Sony GV-D1000 Portable MiniDV Video Walkman Review

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(More customer reviews)Since owning a miniDV camcorder and wishing there was a way of playing back tapes (on the TV) I've made without holding the unit in my hand 6ft from the television, this MiniDV Walkman is the answer to a prayer.
Although pricey, it does exactly as the description claims. I haven't owned it long, and although I've not tried any of the editing features it has, I can say that I'm pleased with its overall performance. As it also claims, the 4" monitor provides super clear viewing, and can be shut-off when using your TV as the monitor for viewing tapes. That saves battery power as well.
It's primarily a VCR for the MiniDV format. It records, (dubs), and plays back in forward or reverse, with excellent picture quality in 2x & slow motion. It definately IS a full-featured product, not to mention its capabilities when using the built-in memory stick slot --- mainly for converting a moving image into a still picture and to be able to view stills already taken. This brings me to the only "aw shucks" incident I've had thus far. The unit refuses to read the Sandisk pro duo mem stick I have in my SONY Cybershot camera. It claims the stick is corrupted for some srange reason.
The main reason for the 4-star rating, is that the unit does NOT come equipped with a lithium ion M-series battery... which it requires for its portability. It comes with 2-AA batteries, used to power the remote. (which is great by the way) But for about a thousand bucks you'd think they could at LEAST throw in a lithium battery!! So in order to get a half decent battery, (4 hr playback time) I had to shell out another 100 bucks! It already weighs 2 lbs; add a few more ounces for this enormous battery that looks like a growth on its backside!
Oh well, I got what I wished for, and can't complain too much for another fine & very diversified product from SONY.

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The Sony GV-D1000 video walkman does it all, recording as a digital VCR using the MiniDV format, while also playing back people's favorite clips on the included 4-inch LCD screen. The MiniDV format is a favorite among digital videographers, as it offers three times the color bandwidth of traditional VHS video, giving it enhanced clarity and realism. The device also includes a memory stick media terminal, to which a user can record digital still images in 640 x 480 resolution from videotapes, through the analog input, and from digital video. The memory stick makes it easy to transfer images to personal computers for e-mailing, printing, or sharing with other digital devices. The recorder also includes an iLink output for direct transfer between two devices equipped with an IEEE 1394 interface, such as computers, camcorders, or digital VCRs.
Other features include an MPEG movie memory mode--which captures compressed MPEG1 video with audio onto a memory stick--a USB port that delivers streaming video over the Internet, and an editing mode for manipulating up to 20 scenes. Users can convert analog NTSC video to digital format through the analog inputs, or directly to a PC using the iLink interface. The GV-D1000 doesn't skimp on audio, either, offering 12-bit/16-bit recording that sounds as clear as a compact disc.
Users will also appreciate the crystal-clear pause mode and slow motion playback, along with the playback zoom that allows editors to enlarge, crop, and resize images. The unit also includes an index titler for creating movie titles and a built-in 4k integrated circuit memory chip.
What's in the Box GV-D1000 digital video walkman, AC power adapter, AV cables, remote control, two AA batteries, CD-ROM drivers (Pixela, ImageMixer 1.0), user's manual.

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Sony HDR-SR5 AVCHD 4MP 40GB High Definition Hard Disk Drive Camcorder with 10x Optical Zoom Review

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(More customer reviews)I've been using this camera for almost 3 months now. I really like the quality for the most part and having the video go directly to a digitized format is awesome. However, I do have some serious problems with a few things.
1. No USB connection on the camera body.
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Now, I really don't understand why they didn't add a port as important as the one for the USB connection directly on the camera body. That is basically the only way for you to transfer the video files directly to your computer. It seems like either of the ports for the A/V Out or the Component connection (which I hardly use) could have been left to the base if it was a space issue, or perhaps even the mini-HDMI port (which I think they should have included an adapter to standard HDMI for).
If they HAD included the USB port on the camera body, there wouldn't be a need for the base at all. The more I think about it, the more nonsensical it seems. Of course, perhaps there was some engineering issue that made it more feasible....but for $700 bucks, I don't want to have to make excuses for them or figure out why they made something more complicated when it could have been so simple.
Also, although the newer versions USB seem to be overtaking firewire, they could have put that type of connection on the base rather than additional component and A/V ports which are already on the camera body.
2. Shooting in low light has lots of noise.
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I thought the CMOS sensor on this camera was supposed to eliminate noise in low light situations, but from what I can tell, shooting outside at night or even in dark rooms, there's plenty of noticeable noise in the dark regions of the video image, even when shooting at the highest quality level, HD XP. I don't know if it's something I can have checked out, perhaps my sensor just isn't working properly, but in any case, that's been somewhat of a disappointment for me.
What I expected was video quality like that in the movie Collateral, which had lots of great night shots using HD cameras. Maybe that is a bit too much for a consumer camera, but still, I expected more.
Also, another problem that I've found with night shots, is that the auto-focus has a really hard time getting zeroed in on the right area. I usually have to end up focusing it manually if I want a consistently clear shot at night.
3. The bundled software doesn't convert to an uncompressed format.
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Since AVCHD is a relatively new format, I was certain that they would have a feature in the software to convert clips to some more universal uncompressed format. But the software that comes with the camera only has the option to export the video to MPEG2, which creates a clear loss in quality. So, I don't understand why they wouldn't make it easier for us to convert the video into some more widely used format with that losing that HD clarity. I know there are third party applications that do this, but Sony should have provided this feature with the camera.
Additionally, working with the AVCHD format is a pain in general. In order to view the video on your computer as a video file, you have to import it using the Sony Picture Utility software that comes on a CD-ROM with the camera. When it imports the files to a selected destination folder, you actually get 3 files for every video clip you've shot. The extensions are 'm2tsm', 'modd', and 'moff'. The 'm2tsm' file is the one that actually contains the video data (I had to assume since it's always the largest). I'm not sure what the others are for.
Even after you've installed all the provided software, you can't just double click a video file to open it. You have to "Register" the folder the video files are in in the Picture Motion Browser. Only then can you view your video. They have a program called 'Player for AVCHD', beut it stupidly only plays the video on your camera harddrive, and doesn't even have an option to directly open the files on your computer. Personally, I've found the software to be more cumbersome than useful. The program doesn't have an option to move folders, so if you do move the files, you have to re-register them and delete the old folders from the Picture Motion Browser yourself. While it's nice in someways to keep things organized, it's not really that helpful. And the editing features made available are almost completely worthless, unless all you want to do is split a clip in two.Despite it's shortcomings, I still think it's a decent camera, although I really wish they had better software with more editing features. Still, I think it's worth $700 or so for the clear image (in daylight) and the convienice of having the video go directly to a harddrive. Despite it's shortcomings, this might actually be the best HD harddrive camcorders on the market, but having not had the opportunity to try any others, I can't say that for sure. What I can say is that it's good, even if it's not perfect.
*I had to edit this because I kept thinking of other things I had problems with. And the more I thought about the file format situation, the more annoyed I became. So I think I would have to modify my recommendation and say that you should just wait until future versions to buy this camera when they improve the software or just try out another camera altogether. Considering these other difficulties, I think I would have to drop my rating to a 2 out of 5 stars.

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Sony hdr-sr5 40gb hdd hi-def cam.

