Canon XL1S MiniDV Digital Camcorder
Average Customer Review:
Electronics (08 August, 2001)
list price: $4,999.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Small enough to carry around and costing not much more than a top-of-the-line consumer camcorder, the XL1S produces such high-quality results that it is sure to be the top choice for many independent filmmakers who demand full features and controls. Like its predecessor, the XL1, this camera uses three separate 270,000 pixel CCDs (one for each primary color) for the best picture quality. The XL1S records digital audio, with two channels of 16 bit/48 KHz sound or four channels of 12 bit/32 KHz sound. The body is based on a magnesium-alloy frame for maximum durability. It ships with a 16x optical zoom lens with optical image stabilization, but is also compatible with other XL camcorder lenses. With an optional adapter, you can use Canon EF (EOS) still-camera lenses--some of which also feature optical image stabilization.

The electronics of the XL1S have many advanced features, including a number of programmed AE modes, as well as both shutter and aperture priority modes. There are two different auto modes, one of which allows you to adjust any setting manually, if you want, and the other, which adjusts every setting automatically and lets you adjust nothing. A spotlight mode automatically compensates for difficulties when shooting a subject bathed in a spotlight. The computer-shooting mode gets rid of monitor flicker that happens when shooting a computer screen. There are also three different shooting modes: normal movie, digital photo, and frame movie. Normal movie mode is for any time you want to shoot video footage. Digital-photo mode records a still image for six seconds on the MiniDV tape and also captures any accompanying audio for a commentary track. The frame movie mode records 30 noninterlaced still images per second, instead of capturing 60 fps interlaced images. This mode isn't intended to be used for shooting video (playback may not look completely smooth). Rather, frame movie mode should be used as a burst, or continuous, shooting mode, like you'd find on a still camera.

The XL1S offers many new and updated features over the XL1. There is a 16:9 shooting mode where electronic lines draw are displayed through the viewfinder so you can compose your shots flexibly for later conversion to HDTV, where 16:9 is the standard. SMPTE color bars help establish a proper color reference for shooting and editing. Interval recording lets you shoot time-elapsed motion video with intervals from 30 seconds to 10 minutes. Zebra patterns help you determine overexposed areas in your shot so you can adjust the aperture and shutter accordingly.

Digital Video Format and IEEE 1394

The XL1S is a consummate professional creation tool that supports the established industry standards, MiniDV and IEEE 1394. Support of these standards make the XL1S a flexible video creation tool that interoperates with standard DV equipment and computer editing systems as accorded by engineering, scientific and broadcast communities.

DV Format Technology and Its Advantages

The MiniDV format supported by the XL1S delivers more than 500 lines of horizontal resolution -- a 25% improvement over analog systems. The DV format allows for near lossless transfer within digital editing environments for faster creation, increased productivity and improved production quality of final prints.

IEEE 1394 (DV Terminal)

The XL1S comes standard with a DV terminal that conforms to IEEE 1394 for digital transfer of video and sound, in addition to regular video and audio outputs. The IEEE 1394 (also known as FireWire®) standard allows editing, copying and recording of digital video over a single cable. This transfer format affords improved image and sound quality and is virtually free from generation loss.

The 3 CCD System

The XL1S maximizes the capability of the DV format by using a 3 CCD (charge-coupled device) system with a separate CCD for each primary color (red, green, blue). A beam-splitting prism separates light passing through the lens into individual color components and each is sent to its own CCD. Compared to a single CCD, the 3 CCD system achieves outstanding detail with highly accurate color reproduction suitable for the demands of high-end video production - wide dynamic range, low color noise, high-contrast detail, natural color resolution and low-aliasing. The 3 CCD system also makes advanced Pixel Shift (for increased image quality) and Low Light Recording (for increased flexibility) possible.

The three CCD image sensors in the XL1S, each with 270,000 pixels, were specifically designed to capture as much image detail as possible and for shooting under extremely low light conditions. The size of each pixel is 72 square microns - 150% larger than the pixel-size on comparable DV models. The result is an approximate 4 dB improvement in sensitivity. This improved sensitivity means that each CCD can capture more information at all light ranges. In super low light, the XL1S still captures crisp and clear digital data. Under extremely bright conditions, the Pixel Shift capabilities of the XL1S greatly reduces vertical white streaks and smears, making it a consummate field recording device for all conditions.

Because human eyes see green more clearly and readily, the green component of a video signal contains 60% of the picture detail whereas the red and blue components together comprise the remaining 40%. With the advanced Pixel Shift on the XL1S, the green CCD is physically shifted the equivalent distance of 1/2 pixel horizontally from the red and blue CCD, and the green signal is electronically shifted 1/2 pixel vertically. This shifting of the green CCD increases the sampling points, resulting in a system that is comparable to 410,000 pixel CCD systems in terms of resolution. With a larger pixel size and the process of Pixel Shift, the Canon XL1S gives wider dynamic range, better low light recording, reduced vertical smears, and high quality still images without sacrificing the highest resolution DV available.

Audio and Video Inputs and Outputs

The XL1S offers a plethora of means by which to get audio and video in and out of the camcorder. The XL1S is designed to handle two types of analog video input and output: using audio/video cables (composite) or S-video. There are four audio inputs and outputs. All connections are on the camera body.

