Panasonic SDR-H18 30GB Hard Disk Drive Camcorder with 32x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom Review

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(More customer reviews)My current camcorder is over [..], and I found that I just wasn't using it much anymore.Two reasons:It was a little big to carry around, and it recorded to tape, so deleting 'bad' scenes was not practical until it got to the PC.All the new camcorders are plenty small enough to carry around.

I like the workflow of digital cameras in that you can easily delete the garbage shots after taking them.I wanted the same for a camcorder, which meant DVD or HDD was my choice, despite the possible reduction in end quality as compared to tape (HDD/DVD compress the image, tape doesn't).DVD was out for me since its capacity is very limited, and I just don't trust writing to DVD (I've had too many fail while closing the session on my PC).So it's HDD, even though I compromise image quality over tape.

I also wanted a long zoom lens.With a long zoom lens you have to sacrifice the larger CCD's, and larger CCD's allow for better image quality.Another compromise.

This left me with three final candidates in my price range: Sony DCR-SR42, JVC Everio GZMG155 and Panasonic SDR-H18.The Sony specs list 40x zoom, but the number that counts is the focal range (1.9 to 76), which actually gives you about the same true zoom as the other two (they advertise 32x).So they are equal there.

The final difference came down to price and the image stabilization.Only the Panasonic had optical image stabilization, which generally does a better job than electronic.This is especially important for these long zoom cameras.So the SDR-H18 won, and it was the least expensive also.

Considering the 'compromises' I had to make to go HDD and long zoom, I'm very happy with the image quality when played back on a standard def TV (haven't tried HD TV yet).It's at least as good as my old Digital-8 Sony image.The image stabilization is better than I expected - I had no problem holding the shot steady free handed at 32x.

BTW -No need to install the included CD.Windows XP recognized the camera and mounted it as a hard drive.Just copy the movies to your system like normal works.You may want to rename them to MPG files though, and set the widescreen flag in the file since the camera doesn't.Search for sdcopy.exe for a free simple utility to copy, rename and set the flag for you.

The only downsides I noticed so far:
Very low light feature on camera is useless as compared to Sony's IR mode.The Pana just makes the exposure time huge, which means you can only record still scenes in very low light.Not a problem for me though as I don't find the need to record in the dark much!Normal indoor light is OK, but not great.

The supplied battery won't last very long on a charge.Amazon has a battery CGA-DU21 which will 3 to 4 times as long for a very low price.Update on experience with it: I have had the chance to try the video on a 42" LCD HD TV using the S-Video connector. It's not HD for sure, but the quality was acutally pretty good. I expected it to magnify the compressions issues to the point of being distracting. Others in the room actually commented how clean the video looked (the sample was from video taped outdoors in bright light).
One additional negative to add is that you can't delete a shot until you are in playback mode. I'd like to be able to delete it as soon as I've finished shooting it from the record mode thus saving a couple steps. Overall, no regrets.

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Product Description:
It's hard to believe such a small camcorder is capable of doing such great things. Panasonic Palmcorder SDR-H18 Camcorder is perfect for extended trips with its internal 30GB hard drive that holds as much video data as up to 22 8cm 1.4GB DVDs. That's about 22 hours worth of high-quality video. The SDR-H18 offers a 32x extended range zoom capability. Panasonic's selectable Optical Image Stabilization system helps reduce blurred images that result from normal handheld movements. Stills and videos may also be recorded on SD or SDHC memory cards. A built-in USB port lets you transfer images recorded on the 30GB hard drive directly to your PC or Mac for extended video storage or editing. Shoot in 4:3 standard or 16:9 widescreen visual modes - fill your TV screens. It's a camcorder for all seasons and reasons.Optical Image Stabilizer (O.I.S.)Recording Modes -XP, SP, LPMagicPix Images for 2 Lux Minimum Illumination ShootingIris -Auto Focus/Manual (Including Gain)Still Picture Recording, 640x480, 640x360 (16 - 9)MPEG2 Recording FormatWide Mode (16 - 9 Aspect Ratio)Image Sensor (Total) -1/6 CCD (680K Pixels)Image Sensor (Effective) -4 - 3 - 340K, 16 - 9 - 460K (Moving Picture)Image Sensor (Effective) -4 - 3 - 350K, 16 - 9 - 460K (Still Picture)Lens Aperture -F1.8 (Wide)/F3.7 (Telephoto)White Balance Settings -Auto, Indoor, Outdoor, Manual Backlight CompensationDate Recording -Auto Date (in Date Code)On-Screen Display Language -English, French, SpanishBuilt-In SD SDHC Card Slot PictBridge CompatibleUnit Dimensions -2.98 W x 3.27 H x 4.76 D; Weight -0.95 lbs.Panasonic USA Warranty 1 Year Parts and 90 Days Labor

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Nikon TC-20E II (2.0x) Teleconverter AF-S for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras Review

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(More customer reviews)I use the TC-20E II with a 400mm f2.8 ED IF AF-S, and it's superb.I was concerned whether there would be a reduction in sharpness, and perhaps there is a touch (but perhaps that's also a product of shooting at 800mm and ANY camera shake being noticeable), but this 2x converter is much sharper than the TC-14E 1.4x I also own.Yes, these newer converters must be used with the newer lenses, as others have mentioned.

