My gear so far in 2025

I read a post last week that listed out their favorite apps, gear, etc. Prompted me to start gathering my favorite applications and gear. This will cover from every day stuff to specific stuff like music and photography.

Did I miss anything? If so - feel free to reach out to me at hello@whisperingyak.com and let me know.

Day to Day apps

WordPerfect: WordPerfect is a timeless word processing software known for its robust formatting capabilities and user-friendly interface. Offering extensive control over document layout and design, WordPerfect remains a favorite among legal professionals and writers. Its reveal codes feature provides unparalleled precision, ensuring every document looks exactly as intended. Whether you're drafting a simple letter or crafting a complex manuscript, WordPerfect stands out with its versatility and reliability.

Excel: Excel, the powerhouse spreadsheet application from Microsoft, revolutionizes data management and analysis. With its comprehensive suite of functions, formulas, and data visualization tools, Excel enables users to transform raw data into actionable insights. From budgeting and financial modeling to project tracking and reporting, Excel's flexibility caters to both personal and professional needs. Its intuitive interface and powerful capabilities make it an indispensable tool for anyone seeking to organize, analyze, and present data effectively.

The Bat: The Bat! is a highly secure email client designed for individuals and organizations that prioritize privacy and efficiency. Known for its robust encryption features, The Bat! ensures that your email communications remain confidential. Its customizable interface and powerful filtering options make managing multiple email accounts a breeze. With a focus on security, speed, and reliability, The Bat! is an excellent choice for those who demand the best in email client performance.

Orion: Orion is a cutting-edge web browser that combines speed, privacy, and innovation. Built with a focus on user experience, Orion offers lightning-fast browsing and seamless navigation. Its advanced privacy features, including built-in ad-blocking and anti-tracking tools, ensure a secure and unobtrusive online experience. Orion's sleek design and customizable options make it a standout choice for users seeking a modern and efficient browsing solution. Explore the web like never before with Orion's unique blend of performance and privacy.

Scribus: Scribus is a powerful, open-source desktop publishing software that brings professional-quality page layout to everyone. Ideal for creating newsletters, brochures, magazines, and other print materials, Scribus offers a wide range of layout tools and features to help you design stunning documents. With its user-friendly interface and support for various file formats, Scribus makes it easy to create and edit complex designs. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned designer, Scribus provides the flexibility and precision you need to bring your creative visions to life.

Agenda: Agenda is a unique note-taking application designed for iOS, iPadOS, and macOS that seamlessly integrates your notes with your calendar. This date-focused app allows users to plan and document projects with ease, emphasizing the importance of time in their workflows. I do wish this was also available for Windows as my work pc's are windows...but still its excellent.

Music

MediaMonkey: MediaMonkey is a comprehensive media management software designed for serious music collectors. It allows users to manage large libraries, tag, and organize music files with ease. With powerful features like automatic tagging, advanced playlist management, and seamless synchronization with various devices, MediaMonkey ensures that your music collection is always in perfect harmony. Whether you're a casual listener or an audiophile, MediaMonkey provides the tools you need to enjoy your music to the fullest.

Zune: Zune was Microsoft's digital media player and media management software, known for its sleek design and user-friendly interface. It offered a unique social listening experience through the "Zune Social" feature, allowing users to connect and share music with friends. Although Zune has been discontinued, it remains fondly remembered by many for its innovative approach to music and media consumption.

mp3tag: mp3tag is a powerful and easy-to-use tool for editing metadata of audio files. Supporting a wide range of formats, including MP3, FLAC, and AAC, mp3tag allows users to batch edit tags, download album covers, and organize their music collection with precision. Its straightforward interface and robust features make it an essential tool for anyone looking to keep their audio library in order.

SoundSpectrum G-Force: SoundSpectrum G-Force is a mesmerizing music visualization software that transforms your audio experience into a stunning visual journey. Compatible with various media players, G-Force offers customizable visual effects that sync perfectly with your music. Its dynamic and captivating visuals make it a favorite among music enthusiasts who want to add an extra layer of enjoyment to their listening sessions.

PlexAmp: PlexAmp is a sleek and powerful music player designed to enhance your music listening experience. Built by the creators of Plex, PlexAmp offers a beautifully designed interface, intelligent playlists, and seamless integration with your Plex media server. With features like gapless playback, advanced audio enhancements, and offline support, PlexAmp ensures that your music sounds better than ever, whether you're at home or on the go.

I also run plexamp on 2 raspberry pi's with sound card expansions. These plug into my sound systems/sound bars. They run headless so I use plexamp on my phone to connect to them. I control via phone, but listen through sound system. Using the sound card upgrade module truly makes the sound output so much better and richer. I've linked them below.

Plex: Plex is a versatile media server and streaming platform that allows users to organize, stream, and share their media collection across various devices. With its intuitive interface and robust library management, Plex makes it easy to access your movies, TV shows, music, and photos from anywhere. Its powerful features, including live TV, DVR capabilities, and personalized recommendations, make Plex the ultimate solution for all your media needs.

Sound Blaster X-Fi: The Sound Blaster X-Fi is a high-quality sound card that enhances your audio experience for gaming, music, and movies. With its advanced audio processing technologies, the X-Fi delivers crystal-clear sound and immersive audio effects. It features multiple connectivity options, customizable settings, and support for high-resolution audio, making it an excellent choice for audiophiles and gamers alike. Experience superior sound quality and precision with the Sound Blaster X-Fi.

Superlux HD668B: The Superlux HD668B headphones are designed for professional audio monitoring, featuring a semi-open dynamic design that delivers high-resolution sound quality. With precision-tuned acoustic chambers and extended bass response, these headphones ensure an accurate listening experience ideal for studio environments. Their lightweight construction and comfortable ear pads provide long-lasting wear, while the detachable single-side cable adds convenience for users on the go.

