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Axel Gerken is chief editor for DownloadMix.com, DownloadMix.de, Download-Apps.de und GamesMix.de.
Since years he is in touch with the latest developements in software, freeware & games
and has a major overview on all programs at DownloadMix and its partner sites.
Our Reviews
Shareware (22,95 $) | 22.91 MB | Version 1.4.0.856
Transfer files to iPod, iPad or iPhone without iTunes
All owners of Apple devices know the following situation. You have to use iTunes by Apple to transfer multimedia files to mobile devices such as iPhone, iPad or iPod. Therefore, it is hardly surprising that new software products are being developed on this subject. When I was looking for appropriate alternatives, I found software with which I could transfer and copy data between Apple devices without synchronizing with iTunes. The program is called Leawo iTransfer and according to its developer Leawo, it allows users to quickly and securely transfer data between iOS devices (iPad, iPhone, iPod). I took a closer look at the program. Read my review on Leawo iTransfer 1.4.0 here now.
Right after the installation of Leawo iTransfer, I connected my iPhone via USB to my notebook. After a few seconds Leawo iTransfer recognizes my iOS device as an iPhone and automatically shows music, videos, TV shows, books, ring tones and photos that already exists in iTunes and on my phone. Detailed information on every single file is displayed in the area on the right side. And in every subfolder the files are ordered by certain categories such as album, artist, genre etc. Respective files can be clearly listed with titles or more vividly with CD covers. When I want to copy an album or title from an iOS device, in this case my iPhone, to the hard drive, I mark the category music in the media library on the left side and then select the appropriate songs in the main area. It is best to organize songs by album, composer or artist in order to quickly make the desired selection. Following the selection of desired titles, you can transfer the songs to your hard drive with just one click on a “cell phone”-button that you can hardly miss. It could not be easier.
At the same time it is also very simple to transfer an MP3 files (audio) from the computer to your iPhone. Again I select the appropriate category, e.g. music, in my media library. Then I navigate to the main area and there I select the menu File/Add and then go to add file or add folder. Now you just have to select the appropriate file and iTransfer copies the selection to your iPhone. It is just great and very simple.
Leawo iTransfer does not only transfer music files between iOS devices. Using the method described above, iTransfer can also, for example, transfer photos to the iPhone or in the opposite direction to a computer. You just have to select the appropriate category.
iTransfer 1.4.0 – Main features
* Direct transfer / storage of media files, apps and PDF files
* Save files in the same way as on a USB flash drive
In combination with a connected iOS device iTransfer works like a USB flash drive.
* Practical features for backup and file transfer
* Smart filter and powerful file search
* Easily organize playlists
You can comfortably organize playlists without iTunes: add media or delete media from an existing playlists.
* Support of several devices
This alternative to iTunes supports several Apple devices: iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch of all generations.
* User-friendly interface and powerful performance
Summary:
Quickly coping a new song (or an album) to an Apple device is easily done with iTransfer. iTunes is not necessary for that. When looking at the speed and handling of iTransfer alone, you would not want to work without it any more. The program is very user-friendly and receives a “highly recommendable” from me. You can test the program in a free 30-day trial. It is now available to download from DownloadMix.com. Axel Gerken
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Shareware (39,99 $) | 29.16 MB | Version 10.02.05
The latest system optimization!
Over the years Ashampoo has gathered and proven its knowledge of how to constantly optimize, clean and protect Windows computers so that they maintain their performance over a long time. The Ashampoo WinOptimizer is rated to be one of the best optimizing tools in the world. And I am not just saying this, because I have to say it, but it simply is a fact and I am able to assess this objectively based on my long-term experience. In a few days time the latest version of WinOptimizer 10 will be released. I was allowed to have a look at the current BETA version. I am excited whether Ashampoo has achieved a major success again. Please read my review on the new Ashampoo WinOptimizer 10 here now.
The new system optimizer starts up for the first time with a few straightforward questions that are necessary for an individual or rather specific optimization of your computer. The three main functions of the new Ashampoo WinOptimizer 10 are particularly striking. These main functions are cleaning, optimization and protection. When I launch the program on my notebook, it will then show all detected problems. Unfortunately, they are a many. Over 1440 problems, but most are caused by my unclean hard drive. When I click on the one of the very nice designed function buttons, the program clearly describes the problems in more detail. Then can choose which are going to be deleted or kept with a click on OK. Back on the start screen I can start a complete optimization including the three main functions with just one click. And then after a few seconds all problems are fixed and my notebook is free of problems again. This is very easy and uncomplicated.
One new module of the Ashampoo WinOptimizer 10 is the “Link Checker”. This module checks links consisting of icons, source directory, source name, working directory, execution mode or short key combination to launch with a keypad command and, if necessary, suggests editing, if a fault is found. Furthermore, the recognition procedures of the drive cleaner and registry optimizer were improved. That way the drive cleaner can now search more efficient for redundant data and removes it from your hard drive. The registry optimizer is responsible for cleaning the registry. There is a lot of free software on the market, but the main difference makes the rate of recognition the certainly will not be found in free versions. The new registry optimizer scans the registry and finds faulty links and removes or fixes them fully automatic. Safety first - an optimized search algorithm based on long-term experience ensures perfect search and optimization results.