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Sony DCRTRV820 Digital Camcorder Review

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(More customer reviews)This is the best camcorder that Sony currently has. Its worth every cent that I paid. Each component snaps into its place. The features never end. I can zoom across the water and video a boat far away. Taking still pics is great too. I could take still pics on the cassette, and later transfer the good ones to the memory stick. The TRV820 is packed with cool features and also came with software/cable to transfer video clips or still to PCs. This is a cool video cam upgrade for those who may have had Hi8 cams previously... you can still play your old Hi8 videos and can begin shooting digital videos. 3 in 1 (video/still/printer) is neat. The prints are great for "on the fly" handouts, a good ice-breaker when shooting children and strangers. The 450X digital zoom is an overkill and somewhat useless (pixelation at the maximum zoom) and really can't be hand held at these magnifications. Very solid: functioned well even at hot and humid conditions. Couple of negative comments:
1. The still resolution is low (640x480). This needs to be pumped up Sony! 2. The camera does not have the capability to play wide-screen format filming on regular TVs (a feature on Hi8s). You get a vertically streched video images unless you have a wide-screen TV. 3. If you take videos on 16:9 widescreen format, and later transfer these photos to the stick the photos get stretched and does not look good. Other than that I would definitely recommend it. The printer is worth the extra [money] over the other model. And the printer doesn't add much weight but it adds lots of fun! A piece of advice while buying accessories, if you need 8 hours battery, buy two 4 hour battery as the 8 hour battery is big & heavy.

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The DCR-TRV820 is Sony's top of the line Digital8 camcorder. Sony Digital8 records a digital signal onto standard 8mm or Hi8 tapes. It is possible to record up to 500 lines of resolution on a Digital8 tape. This camcorder allows you to digitally transfer your video to a computer using the FireWire standard, just like MiniDV. The camcorder comes with a 4-inch Liquid Color Display (LCD) screen and a color viewfinder. A nifty gadget that comes with the camcorder is a color printer. The camcorder has a large 25x optical zoom and a 450x digital zoom. It allows for analog input so you can transfer old VHS tapes to DV. The camcorder includes Control L, which allows usage in a standard and linear editing system. Still pictures are captured and stored on Sony's memory stick media, so you can proceed to print out those still pictures. Sony's LaserLink system uses infrared light to make a wireless connection from your camcorder to your television. This camera will provide up to 14 hours Stamina recording with optional NP-F960 battery.The TRV820 is a great and inexpensive camcorder. If you've worked with 8mm or Hi8 before and want a good Digital8 Camcorder, the TRV820 was created for you.

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JVC Everio GZ-HM200 Dual SD High-Def Camcorder (Blue) Review

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(More customer reviews)It's been a number of years since I had a camcorder. It was a tape unit, and after the initial infatuation with the new toy, I found that I never used it. Recording was a chore (juggling tapes and batteries), uploading was tedious, and the quality wasn't all that good. For quick ad hoc recordings, my various digital still cameras could grab a few seconds of good-enough video. The camcorder disappeared from my life.
A few years later, things have really changed. I received the Everio GZ-HM200, snapped in a couple of 8GB SD cards, charged the battery, and I was ready to go. We took a day trip to Mount Rainier; the weather was perfect, and I took a lot of video of photogenic glaciers and waterfalls.
When I got home, I wanted to upload the video into my computer. The Everio comes with software for Windows PCs, and Mac users are hardly mentioned in the documentation. I had searched the various on-line discussions of Mac video, and there were many cautionary tales about compatibility issues with the Everios. I anticipated problems.
I was wrong. I connected the USB cable to my Mac Mini, started iMovie (part of iLife '09), and opened up the camcorder. The USB menu opened, and I chose the "Upload" option. iMovie detected the camera, asked me a few questions (video quality, destination, whether to check for stabilization issues), and then imported the video clips. It was trivially easy - just the way I like it.
The Everio has a "Snapshot" mode to take still images, and I had tried it out. This meant that while I was working with iMovie, iPhoto also started up and offered to import the photos I'd taken. My verdict: it's OK for casual 1x use, but no substitute for a real digital camera. The problem is that the Everio's autostabilization mode only works for video, not for still images. This meant that a couple of 20x zoomed images, while impressively magnified, were hopelessly blurred. I'll stick with my Panasonic DMC-TZ4 for the still shots.
The JVC Everio is a tremendous little camera: compact, easy, light, and producing excellent HD video. (Yes, my Mac Mini feels a little underpowered for working with this.) The dual slot SD card design is excellent; the camera will automatically switch from one card to the next during recording, and you can swap cards on the fly. In XP mode (17 Mbps VBR 1920x1080) 16GB is good for 2 hours of recording, which feels about right. (You can crank it up to 24 Mbps, which will give you 1 hr. 20 min., or drop down to 5Mbps, at which point you can run for over 7 hours!) No more media juggling.....
There are tons of additional features in this camera, and sometime I may try them out. But for the basic job of plug-and-play HD video, this is hard to beat.
Recomended.

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KONICA MINOLTA HD LENS (F1.9, Filter diameter: 30.5mm)
SD/SDHC Card Dual Slot
Full HD1920 x 1080P Recording
1/4.1" 3.05Megapixel CMOS
24Mbps Ultra High Quality AVCHD Recording
Up to 1920 x 1080 Digital Stills
New Laser Touch Operation
Face Detection
HDMI V.1.3 with x.v.Color
2.7" 123K-pixel Color LCD
Power-Linked operation with Quick Restart
Convenient 2-way Strap
Auto Power ON/OFF & Auto Lens Cover
Remote Control
One Touch Export (Windows)
One-touch Upload to YouTube (Windows)
One-Touch Backup to PC (Direct Backup)
One-Touch DVD Creation (Direct DVD)
Pixela Everio MediaBrowser (Windows)

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InFocus X6 DLP Projector Review

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(More customer reviews)I was pleasantly surprised at the quality of the picture from this projector. Being on the low-end price-wise I didn't expect the high-quality picture that it projected. I bought it for my 15-year old daughter to have movie parties with. It is also very simple to operate. The only downfall is that it only came with a cable to connect to a PC, but not a cable to connect to a DVD player (S-video to RCA) I had to order that separately since the stores (Radio Shack & Circuit City) do not carry it in stock.

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Infocus X6 digital multimedia projectors - designed for collaborative environments, including the office, classroom, home theater or large-format public display. As an all take on affordable, high-quality digital projection the X6 feature advanced DLP technology in a compact size with an integrated audio system and secure installation options. For further simplicity, the multifunction remote control slides into the projector chassis for storage and transportation.The search for a steady-performing, reliable projector ends here and it is completely affordable. The X6 feature 2000 Max ANSI Lumens and an 1800:1 Contrast Patio which equates to bright images with lush color saturation and deep black levels, even in meeting spaces with present ambient light. The X6 utilize the latest BrilliantColor technology to output true-to-life colors and shades through a wide, short throw lens, providing big image flexibility to smaller rooms.Nearly all computers utilize a VGA output for monitors and projectors, so the X6 host VGA input for data presentations, along with S-video and composite video inputs for multimedia presentation material from a DVD player, camcorder or digital camera. These projectors offer onboard serial input for IT integration applications - providing full functionality with maximum flexibility at an affordable price. Also, the X6 beautifully project video content, so when business ends on Friday feel free to enjoy these projectors at home.The X6 is an ideal first step into digital projection. It features SVGA resolution, which is an outstanding introduction to digital projection. The X6 has impressive brightness and contrast and all the connectivity options necessary to be truly effective in every meeting.

