Lifestyle
Master & Dynamic MW07 Review: Beauty & Performance
Published
6 years agoon
True wireless earbud has been the hottest tech wearable trend in 2018 and will likely remain the case heading into 2019. The competitive space is packed with heavy hitters like Sennheiser, Apple, Samsung, Nike, and Jabre each with their unique product claiming their fair share of the market. Enter Master & Dynamic MW07, a true wireless earbud that debut in the later quarter of 2018. With a price tag of $299 and a laundry list of features rivaling every other major player on the market, Masters & Dynamic MW07 is a serious contender in the space.
Master & Dynamic is a New York-based company that launched in 2014 and have since made a name for themselves among the creative community. The company is founded on the belief that their products should be beautiful and built to last without compromising sound quality. And every bit of that philosophy can be seen and felt when unboxing the MW07 for the first time.
Unboxing the MW07
The box is well designed and looks simple, it has almost an Apple feel to it. Upon unboxing, you’re greeted to the usual wires, different silicon ear-wing sizes, manual, and interestingly – a USB-C charger. Not many wireless earbuds come with USB-C charging ports, so it was a surprise to see it on the MW07. They also included an adapter to regular USB for your convenience.
And of course, there’s the unmistakable shiny box that’s housing the earbuds. Its polished steel construction gives both a beautiful yet sturdy feel in your hand. It doesn’t feel flimsy or cheaply made, simply because it wasn’t.
The polished steel case
The polished steel casing deserves some attention. Given the casing is 50% of the product and something you need to carry around all the time, it needs to be well designed and well thought out. And Master & Dynamic absolutely nails the design of the case. It’s easily one of the most beautiful tech gadgets you’ll see this year and easily mistaken as a jewelry case.
It’s polished steel all-around. No complicated buttons, dials, exposed hinges, obnoxious branding, or anything that would distract you. On top, you’ll find the Master & Dynamic logo subtly laser engraved. Other than that, you won’t find MW07 or any branding on the case. After all, why would they need to? The case is already distinctive and unique compared to anything else on the market. There’s no need to shout when your presence is already known.
One downside to the case is that it’s heavy. And that can be a good or bad thing depending on how you look at it. It’s heavy enough to assure you it was built to protect your $299 earbuds, but the weight can be distracting if you plan to carry it out for a jog.
The Case’s Features
The MW07 isn’t flashy, and it isn’t intended to be. That design philosophy can be seen on how the case indicates battery level of the case and of the left and right earpieces. The power indicator is presented by 3 tiny lights on the front of the case. The left and right lights indicate the left and right earbuds. The center light indicates battery level of the case itself.
Opening and closing the case is secured via a solid hinge that doesn’t have much wiggle room and feels sturdy. The magnetic clasp for opening and closing is strong and satisfyingly tight. It’s strong enough to keep everything secure, but not strong enough to be annoying to open with one hand.
On the back is a USB-C port for charging. The MW07 also comes with a regular USB adapter for convenience, a nice touch.
The Earbuds
One thing I appreciate about Master & Dynamic is their subtle branding. The piece feels very personal and the branding is kept to a minimal. The top lid has a minimalistic laser engraving of their logo. Opening the case, you’re greeted to the same subtlety. The earbuds don’t feature any eccentric edges, sharp corners, or exotic flairs. It’s a simple and minimalistic design that’s elegant and stays true to the maker’s design philosophy.
The right earpiece has one button on top. Double click to skip a song and triple click to go back to the previous song. Left earpiece has seesaw buttons for adjusting the sound. There’s no touch sensitive feature or gesture controls. At this price point, I was expecting some level of gesture control or more functionality that their competitors offer.
The Fit
The ribbed wingtip looks weird at first, but it does provide a secure and comfortable fit even while jogging. The MW07 also comes with several other sizes of tips for you to try on. Our tester was able to get a secure and snug fit with the medium size. During jogging sessions, long walks, and a casual day in the city, the Master & Dynamic MW07 managed to stay secure all day. There were a few occasions where it loosen up a bit but never fell out.