What's in the Box

• XL1S Camera
• Zoom Lens 16x XL 5.5-88 mm IS
• BP-930 Battery Pack
• CA-910 Compact Power Adapter
• DC-900 DC Coupler
• SS-1000 Shoulder Strap
• WL-D32000 Wireless Controller
• SP-100 Shoulder Pad
• S-150 S-video Cable
• STV-150 Stereo Video Cable
• Lens Hood

... Read more

Features

• NTSC
• Three shooting modes: Normal Movie, Digital Photo Mode, and the cinema-like Frame Movie Mode and shoot in 16:9
• Record for up to 90 minutes on one battery charge
• Professional-quality MiniDV camcorder and still camera with 3 CCD lens
• 16x optical zoom lens (digital zoom to 320x) and image stabilizer
• Interchangeable lens system--can use Canon EOS lenses with optional adapter

Reviews (19)

great camcorder
i am currently in high school, in the media tech department. we do the school news, and produce some films. we currently have 3 kinds of camcorders, the sony dsr200, sony dsr300, and the canon xl1. most of the class perfers the xl1 for many reasons.
it is definately the easiest to use, it is very light weight, and has many options that other cameras just dont have. it has a firewire port directly on it to help get onto computers, though there are other ways.

i have personally used this camcorder, and i must agree, it is a wonderful piece of technology. a few months ago i had bought one of the new Sony handycams that burns to miniDVD, and i had nothing but disappointment, now i am looking into an XL1 of my own, because i know how to use it, it is easy to learn how to use, and there is so much more that you can do with it then most camcorders. if you are looking for something professional, and yet decent in price, you might want to consider the canon xl1

Canon XL1s - Be Wary of Service & Waranty
Canon still seems to have problems with it's lenses and how they interface with its electronic components, which means a blurry picture.For Canadians, there is only 1 service department in Calgary, while customer service is in Ontario.Imagine the bills trying to track down your camera over 2 provinces.Canon has somehow managed to keep this issue under wraps but it is a good idea to investigate where your nearest service department is and what kind of return time you can expect on repairs.The XL delivers great shots and definately looks the part, which can be important, but if it's not in your hands then it won't do much good.

Good Enough
As of now, the XL1S is a little outdated by some other cameras that are on the market, but the end product has very desirable results. I have used cameras like the Panasonic DVX-100, and the XL1 will suit your needs at least 90% of the time that the DVX will. There is no LCD screen, but the viewfinder does sort of double as one and the overall shape of the XL1 makes it unwieldy at times, and more convenient at other times.

Overall, if you have the chance to get this camera, then go for it if something like the DVX is out of reach. The XL2 is coming out soon apparently, which will probably drop the price of this camera and it would be a great opportunity for people on a smaller budget to pick up a camera that is capable of cinema quality pictures.
... Read more

Asin: B00005NKXS
Subjects:  1. Camcorder (Camcorders)   

Canon GL2 MiniDV Digital Camcorder w/20x Optical Zoom
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $2,999.99 -- our price: Too Low To Display
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

The Canon GL2 (like its predecessor, the GL1, and its big brother, the XL1) is helping to blur the line between consumer and professional video equipment. This camcorder borrows most of those cameras' professional-quality components and puts them into a more compact, affordable camera. Though it's small enough to carry around and doesn't cost much more than a top-of-the-line consumer camcorder, the GL2 produces such high-quality results that it could be used as a broadcast video camera.

The 3 CCD System
The GL2 maximizes the capability of the DV format by using a 3 CCD (charge-coupled device) system with a separate CCD for each primary color (red, green, blue). A beam-splitting prism separates light passing through the lens into individual color components and each is sent to its own CCD. Compared to a single CCD, the 3 CCD system achieves outstanding detail with highly accurate color reproduction suitable for the demands of high-end video production - wide dynamic range, low color noise, high-contrast detail, natural color resolution and low-aliasing. The 3 CCD system also makes advanced Pixel Shift (for increased image quality) and Low Light Recording (for increased flexibility) possible.

Professional L-Series Fluorite Lens
Canon has satisfied the demands of experienced image makers for years through the power, design and quality of 35mm and broadcast TV lenses. Canon's Professional L-Series lenses utilize Fluorite, a material which provides outstanding resolution, contrast, and color reproduction- especially in lightweight, high-magnification lenses. Incorporated into the lens on the GL2, Fluorite delivers the ultimate in clarity and image quality. The Fluorite element inside the lens defeats color aberration -- the effect when the components of light stray from one another within a lens, causing a reduction in sharpness, contrast and color. The Fluorite lens precisely controls components of light providing an excellent balance of these three critical ingredients of picture quality. This is unobtainable with conventional optical glass.

To further improve image detail, Canon has intentionally shifted the green CCD (which contains 60 percent of the picture detail) half a pixel horizontally and vertically. This shift allows more accurate interpolation, resulting in an image that Canon claims rivals those from cameras with 410,000-pixel CCDs. Each pixel is 72 square microns, which is about 1.5 times the size as those in competing camcorders. This increased size increases light sensitivity, allowing you to shoot in low-light situations.All this results in outstanding detail, with highly accurate color reproduction suitable for the demands of high-end video production. The GL2 also incorporates a 20x Professional L-Series fluorite optical zoom lens, which is equivalent to 39.5-790mm, as well as a 100x digital zoom.

Audio
The GL2's omni-directional microphone is designed to deliver realistic stereo sound. Using the GL2's advanced accessory shoe expands your audio options. Audio can be recorded in 16-bit mode on two channels on one track. Alternatively, audio can be record in 12-bit mode, where the audio track is divided into two, and two channels of audio are recorded onto one track, with the other left over for audio dubbing.

Optical Image Stabilizer
Canon's superb optical stabilization system corrects camera shake instantly so even hand held shots, at full telephoto, and shots taken from a moving car, are smooth and steady. And since it is optical, there is no loss of image quality inevitable with electronic image stabilizers. It perfectly complements the high picture quality of the DV format.

Digital Stills
You can turn your GL2 into a still camera by switching to 1.7-megapixel photo mode and capturing high-resolution still images onto the camcorder's MultiMedia/Secure Digital card. (One 8 MB Secure Digital card is included with the GL2.) The full-frame images are free from time-lag blur. A six-blade circular iris, as found on Canon's top-of-the-line XL1 and XL1S models, is used for professional exposure control, helping to deliver stunning video and still photos.

