5 comments about Panasonic Pro AG-DVX100B 3-CCD MiniDV Proline Camcorder w/10x Optical Zoom.

1. This is the camera you need to shoot videos, movies, commercials, shorts, weddings, sporting events, family gatherings, and just about everything else in between. I own several formats of movie cameras both video and film and have worked with just about every brand and type of Prosumer and normal grade camcorders around and this is by far the best thing since film. It can look any way you want it to, if you know what your doing, and have a few extra bucks for attachments and learning booklets and or dvd's. Nobody said making movies was easy, but its the greatest job a person could ever have or dream for. This camera records 16:9 similar to but less than HD quality but with a great film look. If you buy the panasonic anamorphic adapter it adds the ever so famous dof look that every movie has. Over all this is the best digital 24p film quality movie camera for under $5000.



2. this camera suprised me with how good it was, i knew it had been used in tv before, and in a few films, but i had no idea what i had gotten myself into. the image quality on this is beyond anything else. and the built in microphone does wonders. only flaw i have about it is the zoom. this camera comes with a 10x optical zoom. which is still nice, and i dont know how much more zoom i really need, but it would be nice to have 20x. but for the price you pay. you cant go wrong



3. I bought my first DVX100b around May-June 07, and my second this April of 08. Impressed enough to buy a second one.
   But really this camera is a well rounded DV camera. Its about as good as you can get with out going HD.
   The shots are solid as well as the quality of image. It does not take much to learn the controls, yet in no way is it consumer level technology. Between the white balance controls, the light gain levels, and the 3 filter settings this camera can adapt to a wide range of settings. The color and clarity of the image is brilliant but where the DVX100 really impressed me was in low light conditions. I am a wedding videographer and I was terrified of the reception because theres usually very little lighting and the footage looks black. The DVX100b can keep a good quality image while in very low lighted settings.
   The only problem I really had was when I first used it, it was difficult to keep a steady shot. Still with practice over time it becomes easy to hold and have a steady shot.
   Above all this camera is freindly for those who have never used a pro camera before, and customizable enough to fit even the best of professional videographers. I recommend this camera to any videographer out there, I especially recommend this camera for those that are beginning and need a camera that can hold you together until you get your style down.



4. I bought this camera on Amazon with $[...] Panasonic rebate. the item quality build is top notch. Look very professional.
   -Pro : Image quality is excelent with Leica lense, sound quality with XLR connector built in -48V , no external -48V needed, 24P is main buy of this camera, I used to have GS400 this is big upgrade for me, thanks for the DVXUSER.COM that offers a lot of information you can learn from that.
   -Con : personally I think not good for travel due to the weight of the camera if you have a strong arm then will be OK. Because during traveling you do not carry tripot and carry camera long time that make your arm get tired. I use the GS400 for travel.
   Conclusion : excellent image quality , quality of sound, decent zoom, only minor problem is the weight factor for me.



5. I'm not going to rant on & on about all the features & how they compare to ALL the other models, you will go NUTS trying to keep each models pros & cons straight in your head & get dizzy after a while!! LOL I know I did!
   After TOO much research, I broke down & finally bought this camera & let me tell you, we have been nothing but pleased in that decision! One of the key deciding factors, besides the most 'BANG" for the buck, was ALL the online user help groups with very active forums & myriads of artcles & info to ANY question that a new user could EVER need! We have had it for a year & we have yet to call Panasonic with ANY questions, as they are readily answered by a quick post or search on the dvx user forums! I am currently looking for a good fluid head for our camera as my son wants to film hunts this year & bought a tree arm, but the 503 Mafrotto, is proving to be elusive,as it has been discontinued , but happens to be the one my son "NEEDS" wouldn't you know!! LOL
   
   Anyways, I highly recommend this for the new (or experienced!)
   "PRO" filmaker, It's been a 100% POSITIVE experience for us! Hope this helps...
   
   BTW, I know HD is the new wave of the future & the ultimate way we will eventually switch over to, but not until the prices come WAAAAYYY down!

1 comments about Canon VIXIA HG20 AVCHD 60 GB HDD Camcorder with 12x Optical Zoom.

1. I got this camera today, I wanted to get HG10 as it is cheaper, but I went with this one as it has higher Hard Disk capacity with small price difference.
   The first test video taken was indoors and with low light, I noticed lot of dots in the frame, however, after setting the AWB to indoor and exposure to low light, the video looked much better, then I tried the sport setting with 24p and the video was impressive!! I hooked the camera to my 40" HD LCD TV, and the colors and sharpness are breathtaking!!
   