The Looks & Performance
Although it fits well, it is highly visible and not something that will go unnoticed. But it does have a simplistic and functional look. There aren’t protruding buttons, weird angles, or ridiculous air vent designs to make it look futuristic or “advanced”. And that choice of design can work for a more sophisticated audience.
And when it comes to sound…my goodness. It absolutely performs as promised and more. The bass is deep, rich, and gives you a nice surround experience without being too overwhelming. Voices and instruments are crystal clear. And the MW07 is surprisingly louder than many other wireless earbuds on the market. There’s plenty of sound to be had and you’ll rarely need to crank the volume to the max just to bypass pedestrian noises on the street.
The 4.2 Bluetooth connection was solid. We never once lost connection, although there were some skipping every now and then when we’re moving and the phone is inside a jacket.
Similar to the Apple Airpods, it auto-detects when you put it on. As soon as you put it on, it auto-connects to your phone (or whichever device you paired it with). That is one thing I personally appreciated about the MW07, was that there was always a seamless connection. I never had to worry about whether it was going to connect. Didn’t have to unpaired and repair in my phone settings. The connection always works, and that’s a major win for a wireless device.
The Battery Life
Battery life is about 3.5hrs and the case can give you 3x charge before it needs to be recharged. Overall, not the best in class in terms of battery life, but during real life testing, we didn’t experience any issues with the battery life.
Final Verdict
The MW07 was made for a very specific audience. It wasn’t designed to impress anyone except those who demand artistic design, elegant engineering, and won’t compromise either for performance. The Master & Dynamic MW07 is a rare species of wireless earbud that’s able to accomplish all 3. From the over-engineered stainless steel case to the beautiful sound it generates, the MW07 is an original and unique animal in it’s own right. It’s not trying to compete with the Apple Airpods or out-feature Jabra or Sennheiser. It’s a beautifully designed, well engineered, reliable, and high performing wireless experience that knows who it’s target is, and priced accordingly. At $299, it’s certainly not cheap. But it’s worth every single penny.
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The 10 Best Gifts for Coffee Lovers
Digital Nomads Flock To These 10 Amazing Tax-Free Cities
Coffee enthusiasts come in all shapes and sizes. Data in the U.S. alone shows that coffee consumption remains high. A 2024 report shows about 73 percent of Americans drink coffee daily. There’s something for everyone, from cappuccino lovers and bean enthusiasts to those craving a quick, affordable caffeine fix. Whether you’re shopping for a friend, partner, or your own home coffee bar, you’re bound to find something great from our list!
1. Airscape Coffee Canister
Photo Credit: Amazon
Airtight canisters are best for storing coffee to maintain its quality. If your loved one appreciates the quality of their coffee, the Airscape coffee canister is an excellent choice.
Made from food-grade stainless steel, the airtight canister is durable and stylish. The patented inner plunger lid with a two-way valve forces excess oxygen out of the canister and locks out excess humidity. Plus, it is available in various sizes. It’s perfect for storing coffee, as well as other dry goods like tea, sugar, flour, and spices.
The Airscape Coffee Canister is available in medium and large sizes and six colors.
2. Cuisinart GK-1 Digital Gooseneck Kettle
Photo Credit: Amazon
This is our top pick for electric gooseneck kettles. Its precise, angled spout is perfect for making pour-over coffee, perhaps with the Kalita Wave Dripper or the Chemex. Its technical details are fine-tuned: The temperature control is adjustable by five-degree increments, and its rounded handle is easy to maneuver. It has a matte black finish, so it doesn’t pick up fingerprints like stainless steel. And with its shapely design and small footprint, it looks lovely sitting on a kitchen counter.
3. Hario V60 Dripper
Photo Credit: Amazon
Brewing with a pour-over is a beloved ritual for coffee lovers. The Hario V60 Ceramic Dripper is one of the most affordable and reliable options and is my favorite.