Inputs and Outputs
The GL2 comes with the standard DV IEEE 1394 port (also known as FireWire) for a super-fast, lossless connection to a PC or other DV machines. You can also connect to your PC via a USB connection to download still photos. The GL2 is designed to handle two types of analog input and output: using audio/video cables (composite) or S-video. Both connections are on the camera back.

More Features

• Three shooting modes: normal movie mode, digital photo mode, and the cinema-like frame movie mode.
• The Custom Key function lets you create and save your own custom settings so your common shooting modes can be readily duplicated.
• Digital effects are offered for a greater imaging variety, including fader, sepia, strobe motion, and black and white.
• With the Interval Timer function, you can record for a selected time with a selected interval--convenient for nature observations such as flowers or sunsets.

MiniDV Format
The Canon GL2 digital video camcorder uses the standard MiniDV cassette, producing the highest quality video possible from nonbroadcast equipment. The MiniDV format standard delivers more than 500 lines of horizontal resolution. And, because it records both video and audio as digital data, this information can be transferred--without any loss of picture or audio quality--to a computer for editing, then transferred back to DV tape, without a reduction in either picture or audio quality. ... Read more

Features

• Record for up to 65 minutes on one battery charge
• 20x optical zoom lens (digital zoom to 100x) and image stabilizer
• 2.5-inch LCD with 270-degree rotation
• Save to MiniDV tape or MMC/SD card (8 MB SD card included)

Reviews (24)

Best quality picture MiniDV 3 chip camera
I've used several 3 chip camcorders over the years that use the MiniDV format and as far as picture quality goes...this one delivered the best picture. I've used the Canon XL1, Panasonic's and Sony's first 3 chip MiniDV camcorders (forgive me, but I don't recall their model names because I only used them while working contract for some LO tv production companies) and I thought the picture quality on the GL2 was by far the best. I was very dissapointed in the quality of the XL1 by comparrison. The XL1 takes great images, but I can get Beta SP broadcast images from my GL2 (this requires a full knowledge of the manual settings, but I can also get great images using the auto settings). Reds weren't bleeding, flesh tones came out looking natural and the camera handles low level light very well. One problem others have had, that I haven't is the story all over the net about there being a hum in the audio. My audio has always sounded killer on this camera. You can record at 16 bit 44.1 kHz (CD quality) stereo (an external mic is recommended for professional projects which can be easily attached with an RCA stereo adapter).
Bottom line, I've shot numerous video projects and a DVD with this camera and was blown away by the results. The DVD footage especially turned out killer (you can transfer video from the camera to a computer editing system without losing image quality via firewire). For the price and image quality, I think this is the best value out of all the 3 CCD MiniDV format cameras out there.

I love my GL2 very powerful camera for the money
What can I say about the GL2 that hasn't already been said.What drew me to this camera was the 20 X. optical and the still picture function.When I was making the choice between this and the XL1S I chose this camera because of the LCD display.This is something the XL1S does not have and I feel is needed so you don't always need to look through the eyepiece to size up a shot.

I think the best feature of this camera is Frame movie mode.where the camera takes 30 still frames a second instead of interlaced video.This keeps action shots from being blurry.

This camera will do what you needed to do takes great pictures.Even in low light.The wide-angle lens adapter, I feel is a must have also.So I recommend this camera!

Check out this web site for updated information on features
http://www.dvinfo.net/canongl2/index.php

Have fun and get it done

The GL2 is an unreliable camera
After just one and a half years of use representing around 200 hours of filming the manual zoom function acquired a mind of its own. There is no true manual zoom on this cam so if the internal logic that interfaces the zoom buttons both top and side goes whacky you lose control of zoom. This camera also has a real and serious focus lag problem if you do any sports/action shooting.

Optics and image quality are tops in its class but what difference does that make if you can't control the friggin zoom! ... Read more

Asin: B00006FXHQ
Subjects:  1. Camcorder (Camcorders)   

Canon EOS-1Ds 11.1MP Digital SLR Camera (Body Only)
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $8,999.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Canon EOS-1Ds is the world's highest-resolution professional digital camera, featuring the first-ever full-frame 35mm sensor with 11.1 million effective pixels. The EOS-1Ds captures astounding detail and color, almost doubling the resolution considered state of the art for a digital SLR camera in the world today (September 2002).

With its extremely high resolution, the EOS-1Ds is designed to meet the needs of a wide range of professional photographers--including studio, commercial, reportage, or fashion photography--who need the ultimate in digital image quality.

Optics
The camera's imaging engine is one of the keys to its exceptional quality. The advanced chip assembles and processes image data captured by the sensor to achieve color accuracy and wide tonal range equivalent to digitally scanned images from conventional film-based cameras.

The EOS-1Ds can capture images at approximately 3 frames per second for a 10-frame burst, even at the highest-quality setting. It also has almost three times as many pixels as the super-fast EOS-1D.

Each of the camera's 45 focusing points is linked directly to Canon's exclusive 21-zone metering system. In addition, the metering system also allows photographers to choose from center weighted, central partial, central spot, focusing-point linked spot, or multispot metering.

The EOS-1Ds features a color matrix function: Five settings provide a choice of two color spaces (standard sRGB or expanded Adobe RGB 1998) and four variations in color characteristics for sRGB. This feature applies to JPEG as well as RAW images, and allows EOS-1Ds image quality to be matched to the requirements of the subject or output device, ranging from four-color offset presses to desktop color Bubble Jet printers.

