2/29/2012

Sanus VMDD26B Articulating Wall Mount for 42" to 63" Displays (Black) Review

Sanus VMDD26B Articulating Wall Mount for 42 to 63 Displays (Black)
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After being completely dissatisfied with the wobbly tabletop stand for my 55" Hitachi 55HDS69 plasma, I began looking for a wall mount. Having bought furniture made by Sanus Systems in the past and being 100% satisfied with it, I opted for this mount (in silver). Amazon had the best price by far. This mount is beautiful and extremely heavy duty. Mounting is straight forward and the adjustments are limitless. Moving the plasma (130lbs) is effortless with this mount. The silver model has a glossy finish to it that is impressive for a tv mount. I can push the plasma completely against the wall if desired - great for parties, etc. Although several screw sizes are included, I found the screws that Hitachi already included made the best fit. You WILL need someone to help you pick up the tv/mount assembly for final installation. Basically you bolt the plate to the wall, install the mount to the tv and hang the mount/tv on the bracket. This mount is very heavy (60+lbs) and super sturdy. My wife was even impressed. I will not hesitate to purchase another one if there is a need. I would definitely go with this larger Sanus mount if you have a TV larger than 50". There are lcoking brackets that can be tightened to hold the TV position static - or they can be left loose so the TV can be moved when needed. What more can I say, it's a TV mount that is beautifully constructed. There is an optional center channel speaker bracket you can buy for it also.

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Sanus VMDD26b-01 Extra Large Full Motion Mount for 42-63 TV The VisionMount VMDD26-01 is a full-motion wall mount with dual hinged arms for extra-large flat-panel TVs. Sanus Systems’ Virtual Axis™ tilting system provides easy adjustment of viewing angle with just the touch of a finger. Full motion allows smooth tilt, swivel, pan, and extend motions up to 25.75 inches from the wall. Its extruded aluminum and solid heavy-gauge steel construction offer a sleek, high-tech look while providing strength and durability. Hinged arms give large TVs extra support and the widest range of motion. Mount can be rotated ±6º after installation to ensure TV is perfectly level. Universal mounting pattern fits virtually any 42 to 63 inch plasma TV up to 175 lbs.

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Sony KV 36HS510 - 36" WEGA CRT TV - 1080i Review

Sony KV 36HS510 - 36 WEGA CRT TV - 1080i
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The Sony was great while it worked, but as the set stopped as soon as the warranty ran out. Sony used to make great, long-lasting products, but it seems like they've lost it lately. The set itself is very heavy, and so if it does stop working you've got a huge problem in getting it repaired.

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Sony's KV-36HS510 36-inch FD (flat display) Trinitron WEGA television is a feature-packed CRT that's fully HDTV-ready. Its outstanding features include playback of JPEG image files from Memory Stick media, analog and digital high-definition inputs, a suite of picture-enhancing technologies, and twin-tuner, split-screen picture-and-picture.The set's standard 4:3 aspect ratio, Hi-Scan 1080i display, and picture-improvement circuitry let you view a mix of source signals at high resolutions, up to 1080i. DRC--Digital Reality Creation MultiFunction circuitry--upconverts standard interlaced (480i) video sources to 960i or 480p, while inputs as high-quality as 720p (720 lines, progressively scanned) are upsampled to full 1080i.Progressive scanning, referred to as 480p and 720p for the number of horizontal lines that compose the video image, creates a picture using twice the scan lines of a conventional DVD picture, giving you higher resolution and sharper images while eliminating nearly all motion artifacts. The set's auto 16:9 enhanced mode detects anamorphically encoded widescreen program sources and offers full picture resolution on the video program, wasting none of its usable lines of resolution on the black bars at the top and bottom of the screen.MID X (Multi-Image Driver X) circuitry lets you watch NTSC television broadcasts and high-definition programming simultaneously, side-by-side, using Flexible Twin-View two-tuner picture-and-picture. A special zoom mode lets you customize the size of each viewing window.ClearEdge VM wideband velocity modulation improves the definition at picture edges, creating sharper images by slowing the CRT (cathode-ray tube) beam's horizontal scanning during demanding work--say, when rendering transitions from light to dark parts of an image--and speeding it up when scanning easily rendered sections, like broad dark areas. The set's 3D digital comb filter further enhances resolution by removing blurred edges between colors and reducing dot crawl (tiny, moving dots of color along a sharp color separation in a vertical line, as in a depiction of a character's striped T-shirt).The KV-36HS510 also employs CineMotion Reverse 3-2 PullDown technology (often called 3:2 pulldown), a handy feature for watching progressive-scan movies in their native 24-frame format. Digital video mastering introduces a common distortion when adjusting 24 frames-per-second movies to 30 fps video; 3:2 pulldown digitally corrects this distortion, removing the redundant information to display a film-frame-accurate picture.Two high-definition component-video inputs grant optimum connection with a DTV decoder and progressive-scan DVD player, while standard composite- and S-video inputs accommodate all DVD players. The set even has a DVI-HDTV interface to provide a digital connection between your DTV receiver and the KV-36HS510. You can choose between a set of rear AV inputs and a set of front AV inputs for extra convenience. A rear AV output offers both fixed and variable-level analog audio outputs for hookup with, for instance, both a VCR and a surround receiver. If you don't have Dolby Pro Logic processing or a surround speaker system, the TV's SRS TruSurround will simulate surround sound through any two speakers.The set gives you stereo audio (with 7.5 watts per channel) as well a powered, 15-watt subwoofer to round out the low end. You can label the set's video inputs and channels for easy selection.Other video technologies include auto white balance, Dynamic Focus circuitry, Dynamic Picture Processor circuitry, Trinitone color temperature control, and vertical aperture compensation. An optional accessory for the set is the Sony audio/video cabinet SU-36HS1 (pictured).What's in the Box TV, remote control (RM-Y188), 2 AA batteries, user's manual, and warranty information.

