm
Nope, no Microsoft store... and I don't really have enough experience with screen drawing to give you an accurate account of how one would work (I don't rock that kind of hardware in my day-to-day).

I absolutely hear you about how the software issue.  With my old Mac i could boot Classic and use my old OS 8 and 9 programs (like Nisus and Photoshop 5.5) but not with my new one.  I notice that a couple artists and writers... people who use their computers to create, find a point they like and stick with it.  Remember when... was it Final Cut Pro?  Final Cut Pro was this really popular video editing program for Mac and then they changed it all around and it p*ssed off the core group of users because it was basically a massive downgrade, going for a wider audience instead of making it better for their primary audience.

I honestly think the answer to this is open source software, people making the software they want with the capabilities they want.  There ARE problems with this approach, obviously, but if you're creative, the tools you use should be in your hands and not subject to sudden and arbitrary changes.  And there could definitely stand to be some competition, you know... I HATE Microsoft Word.  Absolutely hate it, never use it, I don't even have it on my computer, imagine that!  And everyone uses it, it's almost a requirement.  There used to be a bunch of other word processing programs and they could interact with each other, but that all went away.  I sincerely wish I had a fantastic alternative to Word for word processing (I just use Textedit and Writeroom, which is a Textedit skin that makes it look like I'm typing ona n old Apple ][).
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on May 24, 2014, 02:02:54 pm
I'm all for Open Source, but with MS pretty much dictating everything, I'm sure they would have some sort of firmware upgrade that would cripple anything that wasn't manufactured out of the box. I just wished the Pro 3 would have delivered what I had been waiting for the past 4-5 months. I knew they were on the verge of a new Surface so I could justify not running out and picking up SP2. But all that went out the window the moment I heard of the switch. Like I said, I'm still going to give it a shot personally and see how it feels. Word has it that the version of Photoshop that runs on the new Surface is custom made for this and the touch tech. It's vague and I haven't been able to find anything else to back up that info.

I wonder who is gonna win the race to please me. Will an Artist(s) be able to upload a video onto YouTube showing off the pen using a bunch of different programs or will the Microsoft Store get floor demos out before then? The only store I have here is about a 15 minute drive away. It's not bad, it's just that I don't like going out in that particular direction and find it to be a waste of time. I'll make the exception this time. Well, as far as you going to a store and trying it out Neumatic, there of course will be alternatives like Staples and Best Buy. I'm sure you have those around your neighborhood. I only asked about the MS Store as they would of course get the demos before anyone else. You should still play around with one. The only time I've been able to play with any of the high-end WACOM's like the Cintiq 24hd is at the San Diego Comic Con. They have a booth there every year and it's always fun to use it and depressing having to walk away from it know that it's just WAY out of my league.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Neumatic on May 24, 2014, 02:15:12 pm
I've not seen any of this kind of thing on display at Best Buy OR Staples.  The computer sections there aren't that impressive, and apparently there's no demand for drawing screens around here.  I remember there used to be a CompUSA or something somewhere but I don't think that's around anywhere, which sucks because now I'm kind of into computer gear.

I think it might just be a thing of.. this technology, at the level of sophistication you want... is just expensive.  It might be a thing where you gotta plop down the dough, you want quality you gotta pay for quality, but ideally the investment will be worth it.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on May 25, 2014, 08:36:12 am
Surface Pro 3 : Pen writing and drawing demo ( Digitizer Stylus )

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VD_fNrLkS54


Okay, here's the first "Review" of the actual Pen that I've been able to find. Now I really wouldn't call this a review because it's just more of a demo than anything else. I think because of the programs he uses to "show off" the Pen actually does make it worse. One Note is aimed strictly for handwriting and even though it looks fluid and responsive, I'm not really impressed with the line weight distribution. I wonder if there is a set up in the programs menu or the Computer itself to change the pressure to each person actual handwriting style. From the looks of the video, he is practically trying to write 'through' the monitor by pressing very hard, and the line weight never gets any fatter than what it is.

As for the 'Drawing Program' that he shows off the drawing aspect of the pen, not impressed at all. For starters, using Fresh Paint program that comes bundled with all Surface Pro's is about as rudimentary as they get. This isn't a program that any self respecting artist would ever use. This is the kind of program or distraction app you give a 4 year old something to do so as not to have to watch them. To really test the mettle of the pen, it has to be run through Top Shelf programs like Photoshop and ArtRage, which allow for pressure adjustments. The Fresh Paint on the Surface Pro 2 that I've messed around with at Staples doesn't offer anything like that. Well, it's something I have never been able to find within the program that is.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on May 26, 2014, 05:42:19 am
Microsoft to Let Everyone Try Out the Surface Pro 3 Starting June 6 (http://news.softpedia.com/news/Microsoft-to-Let-Everyone-Try-Out-the-Surface-Pro-3-Starting-June-6-443777.shtml)
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on June 03, 2014, 03:33:10 pm
I heard that any Best Buy that has a MS Store inside will in fact be getting the SP3 this Friday. So, if you have one nearby and it fits that criteria, you're in luck. I have both stores within minutes of each other, but I'm going to the actual MS Store because my guess is that they will flood the store with a lot of demos for us to try out. I don't want to have to stand around waiting for anyone to give up their tablet. I got sh*t to do!
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on June 06, 2014, 12:27:18 pm
So, I just got back from trying out SP3 today at the MS Store. It's everything it has been touted to be by most reviewers. The only thing that I wanted to check out first and foremost was the Pen responsiveness, the kickstand and the weight of the tablet. All were good in my book. I put the kickstand down all the way to 150 degree angle and put more pressure on that while drawing just to see how stable it was. It held up very well. There was no wobbling of any kind. I thought it would have some give. It's firm. The tablet is frickin' light. As for the Pen, I started in OneNote and there was no pressure sensitivity, which I wasn't expecting anyway.

Writing/drawing in OneNote was very responsive. It was immediate. And yes, it actually felt like you were writing on paper. I don't know if it was the Gorilla Glass or the Pen nib, but there was a tiny bit of friction to help sell the idea of actually writing on the tablet. So, with no pressure in OneNote, I switched to Fresh Paint. I'm still not a fan of the program, but it's all they have on SP3 that comes pre-installed and for testing out the pressure, it did an amazing job. I was able to get varying degrees of shading from extremely light, small lines to dark, fat lines. I did draw in Landscape mode and specifically targeted the Start Button on the right bevel. I also purposely added extra weight and drag to see if it would kick me out of the program and back to the desktop. It never did. They didn't have Photoshop installed, which I knew they wouldn't. Would have been nice to test it out on that program specifically.

With that said, I will still wait beyond the initial release date of June 20. For me, it's imperative that Corel Painter works and works to the industry standard. It's the program that I want to use on the go. So, I will wait a few weeks and give people time to test it out and see what kind of pressure level they can get (when drivers are released that is). If it's a success and people give a glowing recommendation on it, I will easily pick up the i5 256gb 8 RAM version. Now it's just a waiting game for me............
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Mac on June 06, 2014, 12:36:57 pm
(http://www.signsorcerer.com/images/betty_devil.jpg)

Ohhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh Chiiiiiiiiiiiiiiipppppp

Buy me. You know you want me.

C'mon, why wait?