More Features

• Ability to dial in color temperatures to meet specific lighting conditions
• 10 white balance (WB) modes and WB bracketing provide maximum flexibility and superb color accuracy
• ISO speed bracketing allows you to fix aperture and shutter speeds, yet shoot at three different equivalent film speeds
• Fully compatible with all Canon EF lenses, from ultrawide-angle to super-telephoto

Image Sizes

• RAW: 11.4 MB (4,064 x 2,704 pixels)
• Large/fine: 4.1 MB (4,064 x 2,704 pixels)
• Large/normal: 1.7 MB (4,064 x 2,704 pixels)
• Small/fine: 1.4 MB (,032 x 1,352 pixels)

Storage and Transfer
The EOS-1Ds comes equipped with an IEEE 1394 (FireWire) interface, allowing speedy plug-and-play data communication with computers. For studio photography, new 4.5-meter FireWire cables are available. The camera automatically formats the CF card for either FAT16 or FAT32, according to the maximum storage capacity (FAT 32 is selected for capacity higher than 2 GB).

Images are stored on CompactFlash Type I or II cards (Microdrive compatible). You can create up to 500 subfolders on each CF card with each folder storing up to 9,999 images

Power, Size, and Contents
The camera is powered by a rechargeable NiHM battery pack (included). It measures 6.1 by 6.2 by 3.1 inches and weighs 44.6 ounces. This package includes the EOS-1Ds digital camera body (no lens included), NiMH battery pack (NP-E3), NiMH battery charger (NC-E2), DC coupler kit (DCK-E1), AC adapter (PA-V16), FireWire interface cable (IFC-200D6), neck strap, hand strap, eyecup (EC-II), EOS Digital Solutions CD-ROM, Adobe Photoshop 5.0 LE CD-ROM. ... Read more

Features

• Compatible with Compactflash Type I and II cards and IBM Microdrives
• Connects with Macs and PCs via Firewire port (IEEE 1394 )
• Battery life has been improved by reducing power consumption; powered by NiMH battery pack
• World's first digital SLR that can prove its images are unaltered, original files
• Accepts Canon EF lenses; 3 fps for up to 10 consecutive frames

Reviews (4)

11 Mega Pixels is not a random number!
I've recently learned some interesting detail that came from a talented amateur photographer.A friend of mine from work, had done a number of spectacular scenic shots.He thought to enter some of the better ones into a professional competition. While he had a good Cannon digital, (I believe it was a 7 or 8 mp) requirements for digital are 11 mp minimums.While expanding the lower resolution is allowed, it would still fall a bit short (since it only allows a certain percentage).It seems that professional film use cameras, typically deliver the equivalent of 20 mp. The proper film is expensive, and getting it developed is not as easy as taking it to the local Photomat.

I know computers and software.My programming exploits placed me for a time at Polaroid ID systems. Polaroid ID, (prior to its sale by the parent company in 2001) produced drivers licenses, and ID card solutions, for more than half the United States, plus several countries. I have a background in video games programming by training.What I can tell you from this is that you need a fast processor to create, and store an image 11 mp in size.Cannon's custom processor seems to be up to the task.My friend told me his current camera used the same processor, and produced the highest resolution shots in about 1/5th of a second. This model does about three continuous shots per second.While not quite film or motion capture speed, it's still good enough not to inhibit your creativity.

If photography is a serious hobby, or you are a budding professional, this might just be your camera.Existing professionals will probably make up their own minds on when to jump to digital, and what equipment best meets their needs.Cannons entry here seems reasonable for a quality digital camera.You may see many other cameras pump up their numbers in a race to get the higher resolutions. They seem to be bristling with bells and whistles.There's a not so subtle difference with a professional model like this.That being it has features for professional imaging and the speed of getting to that next high quality shot.

The other cameras will raise the bar one day, but for now they are best used by non-professionals.If you compare the camera's specifications, you'll find speed, and feature limitations on those cheaper models.This is not the camera to take on that vacation to the mountains.A good four-mega pixel model will keep all your family photo albums up to date.If however, your vision for looking at the world through the camera's eye extends beyond that, this may be the camera for you.BTW, remember this is a body only, you buy your optics separately, and it's not advisable to go cheap either.

If you don't want to limit your creativity ... this is it.
After years of being a very faithful Sony user (I still like Sony and their products) I finally did the big leap, as in my mind the technology is finally there ... I bought a Canon EOS-1Ds 11.1 Megapixel camera body. Out of necessity I had to buy a set of EF lenses as well. I spent this years toy budget on just one purchase, but then THIS IS NOT TOY!

My last Sony was a F828 and before that a P10. The F828 is a great consumer product for the price, but it actually made me do the leap as good as it is, as it brought back my spirit for creating a REALLY good picture. I started to spend so much time to get to the right photo spot at the right time, that I did not want to have a lack of functionality then. I used to do a lot of photography 20 years ago on film, but returned as a point and shoot fotographer when digital came about. To say it with fellow countryman 'Arnie' - "I'm back."

First I need to say that all Amazon partnershops performed and delivered flawlessly, my special mention goes to Adorama Camera. I would usually be worried to spend so much money on the web, but Amazon takes that away.

Now to the 'beast' itself the EOS-1Ds body. I will not go into all the functional details, as to my mind they are all correct as stated. The camera is great to hold and work with total confidence. But at first - big disappointment. I was unable to concentrate on working with a professional camera. I was too used to point and shoot and expected the camera to do it all for me. Well, it does not. You need to know or learn photography for this one. It is now four weeks and 2500 pictures later and finally there is only one reason for a photo not to be perfect - ME!

Biggest difference to other products is the film-size 24x36 CCD and the ability to set the ASA film sensitivity up to 1250 on the fly rather than having to change film. Not always is a tripod at hand or the photo subject would wait until you set it up and then hold still for a 2 second exposure. I could not ask the helicopter pilot to stop the vibration during a dawn flight over the Las Vegas Strip. Setting to ASA1250 shortened exposure time to s/50. The picture noise that you get as a consequence is dramatically reduced by the noise reduction feature and much less than the grain of a high-sensitivity film.