Even as a BETA version, the new system optimizer runs very stable and just feels good to work with. All functions are explained perfectly. If you want, you can always have a look at the help manual to get even more detailed information. One of the latest improvements certainly is the customization for Windows 8. This will not make it easy for competitors to keep up. The further improved user guidance makes a system optimization a piece of cake. Using the new favorites feature, I can compile a list of favorites from numerous optimization modules. This makes it easier to find and run my favorite functions.
Ashampoo WinOptimizer 10 – What’s new?:
- Improved user interface
- User-definable favorites
- File Wiper wipes also free disk space
- Improved recognition for Drive Cleaner and Registry Optimizer
- New modules: Duplicate Finder, Link Checker, Font Manager and Restore Point Manager
- Extended Windows 8 support
Summary:
It is a fundamental task to keep your computer quick, clean and protected. The operating system does not fulfill his task sufficiently. Therefore there is a demand for a software product that is important for every computer user. Ashampoo meets this demand perfectly with its latest generation of the WinOptimizer. Due to its ease of use the system optimizer, everyone can perform at least basic cleaning and system optimization tasks with it. Thanks to the integrated live tuner, optimization processes can even be performed while other processes are running. Therefore the new WinOptimizer 10 surely receives a “highly recommendable” from me. The download will be available from the release on June 6, 2013. Have fun with your optimized system!
Axel Gerken
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Freeware (0,00 $) | 6.68 MB | Version 3.50.1224
AIMP- More than just an audio player
It has become fairly normal to manage your own music collection on your computer.
But it does not necessarily have to be a well-known programme such as iTunes or Winamp. There are several good alternatives of which I would like to present one to you today. The programme from a Russian developer team is called AIMP. AIMP offers a wide range of functions whilst consuming only very few resources. The up-to-date audio player does not only play music, but can also stream and record audio files directly from the integrated Internet radio. Thanks to 32-bit audio the freeware promises to provide very good audio quality. Given the similarity to Winamp, the programme is also known as the Russian alternative to Winamp. Read my review on AIMP 3.50 (BETA) here.
After the installation, the audio player remains discreetly and unobtrusively on the desktop with its minimal interface to play music. A single click extends the program to its usual size and range of functions. The audio library is available via the menu. Albums and songs from the hard drive can easily be added to the audio library. Just do a right click and the album or selected songs will be played directly in the AIMP player. Using the menu button for audio library, the player then shows and plays the previously selected songs.
The order can be set directly within the player. AIMP offers a wide range of functions. Among those is an 18-band equalizer that allows users to choose their own sound settings. Effects such as Reverb, Flanger, Chorus, Pitch, Echo and Speed can be added to songs to create your personal audio experience. It goes without saying that the audio player can also handle several playlists.
You can not only play your music collection, but also listen to radio broadcasts. With the Internet radio browser you can even choose you favorite stations. One click on the button ‘add to playlist’, lists the respective station in the player. This makes it fairly easy and quick to switch between stations and your audio library. You can also use AIMP to stream and record music that is currently playing on a radio station. In the settings menu you can adjust the recording settings, such as quality, storage destination and the structure of the saved file names. With a click on a button in the player you can then record single songs or even complete radio programmes.
The audio player also comes along with a cover art downloader that downloads missing covers from the Internet. Another really comfortable feature of AIMP is its scheduler.
Main features AIMP 3.50:
* Output formats
.CDA, .AAC, .AC3, .APE, .DTS, .FLAC, .IT, .MIDI, .MO3, .MOD, .M4A, .M4B, .MP1, .MP2, .MP3,
.MPC, .MTM, .OFR, .OGG, .OPUS, .RMI, .S3M, .SPX, .TAK, .TTA, .UMX, .WAV, .WMA, .WV, .XM
* Output support
DirectSound / ASIO / WASAPI / WASAPI Exclusive
* 18-band equalizer and built-in sound effects
Reverb, Flanger, Chorus, Pitch, Tempo, Echo, Speed, Bass, Enhancer, Voice Remover
* 32-bit audio processing
* Works with multiple playlists
* Imports audio data from CDs
* Multilingual
* And lots more
Summary:
AIMP proves that an audio player does not have to use up many system resources.
And at the same time AIMP offers a comprehensive range of functions with Internet radio, 18-band equalizer, multiple playlists and a scheduler. Skin settings allow users to change the appearance of the player to their liking. The free audio player AMIP receives a highly recommendable from me. The BETA version of AMIP (v3.5) is now available to download for free.
Axel Gerken
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Freeware (0,00 $) | 4.65 KB | Version 6.504
Backups - free, easy and quick
I have already written a lot about the importance of backups here. The example of "BackUp Maker" proofes that good backup software does not necessarily have to be expensive. BackUp Maker is not only free, but also very easy and quick to use. So if you are looking for an alternative for your backup software, then you should try "BackUp Maker". First of all, please read my review of BackUp Maker 6.5 here.
