Canon ZR70MC MiniDV Digital Camcorder with 2.5" LCD, 22x Optical Zoom, Digital Still Mode, MMC Slot, Image Stabilization and Wide Angle Attachment
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $799.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

The advanced Canon ZR70MC MiniDV camcorder brings together all the features of the ZR65MC, from its ease of use to still photo mode and digital effects. It also adds a 22x optical zoom, 440x digital zoom, motion JPEG movie mode, Super Night mode, and an advanced accessory shoe for powering a microphone or video light.

Lens
The ZR70MC features a high-performance 1/6-inch 680,000-pixel CCD to capture high-quality video and digital photos. The zoom technology found in the ZR65MC lens is the same as Canon uses in its broadcast TV lenses. The ZR70MC is fitted with a high-performance 22x optical zoom lens, which can easily handle all your shooting needs--from wide-angle shots of all the family at the reunion to close-up sports action at full telephoto. The ZR70MC's 440x digital zoom significantly expands the telephoto magnification of the subject.

Image Stabilization
Canon's image-stabilization system corrects camera shake caused by, for example, an unsteady hand. This image-stabilization system makes for smoother and steadier video even with hand-held shots, at full telephoto, and with shots taken from a moving car.

Digital Stills and Motion JPEG
In addition to high-quality video, the ZR70MC also captures crisp XGA (1,024 x 768 pixels) digital still images. The ZR70MC stores these images via the built-in slot for Secure Digital (SD) and MultiMediaCard memory cards. You can also choose to store still images on the MiniDV tape. The camcorder records the photos for approximately 6 seconds, as well as recording the sound for your verbal notes or narration.

Designed to help you make Web videos, motion JPEG mode produces compressed AVI files that are smaller and easier to run and send by e-mail than conventional video files. They're also stored on the memory card and transferred via the USB connection. Record a 10-second clip at 320 x 240 or a 30-second clip at 160 x 120.

You can search through the recorded tape for your photos using the supplied remote control. This photo search feature allows you to search for images recorded in photo mode. Search forward or backward through the images one at a time, or jump 10 pictures backward or forward from the current position.

More Features

• With Super Night mode, the assist lamp lights up to illuminate your subject
• Print photos directly to Canon bubble jet printers
• 2.5-inch fold-out color LCD screen and 0.33-inch color viewfinder
• The My Camera function is designed to let you customize a number of features, including start-up image and sound, shutter sound, start-stop sound, and the self-timer sound
• Shoot panoramic still photos, then edit them together on your PC with the PhotoStitch software
• The full-function wireless remote control works at distances up to 16 feet
• A wide selection of faders and special effects, including sepia, black and white, wave, mosaic, and more
• For low-light situations, the VCR playback controls can be illuminated in any one of six colors: turquoise, blue, green, yellow, violet, and orange

Inputs and Outputs
The ZR70MC comes with the standard DV IEEE 1394 port (also referred to as FireWire), which provides a lossless connection to a PC or other DV machines, as well as USB connectivity for transferring still photos. Additionally, the ZR70MC features two types of analog audio and video inputs and outputs: composite and S-video. The analog audio inputs of the ZR70MC let you dub or insert editing from CDs, cassettes, microphones, or the soundtracks of other videocassettes.

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

Power, Size, and Contents
The ZR70MC comes with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack, which has an approximate battery life of 2 hours 20 minutes when using the LCD screen. The camera itself measures 4.1 by 2.3 by 5.8 inches and weighs 18 ounces. This package includes the ZR70MC camcorder, battery pack BP-512, power adapter CA-570, wireless controller WL-D79, shoulder strap, stereo video cable, wide attachment, USB cable, 8 MB Secure Digital memory card, and the DV Network Solutions and Digital Video Solutions CD-ROMs. ... Read more

Features

• NTSC
• Takes digital stills (1024 x 768) and stores them on included 8 MB Secure Digital memory card
• Connects to PCs and Macs via Firewire (IEEE1394) and USB (for photos)
• MiniDV camcorder with 22x optical zoom, 440x digital zoom, image stabilization
• 2.5-inch fold-out color LCD screen and color viewfinder
• Super Night mode for low-light filming, Motion JPEG movie mode

Reviews (38)

Canon Camcorder Class Action Litigation
Hi, my name is Steven Berk.I am an attorney in Washington, DC, who specializes in representing consumers who have purchased defective products from technology companies.I am currently working on cases of that kind against HP and JVC.I noticed your posting concerning ZR70.I have been investigating other complaints about Canon ZR, Optura, Elura, and GL series camcorders.In connection with that investigation, it would be very useful if I could interview you about your experience with the grainy CCD/mosaic noise problems.If you are interested, please email me at stevenb@cuneolaw.com or call me at 202-789-3960.Thanks for your consideration.