Raspberry Pi: The Raspberry Pi 4 is a powerful single-board computer that offers significant improvements in processing speed, multimedia performance, and connectivity compared to its predecessors. It features dual micro HDMI ports for dual monitor support and is available in multiple RAM configurations (2GB, 4GB, and 8GB) to suit various applications. The Raspberry Pi 4 is perfect for both educational purposes and advanced computing projects, making it a versatile choice for hobbyists and professionals alike.

InnoMaker Raspberry Pi HIFI DAC HAT: The InnoMaker Raspberry Pi HIFI DAC HAT is an audio card expansion designed to enhance the sound quality of Raspberry Pi projects. Utilizing the PCM5122 DAC, it minimizes jitter and supports high sample rates up to 384 kHz at 32-bit resolution. This compact HAT connects easily to various Raspberry Pi models, making it an excellent choice for DIY audio enthusiasts looking to elevate their audio output.

Audio-Technica AT-LP60X-BW: The Audio-Technica AT-LP60X-BW is a fully automatic belt-drive stereo turntable that combines modern convenience with classic vinyl playback. Designed for both newcomers and seasoned audiophiles, this turntable effortlessly plays 33-1/3 and 45 RPM records, making it versatile for any vinyl collection.

Photography

Adobe Lightroom:
Adobe Lightroom is a powerful photo editing and management software designed for photographers of all levels. With its intuitive interface and comprehensive set of tools, Lightroom allows users to organize, edit, and share their photos seamlessly. From basic adjustments to advanced editing techniques, Lightroom provides the flexibility and precision needed to enhance your images. Its cloud-based storage ensures your photos are always accessible, making Lightroom an essential tool for any photography enthusiast.

Nikon Z50:
The Nikon Z50 is a compact and versatile mirrorless camera that delivers stunning image quality and performance. Featuring a 20.9-megapixel DX-format sensor and the powerful EXPEED 6 image processor, the Z50 captures sharp, vibrant photos and 4K UHD videos. Its lightweight design and ergonomic grip make it perfect for travel and everyday use. With a wide range of compatible lenses and advanced features like Eye Detection Autofocus, the Nikon Z50 is an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced photographers.

MacBook Pro:
The MacBook Pro is Apple's high-performance laptop designed for professionals and creatives. With its sleek design, powerful processors, and vibrant Retina display, the MacBook Pro delivers exceptional performance and visuals. Whether you're editing videos, designing graphics, or coding software, the MacBook Pro's advanced features and long battery life ensure you can tackle any task with ease. Its robust ecosystem of apps and seamless integration with other Apple devices make the MacBook Pro an indispensable tool for productivity and creativity.

iPad Pro 11:
The iPad Pro 11 is a powerful and versatile tablet that redefines what you can do with a mobile device. Featuring the M1 chip, a stunning Liquid Retina display, and support for the Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard, the iPad Pro 11 offers desktop-level performance in a portable form factor. Whether you're editing photos, creating artwork, or multitasking with ease, the iPad Pro 11 provides the power and flexibility to bring your ideas to life. Its advanced features and robust app ecosystem make it the ultimate tool for productivity and creativity on the go.

Canon Pro 200:
The Canon Pro 200 is a versatile and high-performance printer designed for photographers and artists who demand exceptional print quality. With its 8-color LUCIA PRO ink system, it delivers vibrant colors and deep blacks, ensuring that every print captures the essence of the original image. The Pro 200 supports a wide range of media, including fine art papers and canvas, making it ideal for both professional and personal projects.

Gaming

Xbox Series X: The Xbox Series X is Microsoft's flagship gaming console, delivering unparalleled performance and speed. With its custom-designed processor, it supports 4K gaming at up to 120 frames per second, ensuring smooth and immersive gameplay. The console features a vast library of games, backward compatibility with thousands of titles, and the Game Pass subscription service, providing gamers with access to a rotating catalog of games. Its sleek design and powerful hardware make it a must-have for any serious gamer.

Playstation 5: The PlayStation 5 is Sony's next-generation console that redefines gaming with its lightning-fast load times and stunning graphics. Powered by a custom SSD and advanced GPU, the PS5 supports 4K resolution and ray tracing, enhancing visual fidelity. The innovative DualSense controller offers haptic feedback and adaptive triggers, providing a more immersive gaming experience. With exclusive titles and a robust online ecosystem, the PS5 is a top choice for gamers seeking cutting-edge technology and engaging gameplay.

Logitech G515: The Logitech G515 LIGHTSPEED TKL is a tenkeyless gaming keyboard designed for competitive gamers. Featuring LIGHTSPEED wireless technology, it delivers a lag-free connection and exceptional battery life. The customizable RGB lighting allows users to personalize their setup, while the durable construction ensures longevity. With low-profile mechanical switches, the G515 offers a responsive typing experience, making it ideal for both gaming and productivity.

Logitech G309: The Logitech G309 LIGHTSPEED is a lightweight gaming mouse that combines precision and performance. Equipped with LIGHTSPEED wireless technology, it provides a fast and reliable connection, ensuring no lag during intense gaming sessions. The HERO sensor delivers up to 25,600 DPI, allowing for exceptional tracking accuracy. Its ergonomic design and customizable buttons make it a versatile choice for gamers looking for a competitive edge.

SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro: The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro is a premium gaming headset that offers exceptional sound quality and comfort. With its advanced audio drivers and customizable EQ settings, it delivers immersive soundscapes for an enhanced gaming experience. The headset features a dual-battery system for uninterrupted play, and its comfortable ear cushions ensure long-lasting wear. With a retractable microphone and sleek design, the Arctis Nova Pro is perfect for gamers who demand both performance and style.