   One tip is to use the P (Programmed AE) setting with different selections of White Balance, the LCD screen is clear enough to make a quick decision on the fly to pick the best selection, I used 3 different settings walking in day light, then on a shady area, then inside a shop.
   
   One thing to note that the battery works only 2 hours, Canon offers better battery with 4 hours duration priced around $100.
   
   You also need to read the pros and cons of the video codec, there are lot of information on the Canon HG10 reviews, and very useful. In general the higher the frame bit rate and resolution, the longer it will take to process and edit the video and much longer to burn it on DVD or BluRay.
   
   I actually found out that Google's Picasa 3 application (free download) can open the videos recorded by the camera, this tool can export any clip (or portion of it) to wmv format, once the file is exported, you can use any video editor like Microsoft Movie Maker to compress the file or change it to DivX format, etc.

5 comments about Deluxe Accessory Kit for the Sony Handycam Camcorder HDRSR10, HDRSR11, and HDRSR12.

1. This is a great collection of items for a starter and specifically the tripod is great (though a piece broke out because I loosened it too much, within 5 minutes of use).
   
   BUT the battery doesn't work for my hd sr-11! this was the main reason I bought this particular pack and I can't even use it. If I didn't like the other stuff so much I'd try and return it, but this is just a shame.



2. You get a lot of stuff for your money. The problem is that much of what you are getting you will never use. I new this before purchasing, but when I added up the cost of what I knew I would use, it already reached the purchase price, so the way I looked at it, the rest was a "freeby".



3. The product arrived on time. The tripod was missing a part, but a call to the company resulted in a replacement being shipped right away. The package contains all sorts of goodies. I ams sure that I can get better quality stuff, but for what I am using it for, this is great!



4. This is a pretty decent collection of stuff. I bought it on behalf of our local town museum that has just started an oral/video history project and is on a tight budget. The SR11 took a pretty big bite so there wasn't a lot left over for extras.
   
   Now understand that most of the package is aftermarket product, not "Sony" but not bad either.
   
   I was a bit incensed at first when I plugged in the battery after charging it with the supplied charger and got a "cannot use this battery" message from the camera. Well, turns out that it isn't designed to have the same contacts as the Sony batteries do(but it does snap in place OK) and has a jumper wire and port that bridges the battery output to the DC input of the camera, a fact that I missed when I skimmed over the instructions. I subsequently connected it properly with the jumper and the camera worked just fine. There is also a second port on the back of the battery that can be connected to the Sony AC Adapter to charge the battery in place. I can't speak to the issue of battery life yet because I'm only a day into it.
   
   I felt bad about prematurely sending a "Howler" to the vendor, but also felt it important to point the battery situation out to both potential buyers and existing buyers that might have suffered the same confusion that I did. It really is a decent deal and I did receive the merchandise in good condition and on time.



5. Shipment was in time.. battery does not work for sony hdr sr12 rest is ok

5 comments about JVC GR-DA30US MiniDV Camcorder with 30x Optical Zoom.

1. My grandaughter saved all her babysitting money because
   she had wished for a camcorder for a long time. She
   found the fairest price shopping online at Amazon.
   She is extremely pleased with the product and I am happy
   to have been a help in getting her wish.
   Thanks again,
   Ann



2. I love this video camera. I really can't say anything more than that. It is great. It has a ton of features. So easy to operate. So light weight and compact. I love this video camera. Oh! I already said that. So it on another website, but it was refurbished, so I came to Amazon and it was only 20 dollars more new, so I bought. Can't complain.



3. I bought this camcorder bcuz I have relocated in Asia and wanted to be sure I could save some of the fabulous views here. I have enjoyed the ease of operation and the quality of the recordings. I'm very happy with my choice of this product.



4. This would be perfect - except that it is difficult to see the screen in bright daylight. Otherwise, a really great deal.



5. I bought this camera to video my daughter as she grows up. It is easy to use and very simple to set up. The picture quality is fairly good.
   The only problems with it are it doesn't come with a case and it doesn't come with a firewire cable. The cable only costs a dollar, and I can't see why one wasn't included.

4 comments about JVC Everio S GZ-MS100 Flash Memory Camcorder w/35x Optical Zoom.