Piece of junk
We bought this camera about 1 and 1/2 years ago when we were expecting our first child. Initially, we were pleased with it; however, we used it mostly indoors in moderate light. As our son has gotten older, we have needed to use it in varying conditions (low light, bright outdoors light, snow lit backgrounds) and have found it to be fairly worthless. In low light, it is very grainy and sometimes will not record an image at all. In very bright light, the picture is washed out almost completely. As a result, we have missed capturing some of our son's first moments on tape because of the poor, poor quality of the images. No first snowfall, no early morning birthday surprise, no first ride on a bike, etc. We have just had to send it in for repairs to the tune of nearly $200 dollars! We are extremely disappointed considering that we have only had the camera for a relatively short period of time, have used it sparingly until now, and have taken excellent care with it. Do not recommend this camera AT ALL!

Great for enthusiastic people
Before buying this I did lot of research finally came down to canon zr70mcand sony dcr-hc30. (don't fall for other canon models like zr80-85. they lack features ) Both models are appealing for price. Sony has bigger lcd and better lowlight performance while Canon have better zoom (22x as compared to 10x of sony ) and lots and lots of features. Some people say canon is having better image stabilitySo it can afford 22x zoom w/o problem.
in zr70mc you can download video from TV/VRC or other camcorderwitout any additional accesories. So easily copy old analog tapes to this digital camcorder Or burn DVD's. Canon also provides wide angle lens (very useful ) Plus sony has only 3 months labor while canon gives 12 months labor warranty.

only tape loading in zr70 is little difficult if you use tripod.

Overall this is a good value. I tested indoor using 100w room light. Picture was little yellowish. But I got filter set from ebay for 17$ and all looks good now.
NOTE: protect lens and always use uv filters. ... Read more

Asin: B000088USX
Subjects:  1. zr-50    2. Camcorder (Camcorders)   

Canon Optura 200MC MiniDV 1.3 Megapixel Camcorder
Average Customer Review:
Electronics (30 September, 2002)
list price: $1,699.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Canon has taken the features of the highly successful Optura 100MC and expanded them on the Optura 200MC, adding digital still-photo capabilities to this MiniDV digital video camcorder. Some of the new features are video streaming with Windows XP, extended range of digital special effects and fades, and the ability to record video to a memory card. The camcorder itself has joined the growing trend of vertically oriented design, making the Optura 200MC a true handheld model.

Lens
At the heart of the Optura 200MC is a CCD image sensor containing 1.33 million pixels. The Optura 200MC incorporates a bright zoom lens that uses a special glass originally used in Canon digital still cameras. The 10x optical zoom lens (4.2-42mm) is the 35mm focal length equivalent of 48-480mm. The digital zoom, which works by electronically enhancing the optical image, has 200x capability.

More Features
For storage of digital still images, you can use either MultiMediaCard (MMC) or Secure Digital (SD) memory cards in the Optura 200MC. An 8 MB MMC comes with the Optura 200MC, which stores up to 17 fine-quality still pictures or 32 standard-quality images. You can save both video and digital still images to the Optura 200MC's tape cassette, and high-resolution still images as well as motion JPEG to the memory card.

The Optura 200MC has a built-in, pop-up flash for taking digital stills. The Optura 200MC will fire one flash (a preflash) to check the exposure, then fire a second time to make the correct exposure. The flash has four modes: auto, on, off, and red-eye reduction.

For greater imaging variety, you can switch on one of several digital effects: negative picture, art, black and white, sepia, mosaic.

Inputs and Outputs
The standard DV IEEE 1394 port (also called FireWire) is present for a lossless connection to a PC or other DV machines. The common RCA AV connections are used for direct viewing on a television or VHS dubbing. You can also plug in an external microphone via the mic jack for better quality sound.

MiniDV Format
MiniDV digital technology delivers clear, sharp video with up to 500 lines of horizontal resolution--far superior to the 240 lines of resolution offered by 8mm camcorders. You'll get minimal color noise interference for a more stable picture. You'll also get excellent sound quality, recorded in either 12-bit or 16-bit audio recording modes.

Specifications and Contents
The Optura 200MC measures 2.4 by 4.63 by 4.6 inches and weighs just under 19 ounces. This package contains the Optura 200MC camcorder, power adapter (model CA-560), battery pack (model BP-512), wireless controller, S-video cable, stereo video cable, 8 MB MMC memory card, and USB cable.

... Read more

Features

• Part camera, part camcorder--MiniDV camcorder with digital still photo capability
• 10x optical, 200x digital, zoom with Canon's optical image stabilization
• 2.5 inch color flip-out LCD and tilting viewfinder
• 1.3 megapixel CCD captures 1280 x 960 digital stills--records onto both tape or MMC/SD card
• Includes 8 MB MMC card and wireless remote control

Reviews (14)

Excellent, especially at today's price
The price you see now on Amazon and other Amazon providers is way out of whack for what this camera is available for from other sources. I considered the Optura 300 and the Elura 50, but I already had a major investment in BP-500 series batteries and chargers. I also use an Optura Pi and a Rebel Digital. Be aware that the 300 and the 50 use other model batteries that are much less available and less robust than the 500 series batteries. I am a big believer in optical stabilization but that is becoming less important nowadays due to excellent electronic circuits.

