Motorola MPx200 Smartphone - Next Generation (AT&T)
by AT&T Wireless
Average Customer Review:
Wireless Phone
list price: $299.99
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Editorial Review

The Motorola MPx200 combines the power of the desktop with Windows Mobile and the "always at hand" convenience and quality of the Motorola mobile phone to make life simpler, smarter and more synchronized for the mobile professional. The The MPx200 features mobile versions of all the essential Microsoft applications you depend on, including Pocket Outlook, Pocket Internet Explorer, Windows Media Player, and MSN messenger.What's more, the unit's software is designed to sync seamlessly with email, contacts and calendar information on your PC. When coupled with a AT&T data plan, the MPx200 is a powerful companion.

Design
The MPx200 follows the traditional clamshell form factor, although unlike many clamshell designs, it has an internal antenna. The large, 176 x 220 screen with 65,000 colors dominates inside of the cover. A smaller black and white LCD screen, which displays incoming calls, current time, battery life, signal strength and other information is located on the outside of the cover. A five-way selection button allows you to navigate and control the Windows Mobile interface and there is also a jog dial on the left side of the device for easy access to basic controls. In addition to a headset jack, an SD/MMC memory expansion card slot is housed on the right side of the unit. It allows for up to a gigabyte of additional memory capacity. The power key and infrared port are housed on the left side of the unit, while a universal charger/USB data port is present on the bottom.

Calling Features
The MPx200 has all the latest calling features folks have come to expect. The built-in speakerphone makes it easy to talk without having the phone to your ear. Vibrate modes and custom polyphonic ringtones can also be set to your preferences so you know who is calling without having to look at the LCD. The included Pocket Outlook software features a contacts list that is cleverly integrated with the phone's dialing functions.

Messaging, Internet and Tools
The MPx200 is designed as a complete solution for people who want to bring their office with them. The unit comes packed with pocket versions of Outlook, Internet Explorer and MSN Messenger. In addition to keeping track of contacts, Pocket Outlook features integrated calendar and email functions. Microsoft's ActiveSync software keeps the device synced with all of your PC's Outlook information (via USB or IR connection). Users who want Internet connectivity on the road with their laptop or PDA can select an AT&T Mobile Internet package and tap the MPx200's wireless modem capabilities.

You can use the MPx200's built in Internet Explorer browser for AT&T mMode downloads and mobile web browsing. AT&T's mMode service lets you receive and send emails, read news headlines, get sports scores, download games and ringtones, and more. Traditional text messaging, as well as picture and sound messaging are also supported by the phone. T9 text entry, which is a technology that makes it easier for people to enter words and text on handsets, is built into the unit-- a plus for mobile email and text messaging users.

A number of handy software tools are bundled with the MPx200 including a voice memo recorder, a calculator, a to-do list, and an alarm clock.

Imaging and Entertainment
The inclusion of Windows Media on the MPx200 means that you can use the handset as an MP3 player. The amount of music you can store is only limited by the unit's memory (up to 1 GB using the expansion card slot), and the included stereo headset is designed for music listening. For gamers, the phone supports Java-based and Windows Mobile game downloads.

Vital Statistics
The Motorola MPx200 weighs 4.16 ounces and measures 3.50 x 1.88 x 1.06 inches. Its lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 4.25 hours of digital talk time, and up to 104 hours of digital standby time. It runs on the 1800/1900 MHz GSM/GPRS frequencies. The phone comes with a one year limited warranty.

What's in the Box
Motorola MPx200 handset, lithium-ion battery, desktop charger, mini-USB data cable, stereo headset, user's manual. ... Read more

Features

• The Motorola MPx200 Smartphone does it all by combining all the functionality you need into a single, pocket-size package
• Windows Mobile software brings the familiar Windows experience to the palm of your hand
• You can synchronize everything with your desktop PC -- automatically -- with a USB connection, or over the air
• Functionality allows you to download music, games, video clips, and ring tones
• Watch videos, news clips, and film trailers anywhere you go

Reviews (186)

...and it's a flip phone.
I have owned many phones throughout all of the years that I have been dealing with cellular networks. However, I can definitely say that the Motorola MPx200 is one of originality, intelligence, and productivity. The ONLY folder fold phone that actually has a working version of Windows Mobile on it is definitely nothing short of genius and engineering expertise. I can positively say that this is one of the best and most useful phones available now.

Before anything about the inner workings of the phone can be reviewed, the first thing that is best to review is the one selling point that all buyers will look at first: it's immense beauty. Buffered hardened plastic with a neo-modern blue trimming and a perfectly-sized exterior LCD screen make the perfect combination for beauty at its zenith. There have been many beautiful clamshell/folder fold phones produced that can be considered BEAUTIFUL (RAZR, 8390, etc.), however for a one-of-a-kind phone like this one, it's exterior should not be overlooked.

When one opens the phone (with a satisfying click sound accompanying that), one is welcomed by the casual HelloMoto flower design that is on most Motorola phones now. However, what one wouldn't expect is the Windows Mobile boot screen to show up. After the system has loaded, one is presented with a clean-cut interface that is screaming mobile productivity. The possibilities are endless with the included Windows Mobile OS (which, by the way, can be upgraded to Windows Mobile 2003 if you search hard enough). It can synchronize with Outlook seamlessly. It can send SMS, MMS (in Europe or Asia), and regular e-mail. It can even access HTML web sites with its Pocket Internet Explorer (with much ease, if I may add). It can play all types of video and music files (with the right software), and it can obtain streaming media.

However, what makes its productivity even better is its compatibility. No special bells or whistles are needed for this phone to work. It charges and connects using a Mini-USB cable, which is included in the package (or it can be bought for about 20 dollars). The headset is a regular 2.5mm mono/stereo jack, however a converter can be used for regular headphones, which would be a good idea for MP3s. The storage interface is Secure Digital or MMC, which is relatively cheap and expansive (up to 1 GB). The downside to this is that it does not support Secure Digital with Input and Output functions (SDIO), so buying a bluetooth or GPS card is out of the question (that is what the MPx220 is for). It can, oddly enough, support an SD camera, which from what I heard takes good pictures. Gone are the days of searching long and hard for parts to a phone that may or may not be used for very long. This phones makes upgradeabilty easy and worry-free; exactly what a professional would need on the go.

As I mentioned earlier, there are downsides to this phone, some of which are critical. Unfortunately, most of the bad qualities of the phone are found in its performance. Since it is a small phone, it uses a Texas Instruments OMAP 714 processor, which clocks in at 132 MHz, which is not exactly speed-crazy. That is blatantly evident in the Windows Mobile 2003 version for this phone. It does compensate for this by providing an abudance of RAM: 32 MB of RAM and 32 MB of ROM, which is plentiful, that is if you do not consider that the OS uses about 12 MB of that ROM. USB connectivity is great for charging, but sub-optimal for file transfers. While it definitely wins at not needing special software like most mobiles and uses ActiveSync 3, transferring files through USB are unbearingly slow because ActiveSync uses a large amount of overhead for the transfer, thus treating it as a true serial connection. Don't expect to transfer albums of MP3s in fire speed with the MPx200.

Another big loss for the phone is its network support. Unfortunately, Motorola decided to make this phone a truly digital phone, making it only accept 1800 or 1900 MHz bands. This is terribly bad news for Cingular customers because the majority of that network uses 850 MHz. They would have better luck with the MPx220. T-Mobile customers, however, will reap the benefits of the phone's capability, as it has great signal EVERYWHERE and the call quality is above average, if not outstanding. People on the other line can hear me as clear, if not clearer, than I can hear them. The speakerphone on this mobile is comparable to some of the Nextels, which is truly outstanding (minus their terrible codec). The way it handles SIM contacts is flawless (unless you are working with T-Mobile; it can be picky on that), but the phone contacts are very detailed and elaborative. They are set just like Outlooks, so that does not require any explanation.

However, how useful is all of that when the battery is not as powerful as the OS can handle?