(http://www.signsorcerer.com/images/betty_devil.jpg)
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on June 06, 2014, 12:38:45 pm
Hey, they front-lined the store with some super hot chicks/sales people for that VERY reason!! They were very intent on getting people to pre-order an SP3 before you left the store.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Mac on June 06, 2014, 12:59:01 pm
Sex sells and they wanted to get you by the balls...

Didn't work, eh?
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on June 06, 2014, 01:12:38 pm
Oh, they got me by the balls....but for different intentions.  ;D
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on June 18, 2014, 09:34:30 am
Ugh. MS is starting to p*ss me off. They are a shady bunch. As you all know, I'm patiently waiting to see legit reviews for the SP3 to determine if I end up getting it for myself and MS has gone out of its way to hype that its release date is this coming June 20, 2014 (Friday). Now it has come out that anyone that is looking to get the i5 256gb version has to wait until June 30. Sure, it's only 10 days, but that is a LONG ass wait for me to get the reviews that I need. MS could / should have just been honest about it's shipping date as they were about the i7's which don't street until August 31.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on June 20, 2014, 11:03:32 pm
F*ck! I'm both jealous and frustrated at the same time tonight. So, the SP3 officially launched today and I have been subjecting myself to reading comments and forum postings from EVERYONE going on and on about how awesome their new toy is (this is where my jealousy is kicking in). But I am reading in the hopes that I can get some usable reviews, however small they may be, regarding Art Programs and gaming. But no one has posted anything of the sort (this is where my frustration is kicking in). I just want to hear that everything I need it to do, works flawlessly, so that I can pick up one for myself.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Neumatic on June 21, 2014, 05:57:41 pm
Let's see what you think of this, the Adobe Ink and Slide (http://www.theverge.com/2014/6/18/5818192/adobe-ink-and-slide-review).
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on June 21, 2014, 06:03:59 pm
I've never heard of that until just now. I don't have an iPad, but this does look very cool and the price point is damn cheap. The article mentions that it's integrated with iPad apps. So, where can I try this out at? It's an Adobe product, but I can't see them selling a competitor's product in an Apple Store.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Neumatic on June 21, 2014, 06:22:27 pm
I don't know... as it stands it's not enough yet, it's not professional level, I think it's more of a first step, they'll let the users and time figure out how to make it better.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on June 22, 2014, 11:26:16 am
For obvious reasons, I've been hitting YouTube looking for reviews of the SP3 and specific programs that I use. None have been made yet. But the one annoying thing that I hate is Unboxing videos, which is all that anyone is putting up right now. Seriously, why the f*ck does EVERYONE think to do this? Ooooohhhh. Lookie me pull this out of the box! Oooooooooooooooohhhhhh, lookie me show you the front side of the tablet! Ooooooohhhhh, lookie me show off the kickstand! Seriously, f*ck off with your unboxing videos! They are completely worthless, useless and unnecessary!

UGH!
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Mac on June 22, 2014, 04:44:02 pm
You tell 'em Chip. I agree.

It's just another one of those things... Look at me. "This s hit is important. I'm sure it is. It has to be. Every little thing I do should not only documented, but others need to see this too."
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on June 23, 2014, 10:58:12 am
So, I have been tracking the Bugs/Defect thread over at Windows Phone Central regarding the SP3. Naturally, it's expected there are bound to be a few hiccups along the way given that the product is getting real-world use and not some controlled environment at the lab. The one BIG thing that seems to be cropping up with most users is the overheating issues. Some say that just web browsing will cause the tablet to overheat, which is pretty pathetic. Heat ranges from lukewarm to insanely hot that you can't hold it in your hands anymore. A lot of people are complaining that even simple task (like browsing) is enough to overheat to the point that the SP3 will shut down and turn off.

Another issue that seems to be prevalent is battery life. Most are claiming that when the tablet is in Sleep Mode that the battery drain is as excessive as 50%-75%. Not cool. This is why I NEVER buy any new electronic device on the roll-out date. Why anyone else continues to fork over their hard-earned cash for a product that hasn't worked out any of the bugs is mind boggling. The heat issue is a big concern of mine given how much I plan on working with the tablet. I wonder how they can fix this problem. Would a Firmware fix this? I'm guessing that for something like this is going to require a Factory Refresh. It sucks that I'm having to worry about this kind of sh*t instead of whether or not the programs I use will work. Ack!!
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Mac on June 23, 2014, 11:51:14 am
Yea, I typically don't buy first run products either. Let the other suckers, er people be the guinea pigs
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on June 23, 2014, 05:06:04 pm
Microsoft Surface Pro 3 In depth Review (MobileTechReview)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xfpl5V7DMl4&list=PLp2e7UfInEgmB-5r4rtQOEsq-H-mNmQhk&index=21


I've been waiting patiently for MobileTechReview to come out with their video. They've always done a good job in picking every important thing apart and this one is no exception. They even show off 3 Programs that I use (ArtRage, Photoshop and Corel Painter). Unfortunately, Painter is kind of hit or miss until they can come out with better WinTab drivers. But what I've seen in this video, including Manga Studio does leave me feeling more confident about picking up a SP3 for myself. Just have to wait and see what is done about the overheating issues. Jump to the 18:17 minute mark for the program demonstrations if you're interested.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on July 08, 2014, 09:53:03 pm
Laptop and Tablet Pen Primer: Wacom, N-Trig, Synaptics and Capacitive Pens Explained and Compared

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t7hBTyGOjgs&list=PLp2e7UfInEgmB-5r4rtQOEsq-H-mNmQhk&index=11

Really cool that Lisa did a video showing all the go-to drawing tablets for 2014. Would have been better had she showed off some of the different art programs to see how the drivers work. Beggars can't be choosers. A must-watch video for those looking to get their own digital sketchbook.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Neumatic on September 09, 2014, 05:24:21 pm
Well, I'm really cheesed that Apple has killed the iPod Classic.  I mean, I love mine!  I don't want to pick a couple songs off iTunes that I have on me, I like having all my music organized and available to me at a moment's notice when I'm out on a walk, or doing work around the house, or in the car.  It's not like the iPhone has ANYTHING comparable in hard drive size, they don't go beyond what... 32 gigs?  And that's expensive.  AND the giant touchscreen saps so much power.

And is there really anywhere else that makes comparable MP3 players?  I haven't heard of any.  I just checked the Walkman out and it's 8 gigs.  Screw that.

I guess I'd better buy a Classic or two if I see one while I can, insure myself for the day when my current (and relatively old) iPod goes kaput.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on September 09, 2014, 05:36:28 pm
Was there an announcement today that they are discontinuing the iPod Classic? Did they give a legitimate reason why if they did?
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Neumatic on September 09, 2014, 06:44:23 pm
I think it's because more people are buying the smaller ones, the shuffles, etc, and using spotify and stuff like that on their phones.  Screw those people.  Just like the laptop can't entirely replace the desktop computer, nanos and phones can't replace the iPod.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on September 09, 2014, 07:15:30 pm
You mentioned that you have hearing issues. Just curious as to how loud the iPod can get. My hearing isn't what it use to be, especially with the amount of concerts I've attended over the years, not to mention 12 hour jam sessions on the guitar. It takes its toll. So, does the volume make up for any hearing problems?
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Neumatic on September 09, 2014, 09:22:46 pm
I've had people around me tell me to turn it down while wearing BOSE noise-cancelling headphones.  Trust me, the iPod is plenty loud.  AND you can amp up the volume even more in iTunes.