Getting to the camera, I also do not miss the accessory shoe as I bought this camera for two reasons. The battery compatibility as I mentioned and its small sized ergonomics. As other reviewers have mentioned, the rotating hand strap makes the camera comfy and very handy. My wife can throw it in a purse or I can keep it in the same bag as my digital rebel. And that's the point. Along with the Optura 300 and Elura series, this is a go virtually anywhere miniDV cam. The person that is comparing (and comparing poorly) the GL2 to this cam misses the entire point. 2 different cams for different purposes. I doubt that if you are considering a GL you are even looking at a compact cam. The GL and XL series cams are much much better than any of these.

If you want a compact camera with optical image stabilization, with typical Canon engineering, optics and quality, this would be an excellent choice. But shop around for a deal because the Optura 300 is also very good (some would say better) and the Elura 50 is a budget minded compromise if that's what you need.

Thoughts from a layman
I'm by no means an enthusiast. My wife and I got this (based on on the reviews here) for our honeymoon and it did it's job wonderfully. The instruction manual was hefty, but it was very easy to follow. The fact that it was small and compact really worked well for putting it in my carry-on for the airplane. Therefore not leaving me to worry about it getting ripped off by storing it in luggage. Also that it was both a digital camera and camcorder proved indespensable for light packing when heavy walking. We went to Istanbul and every shot we took turned out great. If the flash went off, all we had to do was gently place our finger over the top so it would not pop up. The sound quality was also very good. I have read where some had problems with motor noise coming from the machine but we never did. The only real complaint I have about this is the night vision with the camcorder portion. If you put it in the "extreme low light" mode, the video puts out a slow-motion blurry mess even moving the camera at a snails pace. Once again I'm not an expert, the fact that the blurry mess is in color may mean something to those reading who are hobbyists. However I was able to get what I wanted in moderalty dim environments and at night in the city with the normal setting just fine. Where the low light setting pulled through was in the still pictures we took and that's what I wound up using it for. I recommend getting the largest battery offered for this model. Not only does it last forever but it's great for balancing the camera for a steady shot. Get a larger memory card too. Great for beginners that leaves room for serious filmmaking. Glad we got it and recommend it.

Great DV Camera from Canon - Solved ZR Problems
I've been using this camera for almost a year. Ease of use is excellent. Quality of video much better than the Canon ZR series. I don't use it for still images, have a Sony DSC-F707, so I can't comment. Low light video performance is better than I expected.
This model has yet to eat a tape or moisture check in 10 months. I've used it skiing down the Rockies and treking through jungles.
Of course, being a male, I'm now looking at moving up to the Optura 300. ... Read more

Asin: B00006JM2X
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)   

JVC GRH-D1 High Definition MiniDV Camcorder w/10x Optical Zoom
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $3,499.99 -- our price: $3,499.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Features

• NTSC
• Info-Shoe for a variety of optional attachments such as an Auto Light, Video Flash, or Stereo Zoom Mic
• BN-V428U 2800 mAh, high-capacity, rechargeable battery pack
• Professional-quality High-Definition DV camcorder and still camera with1.18-megapixel progressive scan CCD
• 10x optical zoom lens (digital zoom to 200x) with Picture Stabilizer for shooting without blur from camera motion when zoomed
• 3.5-inch rotating color polycrystalline silicon LCD and color LCD viewfinder

Reviews (2)

Would be Good if it worked
I bought this camcorder on September 28, 2003 when it was still fairly new on the market and more expensive than it is now. By July 2004 both the LCD screen and the viewfinder just went black. No image but I was still able to record audio. I reported it to JVC. They told me I had to send it in for repair, which I did. It seems that this was a common problem. They didn't ask too many questions. The warranty had already expired so I had to pay a couple hundred dollars. Six months later, the same problem again. I called JVC again and told them the problem. The technician who attended to me suggested that I turn it off and disconnect all power for about an hour and then try again because "that usually works." Now what kind of advice is that? I need this camera to shoot footage of events. What am I supposed to do each time this happens? Turn it off for an hour and ask the event organisers to postpone their events for an hour? Anyway, even that super solution didn't work, so I called again and they said I had to send it in for repair again. So I asked, would I have to be sending this camera in to you every six months? "No," she responded but "thank you for calling JVC."
The words I would like to use to describe this camera and JVC cannot be expressed here but do not buy this camera!!! For the short period of time that it did work, it was great, but I will never buy this or any other JVC product ever again.

I thought about fixing it and then selling it used but then my conscience wouldn't let me pass this problem on to someone else. So I decided to write this review.

If you have an HDTV, you need this camcorder!!!!
This is the first camcorder I have ever used that looks good on an HDTV. No...Let me correct that.It looks great!!!

