pixelPERFEXION™
pixelPERFEXION.net
Site contents ©2021 Jack Neubart. All rights reserved.
  • Home
  • Reviews
  • News/Views
  • About
  • Contact

Field Report: MindShift Gear’s TrailScape 18L – A Trail-worthy Pack for Nature Outings

11/6/2016

0 Comments

 
PictureCourtesy MindShift Gear.
The moment I unpacked this photo backpack and unzipped the main flap, I had a sense of déjà vu. I’d seen this bag before.

Then I took a look at my Think Tank Photo StreetWalker and realized where I’d seen this design. 

​The new TrailScape largely mimics the interior of the StreetWalker, or perhaps more correctly the StreetWalker Pro, since the dimensions more closely match that pack. But there are substantive differences. What are they? Read on.

The TrailScape – On the Outside
Gone are the two zippered side pockets found on the StreetWalker. They are wisely replaced by two roomier stretch pockets. Granted, some may lament the loss of these zip pockets, but I always found them a bit too cramped for my taste.
 
Instead, you now have room for a 32-oz. Nalgene water bottle on one side, counterbalanced by your tripod snugly secured by compression straps, with two feet (spikes retracted) resting inside the opposite stretch pocket.
 
On the front, there is a very spacious pocket that will hold a 13” laptop and a 10” tablet, not that I ever carry either into the field. But I do make use of these sleeves for maps, pads, and various accessories. There are also organizer pockets in this section.
 
In front of this large pocket sits another pocket, diminutive by comparison, designed to carry your sunglasses, with a very softly textured fabric lining that shouldn’t scratch. I’ve got a pair of those sunglasses that are so bulbous when closed that they require a custom case. They fit here. But I was so afraid they’d get crushed at some point, that I removed them and put them back in their hard case. In their place went my Giotto’s rocket blower.
 
The zippers run very smoothly. However, I would have preferred contrasting colors for the zipper pulls on the front pocket. Yes, the zip pulls, which are designed to be easily handled with gloves, are smaller on the pocket. But I did manage to grab them by accident. So my solution was to rest them on the side, with the main zips up top. Problem solved.
 
Because this is a trail pack, in contrast to the zips on the StreetWalker, the zippers are not interlocking (for the purpose of inserting a TSA lock). Besides, locking a bag only makes it that much more tempting to those looking to steal it.
 
There are four lash points on the front of the bag, but you’ll have to supply your own rope or bungee cord. If you need to carry stuff inside the front pocket to keep it safe from the elements, you can lash a jacket to the front of the bag. I keep a light jacket inside this pocket.
 
There’s a carrying handle on top – more of a strap, really, coming to rest on the back of the pack. While not nearly as substantial as the one on the StreetWalker, such straps have been used on other packs (I believe also from MindShift or Think Tank), and I’ve never known them to fail. Besides, in contrast to that other bag, this handle doesn’t add to the height of the bag – which could make a difference when you’re trying to squeeze into a tight overhead bin or under a seat. (By the way, if you’re going to carry the pack for any distance, by any means other than fully on your back with both straps, use one of the shoulder straps, not the carrying handle.)
​On the Inside
This pack is not nearly as deep as even the original StreetWalker. What does that mean? Forget about carrying a pro-grip camera, unless you insert it face-up sans lens. That said, my Nikon D610 rides much more secure in this bag, because it’s less of a bouncy house (although, I must admit, I always secure the camera with a Velcro band over the dividers or I’ll seat another divider over the lens for a snug fit).
 
There are plenty of padded dividers. As is, this pack is fitted for a slew of lenses, accessories, and a flash. My dividers never sit in one place for very long, however. That’s the beauty of a customizable system.
 
There are also two mesh pockets inside the front lid for small, chiefly flat items.
 
In Use
The first thing I have to comment on is the backpack harness system and airflow/lumbar padding. In a trail pack, this is of utmost importance for your comfort and safety during long treks, especially over arduous terrain. While this pack is not meant for such outings, by its very nature, still, it’s comforting to know it will stand the test.
 
The harness system on the TrailScape feels better than the one found on the StreetWalker. The straps are wider at the shoulder. The straps on both packs are contoured top to bottom to fit the body nicely, but this one is decidedly a better fit.
 
As with the StreetWalker, the unpadded waist strap is removable. (Keep it inside the bag, or you’ll lose it. Better yet, leave it attached – reattaching can be a chore if you didn’t take notes on how the straps originally attached to the bag).
 
The sternum (chest) strap on the TrailScape is longer and a bit stretchy for larger chests or someone wearing lots of winter layers. On my initial outing, I didn’t find it necessary to use either the waist belt or chest strap. The pack rode comfortably on my back without requiring constant adjustments.
 
By the way, when you first get the pack, it’s important to loosen all straps. Tighten them when the pack is on your back, and adjust them once on the trail.
 