The MPx200's biggest drawback is its hit-and-miss battery life. There are many things that can be done to increase the life span, however its initial power is very very VERY low. I would expect, at most, 2 days standby and maybe 2 or 3 hours of talk time. Not much different than your i95cl (terrible phone, by the way). Just remember that that is just under Windows Smartphone 2002. Windows Mobile 2003 consumes even MORE power, so expect 1 day of standby and 1.5 to 2 hours of talking. To me, the features outweighed this, however, it depends from person to person.

The final aspect of this phone that I will touch is what the phone is missing. For those that are looking for integrated cameras, this phone does not have one, however it does have SD options available, so that may be something willing to consider. The phone is also missing Bluetooth, so anyone that wants those cutting edge BT headsets are out of luck here; it does have Infrared, however, which works great. Finally, the phone is missing EDGE and 3G (UMTS), so if video conferencing and/or super fast speed internet are a concern for you, I would look elsewhere. Just keep in mind that this phone has HTML support; many of those EDGE phones may not (except other Smartphones, of course).

In conclusion, if you are looking for an entry-level smartphone, or just a cool-looking smartphone that does not look like a slab of rock, then the MPx200 is the choice of all choices. I can honestly tell you that one you deal with a Windows Mobile, or any PDA-OS based phone, you will NEVER want to go back to just regular phone firmware AGAIN. It's just a shame that they lost on the MPx220 and the MPx. Those definitely had a future.

Run, don't walk, run from this phone
A phone with so much potential is actually a nightmare.Unbelievably poor reception (all along a major California highway), lost calls and generally poor/eratic interface performance.Outlooks synch is a huge upside, but at what cost?I would call ATT for support, but everytime I try on my drive home I either get dropped or stay on hold so long I reach my destination before getting an answer.Save yourself the frustration...

mpx 200 - sw upgrade
Hi all, I am also happy with this smartphone. It has everything I need and DOESN'T have a camera!!
What I do need is to upgrade system to Windows Mobile 2003. Anybody can help me how to do? ... Read more

Asin: B0000DIXEV
Subjects:  1. Flip Fold   

Yes - Live in Philadelphia
by Image Entertainment
Average Customer Review:
DVD (16 February, 1999)
list price: $19.99
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Editorial Review

Recorded on videotape at the Philadelphia Spectrum on June 21, 1979,this truncated Yes concert (running a mere 51 minutes, or roughly half the concert's actual length) finds the band during the summer leg of their "In the Round" tour, which was the last to feature the band's "classic" lineup of vocalist Jon Anderson, guitar wizard Steve Howe, bassist Chris Squire, drummer Alan White, and keyboardist Rick Wakeman. This is a valuable recording for Yes fans (yours truly saw the Seattle concert of this tour just a month before this Philly gig), but the image quality is definitely sub-standard and the sound mix is barely a notch above awful. Camera access was obviously limited, so the visuals grow rather tedious by the time the DVD reaches the fourth-track performance of "Starship Trooper," and one can only wonder why Alan White's synthesized drum solo was included at the expense of another full-length song. Fortunately this was a good night for the band, and as usual Steve Howe provides an amazing performance on his array of Gibson and Fender guitars. Of course, it all winds up with a closing performance of "Roundabout," and anyone who witnessed the '79 tour will be glad that this DVD--regardless of its marginal quality--was made available. All others may wish to stick to the higher fidelity of Yes's great music on CD. --Jeff Shannon ... Read more

Features

• Color

Reviews (41)

Yes in Philly
Two stars for the few parts of the show where the crowd noise does not drown out the music.Those parts are good for fans who want an archive of Yes in their prime.

With modern audio technology, even the worst recording could probably have been remixed better than this DVD.Why the engineer/producer chose to mix the audience louder than the band throughout over half the show is a complete mystery.If you think the crowd is important to the excitement, make them loud ONLY when appropriate (between songs, maybe a few other short places).Also, engineers seem to think that almost 100% of a concert film's sound should be shoved into the center channel, which destroys any stereophonic interest the recording may have.On my system, that's how this sounded.Also, there seemed to be no bass sent to the LFE channel.Why bother with having a 5.1 ac3 channel, then?

I expected poor video for a 1979 concert, so wasn't disappointed there--you can still tell what the band members looked like.In spite of the horrible sound, fans might still want this for the second half of Starship, Siberian K., and Good People, where the crowd noise is more absent.Also, on my system, I was much happier with the sound when I boosted the bass by 100%, AND, more importantly, disabled the center channel so the center channel was sent to the fronts.

I would be surprised if this was recorded on so few tracks that the crowd noise could not be separated from the music.But if it was not, then this is one recording where I would vote to go ahead and mess with the recording using digital techniques to diminish the background crowd noise--it would have been worth a try, at least....though purists think doing so is a sin.

Based on other commenters here, I am hopeful that the QPR DVD will turn out as a nicer surprise--Relayer was right after/during their most ambitious, complex, inventive period, especially the War & Peace epic.

Not bad and in some ways very good
Ok - I have no idea how this was filmed, but I'd say it wasn't a bootleg OR it was several people working together as there are what seems to be atleast two cameras. Anyway, whatever, it's here so let's talk about what it is.

It's Yes, live, well before they settled into the "Let's Play the Same 10 songs exactly the way we've played them for years" groove......

I mean, how cool is it to see Rick Wakeman (in a pair of hot leather pants? whoa!) out jammin' with the band members on a portable synth? I mean, it sounds terrible now, but having been to concerts during the late 70s early 80s where they did that, it was the coolest thing I'd ever seen, and the crowd there apparently thought the same thing from the their reaction.

And the songs are different! You can hear the band playing the songs more - it was kinda cool watching Rick do weird little keyboard fills during Roundabout that I've never heard before.

I saw yes twice (once at this venue and once in 1976 in RFK stadium NEXT to this venue) in the 70s and they were GREAT shows, I still remember them! And they didn't sound the same for any of the shows - same basic structure of the songs but they jammed more, it was cool! I've seen various versions of yes many times since then but it's always the same songs and about the same setlist they've been playing for the last 20 years and it's good, really, but on this DVD, while they're playing the same songs, they're much FRESHER with the material and it sure looks/sounds like they're having a blast!

BTW, skip the "voice over" thing, some bored english guy talking about the history of yes - pish, just skip it.

Anyway, it's a cool DVD, it's not a GREAT DVD - I dunno if there is one, some of the other reviewers had ideas - I don't typically buy concert DVDs as you haveta WATCH them ;).

what is cool about this is this is Yes in what's probably their best lineup when they're still fresh and groovin' playing some of their alist material, and even tho it's not technically up to the current standards it's still good and it's still Yes at the top.

So take it for what it's worth!

BAN THIS DVD ...SIGHT TORTURE...BURN THE RECORD COMPANY
Undoubtedly the worst concert DVD ever made, even if someone gives this DVD as a gift you should punch that person in the face...after watching this DVD I felt like burning down the company that made this DVD . If you want to play a practical joke on someone then might as well give this DVD to him as a gift. Save the money you would spend on this DVD and buy yourself a subway sandwich , it would do you good. If you plan to buy this DVD even after reading what I have written, then be prepared to kick yourself on the ass after you do so. ... Read more

Asin: 6305269076
Subjects:  1. Music Video - Pop/Rock   

Yes: YesYears
by Wea International
Average Customer Review:
DVD (18 March, 2003)
list price: $37.49 -- our price: $33.74
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Features

• Import

Reviews (6)

A Terrific Account of a Band with a Unique Concept
To my ears, there are a handful of English bands who are true pioneers in their stylistic pursuits. The Beatles, Yes, ELP, King Crimson, Led Zeppelin, Genesis, The Police and Dire Straits (sorry if I omitted one of your favorites...this is, after all, my opinion) all have musical and artistic refinement that seems to be lacking in many musical aggregations on EITHER side of the Atlantic. Quite often bands will disintegrate at the pinnacle of their success, either because of artistic restlessness, or, loss of a key member. Yes encountered both of these unbinding threats and, through recruitment of what turned out to be only temporary replacements (Bill Bruford is the exception here), managed to survive and mature. In fact, portions of this documentary were filmed during a Yes "Union" tour in which ALL former members of the band participated (with the exception of original guitarist, Tony Banks). Every member has recorded solo albums but the musical vision of the band seems to hold the strongest attraction to those involved. There have been some complaints voiced by other reviewers about the lack of actual performance footage or bonus booklets in this DVD. I, for one, didn't have to have any frills to appreciate the intent of the filmmakers. Nor do I feel shortchanged because the songs were incomplete. In my opinion this should not be regarded as a performance DVD. It is a documented historical account of one of England's finest, most artistic and long-lasting bands.