Have you ever wondered why a normal camcorder looks so bad on an HDTV?It's because an HDTV is very high resolution.When you connect a traditional camcorder (even a Mini DV), the TV sees a much smaller, comparatively low resolution picture and must scale it (digitally enlarge it) to fit the screen.It doesn't matter if you have a $400 low end cam or a $4000 high end cam...Scaling the picture on virtually any HDTV will ruin your camcorder picture.

JVC solved this on the GR-HD1 with the world's first consumer HD camcorder.Basically, it's the first consumer camcorder ever that makes a picture which correctly fits a widescreen HDTV.It records a picture with 720 x 1280 dots, compared with 480 x 720 dots for a normal camcorder.

The result?The detail & resolution is simply phennominal!The colors look great!The video is much more appealing to watch in widescreen because it more closely matches your natural field of vision.

The only thing you need to be careful of is the frame rate.This shoots 720/30P.What that means is it takes video at 30 frames per second.As a result, if the camera uses too fast of a shutter speed you may see a "jitter" in things that move on-screen.The fix is really easy:Simply take the camcorder out of the "auto" mode and lock in a 1/30th of a second shutter speed.This eliminates the vast majority of the jitter.What you are left with is a superb high resolution video with a subtle "film-like" quality.

You don't have to be Stephen Speilberg to appreciate this.This is the ideal camcorder for any type of family video.Think about the great stuff happening today that you'll want to be able to watch 10-20 years from now, and still be happy with the quality.

If you own an HDTV, no other camcorder else even comes close! ... Read more

Asin: B00008H2NG
Sales Rank: 3721
Subjects:  1. Camcorder (Camcorders)   

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 PowerShot S400 4MP Digital Camera w/ 3x Optical Zoom
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $449.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Canon's PowerShot range of cameras has always been strong, and the PowerShot 400 continues that tradition. The 4 Megapixel Canon PowerShot S400 digital camera is capable of taking still images at 2,272 x 1,704 pixels--enough for a good quality A4 print. Resolutions go down to 640 x 480 for images you might only want to look at digitally. You can also capture video at 320 x 240 and 160 x 120 pixels.

The camera is very small indeed--smaller than earlier PowerShot models, and is easily pocket sized. There is what at first might seem a bewildering array of buttons around the casing, but in fact these provide excellent one-button-press access to most of the most used features, such as the 3x optical zoom which goes up to 11x when combined with digital zoom features, the macro mode, settings for the flash and self timer. For more advanced features like changing the shutter speed, which it is great to be able to do on a digital camera; you do need to delve into the LED a little further, though.

Images are stored on CompactFlash card--the largest image can be a couple of MB in size so you'll need to think big when it comes to CF card size with this camera. The battery is removable, and a spare to carry in the pocket might be a good idea.

Canon supplies a range of desktop software for viewing, editing and making use of your digital images. As with previous PowerShot cameras, one of the tools works with the Stitch Assist mode on the camera itself in the production of panorama shots. Digital cameras get more advanced all the time, but we dare to say that the PowerShot S400 is probably the best pocket sized digital camera we've seen. --Sandra Vogel, Amazon.co.uk ... Read more

Features

• Stainless steel shell; up to 3 minutes of video with sound
• Compatible with CompactFlash Type I cards; 32 MB card included
• Powered by rechargeable lithium-ion battery (NB-1LH ); connects to PCs and Macs via USB 1.1
• 4.0 megapixel sensor captures enough detail to create photo-quality prints up to 11 x 14
• 3x optical zoom and 3.6x digital zoom (10.8x total)

Reviews (241)

Memory Card Error
I am getting the same memory card error as the other reviews.I have had the camera for about 1.5 years.I reformatted the card and the error went away, but now I am worried whenever I take pictures that the card will stop working.

Stay Away from Canon PowerShot S400
I have had this camera for about a year and a half.The first problem occurred about 6 months after purchase.The connection on the camera was no longer in good shape.The only way that I could download was to use a card reader.Next, after another couple of months, a screw on the tele-photo switch broke causing difficulty in using the tele-phone switch at all.I had to hold down the switch every time I used it.Then, it started burning out batteries.I ended up having to buy three additional batteries.One burnt out the second time charging it.Next, after about a year and a half from the time of purchase, the card error problem occurred.It destroyed several 256 cards and it was no longer working as a camera at all.For $500 plus another $300 in extra cards and batteries, the camera is completely dead.Canon has not been responsive.It is obviously a "dog" as so many customers have complained about the same problems, especially the problem with fouling the memory cards.This is a complete failure in quality control on the part of the manufacturer (Canon)and a complete failure on Canon's part to back it up.For as reputable a company as Canon, it is a complete breakdown of confidence.They should be ashame of themselves for making this, for selling this and for not backing it up.So many have lost millions of pictures.