You’re probably thinking that it’s odd this pack doesn’t allow for a hydration bladder, whereas the more compact SidePath, which is essentially an enhanced daypack, will accommodate a bladder. I’m guessing, that, when you start with one basic design, namely the StreetWalker, it would be difficult to create a custom passageway for a drinking tube without destroying the solid fabric of that pack. And frankly, I’m not a fan of bladders, so this doesn’t bother me in the least. If you must use a bladder, MindShift has several alternatives available, currently the rotation 180 packs.
​Who Should Use This?
Hikers and nature enthusiasts.
 
Capsule Comments
Comfortable; protective; durable construction; fully customizable; thoughtfully designed; room for a tripod and full-size water bottle; holds a small laptop and tablet; room in outside pocket for a jacket; won’t accommodate a hydration bladder (important only if you prefer this method of hydration).
 
Conclusions
Despite being built on the framework of the Think Tank StreetWalker or StreetWalker Pro, the TrailScape has a number of useful features that stand it apart from it progenitors. Essentially, this is a trail pack, not a city-slicker pack.

You can, of course, wear the TrailScape around town. Compared to many of MindShift’s other trailworthy packs, this one has a more manageable footprint. That makes it easier to maneuver in tight spaces while wearing the pack, such as crowds and public transit.
 
What most recommends this pack is the harness system. While I didn’t load the pack to capacity, walking around with it on my back never felt like a burden. The shoulder straps kept the bag in place without digging into my shoulders – and, I should point out, I was only wearing a t-shirt and photo vest (sans epaulets).
 
So, in my book, this one’s a keeper. I know, I’ve said that before about bags I’ve later given away. But as new bags arrive, one has to make room. For now, this TrailScape 18L is the perfect size for my outings when I need to carry several lenses, with one attached to the camera, along with a flash, various accessories, and a light jacket.
 
The only thing on my wish list for this bag: a snazzier design. The exterior is a bit bland. Why stop with basic black? I would really love to see some camouflage patterns on MindShift bags – say on the order of Mojave Desert and Amazon Rainforest. Something to think about, guys.

Where can I get more info?
MindShift Gear (order direct).
 
Manufacturer (ordering info):
MindShift Gear
 
How much is it?
$169.99
FEATURES (per MindShift Gear)
  • Dedicated quick access smartphone/sunglasses pocket
  • Tripod/monopod/hiking pole mounting system on sides
  • Two large water bottle pockets with cinch cord
  • Seamless rain cover included for downpour conditions
  • Side compression straps for additional lash points
  • Adjustable dividers to customize the interior for DSLR or mirrorless kit
  • Interior zippered pockets for batteries, cards, filters and other accessories
  • Easy-grip zipper pulls for wet or cold conditions
  • Organizer pockets for pens, flashlight and business cards
GEAR CAPACITY (per MindShift Gear)
  • Holds 1 standard-size DSLR and 4 to 6 standard zoom lenses
  • Holds 2 large mirrorless bodies and 5 to 7 lenses plus a flash
  • Maximum lens size: 300mm f/2.8
Examples:
  • Nikon D810 with 70-200mm f/2.8 attached to a body and the hood in the shooting position and 2-3 additional lenses
  • Canon 5DMIII with 24-70mm f/2.8 attached and 4-6 additional lenses
  • Sony a7mII with 70-200mm f/4 attached and 5-6 additional lenses
 
MATERIALS (per MindShift Gear)
Exterior: For superior water resistance, all exterior fabric has a durable water-repellant coating, plus a polyurethane coating on the underside of the fabric. The backpack also features the highest-quality abrasion-resistant YKK® RC zippers, 420D velocity nylon, 600D poly, 320G DuraStretch mesh, 350G airmesh, nylon webbing, and 3-ply bonded nylon thread.
​
Interior: P200D lining, high-density nylex with stiffened backing, hexa-mesh pockets, high-density closed-cell foam, PE board reinforcement, and 3-ply bonded nylon thread.
 
SPECIFICATIONS (per MindShift Gear)
  • Exterior: 9.8” W x 18.1” H x 7.1” D (25 × 46 × 18 cm)
  • Interior: 9.4” W x 17.3” H x 4.8” D (24 × 44 × 12 cm)
  • Laptop: 8.9” W x 14.2” H x 1.2” D (22.7 × 36 × 3 cm)
  • Tablet: 8.5” W x 9.8” H x 0.8” D (21.5 × 25 × 2 cm)
  • Weight: 2.8 lbs. (1.3 kg)
0 Comments

Review: Epson EX9200 Pro Wireless WUXGA 3LCD Projector

11/2/2016

0 Comments

 
PicturePhoto courtesy Epson America.
​Back at Abraham Lincoln High School, in Brooklyn, I was captain of the AV Squad – might have only been for one semester, or for the full year. It’s a faint memory. But any way you slice it, yup, I was a geek or nerd, or whatever term was popular at the time. I didn’t really enjoy it. Mostly we were responsible for setting up film projectors. Admittedly, I was terrible at threading the projector, so I’d try to send someone out other than myself when that job was required. I don’t remember using a slide projector back then, but I’m sure that was woven into the fabric of the AV Squad.
 