What do you use to listen to music currently?
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on September 09, 2014, 09:25:42 pm
Combination of everything: CDs, MP3, Vinyl and Cassettes. And then there is Pandora for both Online as well as Roku.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Neumatic on September 09, 2014, 10:20:52 pm
I use my iPod every freakin' day.  It is the device that I'd been waiting for since I was a kid, carrying that old walkman with the ruddy bag full of personally recorded, poorly-labeled cassettes, from when I was wee until I was in high school, switching (sometimes) to a discman for CDs... my best friend in high school had a Minidisc player/recorder that caught my attention, the idea that you could record with it or transfer computer files to it and not wear down tape appealed to me.  Now I have all my cassette tapes and CDs from my youth in one place, taking up a fraction of the available space, tons of new music, audiobooks, podcasts, etc... all in my pocket.  And the iPod lasts a LONG time, I've only ever owned two and I feel like I've had it forever.  I don't know how much longer my current one is going to last, but I don't want that to end.  And there's nothing around that's an acceptable replacement for it yet.  Maybe after the lifetime of another iPod Classic there might be, but for now... nope.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on September 10, 2014, 03:51:39 am
Time to hit eBay and get a backup. I just may do the same thing, although it technically wouldn't be a backup for me. It would be a 'first-up'. What's the largest storage capacity they have?
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Neumatic on September 10, 2014, 12:01:32 pm
I think you can still get them at stores (I think they're ten bucks off at Best Buy).  I would rather get a new one from a trusted company than take my chances with resellers.  And the largest capacity is 160 gigs.  There is someone on eBay (I don't know who) who upgrades the hard drives to 240 gigs or more, but again... trust.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on September 10, 2014, 12:25:55 pm
I Buy and Sell a lot on eBay. As long as you buy from someone that has close to 100% Positive feedback and numerous sales indicating they are a Top Rated Seller, you are fine. Besides that, you have a 45 day return policy to cover any problems, in spite of sellers that say they don't offer returns. Doesn't matter. You are covered by eBay. So, buying an iPod off eBay isn't as nerve wracking as it would have been if this was my first time on eBay.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Mac on September 10, 2014, 12:47:58 pm
Quote
I Buy and Sell a lot on eBay. As long as you buy from someone that has close to 100% Positive feedback and numerous sales indicating they are a Top Rated Seller, you are fine. Besides that, you have a 45 day return policy to cover any problems, in spite of sellers that say they don't offer returns. Doesn't matter. You are covered by eBay. So, buying an iPod off eBay isn't as nerve wracking as it would have been if this was my first time on eBay.

I would add, that the seller has a deep history. In other words, the sellers numbers are high on quantity.

I'm just going by my recent experience (Amazon 3rd party seller). Did have a good rating, but did not notice at the time, they only sold a few things. (http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i266/Chiprocks1/Smilies/0%20All%20Smilies/slappingfaceoverandover.gif)

Gawd Mac, you freakin' eediot
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Neumatic on September 10, 2014, 12:52:42 pm
The current Best Buy price is $250.  I was telling my mom about that (she also loves her Classic) and we figure our Classics have lasted about five years (and that's conservative).  That's fifty bucks a year and I use mine every single day.  That's a better deal than a computer and a TV, AND you're paying for the convenience of not having to manage your iTunes all the time to swap out the music in a little device.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Neumatic on September 12, 2014, 03:31:34 pm
Well, Apple recalled all their iPods still in the store, and the price for a brand new iPod on Amazon from second-hand sellers is already approaching five hundred god damn dollars.  Which is insane, given how freakin' cheap the iPod actually was to build.  You gotta figure Apple is going to have a gross of these things, what are they going to do with them!?  They can't take them apart for parts because that's how they were made in the first place, out of tons of spare parts.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Neumatic on September 12, 2014, 04:26:22 pm
Okay, update: I bit the bullet and bought a new iPod off Amazon at the inflated price of $399 (thank god I got a birthday check two weeks ago) because... well, I refuse to buy an "acceptable" used iPod at original retail price and I definitely want a replacement for when my current one bites the dust.  Ideally, that will be years down the line and my new untouched iPod will keep (maybe I should put it in the fridge-- isn't that what you're supposed to do?), but it also means that I'd eventually have a dead iPod to tinker with-- to try and swap out the hard drive, battery, and what have you and bring back from the dead.  There are instructions on line on how to do it, but I don't want my music future to rest on that.

I imagine in the upcoming years, the demand for a music player like this will be enough that maybe a little cottage industry might pop up, making high-capacity MP3 players (someone on eBay already makes iPods with 240 gigs of space) to fill the void.  Like how you can get these new consoles that play old Nintendo, SNES and Genesis games.  That would be great.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on September 12, 2014, 05:09:36 pm
Congrats on at least securing a backup. As for me, I will definitely be on the lookout on eBay, but I will no way pay that kind of money. I got more pressing needs (tablet that I can use for art, blah blah blah, you already know my issues with that). I will be checking on eBay and just wait it out for the time being. Right now people are hording and trying to flip them at bloated prices. Those prices will eventually fall and if I find the right deal, I will for sure pull the trigger.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Neumatic on September 12, 2014, 05:24:50 pm
And to be fair, this is a lifestyle that is clearly difficult to part with.  So you're pretty lucky you don't have to.

I'm definitely hoping that the demand for these players might lead to some interesting open-source homebrew projects in a couple of years.  I think about the possibilities of removable SD cards, replacable batteries, stylish interface skins, etc... now that we've got 3D printing, people can design their own cases (something I'm sure was holding back the homebrew portable market).  We could be on the verge of something real neat.  I'm actually inspired to draw a couple concepts.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on October 13, 2014, 08:32:00 am
The Surface Pro 4 will come in the same physical dimensions as the Surface Pro 3 (http://www.winbeta.org/news/surface-pro-4-will-come-same-physical-dimensions-surface-pro-3)

I am a bit surprised that the rumor (take it with a grain of salt) has the Surface Pro 4 coming in the first quarter of 2015. I was expecting at least a full calendar year before the newest one to hit the stores. It remains to be seen if this will in fact come with the much sought after Broadwell Chip from Intel (very likely). I was expecting their to be a factory refresh, which was what I was waiting for given the overheating issues of SP3. So, with the first quarter right around the corner, I will just put a pin in getting any kind of Surface Pro until then. As for the next iterations of Surface Pro, even though I don't own one, I have played with the SP3 a few times in stores and really like the size. It's the perfect size out of them all so I am happy they are sticking with the same dimensions for the SP4.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on January 10, 2015, 09:52:44 am
Lenovo YOGA Tablet 2 with AnyPen

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e6PVuXo4HAM&list=PLp2e7UfInEgmB-5r4rtQOEsq-H-mNmQhk&index=27

Even though they are hyping this up as something "revolutionary" with AnyPen, it really isn't. Sure, you can "now draw with a fork", but the biggest and most vital thing missing is Pen Pressure Sensitivity technology. All the line weight remains the same.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Neumatic on January 10, 2015, 12:04:06 pm
The HP Sprout.  Tablet, touchscreen, 3D scanner, holy sh*t holy sh*t HOLY SH*T!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oMeQCtettlQ
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Mac on January 10, 2015, 01:45:55 pm
That was interesting.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on February 12, 2015, 08:29:06 am
Microsoft reportedly acquires N-trig, makers of the Surface Pro 3 pen (http://www.theverge.com/2015/2/12/8024975/microsoft-acquires-n-trig-rumor)