This Is The One!
Not the tedious YesSpeak. This is a very thorough review of the years prior to 1991. Ironic in light of what has come after it. To hear Rick inferring that maybe the Union line-up could continue into the 21st century is quite touching in a way, considering the number of times he himself has come and gone in that time. I don't have a problem with the fact that there are no complete songs here... that's not the purpose of this. It does beg the question, is there any more of this archival footage? Sad that whoever was waving a camera about during the Close To The Edge sessions didn't have the sound recording switched on.

Best Yes Documentary
It was produced in 1991, yes I know, but Atlantic records produced it correctly and professionally.Interviews are excellent.Archival footage is the best I've seen.Bill Bruford is also on here.This is the documentary for which others are judged.This documentary coincided with the YesYears Boxed CD Set and Around the World in 80 dates world tour.Many shots from that tour are on here with a snippit of all 8 members of that tour performing Awaken.It was quite breathtaking.This documentary puts the newest DVD, "YesSpeak" to shame due to poor editing and pruducing and choice of Roger Daultry as the narrator.YesYears was produced correctly and with the proper funding by ATLANTIC records at the time.I highly recommend it.
Dave Carlin, Philly ... Read more

Asin: B00007KFN0
Sales Rank: 19064
Subjects:  1. Pop    2. Rock   

Anderson, Bruford, Wakeman & Howe: An Evening of Yes Music Plus
by Image Entertainment
Average Customer Review:
DVD (21 July, 1998)
list price: $34.99
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Features

• Color

Reviews (26)

at 249.90 ??????
249.90 $ !!!! Somebody should should tell the seller to loosen his collar to allow the blood to flow to his brain. It's just a DVD for heaven's sake

Finest YES live show available
I also had this on VHS a decade or so ago and loved it so much the tape eventually wore out.I was devastated.It was my first chance to see the ABWH stuff live and although I love the album, seeing the creation of such complex music happen spontaneously in the moment was truly awe inspiring.No chance for overdubs, do-overs, or (God forbid) lip-synching.No second chances.No safety net.I don't think any other band could pull such a feat off so flawlessly or majestically.Themes, Order, Jon's medley, Birthright, Close, Steve's solo, Rick's solo...I sure wish I could buy it on DVD (or even VHS if I had to).I have the CD, but seeing it live gives an entirely deeper appreciation of the magnitude and precision of the event.The compositions are so complex and played so cleanly that it's always astounding to me that ANY group of musicians (magicians?) can manage to stay in tune, in time and in synch with each other in the midst of all that chaotically disguised structure and musical architecture.
It seems to be the general consensus of anyone who cares to share their opinion that this is one of (if not the) best live performances ever captured of this band (maybe any band) - in any era.I wonder why the mega-corporations that churn these DVDs out don't recognize this and give us what we all so desperately want?They deluge the market with drive-by artists that no one will remember or respect five years from now.Most are hard to respect now as their images and public personas are molded and shaped by high level executives who spend millions of dollars on target demographic studies to find out "what the kids want" and then mold their Britanys and Chingys to fit them. They also regurgitate new "live" videos of many of the same tired old bands that had one or two big hits back when, but have been stuck in the same rut, playing the same set lists and song renditions for decades without ever changing a note or trying out a new chord progression or growing musically in any other direction, but they won't recognize a band that has constantly evolved for over 30 yrs. and still continues to do so.
Enough with my rant.Also, enough with "documentaries" like Yesspeak (no disrespect), but give us some more live epic uncut footage (or spontaneous magic, if you prefer).PLEASE!Look at what Zeppelin did w/ their new double DVD.The audio remix sounds better than it probably did fifth row center and the re-mastered video looks cleaner, sharper, and better shot than most of the crap the music industry feeds us today.Let's recognize true genius and give it it's due.

I'll now discontinue my dramatic diatribe and hand the symbolic feather over to any of you who are still reading and have something to say.Thanks for listening.

Next...

Ken
tenacken@yahoo.com

Does Amazon really have it?
This DVD was unavailable for years and I ordered it weeks ago, but have not yet received it. Has it been listed as available by mistake???

It's a very good show, but the sound of Bruford's electric drums make me wonder if he was brain damaged in the 80s. ... Read more

Asin: 6305075387
Sales Rank: 39750
Subjects:  1. Music Video - Pop/Rock   

Yes - Special Edition EP
by Ventura Distribution
Average Customer Review:
DVD (08 April, 2003)
list price: $12.98 -- our price: $11.68
(price subject to change: see help)
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Features

• Color
• Dolby
• DTS Surround Sound

Reviews (6)

Better than other editions in the series
Most reviewers of these "low-priced" EP sets tend to complain that only a few songs from each band is included while the bulk is taken up by endless ads for other artists in the series.While this is just as true for the Yes edition, the three songs we do get here--from 1970/71 Musikladen appearances--are in good picture and sound, and "Yours Is No Disgrace" is a complete, smoking 10 minute version with the band at their rawest.The other two tracks are also well performed although as mentioned "I've Seen All Good People" is only the "All Good People" section of the song.Yes fans will definitely want to purchase this, as these performances come from a good period in the group's career and were previously hard to find in their entirety.

What makes the set even more worth getting are the bonus performances by Rick Wakeman and ELP, both of which are good and continue the prog-rock theme of the EP.The endless ads are also of interesting prog/classic rock acts, although the viewer will most likely only want to see these once.Perhaps these "low-priced" EP sets would be more popular if they were actually lower priced--more in the $7-8 range than $12.

Classic Yes is the Best
Although this disc has a brief running time and so-so technical quality(for truly horrible picture and sound quality check out the Yes in Philadelphia 1979 DVD), any classic Yes is better than new stuff played by the now-senior citizens Yes. The main disappointing thing about this disc is that only half of 'I've Seen All Good People' is included. 'I've Seen All Good People' is a two-part song consisting of 'Your Move' and 'All Good People.' This disc includes only the second half.

For Hardcore YES Fans Only...!
I just picked up the DVD featuring Yes' appearances on musikladen, entitled "Special Editions EP."

I would recommend buying this only if you're a hard-core YES fan and you can get it cheap. There's less than 20 minutes of YES stuff on there.

Inexplicably, only half of the song "All Good People" appears on the DVD. The video quality is okay - not bad, but not great either. The psychedelic visual effects get annoying after a while as well.

Also, while it is remastered in DTS sound, it's not the best DTS I've heard. Fortunately, it was only $10 at Best Buy. It does, however, have video previews of other DVDs in this series and bonus videos by Rick Wakeman (excerpt from Center of the Earth) and ELP, among others. ... Read more

Asin: B00008MTXS
Sales Rank: 38004
Subjects:  1. Music Video - Pop/Rock   

Yes: Greatest Video Hits
by Wea International
Average Customer Review:
DVD (11 February, 2003)
list price: $43.99 -- our price: $39.59
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Features

• Import

Reviews (1)

Don't say "NO" to YES!
Yes' videos from the 80's are now on DVD. Watch classic videos like "Owner of a Lonely Heart", "Changes", "Hold On" & "Leave It". Includes interviews with the band. BEST VIDEO: "Leave It" ... Read more

Asin: B00007KFN1
Sales Rank: 24379
Subjects:  1. Pop    2. Rock   

Yes: Live - 1975 at Q.P.R. Vol 1
by Import [Generic]
Average Customer Review:
DVD (10 April, 2001)
list price: $46.49
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Features

• Import

Reviews (4)

A typical 1970s stadium concert
I agree with the other reviewers that the sound on the first part of this concert is terrible. I first saw this Yes concert on the original 12 inch Japanese Laser Discs available back in the 1980s and the sound was bad on those as well, so I doubt that it is a problem with this DVD version. What it does sound like is, unfortunately, a typical 1970s stadium concert. I attended many such events in the 70s and it was not unusual for the sound in the first part of the show to be imperfect. If you were lucky, the sound crew would eventually get the mix and any technical problems under control before too much of the show had gone by. Modern concert audiences are used to super high tech stage lighting and razor sharp sound mixes (although often too loud) but you have to remember that in 1975 stadium size concerts were in their infancy, as were the sound and lighting needed to present them. Before Woodstock and the rock super star explosion of the early 1970s, most rock concerts were performed in small theaters or concert halls. But in 1975 stadium shows were still an imperfect science. Yes was actually one of the real ground-breakers in pushing the limits of stage shows and better sound (if you saw them with their round stage you know what I mean!) All in all the QPR concert video is a great buy for true Yes fans. If you can put up with the spotty sound in the first half, the second half sound is much better, and the performances are pretty great all of the way through..."Ritual" is really amazing.

