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    This is the most helpful new Linux tool I’ve tried in years – here’s why and how I use it

    Jack Wallen / Elyse Betters Picaro / ZDNETHow many applications have you installed that promised to make your desktop life a bit easier? I cannot even begin to total up the software I’ve tried that made such overtures. That’s why, any time I see such a tool advertised or available for Linux, I grow immediately doubtful. Sometimes, an app shrugs off that doubt to prove itself invaluable. Such is the case with Linux Assistant. Also: 5 Linux terminal apps better than your default – and they’re all freeThis handy little app helps you search your system for files and folders, can help you install applications and upgrade your system, offers self-learning search, runs a security check, and so much more. I could go on and on about what Linux Assistant can do, but we’d spend a lot of time covering it. I’ll show you how much it can do by way of a demonstration. Also: How to use Linux without ever touching the terminalBefore I continue, know that Linux Assistant is still in beta, so there will be problems with the software. That is to be expected. Let’s see what this app is all about. More

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    The default TV setting you should turn off ASAP – and why you shouldn’t wait to do it

    Kerry Wan/ZDNETI love March Madness, at least when my team is invited to the Big Dance. I even enjoy watching other teams play their hearts out like everything is on the line — because it is. While NCAA basketball continues to be broadcast in standard HD, the games can look clear, bright, and beautiful on most modern TVs. Part of that appeal, though, is owed to your TV’s motion-smoothing capabilities. Also: Why I recommend this Hisense model over the Samsung Frame TV – even if it wasn’t $1,000 cheaperFor many people, motion smoothing is only appropriate for gaming and watching live sports; enthusiasts typically prefer turning off the feature to watch anything else because it can detract from the filmmaker’s original intent, making on-screen images seem artificial or hyper-realistic. This is what’s called the “soap opera effect.” It’s a perfectly descriptive metaphor that probably requires no explanation. You can see it all too well: the cinematic film should not look like a daytime soap; you shouldn’t feel like you’re on the set with the actors. But it is appealing to feel like you’re in the stadium watching your team with thousands of fans. The soap opera effect makes sense for live sporting event broadcasts. More

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    Why I recommend these DJ headphones to all audio professionals – especially at their price

    <!–> ZDNET’s key takeaways The OneOdio Studio Max 1 headphones are available now on the official site for $169.99 These headphones offer wired and wireless options for connecting to a traditional source and produce a well-blended sound If you’re looking for headphones to use with your phone, look elsewhere. –> My best friend has been […] More