Memory Card Error
My camera has died because of the memory card error too!I read back through the reviews and most were positive until Summer of 2004 when the memory card issues started popping up.It seems a bit suspicious when everybodies camera works so well at first and then dies immediately without warning???Seems like a Canon problem to me too.Programmed to stop functioning at 18 months after first use? ... Read more

Asin: B00008OE6I
Subjects:  1. Digital Camera (Cameras)    2. Photograph (Photography)   

Canon EOS-10D 6.3MP Digital SLR Camera (Body Only)
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $1,899.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Canon's EOS-10D 6.3-megapixel digital SLR builds on the strengths of the award-winning EOS-D60 and offers a range of improvements to both the camera's design and its feature set. It offers a seven-point wide-area autofocus system, fast 3-frames-per-second burst rate, and an ergonomic, super-tough magnesium alloy body shell.

The 6.3-million effective pixel CMOS sensor--providing up to 3,072 x 2,048 pixels--is supported by Canon's unique high-power DIGital Imaging Core (DIGIC) processor. The speed at which the DIGIC processor works has allowed Canon to extend the number of full resolution images in burst sequences to nine, at a rate of 3 frames per second. As well as improved speed, DIGIC also helps produce more accurate color rendition while reducing image noise.

The metering system, using the newest metering algorithm available and a 35-zone evaluative metering system linked to all seven focus points, offers improved exposure consistency and stability. A range covering ISO 100 to 1,600 offers high-quality images across a very broad spectrum of shooting conditions. Photographers working in particularly poor light may also take advantage of an option to extend this range to ISO 3,200.

The EOS-10D is the first digital SLR camera to feature direct printing. Linking via a USB cable, you can make prints immediately from any of Canon's range of compatible bubble jet or CPprinters--including the S830D, S530D, and CP-100--without the need to connect to a computer. Controls within the camera's own menu system allow you to choose print quantity, size, and image cropping. When using Canon's card photo printer CP-100, with the optional battery pack, prints can be made in the field away from a power supply.

Other features include:

• Automatic selection of FAT16 or FAT32 file systems, to supportlarge-capacity CompactFlash Type I or II memory cards of over 2 GB storage size (such as Microdrives).
• 1.8-inch TFT (transreflective) LCD monitor with five brightness levels and 10x zoom.
• Super Intelligent Orientation Sensor detects whether the camera is being held in the portrait or landscape orientation when an image is captured, and automatically rotates the image in the camera's LCD preview screen and on a computer when downloading using Canon's ZoomBrowser software.
• Extended battery life providing approximately 650 images without flash or 500 images with 50 percent flash.
• Ability to save an image in RAW format even when it was shot in JPEG mode.

The EOS-10D comes complete with battery pack, compact singlebattery-charging unit, USB cable, video cable, the latest Canon software and Photoshop Elements. The EOS-10D accepts the same BP-511 battery pack, and the same BG-ED3 battery grip as the EOS-D60. ... Read more

Features

• Compatible with CompactFlash Type I and II cards; no card included
• Powered by rechargeable lithium-ion battery (BP-511); connects to PCs and Macs via USB 1.1
• 6.3-megapixel CMOS image sensor for images up to 3072 x 2048 pixels
• Magnesium body; can save images simultaneously in both RAW and JPEG formats
• 3 frames per second (fps) burst rate up to 9; Adobe RGB color space; 7-area AF sensor

Reviews (63)

A Very Solid Product
The controls are a little complicated to get used to, especially the all-manual settings -- which should by definition be easy to use -- but overall this camera is very rugged and very capable.After I bought it, I took the D10 to Budapest, Hungary.I had a great view of the Danube and set my camera up for night shots.It did a brilliant job.How about this:take a digital night shot (use the largest image size possible), use a 300mm lense and blow the results up to 24x30 through Shutterfly.com. Image remained amazingly sharp. Colors were fantastic.The camera made it easy to look like a pro. The only gripe I have with this camera is that I wish it had a black and white setting like other less expensive Canon digitals, but this can be overcome with software so it's not a huge issue.The price is great, it has a magnesium body (vs. the Rebel's plastic body).You get a lot of the D1/D20/D30, without the cost.

Great Camera, one major flaw
I have had this camera for about 6 months.I love digital cameras, but my early sony'swere too slow.This camera is very very fast.The detail is incredible.I have taken thousands of photos and rarely have any that are under exposed.probably one in two hundred.This would be even less if I were more competent.

The one major short coming I have had with this camera is that it locks up.I will get the display "PA-A" and it won't go away.This is generally only displayed when I first turn the camera on and it last only a split second.Othertimes, however, this message pops up in the middle of shoots and locks up the camera.The fix is a quick removal of the battery from its contacts.I have gotten pretty fast at it, but this should never be an issue.I have heard that this is a problem with the new 20D as well.That is not very reassuring.