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Panasonic PV-GS14 MiniDV Camcorder w/22x Optical Zoom Review

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(More customer reviews)I bought this only a few weeks ago & it's been a wonderful camera. I've used it to capture all sorts of life's moments, mainly our cats being crazy. I've also used it to capture digital images. I've not spent a whole lot of time using the camera, but enough to know how to use it fairly well. I'll start with the digital images 1st, and then move onto video.
The Digital Pictures:
The camera does not include a SD card so I had to purchase one separately, which is definitely a bummer. Luckily I was able to get a small 16mb Panasonic SD card off an auction site for $8 after shipping. I have no plans to capture a ton of pictures so 16mb was fine. I took about 18 pictures after I finally got the SD card in the mail & the pictures looked fantastic... At least on the camera they looked good. I never messed with changing the quality around so the settings were default on the camcorder.
When I finally got the free USB cable in the mail & hooked my camera up to my pc I was pleased with how easy it was for Windows (2000 Pro. in my case) to recognize the camera. Immediately it installed without me having to do anything extra & it added a new drive letter in my computer where I was easily able to copy the images or move them to my pc. When I started opening the images with ACDSee & Adobe Photoshop I was not please at the quality of the images. Not only were they fuzzy & dull looking, they were only 640 x 480 in size. This may be adjustable by changing settings on the camera itself, but I have not had time to do so.
The Video:
This is overall the best thing about this camera. I've recorded a lot of nothing as stated above, but the camera does a terrific job of capturing it all & keeping the image clean & colorful. I've hooked the camera to my TV & it all looks great. The camera has to be pretty still if you zoom into things or else the video becomes slightly blurred while trying to stabilize itself.
There are a lot of different functions to the video recording as well, it has many more options and special effects then I thought possible for a camera of its price range. The footage I recorded at night looked great with the backlight on. I was however unable to tell any difference with the soft skin effect. Unfortunately the battery is easily drained & a second battery is recommended.
The Pros:
Great Video, Light Weight, Easy To Hook Up, Lots of Extra Features, Zoom 22x, Firewire, Fun, Comes With Power Cord So Camera Can Be Used Without the Battery
The Cons:
The Cover for the ports is flimsy, Digital Pictures Fuzzy, Not Much in the Box, No Included Software or PC Cables, Short Battery Life, No included SD Card, No Included DV Tapes
I've not had time to test this out or not, but for other noobs to the DV Camera world might be interested in knowing that with a firewire cable capturing video from the camera is possible. Firewire is the only way to do this as USB & USB 2.0 cannot keep up with the frame rate & chop up picture quality. So if you want to use your video & make a home dvd you can do so with this camera as well as other DV cameras that have a Firewire port.
One last feature that's available that I never had time to mess with & do not care to, is the ability to use the camera as a webcam.
Overall the camera is terrific & worth checking out, if you really want it to take fantastic pictures I'd probably save $100 & pickup the pv-gs12 & use the $100 to get a digital camera or look at the latest model.
::UPDATE::
Someone asked how do you get the free usb cable? The answer is simple fill out the card that says you get a free usb cable when you return it. I believe it was much like a warranty card, or was the warranty card... mine was with all the other paperwork.

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Blending innovative technologies with new, simple-to-operate controls, Panasonic's PV-GS14 camcorder is an affordable and powerful entry into digital video. Panasonic continues to innovate, adding more optical zoom capability while reducing the overall size. This MiniDV camcorder features a 22x optical zoom, ultra-fast 1.3-second start-up time, SD memory card slot for digital stills, webcam capability, and color viewfinder.
Optics The PV-GS14 is equipped with a 1/6-inch, 680,000-pixel CCD and 22x optical zoom It also features a 800x digital zoom that allows you to zoom in on incredible close-ups.
Digital Stills In addition to shooting video, the PV-GS14 can also capture digital still images up to 640 x 480 pixels--good for sending photos to friends and family over e-mail or posting to your Web site. They are stored to the Secure Digital (SD)/MultiMedia (MMC) memory card slot. The Direct Mode Dial can be used in digital still mode lets you quickly select the desired digital camera mode, such as Record, Playback, Card Record, or Card Playback.
More Features The 2.5-inch LCD screencan be opened a full 120 degrees away from the camcorder's body, making it easier to view motion images as theyÕre being captured.
The Quick Start feature enables the PV-GS14 to begin taping 1.3 seconds after turning the power on so those unexpectedÊmoments wonÕt be missed.ÊAfter pressing the Quick Start button, the camcorder will bring up the previous settings that you were shooting with--even if they were manually entered.
The Soft Skin Detail function detects the different skin tones being recorded and softens the focus to create a realistic blend.
Other features include:
The image-enhancing MagicPix feature allows for rich videos under low-light conditions.
Web cam capability, which is ideal for video conferencing with friends or family, or use as a simple monitoring device when consumers are away from home.
The unsnapping hand strap doubles as wrist loops, enabling you to carry the camcorder like a small bag or purse.
Color viewfinder

Inputs and Outputs The PV-GS14 comes with the standard DV IEEE 1394 port (also known as FireWire; Panasonic refers to this connection as iLink) for a super-fast, lossless connection to a PC or other DV machines.
MiniDV Format MiniDV is the preferred format for personal and broadcast-quality video, and it is highly regarded for its high audio and image quality. With up to 540 lines of horizontal resolution and minimum color noise, MiniDV delivers a 2 percent clearer picture than analog camcorder formats. This is all delivered on a cassette that's 1/12th the size of a standard VHS tape. A MiniDV tape offers digital recording time of 2 full hours--20 times the capacity of a CD.

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Canon Optura 400 MiniDV Camcorder w/10x Optical Zoom Review

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(More customer reviews)I just received mine today and made a short cooking film while cooking dinner. This is a beautiful camcorder and still camera. It is small and fits the hand well. Looks like jewelry to me. It is perfectly quiet. I cannot hear it recording. Do not believe some reviews out there about noise. You can only hear it during fast forward and rewind. Big 1/3.4 inch CCD with Canon optics and color rendering image algorithms. Lots of manual options as well as auto. I bought a spare Canon battery (BP- 2L14, twice the power) and the built in charger charged it and the original with no problem. Very good hand ergonomics with nice button placement, intuitive operation. Excellent colors and imaging. I read my manual carefully and all installations of tape, card and backup battery were a snap. There is currently a $100 rebate and this camcorder is available for less than half the original suggested price, a steal for a camcorder of this quality.