How come ?
When I got into the DVD store and came across this DVD here in Brazil 2 years ago, I couldn't believe my eyes. Not to mention the classical and my most beloved songs on that DVD. Here, I purchased the DVD imported from Japan which is much more expensive than if you purchase it from the U.S. But I thought, "No problem, it's YES playing wonderful songs".I would even have the pleasure to see Patrick Moraz (who has once played with a Brazilian singer called Lobão if you don't know it) playing. I really did not care about the price. To me it was priceless. My views totally changed when I got home and started to listen to Sond Chaser. That IS really a rip-off. We can tell that YES is full of fire. But the sound from the DVD was awful. I got so frustrated. I understand the group is not to blame. But what happened during the sound mixing ? It was one of the greatest frustrations in my life. Vol. 2 people say is much better. But the songs in Vol. 2 are found on other DVDs. On this Vol 1. I get really sad to see Howe playing a hell of a guitar and no sound can be heard most of the time. I mean, Jon Anderson can be heard most of the time, but the musical instruments of the other ones take turns. So long.

Shoot the sound man!
This was sooooooo disappointing!! The sound crew succeeded in converting the first half (Vol. 1) of this excellent concert into one of the worst recordings of all time. I can't remember hearing a more incompetent professional sound mix. Ironic then that the band opened with Sound Chaser. The vision is excellent and Patrick Moraz on keyboards is inspirational. But the sound mix stinks ... I mean REALLY stinks. The bass and drums are very low, the lead vocal drops in and out, and in To Be Over, Jon Anderson's rhythm guitar painfully overpowers the whole band while Steve Howe's guitar is virtually inaudible. On Gates of Delirium the wonderful keyboard counterpoint to the slide guitar on Soon the Light is completely lost in the mix. The band must have been furious afterwards when they heard what the sound crew had come up with ... I would have been. Any other band,Vol. 1 wouldn't be worth selling at a car boot sale. But it's Yes and if you're a Yes fan it's worth getting. If you're not, skip this and just buy Vol. 2 of this two part set - the sound on that one is great! ... Read more

Asin: B00005Y7NP
Sales Rank: 35845
Subjects:  1. Pop    2. Rock   

House of Yes - Live From House of Blues
by Uni/Beyond
Average Customer Review:
DVD (11 July, 2000)
list price: $24.98
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Editorial Review

Too often dismissed as dinosaurs of the progressive-rock movement of the1970s, Yes aimed to revive their former glory with their 1999 album, The Ladder. Veteran producerBruce Fairbairn specifically urged the band to return to the sound that made itfamous--poetic lyrics, thickly layered fusion of guitar, bass, keyboards, andsophisticated melodic structures. Whether Yes achieved its goal is subject todebate, but die-hard Yes-philes will surely agree this is the finest videopresentation of this enduring band and its music. The Dolby Digital 5.1-channelaudio is exquisitely distinct, showcasing the seasoned musicianship of guitaristSteve Howe, bassist Chris Squire, drummer Alan White, and next generation Yesmembers Igor Khoroshev (replacing Rick Wakeman on keyboards) and Billy Sherwood(who later left the band) on guitar.

After 30 years as Yes frontman and vocalist, Jon Anderson leads in fine form.His mellow enthusiasm is genuine, and this 15-song set (recorded at the LasVegas House of Blues club) catches the band on a very good night. Squire is aplayful match to Howe's reliable precision, and the best of the new songs(particularly "Homeworld" [The Ladder]) are almost as good as theclassics. And while the Bob Marley tribute song "The Messenger" is bestforgotten, few could deny that Yes has indeed retained its vitality after allthese years. In addition to interviews with all the band members (except White),impressive extra features on the DVD include a Dolby 5.1 version of the"Homeworld" album track, accompanied by computer-animated excerpts from the"Homeworld" CD-ROM game, and an HTML version of the Yesworld Web site. Aconspicuous effort to attract a new generation of cyber-savvy fans? Perhaps, butif this terrific DVD is any indication, Yes needn't worry about passing intoobscurity. --Jeff Shannon ... Read more

Features

• Color
• Dolby

Reviews (69)

Another Defective - I'm Re-Buying!
I saw this show the night before this taping when they played Phoenix's now-closed Union Hall.It truly was (and is) the best concert I have ever seen in my life, and I still get chills thinking about it.It was eerie when Jon Anderson played the little harp and coincidentally was illuminated in shadow on an adjacent wall like an angel - I wonder whether it was planned that way, but doubt it.

Like others, sadly, I bought this DVD when it first came out, and was disappointed that it stopped playing after just a few tries; what the heck is going on with these?It almost seems like the precursor of the limited time use discs you can get at stores where they are only good for a couple of days, as the disc surface reacts with air or something to make it unusable after a while.I now have DVD X-Copy, and will make a "back-up" copy as soon as I open the package on the new disc.

When I first got this DVD, I was initially just flat blown away by the quality of both the audio and the video, and then amazed that this was the exact same show I had seen in Phoenix - set list, order, timing, comments to the crowd, etc.I came to realize that the show I saw was the day (or two) before this taping and was the tune-up for the House of Blues show.

Buy this disc, as others have said, it may change your life.Make a back up copy if possible.That way you can do more than look at the box in the years to come!

A Defective Gem
A great DVD--A+....until it stops working! When is someone going to fix this and stop selling a defective product?

Saw this Live!
Since I loved this DVD so much I repeatedly loaned it out toanyone who was curious. You always want to share YES. Well, the last time, it didn't come home. So now I'm buying a replacement. Why?Exceptional musicians give outstanding performances in this DVD. The feelings that were stirred in me at the actual concert come flooding back everytime I revisit through the video. Jon,Chris,Steve,Alan,Billy Sherwood and Igor.If you're a YES fan, you may think twice about a Russian keyboardist (Igor Korechev)probably just filling in, or making do as the replacement for the dream maker Wakeman.Well, he does much more than fill in.He's perfection, and since he grew up a fan of the band you can tell this is his chance to be part of the dream.The entire show is a masterpiece. In addition to the classic songs are a couple of 80's pieces(in which Sherwood shines as well), all done masterfully. But without hesitation I can say the new selections from the then current (1999)release "The Ladder" could easily have come from the 70's era.They wrote the songs for Ladder as a group, collaborating once again as they did in the days of yore. Beautiful! I could go on and on but I'll leave at this, buy it, really take time to listen and it could change your life. A fantastic voyage for the eyes, ears and heart. Remember,LIFE IS SHORT....MAKE FUN OF IT! ... Read more

Asin: 6305910049
Subjects:  1. Music Video - Pop/Rock   

Yes - Yessongs
by Image Entertainment
Average Customer Review:
DVD (21 July, 1998)
list price: $29.99 -- our price: $26.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