1. I have had this camcorder for about a month. The main reason I bought this camcorder was for convenience. I have MiniDV camcorder as well, but I never got around to uploading video from camcorder to computer and then converting AVIs to mpeg to DVD. The workflow with MiniDV was too time-consuming and needed a lot of system resources (1 hr AVI takes about 13GB disk space!).
   
   This camcorder was great. For around $320-ish, its great value. Its totally solid state, no moving parts. I use 16GB SDHC card (around $50-ish), that card can record about 3hr58min video in best quality. The battery lasts about 2 hrs. I doubt I will ever shoot more than 4 hr video in a day. you can always back up your video on a computer at the end of the day or buy multiple SDHC cards.
   
   You can use the included USB cable or a SD card reader to upload mpeg files to a computer. You can upload video and burn a DVD in as little as 10 minutes (if you go straight to DVD and do not edit). You can also upload your video you-tube or other video hosting websites. It comes with included software that is supposed to make YouTube uploads easy for the user. I like to do it myself, have not used the software that much.
   
   The picture quality of this camcorder is amazing. Its not a HD camcorder, so don't expect wonders on your HDTV, but picture quality is very good on SDTVs. The low light capabilities of this camcorder are great. However, auto white balance under light bulbs (indoors) is not that great. You will get better results with manual white balance. Recorded sound quality is OK, not great, but OK. It comes with 35X optical zoom, which is the best in its class. It has digital image stabilization which works very well. this camcorder does allow some manual controls for the enthusiast.
   
   JVC has this new laser touch based interface. It sure looks fancy, but is not great to use. It takes a little getting used to and you never really get a hang of it. Its not very accurate. But this is a simple camcorder and most uses will use it in auto mode all the time. So, the laser interface is not a deal-breaker kind of a thing.
   
   This is a very small camcorder. Its very light. Its easy to handle and feels firm and secure in my hands. It does not come with a neck strap (I just use the one from my previous MiniDV camcorder). It has a built-in lens cover, which is better than some pastic-ring-tied-with-thread lens caps which are annoying. The included battery lasts about 2 hrs. It can also take still pictures, though I have never used it to take still pictures so far.
   
   Overall, I am very happy with my purchase and would definitely recommend this to a friend.



2. My wife and I are expecting so I started reasearching what cameras to buy. I was very confused at first with all the different models and options but eventually wanted something easy to use or else it might just gather dust. I settled on getting a camera that used memory cards because of fewer moving parts and the ability to easily transfer data to a computer. I visited stores in the area and I really liked the JVC Everio but the downside was there were only models with a hard drive. About a month later I found out there was a new JVC Everio model using SD cards and I quickly bought it. This camera is so easy to use it's great. I simply flip the viewer open and can start recording in a second. Great zoom, lightweight, and the lasertouch control panel makes it so easy to adjust settings. I just taped a two hour lecture the other day and it was easy. When I got home I transferred 4GB of data to my computer in minutes. My wife who has two left thumbs even finds it easy to use. Battery lasts about 2 hours so I will probably buy a bigger battery. I bought three 4GB Class 6 SD cards which each hold an hour of footage at the best resolution. I made the right chose and I am happy I didn't make a mistake on this as I have on other things in the past.



3. After weeks of looking at all the camcorders out there (minidv, disk drive, memory card) I chose this one. Sure, it was easy to use but! the picture quality was something else. If you leave it in auto, it's hard pressed to give a good quality video. If you use it in manual mode sure it's better but not by much. It was too time consuming and cumbersome to adjust everything manually in order to get a good video. No matter what I tried, the highlights were blown out and even in low to medium sun, highlights on someone's skin were just too much for the camera to handle. And if I did find the perfect combination of settings (with manual mode) to give me a good quality video, the moment had passed. The small L.E.D light that comes built-in is pretty much worthless when it comes to shooting inside. Even with sufficient lighting inside, the camcorder is not that good. The manual that came with the product was substandard I feel. Didn't even discuss how to make adjustments in the manual mode, had to figure it out myself and quite by accident. Listen, if your satisfied with an average picture and don't really put a whole lot into editing, then this camcorder is most likely what your looking for. On the other hand, if you are the type that does do a lot of editing and effects for a good presentation then you'll want to stay clear of this one. About the only good thing I can say about this product is that it's easier to down load the video to your computer by either the included cables or a seperately purchased card reader and that it is small and compact. So, needless to say, I returned it.