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2/28/2012

Samsung HMX-H104 HD SSD Flash Memory Camcorder with 16 GB Memory and 10x Optical Zoom Review

Samsung HMX-H104 HD SSD Flash Memory Camcorder with 16 GB Memory and 10x Optical Zoom
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I now consider myself a collector of camcorders. Still, I demand excellent quality with point and shoot simplicity. My camcorder of choice up until now has been the Samsung SC HMX-20C for its brilliant video quality and amazing still photos, and the ability to take great photos while filming. I saw the HMX-H104 and thought it looks very similar. How is it different?
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
Out of the box, the HMX-H104 is sleek and stylish with the trademark bullet shape of the Samsung camcorders. It's smaller and weighs less than its cousin, the SC HMX-20C. The first thing I notice is the case, which has a rubbery grip. I like the feel, I can get a good grip and it feels sturdy in my hands. The little door on the rear leading to all the ports feels like flimsy plastic, but even that is attractive to the eye.
The lens cover closes automatically. I touch it and it feels paper thin, opens easily when I push it. It will keep the dust out. I wonder if it will take a knocking, but I hesitate to challenge it. The SC HMX-20C's lens is also automatic and opens when I push it, but it feels a little sturdier. At least I won't have to remember to put the lens cap back on.
The record button is awkwardly placed. This is true of all the bullet-shaped Samsungs that I own (I have three). It is to the far right of the rear of the camcorder. That makes it difficult to grip the camcorder with the thumb while activating the record button. I'd prefer it more to the left, or better yet on the top of the camcorder. The swivel grip does help with the handling, but it is nowhere as comfortable to hold as a Sanyo Xacti, for instance.
Both camcorders have flash memory onboard or I can choose to use a memory card (both are compatible with SDHC and SC HMX-20C can use MMCPlus). HMX-H104 has double the capacity of its cousin: 16 GB versus 8 GB.
Both camcorders lack a full manual. It is included on a disc, which means I will never read it.
VIDEO
Flip the screen open on the HMX-H104 and it's on, unlike the SC HMX-20C where I need to press the power button. HMX-H104 responds lightening fast. Turning on from sleep mode is even faster.
Both camcorders sport anti-shake technology; but that technology still needs further development, since I have yet to find a camcorder where the image doesn't shake when handheld, especially when the image is zoomed. Tip: use a tripod when possible.
Video quality of both camcorders in broad daylight is comparable. They are both excellent. In lowlight conditions, I prefer the SC HMX-20C (less video noise), but the HMX-H104 is not far behind.
HMX-H104 has wide screen format, great for viewing on my wide screen TV.
PHOTO
Nothing beats SC HMX-20C, which has the best camera in a camcorder I've ever seen. HMX-H104 sometimes give me blurry photos -- very blurry, to the point that I couldn`t even recognize the object or subject in the photo. Okay, I think I didn't press the button just right. But I am using the automatic function and just pressing the photo button every time, not doing anything different and it's great, sometimes better than SC HMX-20C . . . and then it's not. I never know when it will be blurry. Most of the time, the photos look wonderful; but it's not nearly so hard with SC HMX-20C, where I've never had a blurry photo, ever.
Also, I find photos of my son under incandescent light looks better with the SC HMX-20C. It automatically adjusts color and white balance better so that his skin tone looks more natural.
The HMX-H104 has a flash, but it is not as hefty as the pop-up flash of the SC HMX-20C.
When taking photos while filming, I feel there is more of a lag time with HMX-H104. It's not as bad as some others, but SC HMX-20C is better, if only by a split second. That does make a difference when taking photos. When I press that button, that's the photo I want, not a second later.
INTELLI-STUDIO
This is a new one for me. Connect the camcorder to the computer via USB cable and video editing software automatically runs. No need to install software from a disc. Move the video to a folder, edit it right there, make your movie.
Personally, I will not use this feature much. The video editing is basic and will involve a lot of work, unless all I want to do is trim a little and add a title. I like video editing software that includes a wizard -- plug my video in and churn out a movie I can fine-tune to my liking.
SC HMX-20C does not have Intelli-Studio. In fact, I do not own any other camcorder which has this feature. Interesting, but not necessary in my book.
Where HMX-H104 is superior to SC HMX-20C:
* it is smaller: 4 ¾" versus 5"
* it weighs less: 13.7 ounces versus 17.5 ounces (with batteries included)
* it has a rubbery grip making it attractive with a no-slip comfortable to hold, although the matte finish of the SC HMX-20C is also attractive
* it turns on the minute the screen is flipped open versus needing to press the power button
* it has a sleep mode
* it has more internal memory: 16 GB versus 8 GB
* it has a faster boot up and access time
* it has built-in video editing software -- installs automatically to the computer when I plug in my camcorder
* it automatically turns off when its been on too long
* it records in wide screen formatWhere they both excel:
* they have touch screen controls
* nice sleek designs
* they record in full HD
* they have 10X optical zoom
* the grips swivel to adjust for comfort
* automatic lens cap, though they push open easily and the HMX-H104's lens cover is paper thin
* both come with remotes.
Where they both need improvement:
* the record buttons are awkwardly placed
* manuals are on a disc, thought the quick start guide of the SC HMX-20C is more thorough.
Where HMX-H104 is inferior:
* photos while not filming can be completely out of focus and blurry on occasion
* photos while filming have slightly more lag time
* videos are not as good under lowlight conditions
* SC HMX-20C has a heftier pop-up flash
* SC HMX-20C comes with a nice, soft pouch. HMX-H104 does not come with anything to hold it in.
SUMMARY
If you want a camcorder that's a brilliant camera with great video quality, get the SC HMX-20C. It doesn't get better than that.
If you want a slightly smaller camcorder with good video quality, large internal storage capacity, fast start-up, wide screen capability, an automatic camera function that is very good but occasionally acts up, go for HMX-H104. You won't be disappointed.


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Samsung HMX-H104 High Definition Digital Camcorder Flash Memory, Memory Card - 16:9 - 2.70

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2/27/2012

Panasonic Viera TH-42PX80U 42-Inch 720p Plasma HDTV Review

Panasonic Viera TH-42PX80U 42-Inch 720p Plasma HDTV
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Price was a significant contributor to my decision to buy this TV. Conversations with tv-guys made me think that I needed to pony up for a 1080, but I just could not justify the premium over the 720p. Now that I have it, I am glad I saved my money. The picture quality is great, both in high def and for normal (low def?) viewing. Whenever I have guests and the TV is on, they are blown away by the quality and ask my questions about it.
I also like the anti-glare screen. At first I was a little concerned that the anti-glare picture would look "dull" compared to your average plasma, but that is no longer a concern - it looks great.
Another big plus for me was the appearance of the TV. Like other Panasonic models, this TV is sleek. Vizio and other manufacturers seem to incorporate larger speakers that look clunky in comparison. The size of the tv relative to the picture size is great - looks nice on the wall, and doesn't take up any more room than it needs to.
In fact, the reason why I am writing this review is because I am going to buy another one for a different room in the house. Panasonic has definitely won my repeat business with this one - I think that says it all.