Yes was on tour to promote the recent release of Close to the Edge when this energetic performance was captured on 16-millimeter film in London's Rainbow Theatre in December 1972. Although this DVD was mastered from a ragged print (with plenty of scratches evident throughout), this is actually the better of the two Yes discs available (the other--Live in Philadelphia--has an even murkier transfer from videotape), with marginally better sound quality and a 75-minute performance that finds the band at the height of their "early years" popularity. The lineup is the same as that of the 1979 performance in Philadelphia (Jon Anderson, Steve Howe, Chris Squire, Alan White, Rick Wakeman), but this concert is by a much younger, much more ambitious band that was still forging its formidable prog-rock identity. As a result this is the more valuable of the two Yes performances on DVD--a tighter, sharper, more satisfying look at the band at the peak of their creativity. It's also worth noting that they allowed room for solo improvisations (such as Howe's playful rendition of "The Clap" and Wakeman's excerpts from "The Six Wives of Henry VIII"), but as a group they remained intimately faithful to their studio recordings. And although even die-hard fans will grumble about the film's murky quality (which DVD can do nothing to improve), camera access was adequate for this show and each member of the band is given adequate screen time to demonstrate his instrumental virtuosity--particularly Howe, whose guitar work here is nothing short of amazing. While it's unfortunate that both DVDs featuring live Yes music leave much to be desired, this disc is definitely worth owning if you've ever wanted to see the giants of '70s prog-rock at the top of their game. --Jeff Shannon ... Read more

Features

• Color
• Dolby

Reviews (39)

YES at their best
This dvd is amazing. Buy it because it is awesome. Watch one of the greatest prog rock bands play live. It's very oh so cool and awesome. Musically, they are one of the most advanced bands out their and to hear how they sound live....there is no difference. It's flawless.

The Music is STELLAR, but....
If you're a fan of the music or the album, the DVD is worthwhile.
Unfortunately, the photography and the editing look like they were done by a drunken high school student.
When Steve Howe is flying through Yours is No Disgrace, we get to see Chris Squire's boots.Also featured are several close-ups of Rick Wakeman's sequins.Not to mention the overdone, smeared out effects which produce spiffy colours and little else.
Hard to tell that Alan White was part of the band from the movie.
One can only hope (pray, actually) that the original film is in a locker somewhere, waiting to be re-edited by someone who understands the usefulness of split-screen when presenting a band of virtuosos.
Mr. Howe???Please protect your legacy.Arrange for a proper edit of this wonderful concert.I'd buy it again, if I could actually watch you play.

The Essential Yes
I remember going to see this concert in the theater when I was merely 12 years old. I was so captivated by the tight orchestration that the band provided, I went to see it almost on a daily basis (summer time) while it played. From there I collected what Yes had recorded by that time (Close to the Edge, Time and a Word etc..). A very tough sell to friends at that time as they were not a "radio based" group, but Yes certainly proved that there was much more to rock than what was being portrayed on the radio which offered such limited access due to music length.

I have to say that the line-up for this concert is what I truly consider to be Yes. Rick Wakeman simply cannot be touched and the same holds true for Steve Howe and Alan White. Which on a side note, Alan did join the group while the tour was on the road and he filled in without flaw.

I had the pleasure of seeing Yes in 1979 (the round stage) and again in 1984. By far the most compelling show was the '79 show which opened with Siberian Katru and went straight into Heart of the Sunrise (same as the CD version of this tour). Granted that there is not mega effects (like say Pink Floyd's Pulse), but we have to remember that this was the early 70's.

For true Yes fans, this is the DVD to own. Trust me on this. If you like Yes, you will truly appreciate this DVD. ... Read more

Asin: 6305076995
Subjects:  1. Performing Arts - Concerts   

Yes - Keys to Ascension
by Image Entertainment
Average Customer Review:
DVD (02 January, 2001)
list price: $24.99 -- our price: $22.49
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

The music of Yes has an almost otherworldy sound that is occasionallyhard to reconcile with the sight of five very ordinary blokes standing on astage. As a result, Yes were arguably always better to listen to than watch.Keys to Ascension attempts to bridge the disparity between the band andtheir music with cutaway footage of forests and waterfalls and plenty of RogerDean artwork. Sometimes it works; more often it feels contrived, as in "Turn ofthe Century," where attention is distracted from Steve Howe's fretwork by a popvideo-style presentation of the Pygmalion story as told by the lyrics.

This is the classic Yes lineup of Jon Anderson, Steve Howe, Chris Squire, RickWakeman, and Alan White, captured in concert in California in 1996 (the sameconcerts spawned no less than two double-CD albums). In a very generous 150minutes of music making, they give what amounts to a greatest-hits tour of theclassic Yes canon from "Time and a Word" through The Yes Album,Fragile, Close to the Edge, Tales from Topographic Oceans,Going for the Once, and Tormato. For enthusiasts, it's a treat towatch Howe swapping from Martin six-string to Gibson semi-acoustic to electricmandolin to 12-string to pedal steel, sometimes all in the same song; or watchChris Squire's apparently effortless bass technique. Occasionally they driftinto Spinal Tap territory (Squire's triple neck in "Awaken"!) and overallthere's a polished politeness to proceedings that hints at a band going throughthe motions, which is hardly surprising given that the latest material heredates from 1978. --Mark Walker ... Read more

Features

• Color
• Dolby

Reviews (86)

Yes - Keys to Ascension DVD
DVD is so poorly done the music is great, but the video is awful digital effects are terrible, terrible. Hey guysthe one that add all digital effects to the this DVD if you need help to how to record a live concert watch the DVD "John Mayall & the Bluesbreakers and friends live DVD (70th Birthday Concert) ...that's the way you record live video.

For YES, a "SWAN SONG..."
The releases of Keys 1 and 2 on CD are superb. get both. I agree with Wakeman that both releases should have been seperate concepts however. I also like "That, That is" better than "Mind Drive", the two 18-plus minute studio cuts.
It is a shame the DVD is so poorly done, but since the music made up for it, I recommend it for your collection. I have a couple of complaints. Firstly, someone said Alan White is the "premiere" drummer of today. Yes just came off tour with the greatest band on the planet- Dream Theater, and DT humbly let YES take center stage in every concert fully knowing they could have blown them off the planet! But DT doesn't have NEAR the classics- nor ever will- that Yes has. That is why to DT, YES are the Gods of the genre. But Mike Portnoy makes Alan White look like he's (Alan) in kindergarden!
The other, and is so sad and heartbreaking-is that while this DVD shows YES in 1996, it is now 2005, and seeing Steve Howe (now) makes me literally tearful...he has lost his hair and some teeth, Rick looks overweight and Jon for the first time looks tired and old. Amazingly, RICK, the DRINKER of yore, STILL looks better than ever, and Alan- well he HAS to be in shape so he looks great. "Keys" is the farewell...

this one should have stayed in the vault
I have nothing against legendary bands from the 70's getting back together to make a few bucks but I wish they'd think long and hard about how it affects their legacies. Yes was one of THE legendary bands of the 70's, a remarkable live act and probably the best musicians ever to call themselves a rock band. Keys to Ascension features the same band lineup that created Yessongs(1973), considered by many to be the best live rock album ever. So why is it such a disappointment? As a lot of others have said, the animated lanscapes and Roger Dean hokum that fill your screen when you watch this DVD are really annoying and seem very dated in the 21st century. As for the music, Anderson, Wakeman, Squire, White and Howe do a better job than most 50 year old rockers of recreating their 70's classics but something's missing here and anyone who saw these guys perform in the 70's should know what it is. Even though the dazzling musicianship is still there, the incredible raw energy this band generated on stage back then is missing. It's a little too much to expect that from 50 year olds. If you're new to Yes, skip this one and buy a copy of Yessongs to hear this great band at their peak. If you're a Yes fan from the 70's, skip this one because it will make you feel your age. In either case, don't bother with Keys to Ascension. Yes doesn't deserve to be remembered like this. ... Read more

Asin: B000055XSW
Subjects:  1. Music Video - Pop/Rock   

Yes - Symphonic Live
by Red Distribution, In
Average Customer Review:
DVD (18 June, 2002)
list price: $24.98 -- our price: $22.48
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