Right after the installation, it becomes obvious that the developer ASCOMP follows a clear line with the "BackUp Maker". The focus is on data backups as well as recovery of lost data and unnecessary functions just are not included. After starting the program the user can choose one of the two main functions, backup and storing of data or data recovery depending on the user's needs. Firstly, I have had a closer look at the backup function. It just takes a click on the backup button and here we go. The friendly backup wizard supports new users with their backup, but can also be disabled optionally. I allowed the wizard to "pick me up" at the start and to guide me through the backup process. After that I could quickly select user files (documents, pictures, music,...), browser settings but also emails. Alternatively I could also select specific folders on my hard drive for the backup process. In the next step I defined a point in time when the backup should be done. This could be, for example, every day at 6 p.m., once a week or every then ten minutes. I could also select the kind of backup, this means a partial or full backup. Then I still had to select a location where the backup file will be saved and at last I had to enter a name for the backup file. After that the completely configured backup process and its current status were displayed on the splash screen.'
"BackUp Maker" is launched together with the operating system and therefore the previously configured backup process runs fully automatic in the background, if desired. The saved data can be stored in any folder, a USB flash drive, an external hard drive, an FTP server or automatically be burned to a CD or DVD. All backups are stored as a compressed ZIP file. In the current version you can also decide on an interval during which automatic backup processes may or may not be executed. Such an interval could be during lunch break or after work, for example. This way the "BackUp Maker" does not run while you are still working on your computer.
"BackUp Maker" 6.5 - Main features/backup types
* Full backup
Backup of all selected files and folders
* Partial backup
Backup of new/changed files since the last partial or full backup
* Backup of changed files
Backup of new/changed files of a user-defined period
* Combined execution
Combine full and partial backups
* Archive bit backup
Backup only files with archive bit set true / delete archive bit
* Backup generations
Creation of several backup instances/generations
Summary:
Software can be so simple and at the same time does not have to be less good than shareware software. The user guidance in the current version of the "BackUp Maker" turned out very well. You can either be guided by the wizard or if you are an experienced user, configure the expert settings for your backups yourself. More backup is not really necessary for computers. The program "BackUp Maker" receives a "highly recommendable" from me and can now be downloaded free at DownloadMix.com and used for free (private use only). (Axel Gerken)
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Freeware (0,00 €) | 11.5 MB | Version 2013
Music for free
There are different ways to fill your music library with songs. The classic method to buy a CD and then import the songs or buy music online at iTunes and others are very well known. There are also ways to download music directly and legally from the Internet. Especially when I’m looking for rare songs or a recording of a live concert, I go to the famous video portal YouTube to search for those titles. Here you can download music and videos free for personal use to copy it to your MP3 player or iPhone. Abelssoft recently released a current version of the YouTube Song Downloader 2013. I tested the Song Downloader and you can read my review of the YouTube Song Downloader 2013 here.
The basic version of YouTube Song Downloader 2013 is free, but you have to register your version with the software producer. After installation, the program starts up with a simple user interface from you can directly search for videos and music on YouTube. I like listening to live recordings; therefore I decided to look for a live concert of AC/DC for my review. AC/DC is a very famous hard rock band from Australia and their music is certainly not everybody’s cup of tea. But I quite like it. I start my search by entering the search term „ACDC live“ and immediately get an extensive list of titles by the well-known band. In the top place there is a live concert from the year 2011 (AC/DC - Live At River Plate 2011). The results list contains not only titles, but also additional information and the length of the video clips. A lager preview of a video’s first frame is shown when the mouse cursor hovers over and then stops on the title of video for a moment. This way you get a first impression of a video and it is easier to decide, if it is the video clip you are looking for. If you like, you can also click on the title and watch the video in a separate window. However, before the video starts, you can decide to start streaming only the audio track or the complete video. To select this option, you will easily find a button directly beneath the preview of the video. All your running downloads are listed in menu „Downloads“. If you don’t want to use a standard video format, such as AVI or the audio format MP3, you can select other formats in the menu settings. You can also adjust the optimum audio MP3 quality of 192kbps, to brilliant 320kbps or to standard 128kbps. It is amazing how easy it is to build a free large music library. That’s really great performance and it’s for free.
The main features of YouTube Song Downloader 2013
* Find music – just enter artist or song title in to search field
* Search albums – with the album search feature is it easy to find and download a complete album
* All downloads at a glance – overview of all running and completed downloads
* Formats - complete support of MP3, OGG, MP4 and AVI
Summary:
If you like not only mainstream music, but also other music styles and live recordings, I can highly recommend the free YouTube Song Downloader 2013 to you. With the YouTube Song Downloader 2013 is it easy and free to build up and expand your music library. The search for music is simple, but very efficient. This program is very user friendly and can be used free without limitations. The current version of this freeware can now be downloaded at DownloadMix. (Axel Gerken)
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