The ceramic model costs $26.53, but there are also copper, glass, stainless steel, and plastic versions. The affordable filters ensure a clean and delicious brew. While the V60 requires some skill and precision, it’s not too difficult to master. The process encourages mindfulness, making each cup worth the effort.
4. Workhorse Grinder
Photo Credit: NY Times
The lightweight Timemore Chestnut C2 Manual Coffee Grinder is our favorite model under $100. Our testers appreciated its impressively smooth and speedy grinding action. The handle comes off, so this grinder is easy to store or travel with—excellent for outdoorsy coffee devotees who don’t want to sacrifice fresh grounds. They can dial in the coarseness and chop through about three tablespoons of coffee at a time.
5. Moka Express – Squid Game
Photo Credit: Bialetti
Bialetti and Netflix team up to launch a unique, brightly colored Capsule Collection that celebrates the popularity of the Korean series Squid Game. The vibrant, playful colors, geometric details, and “Game Over” writing enhance the iconic coffee maker, making it an essential companion throughout the game to achieve victory and win the prize.
So, what are you waiting for? Surprise your friend who’s crazy about Squid Game with the limited-edition Moka Express coffee maker.
6. East Fork Ceramic Mug
Photo Credit: East Fork Pottery
This sturdy, thoughtfully crafted ceramic mug has been my morning companion for a couple of years now, and I couldn’t love it any more than I already do. It went through a phase of viral popularity a while back, but they’re easier to find now. You might have to hop between the available colors, though, because they still do sell out.
The mug is made from robust ceramic that feels sturdy. It has a gently sloping grip big enough for most hands and feels smooth and balanced when you pick it up. Warmed by fresh coffee, the glaze kind of soothes your palm. It’s magical.
7. Instant Pot Milk Frother
Photo Credit: Instant Pot
Here’s another gift suggestion: The Instant Pot Milk Frother swiftly heats milk for lattes or creamy macchiatos with a spout designed for latte art. This versatile frother can also produce hot milk, which is made of two types: hot milk foam and trendy cold foam.
8. Snow Peak Ti-Double 450 Anodize Mug
Photo Credit: Snow Peak
This gift is perfect for friends or loved ones who enjoy camping adventures. Japanese outfitter Snow Peak offers a dizzying array of high-end outdoor apparel that’s popular with bougie car campers and dirtbag climbers alike. Still, the titanium cookware that first propelled the brand’s popularity in the U.S. remains the jewel in its crown.
Enter the Snow Peak Ti-Double 450 mug, which packs timeless style and durability into a double-walled mug that weighs only 115 grams. A pair of foldable handles welded onto the exterior provide extra protection from scalding hot liquids and a new selection of colors.
9. Ratio Six Coffee Maker
Photo Credit: Ratio
The Ratio Six Coffee Maker is the best SCA-certified option. It’s a dream machine for any pour-over enthusiast!
Crafted from durable materials like stainless steel and borosilicate glass, the Ratio Six is visually appealing and incredibly well-made. Its insulated carafe keeps coffee hot for up to an hour after brewing. Moreover, the filter basket features a heat shield to maintain the coffee’s temperature at around 200 degrees Fahrenheit (93 degrees Celsius) during brewing. The heat shield and the professional-quality spray head ensure even and consistent extraction every time.
10. Coffeeness Very Own Espresso Blend
Photo Credit: Amazon
Last but not the least, good coffee is the easiest gift to get for any coffee aficionado. This premium blend of direct-trade Brazilian coffee beans produces rich, bold, and complex espresso that’s ideal straight or paired with milk. Featuring notes of chocolate and hazelnut, our Espresso Blend is particularly low in acidity, making it easy on the stomach.
Conclusion
Our curated list is just a portion of unlimited gift ideas for your coffee-loving pal. From stylish storage solutions and precise brewing tools to unique and thoughtful gifts, you’ll find everything you need to satisfy your coffee cravings and those of your loved ones. So, explore our recommendations and discover the perfect additions to your coffee routine. Cheers to the perfect brew!