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Panasonic VIERA TH42PX80U 42" 720p Plasma HDTV

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Samsung PN58B860 58-Inch 1080p Plasma HDTV Review

Samsung PN58B860 58-Inch 1080p Plasma HDTV
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From reading AVS forum I was ready to pull the trigger on a Panasonic G10. Then went to Best Buy to see them in person and this thing was just so much nicer in every way. I'm sorry Panny fanboys but the picture on the current models just looks dingy. The older ones were much nicer. Maybe they made too many compromises for the "eco" thing. And WAY reflective. Anyway, the Samsung came today, no more calibration that setting it to "movie" mode (will wait til after break-in for that). Watching a show about quasars & pulsars on DirecTV HD Channel (720p) and we are saying "whoo" and "wow" just like watching fireworks. The colors are vivid, but not harsh (like LCD's can be). No banding, jaggies. Incredibly detailed, but smooooth. It's just amazing. Flesh tones so natural it's like you're looking at a real person. This replaced a calibrated Samsung 56" DLP, which I preferred to anything I'd ever seen before (had it's caveats but LCD RPTVs were positively hazy at that time so I went with DLP since the rainbow thing was rare and didn't bother me - kind of pretty actually.) But this just blows it away. It's like the fog has lifted. Hot? Yes, it's putting off some heat; but I live in a cold climate (SF) so no big deal. Buzzing? If you put your ear right next to it (the hard drive in my DVR is way louder) but then I'm essentially at sea level, supposedly higher altitudes worsen that. Reflections? Yes, but nowhere as bad as CRT or (ahem) the current generation of MacBooks. It's glossy but subdued. For the first time I have an in-home viewing experience superior to a movie theatre. Just can't emphasize how natural the picture is. I hope Samsung & Panasonic will continue this technology. I love LCD TV for the kitchen, it's fine for watching the news, and great on the computer for static images, but this is a true videophile experience. Like MP3's (which sound great) vs full uncompressed quality digital sound. I can see how (especially sports oriented viewers) might prefer LCD - it's bright, sharp, vivid (especially if you're looking straight on - not so great off center). But if you want to see subtlety in light, shadow, cinematography - this new tech plasma is the way to go. Maybe the key is you need a technology where the pixels are producing their own light. The last time a picture was so smooth, natural, detailed to my eye were the last generation of Sony CRT Trinitron Wega sets. Perhaps OLED will be the next step up but I'm very happy with this. And Amazon's price, white-glove delivery, return policy can't be beat.The guys from Pilot unboxed it and made sure it was working before they left. Hauled it up 2 flights of stairs. I can't believe this marvel of technology was cheaper than a decent laptop.

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Samsung's new 8 Series plasma flat panel HDTV represent our finest innovations in design and performance. Samsung's 8 Series E-Panel technology combined with our Ultra FilterBrightTM Plus technology provides a stunning high contrast picture even in brighter rooms. It's not just the images on screen that capture your attention, the Ultra Slim cabinet is only 1.2, deep and gives you added versatility with its stylish vibe. The new Medi@2.0 connectivity package offers customizable online content via user-friendly 'widgets,' networking capability via the DLNA standard, and playback of your camera and camcorder via USB 2.0. Add 4 advanced HDMI inputs that feature Samsung's Anynet+ (CEC standard) technology making system control of compatible A/V devices like a Blu-ray player or HTIB system a one-touch operation. If you're looking for the best Full 1080p performance and advanced connectivity, Samsung's new 8 series plasma HDTVs are designed with this in mind.

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2/26/2012

Philips GoGear Muse 16 GB MP3 Player (Silver) Review

Philips GoGear Muse 16 GB MP3 Player (Silver)
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The Philips GoGear is a nice AV player that doesn't hurt your pocket too much.
First of all, it has a great sound quality. The Philips FullSound technology enriches the sound and the earphones that come with the player are great (I have AKG K330 earphones which are great, and I now use the Philips earphones).
Video quality is good - screen view is crispy. the only bad thing is that you can hardly see it in direct sun light. The player has HDMI exit which I haven't tried yet.
Lets talk about the player's interface: I bought this player after having Microsoft Zune 120 for a year (it dies after a year of moderate use... Microsoft). The Zune had a great intuitive interface. I can't say this about the GoGear. In Philips' player you can't choose songs by their genre and you can't add songs to "now playing" playlist.
One more thing is that if you set the volume limit, you can't cancel it while listening to the radio. You have to go back to "Music" and cancel it.
The touch screen is the player's weakest link. Although it supposed to be capacitive it has poor and inaccurate response. Scrolling to 'Z' in song names or artists names is really frustrating.
The software that comes with the player is Philips Songbird. After using Microsoft Zune software I understand how poor looking is the software - and hence, much less intuitive. One thing that annoyed me is that although while installing the software I didn't want the software to update media info from the Internet - as soon as I added my libraries to the software it started to chance the organization and the ID3 tags of the files. As soon as I understood that I started using Windows Media Player as my media organizer.
Radio - I has a nice feature in which it auto tunes the presets. It also has RDS. In the American model, the radio recording feature is diabled.
To sum up, this could have been a great player if the screen was of better quality. Maybe next hardware updates will improve the player's user interface.

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With FullSoundTM, Surround for movies andSound Isolation earphones, take in an unrivalled sound experience with the GoGear Muse. Watch videos on its 3.2-Inch HVGA screen or hook your player up to a HDTV for greater viewing pleasure.

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2/25/2012

Peerless ST650P Tilt Wall Mount for 32" to 50" Displays (Black) Review

Peerless ST650P Tilt Wall Mount for 32 to 50 Displays (Black)
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This wall mount is excellent. Don't be confused by the description however. The "horizontal" adjustment is linear, in other words it moves lateraly from side to side rather than rotates. But, this is a good feature if you have to locate studs to get a proper mount. You can adjust the mount to hit the studs by the many mounting holes and then move the screen to adjust to the center. Also, the package of bolts for connecting the flat screen should be tested in the flat screen mounting holes to make sure that you have the right bolts.

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The SmartMount for 32" to 50" flat panel screens provides a versatile and secure solution for professional environments such as boardrooms, hotels and stadiums. This mount offers smooth, continuous one touch tilt, allowing for easy adjustment to achieve the perfect viewing angle without tools. The mount includes simple to align universal brackets and a unique wall plate that can be mounted to two wood studs up to 24" apart, concrete, cinder block or two metal studs (accessory required). For easy installation the mount is preassembled and includes a Sorted-For-You™ baffle pack with all screen hardware and security fasteners.

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OmniMount MOTION 52 Motorized Cantilever Wall Mount (fits 37"-52" flat panels) Review

OmniMount MOTION 52 Motorized Cantilever Wall Mount (fits 37-52 flat panels)
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First of all they are very serious about the 95 lb limit. My TV is 92 lbs which is under the limit but I could tell that it was straining to move it and within two weeks it broke. Also be aware that it is basically only made to work with Samsung TV's. After two weeks I returned it and spent a few more bucks on an X-Arm by CLO Systems which holds up to 185 lbs, has more features, movement range and can hold up to a 65 inch TV. This mount might be slightly cheaper but you get what you pay for.