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Canon raises the stakes for all-in-one digital imaging devices with the release of the Canon Optura 400 (and its sibling Optura 500; see a comparison table at the end), which is as adept at shooting digital video as it is snapping high-resolution digital stills. Shorter and more lightweight than its predecessors, the brushed silver Optura 400 weighs just 1.2 pounds with tape and battery and measures 2.1 x 4.2 x 4.0 inches. It offers 2.2-megapixel resolution for fine video and photo details, a 10x optical zoom lens, image stabilization, built-in SD/MMC memory card slot, and PictBridge compatibility for direct printing of still photos to compatible printers.
Optics and Resolution The Optura 400 has a 2.2-megapixel CCD, which produces 1230K effective pixels for video and 2 million effective pixels for still photos, for images up to 1623 x 1224 pixels (good enough for print enlargements up to 8 x 10 inches). Canon's camcorder lens features the same quality found in 35mm and broadcast TV cameras, and the Optura 400 has a 10x optical zoom lens that delivers good definition and contrast as well as a 200x digital zoom. In addition, the lenses feature a unique spectral coating to reduce flare and ghosting, resulting in optimal indoor and outdoor shots.
The RGB Primary Color Filter separates light passing through the lens into red, green and blue color components providing similar color quality found in professional 3 CCD camcorders, yielding truer more natural looking colors. Canon's DIGIC DV signal processing circuit makes it possible to achieve accurate color for both video and digital photos. Since video and digital photos have different color requirements, DIGIC DV utilizes two different color techniques to maximize video quality on a TV and still image quality for print or computer display.
Shooting Video With the high-resolution 16:9 widescreen mode, the Optura 400 utilizes the entire width of the CCD (unlike some systems that electronically stretch the picture vertically) retaining image quality and providing a wider horizontal angle of view that is ideal for creating a theater-like experience.A variety of Program Auto Exposure settings allow for easy, optimal shooting in a wide range of lighting situations. The Optura 400 is also equipped with Manual Audio Level Control, commonly found only on prosumer camcorder models, and a swivel grip and palm pad, providing maximum comfort when shooting for long periods of time.
The Motion JPEG Mode records your footage onto the Secure Digital memory card at 320 x 240 resolution, giving you up to 60 minutes of recording time on an optional 512 MB card.
Still Photos The Optura 400 saves still image files to Secure Digital (SD) and MultiMedia (MMC) memory cards (an 8 MB card is included with the camcorder). It offers a number of photographic controls that make it easy to get the right shot, including:
Selectable Focusing Points for bringing off-center subjects into sharp focus
Continuous Shooting Mode enables rapid fire shooting--up to 3 frames-per-second (1632 x 1224) or up to 5 frames-per-second (1280 x 960, 640 x 480)
Simultaneous Photo Recording lets you capture e-mail ready digital photos (640 x 480) while you record video
Auto Exposure Bracketing lets you shoot three photos-Ñnormal, underexposed and overexposed--with the press of one button
The Built-in flash with Red-Eye Reduction is perfect for taking photos at night, indoors, or filling in shadows
Horizontal & Vertical Trimming Function and Photo Review Function allow you to make edits directly in the camcorder
Stitch Assist enables you to capture and create breathtaking 360-degree panoramas
The Skin Detail Mode helps you take complimentary close-ups of people by softening details and reducing skin imperfections
Connect directly to any Canon CP-series Photo Printer or Canon Bubble Jet Direct Printer using the supplied USB cable. You can also connect directly to other Pictbridge compatible printers, and because the camcorder tags each photo you take with information based on Exif 2.2 Print standards, poor lighting and mistakes can be corrected automatically by the printer.
Other Features The advanced Image Stabilization system works behind the scenes even when youÕre panning and zooming, shooting videos or photos. The Optura 400's large 2.5-inch LCD and color viewfinder helps you compose shots from any angle.
With the press of the Night Mode button, the camcorder automatically selects a slow shutter speed and increases the sensitivity of the CCD to brighten the image, while still preserving color. Two additional low-light settings can be assigned to the Night Mode button -- Super Night Mode and Night++ Mode. When selected, Super Night Mode automatically triggers the white LED Lamp when needed to enhance the subject for shooting. Night++ Mode is used in the toughest lighting situations, keeping the white LED Lamp on all the time.
Connectivity The Optura 400 connects to Macs and Windows-based PCs via a Firewire terminal (also known as iLink or IEEE1394), enabling high video and audio quality during duplication or editing. An Analog Line-in/Out with Analog/Digital Converter allows you to easily transform your analog memories into digital, all in real-time. The camcorder also features a Network Mode, which enables you to remotely control your camcorder through the DVÊMessenger2 software application. Control the focus and zoom of your camcorder from a computer while streaming the video via its Firewire terminal.
What's in the Box This package contains the Optura 400 digital video camcorder, rechargeable battery pack (NB-2LH), power adapter (CA-570), wireless controller (WL-D83), A/V cable, 8 MB SD memory card, USB cable, and Digital Video Solution CD-ROM, which includes:
Pinnacle Studio gives you every tool you need to easily capture video to your computer, edit footage, add titles, music, narration and special effects and then output the finished movie back to videotape, DVD or the web.
Pinnacle Instant Album can help you quickly organize your digital photos and video clips into interactive, high-resolution slideshows that can then be burned onto CD and DVD or watched on your TV with Instant PhotoAlbum
It's covered by a 1-year limited warranty (3 months for the video head part).
Comparison: Optura 400 and 500 Major Features

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Canon FS11 Flash Memory Camcorder with 16GB Internal Flash Memory and 48x Advanced Zoom Review

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(More customer reviews)I bought this camera for the flash memory part. I really did not want to cary little tapes or cds or extra wires.
The camera is small, the size of a toilet paper roll, it fits entirely in the palm of my hand and weighs nothing.
The image stabilization is great, I get no shaking or bouncing.
It comes with a USB cable, an AC adapter power cord, HDMI cables, two software discs and a small remote. It has three settings for quality, the highest setting gives me an hour and a half of space on the camera, and the battery has a life of three and a half hours. This is displayed on the screen so you can be aware of how much time and space you have.
The software is to edit your video, it's simple and easy to use. You can write credits in different styles and have them scroll across the screen and you can cut your scene and paste it. You can also play with the audio. The features on the camera are also user friendly and the menu is a sinch.
There are some qualities that I didn't like. The camera is made of plastic, which adds to the weightlessness, but also makes it feel like a kid's toy. The lens is not a wide angle and therefore you can't get a lot into your frame unless you stand back, way back. It doesn't have a view finder, you have to look at the lcd screen. The position of the USB port could have been located somewhere else. To transfer the video to the PC you have to connect both the AC power and the USB.
Overall, the camera suits the purpose I bought it for, family moments and the occasional soccer game.
If you're looking for the same purpose, I'd reccomend this one, if you're a professional who shoots weddings or events, this is not for you.

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Canon FS11 16GB Flash Drive Camcorder From their long history of optical excellence, advanced image processing, superb performance and technological innovation in photographic and broadcast television cameras comes the Canon FS11 16GB Flash Drive Camcorder! The light, compact camcorder captures stunning video with the ease and numerous benefits of flash memory. Flash memory is used in some of the world's most innovative electronic products such as laptop computers, MP3 players, PDAs and cell phones. Canon offers the best in flash memory with their Dual Flash Memory technology. Record to both the camcorder's 16GB internal memory and a removable SDHC card, extending your available recording space and offering added flexibility in file transfer and playback. The Canon FS11 16GB Flash Drive Camcorder is just the thing for catching your life's special moments! Specifications 1/6" CCD image sensor 2.7" widescreen 123K LCD display Aspect ratio: 16:9 widescreen 1152 x 864 maximum resolution 16GB internal flash memory SD/SDHC memory card slot Zoom ratio: 48x advanced zoom (16:9 mode), 37x optical zoom, 2000x digital zoom 3 fixed zoom speeds Focal Length: f=2.6-96.2mm Minimum focusing distance: 10 mm (wide)/1m (tele) Programmed AE: Auto, Program, TV, Portrait, Sports, Night, Snow, Beach, Sunset, Spotlight, and Fireworks White balance: Daylight, Tungsten, Auto, and Manual Electronic image stabilization Audio: Dolby Digital 2ch (AC-3) 3.5mm stereo mini-jack microphone terminal USB 2.0 out Includes Lithium coin battery (CR2025) Battery pack (BP-808) Wireless controller (WL-D88) Compact power adapter (CA-590) Stereo video cable (STV-250N) Wrist strap (WS-30) AC cable Interface cable Digital video solutions disc for Windows and Macintosh Pixela Image Mixer 3SE disc Dimensions: 2.4"H x 4.9"D x 2.3"W Weight: 9.2 oz. Vendor warranty: One year