Lifestyle
Digital Nomads Flock To These 10 Amazing Tax-Free Cities
Published
4 months agoon
February 4, 2025The rise of remote work has paved the way for many to gain freedom to live and work from anywhere in the world. But for many work-from-home advocates, the right destination can also mean gaining financial benefits aside from having their dream lifestyle. This is where tax-free cities for digital nomads come in. Maximize your earnings, reduce business expenses, and enjoy a high-quality lifestyle when you relocate to the ten best tax-free cities:
The Benefits of Living in a Tax-Free City
If you are a digital nomad looking for a change of scenery, you’ll get the following benefits when you move to these destinations:
- Tax Savings: For entrepreneurs and remote workers, you’ll save on taxes when you move to any of the cities included in this list. Without paying income taxes, you can keep more of your earnings.
- Business-Friendly Incentives: Many tax-free cities offer favorable corporate policies, residency programs, and economic incentives. Not only will you have the opportunity to work in a setting that suits your lifestyle, but you’ll also reap financial benefits.
- Improved Financial Freedom: Lower tax burdens offer greater financial flexibility. This enables you to enjoy a higher standard of living, travel for leisure, and invest in your future without excessive government deductions.
Top 10 Amazing Tax-Free Cities for Digital Nomads
1. Dubai, UAE
Photo Credit: Aleksandar Pasaric on Pexels
Emerging as one of the most attractive destinations for digital nomads, Dubai has a zero personal income tax policy and a thriving business environment. As part of the United Arab Emirates, Dubai offers a state-of-the-art infrastructure, fast internet, and a well-connected global hub with flights to the world’s major cities. The city’s Virtual Working Program grants digital nomads a one-year residency visa that lets them live in Dubai while working for an overseas company.
2. Bermuda
Famous for its stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters, the British Territory of Bermuda makes working remotely even better as it doesn’t impose income taxes. Its digital nomad visa has no income requirement but will ask to see your financial status. This is to prove that you can support yourself on the island without having a job there. It also allows foreign workers to live and work for up to one year. The abundance of outdoor activities, reliable internet, and plenty of co-working spaces provide an excellent balance of work and play.
3. Croatia
An increasingly popular destination for digital nomads, Croatia is a favorite destination for digital nomads. While it isn’t entirely tax-free, its tax policies and dedicated digital nomad visa exempt you from income tax on foreign-earned income. Remote workers who qualify for this country’s Digital Nomad Residence Permit can enjoy this benefit. In addition, Croatia’s low cost of living allows you to enjoy a Mediterranean lifestyle while working remotely.
4. Antigua and Barbuda
Photo Credit: Julia Volk on Pexels
A beautiful Caribbean nation, Antigua and Barbuda offers zero personal income tax for digital nomads. This twin-island nation has stunning beaches, warm weather, and a welcoming expat community that makes it an ideal place if you’re looking to embrace the island life. It introduced the Nomad Digital Residence (NDR) visa to attract more remote workers. This allows you to live and work for up to two years without paying local income taxes.
5. Panama
Thanks to its territorial tax system, Panama is now a popular destination for digital nomads and entrepreneurs looking to enjoy foreign-earned income that isn’t taxed. Its various visa options include the Short Stay Visa for Remote Workers, which lets you live and work for up to 18 months. It requires proof of employment or self-employment with a minimum income of $36,000. This nation offers modern infrastructure, high-speed internet, and an active expat community.
6. Grenada
Earning the moniker “Spice Isle” of the Caribbean, Grenada offers zero personal income tax for digital nomads. It has business-friendly policies, breath-taking landscapes, and a relaxed lifestyle, ideal for remote workers looking for financial and individual freedom. In lieu of a dedicated digital nomad visa, you can take advantage of its long-stay visa options or explore its Citizenship by Investment Program, which gives you the chance to obtain permanent residency.
7. Montserrat
Another tax-free Caribbean hideaway, Montserrat, is a favorite of many digital nomads thanks to its zero personal income tax. Its lush landscape, volcanic scenery, and friendly local community offer superb work-life balance away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Its digital nomad visa, the Montserrat Remote Work Stamp, lets you live and work in Montserrat for up to 12 months. All you need to do is provide proof of employment with an annual income of at least $70,000.