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You may be used to seeing motion pictures but you’ve never seen a picture in motion like this.Introducing our MotionPicture motorized mount - the Motion52.Smooth and silent automation allows you to tilt, pan and swivel you panel with the touch of button.Universal rails make it compatible with all flat panel brands and a built-in safety mechanism stops movement when obstructed.It has the most advanced features combined with the convenience of automation meaning your picture will move where you want it to.

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2/24/2012

Sony KV-32XBR450 32" XBR Wega Flat-Screen HDTV Monitor with PIP Review

Sony KV-32XBR450 32 XBR Wega Flat-Screen HDTV Monitor with PIP
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This set is surprisingly good in the following ways:
After owning this set for four months, I am astonished at how BAD other televisions look. When my friend bought a 32 inch WEGA (non XBR) and had us over to take a look, I was appalled by the overdriven picture, extensive red push and large gap between scan lines. It was like watching television through a set of venetian blinds. The same with another friend's Toshiba flat tube set.
Further, if you're a gadget-type person. you'll appreciate the fantastically in-depth service menu. Every conceivable internal setting of the television can be accessed through the remote. We have dropped the red push altogether and the picture is considerably more pleasing than when the set was new.
Finally, the resolution of the picture tube is so much better than standard televisions that flaws, edits, and manipulations in NTSC sources can easily be detected with the naked eye. This could be a turn-off for some casual owners; other television sets are too blurry and inaccurate to reveal the flaws in a broadcast. Not the XBR! With this set, the difference between high quality and inferior broadcasts is as plain as day.
To sum up, this television is superior in every way. In fact, its superiority makes some common NTSC programming look pretty bad. Some owners won't like it, preferring to hide the flaws in the signal by watching through an inferior set.

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Sony's high-definition-ready KV-32XBR450 32-inch WEGA television offersa lot of screen, a ton of features, and the bright, detailed picturequality for which Trinitron WEGA sets are known. The KV-32XBR450's flat,FD Trinitron picture tube cuts down on glare and minimizes imagedistortion, and its wealth of video technologies ensures that you'llenjoy sharp, vivid pictures, whatever your source components.The TV produces stereo audio with 15 biamplified watts per channelthrough built-in two-way speakers that border the screen. One of theKV-32XBR450's coolest features is its 16:9 enhanced mode,which--together with a feature called Hi-Scan 1080i--delivers maximumpicture quality by concentrating all viewable scan lines within aletterboxed image, wasting none of its horizontal resolution onrendering the black bars that border a widescreen image.Velocity modulation (selectable: off, high, low) improves the definitionat picture edges, creating sharper images by slowing the CRT(cathode-ray tube) beam's horizontal scanning during demandingwork--say, when rendering transitions from light to dark parts of animage--and speeding it up when scanning easily rendered sections, likebroad dark areas. The set's three-line digital comb filter furtherenhances resolution by removing blurred edges between colors andreducing dot crawl (tiny, moving dots of color along a sharp colorseparation in a vertical line, as in a depiction of a character'sstriped T-shirt).Top-of-the-line high-definition-capable component-video inputs minimizedigital and line-scan artifacts from compatible video sources (480i,480p, 1080i), while standard composite- and S-video inputs accommodateall DVD players. You can choose between multiple sets of rear A/V inputsand a set of front A/V inputs for extra convenience when hooking up acamcorder or gaming console. A rear AV output offers both fixed andvariable-level analog audio outputs for hookup with, for instance, botha VCR and a surround receiver. You can label the set's video inputs andchannels for easy selection.The KV-32XBR450 offers Sony's CineMotion reverse 3:2 pulldowntechnology, a handy feature for watching progressive-scan movie programsin their native 24-frame format. Digital video mastering introduces acommon distortion when adjusting 24-frames-per-second movies to 30 fpsvideo; 3:2 pulldown digitally corrects this distortion, removing theredundant information to display a film-frame-accurate picture.Freeze Memo lets you freeze what's on screen and view it in a PIP windowwhile programming continues on the main screen. This is ideal for notingWeb site addresses, phone numbers, and contact information on the screen.Channel Fix automatically sets TV to a specific channel (such as 3) forcable box control, letting you switch channels on the cable box via theTV's universal remote control without altering your TV setting. TheControl S feature (input/output) lets you use the set with other Sonycomponents, controlling all with a single remote control, and only everpointing the remote at the TV--not each piece of gear.Other video technologies include Magnetic Quadra Pole (reduces beam spotdistortion and improves corner-to-corner focus, as well as picturesharpness), auto white balance, Dynamic Picture Processor and DynamicFocus circuitry, color temperature control, and vertical aperturecompensation. S-video detection automatically senses and switches theset's input to match an S-video source signal.What's in the Box TV, remote control (RM-Y184), remote batteries, a user's manual, andwarranty information.

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2/23/2012

Sony KV-36FS120 36-Inch FD Trinitron WEGA TV Review

Sony KV-36FS120 36-Inch FD Trinitron WEGA TV
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I went looking for a "HDTV experience", I couldn't afford it so I got the closest thing I could. It is not "hdtv" rather DVI inputs but with satellite TV with an s-video connection and a dvd connected to the component in the back I'm super impressed. Tv shows never looked so freaking nice, and with DVD's the colors are astounding. I'm so spoiled I wont watch TV elsewhere. With a flat screen it looks great off and on. Though much better on. I havent ever used the speakers built in, i just went to surround sound with the satellite hookup.
The flat screen for me means also that I can view it from almost any angle and it still doesnt matter that I'm not directly in front of it. I'm at my desk parallel to it and with a slight tilt my way I'm watching it. never again a problem with the tv facing some direction disadvantaging other viewers.
It feels like a small car to move. To get it upstairs I needed four guys and they were struggling like none other. With three guys one hurt his back and put the tv down scratching the top gray plastic. it was very hard to get a grip on it. I ended up building a wood platform so we could lift it. Its 220 pounds, but feels next to impossible for two people to carry.
I'd bought it because it was a big 36inch, flat screen, and had component input. I thought about DVI but that meant much more money and a reciever that would cost an arm and a leg. there was a 32inch at the store for 200 more with a sharper picture, but being smaller and more money, I couldnt -I was already jumping up a notch getting this. I could spent less but then it wouldnt have been a flat screen. I spent the extra because I could have this TV for hopefully ten years and be happy with it. I saw it as an investment. My buddy has a RCA 52 inch projection hdtv and mine is still much better. Sony has digital filters and their own mix of technologies that just make watching it awesome. it's not projection so i figure in the long run I wont be losing picture quality also.
I've owned mine now for a little over a year.