Excellent technology, one big disappointment
Since there are tons of rave reviews about the features of this camera, I won't bother you with the details. Instead, I will tell you about the one HUGE letdown of this camera and the likes (Rebel, 20D): the 1.6x focal length factor. This means my dear 28-105 lens is now a sorry 45-170. To recoup the loss I'd have to spend $700 on a 17-40 4.0 lens. This is a consequence of using a small CCD. Cameras like the 1D with full-size 35mm CCD sell for over $4,000. I cannot wait for that price to go down. I also cannot help to wonder whether the focal reading of the Speedlite flashes will be correct (I own a 540EZ and discovered with dismay that it doesn't work in these cameras).

I look at my A2 (still infatuated with it) and I wonder if I did the right thing. I think I will keep it around for a while, just in case... ... Read more

Asin: B00008OT2G
Subjects:  1. Digital Camera (Cameras)    2. Photograph (Photography)   

Apple Power Mac G5 Desktop M9032LL/A (Dual 2.0-GHz PowerPC G5, 512 MB RAM, 160 GB Hard Drive, DVD-R/CD-RW Drive)
Average Customer Review:
Personal Computers
list price: $2,494.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Early Adopters Pick: June 2003 The world's fastest personal computer and the first with a 64-bit processor -- which means it breaks the 4 GB barrier and can use up to 8 GB of main memory.

Hailed as the fastest personal computer ever released and featuring a truly remarkable set of technological breakthroughs, Apple's Power Mac G5 M9032LL/A is clearly designed for discriminating individuals who simply won't settle for anything less than the very best. For extreme performance and unrelenting power, this, the top of the line Power Mac G5 model, is as good as it gets.

Driven by not one but two 2 GHz Power PC G5 processors, 512 MB ultra-fast PC3200 DDR SDRAM memory per processor (expandable to a gargantuan 8 GB!), and an ATI RADEON 9600 Pro graphics card with 64 MB DDR SDRAM video memory, the Power Mac G5 M9032LL/A certainly seems impressive. But those figures only begin to tell the story. For its latest desktop, Apple teamed with IBM to redesign its leading-edge CPU architecture. Accordingly, the new Power PC G5 is the world's first 64-bit processor. With two of these 2 GB powerhouses running in tandem -- each sporting an industry-leading 1 GHz frontside bus -- the Power Mac G5 M9032LL/A delivers nearly double the throughout of a single 3 GHz Pentium 4-based machine and, according to Apple, runs standard Photoshop tests at 2.2 times the speed of a single 3 GHz Pentium.

But there's more than raw power lurking inside the futuristic anodized aluminum case. For starters, Apple has compartmentalized the unit into four independent sections to direct appropriate airflow to each key component. A total of nine fans work to keep things cool, yet all are extremely low-speed. Thusly the Power Mac G5 M9032LL/A runs three times quieter than the previous Power Mac G4 enclosure.

Apple has loaded the unit with data handling features, including a monstrous 160 GB 7200 RPM hard disk and a DVD-R/CD-RW combo drive (4X DVD write speed) through which you can archive information, play and burn audio CDs, enjoy the latest movies and record home videos. To help you transfer data to and from external peripherals such as optical drives and digital camcorders and cameras, the system also sports two high-speed FireWire 400 ports, one ultra-fast FireWire 800 port, three USB 2.0 ports and two USB 1.1 ports.

Other key amenities include a convenient Apple Pro keyboard, an Apple Pro mouse, three available high-performance PCI-X slots for future expansion, and a broad array of multimedia and Internet software. Connectivity facilities include an integrated 10/100/1000BASE-T Ethernet port, a built-in 56K modem, and AirPort Extreme wireless support (with an AirPort Extreme card). Speakers and display are available separately. ... Read more

Reviews (26)