From the outside looking in, this just seems like another acquisition for Microsoft and nothing more. But the optimistic side of me has MS pouring money into the resources needed to advance the technology even further than what they currently have and really put a serious dent in Wacom's market share. Until they decide to tip the scale in their favor, N-Trig will always be considered the ugly step-child of the two when it comes to artists abroad.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on April 09, 2015, 10:16:45 am
Microsoft Surface Pro 4 Release Date Nears As Mass Production Set To Begin June 2015 (http://au.ibtimes.com/microsoft-surface-pro-4-release-date-nears-mass-production-set-begin-june-2015-1437687)



Last year when talk of SP4 started to heat up, I was led to believe that we would be getting a release sometime in February. Obviously that has come and gone, which I found disappointing as I have been waiting patiently for it. But with recent news that it would come with the new Windows 10 OS, it kinda makes sense that they are rolling it out mid summer. I can wait a bit longer. Hopefully it's what I want this time around.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on September 10, 2015, 08:44:35 am
Apple Pencil is a stylus for your iPad

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sChqOxD5XQQ


Well, my enthusiasm for this product just went out the window. The idea of Apple and Windows competing against each other is a win-win for consumers because it would invariably lower the cost as they try to lure buyers to their product. But now I'm hearing that this 'Apple Pencil' will cost $800 MSRP (internet hearsay). Seriously, whoever the f*ck would buy a pencil at that price is a rube. Even if the price turns out to be something like $100 or whatever, that's STILL too much for what is nothing more than an accessory. Talk about a company shooting itself in the foot.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Mac on September 10, 2015, 10:07:08 am
I dunno man... They have a history of selling their products at a ridiculous price and people lining up to get them... Look at the iWatch.... not that I am or ever be interested, but I was blown away at the prices of these sonzabit*ches. And that goes for many, many of their other products. This  'pencil' doesn't make me flinch one bit. It's becoming the norm.

If I remember one of my marketing classes from ions ago, pricing is a science in psychology. Throwing an expensive price on object sometimes maintains that 'desire' to want it. Throw a low price on it and it becomes a throw away item and interest fades.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Neumatic on September 10, 2015, 12:04:59 pm
800 for a pencil?  You heard WAY wrong, dude.  The pencil is 99, tops, and that's becuase it's not a "dumb" stylus like everyone else makes, but it has stuff in it so it's far more precise with things like pressure, tilt, and so on.  It's like a tiny version of the Wiimote.  My only real issue with it is that there's only one kind, and we artists are a particular lot.

I'm sure Mac is right about the pricing, I don't know how much went into designing this thing, but I imagine we're paying R&D costs as well as machine costs, plus the stylus isn't for everyone, neither is this iPad.  It's literally a "pro" unit, smaller market share so higher cost per unit.

And all the joking about how Apple made an about face on the stylus?  They were right at the time.  Styluses for phones sucked and still suck. Just push what you want.  Easy.  The iPads have always had this.  BUT something like this, with a bigger screen that can pack in MORE detail, that artists like Chip and myself would want to use, we want a stylus and I'm sure Apple figured out there's enough demand to be worth it.  Circumstances fvcking CHANGE, and what's true for one product isn't true for another.

I hear so much b1tcing about how Apple stole the idea for this iPad from Microsoft, as if everyone doesn't draw inspiration from everyone else all the time (or that Steve Jobs hadn't said "we're ruthless about stealing good ideas when we see them), but really this is such low-hanigng fruit I'm surprised that it took this long for this thing to exist.  I do wish this thing was more distinctive, though.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Mac on September 10, 2015, 03:19:16 pm
That will be the engineered for phase two. Look, they've already have those roll outs thought through.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on October 06, 2015, 08:53:56 am
Currently watching the Microsoft Live Event for one reason and that of course is Surface Pro 4. They just got finished announcing the SP4 and it looks amazing with a lot of huge upgrades. This in itself sold me on it. They followed it up by announcing the Surface Book by playing a short trailer show this off to be a full-on Laptop with this fulcrum hinge, which looked great. But this wasn't something I want or needed as my primary goal was to get a tablet to do art on. They walk through everything the Laptop can provide and it was a convincing sell....but still something I didn't need given the SP4 is what I was after. This is where I thought the Surface Book announcement ended.

WRONG!

They replayed the full, extended Surface Book Trailer to reveal that this is.....also a tablet. In that moment my jaw dropped. Everything the SP4 is, is also in the Surface Book and more. I can't wait to get my hands on both products to try these out. Comes out on October 26, 2015. The SP4 starts at $899 and the Surface Book starts at $1499. I will post the specs and upgrades when they are made available. Biggest news off the top of my head is that it comes with 16gb of RAM and up to 1TB of internal storage and 1024 of pressure sensitivity. Yowzza!!  Man, I'm so excited.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on October 06, 2015, 08:58:44 am
Microsoft Surface Book - Trailer

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cyRRFLDRnto

The hinge is what fooled me into believing this was a one-piece laptop. When it's pulled apart, totally caught me off guard....with a big goofy grin in place.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on October 06, 2015, 09:14:54 am
Microsoft Surface Pro 4 announced with new Surface Pen, starts at $899 (http://www.theverge.com/2015/10/6/9460651/microsoft-surface-pro-4-tablet-announced-specs-price-release-date)

A complete rundown of the spec upgrades for SP4.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on October 06, 2015, 09:16:24 am
Microsoft announces Surface Book laptop with 13.5-inch display starting at $1,499 (http://www.theverge.com/2015/10/6/9454051/microsoft-surface-laptop-announced-specs-price-release-date)

A complete rundown of the specs for Surface Book.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on October 06, 2015, 10:02:17 am
Microsoft reveals first-ever laptop, Surface Book

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cYk0Nlf9OnI

Microsoft Surface Book turns into a clipboard

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VkSwkxh9F_M
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on October 06, 2015, 10:37:02 am
Surface Book Prices

128GB / Core Intel i5 - 8GB - $1,499.00

256GB / Core Intel i5 - 8GB - $1,699.00

256GB / Core Intel i5 - 8GB / dGPU - $1,899.00

256GB / Core Intel i7 - 8GB / dGPU - $2,099.00

512GB / Core Intel i7 - 16GB / dGPU - $2,699.00

Wow, talk about a MASSIVE price jump from 256gb to 512gb. I didn't see anything about the 1 TB. I'm thinking the 1 TB is only for the Surface Pro 4.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on October 09, 2015, 01:20:17 pm
So, I called my local Microsoft Store to see if they had any floor models of the Surface Book and the Surface Pro 4. They do. But.....they only have one each per store. I ask the customer service guy if it was crowded. He said it was. How crowded is it I ask. He said too many people there jockeying to get their hands on it. Sigh. He said there was something like 20 people per device. I had every intention of going out there. But I'm not gonna waste my time dealing with pushy people. It's only going to get worst as the day goes on as the Mall starts filling up. I will to go in a couple of days and get there as the store opens. I really want to check this out for myself. I'm already leaning on getting the Surface Book, but I want to make sure it's everything and more that it's being touted as. You guys have a Microsoft Store nearby?
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on October 12, 2015, 11:17:16 am
I just got back from the Microsoft Store and spending some quality time with both the Surface Pro 4 and the Surface Book. As an artist and gamer, I think I've pretty much eliminated the SP4 from the list and will just get the Surface Book. Now it's a question of which version I want to spend money on. I won't be buying it on release day and will wait to hear from those that actually bought it and have put up reviews on YouTube. I need to hear about any issues the Book itself may have and if there is a middle ground that I can get spec wise that is equal to that of the high end version. If there isn't that much performance improvement between those, then I would feel very comfortable getting the mid-level version and save $800.