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Sony DCRPC110 Digital HandyCam Camcorder with Builtin Digital Still Mode Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I recently decided to get this camera and sell off my TRV900 because I really found I needed something smaller to carry around. It was a tough choice, as the image quality and stills from the TRV900 were decidedly better. But I just couldn't pass up the size. This one is so small for the features you get. It has many, many well thought out features. For instance, it has a little swing-down handle to make filming easier (always an issue with these little digicams). You can hook the camera directly to your computer through USB, no need to get a card reader. Pop-up flash is nice for doing indoor shots. Easy to use menus. Fairly high resolution stills for a digital camcorder. I love the Sony batteries that tell you how much time you have left...same for the tapes and memory cards. Plenty of features that a camera at this level should have.
Now, for the negatives. No progressive scan. Let me say that again. NO PROGRESSIVE SCAN!! Heaven knows why Sony continues to leave this feature off. It was so noticeable between this camera and the TRV900 which does have progressive scan, when you capture stills off of video. The ones from this camera are nowhere near as good. Not even close. If the subject is moving at all (which is usually the whole point of trying to capture a still from video), without progressive scan it is just not as clear, sharp, colorful, etc. Why Sony does not put progressive scan on their cameras is beyond me. Most of the other gripes I have with this camera are fairly minimal. Some of the buttons are fairly hard to locate, the zoom is hard to use and rather touchy, the photo button is right next to it so I often hit the wrong one, etc. Fairly typical problems for a camera of this size. Were it not for progressive scan being missing though, this would definitely be a 5-star camcorder. Without it, sorry Sony. You blew it again.

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Sony DCR-PC110 digital Handycam camcorder offers higher resolution, more hours of recording and more professional features than any analog camcorder. The digital technology delivers a richer and more accurate picture quality than the analog format. Featuring a 1/4" Advanced HAD CCD with 1,070,000 pixels, the camcorder provides stunning detail and clarity, with exceptional video and still image performance. Carl Zeiss professional quality precision lens uses a unique lens coating that reduces glare and flaring, while providing improvement in detail and contrast. Rechargeable Lithium Ion battery means no "memory effect" like other battery types can experience. DCR-PC110 features MPEG movie mode, and Pulse Code Modulation (PCM) stereo audio recording for an incredible 96db dynamic range. It is a sure declaration that Sony is moving forward in the integration of DV and digital stills cameras.

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Epson PowerLite 1735W Multimedia Projector (V11H270020) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)The PowerLite 1735W is terrific portable presentation tool. I researched comparable DLP-based projectors before buying this one. The PowerLite's picture quality is excellent for such a small projector, and the "3LCD" technology works very well for playing videos (comparable DLP projectors have trouble with rapid light/dark changes).
Tired of mediocre - and loud - projectors at conference & hotel venues, I have been pleased with the very low fan noise when set to "low" brightness - and the output is still a bright ~2000 lumens.
Pros:
* Bright, even when set to "low"
* Quiet when set to "low" brightness
* Compact & light weight
* Very easy to set-up with VGA input
* Works well for projecting flash videos (or DVDs)
* Very long lamp life (4000 hours on "low" brightness)
* Can set-up for custom logo (professional look)
* Can set-up for password lock-out (inhibit theft)
* High-resolution native WXGA (1280 x 800) projection
* S-Video input
Cons:
* Pricey
* Noticeable fan noise when set to maximum brightness
* XGA (1024 x 768) projection is not native (dithered)
* Only works with PowerPoint "presenter mode" (notes on laptop screen) when using VGA. Presenter mode does *NOT* work when connected via WiFi or USB (will only project the same output as the main laptop screen).
* No component, HDMI or DisplayPort inputs (but nothing in this class does)
* Security lock-out requires the remote control. If you lose the remote, you're toast until you get a replacement.
* Speaker output is no better than typical laptop. Only suitable for a small conference table.
The DLP-based projectors are slightly smaller, but for me the combined features of the PowerLite 1735W make it a superior tool for professional use. If you don't need the WiFi or USB input (and I don't), consider the PowerLite 1730W Epson PowerLite 1730W 3000 Lumens WXGA Projector and save ~$100. If size and weight aren't important, there are lots of far less expensive alternatives.

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The ultimate mobile projector. Stunning widescreen performance. Wireless and networking connectivity. Innovative easy-to-use features for ultra-quick setup and smooth transitions between presenters. No need for bulky VGA cable.

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Panasonic Pro AG-DVC30 3-CCD MiniDV Camcorder w/16x Optical Zoom Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This is a great camera for the wedding videographer or other serious amateur or semi-professional. It's well built, has great manual control, and takes super video including good low-light performance. You will probably want the external mic attachment, which lets you use professional microphones without additional adapters and signal processors. Now that the price is well below $2000, it's a great deal. One caveat: If you plan to shoot 16:9 format, this is not the best choice. The Panasonic GS400 handles that much better, and at a lower price. (But the GS400 doesn't have the low-light chops that the DVC-30 has - so you have to set your priorities.)
Plusses:
*Very good low light capability
*Sturdy, metal body construction
*Will take professional external microphones (with optional attachment)
*Unbelievable B&W no-light capability with infrared (short range built into camera; medium range add-on IR light increases range to hundreds of feet.)
*Excellent manual control available via menu AND you can put your favorite four settings on programmable buttons on the camera body for extra convenience.
*Without attachments, the body with built-in mic is small and consumer-like (won't draw attention to itself), not to mention light-weight.
*Lovely video with three 1/4-inch CCD's.
Minuses:
*The Sony 2100 has even better low-light ability
*The 16:9 mode isn't as good as the PDX10 or GS400.
*The still picture capability is only adequate.
*The built-in mic is only average.

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The AG-DVC30's Leica Dicomar 16x optical zoom lens answers a broad range of shooting needs, delivering superb results from 39.5mm wide angle all the way to 632mm telephoto (both 35mm lens equivalents). In wide-angle performance--critical in broadcast and other professional applications--this lens is top of its class. Behind this outstanding performance are the advanced optical technologies and expertise that have made Leica Camera AG one of the most respected names in the camera world.
This new 16x optical zoom lens system uses low-dispersion glass and aspherical lenses to reduce color aberration and boost resolution. Use of a special multicoating process dramatically reduces flare and ghosts. The result: sharp, crisp, beautifully rendered pictures with vivid colors, delicate nuances, and exceptional shading.
Optical Image Stabilizer Compensates for Natural Hand-Shake The AG-DVC30's advanced Optical Image Stabilizer (OIS) compensates for hand shaking that occurs as you shoot. A gyrosensor detects hand-shake and sends signals to a linear motor, which adjusts the lens to compensate. Because this process takes place prior to the CCD image capture (rather than in the downstream electronic processing), it virtually eliminates any effect of hand-shake on resolution and screen angle. The OIS can also be helpful when zooming or shooting in dim lighting.
1/4-Inch, 410,000-Pixel 3CCD Image System: High Sensitivity, Low Noise To ensure a level of picture quality suitable for professionals, the AG-DVC30 uses a 3CCD image system that delivers the highest sensitivity in its class. Its high S/N ratio and extremely low noise (in darker areas of a picture) combines with high sensitivity to deliver excellent image quality even when shooting indoors under dim lighting. When shooting in sunlight or under bright spotlights, this 3CCD system offers low smear.
12-bit A/D and RGB Gamma Processor The AG-DVC30 features an A/D converter that uses the same 12-bit processing as broadcast-quality camera-recorders. This, combined with an RGB gamma processor that uses Panasonic's unique gamma-curve function, helps assure high image-quality processing. In fact, the AG-DVC30's A/D converter and RGB gamma processor are the same ones used in the popular AG-DVX100A, which has won acclaim as the industry's highest-image-quality DV camera.
Movie-Simulation Mode The AG-DVC30 can capture and reproduce images that are strikingly similar in tone to film images, thanks to Panasonic's unique Cine-Like gamma curve and a 30-frames-per-second recording function that electronically interpolates interlaced images to create frames with no time differences between fields. Settings for this mode are preset in the Movie-Like scene file.
High-Sensitivity Slow Shutter The slow shutter function uses image accumulation to allow shutter speeds with frame rates reduced by half or more. The accumulation method provides bright-color images with less noise than those captured using conventional gain-up, so you get the higher sensitivity needed for nighttime shooting without illumination. The slow shutter function can also be used to obtain movie-like effects.
16:9 Widescreen Recording The aspect ratio can be set to either 4:3 or 16:9 to accommodate wide-image recording. In 16:9 recording, you can select either letterbox or squeeze mode, giving you more possibilities in downstream editing and playback.