I HAVE NO REGRETS!!!
PROS:
Amazing speed, and extremely quiet! I'm quite surprised that no one has yet given a review to this wonderful piece of equipment. I guess you don't need to. That statement about "you get what you pay for" is very true. But if you actually look at it, if I were to buy a top of the line dual AMD Opteron or Pentium Xeon system with the same basic configuration, I'd be spending about the same amount of money. And as a graphic designer, I almost went totally PC when I purchased a Pentium 2.8GHz HT (Hyper Threading - the so-called "multitasking" want a be Mac processor) for my wife. Well much to my dismay, I was using a demo of Adobe Photoshop CS to test the PCs' skills, only to find out that when I went to save a 160MBfile, that I only saved about 7 to 8 seconds of time compared to my 5 year old G4 (400MHz single processor) system. Mind you, they both had the same amount of RAM. That's when I remembered testing one of the machines at an Apple store a few months before I almost made that fatal decision to go PC. I saved a 250MB Photoshop file in about 9 seconds!!! Now, the new G5 that's out is the dual 2.5's. So that means the dual 2.0 machines are $500 less (now, $2,500.00). And if you're like me, and can take a couple of weeks to spend some dedicated time to finding a better price, you can actually save about a thousand or more buying it used. I did. I purchased a G5 dual 2.0GHz, 250MB HD, with 1.5GB of RAM and the extended Apple Care Warranty; the full three years was already included with the machine, for a total of $2,400.00. (...) I was a little scared, because I heard about some horror stories about people who got taken of there hard earn money not to get what they paid for. I even found out that the person who owned this G5 was only 115 miles away. So I picked it up myself. He even had it open so I could try it out first. (...)Then you will find out what the going rate is (and also know who the "scammers" are who are trying to take you for your money). Email as many people that seem to be reasonably priced and ask for three things that you have a right to know; 1) What there serial number is on the machine 2) Where they bought it along with the original receipt 3) Get the owners full name and then call Apple (800-275-2273), to get through to the Apple Care Dept. (from last I checked, ext. 3), verify if the G5 belongs to them and if it's still under warranty. Also, ask if there is an option to extend it to the full 3 years; you will have to pay an additional $249.00, but it's completely worth every penny. I know that I'm going off the "review" topic here, but I believe that it is just as important, because of the fact that these machines are not cheap, and they were not available to buy (because of backorder situations, even through Apple), and I know that people want to save as much as they can when purchasing this system (or one like it). But again, we're going back to the beginning of what I said; "you get what you pay for." Another thing to add about this G5, they designed this machine from the inside-out, not the other way around; like I see in some PC towers that are built. The way this system is cooled is simply incredible. I was just reading MaxiumPC's (Sept. '04) review on case towers that just came out, and still NOTHING can touch the way they built this tower. Please do yourself a favor, if you can, either go to an Apple Store, CompUSA, Best Buy to physically try out a 1.8, 2.0, 2.5GHz G5 yourself, or check out there website (www.apple.com). You'll get more information than I can give here in this review. Again, I want to let everyone know (who reads this), that if I sound bias at all, I'm not, I REALLY was about to switch over to a PC; even my close friends were shocked when I said it to them. I actually felt humbled at one point saying that statement. But I'm glad I didn't make that mistake. If you're looking for a workhorse, this is the machine for you; and I'm ONLY talking to GRAPHIC DESIGNERS, VIDEO PRODUCERS AND THE LIKE; NOT to those who play video games on these machines. If you're looking for a gaming machine, then buy a PC. You'll have more to choose from, with thousands of games and more options to making your PC work better with faster framerates by overclocking the processor and graphics card, (only if you're into that kind of stuff and that you know what you're doing - only if - you overclock your PC).
(...) If you do your homework on this, (Graphic Designers - G5 Mac and PC Gamers - OverdrivePC) in the end, it will be worth it! I hope I've been helpful and good fortune to all who read this.

CONS:
None that I know of. Except I would give it a 9 (out of 10) for ease of use, because I was very acclimated to using OS9. OSX takes a day or two of adjusting, but it is a far better operating system to use in the end.

This is a machine for professionals!
The G5 is meant to be "the professional's machine" for graphics and video.After you get past the "platform war reviews" on this list and look at the unitand what it can do, it does all it claims and more.Mac has and I hope always will dominate the digital video, audio and graphics markets.Anyone who cannot get this machine up and running out of the box in a few minutes, should probably invest in a toaster; because its obvious you were not meant to use a computer.The latest OS, Panther is sleek easy to use and pretty much runs the machine for you.Its also the only unix based OS on the market with a GUI.Which means that you can slip into terminal mode and run lines of code, while doing several other, heavy duty tasks in the background; that's background tasks that would bring any PC to its knees.By the way, Panther is the only system on the market that truly takes advantage of multi processors built into these boxes.

No matter what the semi pro's and novice users, who are loyal to PC's post, this machine simply blows any windows based/intel system out of the water.I have used every machine available for 25 + years as a film and video editor, (the toughest job for any machine) and Mac is the king of the hill for power, ease of use and reliable service..for the pro user PERIOD.Anyone who claims to work in a pro graphics shop that is PC based, really does not work in a pro shop; because there are no truly pro graphics shops that are PC based.

The price is as always a bit higher on a Mac, because you get what you pay for.If you are not a professional computer user, get a PC and you will be happy.If you are a professional that needs the fastest machines available, as well as the most reliable machines on the market, you need a Mac G5.

Video Card a Minor Problem at Best
I've been a PC user since the good old days of the soldering iron, my last mac was an old powerbook running OS 6 or 7, either way - it was a long time ago.The main thing thats been keeping me from getting a Mac was price, and I must say - it's getting a lot better.I bought the dual 2.0Ghz configuration from the apple store along with the new 20" LCD (that still hasn't shipped ~_~) and it rocks.The biggest problem people have mentioned on the various reviews is the 64mb card - if it means that much to you, go to the Apple Store on their site and configure your own system with a 9800 or an x800 or a different 9600 if you'd like.I got a 9800 personally.I don't understand how anyone can claim a PC runs faster than this, perhaps with video games but for standard use (this coming from a person to whome standard refers to compiling java) its much better. ... Read more

Asin: B0000A5R5M
Subjects:  1. Desktops (Desk Tops)    2. Desktop Computers    3. Apple    4. (Mac)    5. (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
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