As for my in-store review, I really like the Book. The keyboard is great and types way better than the SP3. Yeah, I did end up buying the Surface 3 (not the Pro version). I picked up the lighter version (in Specs and Price) as a placeholder until I arrived at this moment. I've had plenty of time with my Surface 3 and it is a great little machine. Drawing on the tablet has been great. Feels very natural. So, I was very curious to try out using the Pen on the Book this morning and it feels waaaaaaaaay different than what I'm use to. I had heard this new Pen Nib with the Gorilla Glass does more to mimic real-life Pen usage and that perception is 100% spot on. There was plenty of drag while drawing that it immediately made the Surface 3 insanely slick by comparison. If you want the real thing or as something as close to the real thing not involving actual paper, the Surface Book is it.

The design looks very sleek and stylish. The hinge is crazy cool. Flipping the Tablet and putting it into canvas mode (laying on top of the keyboard) was easy and more importantly, comfortable. I will say that the device in laptop mode does feel heavy compared to my Surface 3 usage. It will take some time to get use to the weight of the Surface Book. I think it's around 3lbs, which isn't bad for the device in hand. I didn't get to swap put the Pen Nibs as they didn't have any on hand. There ya have it. Now it's just a waiting game for the reviews to come out......

The one question that I needed answered when I walk into the store was about Keyboard Shortcuts. As you guys know, when you use programs like Photoshop (or any program for that matter), they come with Keyboard Shortcuts. When the Tablet has been reversed and turned around and put into canvas mode, the tablet itself is physically laying flat on the Keyboard with no access to it. They suggested that I'd use the on screen keyboard. I explained that this wasn't an option because it would take up half the screen and become counterproductive using Photoshop or whatever other program I would use. I ask if using a blue tooth keyboard would be an option and he said that would work with no conflicting issues. I didn't get to try that out for myself....but I believe him. So, that's a good sign for me.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Mac on October 12, 2015, 12:08:52 pm
Buy the best you can get  ;D
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on October 12, 2015, 12:40:23 pm
 ;)
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on October 17, 2015, 02:36:15 pm
Microsoft Opens Pre-Orders For 1TB Surface Book, Ships Late January (https://www.thurrott.com/mobile/microsoft-surface/6994/microsoft-opens-pre-orders-for-1tb-surface-book-ships-late-january)



Good Lord!!!! As much as I want to get a 1 TB Surface Book, there is no way in hell I'm spending $3199 for one. The price is ridiculous. This is a non-starter for me. I'll stick to one of their "cheaper" models. Unfortunately, the first wave have all been sold out. The other thing of note is that all the pre-orders for those that got one will have to wait up to 8 weeks after the proposed October 26 release day. So, for those that are expecting to get their shiny new toy in little over a week are going to be super p*ssed.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on October 22, 2015, 11:09:38 am
Comic book artist Dan Parent test-drives the Surface Book

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iAWbEpGlpYU


CNET dropped the ball here with this "test". For starters, why use One Note to draw on? That's not a drawing app and will not do the test justice. Also, who draws like that? Why was he afraid to rest his hand against the screen? There is palm rejection, which I tested out at the store and it's good. Also, I find it humorous that everyone always uses the same "it's not wacom". No sh*t. With that said, it's still fun to see people doing art on the Surface Book. Looking forward to getting mine and yes, I'll do my own video test and post here.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on October 27, 2015, 02:36:29 pm
Microsoft Surface Book Hit With Early Problems Already (http://www.forbes.com/sites/theopriestley/2015/10/27/microsoft-surface-book-hit-with-early-problems-already/)

This is why I NEVER buy any electronic product on release day. I'm glad I stayed firmed. It's a bummer people are having so many problems with their new Surface Books. Sigh. I haven't heard anything bad with the Surface Pro 4 though, which is a good thing of course.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Neumatic on November 11, 2015, 07:31:40 pm
The Wall Stree tJournal's review of the iPad Pro (http://www.wsj.com/articles/ipad-pro-review-jack-of-all-trades-master-of-most-1447243200)... they really love the stylus.  Better and more natural than using the Surface AND Wacom, apparently.  I'll be interested to try that.

The review is part of Digg's roundup of iPad Pro reviews (http://digg.com/2015/ipad-pro-review).  Definitely confirming what I knew and what a lot of people apparently couldn't wrap their heads around: it's for POWER users.  Hence, you know, the name PRO.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on November 11, 2015, 07:55:33 pm
With the disaster that is the Surface Book (too many people with too many issues forcing them to returning it for a full refund), I will be checking out the iPad Pro for myself. Gonna try and hit the Apple Store some time this week or next. Very disappointed with what became of the Surface Book. Sigh.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Neumatic on November 11, 2015, 09:26:22 pm
I know you are, dude, and as much of an Apple fan as I am, it does suck that you couldn't get what you wanted.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on November 11, 2015, 10:03:25 pm
I just checked out a couple of Review videos on YouTube for the iPad Pro and I don't think it's for me. That "kickstand" is awful and would be a bone of contention for me. I will still go check it out as I want to see what their pen feels like as well as the other features. But that keyboard thingy is just something I don't want to deal with and it looks like it was an afterthought which is sad to see given how great the Surface Keyboard has been and something Apple should have been aiming to match. F*ck, why did Microsoft have to deliver such a f*cked up product, one that should be lauded and not ridiculed. Hey, there is still the Surface Pro 4 which doesn't seem to have the same problems. I see myself running between the Apple Store and the Microsoft Store for an hour. Yes, the mall that I go to literally has them 10 seconds from each other. You walk out of one store, walk 10 seconds to the other.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Neumatic on November 11, 2015, 10:50:21 pm
It's the first iPad Pro too, I figure plenty of your issues will be addressed when the second version comes out (you don't buy the first release of things anyway, right?)
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on November 12, 2015, 05:29:21 am
(you don't buy the first release of things anyway, right?)