4. I wanted to get a camcorder that recorded onto SD cards so I could place the card into a media reader, download the footage, and edit in Sony Vegas. Here's what happened:
   
   Forget about the camera's Quality settings for video. You'll probably want to set it to the highest setting, and never touch it. I get 2 hours of widescreen footage on an 8GB card at the highest quality setting. By not using any moving parts to record an image, camcorders like this are reduced down in size to (roughly) a soda can!
   
   Having downloaded some test video to my Windows XP PC, I noticed that each video file has a separate 3K document that tags the video as being full or widescreen. Because this tag isn't included in the video, editors like Vegas will open ALL the video as fullscreen. However, look for a free program online named SDCopy which puts the tags in the files. Don't worry -- it happens as quickly as making a copy of the file. It's not like SDCopy has to "process" or "render". While I wasn't crazy about this extra step, I can live with it.
   
   Now that my widescreen footage opens as widescreen in Vegas, I can say the image quality of the resulting DVD is outstanding! Footage shot outside was colorful and remarkably clear, and nothing looked cheap or pixelated. Footage shot inside (normal lighting condition) produced images on TV that look better than reality.
   
   The Laser Touch feature works OK for me, and is a gimicky way to navigate though the settings. It also keeps the weight of the camera down. Battery life is good (no moving parts), but I'll be buying a 2nd battery and a changer.
   
   I like that this camera has a built-in lens protector that snaps open and closed. The 35X optical zoom is a huge step over my last camera (also a JVC) which had a 16X optical zoom. The only complaint I have about this camera is that the door to the SD card compartment is more like a plastic flap that gets shoved closed. It feels like you may break the thing every time you go to open it. Also, like many camcorders made today, this camera has no optical viewfinder -- only the LCD screen. That may be something to consider.
   
   Overall -- a very small camera that produces stunning video at the highest quality setting. And isn't that why you use a camcorder?

5 comments about Canon GL2 MiniDV Digital Camcorder w/20x Optical Zoom.

1. Great camera , Great price. Bought this camera for my 16 year old son. He makes skateboard videos also tapes games for High School sporting events.
   After editing on his computer the finished product looks very professional!
   The camera is used daily and is very durable.No Complaints from him at all! Canon GL2 Mini DV 3 CCD Camcorder & 1GB Pro Opteka Accessory Kit



2. If you are looking into buy this camera....DON'T. get the Sony HDR-A1U High-Def camera it's 20x times better,newer,same price and High-Def.if you buy the GL2 you will get the "remove the cassette" warning after about a year of use!!!!!



3. I love the camera, however i've been having firewire problems with it since i got it.At first i thought it was my software-not,then the firewire itself-not.It is the port on the camera that is the problem. the conncection doesn't seem to complete the interface and it flashes 'dv in'and never stays connected,needless to say this is frustrating.I have to use another camera to upload footage into my editing program-is anyone else having this problem?



4. I bought 2 GL2s new 4 years ago and have used them extensively in weddings, stage productions, sports camps, live events, training, interviews, and in every way imaginable except underwater and for video thats inappropriate for all ages. I even take them on vacation!
   
   They have worked flawlessly in every instance. I can't say that the low light performance is stellar, but I have never had any sort of failure or lock-up. SO......why do some complain of cassette errors. I can't say for sure, but I suspect that it is because they fail to adhere to one simple tenent that professionals live by--ALWAYS USE THE SAME TAPE. NEVER SWITCH! The issue is that manufacturers use different methods or formulations of lubrications on tapes. Mixing brands can lead to all sorts of problems as the incompatible lubricants can form a paste that "gums up the works."
   
   Perhaps I have been lucky, but perhaps my diligence avoids problems other experience.
   
   It is a great camera. Do not be concerned about the tape transport--be concerned about the quality and brand of tapes you use, and you will enjoy many years of incredible video. Other thoughts:
   
   -While I have several wireless and shotgun mics for "business," I can recommend the Canon DM10 for casual work. The on-cam mics are not bad, but they are omni-directional. The DMS-10 provides a narrower field of sensitivity.
   
   -I also own the WD-58 wide-angle lens. It is sharp! No worries with fall-off. Just be sure to remove any filters you have on the camera first.
   
   -While there may be better deals out there, it is difficult to believe that anything works better than the ZR1000 Wired Remote Control. I love them!