Cautions and recommendations: Learning how to clean the sensor from dust and dirt without damaging it is essential. This camera is VERY heavy you will need a strong tripod to hold it. Buy a second battery, even so the charging is quick and it usually lasts for two normal days of use. Using a CF card reader is easier than buying a Firwire attachment for your PC. Use 2GB high-speed Compactflash for convenience, it will give you 400 pictures in JPG. Feel free to send me questions, which I will answer as much as I can.

Prosumer
I have shot 35mm for 30 years and paid for the best prints from the best labs and they just can't compare with high end digital prints.The detail goes way beyond 35mm and easily challenges medium format.I am still learning color manipulation on the computer and occasionally I get better color from a Velvia slide - which I am now shooting with the same Canon lenses and a 1v body - but overall it is becoming increasingly clear that film is as dead as video tape and vinyl records.I traded up to the 1Ds from a D60, which also produced prints much better than 35mm.The drawback to the D60 was a poor autofocus and a less than full frame sensor, which limits the use of wide angle lenses for landscape photos.The 1Ds solves those problems and potentially makes larger format cameras obsolete at the same time.

The only problem I have found is that the 45 sensor autofocus setting does not work with a very wide angle (16mm or 15mm fisheye) lens.For some reason, it won't focus at infinity.Switching to the center only focus sensor solves the problem.The 1v and Elan 7 do the same thing. ... Read more

Asin: B000087HCP
Subjects:  1. Digital Camera (Cameras)    2. Photograph (Photography)   

Velbon UP-4000 Photographic/Video Unipod
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $29.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

The Velbon UP-4000 Unipod provides stability to picture taking withoutslowing you down. The UP-4000 has a four-section extruded aluminum leg with adirect-mount camera platform, a wrist strap, and a polyurethane handgrip. Theside-lever leg locks allow for fast setup and fold-down, and an adjustablerubber foot with a concealed steel ground spike keeps the unipod in place. ... Read more

Features

• Polyurethane handgrip
• Direct-mount camera platform
• Rubber foot with concealed ground spike
• 4-section aluminum leg
• Quick side-lever leg locks

Reviews (6)

lightweight and it locks tight
This is a very nice accessory to have.As someone else said, a monopod is NOT supposed to stand on its own.You still hold the camera and it's meant to support it and reduce shake.I still use my tripod more, but for things like sports, plays, etc. where you really can't use a tripod, this comes in handy.You also should consider a head for it.I have a cheap Bogen 3232 that allows you to more easily mount the camera AND allows you to rotate 90 degrees in a jiffy. The only problem I have with it is that the sections sometimes get jammed and they are hard to pull out.This doesn't happen all the time, but does sometimes.But it's so cheap it doesn't matter.Also, make sure you extend starting with the top sections on down.This makes it more stable. That applies to all monopods, not just this one.

unipod
people don't understand the use of a unipod. they're not supposed to be used in replacement of your tripod. you would bring this to a play, or something of that nature. to keep the camera from shaking. it's not supposed to stand on it's own.

A "Must Have" !
For the Telephoto Camera user this is a must have item to capture those "Once In A Life Time" shots. Its much handier to use and carry than a Tripod. Everone should use one for every shot. You'd be surprised at the quality of your pictures, no more blurred shots from the shaking of a hand held camera. This Unipod is a basic model, but its all you need and it's advantage is that it is very light weight compaired to more elaborate models. The only thing you might want to consider adding is a Ball Head Camera Mount. Also at the end of a long day of shooting, with it's padded hand grip, you can use it as a Walking Stick! ... Read more

Asin: B00004TY7Q
Subjects:  1. Monopod (Mono Pod)   

Apple Power Mac Desktop M8841LL/A (1.42-GHz DP PowerPC G4, 512 MB RAM, 120 GB Hard Drive, DVD-RW/CD-RW Drive)
Average Customer Review:
Personal Computers

US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Apple’s speedy, affordable Power Mac G4 roster is capably headed by the futuristically styled and appointed M8841LL/A Power Mac. If you require the ultimate in power or simply enjoy being on the cutting edge of computer technology, the M8841LL/A Power Mac is well worth your consideration.

Driving this impressive unit are not one but two PowerPC G4 processors, each running at a speed of 1.42 GHz. Although this clock rating may seem low compared with the latest Pentiums, consider that each features an enormous 2 MB of DDR SDRAM Level 3 cache. With 4 MB of fast-access L3 cache, a dual-processor configuration, and 512 MB of fast 333 MHz PC2700 DDR SDRAM memory (expandable to a full 2 GB), the M8841LL/A Power Mac is an extraordinarily fast desktop machine. The one potentially weak link is the system’s graphics card, a 64 MB ATI Radeon 9000 Pro that will easily handle most applications but won’t smoothly render the latest 3-D games. Serious gamers may want to upgrade.

The unit features a variety of data storage and transfer options, including a massive 120 GB hard disk and a DVD-R/CD-RW SuperDrive, through which you can burn and store home movies, record and play audio CDs, and back up important files. Other desirable amenities include one high-speed FireWire 800 port (twice as fast as USB 2.0 for ultrafast interaction with external peripherals such as digital camcorders), two standard FireWire ports, four USB ports, and an Apple Pro keyboard with 15 programmable function keys.

Wired connectivity is available through an internal 56K modem and built-in 10/100/1000Base-T Ethernet interface. Wireless LAN and Internet support is offered via an AirPort Extreme card expansion slot. The M8841LL/A system includes just a single speaker and no display screen, but offers provisions for any level of audio-video configurations. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Fasten your seat belt
The G4 computer really takes you for a fast ride!

We recently upgraded our computer network at the Indiana Literacy Foundation, and the G4 server is at the heart of it. Now, of course for comparison, you have to realise that this is the first upgrade in years, and our old server was a PowerMac 6100. Fast in its day, that day is a distant memory.

