Presenting Augustman’s Tech Gift Guide for X’mas 2020

For The Audiophile – NAD M33

Audio reproduction is all about purity, and that entails the total absence of artifacts like distortion. NAD’s M33 employs Eigentakt – a self-clocking amplification technology that ignores pesky variables such as speaker load, volume level and signal content. Through this, the NAD M33 achieves ultra-low levels of noise and distortion. The result is a 200-watt Class D solid-state amplifier capable of tube-like response and a total harmonic distortion and intermodulation distortion not exceeding 0.00017 per cent across all frequencies and power levels. Sounds like a lot of techno-mumbo-jumbo but really, the NAD M33 is all about conveying pure listening bliss (your ears will thank us later).

For The Smartphone Power-User – Samsung Note20 Ultra 5G

Samsung is leading the charge in high-performance Android-powered smartphones, and the Note20 Ultra 5G represents their latest salvo. As always, the S Pen (upgraded with improved latency and battery life) adds a new dimension to the modern smartphone experience with the inclusion of five new gestures, or Air Actions. With its ease of navigation, flagship 5G-compatible microprocessor and 8K video recording, the Note 20 Ultra 5G is the perfect companion for professionals and content creators alike.

For The Shutterbug – Leica M10-R

When it comes to rangefinder cameras, it’s impossible to dismiss the historical importance of the Leica M series. The newest addition to the collection – the M10-R – sports the same dimensions as the M10, but has a higher resolution imaging sensor of over 40 megapixels, allowing photographers to produce images of greater detail. Furthermore, the absence of an anti-alias filter means that the M10-R captures all the detail the sensor resolves, making it well-suited for landscape and architectural photography. A rear-panel touchscreen is another update seen with the M10-R, which can be handy for setting a focal point.

For The Fitness Buff – Klipsch T5 II True Wireless Sports

Active individuals often find a need to compromise between quality performance and rugged build quality when it comes to sports earphones. This isn’t the remotest case with the Klipsch T5 II True Wireless Sports. The IP67 water- and dust-proof rating don’t just apply to the earphones, but its carrying case as well. The case also features an integrated desiccant module for moisture removal. After a period of use, the module can then be removed and heated in a microwave for a quick “recharge”. No questions about reliability here too, and since its Klipsch, you already know it’ll deliver on the audio front as well.

For The ANC-Dependent – Sony WF-1000XM4

Whether it’s on a crowded subway or roaring aeroplane, the ability to block out noise on-demand is never an unwelcome feature. What’s even better is if you’re able to substitute it with your favourite playlist. Sony returns with the WF-1000XM4, the latest iteration of its ever-popular active noise-cancelling (ANC) headphones. These “cans” are quintessentially Sony; looks, construction and of course, sound. Deep bass and fat mids punch through with clarity and precision – perfect for contemporary music. Then there’s the ANC, which comes with Atmospheric Pressure Optimisation specifically designed for air travel.

For The Do-It-All Professional – HP ProBook x360 435 G7

Sure – having a laptop that can easily convert into a tablet is nifty, but what about data security? HP’s ProBook x360 435 G7 combines the security features of the brand’s popular EliteBook series with the versatility of the ProBook’s 360-degree design. The AMD Ryzen-powered ProBook x360 435 G7 uses HP’s in-house Sure Sense and Sure Start to protect users from malware and firmware attacks. The built-in HP Privacy Camera feature also fields a physical shutter to protect unsuspecting users from hidden surveillance.

For The Caffeine Lover – Morning Machine

What makes the Morning Machine different from other capsule coffee machines? For starters, this nifty little gadget works across 12 speciality roasters and over 30 different coffee capsules. Users can access partner recipes via the proprietary Morning app and select their desired brew. In turn, having your daily cuppa is just a matter of picking the appropriate capsule and using the Morning Machine’s OLED dial interface to kickstart the whole process. There’s room for experimentation as well; the Morning app allows users to create personalised recipes and even adapt partner recipes to their preferences.