Zero Lux IR Mode: Super Nighttime Shooting System The AG-DVC30 is the world's first 3CCD camcorder to offer black-and-white recording in the dark using infrared light. This featre opens the door to a host of new possibilities in nighttime monitoring, surveillance, and news gathering. The built-in infrared light makes it possible to record at a distance of about 16 feet.
Professional Audio Quality with XLR Mic (Optional) The AG-DVC30 comes equipped with a built-in stereo microphone. Adding the optional AG-MYA30G XLR adapter provides you with +48 V phantom mic and line input needed for news gathering. Featuring two XLR audio input terminals and level controls, the adapter lets you independently switch channel 1 or channel 2 to mic or line input, with each having its own "glow in the dark" level adjustment.
Audio Level Meters Two color audio level meters can be displayed in the viewfinder and LCD monitor, making it easy to check the signal as you record.
Full Auto or Manual Shooting Use the AG-DVC30 for either full auto or manual shooting. The Auto/Manual switch turns the four auto functions--focus, shutter speed, iris and gain, and white balance--on and off as desired. Manual focusing is controlled by the large focus ring. You can also switch between manual and auto focus by pushing the Focus button. For added convenience, one of the user buttons can be assigned to turn autofocus on and off.
3.5-inch Color LCD Monitor and Tilt-Up Viewfinder The large 3.5-inch color LCD monitor rotates 270 degrees, making it easy to shoot at difficult angles, and the Mirror mode makes it easy to record yourself. The display is bright, too, so even outdoors you get good visibility when using the LCD to monitor footage or to select settings from the menu. For added ease of use when taking low-angle shots, you also can tilt the viewfinder 70 degrees upward.
Magnesium Alloy Chassis Designed for professionals, the AG-DVC30 boasts the same tough magnesium alloy diecast chassis as do the DVCPRO broadcast models. This rigid casing protects the high-precision components from bumps and jolts, helps shield out interface, and provides the AG-DVC30 with the reliability and durability needed for active field use.
Automatic Head Cleaning The AG-DVC30 provides the same head-cleaning function as do the DVCPRO models. The white roller pad positioned to the right of the head cylinder cleans the head each time you load a tape, helping to minimize dropouts and head clogging.
IEEE 1394 Terminal with Synchro Lock An IEEE 1394-compliant 4-pin DV terminal makes it easy to upload data from the AG-DVC30 or to dub footage onto a DV recorder. This terminal also features a new synchro lock function that lets you use the AG-DVC30 to remotely start and stop an external DV device. Three recording modes help protect against mistakes: record onto external recorder only, record onto both AG-DVC30 and external recorder, and begin external recording when the AG-DVC30 tape ends.
Versatile Performance Total mobility? Easy carrying? Or advanced audio specs? With the multistyle handle, the choice is yours. Designed with the professional in mind, the AG-DVC30 introduces a new detachable handle that adds versatility by letting you use this compact DV camera three different ways.
Style 1: With handle detached, this super-compact 3CCD camera fits easily into a bag or pack for highest mobility.
Style 2: With handle in place, the AG-DVC30 is easy to carry and easy to use, even when shooting at difficult angles.
Style 3: With the optional XLR adapter mounted on the handle, the AG-DVC30 has outstanding audio specs, plus the ability to add two external phantom mics or line inputs with "glow in the dark" level controls.

MiniDV Format The MiniDV format offers more precise image detail and color accuracy than was previously possible with analog camcorders. The superior quality of digital video results from:
Higher resolution: Up to 530 lines of horizontal resolution on select models for sharper picture detail
Component color sampling: Preserves three times more color information than does analog VHS or S-VHS video, for brighter and truer colors
Time base correction: Stabilizes the picture, eliminating video jitters
Error correction: Fills in missing video data, providing seamless, professional-looking video

What's in the Box Camera, handle, lens hood, lens cap, shoulder strap, AC cord, AV cables, DC cord, battery, AC adapter, large eye cup, wireless remote control unit, Master Series tape.

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Sony DCRTRV20 Digital Camcorder with Builtin Digital Still Mode Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I love this camcorder. I never owned one before, but I'm a photographer and a computer programmer. I wanted video. I got so much more. It's easy and completely excellent. I love the interaction between digitized analog (mini-DAT) and the memory stick and the PC cabling. Fun fun stuff in any-which-way you can concieve. Grab stills from your video, dump them to the stick and then the PC. Or if you like, upload a logo with a bluescreen to your stick and then record live video with that logo blue-screen-burned in it. There are too many options to talk about. It does take your fingers a tiny bit of time to get used to where buttons and levers and switches are. I counted them and came up with 50+ of them. But the ones you use often enough come easily to remember. The ergo is fine. I usually use the viewscreen to film and snapshot. But the single eye view is great too. I don't think I could ask for a feature it doesn't have.

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Camcorders that take stills are becoming much more common, but those that take 1-megapixel stills are still very few and far between. The Sony DCR-TRV20 features the capability of producing 1,152 x 864 images, which are stored on the included 4 MB Memory Stick. Plus you get the superior video and audio inherent in digital video.
The quality Carl Zeiss 10x optical zoom lens is paired with Sony's Super SteadyShot image stabilization to help reduce the effects of unsteadiness common at high zoom levels. A 3.5-inch color LCD monitor makes it easy to frame your shots. Additionally, the DCR-TRV20 features analog inputs, so you can convert your old footage to digital. Super NightShot is an infrared mode for 0-lux shooting. And Sony's Super LaserLink technology means you can wirelessly play back your footage on any TV equipped with a LaserLink receiver.