We are so happy with the G4. We run a 4D database system that once took an incredible amount of time to process (we would literally click a request and then go get coffee, and it might be done when we returned). Now, it is appears almost instantaneous. Productivity has skyrocketed (and will be much better when I've debugged the 4D upgrade).

Beyond the speed, there are a few features I must comment upon as being above-and-beyond in the G4 server design. I like the fact that it has two power supplies -- if one fails, the other will keep going so that we can arrange downtime at our convenience, and not at the whims of gremlins in the machine. Also, it has a unique fold-down design that makes adding, swapping and repairing things inside a snap. Just unplug the back, lift up the latch, and it's open (no screws to lose inside the machine, no difficult snap-apart manipulations required). There is a security lack that can be padlocked or otherwise secured to make sure the that the internal pieces are safe from unwarranted removal.

We have a small LAN, consisting of the server, 6 other Mac computers, and two printers. This server is serving us well.

A great machine, however...
I have this computer, and I'm writing from it right now.It is a very, very, very good computer, by far the best I've ever had.However, there is news about Apple coming out with a new chip, better chips then the G4, and I mean coming out with these chips sometime soon.I wish I had known this while I was getting my computer.It's perfect if you're going to be doing professional audio/video/image work.I'd get it with 2GB ram, and I have 2-180GB hard drives.
There has been one problem I've noticed.From time to time, the hard drive will almost lock up, and it will take it a good second or two for it to respond.If I'm running iTunes while this happens, it stops the music from playing.I don't know exactly what the problem is, but it's nothing that really bothers me.

It is a very expensive computer, and you should only get it if you know what you're getting into.But I'd wait until they come out with their new OS, codename panther before I got a new mac.By then, I'm sure they'll have a better computer along to go with their new OS.Panther will hopefully come out sometime this year, I think I heard October.

I guess all technology is that way though.The second you buy it, it gets old, and the thing you got is cheaper.So beware that if you're getting this because it's the top of the line, well it isn't going to stay that way for long, and I'd personally wait until they come with their new chips.

Power Mac 1.40 M8814LL/a from Amazon
I hunted for a week and could not decide where to get this machine or if I wanted the 17" Powerbook with the cool keyboard. I saw the M8814LL/A here but it said it had a 2x DVD-R and only one processor which was 1.40. Well it arrived at the estimated shipping time and it is a 1.42 with a 4x DVD-R and wow. Ever had a compute make your heart race?

Now let me first tell you that I am not new to MAC but I have been involved in the PC world since 1983 and never had much to do with the MACs until I found a 233 iMac cheap and bought it for a toy. Well it became the center of my attention and I soon bought a Powerbook G4 Titanium 400. Sweet machine as well but we are here to discuss the 1.42 PowerMac Dual G4 Processors.

The case is heavy, 50 pounds heavy but made very well and has easy access for making upgrades or simple maintenance. I installed another optical drive and another hard drive. The machine has 2 ATA 33 ports, 2 ATA 66 ports, 2 ATA 100 ports and room for 2 Optical drives, 2 hard drives in the back near the ATA 100 and 2 drives up front near the ATA 66 ports. It has 4 OPEN PCI slots. These are restricted to 33 Mhz but it increases the possibilities of upgrading to a new level. The Memory is easily upgraded as I dropped in another 512 meg and there is room for 2 more 512 megs for a total of 2 gigs of RAM.
The machine is faster than the 400 G4 that I had been using to render my movies and photos with. So much faster that I no longer have time to go and fix my lunch. I find myself spending more time on the computer than normal but I am being more productive with my time and may actually get ahead of myself and have nothing to do but watch a movie on the Mac while playing around on the net.
Virtual PC now runs Windows 98 about as fast as a 400 or 500 Mhz PC and it is quite nice to have for that software that you have had for 10 years and just can't part with.
Only problem I have with the machine is that my wife and 9 year old are taking it over as she is involved in scrapbooking and photography while he just loves the cinematic features in Warcraft III on the 19" Cornea DVI LCD. I told him Warcraft will run on the PC but he says it is not as much fun on the PC as it crashes some times and the graphics are not as good.
If you get this computer, then get the big screen. You will not be disappointed. One thing I noticed while at the Apple store, the screens look so small in the big rooms and counters they have them displayed on, but when you get them home they are huge and beautiful.
Do I love my new Mac? Yes.. ... Read more

Asin: B00008CQJN
Subjects:  1. Apple    2. (Mac)    3. (Macintosh)   

Apple PowerBook Notebook 17" M8793LL/A (1.0-GHz PowerPC G4, 512 MB RAM, 60 GB Hard Drive, DVD-R/CD-RW Drive)
Average Customer Review:
Personal Computers
list price: $3,294.99
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Editorial Review

Early Adopters Pick: February 2003. The world’s first laptop computer with a full 17-inch display and widescreen dimensions.

With the stunning PowerBook 17-inch G4, Apple merges incredible power, a 17-inch widescreen display (the largest display of any notebook and the same screen dimensions as a 19-inch CRT monitor), and an impressive array of conveniences into a state-of-the-art aluminum alloy enclosure. A true desktop replacement in every sense except in its remarkably space-efficient, 6.8-pound, 15.4-by-10.2-by-1-inch stature, the PowerBook 17-inch G4 is ready for anyone who appreciates and can afford the cutting edge of mobile computing technology.

The PowerBook 17-inch G4 ensures you’ll stay connected in any environment. For wireless situations, the unit features integrated 802.11g AirPort Extreme--the fastest wireless connection available on a Mac--and new Bluetooth support. For traditional setups you’ll find a host of wired connections, including high-speed 10/100/1000Base-T Ethernet facilities, a low-speed 56K modem, one IEEE 1394 FireWire and two USB 1.1 ports, and a variety of audio and video ins and outs. System controls include a unique fiber-optic backlit keyboard with laser-etched keys that’s right out of the future. It even features a light sensor that automatically adjusts the keyboard and screen brightness based on the available ambient light. Average battery life is estimated at an admirable 4.5 hours.