Yes never needed a symphony to prove their sonic prowess. Even without keyboardist Rick Wakeman (replaced here by the skillful Tom Brislin), the veteran members (vocalist Jon Anderson, bassist Chris Squire, drummer Alan White, and guitarist Steve Howe) are masters of their prog-rock domain. And yet the addition of the young, photogenic European Festival Orchestra (for this Amsterdam performance in November 2001) offers a glorious expansion of the Yes sound, enhanced and fully integrated to create the Yes equivalent of Phil Spector's famous wall of sound. Three songs are included from 2001's Magnification, but it's the classics--including a spectacular, epic rendition of Relayer's "Gates of Delirium"--that make this the best of several Yes DVDs on the market. A behind-the-scenes documentary is perfunctory, and the video of "Don't Go" (from Magnification) seems redundant, but the option to view alternate visuals is welcome, and the excellent DTS mix is best enjoyed loud. --Jeff Shannon ... Read more

Features

• DTS Surround Sound
• Dolby

Reviews (123)

Yes at their best....
Yes has produced their best DVD to date...I saw this tour live when they played Clarkston, MI and this DVD captures that experience completely.It is absolutely magnificent; a dream set list ("Close to the Edge", "Ritual", "Gates of Delirium", "And You and I" all on one DVD?!!! I'm sure Yes fans never thought they'd see the day...), flawlessly performed; the sound and video both excellent.The way the concert was shot and edited was perfect, and should be a blueprint for how live concerts should be presented on DVD.The orchestra really is a treat and you can see the joy on their faces when they are performing.And of course we have the classic line-up of Anderson, Howe, White, and Squire.Even without Wakeman in the band at this time (Yes fans always miss him when he's not in the band), the orchestra makes up for his absence and give all of the songs an extra lift and new life.Bravo guys, thanks for a great show and DVD.A special thanks to the production crew, director, and editor also for knowing how to capture a great performance on video.

Yes - a must
I have just watched this and decided to write a review.I have been going to Yes concerts since the late seventies.They never disappoint and this DVD is no exception.The picture and sound quality are both excellent.If you are a Yes fan and are thinking about getting a DVD of one of their concerts, this is the one.It was recorded in 2001 in Amsterdam and has a lot of their great songs on it as well as a few new ones.There is a symphony orchestra backing them up that only adds to the sound.It is two and a half hours long and is all concert footage that is very well edited.My favorite song is "And You and I" and they do it very well here.Jon Anderson's voice is as strong as ever.My advice - buy it, put it on, turn the lights down and crank it up!You'll feel like you're there.

A really well done DVD
I'm a casual Yes fan but I have watched this DVD many times since getting it.It's better than I thought it would be and the die hard Yesfans out there certainly should get it. ... Read more

Asin: B00005YUNY
Subjects:  1. Music Video - Pop/Rock   

Yes: Live in Philadelphia 1979
by Bmg Special Products
Average Customer Review:
DVD (08 June, 2004)
list price: $16.98 -- our price: $15.28
(price subject to change: see help)
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Features

• Color

Reviews (8)

This is not a review, it's a PSA
I can't say I wasn't warned.I read all the reviews detailing the poor sound, poor picture, short length, etc. etc.And then I bought it anyway.My excuse is that I'm a lifelong proghead and at the time this was recorded in 1979, Yes was my favorite band.The classic lineup was about to fold, with Wakeman and Anderson gone by the next year's Drama tour.So this was a rare glimpse at one of the last shows of the 70's by the classic lineup of one of prog's greatest bands.And besides, performances like this are all too rare.Try finding actual 70's concerts on DVD by Genesis, King Crimson and others and suddenly this one looks more attractive.My DVD of ELP's Pictures at an Exhibition was wearing out too.

I also rationalised that there are a lot of negative reviews on this site of things from the pre-digital age harping on the sound and video, from reviewers who don't seem to understand that these things were never intended to be released on a medium that didn't even exist yet.I usually find things like the aforementioned ELP disc to be dated, for sure, but also thrillingly rare and historic, and therefore cool to have.So I usually take any deficiencies in audio in stride and live with it.

But I can't live with this.Sub-sub-bootleg sound quality.Way too short of a running time and a bad track selection to boot ("Circus of Heaven"???)Want bonus material?Dream on, fellow traveler!And to top it all off, and I swear I'm not making this up, the band was performing "in the round" on a revolving stage, and the geniuses who shot this thing used stationary cameras, so you get to stare at Chris Squire's back while Steve Howe is soloing, or Rick Wakeman's armpit while Jon Anderson is singing.That's while you're straining to make out what song they're playing through the sludge of distorted mess that makes up the sound.

Cheap make-a-buck rip offs like this show no respect to the fans, or the band.I was warned and I am sorry.I'm hoping to serve as a public service announcement here and add to the chorus.Please listen to us and don't buy this DVD.

ARCHAEOLOGICAL PIECE
Don't waste your money on this item unless you wish to SEE how the band looked at 1979 because the sound really SUCKS!!!!!
Punk and Disco were at the peek at this time so if you really want to watch YES at their highest level get YES LIVE 1975 AT Q.P.R. Vol.2. This volume has great sound and footage.

yes not YES!
It is good to see the band at their peek (1979 line-up) and to see them "In the Round" since I have the Yesshows album and have always like the pictures included. Other than these elements, there is alot of problems with this DVD; it is TOO short (only 6 songs), the sound quality is horable (has that bootleg sound so the audiance is louder than the music), and the camera work is very bad! It is a good renter DVD, but don't buy it unless you are a die-hard fan. ... Read more

Asin: B0000D9PII
Sales Rank: 51222
Subjects:  1. Music Video - Pop/Rock   

Sony DCRTRV22 MiniDV Camcorder with 2.5" LCD, Color Viewfinder & Memory Stick Capability
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $799.99
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Editorial Review

With a size that is 28 percent smaller and lighter than Sony's previous camcorders, the DCR-TRV22 does not compromise powerful optics and audio performance. The camcorder's features include a 10x optical zoom, a 1/4-inch CCD for clean imaging, a 2.5-inch LCD with touchscreen control, a color viewfinder, and an 8 MB Memory Stick for still image capture.

Step-up Value
Here's a Sony feature that adds value to this digital camcorder and differentiates it from other models in the Sony lineup.

MPEG Movie Mode: Originally found on step-up Sony Digital Still Cameras, Sony presents another camcorder first--MPEG Movie Mode for select Handycam Camcorders. Capture MPEG digital video and store it directly to your Memory Stick Media. Movie length ranges from 5 seconds to the length allowed by the capacity of your memory stick with MPEG Movie EX. Take the "Best Of" scene recorded on video tape, for example--the groom kissing the bride on the wedding day, convert it to an MPEG Movie and share it with family and friends via the Internet.

Image Stabilization
Sony's SteadyShot picture stabilization keeps your images smooth and steady without degrading picture quality. The technology uses motion sensors, which tend to be more accurate than most other systems used in the camcorder market.

Optics
The professional-quality Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar lens ensures light capture will be well-contrasted and clear. The 1/4-inch CCD sensor yields a gross 680,000 pixels and records images accurately in vibrant color and sharp resolution. The TRV22 has a robust 10x optical zoom that fits most purposes, but for extra distance the camera can reach 120x through the digital zoom. Several autoexposure modes allow for automatic operation while achieving ideal images for the situation.

More Features
You can record video in low- to no-light situations with Sony's NightShot system, which uses infrared light to capture images invisible to the human eye. With the function on, subjects up to 10 feet away can be seen in total darkness. You can also use the color slow shutter for color night shots instead of the regular green night-shot hue.

Sony's Stamina power management system and InfoLithium battery give the TRV22 a long operating time. To keep you informed of current battery life, Sony's AccuPower meter displays the number of minutes remaining right in the viewfinder.

The TRV22 features a 2.5-inch color LCD and a color viewfinder. The menu is accessed via a touchscreen display on the LCD, reducing the clutter of buttons on the camera. You can take digital stills and record small MPEG1 movies using the included 8 MB Memory Stick.

The USB streaming feature can turn the TRV22 into a video conferencing tool or a Webcam, and the standard IEEE 1394 connection can be used for digital video editing on a computer.

MiniDV Format
MiniDV is the preferred format for personal and broadcast-quality video, highly regarded for its high audio and image quality. With up to 540 lines of horizontal resolution and minimum color noise, MiniDV delivers a 20 percent clearer picture than analog camcorder formats. This is all delivered on a cassette that's 1/12th the size of a standard VHS tape. A MiniDV tape offers a digital recording time of 2 full hours--20 times the capacity of a CD.