8. Barbados
Photo Credit: Blue Ox Studio on Pexels
Having positioned itself as a top destination for remote workers, Barbados offers zero personal income tax by introducing its Barbados Welcome Stamp. This visa lets you live and work in Barbados for up to 12 months, making it an excellent option for those looking for financial and lifestyle benefits. To qualify for the Welcome Stamp, you must earn at least $50,000 annually and provide proof of remote employment or self-employment. Its hassle-free application process lets you enjoy the duty-free import of personal belongings and many other benefits.
9. Anguilla
A dream destination for many digital nomads, Anguilla is another tax-free Caribbean paradise. It offers no personal income, capital gains, or corporate tax for individuals. It introduced the Work From Anguilla program to attract more location-independent professionals. This grants them a 12-month remote work visa and access to high-speed internet, modern infrastructure, and a relaxed, safe environment. Its pristine beaches, low population density, and welcoming community make it the perfect place for productivity and leisure.
10. Uruguay
Another South American hub for digital nomads, Uruguay offers a territorial tax system that does not impose a tax on foreign-earned income. In addition to letting you enjoy a stable and high-quality lifestyle, Uruguay provides a five-year tax holiday on foreign income, an appealing offer for long-term stays. Uruguay’s excellent infrastructure, reliable internet, and active expat community let you establish legal residency via the country’s Straightforward Residency Program.
Adopting a cat for the first time can be both an exciting and overwhelming experience. Trust me – I’ve been there.
Just a few months ago, a pastel tabby tortoiseshell (or, as they say, torbie) came knocking on our door. She walked into our patio, setting off the security alarm, and when I came out to look, she meowed at me, seemingly begging for food.
Not having any pets, I rummaged through the pantry and decided a can of sausages would suffice. When I set the plate in front of her, she gobbled the food, bumping her head on my legs as a sign of gratitude between mouthfuls.
After that initial encounter, she visited our home frequently and, eventually, stayed and never left. In short, she decided to adopt us.
Needless to say, I found myself with my first cat, without any preparation ideal for a new pet parent. Luckily, I have family members and friends who are seasoned cat parents, and they were more than happy to guide me through the process.
Knowing what I know now, here’s a simple cat essentials starter kit I would’ve recommended to myself back then and anyone who wants to build a comfortable home for a feline friend.
1. Litter Box and Cat Litter
As a first-time cat parent, one of the things I was nervous about was the smell. After all, I’ve been to cat households before, and let’s just say that not all of them smelled pleasant. In this department, the choice of cat litter and how diligent you are in cleaning the litter box can spell the difference between a fresh, odor-free home and one that announces, “A cat lives here!”
As a rule of thumb, the box should be longer than the cat’s length, with enough space for them to stand, turn, and squat without feeling cramped. It should also be deep enough to hold about 2 to 3 inches of litter.
As for cat litter, there are several options out there, and here are some of the most common ones:
- Bentonite Clay Litter. Made from bentonite clay, this litter forms solid clumps when wet, making it easy to scoop daily. Many prefer this due to strong odor control. However, one drawback is the dust, which could aggravate the condition of cats with respiratory issues.
- Natural/Biodegradable Litter. This eco-friendly option is made from wood, corn, wheat, or recycled paper. Depending on the material, it varies in absorbency and odor control.
- Tofu Litter. This litter is a natural and biodegradable material made from soybean byproducts, usually leftover from tofu production. This is the litter that I buy for my cat. Though it’s not as clumpy as bentonite, I like that it’s dust-free and flushable, making litter cleaning a breeze. It also doesn’t retain nasty smells, as long as I clear it out at least once daily. It also comes in various mild scents, milk being my favorite.
Tip: Place the litter box in a quiet spot where your cat can easily access it.
2. Cat Food
Remember when I fed my cat a can of sausages the first time she came to our patio meowing for food? As it turns out, processed food, especially those that contain a lot of sodium, is a no-no for cats.