It wasn’t till years later, as a professional photographer, that I started working with a slide projector in earnest – a Kodak Ektagraphic, to be precise. I became a whiz at running that projector. After all, I didn’t have to thread anything. And I didn’t have a bunch of strangers looking on making me nervous.
 
Fast forward to the 21st century and the digital age. Projecting digital files now required a digital projector. So when I tried my hand at conducting my own photo workshops, I turned to Epson. Little did I realize what a painless experience running a digital projector would prove to be. In fact, one might say it was fun.
 
When I sent Epson pics of the space I’d be using initially, they recommended a brighter projector than I’d at first requested. The projector they sent me on temporary loan was the EX9200. Along with it, they sent a screen. Again, they found a more suitable choice than the one I’d originally requested. They sent the ES3000 Ultra Portable Projector Screen.

Picture
Epson EX9200 Pro Wireless WUXGA 3LCD Projector. Photo courtesy Epson America.
​Setting Up and Using the EX9200 Projector and ES3000 Screen
I removed the projector from its soft, padded case. (Note: if you’ll be carrying this around extensively, you might want to look into a more substantial case, with a better carrying strap system). Then I plugged the AC cord into an outlet at one end, the projector at the other.
 
With the projector turned on, the rest seemed to happen as if by magic. I connected the EX9200 to my iMac via USB and everything went smoothly after that. Absolutely no bumps or hiccups to report. Using the projector with a flash drive for that first workshop proceeded flawlessly. The only thing worthy of note: I recommend you get a separate laser pointer. The laser pointer built into the remote drags across the screen and proved counterproductive. Other than that, working with the wireless remote was a breeze.
 
Setting up the screen seemed more intimidating. It had been a very long time since I’d last set up a projection screen. This one was big and clunky, and the illustration that served as the only instructions that came with it didn’t help. But this thing is built so tough that it’s hard to do any damage, and eventually it stood tall and facing the projector squarely. For a test run, I’d set the projector up on a small step stool, making sure to leave room for the cooling air vents.
 
Since it was a sample, the screen arrived without its roller case. Luckily, the classroom I’d be using for my first workshop was right across the street. So schlepping it there was easy enough – and I had help bringing it back.
Picture
Rear of EX9200, exhibiting extensive connectivity. Photo courtesy Epson America.

​Who Should Use This?
Anyone who needs a high-quality projector: schools, teachers, workshops, business meetings.
 
Capsule Comments
User-friendly; WUXGA (1920 x 1200) Full HD widescreen resolution; bright picture (3200 lumens color/white light output); sharp picture; great color; HDMI/MHL connectivity; USB; supports flash drives.

Conclusions
I should point out that I restricted my use of the projector to USB flash drives and direct connection via USB to my iMac. I had no difficulties with either. In fact, the entire experience with the projector was trouble free.
 
The Epson EX9200 Pro Wireless WUXGA 3LCD Projector proved effortless in operation. The wireless remote definitely makes a difference, as does WUXGA screen resolution. The EX9200 projected crisp images with good color saturation. It was definitely the right choice for a workshop environment.

Where can I get more info?
Epson America
 
One more thing: you might want to look at Epson’s guide to buying a digital projector. Use this link (click here). 
 
Manufacturer:
Epson America
 
How much is it?
$799.99

FEATURES (per Epson)
  • Far more accurate color with Epson — 3LCD, 3-chip technology for 3x Higher Color Brightness* and up to 3x Wider Color Gamut† than competitive DLP projectors
  • One measurement of brightness is not enough — look for both high color brightness and high white brightness. The EX9200 has:
Color Brightness (for more accurate, vivid color): 3200 lumens
White Brightness (for well-lit rooms): 3200 lumens
  • Pro-quality projector — WUXGA resolution (1920 x 1200) offers 4.5x more resolution than SVGA for Full HD 1080p content; plus enhanced connectivity
  • Wireless — project from your laptop, tablet, or smartphone without plugging into the projector, so you can move freely about the room
  • Share HD videos directly from your smartphone, tablet or streaming device — supports MHL-enabled devices, including Chromecast and Roku Streaming Stick
  • Fast wireless setup for your mobile device — just scan the on-screen QR code using your phone or tablet
  • Fast, easy setup, only from Epson — get up and running in no time with easy image adjustments and convenient control
  • Compatible with the latest laptops and media players — supports HDMI, the standard in connectivity, for digital video and audio with just one cable
  • Portability you need for presentations on the go — carrying case included
  • USB Plug 'n Play — use the included USB cable to instantly project content from a PC or Mac
  • Weight: 5.7 lb (2.4 kg)
Full specs can be found by clicking this link. 
0 Comments