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Sony GV-HD700 High Definition Video Walkman Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)The product pretty much does what it says, and does tape in HDV from the Firewire input. There were some minor issues connecting it to FCP 6.02, but suddenly, magically, it worked.Screen Spec: Sony (and most sites) say "1152K pixels" leading one to believe that the screen is 1440x800. According to a quick test by me, that is NOT the resolution. The manual says 800x480 (384,000 pixels) and that is likely correct. Sony gets the"1152" by taking 800H lines x 480V lines x 3 colors = 1152K. No one else I've ever seen, including Sony on other products measures resolution this way.To check it out further, I used a resolution chart and fed the FW output (HDV) to Quicktime to view on my Apple 30" display. Resolution to 800 lines, both H and V resolution was limited by the camera (which is about 690H 650V according to some tests by [...]. When I looked at the same output on the GV-HD700 display, Vertical resolution topped out at about 400 lines, Horizontal at about 600 lines, confirming the 800x480 spec in the manual.There is considerable delay when inputting to the GV-HD700 using Firewire HDV signal, so its use in the field as a focusing aid is problematic. The screen resolution is better than the ones on a camera (my V1U has 960x220 according to Sony), but the delay (about 1/2 second or more to decode the HDV signal) means that on other than stationary objects, it is useless, and even on stationary objects, one must be patient to get the focus right and avoid overshoot. But since the screen is really only standard definition anyway, if you let the GV-HD700 downconvert to DV for firewire output, the delay is quit short and the display on the screen is essentially the same as when using HDV.I still give it four stars, because other than the spec issue, HDV delay is to be expected, and it is a much more cost effective deck than any other, like the MS10 or 15.Suggested enhancements (that is, cool features missing): 1. real HD display; 2. HDMI input for at least display purposes to minimize display latency for monitoring; 3. Component input, same reason as #2.

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7.0" Wide5 (16:9) LCD Display (1152K Pixels) --- Provides excellent viewing clarity with improved resolution. The 1152k pixel LCD rotates for multiple viewing angles providing sharp detailed images for monitoring or playback. x.v.Color Technology --- The GV-HD700 is capable of passing the x.v.Color signal recorded by your 2007 Sony HD Camcorders to your compatible HDTV. With the ability to reproduce nearly twice as many (1.8x) viewable colors than currently possible. LCD Profile Control --- Customize upto 6 different LCD sreen profiles (personal settings); choose from Brightness, Color Depth, Contrast, Sharpness and Color Phase. L and M Series InfoLITHIUM Battery Compatibility --- Compatible with both L and M series InfoLITHIUM batteries. You can now charge the battery at anytime because unlike NiCad (Cickel Cadmium) batteries, Sony's rechargeable Lithium Ion batteries are not subject to a life shortening "memory effect". Sony's exclusive AccuPower meter displays the battery time remaining in minutes, on the LCD screen.

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Canon DC420 DVD Camcorder w/48x Advanced Zoom - 2009 MODEL Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)The Canon DC420 Camcorder was my first Digital Camcorder and I am impressed with video picture quality. The zoom feature is way beyond my expectations as well as
the audio quality. Easy to operate once you figure out the instruction manual. I
certainly have no idea what the people who wrote this manual were thinking when they were writing it! Would have been much easier if one section of the manual was devoted entirely to the video application and a separate section for still camera mode. The way it is written you have to "jump" all over the manual trying to figure out what's going on. Also, there should have been a SD card included and software when you download a DVD to computer. I had to obtain a program just to convert the VOB files from the DVD to files for Windows Media Player and Windows Movie Maker.
Other than those couple discrepancies it is an absolutely super video camera and I would very highly recommend it. I won't say the Canon Support Group was great but they tried their best and overall I was satisfied.

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Introducing the new Canon DC420 DVD camcorder thatmakes every video you shoot great. With the new CanonDC420 DVD camcorder, it's easy to capture theextraordinary events of your life on DVD and show it onyour home theater. A 2.7-inch widescreen LCD andsimple-to-operate controls let you frame the action fromjust the right angle. Stellar features like Canon's 48xAdvanced Zoom for heart-pounding close-ups, DIGICDV II Image Processor for brillant picture quality andtrue 16:9 widescreen recording will keep your audienceon the edge of their seats. Quick Start conserves batterypower between shots and makes sure you're ready foranother take in less than a second. Plus, when you'reshooting, Canon's Image Stabilizer keeps every shot onan even keel. Stylishly compact, the Canon DC420 evenhas an SDHC memory card slot for photos. Get thequality and performance you're looking for with theCanon DC420. Canon USA 1-year limited warrantyincluded.

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Sony DCR-TRV330 Digital8 Camcorder with Built-in Digital Still Mode Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This camera was a birthday gift from my sweetheart and isundoubtedly the best there can be for ME ! But for all you guys outthere - here's what I found out.
1. Being digital hasadvantages... better resolution, color's great etc. Editing, however,is not so easy - takes time and the right tools (e.g. 'AdobePremiere') - so consider tapes being your primary storage medium. I'vemade VCDs and they're worth it but the quality is significantly lesserthan on tape.
2. Requires lots of light - outside it'sbeautiful... inside - JPG-like artifacts appear (also, colored dots ona perfectly white wall) But this is acceptable if you're *not* lookingfor professional quality.
3. Optical Zoom is great - 25X - one ofthe highest and definitely comes in handy. I've turned off digitalzoom (MoreThanYou'llEverNeed X) since it reduces picture quality and Ican anyway do it on the computer while editing. 25X optical is enoughfor most needs.
4. Picture stability (steady shot technology) isgreat - shots from a moving car are stable.
5. Buttons are a bit tooclose to each other - in my first exp., at a friend's party, I must'vemissed a cycle of on/off so, we got to see shots of table tops, walls;) and cleanly missed the action ;) fortunately this lasted for onlyabout 5 mins before i realized. The recording indicator is easy tomiss when you're concentrating on the subject (and if you've had ali'l too many beers ;))...
6. Memory stick stills taken in mediumlight again have JPEG artifacts and paying extra $... (over DCR-TRV230with no memory stick - you *can* take stills on tape) for this is notworth it if you have a digital camera already. However, your cameramight not have 25X optical zoom so think about it. This camera usesthe same chipset for video and stills. In more expensive models, thereare two chipsets.
7. Night shot (shooting in darkness) sounds greatand works great - if you don't mind loss of almost all color and agreenish tinge to everything. To our party, however, it gave a 'BlairWitch' effect - everyone loved it. It's better to have some normal(intruding) light source attached to the CAM.
8. MIC is verysensitive and sound has been amazing throughout.
9. LCD is great -less dotty than DCR-TRV530 and uses less battery (1"smaller).
10. The bundled battery lasts for about 75 mins on an avg- so you want to buy a backup for trips. Charging to FULL was somewhatslower than I expected.
This camera has some built-in editingfeatures which I am yet to explore fully.
To transfer the video tomy computer for editing, I had to shell out an extra $... for aFireWire kit. The installation on Windows 2000 was quite painless - itdid everything for me except plug in the card physically.
Overall a4 rating - a great camera and worth the money you put in - even inthis recession.

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The DCR-TRV330 is a great midlevel Digital8 camcorder. Digital8 utilizes the digital video format, but records onto Hi8 tapes, and can play your old Hi8 and 8mm movies. The 25x optical (28x digital) zoom is combined with image stabilization, a boon since high zooms can lead to increased shakiness. Additionally, the DCR-TRV330 features Sony's NightShot system for 0-lux shooting. An assortment of special effects and faders help give your footage a more professional feel. Also, a 16:9 widescreen shooting mode lets you shoot movies in the same aspect ratio as Hollywood films.
The black-and-white EVF is adequate, but the 2.5-inch color LCD monitor is the better bet for framing your shots. Digital stills can be recorded onto the accompanying 4 MB Memory Stick, and images can be downloaded to your computer via USB. Like all DV camcorders, the audio is recorded at CD-quality levels--PCM digital stereo. Should you need more professional sound than the built-in mic provides, a mic input jack is located on the camcorder.
Because the DCR-TRV330 uses the DV format, you can download your footage to a computer for editing using an IEEE 1394 cable. Analog pass-through ports are built-in, letting you digitally archive all your old analog footage. Also included are a shoulder strap, lens cap, battery, AC adapter, and remote control.

