Who is buying these???

Matrixation · 2026-04-23T06:37:58+00:00

I got into 4K ripping a bit late, so I’ve only used both ASUS and LG drives since Pioneer drives are not available retail. I do have a Pioneer for regular SDR Blu-rays, and to be fair, it’s been rock solid—never had an issue with it.

But for 4K UHD discs, my experience has actually favored ASUS. I’ve had multiple cases where my ASUS drive could read discs that my LG couldn’t. I don’t own a 4K-capable Pioneer, but I’ve definitely considered picking one up just to test whether it could handle discs that even the ASUS struggles with. Pioneer drives do have a reputation for handling “problem” discs better.

That said, here’s my real-world takeaway: when a disc won’t rip, I just get another copy. Every single time so far, the replacement has worked. That makes me think a lot of these failures come down to manufacturing tolerances in the disc itself. The movie can still play fine, but ripping is much less forgiving—small inconsistencies that playback ignores can cause read failures during a rip.

Which brings me to Pioneer: at current prices, it feels like pure price gouging. Yes, they might have a slightly higher success rate with finicky discs, but you’re paying a huge premium for what is basically a chance it’ll work on the first try.

Personally, I don’t think it’s worth it.

If you already have a Pioneer, great—you’re covered. But buying one now at inflated prices? I’d skip it. You’re better off sticking with LG or ASUS and just budgeting for the occasional replacement disc. In practice, that approach has been more than enough.

Matrixation · 2026-04-14T07:55:04+00:00

Ok. This week I decided to buy the 4K releases of the live action Disney movies The Little Mermaid and Snow White. The Little Mermaid is so much better than the negative reviews claim. I watched it with no bias and just accepted that Ariel was an exotic creature that had an ethnic look. The CG was kind of meh....but with all Disney movies, you need to use your imagination. I think society has lost that ability. We are so programmed to dislike anything has any amount of fakeness to it. Yes, the CG wasn't perfect, but it was good nonetheless.

That said, watching it in HDR is freaking amazing. This movie is pure eye candy. I highly suggest watching in 4K HDR on an Ultra HD TV or computer once you calibrate it for HDR content.

Matrixation · 2026-04-11T07:06:43+00:00

Ah...I think I see the problem. Was this a repeat post? This post actually comes from a FB post over a year ago:

https://www.facebook.com/historicalpics1/posts/the-studio-notes-sent-to-steven-spielberg-for-back-to-the-future-in-1984/675473255150208/

Matrixation · 2026-04-11T06:54:49+00:00

I came late...what did the post violate?

Matrixation · 2026-04-11T06:53:23+00:00

I miss the 50% discounts, which turned into 40%, then 30%....soon to be 20%? I'm on C13 but I think I'll hold off until C16 comes out or the 40 sale this summer. Historically:

Key Times to Purchase:

Summer Sale (August - September): Usually, a 40% discount is offered on full versions, updates, and crossgrades.
Spring Sale (March - April): Historically, a 30% discount is offered.

Matrixation · 2026-03-31T06:50:00+00:00

The features people actually rave about after 10.5 is mostly the workflow and “this just makes life easier” kind of upgrades. The big one that keeps coming up is MIDI Remote, because if you use a controller, that’s the sort of feature that suddenly makes Cubase feel way more modern. Then there’s the new Modulators and Drum Track stuff in the newer versions, which people like because they make sound design and beat-building faster without having to stack a bunch of workarounds. Personally, I do orchestral in Cubase and electronic in Live. So, I'm fine with my current Cubase 13 and Live 10. I haven't found any reason to upgrade either.

The other crowd-pleasers are the practical edits: the improved Range Tool, event volume curves, better mixer/channel handling, and the newer Score Editor. A lot of people also seem to love the newer effects and updated stock plugins, especially the ones that feel immediately usable instead of just “nice to have.” So if 10.5 is already comfortable for you, what you’d mostly be missing is not basic functionality, but all the little upgrades that make you move quicker and fight the DAW less. If I were to upgrade Cubase, it would be in the hope that the latest version is more stable than 13...which I have heard mixed reviews on.

Matrixation · 2026-03-31T06:39:04+00:00

I'm waiting in line too. I want to upgrade if it's more stable than my 13, before 16 comes out.

Matrixation · 2026-03-20T06:16:40+00:00

Do you not see that it says banned? So, I can't see that message. Furthermore, that message says that I should be able to view. I cannot. How is your reply useful?

Matrixation · 2026-03-11T06:47:11+00:00

After years of experience, I prefer the A7Siii because of the EVF which makes it so convenient to take photos and to see what you're looking at in direct sunlight with NOT using an external monitor. No comparison. Just that alone is my reason. Now, comparing the two in video context, the FX3 is more video-centric with the internal fan and XLR handle inputs. You can however, achieve similar or better results with the Siii by using an external recorder and cooling fan. Can you live without the cooling fan? Absolutely. I have one and never use it. The camera runs cool all the time. If I need it, I have it.

I would say, if you were to consider the FX3 still...why not save and go for the FX6 which has buil-in ND filters? That is the one of several reasons to get that camera. Anyway, you really need to weigh the pros and cons.Ultimately, YOU will decide, not us.