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Improve your movie and TV viewing experience with the 32-inch flat-screen KV-32FS120 from Sony. The KV-32FS120's screen reduces glare and reflection, and increases the sight-line angles, so you can see the whole picture from almost anywhere in the room. The KV-32FS120's flat screen eliminates the distortion that is common to traditional picture tube TVs, keeping straight lines straight instead of curved. The KV-32FS120 adds a widescreen cinematic element to your home theater. The 16:9 aspect ratio of the screen lets you watch movies in the format they were filmed in, and you can adjust regular TV programming to fit a more traditional picture onscreen. A digital comb filter automatically enhances the color and brightness of the picture, and Sony's Trinitron technology delivers sharp images and realistic tones. Enjoy great stereo sound through built-in front-panel speakers, including virtual surround sound with Sony's 3D audio processing. The KV-32FS120 features an automatic sound adjustment feature that minimizes big jumps in volume from channel to channel or between shows and commercials. You can also access Spanish language and other audio soundtracks, when a SAP signal is available. The KV-32FS120 includes such essential features as automatic channel programming, a sleep timer, closed-captioning, and parental controls. All of these features are controlled through an easy-to-navigate onscreen menu that lets you control the TV in your choice of English, French, or Spanish. Connecting the KV-32FS120 to your VCR, DVD player, or audio receiver is quick and simple. There are two composite inputs on the rear panel, and an additional front-panel input makes it easy to hook up a camcorder or video game to the TV. The rear panel also includes S-video and component video inputs for high-quality image transfers, as well as an analog audio output for enhancing the sound through your home theater system. What's in the Box Television set, remote control, two AA batteries, owner's manual.

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ADVANCED Mini HDMI to Standard 1.3c HDMI Cable Review

ADVANCED Mini HDMI to Standard 1.3c HDMI Cable
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I ordered this as a substitute for the expensive Canon brand HDMI cable and it works great. Like most high priced branded cables, these cheaper ones are no different. The only thing they lack is marketing and branding that has to be paid for by the consumer. People who buy Monster, or any other high branded cable are wasting their money. Buy cheap cables, they're all the same.

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This HDMI to Mini HDMI Converstion cable is your link to pulse-pounding HD viewing & gaming on your high definition home theater, camera, or HD system system. Whether you're in the center of the action or watching a 1080p DVD on your gaming console, our cable boosts the bandwidth for ultra-accurate digital signal transfer. That means you're not just playing, you're in the game. Graphics are sharper and more detailed, colors are richer and more lifelike, and sounds are bigger and bolder. Bring the experience to life with our highest quality HDMI Cable! This cable meets their exact requirements for data and digital sound/video but does not have the fancy coloring or cable end. Performance is performance and we don't like to overcharge $100 or more for "looks." This cable comes sealed in the manufacturer's sealed plastic bag, no fancy packaging necessary to charge you more for. Also available in a 3, 10, and 15ft editions.

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2/22/2012

Kodak Zi8 Pocket Video Camera (Raspberry) Review

Kodak Zi8 Pocket Video Camera (Raspberry)
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Check out my sample footage video on Youtube. On Youtube search "djeror zi8 low light"
In my previous review of the Kodak Zi8 I was pretty frustrated at the fact that whenever I used the built in microphone the recorded videos had an annoying high pitch whine that made the audio from my videos almost unusable. Kodak recognized that this was an issue and created a firmware update that fixed the problem. It also fixed a few other things like the previous issue of the image getting darker as you zoomed in. They seem to have fixed all of the major problems with this firmware fix.I do tech product reviews so I need the following things:
- External mic input - most of my videos are shot wearing a lapel mic
- Macro mode - I have to get close to little tiny screens
- SDHC memory - I go to all day trade shows, I need 10+ hours of video
- Power options - I need to be able to shoot while AC power is plugged in or use a large external battery.
- Under $200 - I'm poor.
Because of these requirements no other camcorder can fit my needs. One cool thing about this camera is that it is much more upgradable than the other pocket cameras on the market.Con:
-The built in microphone is OK now that they fixed the whining noise, but it's still not amazing.
Work-around:
- Don't use the internal mic... I use an Audio Technica lapel mic for 1 person interviews.Audio Technica ATR-3350 Lavalier Omnidirectional Condenser Microphone For events I ordered a Sony stereo mic to use instead of the built in mic. Sony ECM-DS70P Electret Condenser Stereo Microphone . Although I wish that Kodak made the internal mic better, for the most part I am kind of excited that the Sony stereo mic will give me much better sound than any of the standard internal mics that any of the pocket cams have.Con:
-Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) sucks a lot of juice. Also the Zi8 uses a proprietary battery rather than cheap swappable AA's. Battery life when shooting non-stop is 1hr 16min in 720p 60fps with EIS on. If you turn off EIS you get about 1hr 41min at 720p 60fps.
Work-around:
- Use the USB to power cable that comes with the camera in conjunction with an external battery source. This is a must if you are going to be recording for more than an hour with EIS, cause that's about what the internal battery will give you. Tekkeon TekCharge Rechargeable Li-Poly Battery You can just stick this battery pack in your pocket and connect the charging cable to the Zi8. This will allow you to record for a super long amount of time. I haven't tested to see what my total record time with the battery pack will be but it should be around 5X the standard recording time. (about 6 hours with EIS on, almost 9 with it off) This gives you the best battery life of almost any camcorder. Sure it's an extra cost, but when you're at an all day trade show you don't have to worry about running out of juice.Con:
- Image stabilization can't rescue video you shoot while moving around. Any camera motion makes video awful.
Work-round:
- Accept the fact you should probably be using a mini tripod with this camera or at least stand still. Also, although it takes a bunch of time to process if you have the new iMovie the image stabilization processing you can do is light years beyond what the EIS in the Kodak Zi8 can do. One more important note. Make sure you buy high speed SDHC memory cards for this thing. If your SD card is not fast enough the camera will record for like 2 seconds and then stop with an error. It took me a while to figure out why the camera kept stopping recording when in HD mode but worked fine in SD mode. It was because of my old SD card. You need to make sure your SD card has a write speed of at least 9MB/s if you want to record in 1080p. These high speed cards cost more, but you need them for any camcorder that is going to record HD video to them, it's not just the Zi8. I think most Class 6 high speed SDHC cards should work.
If you want to get the most out of this camera plan on spending an extra $100 - $150 in order to buy upgrade items. Personally I've come to the conclusion that the extra expenses were worth it. It all depends on what you plan on using the camera for. For a typical mom purse cam this would not be my recommendation, I would say go with a Flip Ultra HD. But for someone with particular needs like mine this camera may be the only one that fits the bill.