Never. I can wait for a second generation. Besides, I still have my Surface 3 to keep me company and hopefully in the time it takes for the 2nd Gen iPad Pro to come out, maybe the problems plaguing the Surface Book will have been fixed. I have to imagine that the factory refresh will be worlds better than what's on the store shelves right now. Last night I read a post by a customer that took his Surface Book back to the Microsoft Store for his full refund and the guy working there ask him why he was returning it. The customer goes to one of the display models and pulls up one of the programs he was using and promptly crashes the display model. He then goes to the next display model and does the same thing....and then the next. He said that all the employees were freaking out when this happened. It's sh*t like this that shouldn't be happening to a company and product that's suppose to be the industry leader.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on November 13, 2015, 03:00:21 pm
iPad pro and apple pencil and procreate sketch test

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZxgJCerVH8w

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6mbzrlYcLNU

You can just tell how good the pencil is for the iPad Pro without even having to try it out personally.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Neumatic on November 13, 2015, 03:25:59 pm
That is pretty amazing.  Kinda glad I don't have the scratch to blow on something like that, I don't want to face the possibility of not drawing on pencil and paper anymore.  I'll leave that up to future me to figure out.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on November 15, 2015, 05:43:24 pm
Drawing on the Surface Pro 4: Full Review

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3TZm6SaoZuc&list=PLp2e7UfInEgmB-5r4rtQOEsq-H-mNmQhk&index=16

I follow this guy on YouTube so I was very much looking forward to his review. With everything that has happened with the Surface Book, it looks like SP4 is the way to go as there isn't a whole lot of difference between the two, minus the problems that SB has. Very encouraged to hear that he likes the SP4 for art and that it's a big step up from the Surface Pro 3 line.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on November 18, 2015, 03:55:19 pm
I've been reading a lot of reviews for the iPad Pro and overwhelmingly, it's being ripped to shreds as inferior to the Surface Pro line.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Neumatic on November 19, 2015, 04:02:29 pm
I played with the iPad Pro today... loved it.  It really felt like I was using my own pen, I didn't have much range because the thing was tethered to the table but I managed to do a rather intricate drawing of the mall interior through the window and I couldn't have done it better if I had done it on paper and ink.  Although instead of just leaving it, I showed it to some of the people that worked there and they loved it, and wanted to save it... of course, the demo version of the app doesn't let you do that, so we wound up accidentally deleting it immediately.

But I later tried an app on the Surface Pro... ugh, it barely responded to the touch of the pen on the screen.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on November 19, 2015, 05:16:33 pm
What program were you using on the Surface? I've played around with it at a few different stores and I've had nothing but great experiences when drawing on it. It was good enough for me to want to buy it on the spot. But with the issues it's having from home users, I'm still cautious until the next major patch fixes the problem. I think they've had 2 or 3 patches that have fixed some of the problems but have created new ones. Until I hear that all major problems have been fixed, I will just have to remain on the sideline and wait.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Neumatic on December 26, 2015, 04:18:07 pm
So I got a gift certificate for the amount that an iPad Pro with a lot of storage costs, so... dilemma solved, right?  Well, not quite.  I still have my "old" iPad, which I don't think is even a year old.  Now, I THINK I can have my old iPad data duped into a new one, like a clone.  That's what back-ups are for, right?  Well, I have a lot of PDFed books on my current iPad, and it's such a great reading size, I don't know how comfortable I'll be reading on a bigger size.  Plus, the iPad Pro is so big, I don't know where I could put it.

I suppose I could have both, it does seem a bit extravagant (I'm not a particularly extravagant individual), but I suppose you can make a case for different tools for different uses, my current iPad for reading and leisure and the pro for "work."

The big crunch is that I got invited to Sicily next year, so I'm thinking "how much/little do I need to take?"  I suppose I could read books on a bigger screen if it was just for a week, and the storage space would work nice for vacation photos and videos... and the obvious use, drawing on a trip, I can see that but at the same time, I'm so used to "keep it simple" that I'd feel safer brining a sketchbook and some pens.  I SUPPOSE I can take that along in case of emergencies.

On top of that, while I suppose I COULD type on a screen, it's not as quick or intuitive as typing on a proper keyboard... plus I don't know how to transfer notes out of the iPad and into my computer where I can USE them.

I also don't know how long one of those things can hold a charge... or how long the plane trip IS from the US to Sicily and all the stops in between.

Plus web browsing on the iPad... well, the plug-ins are different, pages display differently, there's no adblock or trackers yet, and my gmail app stopped working right ages ago, so that's not acceptable.

I think it may become a thing of taking my laptop for work in the hotel room and plane, and my iPad for travelling about.  But combine that with my phone (since I can't make calls on my iPad) and my iPod cause that's got everything... that's a TON of electronics to take with me, one more than usual.

I dunno... just a lot of sh1t to consider and weigh before I make any sort of move.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on December 26, 2015, 06:50:49 pm
I'd keep both, buy the iPad Pro and then rub it in my face.  :P Definitely looking forward to your eventual review should you get the Pro.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Neumatic on December 26, 2015, 07:50:49 pm
My dad also gifted me an iPad Pro case, which I thought was presumptuous (I'm real particular about these kinds of things), but it wound up being nice because it gives me a frame of reference to the size of the thing.  It would take up as much space as my clipboard, while the current iPad is the size of a hardcover book, so it fits on top of my pile of books, whereas I don't have a dedicated place to put my clipboard, it just goes wherever).  I did notice that the screen size is JUST right to display a comic book page, so that's a plus, but I read comic books on my current one no problem, the slightly smaller size is no big deal.  But pocket books, of which I have a couple, well, they could display as either 200% size, which would be weird, or two pages per screen, which would be like looking at galleys, which would be fine but it means keeping those blank pages in maybe, plus I don't know if/when the Kindle App would ever allow for that...

The real problem isn't just the size, it's that the sizes are so intentionally chosen.  The size of the iPad isn't random, it's specific, the work that they do to find the right size, right resolution... everything's precise, so now there's a new standard and that's also pretty much perfect but also noticeably different... it just makes making the decision harder, it's not like picking between a Honda and a Toyota, it's picking between a MBW or a Mercedes.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on December 26, 2015, 08:02:36 pm
... it just makes making the decision harder, it's not like picking between a Honda and a Toyota, it's picking between a MBW or a Mercedes.

Welcome to my world.  ;D
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Mac on December 27, 2015, 07:35:37 am
Damn you choices... Damn you






 ;)
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Neumatic on December 31, 2015, 02:33:26 pm
In addition to eventually getting an iPad Pro, I'm looking at this app called FilmicPro (http://www.filmicpro.com) which is like a cinematography app, it was used to make the movie Tangerine and I would love to play with it.  Although I'm starting to think that the app might need a lens adapter in order to work right (and those cost money) and I don't really see any for the iPad, that can be an issue (my iPhone is too old and has too little storage to allow for something like that).
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on December 31, 2015, 03:00:09 pm
Never heard of it. Is it exclusive to iPads?
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Neumatic on December 31, 2015, 03:33:28 pm
I'm more worried that it's more exclusive for iPhones... which I guess makes sense, iPhones are more portable and this is meant to be taking advantage of that.  But my iPhone is old (4s) and has little storage, my iPad would be new and hefty with empty space.

I'm really thinking about my trip this year... on one of the last trips, my brother, sister and I were stranded at the airport and I thought "we should have made a short movie together while we were waiting!"  Now we could if we wanted, in a viable picture quality.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Neumatic on January 29, 2016, 08:36:50 pm
Article in The New Republic about why the iPad is going extinct (https://newrepublic.com/article/128577/ipad-going-extinct), which I thought was interesting.  I definitely think that hybrid laptop/tablets are the future, but I still worry that it will lead to sh1ttier laptops instead of more enhanced tablets.  I like having a laptop that's as powerful as a desktop b/c I can take it anywhere without having a lack in ability.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on January 29, 2016, 08:54:49 pm
I like the idea of hybrids because of the "two birds with one stone" mentality it offers. But as you pointed out, it's never going to match a full-on Laptop when it comes to power. At least not yet anyway. I think they are heading in the right direction and we will get those sooner, rather than later. The problem is obviously going to be the price and that in itself delays me buying stuff like this, especially when I'm tight with my money. FYI, I've all but given up on the Surface Book. Been tracking reviews and watching a lot of YouTube videos and it's just not there for what I need. I'll just stick with my Surface 3 and just wait for the next generation of Surface Book and/or Surface 5.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Mac on January 30, 2016, 05:24:20 am
What I didn't read is how well the IPad is built. Meaning iPad folks unlike iPhone folks are keepin their equipment for a much longer time. Saturation has hit and the turn around has stagnated. I would think that would definitely have an effect on numbers and expectations. For instance, if Apple and investors calculate how Ellen the iWatch will sell... And it doesn't, it's reported as a loss (or flop). We all know neither are true when it sells well. So this article seems to me to want to grap your attention with the title and give an opinion on little info.