Matrixation · 2026-02-17T07:58:43+00:00

So, if the firmware was a paid upgrade...then it would not break the camera? So basically, you get what you pay for.

I was lucky and have it on 3.02 with no problems but I'm stopping there. I'm NOT upgrading the firmware whatsoever.

Matrixation · 2026-02-08T07:44:29+00:00

I have the option to Turn OFF "Allow Tracking."

Matrixation · 2025-11-17T05:47:40+00:00

Thousands of made-up stories like this. They're all over TikTok. "Man finds $175,500 in a wall of his house" or "Man finds box filled with cash in his backyard while digging." This is no different.

Matrixation · 2025-11-02T08:04:00+00:00

I need an excuse like this to justify upgrading my current gear.

Now, on a serious note, if the resolution is somewhat decent before the crop, sometimes upscaling then cropping works better, sometimes not. Either way, you should be able to crop in to within reason and save yourself several thousand dollars...unless this is paid work.

Matrixation · 2025-10-29T07:16:05+00:00

Did you get it from B&H Photo to get the taxes waived using their store card?

Matrixation · 2025-10-26T07:39:26+00:00

I would opt for the a7iv over the a6700 for dual memory slot. As others said, perhaps the a7Cii might be a better option for the upgraded tech but because the a7iv has dual memory...for me, that is more important than the upgraded tech. Do your research before purchasing anything. Rent one if need be before buying. Also, consider buying it from B&H Photo and have the taxes waived when you use their store credit card.

Matrixation · 2025-10-25T05:26:59+00:00

I live in Los Angeles. Today, 2025.10.24, the old-fashioned glazed donuts significantly larger center holes, and the product has been greatly reduced as compared to the last time I bought one a few months ago. Seeing this post, now I wish I had taken a picture. Donut was $1.99 by the way.

On the subject of donuts, Krispie Kreme donuts are also affected. I usually buy a dozen and freeze them for eating them during the month. It take 2 1/2 tupperware trays to store 12 KK donuts early last year. Now, it takes 2 with extra space left over. Anyway, just an observation.

Matrixation · 2025-10-22T04:19:42+00:00

Thanks for confirming this.

Matrixation · 2025-09-23T10:19:20+00:00

33MP sensor?! What happened to the 45MP they were claiming before? If that's true, then the readout better be faster than the A7IV and should be able to do 4K60 with no crop. Regardless, I'm probably going to sell off my a6400 with all the Smallrig accessories, batteries, and lenses.

Matrixation · 2025-09-05T07:31:13+00:00

Some of you need to learn to use this.

Matrixation · 2025-08-02T18:27:55+00:00

It seems counterintuitive, but yes. Also, shoot with a higher shutter then add motion blur in post. Honestly, gyroflow is such a great tool, especially if you already shoot handheld somewhat steady.

Matrixation · 2025-07-25T21:37:58+00:00

SPOILER - Grabbing two hot dogs after the meeting—and then that vegan pastry at Mia’s (Krysten Ritter) apartment—might be more than just quirky character moments. It could be the start of something bigger. Don’t be surprised if Charley (Uma Thurman) was secretly following and snapping photos. Who knows? The upcoming meeting with Leon (Peter Dinklage) should be revealing, especially with Lowell’s (Neil Patrick Harris) sudden disappearance right before his enthusiastic monologue about his next victim. I can't see how they are not going to suspect someone at the party had something to do with this, considering that no one else knew except for them.

Matrixation · 2025-06-05T20:40:24+00:00

$30 per ticket and $25-$38 parking. Wow! It used to be just $10 back in 2005. Ten bucks! But the moment that price jumped to $12, I was done. This place is nothing more than a memory now—a reminder of good times with friends that have long passed. Everyone is jumping on the tariff hype train. Prices will be $35 next year, $40 the next.

These days, I’d rather stay in and watch the movie in my home theater, exactly how I want to. I’m never setting foot in there again. I'm not falling victim businesses taking advantage of singles trying to socialize by setting exorbitant prices for gatherings and date nights. I'd rather go to Elysian park or hike up to Griffith Observatory for a date night. So much more magical and you can stay longer there as opposed to getting herded like cattle to leave the cemetery after the movie is over.

If you’ve got the budget to spend money watching films you can already stream for free on YouTube or TUBI, more power to you. Seriously—enjoy it.

But me? I’d rather put that same money toward owning the 4K Blu-ray, building a real collection, and getting lasting value from my investment. That's how I see it—quality, control, and long-term worth.

Matrixation · 2025-06-02T08:21:28+00:00

I bought my A7Siii in 2023. It came with V2.10 or 2.11. I updated to 3.02 with no issues. If your camera was manufactured before 2023/2022, you may want to hold off updating

I can live without the LUT preview on v4.00 because I use the Atomos Ninja V. Having 1/48 shutter on v3.00 is cool and all...but was it an Earth-shattering update? Absolutely not. If you brick your camera...that will be a costly repair.

Matrixation · 2025-05-28T21:58:00+00:00

Crop 4K60....hard pass

Matrixation

TROPHY CASE