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Product Description:
2.0x AF Teleconverter for use with Nikon AF lenses for Nikon SLR cameras

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HP PhotoSmart 100 Portable Inkjet Printer Review

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(More customer reviews)This a great little printer if you are looking for something with limited usage (it accepts 4x6 paper only).I purchased it to compliment my desk printer.I was looking for a printer I can take with me on vacation, to weddings, family gatherings, business events, etc., and this little machine fits the bill to a "T".You just take the memory card from your digital camera, (it accepts SmartMedia, CompactFlash Type I and II, and Memory Stick cards), and plug it into the printer, and away you go.When you plug in your memory card the display panel on top of the printer indicates how many photos are on the card.You can print an index page of thumbnail size proofs of all the pictures on your memory card, then selectively print just the photos you want.Optional print sizes are 4x6, Wallet (2.5x3.25), or Thumbnail (0.7x0.9).You can choose to print a single, or multiples of the same photo. You can also choose to print a range of photos (e.g. print single or multiples of index numbers 21 through 25).What a boon for taking with you on vacation!If you fill your memorycard, you can make a print of each photo when you get back to the hotel, erase the card and start over taking new pictures. When you get home you can scan the prints into your computer, with the option of making enlargements.At special events, guests can go home with a souvenir print of the event.I am very pleased with the quality of the prints and the convenience and ease of use of the printer.You will only get borderless prints if you use the HP 4x6 Premium Photo paper with the tear off tab.Other brand 4x6 papers will print with a narrow border.The printer's compact size and weight (just under 3lbs) make it extremely portable, and I like the instant gratification of a print without having to take the time to store them in the computer first, (also a great point for those who are thinking of a digital camera, but don't have a computer).The only thing I would have liked is a double power source (i.e. rechargeable battery as well as AC), but that, of course, would increase the price.There is a padded carrying case made specifically to fit this printer.It has a front zippered pocket to hold the AC adapter, a spare ink cartridge, a box of printing paper, and a pocket to store prints and/or user's manual.Overall, I am delighted with the HP100, and plan to purchase two more to give as Christmas gifts.

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Product Description:
Forget having your digital photos printed by someone else. With the PhotoSmart 100 inkjet printer, you can print full-color 4-by-6-inch photos at up to 2,400 x 1,200 dpi on premium photo paper, or at lower resolutions (but still great-looking) on other papers.
Print directly from your digital camera with a CompactFlash, SmartMedia, or Sony Memory Stick memory card, or connect to your computer using the built-in USB port. HP photo imaging software is included. Printing is a bit slow, with a 4-by-6 photo requiring just under three minutes, but quality takes time.
The printer has a markedly compact design, with dimensions of only 8.8 by 4.3 by 4.7 inches, and it weighs less than three pounds, so you can take it with you when you're on the go. Sorry, Mac users, the HP 100 is only compatible with PCs: Windows 98, 2000 Professional, Me, XP Home, and XP Professional. The printer is backed by a one-year warranty, with the option to extend it to three years at additional cost.

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Sennheiser HD 202 Dynamic Supra-Aural Headphones Review

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(More customer reviews)I do not like small earphones that go into the ear. After a very short time I find them very uncomfortable. I also hate anything pressing on my head.
I was looking for a set of over the ear phones which were light weight, comfortable, had excellent sound fidelity, a longish cord so I can be comfortably away from my stereo, and effectively blocked outside sounds. My primary motivation for buying these phones was so that I could listen to opera and really hear the phrases. I wanted all this for under $30.00
These head phones delivered. As soon as they arrived, I tested them on a variety of music types at a variety of volumes. The phones are very comfortable and except for a bit of warming of my ears, which was rather pleasant, I barely noticed them. The cushion on the crosspiece is thick enough so that you don't really feel it.
Sound fidelity is excellent. I was actually able to hear parts of music and instruments that I had never noticed before. This was especially true with classical, opera and jazz. The balance between bass and treble was very good, although if you really like loud thumping base, you may be a bit dissappointed.
I was not able to get the volume up loud enough to notice any distortion before it was too much for me, so I can't really say that there will be no distortion if you like really loud music.
If you are looking for headphones that are a good bargain for the money and have a limited budget, these are it.

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Product Description:
These closed, dynamic, supra-aural stereo headphones are built for the demands and expectations of the DJ. They come with removable, leatherette earpads. These lightweight phones will be appreciated by someone who wears phones for long periods of time. A specially designed damping perforation ensures powerful bass response, while a lightweight diaphragm material with turbine embossing transfers low bass sounds. The ten foot Y-style cord can be connected to a belt and features a take-up system for on the move listening. The headphones come with a two year warranty.
What's in the Box
Headphones and a two year warranty.