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Kodak Zi8 Pocket Video Camera Raspberry

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2/21/2012

Sony KD-27FS170 27-Inch FD Trinitron WEGA Digital TV Review

Sony KD-27FS170 27-Inch FD Trinitron WEGA Digital TV
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This is a great TV by means of picture quality. Component input is superb. S-Video is really good also. I only have a few complaints though. There is no option to adjust the treble or bass for the audio. Also there is no audio out so you cant hook up a stereo or other speakers. Also when the screen is almost all white such as watching a hockey game you can see two pink shades of colored lines about 3-4 inches thick running vertical on the left and right side of the screen, which is probably the speaker's(built in the tv) magnetic field causing that. Other than the few complaints the tv is really nice. Thats why I give it 4 of 5!

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You don't have to take out a second mortgage to enjoy crisply colorful, high definition-quality video and audio with the 27-inch Sony Trinitron KD27FS170 flat CRT television. The visually flat FD Trintron tube minimizes annoying glare from light sources, enhancing contrast, and corner-to-corner detail is rendered more accurately because images aren't distorted by a curved screen. It features both built-in analog and digital tuners, which enables you to receive digital ATSC programming via terrestrial signals (over-the-air) for watching highly detailed HD broadcasts.
You'll get great picture reproduction from compatible cable/satellite set-top boxes and DVD players using the three-jack component video (Y/Pb/Pr) inputs, which provides separate connections for luminance (Y), blue color difference (PB) and red color difference (PR). This results in increased bandwidth for color information, resulting in a more accurate picture with clearer color reproduction and less bleeding than you would get with S-Video or composite (RCA yellow video plug) connections.
The KD27FS170 has a 4:3 aspect ratio and produces standard definition, 480i (interlaced) resolution, but the picture quality will be greatly enhanced using the component video connection. Also, this set provides a wide screen mode for watching digital 16:9 (widescreen) broadcasts in their original widescreen format, or you can choose the zoom function to fill the 4:3 aspect ratio screen.
The digital 3-line comb filter compares each horizontal scanning line with the lines above and below, separating black-and-white detail from color information to virtually eliminate edge crawls and rainbow effects while enhancing horizontal resolution and minimizing video noise. It also offers the following convenience features:
Parental Control (V-Chip) helps parents monitor what their children watch on TV by establishing rating limits.
Favorite Channel function enables you to set up and select from up to five of your favorite channels.
Program Palette presets offer combinations of picture settings engineered to make the most of specific entertainment types (choose from Vivid, Standard, Movie and Sports).
Front panel controls allows access to the on-screen menus without the use of a remote control.
Front composite A/V inputs let you quickly connect video games, camcorders, or stereo/mono equipment.
Meets Energy Star guidelines for energy efficiency.
This set has built-in stereo speakers that produce 5 watts of power per channel (for 10 watts of total power) as well as Dolby Digital for 5.1-channel surround sound. It offers the following connection options:
Composite (RCA audio/video): 2 inputs (1 front)
S-Video: 1 input (audio connection uses composite left/right audio jacks)
Component (Y/Pb/Pr): 1 input (with left/right audio jacks)
RF: 1 analog VHF/UHF and 1 digital ATSC

What's in the Box Flat-screen CRT television, remote control (with batteries), printed operating instructions
Warranty 1 year parts, 90 days labor, 2 years picture tube

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Diamond PLAW6060 Articulating Wall Mount for 37" to 61" Displays (Black) Review