5. The Canon GL2 is NOT a hi-def camcorder, but it still holds up for it's picture quality and durability. Over the past 3 years, we have produced over 20 instructional videos using this camcorder and the quality is evident every time we use it. I suspect that many of these will start turning up in the used market in the near future since these well made camcorders will likely still be functional well into the hi-def age. We will very soon replace our GL2 as our main camera with the Sony HDR-FX7 3-CMOS Sensor HDV High-Definition Handycam Camcorder with 20x Optical Zoom, but will continue to use it for picture-in-picture shots (very useful in instructional videos). We also recommend the following accessories: Canon Video Light for Advanced Accessory Shoe, Canon Directional Stereo Mic (DM 50) for Camcorders with the Advanced Access Shoe, Ultimate Guide to the Canon GL2
   
   Highly recommended!

5 comments about Sony DCR-DVD108 DVD Handycam Camcorder with 40x Optical Zoom.

1. This was a gift for my boyfriend and he loves it. Its easy to use, the quality of the picture is great for the price, and its small enough to bring anywhere. FYI it does not come with any of the discs.



2. I have had it for over a year now and love the quality and ease of use. It produces great family videos!
   
   My only complaint is that it's hard to find compatible video editing/burning software. I finally found Sony Vegas Movie Studio 8 with Dvd Architect 4.5 This software is necessary to make great family dvds with this camera. Try the free download at sony before you buy.
   
   Would definately recommend!



3. This is my first camcorder and I love it. It is easy to use and creates wonderful scenes full of color and detail. I have had this camcorder about a year or so now and am still very happy with it. Of course, when I bought the camcorder it was much cheaper and offered by Amazon (free shipping). All I can say is it is a wonderful product for those starting out. The 40X zoom is the best part of the camcorder. The zoom is so powerful I was able to film a family of foxes from far away. The footage looked as if they were right there. Wonderful cam!!! I am one happy handcam mom!



4. Ok I bought this item in 2007. I love the camcorder it works great. But now I own a new computer with wondows vista and guess what? Its not compatable. SO now what? I have a camcorder and can't get any videos on my computer. This really sucks. Sony should have some kind of software or something to make this compatable with windows vista. I've only owned this camcorder for a year and now I'm afraid I will have to buy to buy a new one.



5. This is an easy to use little camera with a great zoom. The color and definition is far better than I thought, in well lit areas. In lower lighting the color is flat, the picture is darker than the surroundings and not real clear. For outside, daytime, or well lit rooms, it is perfect.

1 comments about DXG DXG-595V 5.0 Megapixel High-Definition Ultra Digital Video Camera.

1. COMPANY: Some reviews of DXGUSA products mention that DXG is a United States company. In some of the advertisements for DXG you might even notice a California location. DXG does maintain an office in "City of Industry" California, however, according to the DXGUSA web site their products are manufactured in Taiwan, ROC (Republic of China). It is a common practice for overseas companies to have a local US office and add the suffix "USA" to its name, however, the consumer should understand that buying DXG is not supporting the red, white and blue.
   
   Contributing to any country of origin confusion is DXG's executive board. Most people who would communicate with DXGUSA would do so through the sales, marketing or customer service departments. There you will find persons of responsibility with the names of Goldberg, delRosario and Castillo, respectively, which lends to an American image. Digging slightly deeper you'll find that those company executives with positions of major authority have Asian names. Some Japanese and Chinese companies have been known to send their own executives to the U.S. in order to run the company as if it were in their home country. Others may use U.S. addresses while company executives remain overseas. It's unknown if DXG is participating in either of these practices.
   
   PRODUCT:
   
   THE GOOD - [Price] The DXG 595V is the cheapest flash memory camcorder in the High Definition market. Wal-Mart offers this camera at a price of $180.00 with free shipping if ship-to-store is selected. Unfortunately, however, a Wal-Mart order for this camera took several weeks to leave the warehouse and was eventually lost in shipment. Amazon with its price tag for the camera of $202.00 delivered to your door is the next lowest on the net. Delivery via free Super-Saver shipping with UPS arrived two days ahead of schedule to the East coast.
   
   [Size] The DXG 595V is just about palm-sized and is very light weight thanks to its all plastic construction and few moving parts. The style of the camera is also more conventional than most of the low-cost camcorders available today.
   