I've had my iPad now going on five years. I saw no major reason to upgrade. I wouldn't mind getting a lighter version, but it's not worth it at this time. In fact, I'll probably hold onto this until it dies.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Neumatic on February 18, 2016, 04:30:05 pm
I finally got that iPad Pro that was gifted to me at X-mas.  Did I mention that?  Been trying it out.  Like it.  REALLY like it for reading comic books.  Scripts are almost 100% size, though to me that's a bit too big (my eyesight is too good for that, I used to print them at 60-80% size way back in the day).  The drawing is cool (the Adobe apps are free!), but I have to learn how to paint and colour again, it's been so long.

Anyway, I just downloaded Duet, which is this app that turns your iPad into a second screen for your Mac or laptop.  So once I put Daisy away, I'll hook it up and play around with it.  The big hope?  Real Photoshop with the Apple Pencil.  That would be freakin' dope.  We shall see.  The second hope is that I can run Netflix and auto-screencap it on one side, leaving me the other screen to type out my notes.  That's what I've been wanting for a long time.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on February 18, 2016, 04:34:28 pm
Sweet! Definitely let us know how it handles when it comes to art: Drawing, Coloring, etc....This is what I'm looking forward to hearing from you on this.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Neumatic on February 18, 2016, 05:15:19 pm
Oh man, the Apple Pencil is a dream.  The only thing that gets me, and this just shows how hard I focus, is that there's that little bit of glass separating the tip from the pixel.  But it has to be there, no way around it.

But honestly, outside of last night, I haven't been in a draw-y mood recently so I haven't bene able to really gauge it.  But I will say that the Abobe apps are so easy to use, it's just so instinctual (more so than Photoshop or anything), the interface is so simple and easy to use... I love it.  The only issue is that there's no things like teardroppers so I can't recreate the colour I just used if I switch, that kind of thing.  I would LOVE to see a future Photoshop type app that married these two together: instinctive, minimal OS combined with a sh1t-ton of tools.

I can take video with one app, so I can record my drawing, but I don't know how to do that on my iPad as a whole.  I'm sure there's an app or something somewhere.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on February 18, 2016, 06:18:38 pm
Would love to see you drawing via video.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Neumatic on February 18, 2016, 06:22:44 pm
I've never drawn on video before.  I do have a Youtube channel, in theory (I haven't posted anything).  Could be interesting.  But I would have to do voiceover as well, and I don't know exactly how to do that yet.  I might be able to figure it out, though.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on February 18, 2016, 08:16:19 pm
Well, there are two ways to go about recording video. If you do it with a Camera over your shoulder, that's the obvious way, but a lot has to go into that to make sure your camera is set up the correct way, lighting, etc.... But there is also Twitch that does it for you. If you can run Twitch on your device, using their OBS software, it will record the feed direct from your iPad. If you want to been seen while drawing (that little box in the corner as you see in most gaming videos), you can add that option via Twitch as well. I'm assuming your iPad comes with a video camera, you're covered there. If you have a standalone mic and it's hooked up to your ipad, you can record your voice-over that way. But your iPad should have a built in mic if you have a videao camera.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Neumatic on February 18, 2016, 09:08:14 pm
Started playing around with it... dude, this thing is DOPE.  It took me a few minutes to find the right configuration, but yes, the Apple Pencil works on it.. .and the display is so tight, it's like a full size iMac monitor, 27 inches or so shrunk down.  The iPad, despite being smaller than my laptop screen, has a higher resolution.   Precision work is going to be tricky, but otherwise, so far so good.

I can mirror my screen with it, too, so that's pretty cool.  I'll probably be using that for Photoshop work in the future.  And if this thing didn't need the cable tether...

So... Duet Display (http://www.duetdisplay.com/?utm_source=digg&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=startups_we_digg_feb&v=2).  15 bucks on the App Store.  Could be worth it.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on February 18, 2016, 10:17:47 pm
Very cool.  :)
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on March 04, 2016, 03:24:48 pm
Fire tablets drop encryption, are less secure (CNET Update)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1OwXJsdgy-w

Not that this move is going to affect me directly as I don't own a Fire Tablet, nor would I ever. But WTF are they thinking in doing this? DUMB!
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on April 17, 2016, 09:59:17 am
Joy Factory Magconnect Clamp Mount For Surface Pro, iPad Pro & more

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_5vByoE8atU

This looks pretty cool and something I'm considering for myself. It's a bit pricey. So I will have to do more research on this.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on April 19, 2016, 10:29:17 pm
Customize Your Own Skin for Surface Pro 4 Using Amazon

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qbDBg85hNPY

Now this is f*cking awesome! I have a few images that I would totally get made for my Surface. What makes this a great addition is that you can use your own images instead of pre-existing ones. You can test out what your skin will look like here (http://www.amazon.com/Customize-Sticker-Windows-Surface-Macbook/dp/B01C8OSOV2/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&keywords=surface+pro+4+case&linkCode=sl1&tag=seaongyoucha-20&linkId=e1a712a8a2697660f59010780a97dd6c). Just hit the customize button.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on July 29, 2016, 12:11:07 pm
The Triple Monitor Mega MacBook!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jwhFr5Ax3Fk

I don't own or have any MacBooks or iPads, but that's not going to stop me from marveling at this. It's only a matter of time before this becomes the norm with Window Laptops (if it's not already a thing now) as well and it's that reason that I'm stoked for something like this to make it's way to me down the road.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Mac on July 29, 2016, 06:08:49 pm
Interesting. Great start. I can see the lap top folks getting the juices flowing if they alteady have not.