Diamond PLAW6060 Articulating Wall Mount for 37 to 61 Displays (Black)
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This review is being written by my husband.
This review will talk about several things that can be seen in the customer pictures I uploaded.
This review is very long. The instructions included with the wall mount are exceedingly skimpy. I want to provide as much detail as possible, including the measurements I made to install the wall mount.
I highly recommend this mount. It is the best priced mount for the capabilities it provides and is very sturdy. The only problem is the difficulty in mounting it (given the lack of instructions) - which I hope I address with this review.
Today, I mounted my 55 inch LCD TV using the Diamond PLA W6060 Articulating Wall Mount. I was concerned about this mount given its low price compared to other wall mounts. I decided to give it a try since I could get it via Amazon Prime (free return shipping if I didn't like it). I love this mount. It is a very sturdy wall mount. It swivels left and right and tilts up and down (both of which I'm currently using and I absolutely need the tilt since I mounted my TV as close to the ceiling as possible).
Upon delivery, the box was ripped and partially open. Within the box, there was the wall bracket, two folding arms, an angle plate (allows for tilt and swivel), the matched plate, two fixed plates, three boxes each containing several plastic covers, and several bags containing miscellaneous piece parts. Also, there was a single sheet of 8.5" x 14" paper that provided the extent of the installation instructions. See the picture of page 1 of installation instructions I uploaded. Page 1 is simply an exploded parts diagram. However, from this you can determine how to assemble the mount. Page 2 (see uploaded picture) provides a parts list of the different TV mounting screws provided for the different VESA mounts used by various TVs.
The TV mounting screws attach the "fixed plate" to your TV. These screws must be the proper length. A screw that is too short may not hold the TV firmly enough. A screw that is too long may damage your TV (as my TV's manual warned about). So, the first thing I did was determine if the included screws would work. My TVs manual said I needed to use the plastic spacer provided with the TV for wall mount installations. However, using that spacer and the screws provided with the mount would not work. The plastic spacer and the longer screws provided with the mount did work (see uploaded picture showing the TV screw penetration). The small screw in the picture was taken out of the TV to compare to the wall mount screw. The exposed length of both screws are the same, therefore, I knew the screws and plastic spacers provided with the wall mount would not damage my TV. Also, I compared the diameter of the plastic spacer provided with my TV to the one which came with the wall mount to make sure the plastic spacer was acceptable. At this point, I attached one "fixed plate" to my TV (see uploaded picture).
Next, on the floor, I loosely assembled the entire mount (except for the one "fixed plate" already mounted to my TV). The folding arms were very tight so I loosened them so they would allow the TV to move easily away from the wall once mounting was complete (see uploaded picture). A half turn counter-clockwise of the bolts on the top and bottom of the folding arms loosened the folding arms enough so the TV moves fairly easily toward and away from the wall. Once the tilt is set, the bolts that allow the tilt to be adjusted must be tightened. I set the tilt (as would be expected) after the TV was mounted on the wall.
Next, I had to determine where on the wall the "Wall Bracket" needed to be positioned. As I said, I wanted the TV as close to the ceiling as possible. I mounted the fixed plates onto the TV and pulled them as high as they would go before tightening. This was to allow some upward adjustment of the TV once on the wall to allow moving the TV closer to the ceiling or adjusting twist (in case the TV was not level after mounting). I measured the top edge of the TV to the top edge of the fixed plate (in my case, 6.5"), the top edge of the fixed plate to the bottom row of mounting holes of the wall plate (15.25" should work for everyone), and then left 0.75 inch of space to allow room to hang the TV (I should have left one inch). I put the bottom row of screws a total of 22.5" down from the ceiling (It should have been 22.75"). I made my measurements from the ceiling, using a stud finder to locate the studs, and marked where the lower screws needed to be put into the wall. I have 16" on center studs, and luckily, mounting to the two studs placed the wall bracket only 0.5" left of the center for the wall. The matched plate allows for several inches of left/right movement of the TV (at least for my 55" TV). I then made sure the marks for the screw holes were perfectly level (used a level and my wife's eye - she tends to be more accurate than a 4 foot level). I then marked the holes for the upper screws (3 and 7/8" above the lower screws). I used a nail and hammer to make sure the screw marks were centered on the studs and then drilled the pilot holes using a 13/64 drill bit (the directions do not tell you what size to use).
I detached the wall plate from the rest of the mount to make it easier to attach to the wall. I mounted the wall bracket and again used a level and my wife's eye to make sure it was perfectly level and tightened all of the screws into the wall studs. I then attached the rest of the wall mount to the wall bracket.
For those who care, I uploaded a picture that shows the minimum distance the TV will be away from the wall. For my TV which needed to use the plastic spacers provided with the wall mount - the minimum distance from the wall is 5.5".
I then attached the other "fixed plate" to the TV. My wife and I then lifted the TV to attach to the mount. Guess what, I didn't leave enough room from the ceiling. I needed about 1/8" more room. Luckily, by tilting the matched plate, we were able to get the TV onto the wall mount. I then, loosely, put the nuts that lock the "fixed plate" onto the matched plate, pushed the TV as close to the wall as it would go, and moved the TV left/right on the matched plate to center the TV on the wall. I tightened the nuts to lock the fixed plates so the TV would not shift left/right. Guess what, the TV is perfectly level. I was afraid the weight of the TV would cause one side to sag - but it didn't.
Currently the TV is mounted so that the right edge of the TV is about 3 feet from the wall and the left edge is next to the wall (i.e. angled left) and tilted down about 10 degrees. Once we finish moving furniture, the TV will be flat (all be it 5.5" away) against the wall.
My wife and I didn't like the plastic corner covers so we didn't attach them. However, I did upload a picture that shows the plastic cable guides (with the TV's power cable running through them) and a clip that shows what the corners would look like if we did use the plastic corner covers. It is a good thing we didn't want to use the corner covers since two were missing (a total of 12 pieces, 2 per corner and 3 corners per folding arm, are supposed to be included).
Tools needed: #2 Phillips screw driver (for TV VESA screws), adjustable wrench, 9/16 socket wrench, ½ socket wrench, drill with 13/64 bit, level, stud finder, nail and hammer used to verify that I located the center of the wall studs.
Final pictures uploaded: picture of "wall bracket" and picture of wall mount screws (I used 4 with 4 washers screwed into wall studs) - anchors are provided in case you need to mount into drywall instead of wall studs (I'd go for the studs or use toggle bolts if only mounting into drywall).


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Wall mounts provide an excellent means of integrating a Plasma TV or LCD TV into a room environment thereby freeing up floor space and enhancing the living area. Blending sturdy construction with extraordinary ease of assembly, this universal flat panel mount consists of solid heavy-gauge steel with a powder black finish.

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2/20/2012

Samsung TX-S2783 27" Slimfit TV Review

Samsung TX-S2783 27 Slimfit TV
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I checked with the spec and Sumsung website, this is just a SDTV without HDMI input. This is definitely not a HDTV.

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Enjoy all channels across the standard and high-definition spectrum with the 27-inch Samsung TXS2783 CRT SDTV. At just 16.6 inches, it has a much thinner profile than conventional CRT sets and it's packed to the gills with advanced video and audio features. While this set only displays video in the analog 480i (interlaced) format, it does include a built-in ATSC tuner to receive digital signals through antenna--allowing you access to both standard and HD channels. A standard 181-channel NTSC tuner receives regular broadcast and cable channels.
Samsung's DynaFlat screen increases the viewing angle while minimizing distortion and glare, and the TXS2783 has a 4:3 aspect ratio. Along with a digital comb filter (which separates the color signals to minimize dot crawl and blurred edges), dynamic black level expansion and a white peak limiter features work to deliver a crisp, clear picture. The velocity scan modulation function improves black to white image transitions for sharper detail and enhanced picture definition in high brightness operating conditions.
Choose the mode (standard, dynamic, movie, or custom with adjustable brightness, contrast, sharpness, and color selections) that best suits the program you're watching. You can also select from five screen filling modes--normal, wide, zoom 1, zoom 2, or panorama (which stretches less in the middle and more towards the edge). It has a number of convenience features, including Remote Surf timer (returns TV to original channel so other channels can be browsed during commercial breaks), sleep timer, V-Chip parental controls, auto channel programming, and tri-lingual on-screen displays (English, French, and Spanish).
It features two built-in, 3.5-watt speakers and right/left stereo output for connection to a home theater audio system. The MTS stereo sound system can play SAP (Secondary Audio Program) audio whenever a broadcast or recording includes a secondary language track. The Auto Volume Leveler feature keeps audio volume consistent during channel changing to minimize static sound bursts, and it offers four preset sound modes (standard, movie, music, and speech). Enjoy progressive scan DVD playback or game play using the component video inputs. The full line-up of video and audio connections includes:
Composite AV In (RCA): 1
S-Video In: 1
Component Video In: 1
RF In: 1

Tech Talk Component video (also called Y/Pb/Pr) features a three-jack video input, which provides separate connections for luminance (Y), blue color difference (PB) and red color difference (PR). This results in increased bandwidth for color information, resulting in a more accurate picture with clearer color reproduction and less bleeding than you would get with S-Video or composite (RCA yellow video plug) connections. You will need a separate RCA left/right audio cable for sound.
High Definition Formats: The most common high-def (HD) video format is 720p, which displays video at 720 vertical by 1280 horizontal pixels. The "p" denotes that it is progressive scan, meaning that all video lines are filled at the same time. The 1080i format displays video at 1080 vertical by 1920 horizontal pixels, and the "i" means that it is interlaced (the old-school way of presenting video where the screen scans the odd-numbered video lines first, then the even-numbered lines). The 1080p format has the same pixel resolution as 1080i, but it is a progressive scan format and thus has a constant vertical resolution of 1080 lines. Standard definition television programming has a 480i format, but some sets provide a progressive 480p enhanced definition (EDTV) display.
Scanning method: Frames of video are made up of many lines of video that are scanned onto a television screen so closely they appear to be a solid picture. The scanning method can be either interlaced or progressive. Interlaced scanning (also used in today's analog TV), indicated by an "i" in the video format, fills in the odd number lines (1,3,5,7...) and then fills in the even number lines (2,4,6,8...) until the frame is complete. Progressive scanning, "p," fills in each line consecutively until the frame is complete, like a computer display.
What's in the Box Flat CRT TV, remote control (with batteries), printed operating instructions