   [Recording] If your desire is to capture some family moments and events in a digital format that looks almost as good as those large VHS tapes you used to use then the DXG in a standard definition mode is the right camera. Video and sound was very fluid while recording stationary objects as well as moving in a vehicle. The camera handled low light conditions well, though the image did become somewhat grainy, and the LED light is some help at close distance.
   
   [Simplicity] The 595V sports few features and, therefore, is ideal for those who are not interested in a learning curve prior to using it. The integrated manual lens cover is a nice idea and circumvents the old problem of a lens cap dangling during the action. All controls are easily accessible.
   
   THE BAD: - [Battery Life] The DXG battery, (NP-120), is said to provide 1.5 hours of recording time. This will vary dramatically based on how the camera is used. There appears to be an automatic focus function in the camera that cannot be deactivated. This auto focus constantly attempts to physically move the lens in order to maintain proper picture focus. Though slightly slow, it does a good job. If you're filming a nearly stationary object it is possible to get over two hours of recording time in the WVGA standard definition mode. If, however, you're filming a constantly moving object, such as a car trip along a scenic highway, you would be fortunate to get thirty minutes of power from the battery. This may be caused by the constant auto focus on all the moving objects in the frame. Batteries are important because it is not possible to use an AC wall adapter to supply power to this camera. So you may want to purchase extra batteries because a full charge could take up to three hours.
   
   [Surface] Some online reviews of this camera have complained about the smooth surface displaying finger smudges. You should keep a soft towel with you if this is an OCB for you but it shouldn't be a deciding factor in your purchase.
   
   [High Def Recording] Once you set the recording mode above the WVGA standard definition format you're recording video that is reminiscent of an old silent movie. Subject movements are very choppy and sudden camera movements will split the image. This camera may proclaim its HD quality but it's really only a good SD camera.
   
   [Memory] Although the DXG 595V has internal memory it is not user available. The internal memory is reserved for settings so you must purchase an SD style flash card prior to use.
   
   [Documentation] Poor. That's about as detailed as DXGUSA gets in their own description of the 595V's features. Some of the documentation is also misleading such as references to the camera's microphone which are listed in two different places on the camera in two different guides or the wrong item circled in an illustration. Directions for updating the camera's firmware are no different. The instruction, "press the negative of enter button," is practically cryptic.
   
   THE UGLY: [Warranty] DXG's written warranty that comes with the camera states that, "This warranty covers all parts and labor for one (1) year from the date of purchase." However, it later states, "Not covered: flashes, cords and cables, batteries, power adapter, digital media, software, LCD, lens and additional accessories, other expenses or consequential damages." So, the camera is covered under the warranty but the camera parts are not.
   
   [Customer Service] The DXGUSA customer service web site is less than helpful. Some self-help pages lead to blank pages while others have only three suggestions - none of which even pertained to the 595V. An email to DXG customer service complaining of a battery problem resulted in the following response:
   
   "We apologize for the set back. Unfortunately, our warranty does not cover accessories."
   
   DXG considers the included battery to be an accessory along with the camera's lens and LCD screen.
   
   Although this response was sent from the email address of Carlos Castillo, Director of Customer Relations for DXG, the sender's name was posted as Chad Meza. The message was also stamped at five hours time difference from US Eastern Time. A trace of the IP address the message was sent from, (207.210.80.162), reveals that the server being used was located in Atlanta, Georgia, but the DXGUSA message appears to have originated from Jalandhar, PU India.
   
   After responding to DXG's first reply Chad Meza sent another response, this time addressed from himself rather than Mr. Castillo, which stated:
   
   "I apologize for any inconvenience, however, an accessory is anything that is not physically attached to the camera."
   
   This response was particularly puzzling since the LCD and lens which were specifically not warranted by DXG are "attached to the camera."
   
   RECOMMENDATION: Unless you need only standard definition video and you're willing to consider the camera as "disposable" This product is not recommended for purchase. The reliability of the product is unknown and should it fail, even under the warranty period, there is little or no support for the product. As DXG stated in a response to this reviewer:
   
   "Once you purchased that product, you as a buyer take full responsibility and cannot later hold the manufacturer, vendor, or distributor accountable for the conditions of the product. "Buyer Beware" Is a phrase that we cannot emphasize enough."
   
   According to the Better Business Bureau DXGUSA has had fifteen complaints against it in the last thirty-six months. Twelve of these complaints pertained to DXG agreeing to comply with their contract. The BBB does, however, give DXG a very good rating.