The unit is built for speed from the ground up. Driven by Apple’s dynamic 1 GHz PowerPC G4 CPU (256 K of DDR SRAM Level 2 cache, 1 MB of DDR SRAM Level 3 cache), a generous 512 MB of PC2700 DDR SDRAM (expandable to one full GB), and a powerful 64 MB nVidia GeForce4 440 Go graphics processor, the PowerBook 17-inch G4 is ready to handle virtually any application you can throw its way. To help you load, store, and transfer all your important programs and data, Apple has included a monstrous 60 GB hard disk and a versatile DVD-R/CD-RW SuperDrive optical drive through which you can record home movies and video, burn audio CDs, and back up critical information. ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Great machine with it's limits
Very nice screan is the first thing you'll notice here. The side to side angle of view is pretty wide, while the top to bottom isn't. You'll need to have the screan angled directly at you for optemimal viewing. The promised battery life is a joke of course. Without using the optical drive at all you might get 2.5 hours from it. I suspect the promised 4.5 hours happens only if the hard drive never moves and backlighting is off. It does seem to sleep for a good long time on battery though. As others have mentioned, the cooling system is a bit awkward. You have to keep the machine on a hard flat surface or it will overheat. The track pad is really awkward and I really dislike it. You cannot tap the pad instead of clicking the button the way i can on my addesso keyboard. That means mouse chores are two handed. The last down-side i can think of are the built in speakers. Don't expect much here, they're only basic speakers not loud enough or full frequency. You'll need to hook up something external to get a decent sound.

On the up side; This a nice slim design and the machine seems very stable. I have not problem putting it to sleep and taking to and from my office. (Be prepared to pay extra dough for the 17 inch carry case. I payed $... for mine!!!) It comes loaded with OS 10.2 which is a solid dependable OS. Among other things i use it for Final Cut Pro and deffinately adding the extra 512 ram is a good idea. The 1ghz speed is nice, handles big jobs smoothly. The reason I got this one instead of the 15 inch was because i thought i'd like extra screan realestate. I do think it's worth the extra $... Finally I can goof off and watch a dvd on this thing in my office. That's pretty cool;)

Bottom line is this an expensive machine with lots of plusses and several minuses. I'm glad i got it and would get it again. Just, don't expect too too much.

Best computer I ever had
This is the best computer I ever bought. I stopped using Macs after buying the Apple IIc (a long, long time ago in a galaxy far away) but when I saw the 17" I thought it was perfect.
I runs great and is perfect for business when you want a desktop replacement product.
The only problem with it is the weight which sometimes is exhausting when carrying around for a complete day or on business trips. But that's a small price to pay when compared with the incredible benefits it provides.

Great, but not good for portability
Ive had my powerbook for 1 1/2 years now and I there are two unignorable problems I have.Otherwise the powerbook is a great purchase.

My first problem is that the computer cools itself by conduction through the bottom.As a result, the bottom gets really hot, which is a total bummer when you're literally using the computer on your lap.Also, because of the design, this computer will overheat when placed on a carpet, or bed.If you want to keep the computer quiet and working efficiently, you got to put it on a flat table.

Second problem for me was the hinge which connects the screen to the rest of the computer is weak and snapped.It was hyperextended accidentally because my little brother was throwing pillows around.The old clamshell iBooks could have taken the beating.

Finally, the monopoly Apple has on replacement parts (such as power adapters) can be counted as a negative. ... Read more

Asin: B000087BHX
Subjects:  1. PowerBook    2. (Power Book)    3. Notebooks (Note Books)    4. Notebook Computers    5. Laptops (Lap Tops)    6. Apple    7. (Mac)    8. (Macintosh)   

Apple Cinema HD Display 23" LCD Monitor
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $2,000.00
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Features

• Incredibly wide 170-degree horizontal and vertical viewing angles
• Lightning-fast pixel response for full-motion digital video
• Full 23-inch diagonal display area
• Supports 1,920 x 1,200 resolution for high-definition video and stills
• Designed to work with the Power Mac G4 digital graphics interface for distortion-free images

Reviews (26)

too expensive, but undeniably good
I got one of these and you get what you pay for with this screen. The problem is you pay a lot.

Its a very nice screen. Nothing more I can say. Never seen a nicer LCD anywhere. Only reason I dind't give it 5 stars is the price (which is astronomical).

I use it to watch movies, do work, everything. I don't even have a TV.

By the way if anyone knows if a DVD player that I can hook right up to the DVI input of this I would love to find one. DVD player makers are retarded, I havn't found a good DVD player yet that is made to work with DVI (for computers, not DVI for HDTV which apparenltly for some stupid reason is not compatibly).

If you get the 30" model you don't need a TV or HDTV. Its much better than all that crap anyway. HDTVs can come in bigger sizes but the quality is so much worse you are better off not getting one.

Excellent monitor
The screen itself is excellent.Especially since you can get a (...) rebate if u buy it together with an Apple G5 Powermac.Buy one you won't be disappointed.Also, Apple will release a 30" display in the Apple WWDC (...)

Phenomenal product - my best purchase in 2003
I bought this monitor from Amazon almost a year ago.I am still amazed at how big it is - and I mean big in terms of usable screen space.I have it hooked up to my Intel based PC using a DVI video card.It is aesthetically beautiful as well which was a nice change of pace from my previous large screen monitors which were not much to look at.Everything looks good on this screen.High res digital photos, computer games, the 2+ full size Internet browsers that I can place side to side and still have room left on the screen.In short I am really glad I spent the money on it. ... Read more

Asin: B000067V08
Sales Rank: 31759
Subjects:  1. Flatpanel Monitor (Flat Panel Monitors)    2. Mac Macintosh Machintosh Apple    3. Apple    4. (Mac)    5. (Macintosh)   

DVD Studio Pro
Average Customer Review:
CD-ROM

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Editorial Review

DVDs (digital video discs) store high-quality MPEG-2 video, pristine Dolby Digital audio, and computer data, all integrated and playable from a single DVD-video player or DVD-equipped computer. DVD authoring is the process of combining all these elements into an interactive program. With multiple video and audio tracks, camera angles, multilingual capabilities, linked menus and buttons, Internet integration, and other features, an authoring project can involve complex procedures and scripting.