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)   

The ThinkPad T40 (23734CU) is home to many unique and practical perks, including a comforting bottom-mounted shock absorption system, a nifty keyboard-illuminating ThinkLight for low-light situations, an S-Video out port, two high-speed USB 2.0 ports for fast interaction with external peripherals, and a full-size keyboard featuring IBM's user-friendly ThinkPad UltraNav multi-pointing system. Connectivity options include a low-speed 56K fax/modem, an RJ-45 Ethernet connector for high-speed Internet, email and network access, and an Intel PRO/Wireless Network Connection 802.11b. Battery life is estimated at an impressive 4.9 hours under ideal conditions. ... Read more

Features

• CD-RW/DVD-ROM Combo Drive
• Microsoft Windows XP Professional
• Intel Pentium M 1.5GHz
• 512MB PC2100 DDR SDRAM upgradeable to 2GB (2 SODIMM, 1 Available)
• 40GB 5400RPM Hard Drive

Asin: B00009V7HI
Subjects:  1. Notebooks (Note Books)    2. Notebook Computers    3. Laptops (Lap Tops)    4. IBM   

Pinnacle Studio 8.0 Video Editing with CD/DVD Authoring
Average Customer Review:
CD-ROM
list price: $99.00
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Reviews (215)

Great Editor, not great authoring
This is a great editor.Then again, you must remember to check out pinnaclesys.com to get the patches to make it updated.I had few problems with it.In the 30+ editing hours I used to make a movie, it did crash twice, but those were 30 hours of intensive use.The features that I liked best were the simple drag and drop .I give it 4 stars on the basis of an editing software.

Authoring, on the other hand, is a different story.It takes hours to encode and output to a dvd.The menus are nice, if they fit your situation(which they usually do).I needed a program with complete control over the menu.

Pros:
User friendly for average user
Transitions are easily used
Automatic shift entire assets when you drop a scene into timeline
Cheaper than version 9
Scene detection (splits movie into scenes)
Titles look good
All work retained after a crash

Cons:
It is slow detecting scenes from video
Titles are a bit difficult to arrange
Crashes
DVD burning options


My suggestion:But Pinnacle 8 instead of 9 to save some money, they are practically identical(I have both and prefer 8).Edit with PS8 and output your movie as an MPG(which takes significantly less time).Then use a program like DVD-Lab (free 30 day trial), which is made to author dvd's, to burn.

Pinnacle Studio 8: Perfect programme
Review : Marijn Bouwhuis, 14 years old, (holland)
I think it's totally ridiculous how people think of pinnacle, they are just taking the piss. It just works well and probably their computers don't function well. The people who made this reviews are very negative about pinnacle. E.g. they say that it takes a long time to open Studio 8 (Same as Pinnacle), but when I open the programme it takes about 10 seconds to open. The effects are of very good quality, and you can do a lot of combinations.It's very easy to work with Pinnacle, and maybe the people who wrote this reviews want something more professional, but I don't know what I could use in this case, I already asked many people for a better programme, but they don't knowI think the people should not blame Pinnacle when they want something which is more professional. They should just instantly buy something more professional.
Now why do I think Pinnacle is a very good quality programme.
You can upload videos straight from your camera into pinnacle, it's carefully explained and very easy to perfrom. You can also upload music and put it all into your movie.
When your movie is finished it's very easy to burn it on a dvd disk, it's even possible to do this with pinnacle.
Now I made a screenshot (with the bottom PrtScSysRq) of pinnacle studio 8. As if you can see it looks easy to work with. You can select whatever you want; upload videos, music, photo's. It's even possible to make a menu on the beginning of the movie, so that you can select which chapter you would like to see. Isn't that cool?? There is also a possibility to put titles in it, or make something in slow-motion, which is super, because when you've done something humorous and it's on tape, you can show it in slow-motion so you may even laugh louder! All this makes Pinnacle Studio 8 fun to work with.
The review of Dean A is quite funny, but I think he's not really serious. He should become a writer, maybe he's already. It's funny because he blames Pinnacle al the time; the stages he describes are really not true. He really describes it as a very slow programme, but really it isn't, I'll take up the time now how long it takes to open: One, two, three, four, five... Just five seconds!! He just needs to buy a new computer, so Pinnacle can also open in five seconds.

why is it bad?
hi , i recently used this sofware and found it to be very good.
yes it does crash but i have never lost my work as it is all there when you start it up again, this is by far the most powerful software i have seen, but you dnt have to be a professional to use it. i reccomend it highly ... Read more

Asin: B000069VAW
Sales Rank: 2054
Subjects:  1. Computer software (programs)    2. Graphics    3. Multimedia    4. Edit (Editing)    5. Image Capture Capturing    6. CD Recording (Burning, Burners)    7. Video    8. Composting    9. Effects    10. Editing   

Apple Final Cut Pro 4.1
Average Customer Review:
CD-ROM (14 June, 2003)
list price: $999.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

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)