5 comments about Aiptek GO-HD High Definition 720p Camcorder with 3x Optical Zoom.

1. This is my first DV as I always hesitate if I need a DV or not. I know many people who own a DV but told me that they only use it twice a year after spending a few hundred bucks and then it is out of date. I decided to try one just for the reason that it is inexpensive, under $200 and found the video quality is so good.
   Now I've used it for couple of months and I would give 4 star review for it. It is a perfect beginner's HD DV, as what it is supposed to be.
   First, the video quality is so good in 720P, I put some screen capture online and one can hardly tell the difference with those still images captured with a digital camera. Even in low light conditions like indoor or at night, the noise is still very low. I'm surprised how they could do that with a CMOS sensor. I know some DC can capture videos in 640X480 or even 1024X768, but they use the sensor in fast exposure mode and use motion-jpeg compression, the video noise is very high.
   It is an idiot proof consumer product, there's not much you need to set or control, just turn it on, start and stop recording, zoom in and out, review, turn on light.
   It is so compact that you can put it into your purse or pocket.
   It uses SD card, which is inexpensive now, buy a 4GB sdhc and you are all set(almost two hours recording time). Take the SD card out and put it into your computer, then you can play it with many software like quicktime. I never tried the software comes with the package but I recommend Kmplayer, which is free and you can download anywhere. Its decoder is the only one that plays the video clips on my 1.3G laptop smoothly.
   The battery life is short, like 30-45 mins, but I found most of the clips I shot are no longer than 5 mins. and I do know this is common for most if not all HD consumer DV's. Try searching reviews for those sony and canon one. Fortunately it comes with two batteries in the package.
   The biggest problem is it does not have anti-shake or image stabilization function, so you have to hold it very steady to get good shot. Unfortunately, for consumer DV, I found it is always a problem, even those who have IS function, they still have the problem. The CMOS camcorders use rolling shutter, which causes weird effect like smear. even for those expensive one. so my suggestion is: using a tripod, or don't move while shooting.
   And audio, the most clear sound it can capture is the voice from the guy who is shooting. Outdoors, the wind will make a noise. But again, do some research you will find it is again a common problem for consumer DV. Fortunately this does not bother me, I only enjoy the image but not the sound most of the time. when I edit the clips, I simply replace the audio with music as background. If audio is important for you, try find one which can use external directional mic.
   A minor issue is its plastic feeling and smell, which makes it felt cheap, very bad marketing in US. but don't be fooled by the outlook, it is worth every penny.
   so I would highly recommend this one if you are planning buying a DV and don't want to spend a lot money. Canon HF100 is another option, which will drop below $[...] soon. or Samsung at $[...]. you can review HD clips at www.vimeo.com before making your decision.



2. I have owned this camcorder for nearly six months. It has been a very disappointing purchase.
   
   The audio gets very scratchy at times. I have seen this happening when recording musical programs where there is continuous loud audio. Video quality is so-so. In the name of HD, it creates huge video (.MOV) files, but the videos that I capture from my Sony MiniDV camcorder (in DV format) are much better in clarity and quality. The zoom is almost useless because of the absence of steady-shot feature. Even with a tripod, I have seen the video quality reduces with zooming, though it shouldn't happen with the optical zoom.
   
   Still pictures: It is very easy to mess up a picture. Half of my still pictures come out to be out-of-focus or shaken.
   
   If you are not in a hurry to go HD and if you are considering this camcorder because of the attractive price, WAIT... I can see that the Sonys and Canons are coming down on price.



3. I purchased one of these when they first came out in May. I loved the video! Much better than my Canon TX1 or my Sanyo CG6! The sound was ok. There was no noise from the auto focus/zoom motor.It was a very early production model. It kept locking though so I had t return it.
   I then purchased another one thru amazon and noticed right away the there was a horible noise coming from the auto focus/zoom motor everytime it had to refocus or if you zoomed. You could feel it in your hand and during playback you hear a very-very noticable ratceting/clicking type noise. It just totally ruins the important moments I captured. I sent it back to amazon.
   They sent me another replacement and I could not believe it but it was even worse! I have sent it back to and still waiting for a refund.
   Amazon says that the problem must be more widespread than they had originally thought!
   Well I have not totally given up on Aiptek. They have just come out with a new model called the Aiptek A-HD. It does not have a mechanical zoom so it cannot make noise. The price is also less at 169.00!!
   
