Book description
"Another gem from one of the world's justly celebrated historians specializing in unusual and always fascinating subjects and people." -- Booklist (starred review)The revered New York Times bestselling author traces the development of technology from the Industrial Age to the Digital Age to explore the single component crucial to advancement--precision--in a superb history that is both an homage and a warning for our future.The rise of manufacturing could not have happened without an attention to precision. At the dawn of the Industrial Revolution in eighteenth-century England, standards of measurement were established, giving way to the development of machine tools--machines that make machines. Eventually, the application of precision tools and methods resulted in the creation and mass production of items from guns and glass to mirrors, lenses, and cameras--and eventually gave way to further breakthroughs, including gene splicing, microchips, and the Hadron Collider.Simon Winchester takes us back to origins of the Industrial Age, to England where he introduces the scientific minds that helped usher in modern production: John Wilkinson, Henry Maudslay, Joseph Bramah, Jesse Ramsden, and Joseph Whitworth. It was Thomas Jefferson who later exported their discoveries to the fledgling United States, setting the nation on its course to become a manufacturing titan. Winchester moves forward through time, to today's cutting-edge developments occurring around the world, from America to Western Europe to Asia.As he introduces the minds and methods that have changed the modern world, Winchester explores fundamental questions. Why is precision important? What are the different tools we use to measure it? Who has invented and perfected it? Has the pursuit of the ultra-precise in so many facets of human life blinded us to other things of equal value, such as an appreciation for the age-old traditions of craftsmanship, art, and high culture? Are we missing something that reflects the world as it is, rather than the world as we think we would wish it to be? And can the precise and the natural co-exist in society?
Pixie Soldier
ListenBook's support for various formats ensures that no audiobook is out of reach. The app is perfect for people who love to listen to books at night.
RedFisher
Audiobooks at my fingertips โ this app's ease of use is a game-changer. I'm amazed by the attention to detail, from automatic metadata extraction to customizable settings. ListenBook has all the features I need in an audiobook app. My top choice! I love how ListenBook makes it easy to organize my audiobook library. The app supports all formats, and the import process is a breeze. The playback controls are responsive, and the sound quality is excellent. Highly recommend!
Zero Corn
With ListenBook, I've found a convenient and enjoyable way to engage with audiobooks and educational content. This app's user-friendly interface has made audiobook listening a breeze, even for a tech novice like me. I love the download options. ListenBook gives me so many ways to get my audiobooks onto my device.
Mint Ness
Language courses on audiobooks helped me pick up a new language effortlessly. ListenBook's dedication to delivering high-quality sound and user-friendly features has won me over. I never thought I'd find an app that supports such a wide range of audiobook formats. ListenBook is a true gem!
Snapdragon
I can't get enough of this app's convenience โ it has transformed my audiobook journey into a joyous experience. ๐งโโ๏ธโ Savoring moments of tranquility with a cup of tea and captivating tales! ๐ต๐ The noise reduction feature is a game-changer for clearer dictaphone recordings. Looping playback of a single track helps me focus and absorb complex content. Not the best audiobook I've heard but far from the worst. The production quality was good and there were no major issues with the narration.
Lady Fantastic
This app has made audiobook listening an integral part of my daily routine โ it's a habit I cherish. With this app, I've turned my everyday moments into meaningful opportunities for growth and learning. Download options are versatile, making it easy to get audiobooks from various sources. The audio filters make a noticeable difference. ListenBook provides an excellent listening experience. ListenBook is the ultimate audiobook player. The app supports all formats, and the import process is seamless. I love the playback history featureโitโs so easy to revisit my favorite parts. Highly recommend this app!
Bourbon Mirage
Download via WiFi, WebDAV, iTunes โ options galore to suit everyone's preferences. Adjusting the tone of the voice is a unique and fun feature. I can customize the narration to my liking. This app has transformed my daily commute into a captivating journey of knowledge and entertainment.
WanderWord
๐ถโโ๏ธ๐ Walking my way through exciting narratives โ this app makes exercise more fun! ๐๏ธ๐ง As an audiobook enthusiast, I'm in awe of ListenBook's advanced features. The ability to adjust the reader's voice tone is a unique and fun addition. The app is so easy to set up. I was listening to my books in no time. ListenBook is a game-changer for audiobook lovers. The app supports all formats, and the import process is seamless. I love the playback history featureโitโs so easy to revisit my favorite parts. Highly recommend this app!