Contents
This package includes the TRV22 camcorder, power adaptor and in-camera charger, InfoLithium rechargeable battery, 8 MB Memory Stick, wireless remote, AV cable, lens cap, shoulder strap, USB cable, two AA batteries, and USB drivers. ... Read more

Features

• NTSC
• Compact MiniDV digital camcorder
• 10x optical, 120x digital, zoom with Super SteadyShot image stabilization
• 2.5-inch touch-panel color SwivelScreen LCD display for easy access to the entire camcorder menu
• Includes 8 MB Memory Stick for still image and MPEG1 capture
• NightShot O Lux infrared system with color mode for recording in total darkness

Reviews (47)

A great camcorder
I use this camcorder mainly for making short video's and it is awsome.I really like the touchscreen becuase it gets rid of all of the buttons on the camcorder and is so much easier.Also something I haven't heard anyone say in the reviews is the record button on the side of the LCD screen as well as the normal buton by your right thumb.The button beside the LCD is really nice for if you are trying to get an angled up view of someone, or are holding the camcoder in an awkard position.The video has great quality under almost all circumstances, even if the still pictures aren't that great a camcorder is for video not pictures.

The only things I don't like are; the 10x optical zoom which is small but the digital zoom does seem to be better than other camcorders I have had, the battery doesn't last as long as many other sony camcorders but is still above averge, and it has a slightly smaller viewing angle than most camcorders, but I have a wide angle lens that can be used to compensate for that if needed.There is the quiet humming noise that others have talked about, but you can't hear it unless you have the volume turned up really loud so it shouldn't really affect your choice.

The V22 camcorder is a great buy and is perfect for if you are taking home video's, or are editing short movies.I am very happy with my purchase and recommend it to everyone.

Motor Noise!
This camera is great EXCEPT for the motor noise. The hum comes through load and clear when filming school concerts, people talking, or anything else where it is generally quite in the background. Do not buy this camera if this will bother you! I am now buying a $100 external microphone to counteract this problem.

Great Camcorder
We purchased our Sony DCR-TRV 22 about a year ago and we have used it indoors, outdoors, night time, windy mountain tops, dark caves, poolside...you name it, we've tried it.And, we've been very pleased with this camcorder.It has a fantastic zoom on it, the night shot works great, the microphone worked well even in windy conditions.No, the still shots don't have a high enough pixel to print out into pictures but, we bought this to be a camcorder, not a camera!And for e-mailing, it works just fine.
We have found that every Sony product that we've ever purchased has performed wonderfully and we've been very pleased them.I do recommend this camcorder, and I know that when it comes time to replace this one...we'll be buying another Sony! ... Read more

Asin: B000087BWL
Subjects:  1. DCR-TRV22    2. Camcorder (Camcorders)   

Sony DCRTRV33 MiniDV 1megapixel Camcorder with 2.5" LCD, Color Viewfinder & Memory Stick capabilities
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $899.99
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Editorial Review

The DCR-TRV33 is a spectacular option for those looking for great video and stills in a compact camcorder. Offering a 1.0 Megapixel CCD imager, this high quality camcorder delivers 10X Optical/120X Digital Zoom and Carl Zeiss optics for incredible picture clarity. Featuring1.0 Megapixel (Gross) Advanced HAD CCD Imager MiniDV Recording Ultra Compact Design Professional Quality Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar Lens 10X Optical/120X Precision Digital Zoom MPEG Movie EX Mode: Unlike earlier MPEG1 Movies, MPEG Movie EX will allow you to record uninterrupted to the full capacity of the Memory Stick media. For example a 128MB Memory Stick will record up to 85 minutes of non-stop MPEG1 video. USB Streaming: Stay connected with family and friends by broadcasting live video with audio, via the Internet with the USB interface.

You can even playback your favorite recorded scene stored on tape. It's like having your own web camera or video conferencing system. i.LINK(1) DV Interface (IEEE1394): A high-speed bi-directional digital video/audio communication between two compatible devices equipped with an IEEE1394 interface, including camcorders, digital VTRs, capture cards, and PCs. Progressive Shutter System: A mechanical shutter system that provides Progressive Scan performance while utilizing an interlaced scanning system, digital still images will be sharp and clear with excellent definition. InfoLithium Battery
When the action rolls, you need the power to capture it. Smarter batteries help you prepare.Sony InfoLithium Batteries communicate with your Handycam camcorder's AccuPower meter, telling you how much shooting time remains. And because they resist "memory effect," Sony InfoLithium Batteries do not prematurely reduce recording time. It's a smart way to be ready for action.

Megapixel Performance
Of all the world's consumer camcorders, Sony was the first to break the megapixel barrier. Working with high-resolution recording and high-precision Carl Zeiss or Sony custom optics, the benefits are dramatic. You'll see amazing detail on everything you shoot. Every blade of grass. Every strand of hair. The names on the back of player uniforms. And megapixel resolution is also a great benefit in Sony's Digital still camera function (Memory Mode).

Digital Still Memory Mode
Capture digital still images directly onto Memory Stick® media for easy transfer to e-mail, printing, or sharing with compatible Memory Stick devices. Digital still images can be captured while in Memory Mode, or images from the videotape can be captured onto Memory Stick media. This feature provides the Dual Function of having one camera for video and still images, and provides the user with a whole new world of imaging possibilities.

MPEG Movie Mode
Originally found on step-up Sony Digital Still Cameras, Sony presents another camcorder first -- MPEG Movie Mode for select Handycam Camcorders. Capture MPEG digital video and store it directly to your Memory Stick Media. Movie length ranges from 5 seconds to the length allowed by the capacity of your memory stick with MPEG Movie EX. Take the "Best Of" scene recorded on video tape, for example -- the groom kissing the bride on the wedding day, convert it to an MPEG Movie and share it with family and friends via the internet.

Super Nightshot 0 Lux System
Low light? No problem. Absolutely no light? No sweat! Now you can capture video even in total darkness (0 lux). Sony's NightShot system uses infrared light to capture images invisible to the human eye. You can shoot subjects like sleeping babies up to 10 feet away in total darkness.

SteadyShot Picture Stabilization
There's a world of difference between experiences that are moving and the ones that are simply shaky. To encourage the first and prevent the second, Sony invented SteadyShot picture stabilization. It smoothes and steadies your images without degrading picture quality. Sony does it with motion sensors --- a more accurate system than many other camcorders on the market.

The MiniDV Format
MiniDV, the most common type of digital camcorder, records video using the standard DV-format. It's the preferred format for broadcast-quality video, and it is also highly regarded for its high audio and still image quality. This is all delivered on a cassette that's 1/12th the size of a standard VHS tape. Tapes come in lengths of 60 and 80 minutes at standard speed (SP), with use of lower speed mode (SP) increasing time to 90 and 120 minutes while reducing resolution. ... Read more

Features

• NTSC
• Compact MiniDV digital camcorder with 1-megapixel imaging
• 10x optical, 120x digital, zoom with Super SteadyShot image stabilization
• 2.5-inch touch-panel color SwivelScreen LCD display for easy access to the entire camcorder menu
• Includes 8 MB Memory Stick for still image and MPEG1 capture
• NightShot O Lux infrared system with color mode for recording in total darkness

Reviews (45)

Pleased but disappointing
I had mine for 2 years and it did most of the things I needed very well (low light filming is acceptable but not good). I could also use it to capture VHS tapes and get them into DVD format through my PC.
Anyway, now after 2 years and probably 15 MiniDV tapes of filming (~20 hours of usage!) and the thing stopped working from one day to the next. Doesn't focus, has yellow tint, etc. I would expect more from a Sony and this was one of the better camcorders out there when I bought for $800+ bucks. Can't recommend it.

Sony needs to stand behind their products
I purchased the TRV33 camcorder for its features and ease of use - regardless of the price (which is more than others).

Now, after 14 months of use, I too have lost the ability to record and Sony wants $290.26 as a minimum to tell me what is wrong with my camara.

It sounds like from other reviews that by now, they should know what is wrong and should be recalling the camara and standing behind them.