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Nikon 14-24mm f/2.8G ED AF-S Nikkor Wide Angle Zoom Lens Review

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(More customer reviews)Nikon's new 14-24 lens is just phenomenal.The clarity is that of a prime lens.In fact, this super-wide angle zoom lens effectively replaces the equivalent prime lenses within most of its focal length (except perhaps the 24mm range); it's like owning a bag full of prime lenses that have been combined to make one superlative zoom lens.

Yes, it's that good. If you check around the web, you will see the pros falling over themselves for this lens after they test it.It's built like a tank and is precise as a Swiss watch.
Highly recommended.

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Product Description:
L1)NIKON 14-24MM F2.8G ED (2163)

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Bowens Multi-functional Transceiver Pulsar Radio Slave Trigger Twin Pack, for Cameras, Flashes and Light Meters Review

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(More customer reviews)These transceiver radio slaves are designed in England (great country)and they work perfect every shot, through concrete walls and with the build in antena it reachs with no problems the 100meters range.

Very recomended.

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Product Description:
The Bowens Transceiver Pulsar Radio Slave Trigger is a multifunctional device, which can be used to trigger flash units, film and digital cameras and light meters up to 100m. Because it uses radio transmission, rather than IR, it allows triggering around corners, through walls and is not affected by high ambient light situations. Choose from four individual channel and six studio selectors, each providing a unique ID for a different flash device or combine them to trigger all equipment within a given setup or studio. Pulsar also features a hot-shoe mount, sync in and sync out terminals, a ready indicator, a test button and an external power option.Because of its low-voltage operation, it is perfect for digital cameras. Each unit can be used as either a transmitter or receiver and is powered by just two AAA batteries. Whether you are triggering flash heads for complicated lighting setups or cameras for remote control nature shots or applying a special effect, this system is for you. Each Pulsar unit can be either a transmitter or receiver and is capable of sending or receiving signals beyond 100m (333'). The Pulsar has four separate channels, enabling the photographer to isolate up to four light sources or to combine them and fire all of them at once without leaving the camera. Additionally, the Pulsar has a studio selector switch, which provides isolation from other Pulsar units using the same channel, and allowing up to six different systems to

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Canon PIXMA iP4000 Photo Printer Review

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(More customer reviews)Prints very quick- black and white or color.Quality of photo printing is fantastic.Almost as quiet as my Toyota Sienna. Equipment / Software easy to install. From box to up and completely running in about 20 minutes. Additional features are incredible.It has a casssette tray where I keep my standard 8.5 x 11 paper for everyday printing.At the same time, you can keep your 4x6 photo paper in the sheet feeder when you want to do photos.You can switch between paper source either programatically or using the panel switch (could be a bit more accessible).The onboard duplexer is a welcome addition.

Ink usage is surprisingly minimal.

This is my second Canon inkjet--bought an I-950 about a year ago but made the fatal mistake of saving a few dollars on generic ink.Stay with all Canon supplies (price difference is actually minimal) to avoid printhead problems.

Downstream the only tweak I see would be adding CD printing capability.

Overall, a definite go for.I still keep my laser printer for the daily grind, but this machine is a great low priced option to have around for presentation quality color and digital camera fun stuff.

I

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Product Description:
High speed, sharp resolution, and economical ink refills: Could you ask for more in a home printer? The Canon PIXMA ip4000 is designed with over 1,800 nozzles that produce tiny 2-picoliter droplets, resulting in finely detailed images that are worthy to save in your family album. Pigment-based inks insure colors will stay true, and the prints are resistant to water, fading, and smudges.

This printer can connect directly to select digital cameras. Learn more about PictBridge. With resolutions up to 600 x 600 dpi black and 4,800 x 1,200 dpi color, your office documents or school reports will look as beautiful as your photos. Built-in two-sided printing reduces your paper costs and allows you truly professional design options. Top speeds of 25 ppm black and 17 ppm color (draft mode) will have your pages in hand in just a few seconds; a borderless 4-by-6-inch photo can take as little as 36 seconds--as fast as those old instant cameras, but with better quality. (All reported speeds are maximums. Actual speeds will vary.) Thanks to the PictBridge-compatible direct print port, you can connect your digital camera and churn out photos while bypassing your computer system.
The ip4000 is compatible with Mac and Windows operating systems, and requires either a USB or parallel cable to get it up and running (cables not included). Canon provides a one-year warranty covering parts and service.
What's in the Box
PIXMA iP4000 photo printer, iP4000 print head, BCI-3eBk black ink tank, BCI-6Bk black ink tank, BCI-6C cyan ink tank, BCI-6M magenta ink tank, BCI-6Y yellow ink tank, Canon Photo Paper Plus Glossy 4x6 sample pack, power cord, documentation kit, setup software and user's guide on CD-ROM; printer cable not included
This printer supports a variety of useful technologies:

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