Avenge Paws
This app has completely transformed my commute โ I look forward to it now! This app's convenience has turned my daily chores into moments of intellectual discovery โ a win-win! ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is a unique touch that adds personalization to my audiobook journey. CarPlay compatibility takes my driving experience to a whole new level. Audiobooks on the road have never been better.
BloodEater
Audiobook joy made simple โ this app's ease of use is a game-changer. High-quality playback even with complex formats like FLAC. Impressive! Adjustable playback speed and volume controls are fantastic features. The interface is so clean and clutter-free. Itโs a pleasure to use.
LifeRobber
I've become the storyteller of my family, sharing the amazing audiobooks I've discovered. ๐ฅ Audiobook enjoyment at the tap of a finger โ this app's functionality is a testament to modern convenience. ๐ฑ๐ Finally, an app that supports all audiobook formats! Flawless playback. ListenBook has redefined my workout routine. The controls are so user-friendly.
Mafia Rapunzel
๐โโ๏ธ๐ Combining exercise and exploration โ this app keeps me motivated on my daily jogs! ๐โโ๏ธ๐ Adjusting the narrator's voice tone is a fantastic feature. It adds a personal touch.
LifeRobber
ListenBook has turned my audio content into an immersive, personalized, and unforgettable experience. Library organization is brilliant. No more cluttered audiobook collection. With features like auto-rewind, I never lose my place when I pause listening. ListenBook has streamlined my audiobook experience. It's a must-have app for enthusiasts. The app is very user-friendly. ListenBook makes listening to audiobooks a breeze.
Good-lookinโ
ListenBook has revolutionized my audio experience, making it both personalized and engaging. I can't imagine my life without this app โ it's my constant companion for literary adventures. ListenBook has completely changed how I enjoy audiobooks. The app is packed with features like customizable skip intervals, playback speed, and sleep timers. The interface is clean and easy to navigate. Five stars!
Pink Stream
๐ถ๐ Replacing tunes with stories โ my house is alive with the sound of narration! ๐ง๐ ๐ผ Enhancing work-from-home productivity โ audiobooks make even the most routine tasks a delight. ๐ป๐ The interface is beautiful and functional. ListenBook is my go-to app for audiobooks. The app is so versatile. It works with all my audiobook formats.
Cool Whip
The ListenBook app has transformed my device into a portable audiobook library that I can carry everywhere. Has every feature I need. My top choice for audiobooks! Fairly enjoyable, but forgettable. I didnโt have any major complaints, but I also donโt see myself revisiting this one. It was a decent way to spend a few hours, though.
Rooster
I'm hooked on this app's curated content โ it's like having a personal librarian. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a creative way to share the love of literature. Perfect for listening to educational materials. Highly efficient and useful.
Voluntary
The minimalist interface and intuitive settings make for an amazing user experience. ListenBook has made audiobook listening a personalized and enriching journey. Effortlessly managing my audiobook library โ this app's design is a triumph. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a true savior for immersive listening, even in busy surroundings. The app is so reliable. Iโve never had any issues with it.
Tin Fox
ListenBook's dedication to optimizing for iOS 16 ensures a seamless experience on the latest devices. Audiobooks at my fingertips โ this app's ease of use is a game-changer.
Onion King
Listening to books while doing chores? This app makes it possible! With this app, I've discovered a whole new way to enjoy literature. This app is a must-have for anyone who loves audiobooks. The interface is intuitive, and the app supports all formats. I love the auto-bookmark featureโit saves my place automatically, so I never lose track. Highly recommend!
Playing a wide variety of audio formats
Works on all devices with iOS 13 and newer
Huge amount of features for a small price
Frequent updates to add new features and improve existing ones
Advanced playback controls
Live sound processing
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice and noise reduction
Translated into more than 20 languages
If you love listening to fiction audiobooks, ListenBook has features to make the process easier.
Edit book data: title, author, cover
Use equalizer to make the sound comfortable for you
Adjust the playback speed
Enjoy dark and light app themes
Supported formats: MP3, M4B, AWB, FLAC, OGG audio files and many more (must be DRM free)
Auto-Bookmarks make it easy to find your place
AirPlay support allows redirection of audio output.
VoiceOver support
Dark mode for night owls
Convenient bookmarking system helps you mark the most important places.
Unlimited bookmarks for each audiobook
Put your own cover on the wager
Share your audiobook with friends
Lock-screen control
Customise app with extensive options
Sleep timer with shake to reset, set custom notification sounds, and a few unique options
Auto rewind depending on paused time, customize rewind times to your liking
Removing background noise from recordings made in classrooms and meetings
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice for a better listening experience