Apple's new DVD Studio Pro includes a great tutorial, along with associated media files, that demonstrate and explain the basics of the application. We ran through the tutorial in just over an hour, gaining a working knowledge of DVD Studio Pro's interface and functions, authoring language, and an inspiring taste of its power.

Installation is simple and painless. Three separate applications are installed on your hard disk within the host folder: DVD Studio Pro, Subtitle Editor, and A-Pack, for encoding AC-3 (Dolby) audio. QuickTime Pro must be installed and registered separately (you'll need it to encode QuickTime MPEG video). The elegant interface will be recognizable to Final Cut Pro users. In fact, DVD Studio Pro is designed with Final Cut integration in mind for creating source material. You can also use other video and audio applications with a compatible MPEG encoder.

Navigation within DVD Studio Pro is easy enough--there are four main windows with clickable tabs and drop-down menus. Video, audio, and graphic items can be imported or drag-and-dropped into the Project window. These items, known as assets, are detailed in the Property Inspector window. The Inspector lists all the attributes of every element, and contains text fields and drop-down menus for setting and changing their properties. The Graphical View window lets you navigate visually through your project's assets via folders that include a thumbnail image of the asset, and buttons that launch audio tracks, subtitles, markers, stories, and camera angles.

Building interactivity among the assets is, generally speaking, as simple as highlighting an element and specifying actions and attributes in the Property Inspector. In this way, you link program elements together in an interactive chain. Furthermore, DVD Studio Pro supports Adobe Photoshop layers for elaborate still menus and buttons that change state when activated. The indispensable Preview window allows you to immediately verify your event chain and make changes without burning a test disc. Likewise, a debugging feature lets you test all the links before multiplexing; during multiplexing, you can monitor the progress and respond to and fix any errors that might occur before copying to finished disc.

For extremely complex projects with multiple program chains and real-time encoding, DVD Studio Pro might not be the best answer. Expect to pay at least three times as much or more for higher-level authoring, though. With DVD Studio Pro, Apple has superbly reduced the potentially overwhelming nature of authoring in an easy-to-learn, powerful application that can't be surpassed at this price. Remember that this program is only version 1.1. Stick with and master it over time, as it's sure to get even better. --John Bosch ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Version 1.5 available Summer 2002.
Follow a link, or search for the latest version. ... Read more

Asin: B00005KG34
Subjects:  1. Mac Macintosh Machintosh Apple    2. Computer software (programs)    3. Video    4. Composting    5. Effects    6. Editing   

Apple Final Cut Pro 4.1
Average Customer Review:
CD-ROM (14 June, 2003)
list price: $999.99
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Reviews (6)

Professional, impressive features tainted with complexity
Final Cut Pro 4 is undoubltely the hyped "creme de la creme" of video editing software available from Mac, hence it's expensive price tag. If you are accustomed to ease, instinctive interfaces then you might want to think again when considering the purchase of this product. Although its wide variety of dazzling effects and features is truly amazing, this power hungry program is definetely not for the faint of heart. If you're a professional that has the paitence to accustom yourself to perhaps the most bizzare complex editing interface (i.e. simply having so many features can almost be a negative aspect) then this program is certainly for you. If you are use to feeling confident with an editing program "right off the bat" then consider reading up heavily on the manual and perhaps taking a training course before even using the program, because it's loaded with myriad features. Although, while working with the program at school I never experienced any crashes or major bugs, I'm sure there are definetely some annoying ones (any editor knows that more complex and abundant the interfaces/features are, the more likely the chance there isroom for programming errors).

Despite the Hype, FCP 4 is a Step Down for Many Power Users
Unfortunately, several time-saving, creativity-enhancing features that I was accoustomed to in FCP 3 were removed for FCP 4. Functional draft renders, my favorite (albeit flawed) feature from FCP 3 no longer exist.This is quite an area of debate, but experienced editors should see why the new (largely useless) rendering system is far inferior to the previous one.The life-saving Shift-F function is also gone, the new "automatic" capturing system makes file management horribly inconvenient, and the online help file has been replaced with a cumbersome .pdf document. Support for Adobe Photoshop files is still poorly implemented. The bundled LiveType program is also much more awkward to use than one might expect from how it's been marketed. (LiveType is not an integrated extension of FCP, but a completely separate--and SLOW--application.)At this point, I feel I am a less efficient editor for having made this upgrade. Why Apple could not build on what they had instead of dropping helpful features is beyond me.

Regardless of what you hear...
I have been editing for 20 years. FCP on a Dual 2.0 Ghz G5 is the best editing solution for the money I have ever seen. It blows away the $75k+ systems that I have used for less than a tenth of the price. FCP at less than $1,000 and a G5 at $$$$$$$ is all you need other than a camera. You can make broadcast quality video with this simple setup. $$$$$$$ for computer and software plus $$$$$$ for a camera that will hold up to a $$$$$$$Betacam... give me a break!! ... Read more

Asin: B000095SBY
Sales Rank: 2202
Subjects:  1. Computer software (programs)    2. Graphics    3. Multimedia    4. Edit (Editing)    5. Image Capture Capturing    6. Mac Macintosh Machintosh Apple    7. Video    8. Composting    9. Effects    10. Editing    11. Apple    12. (Mac)    13. (Macintosh)