I use a multi monitor at work. At home, not for me. But I can see multi tasking nerds go crazy.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Neumatic on July 29, 2016, 09:13:37 pm
That's what I use!  Well, I don't have those wingy things, though that might be a smart idea in the future.  Instead, I cradle my iPad (which is in a protective cover) on an easel, that way it's at a nice angle and can place it wherever I like.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on August 19, 2016, 04:58:22 pm
Refreshed Surface Book to ditch hinge gap and Surface AIOs may get 4K displays (http://www.windowscentral.com/surface-book-2)


As with any news article touting to have "inside intel" from people within the industry and whatnot, this article is pure speculation being pushed as "legit"....to some degree. It's more for fanboys than anything of merit. Even though I know not to take everything they say 100%, there is that kid in me that wants to see the All-In-One 4k Surface Pro become a reality and I like how they already have "sizes" for 3 models.....with no proof this is even happening. Still want to see it though.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on October 26, 2016, 09:12:52 am
Introducing Microsoft Surface Studio

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BzMLA8YIgG0

Game-changer. Man, the Surface Studio gave me chills. Wacom is probably sh*tting itself right now. Yes, this is just the first iteration and is bound to have its bugs. But come on, this is amazing. I'm ready to pack my current PC in moth balls and make way for this. This is what I've been waiting for. Back at the dawn of Surface Pro 3, I said this all-in-one PC would be a reality soon and take a shot at Wacom. I just didn't expect that day to arrive this morning. But, and it's a big BUT. The sticker price is $3k. It's doable. So much to talk about and read further into.  I find the Dial fascinating and need to learn more about it.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on October 26, 2016, 09:22:42 am
Microsoft Surface Studio | App Partners

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WMklcdzcNcU

The followup Video highlighting the Sketchable app. The endless ideas racing through my head right now.......
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on October 26, 2016, 09:32:33 am
Sheesh! The $3k price is for the cheapest version!!!! What the f*ck! There are 3 different spec ranges to choose from. Go here (https://www.microsoftstore.com/store/msusa/en_US/pdp/productID.5074015900)

Surface Studio - 1TB / Intel Core i5
Release date: 12/15/2016
$2,999.00

Surface Studio - 1TB / Intel Core i7
Release date: 12/15/2016
$3,499.00

Surface Studio - 2TB / Intel Core i7
Release date: 12/15/2016
$4,199.00
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on October 26, 2016, 02:13:25 pm
Surface Book 2 - Microsoft's most powerful laptop ever

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TykY8ApbxoE

While everyone is drooling over the Surface Studio, there was another major announcement with the Surface Book 2. Not sure if this is just a refresh with a 16 hour battery upgrade. I think they are still using the same processor. Have to do some research on that for myself. Either way, this looks to be a huge step up from SB1.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on October 26, 2016, 03:53:54 pm
The Surface Studio! (https://www.penny-arcade.com/news/post/2016/10/26/the-surface-studio)



Well, that didn't take long to get real-world analysis of the Surface Studio and I'm not talking about someone spending 10 minutes at a store checking it out and just regurgitating whatever other "reviewer" is doing for their YouTube Channel. I check in over at Penny Arcade from time to time for these more in-depth reviews of the Surface and Gabe had it for over a week. Lucky bastard! He does a great job of selling the device to artist more than anything else. I'm sold.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on October 26, 2016, 08:33:07 pm
Really disappointed to hear that the Surface Studio can't handle AAA games. For something that cost that much and not to be able to play games like GTA or Gears of War on the highest setting is just wrong. Sigh. So, the reason why I have issues with this is that if it can't handle those games, how is it going to be when I want to do Video Editing or Compositing work in After Effects that are CPU intensive as well?
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on November 18, 2016, 02:09:28 pm
Tested: Microsoft Surface Studio Review

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9NhyDiiaXic

Long time subscriber to their channel, but I wasn't expecting them to do a review of the Surface Studio. They did a great job here. I actually think it's the best review for this type of product because they actually went out and got a couple of professional artists to help out. What better way to really put the Surface Studio to the test than having people that do art for a living and actually are one to use Wacom in their own work. With that said, the one thing that is keeping me at arms length, which BTW, has nothing to do with it not being a 'Gaming PC', but has to do with the fact that you can't upgrade parts. It's mentioned in passing here, but I had heard from another review where they were concerned over the idea of the PC Computer dying. Think about it, should it ever brick (and it will one day), the buyer will be f*cked. They won't be able to replace any parts. If you have a bad motherboard or a hard drive that tanks, you're sh*t out of luck. You will have to junk it all, even if the Monitor and keyboard works. That would be a huge, pricey paperweight. Can't justify paying the minimum of $3K for something that will eventually fail and who knows how long the PC would even last. I'm hoping that the Surface Studio line is a huge success because that will be more incentive for Microsoft to do different Size monitors which would drive the price down substantially. Not everyone has the table space for something so big. Not everyone wants to even work on something as big as this monitor. So, here's hoping we get different size versions of this moving forward. As of now, my money will be heading to the Surface Book 2.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on May 23, 2017, 10:10:09 am
Microsoft's latest, sleekest Surface Pro

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6732Zlw1dpc

This is a BIG surprise for me. I was not expecting this. When the Surface Laptop was announced last week, I was not interested. I didn't like the fact that they had leapfrogged over the Surface Pro line for a product I didn't want. So when that news broke, I began researching for when the Surface Pro 5 would drop and every article I came across, they all said the same thing, the earliest would be Early to Mid 2018. So yeah, this is welcome news for me today. With that said, not really liking the idea that I now have to pay an additional hundred bucks for a Pen that has always been included with the product. Seriously, WTF Microsoft! F*CK! Anyway, this is now called simply...the Surface Pro and drops mid June 2017.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on June 03, 2017, 06:26:40 am
SURFACE PRO KILLER FOR CHEAP - EVE V


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vo0nrLZ5Ew4

This is great. More legit competitors like the Eve V will eventually drive prices downward. If this is as good as it's being made out to be, Microsoft will have no choice but to start dropping their ridiculously overpriced Surface line. Yes, I'm a huge fan of the Surface and love the one I have. But the prices are a joke. You know they are tacking on the extra cost just for the Logo alone. So, I really hope that the Eve V and other competitors are successful and force the price drop sooner rather than later.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Neumatic on June 17, 2017, 04:12:53 pm
This is... well, I have issues with this kind of thing:

It's Physically Impossible oT Fix The Surface Pro (https://motherboard.vice.com/en_us/article/you-cant-open-the-microsoft-surface-laptop-without-literally-destroying-it)

As cool as sleek electronics are, I think it's ridiculous that they've gotten to the point where we can't open them up, let alone repair or upgrade them to suit our own personal tastes.  It just feels very anti-consumer to me.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on June 17, 2017, 04:29:39 pm
Kinda old news. There was a video by one of the big tech channels on YouTube that showed the step by step process of taking apart a Surface 3 however long ago that was and it was a complete mess. I totally agree with you that this shouldn't be so problematic and so limited. When I bought my Surface, I knew full well that it would be with the knowledge that I wouldn't be able to upgrade or fix in the future.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on December 13, 2017, 06:13:46 am
EVE V Tablet - Crowdsourced Surface Competitor

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FQm60PrrEJk&list=LLTVgXy5pOO9ff20O1Z1QPMw&index=14

The reviews are starting to come in now and even though I'm encourage, the device isn't where it needs it to be for me. So, I won't be getting this...but I'm definitely curious to see if Version 2 (if it happens) can fix what they dropped the ball on in Version 1.
Title: Re: Tablets and Handheld Devices (Formerly the Cintiq Thread)
Post by: Chiprocks1 on October 02, 2018, 02:29:59 pm
Introducing Microsoft Surface Studio 2

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RmVAbB3M-4Y

Introducing Microsoft Surface Pro 6

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pAueQoU8TQQ

Introducing Microsoft Surface Headphones

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xFe_ZYtfsZg

Some big video drops today. I'm not seeing anything other than these ads, so I'm still in the dark about specs. Couple of things I want to know right off the bat, for the Studio, does it allow for upgrades? That was the sticking point in the first one. Once it crapped out, you would have a very very expensive paperweight. And how about that Surface Headphone. Does it only work with Surface products or is it a traditional universal headphone? If it only works with Surface, they just shot themselves in the foot by limiting their prospective buying base.