   UPDATE: The new Aiptek Action camera does not have the zoom motor noises but overall is still the same camera.
   I just bought a new Kodak V1253 that blows every other camera I have purchased away in all areas except the Sanyo HD1000 has slightly better video but that's it so I am now using a very inexpensive Kodak V12530 over my 800.00 Sanyo HD1000



4. i love this thing. the video looks great when filmed outside with a steady hand. i don't use the zoom because digital zoom always looks like crap in my opinion. for the price the video quality is freaking amazing but the mic leaves a lot to be desired. boy what i wouldn't give to have one of these when i was in high school or travelling the world in the navy. the h.264 is a great format btw which is easy to edit in premiere elements but you must have a fast computer. i wish i could buy a $600 version of this type of camera for the extra build quality that price would offer. bottom line, this camera is great for quick shots and the video looks nice on an hdtv.



5. i have had this camera for about 3 weeks now and just love the convenience of carrying one device for both video and still pictures. its also lighter and smaller than my other devices. its very easy to use. picture quality is good in daylight or well lit area. it gets grainy in the dark and does not look great especially when viewed on an HD TV. audio is ok, zoom is basic. i usually just walk closer to my subject instead of zooming as i get better audio capture. still pictures are great and the flash works fine. battery life is good and i love the fact that i can charge it with a USB cable or one of many usb chargers i have for the cell phones.
   overall it is a good buy for the price.

5 comments about Panasonic SDR-SW20 Waterproof Flash Memory Camcorder with 10x Optical Zoom (Red).

1. I have read all the complaints about video quality but unless you are shooting at night or in very dim lighting you have nothing to worry about. Besides, there should be no surprises related to quality if you read the spec's before you bought the camera.
   
   That said I have been using this camera in fairly heavy surf here in Southern California and I'm extremely pleased with it's durability so far. The tiny rubber gaskets worried me at first look but after having the camera thrashed a bit in heavy white water and just general rough play I'm not worried anymore. The video quality underwater is amazing. Definitely the most fun feature of the camera. And the main reason I bought it! Any clips you watch on youtube or any other site do NO justice to how clear the quality is. Those websites use compression software that kills video quality. When you watch the videos on your T.V or computer they look perfect.
   
   The reason I gave it 4 stars and not 5 is because I find getting the videos to play on my computer is not as easy as they made it sound. I also noticed the "squished" effect that the above reviewer mentioned and I intend to download the SDCOPY software they recommend. I also have noticed that randomly the sound becomes muffled and a buzzing can be heard. Again the above reviewer mentioned that this could be due to water contacting the mic.
   
   Other then those 2 problems (which are by no means major) I highly recommend this camera to anyone looking for a durable water proof camera to use swimming, surfing, or any other adventurous outdoor activity. For the money I think it's a great bargain.



2. Well, I was VERY excited about receiving this camcorder, the only thing missing from my arsenal for my kayak fishing expeditions...a waterproof camcorder to get thos underwater shots just below the kayak when something interesting wass on my line or stirring below the surface. Two trips, 2 submersions and now 2 trips to Panasonic repair center in Illinois. Not what one would expect from Panasonic. Of the footage and photos I was able to take I was very dissapointed in the color...very bland. If I could do it over again I would go with the little Pentax W60, primarily a digital camera but with excellent video capabilities as well and highly endorsed by other kayak anglers.



3. This is a good overall camcorder for under water and recording kids soccer games. Not excellent video quality, but good for underwater, kite surfing, playing in the water with the kids. I found the software included very helpful in quickly getting the video footage onto dvd without too much to learn. Very simple and easy for basic needs.



4. Great for all "WET" sports. Just had it out in the ocean jumping waves on a PWC and it got soaked and took great videos. Finally able to download onto my MAC computes with ease now. The stillshots are adequate. Am waiting to take videos while snowboarding.Would highly recommend the camcorder for any "wet" sports.



5. I have used this camera since early 2008. The best things about the camera are the small convienent size, waterproof and it uses SD cards. The camera has turned out to be our camera of choice unless we want good quality still photos. I used the camera underwater in Aruba and St. Johns. The 8gb SD card lasts a long time and requires at least two battery charges to fill the SD card with pictures. A typical weeks vacation does not fill one SD card for me. Just in case I bought 2 SD cards and 3 batteries and I never run out. 3rd party batteries work well and are inexpensive.