Modern Simple Living

Gear Review Building a Fountain Pen Collection: A Multi-Year Roadmap *Strategizing, studying, and curating a purposeful selection of writing instruments.* 3 Initial Pens 6 Target Total ~$290 Total Outlay 9 Years Time Span Table of Contents ① Current Inventory ② Planned Acquisitions ③ Collection Updates Section I Current Inventory My collection currently consists of three Pilot Metropolitan pens and a variety of inks for daily use.   → Pilot Metropolitan Classic (Black) — The base of the current collection. → Pilot Metropolitan Retro Pop (Turquoise) — Reliable everyday writer. → Pilot Metropolitan Retro Pop (Purple) — Used frequently for intensive study sessions. → Iroshizuku Ink (Kon-Peki) — Vibrant blue ink. → Iroshizuku Ink (Murasaki-Shikibu) — Rich purple ink. Section II Planned Acquisitions I have curated a list of desired additions to increase the variety and quality of my rotation over time. Pens & Accessories Item Est. Price Target Date Pilot Custom 74 Black $7...

Gear Review Pilot Metropolitan Retro Pop Collection Review A deep dive into the starter fountain pen that stays in the daily rotation 2 Pens 1 Year+ Usage ~25ml Ink Consumed Table of Contents ① The Benefits of Multiple Pens ② Packaging Contents ③ Nib Performance ④ Update: 11/17/18 Section I The Benefits of Multiple Pens I’m glad I purchased additional Metropolitan fountain pens. I recently ordered two pens from the Retro Pop collection in Turquoise and Purple. Both feature fine point nibs and, aside from the color and design patterns on the cross-section, they are identical to the Metropolitan Classic collection. Having several options to choose from makes life easier than relying on a single pen.   Section II Packaging Contents The pens come in the same standard packaging as other Pilot Metropolitan models. This setup makes the Metropolitan one of the best starter pens, as it provides everything needed to begin writing. → Black Cartridge — A single standard cartridge include...

Gear Review A Guide to Entry-Level Pilot Fountain Pens *Establishing criteria for the perfect starter pen* $10–$60 Price Range 13 Models 1 Ongoing Research Project Section I Defining Entry-Level As I delve into the various models of entry-level Pilot fountain pens, I’ve established some criteria for what qualifies as "entry level."   Evaluation Criteria → Price Range — $10 to $60 MSRP → Refillable Options — Must feature standard refillable systems such as converters or cartridges Section II List of Models This list will help me compare and choose the best option as I continue my research: → Pilot 78G — A classic, lightweight fountain pen often praised for its performance. → Pilot Cavalier — A slim, elegant model suited for those who prefer a thinner grip. → Pilot Cocoon — Known as the Japanese market version of the Metropolitan, featuring a sleek, modern aesthetic. → Pilot Ecrino — An often overlooked model that brings unique styling to the entry-level lineup. → Pil...

Gear Review The Case of the Missing Platinum 3776 *Reflecting on a lost favorite and the lessons learned in EDC management* ~$75 Total Cost 1 Gold Nib Pen 1 Lost Item Table of Contents ① The Loss ② Current Alternatives ③ Future Considerations Section I The Loss It appears I've misplaced and possibly lost my beloved Platinum Century 3776 fountain pen. This is unfortunate, as it cost me quite a bit of money, estimating around $75 ($65 for the pen and $10 for the converter).   Section II Current Alternatives While I still have my Pilot Metropolitan, it simply isn't the same as having a gold nib pen. The writing experience with the Platinum is unmatched, and I truly miss it. The Comparison Pen Model Nib Type Status Platinum 3776 Gold Lost Pilot Metropolitan Steel Active Section III Future Considerations I’m not ready yet to invest in another expensive fountain pen. Instead, I need to think about how to better ensure I avoid misplacing and losing such valuable items in the fut...

Gear Review A Review of the AKG EO-IG955 Earbuds Evaluating the Samsung Galaxy S8+ stock audio experience $99 Retail Price ~$25 Real-world Value 3 Competitive Models Compared Table of Contents ① Basic Features ② Sound Quality ③ Noise Isolation ④ Build Quality & Value ⑤ Comparison Overview ⑥ Closing Thoughts Section I Basic Features These headphones are a nice pair to receive for free, and while it's challenging to find detailed specs online, here’s what I gathered regarding their functionality:   → In-Line Microphone — Included for hands-free calling. → Volume Control — Features dedicated Up/Down buttons. → Pause/Resume Functionality — Integrated controls for media playback. → Cabling — Braided cloth until the earbud split, transitioning to rubber. The braided design helps reduce tangling, although a full braided cable would have been ideal. Section II Sound Quality In terms of sound quality, they compare favorably to Apple Earbuds, with a slight advantage in the uppe...