Yeah, "felt like an idiot after spending like 300 bucks on parts he didn't need" is basically how it goes. It's like that thing where you're trying to fix a squeaky door and you oil the hinges three times before realizing the frame is just slightly out of square. We get real focused on one part of the problem and forget the simple stuff right in front of us. I've done it myself with my truck and also with stuff like a slow draining kitchen sink - bought a new disposal and everything, turns out the pipe had a chunk of lard stuck in it. The simple fix always feels like a trick you should've known. It's a good reminder to check the basics first before you start dumping money into fancy parts.

Man I used to think string lines were just for straight fences, but that actually makes a ton of sense for curves. Might have to try it myself next time.

pat_harris, that Bangkok example is spot on but just a small thing - those phone booths actually absorb noise way better than whispering, so it makes sense from a design perspective. I think the real issue is that whispering creates this weird tension where everyone's trying to listen in, whereas a quick call in a booth is contained and nobody's straining to hear. Most coworking spaces I've seen actually have a rule about calls being okay in designated spots, it's the side conversations that get people annoyed (especially if you're sitting next to them).

Tbh I'd still probably manage to sleep through an air raid siren with those on, knowing my luck with headphones. Ngl that sounds way too useful for my chaotic lifestyle.

wait wait wait - they told you it was pressure tested to 100 meters and it flooded at 60 feet? and the o-ring groove had a crack you could only see after prying the seal out? that's the kind of stuff nightmares are made of man. i had a buddy who bought a used housing for his canon and the seller swore it was "freshly serviced" but turned out they just put a new coat of silicone on an old crusty oring and called it a day. luckily he tested it in a sink first before taking it anywhere deep.