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Sanyo VPC-FH1 HD 1080p Flash Memory Camcorder w/ 16x advance zoom (Black) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)If money is no object and optical image stabilization is your primary concern, then I recommend you buy the Canon HFS10 or HFS100. Now, with that out of the way, you have to temper your expectations with what you paid for. This camera is at least $600 less than the HFS100 for basically the same image quality minus image stabilization. You will see that I compare this with the Canon a lot because Canon has been king of the camcorder scene for a few years now.
Pros:
The image quality is almost as good and even better than the Canon in some aspects (based on online reviews as I don't own the Canon). The low light sensitivity is excellent (there is an option to turn up the sensitivity level). The thing we need to keep in mind is this: camcorders are best when used in areas with plenty of light. There is really no reason to film at night unless you absolutely need to. For the times when you want to film the night light or night scenery, this camcorder does its job very well. When hooked up to my 1080p television, the video was spectacular. I can't imagine how much better the Canon would be but I'm very satisfied with this. I know that it's impossible for the Canon to be twice as good as this camcorder for twice the price, at least for me.
It is small! I can definitely take this with me on vacation every where I go and not tire out my arms. It's much smaller than I expected, almost like a toy. Having used 5-pound camcorders in the past, this is definitely a good thing.
I can now leave my point and shoot camera at home as this substitutes as a regular still camera, hence the dual camera moniker. It takes 8 meg stills (don't use the 12 meg option as that's interpolated) which is impressive for a camcorder this size/price. There are ISO adjustments which I believe is lacking in the Canon.
Cons:
Image stabilization. If you like to film videos without tripods, monopods then I suggest you stay away from this. However, for under $500, I was able to buy this camcorder and a tripod, 16GB SDHC, and a camcorder bag. No optical stabilization can match a tripod/monopod. If you're serious about creating timeless videos that you can view 20 years from now, you need a tripod. Period.
Yes, it would be nice if the image stabilizer was better for the times when I don't have a tripod with me. However, it's serviceable if I hold the camera very steady so it's not as bad as some people would lead you to believe. I don't plan on filming while walking very often so it's perfectly fine. If you have a shaky hand problem and hate tripods/monopods then stay clear.
You can mitigate shaking with (1) a tripod, (2) steady hands, or (3) deshaker software (free online). You cannot mitigate $600 or low light sensitivity. No matter what camcorder you buy, you will need a tripod eventually if you're serious about taking good videos. So budget that into your purchase plan.
Normally, I would deduct one star for the bad image stabilization, but for a camcorder with superb image quality, low light sensitivity, and the fact that I can throw in a 16GB SDHC, tripod, and camera bag (all bought separately of course) for around $500, it's absurd to dock a star for it. This is the best camcorder for the money.

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Take stunning Full 1080p High Definition video at 60fps and amazing 8 megapixel digital photos! The compact Sanyo Dual Camera Xacti FH1 delivers high performance results with multiple features normally found on much higher priced video and photo cameras.The FH1 packs tons of features which are sure to please the most discerning user; including 600fps slow motion mode, face chasing technology which automatically read and corrects focus and lighting for up to 12 different subjects, and 16x optical zoom for video.Its compact design makes the FH1 extremely portable and easy to use.Videos, still photos and the various settings and menus can be easily accessed with the user's thumb.The FH1's convenient design makes sharing videos and photos via social networking web sites, portable video devices like IPods, TVs and computers, a breeze.

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Sony DCR-TRV730 Digital8 Handycam Camcorder with Built-in Digital Still Mode Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)What makes this camcorder nice is the fact that it is very easy to use. You can keep this as simple as you like, or you can spend some time and learn the more advanced features -- but they are optional and learning them will not get in your way of making great home movies.
With no knowledge of camcorders and a basic understanding of how to connect the power to the cam so that you can charge the battery, you can start making movies.
Video quality is superb and the sound recording works very good. When compared to my old analog tapes the quality of a digital recording is amazing.
Once you master the basics (which is all you ever actually need to know) you can advance at your own pace and learn how to fade in and out and add great titles. Sony provides a number of easy to use titles that overlay on your recordings, or you can make your own.
The instruction booklet is thick with detailed explanations of what, why and when - but the first few pages use pictures and simplicity to explain how to use this unit right out of the box.
One great new feature: Sony has made it easy with scroll wheel that also depresses and allows you to navigate many menus with only your thumb.
I connected my TRV730 directly to my new desktop using the Firewire cable (included with your camcorder!) and loaded the software (Studio DV) that came with my computer (HP Digital Video Desktop System) and within minutes I was controlling my camera from the computer. There is also a USB port if you do not have Firewire capabilites.
I was able to upload several hours of old movies up and into the computer with no problems at all. This unit is backwards compatible (the TRV130 and TRV830 are NOT!) so you can view all of your old analog based recordings.
These new Lithium ION based batteries are great because you can charge them anytime you like without affecting the "memory" and you can charge the unit without ever removing the battery.
I have other cameras that use the first generation lithium-ions and found them to be great batteries that lasted and lasted. These next generation ones are simply smaller with the same amount of power.
Nightshot works great in low light conditions and SUPERnightshot makes it possible to record in virtual darkness. I walked outside on a pitch black night and zoomed in on the license plate of a car across the street and it read perfectly. No way could I read that plate with my own eyes and I have great vision.
The Steadyshot is seamless and works well. My last camcorder (the analog one) did not have this feature and you can tell the difference in my recordings. When you are zooming in, the effect of Steadyshot is increased.
The bottom line is that this camera has a lot of nice features that make it worth the price. The most important feature is that it is easy to use and the controls are intuitive so you can start using your camera as soon as it is charged.
I am a pro-Sony consumer and have spent thousands of dollars on various Sony items. I do this because they WORK and when they don't, Sony stands behind their products with a warranty.
You REALLY don't need those expensive in-house warranties sold at Circuit City and Best Buy, despite what you may read in other reviews. The only decision you should be making is where to save the most money.

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The Sony DCR-TRV730 is a full-featured Digital8 camcorder. Digital8 utilizes the digital video format, but records onto Hi8 tapes, and can play your old Hi8 and 8mm movies. The 18x optical (400x digital) zoom is combined with image stabilization, a boon since high zooms can lead to increased shakiness. Additionally, the DCR-TRV730 has a low-light shooting mode that allows for visibility in near darkness. An assortment of special effects and faders help give your footage a more professional feel. Also, a 16:9 widescreen-shooting mode lets you shoot movies in the same aspect ratio as Hollywood films.
The black-and-white EVF is adequate, but the large 2.5-inch color LCD monitor is the better bet for framing your shots. MPEG movies and digital stills can be recorded onto the accompanying 4 MB Memory Stick, which can then be downloaded to your computer via USB. Like all DV camcorders, the audio is recorded at CD quality levels--PCM digital stereo. Should you need more professional sound than the built-in mic provides, a mic input jack is located on the camcorder.
Because the DCR-TRV730 uses the DV format, you can download your footage to a computer for editing using an IEEE 1394 cable. Analog pass-through ports are built-in, letting you digitally archive all your old analog footage. Also included are a shoulder strap, lens cap, battery, AC adapter, and remote control.

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