Photo by Milda Puga from Pexels
When she started visiting us regularly, I started stocking dry cat food and, later on, wet food.
- Most fur parents recommend keeping cats on an exclusively wet food diet. After all, wet food is high in moisture and low in carbs, which is ideal for cats who are obligate carnivores.
- On the other hand, dry food or kibble can be more affordable and doesn’t spoil quickly. Some also claim that it helps with dental health, though it’s debatable. If you’re offering dry food to your cat, ensure fresh water is accessible, as kibble contains very low moisture.
Though wet food is ideal due to its moisture content, choose the cat food (or a combination of the two) that works well for your cat’s health and fits your budget and lifestyle.
Tip: Look for the AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) “complete and balanced” statement on the cat food label to ensure your cat gets the nutrition it needs.
3. Food Bowl and Water Bowl or Fountain
An appropriate food and water bowl should also be part of your list of cat essentials, as they can directly impact your pet’s eating and drinking habits. Choose a wide, shallow food bowl – almost like a plate – to avoid whisker fatigue. An elevated bowl or putting the food bowl on top of a stand can also be beneficial as it prevents neck strain.
Most cats aren’t big water drinkers, so it’s essential to make it as appealing to them as possible to avoid dehydration and the risk of kidney and urinary issues. After all, cats hail from desert-dwelling ancestors and prefer running water to prevent contamination.
That said, a water fountain can be a good investment. However, you can also encourage your cat to drink from a bowl by keeping the water fresh at all times and putting it in an area away from the food dish.
4. Comfortable Cat Bed
When my cat started living with us, I was concerned that she might be sick since she slept a lot – as in most of the day. I turned to Google and learned that healthy cats sleep an average of 12 to 16 hours a day. Once I understood this, I stopped worrying and ensured she had a cozy spot to feel safe and rested.
Photo by Cats Coming from Pexels
There are many options for a cat bed, including:
- Enclosed Beds. Ideal for cats who love privacy and curling up in a secure, den-like space.
- Cushion Beds. Soft, padded surfaces provide ultimate comfort for lounging and stretching.
- Heated Beds. Great for senior cats or those who love warmth, mimicking the cozy feeling of sleeping in the sun.
Tip: If your cat ignores a new bed at first, try adding a soft blanket or something with your scent to make it more inviting.
5. Carrier for Vet Visits
A cat carrier is a must-have for every fur parent – no wonder it always comes up in gift guides for pet owners. You’ll need it for vet visits and for transporting your cat for travel or emergencies. Unlike simply carrying your cat in your arms, a proper carrier prevents escapes, minimizes anxiety, and offers a familiar space in unfamiliar situations.
Tip: Leave the carrier out at home so your cat gets used to it.
Other Cat Supplies to Consider
Here are other cat supplies you may want to add to your initial list to make your
- Scratching Posts and Pads. Usually made of cardboard or sisal, these posts and pads give your cat something to scratch instead of damaging your furniture.
- Interactive Toys and Enrichment. Mental stimulation is crucial for cats. That said, wand toys, laser pointers, and puzzle feeders will keep them active and engaged, preventing destructive behaviors.
- Grooming Supplies. A brush appropriate for your cat’s hair length can reduce tangles and prevent hairballs. You can also use pet wipes to clean your cat, especially if they don’t like bathing.
- Cat Tree or Window Perch. Cats love vertical spaces, allowing them to observe their surroundings from a high place. Cat trees and window perches can encourage exercise and offer a place where cats can feel safe and elevated.
Photo by Jakub Zerdzicki from Pexels
With the five essential items above, keeping your pet healthy and comfortable wouldn’t take much. From the simple basics to flashy gadgets and pet tech products, it all depends on your budget, lifestyle, and preferences.
Adopting a cat involves opening your home to a new family member and creating a space where the cat feels welcome, loved, and secure. Beyond food, toys, and a cozy bed, your cat needs patience and understanding to thrive and live its best life.