I will not be purchasing another Sony product with their poor customer service.It is just inexcusable that they have had this reoccuring problem and are not taking care of their customers.

Camera stopped working after a year of use
It's a nice camcorder. Took plenty of pictures of my young daughter. However after 13 months of usage, the camcorder stopped recording; all I see is a fuzzy image on the screen. I can playback my recorded cassettes, but otherwise it has become useless.

Called up Sony, and Cust service is asking for $270 + shipping + tax to fix it. Ironically, they mention that nobody has faced a similar problem, but a quick search on Google will yield plenty of consumers complaining the same problem.

It has good price (expensive than similar camcorders by other manufacturers), but I would strongly recommend buying an extended warranty plan. I am looking out for another camcorder, if there's any good camcorder, please suggest it to me.

Thanks
Jignesh ... Read more

Asin: B000087BX8
Subjects:  1. Camcorder (Camcorders)   

Sledge Hammer! - Season One
by Anchor Bay Entertain
Average Customer Review:
DVD (27 July, 2004)
list price: $39.98 -- our price: $29.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

The "Magnum Farce" of Sledge Hammer aims at deserving targets and scores a bull's eye every time. Thanks to DVD, one of the funniest, most unconventional sitcoms of the 1980s has been gloriously revived, with an abundance of bonus features that fans are going to love. This is sweet revenge given the show's original ABC time-slot, buried under Miami Vice and Dallas on Friday nights, but creator-producer Alan Spencer's savvy spoof of Dirty Harry had critical praise in its favor when it premiered (with a senseless laugh track, mercifully deleted here) on September 23, 1986. Played to perfection by David Rasche and introduced with an infectious Danny Elfman theme song, Sledge is a trigger-happy male chauvinist pig (er, cop) in mismatched clothes who thinks The Deer Hunter is a comedy, sleeps with his .44 Magnum (called simply "Gun"), drives a bullet-riddled sedan with an "I ♥ Violence" bumper sticker, and somehow manages to always catch his quarry. "I'm a nihilist, not a stylist" he says (in the hilarious episode "Sledgepoo"), and that puts him at reckless odds with his lovely, karate-kicking partner Dori (played with flawless aplomb by former soap-star Anne-Marie Martin) and the vocally volcanic Capt. Trunk (Harrison Page, a slow-burn master and vital ingredient to the show's excellent casting).

Partly inspired by Get Smart!, Spencer and a host of talented writers and directors dished up consistent laughs and daring anarchy, challenging broadcast standards with topnotch spoofs of hit movies (in episodes titled "Witless," "Jagged Sledge," "The Color of Hammer," etc.) while familiar guest stars like John Vernon, Brion James, Clint Howard, Michael De Barres, and Mary Woronov raised the comedy quotient even higher. After a deliberately outrageous, go-for-broke season finale it's a miracle that the low-rated Sledge Hammer! was renewed for a second season, but Anchor Bay's DVDs do justice to the show's enduring quality, and Spencer's commentaries (on four episodes) rank among the funniest ever recorded (one of them during an earthquake, no less). All in all, this is one of the most delightful DVD surprises of 2004, with more fun to come in season 2. --Jeff Shannon ... Read more

Features

• Color

Reviews (96)

It's Good To Get Hammered
Especially by this mid-80's masterpiece about a loveable lunkhead with an oversized luger. If you like slapstick comedy, overdone like a piece of burnt bacon, then by all means this is your show.

David Rasche played Sledge Hammer like the testosterone-driven maniac that he was, back when testosterone wasn't a bad word. The dim-witted Hammer is aided by the leggy, I mean LOVELY Ann-Marie Martin who's actually the REAL brains behind the duo, much like Maxwell Smart and agent 99 in the 60's classic 'Get Smart'. And like 'Get Smart' no cop show would be complete without the long-suffering boss, played to short-tempered perfection by Harrison Page. But it's precisely Hammer's interaction with the volatile Page that makes this show so funny, as well as his relationship with Doreau, his level-headed, intelligent partner, whom he treats as a rookie (hey, Hammer's a chauvinist pig!) but who actually solves most of the crimes. And did I mention, he talks to his gun?

After watching a few episodes I realized I enjoyed this show just as much as when it first aired. It seems just as fresh as ever, never dated. So if you like over-the-top comedy in the same category as 'Police Squad', do yourself a favor by getting this little gem from the 80's, you won't regret it. Trust me, I know what I'm talking about.

A top-quality DVD release of the spoof-filled show
Sledge Hammer is obviously the type of show to generate either undying loyalty or abject animosity, depending upon your point of view.I remember the show, as a teenager in 1986-87, with great affection.However, I must admit to being highly skeptical when I saw the DVD release - would it be as fun as I remembered?My brother, equally skeptical and equally curious to know the answer, killed two birds with one stone and bought this for me as a Christmas present.

First - the good points.The performances by the 3 main cast members are very good.They inhabit three very different personality types right from show #1 and the dynamic interplay between the three characters is essential to the best scenes and episodes in the series.There is at least one scene in every episode with a sublimely funny moment.As with some other series that are now out on DVD, appreciation of the humour and skill of the actors and writers grows upon seeing the shows together (and without ads and the misplaced laugh track).One reviewer called this "the best DVD release of a TV series" - he's wrong (the Simpsons DVD's are much better), but this release is far better than the average crap that passes for "extras" on a TV-DVD.There are some very nifty extras, including TV spots, 4 hilarious commentaries by producer/creator Spenser, and a retrospective documentary.Finally, some of the biggest current TV names (e.g., producer Al Jean of "The Simpsons" and head director Tom Schlamme of "The West Wing") are involved in the series, which points to the quality and edginess of the series in general.

However....I can't help but compare the show to the short-lived "Police Squad!"A show with only 6 episodes will always look better by comparison, but those 6 episodes had more laughs than the entire 22 episode run of Sledge Hammer's first season.In fact, Sledge Hammer falls into the same trap that many other series have (most notably "Married... With Children") - that is, it often goes too far to get a single laugh, at the expense of logic and the story.Roger Ebert's dictum that true comedy grows organically from the characters and their situations is never better demonstrated than on this show.While shocking at the time, blowing up a building to take out a single sniper is not funny or shocking on repeated viewings.However, the logic employed by Hammer, Trunk, and Doreau in trying to dispose of a lit dynamite stick in a small office makes me laugh every time I see it (in fact, I laughed to myself right now writing this description!).There's just too much setup and too little payoff.Similarly, the funniest episodes are built around the interplay of the three characters, and the show loses significant momentum when centred on just one of the characters (usually Hammer himself).

Therefore, on a scale of 1 to 5, 1 being the last Police Academy film and 5 being Police Squad!, Sledge Hammer falls somewhere in the middle, so I gave it a 3.It is truly funny in places (especially when the commentary track is on!), but spends too much time trying for shock value and 1-off laughs, rather than letting the characters and situations drive the comedy.

sorry...it was a reflex..
I don't really have a whole lot to add. I just wanted to say that, the dvd is done very well, has a lot of extra. And I want to urge those interested in this set to listen to the audio commentaries, especially the one for the season ending "cliffhanger" episode for an interesting treat.

And now that I have your attention, I want to make a personal attack one of the reviewers who've posted before I did. The reviewer who claimed that the 80's over moralization, and sensitivity was of liberal doctrine. Please, that's conservatism at it's finest. The 80's was the age of Reganomics, and "Just Say No", which appeared by Nancy Reagan herself on an episode of Different Strokes, one of the shows you mentioned. Sorry..I just get a little angered when people imply a political stance when they don't even know where their "side" stands.

The show Sledge Hammer was about liberalism. (Just check out the commentary by Alan Spencer..and various jokes in the program itself) About questioning those ideas of old, and blasting them away with a bazooka. Tv these days have gotten a little too liberal however, where boundaries will soon be non-existant (a little constraint or conservatism is a good thing)..which have lead me to search for those forgot shows of old, that tried to do what others were afraid of doing..being different.

1 of 1,000,000 people found this review helpful ... Read more

Asin: B0001ZX0EW
Subjects:  1. Comedy