    Reviews

    TECHNICAL EDITOR
    Jack Neubart

     

    Archives

    December 2019
    September 2019
    August 2019
    July 2019
    May 2019
    April 2019
    February 2019
    November 2018
    September 2018
    August 2018
    May 2018
    January 2018
    November 2017
    September 2017
    July 2017
    June 2017
    May 2017
    April 2017
    February 2017
    December 2016
    November 2016
    October 2016
    August 2016
    July 2016
    May 2016
    April 2016
    March 2016
    February 2016
    January 2016
    December 2015
    August 2015
    December 2014
    August 2014
    July 2014
    April 2014
    November 2013
    October 2013

    Categories

    All
    13x19-inch Printers
    35mm-style Digital Cameras
    Acratech
    Adobe Software
    Austin
    Backpacks
    Ballheads
    Camera Backpacks
    Camera Bags
    Camera Cases
    Camera Holsters
    Camera Luggage
    Camera Supports
    Canon Cameras
    Canon Lenses
    Compact DSLRs
    Compact Photo Printer
    Compact System Cameras
    Desktop Printers
    Digital Projectors
    Digital Retouching
    Digital SLR
    DSLR
    Epson
    Exposure Control
    Fashionable Bags
    Fast Lenses
    Film Emulation
    Flash Photography
    Hawaii
    HDR Plug-in
    HDR Software
    HD SLR
    HD-SLR
    High-resolution DSLR
    Holster Bags
    Image-editing Software
    Image-stabilized Lenses
    Inkjet Printers
    L Bracket
    L-bracket
    Lens Cases
    Lenses
    Lens Pouches
    Leveling Base
    Long-lens Bags
    Macphun
    Macro
    Macro Flash
    Manfrotto
    Mega-zoom Digital Camera
    MindShift Gear
    Mirrorless Cameras
    Nikon Cameras
    Nikon Digital Cameras
    Nikon Mirrorless
    Nikon Pro Digital Cameras
    Nissin
    Nodal Rail
    Nodal Slide
    Olympus
    Outdoor Photography
    Panorama Head
    Panoramas
    Panoramic Photography
    Photo Accessories
    Photo Backpacks
    Photo Belts
    Photo Luggage
    Photo Rollers
    Plug-ins
    Point-and-shoot Zoom
    Portrait Retouching Software
    Printer
    Pro Cameras
    Pro Digital Cameras
    Radio Remote Flash
    Radio TTL Wireless Flash
    Rain Covers
    Rain Hoods
    RAW Conversion Software
    Review: Photo Accessories
    Review: Phottix Odin Radio Remote
    Review: PocketWizard ControlTL
    Review: Software
    Ring Flash
    Rolling Cases
    Samsung Cameras
    Shimoda Designs
    Shoe Mount Flash
    Shoulder Bags
    Shutterbug.com Review
    Shutterbug Magazine
    Sigma Lenses
    SKB Cases
    Sling Bag
    Sling Bags
    Sling Pack
    Snapshot Printer
    Software
    Software Effects
    Super Wide Lenses
    Super-wide Lenses
    Superzoom
    Tamron Lenses
    Telephoto Zooms
    Tenba
    Texas
    Think Tank Photo
    Tripod Heads
    Tripods: Carbon Fiber
    TTL Radio Wireless Flash
    TTL Wireless Flash
    Ultra Wide Lenses
    Ultra-wide Lenses
    Ultra-zoom Digital Camera
    Wide Format Printers
    Wireless Flash
    Zoom Lenses

    RSS Feed

    All products and services are the trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.
    Use or mention of any product or service is not an endorsement - compensated or otherwise.
    However, manufacturers, distributors, vendors & services may provide products or services for use.

    Your purchase and/or use of any product or service tested, reviewed, listed or mentioned is solely at your discretion and you release us from any and all liability associated with such purchase and/or use.

Your satisfaction, our expertise. They go hand in hand.
Bringing over 35 years' experience into everything we create.

Entire contents of this website is comprised of original works created by Jack Neubart, including but not limited to photographs, digital work, musical compositions, stories, humor, poetry, and any other artistic or textual material. 
All work Copyright ©2021 Jack Neubart and is protected under United States and International laws and treaties.
All rights reserved. None of the contents may be copied, extracted, abstracted, adapted, transmitted, digitally altered, or otherwise used or published without express permission of the Copyright owner.
Webmaster: Jack Neubart (building on a Weebly.com template).