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2/19/2012

Sony HDR-CX150 16GB High Definition Handycam Camcorder (Black) Review

Sony HDR-CX150 16GB High Definition Handycam Camcorder (Black)
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I bought this camera on Monday, had fun with it for two days, and then returned it. Although I can't afford it, I then closed my eyes and ordered the HDR-CX550V. I basically went from the bottom of the Sony consumer class to the top in one fell swoop.
Things I liked about the CX150:
* FABULOUS quality in adequate light. The video in 24 Mbps mode is stunning. Search YouTube for examples. Every hair on my cat, dust particles in sunlight, it all shows up with beautiful resolution. It's amazing. Almost Blu-Ray quality. You won't find any consumer-class camcorder with better quality.
* 25x zoom , when used with a tripod, lets you get really close
* "macro" works without any special settings. Just put the lens an inch away and it will focus. Resolves fingerprints.
* Amazingly tiny. With no hard drive or tape drive, the unit is frighteningly small. You can put it and all the cables + charger in a camera case designed for a DSLR + telephoto
* PMB software works, has good basic editing. Used it to grab frames from movies - almost don't need the "still" function if 1990x1080 res is good enough.
* It will take a 32GB memory stick, even though the feature list says they only support 16.
* The touch screen is responsive
* "touch the object" spot focus, spot white balance is cool
* Give it the NP-FV70 battery and it will record for hours and hours
Things I either did not like or features missing (by "missing" I realize that you have to pay more). Don't mistake the length of my 'cons' list as hating the little guy - it's a good camera for what it is designed to be.
* A bit pricey. I think it is worth about $450.00, not the $549.00 list
* No wide-angle. I wish Sony had made the lens go from slightly wide-angle to about 15x, instead of from normal to 25x.
* No external mic input
* No hot shoe - not even the Sony proprietary one
* Zoom motor noise is very audible in quiet settings - don't expect to use this camera to record acoustic orchestral music in concert halls
* The "smooth slow-mo 240 fps" is NOT HD 1080i60 quality. Might be OK at 720, but I found it disappointingly blurry. I'd love to see it have the same capability as the Casio EX-FX1 (not holding breath)
* Not enough buttons - too much reliance on the touch screen. I prefer buttons to scrolling through menus. Sony could fix this by providing more than 6 "my menu" choices.
* Auto focus works good most of the time, but when it gets confused it is horrible. Combine that with no quick focus wheel and it is a recipe for loosing shots
* Picture mode is not available in 24 Mbps HD mode.
* The electronic stabilization does not work. I've grown used to optical stabilization in my DSC-H50 and there is no going back.
* Short of using something like the Black Rapid Straps Fasten-R2 screwed into the tripod shoe, there is no way to attach a neck strap. I almost dropped it several times.
* The plastic housing is sensitive to noise - any little touch while recording will show up as sound in the video.
* No windscreen for the mics. Combine that with no external mic capability and you won't be able to hear anything in windy conditions.
* No remote
* No "night shot" infrared
* Low light performance is what you would expect from a small lens size. All the electronics in the world can't fully compensate for glass area.
Summary: if you want a fairly cheap, tiny camera for shooting GREAT quality vids of vacations, the kids and the pets, this is an excellent choice. Want to do more, and you will need to pay more for a better unit. Just want to help other people avoid my experience of being a bit disappointed and having to trade up.

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Capture stunning 1920 x 1080 Full HD video and 3.0 Megapixel images with the ultra-compact HDR-CX150, which features an "Exmor R" CMOS sensor for superior low-light performance, 16GB of embedded flash memory, and a Carl Zeiss Vario Sonnar T* 25x optical zoom lens to help bring you closer to the action.

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Philips SRU8015/37 Prestigo 15 Device Universal Remote Review

Philips SRU8015/37 Prestigo 15 Device Universal Remote
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I just received the brand new PRESTIGO 8015/37 remote on January 31, and it is an all around beautiful to look at remote. I have 4 devices programmed, and it performs all functions available on the originals. I had researched the Logitech Harmony remotes (680), and I do like their computer USB method of programming and updating over the Philips set up wizard. Some owners of Harmony have reported that the software is slow and lethargic.
As for the Prestigo 8015/37.....
Pros:
1. It is designer beautful, with all keys fully backlit, and a unique 2" colour LCD screen which accepts the network icons and functions. One touch TV selection
2. Programming is intuitive but imperfect using the setup wizard.
3. Once fully programmed, all keys on the 4 devices I have set up so far work well. This takes some patience and perseverence.
4. A nice shape, preferred over the curvy Harmony 680 and higher.
Cons:
1. Database is limited, with new devices requiring manual programming.
2. The . key for sub-channels for the 7432 required a manual key fix, wasting several hours in the initial set up procedures. Frustrating.
3. 3 of 4 devices (new) required manual programming. Even Philips items.
4. Documentation could be improved.
All in all, a very nice fully functional remote. A real cool factor, making it a gee whiz component. Prices range from $[...] (Amazon, [...]) to $[...] elsewhere. I have the Philips 7432 HDTV, Philips Blu Ray Player, Philips DVDR HDD, and the Toshiba HDDVD fully programmed. It accepts 15 devices, and has 400 built in colour icons. 1500 brand devices in database.
Now that I have been using the remote for over a week, I am very satisfied with my purchase. The coolness of the remote includes the piano black with silver finish which matches most of today's HDTVs, the really nice LCD screen with colored icons for all networks and most cable/satellite channels, and the fully backlit buttons. The manual programming is a bit tedious, but works well after you get the hang of it; you only have to do it once, and you can change functions on a key later on.
This new remote, which just came out in December, won an Innovations Award at the recent 2008 CES (Consumers Electronic Show) in Las Vegas.
I am glad that I went with the 8015/37 over the more popular Logitech Harmony.
Added August 30,2010:
I now recommend the Philips Prestigo SRT 9320 remote, which is 2 years newer, over this product. It has corrected any shortcomings in the software and hardware design that existed.

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Philips SRU8015/37 Prestigo 15 Device Universal Remote

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