Sony ICD-UX512BLK Digital Flash Voice Recorder

I originally had purchased the Olympus WS 700M. To decide between this Sony and the Olympus I read all the reviews and thought about it quite a bit. In all honesty they seemed to be about the same. So... I bought the Olympus thinking it wouldn't matter. I was wrong. I received the Olympus and it was so cheaply built that I felt it would break just by holding it in my hand. I also knew that one drop to the ground and it would be toast. Also, the on/off switch didn't function properly. I returned it and ordered the Sony. Functionally, they are basically identical. The quality of sound is also identical. However, the Sony is built to last (at least longer than the Olympus). If you're deciding between the two, get the Sony. You won't be sorry. Also, this recorder only requires one AAA battery (I think in the product description it may say that it requires two), and has a place for a micro SD card for additional memory. I bought this recorder to record riffs on the guitar. It records them far beyond my expectations. I can hardly tell the difference between an unplugged recording into this baby and plugging my guitar into a recording interface, which is plugged into my computer. Also, the USB plug retracts back into the device. Needless to say, I'm really happy with it.

this device has a great quality in sound recording (stereo microphone) as well as playing mp3s. I am very choosy and after a lot of research in internet I found this. I am so happy to chose this one, all you need, you can find in this product. It has an excellent quality in sound and very easy to use. Being rechargeable by USB is a perfect idea, because always I forget to charge my devices when I'm at home. All in all, perfect, reliable, long life battery, handy, and chic.

Buy Sony ICD-UX512BLK Digital Flash Voice Recorder Now

"Voice recorder" is too modest a description This is a very good music recorder. Every musician should have one of these knocking around in their pocket at all times! It's well-made, sounds excellent, and most importantly it's tinier than a cellphone. It's not a Zoom H4N, but in one very important aspect, it's far superior: This is the recorder you'll always have with you when you need it.

I'm impressed by Sony's engineering cleverness. They thoroughly refined this design over the years, and it shows: It's a classic the easiest recorder I've ever used. The pop-out USB seemed like a gimmick at first glance, but I find it surprisingly handy. In essence, it's a USB thumb drive with (good) stereo mics and a (crappy) speaker built in. Pop it into any computer, and a folder of mp3's or wavs smiles back at me. Also, it charges while plugged in, so I might never need to fuss with changing the single AAA (!) rechargeable battery.

Amazon's description contains a couple of errors: First, as I mentioned above, this runs on one AAA; not two. Second: It will not record a 320kbps mp3 it only goes up to 192; but if that's a deal breaker, consider seeking help for your fetish. It will record uncompressed wav files (yes, with a .wav extension). Sony cluelessly calls it "LPCM" but don't worry.

I do wish it would record in 24 bits; it only does 16-bit. I also wish it had a lower mic sensitivity setting; I leave it in the "Low" setting at all times. "Medium" or "High" would really only be useful for lectures etc. In the "Low" setting, a loud band is still apt to trigger the (not very musical-sounding) analog limiter. So if you're a rocker who needs to record mostly band practices or shows, you might want to plunk down the extra $$ for a Zoom or Tascam. But for the money, you cannot go wrong with this one. Consider if you actually need the features of a bigger and more expensive recorder, because the relatively tiny size of this guy is without a doubt the most valuable feature of all.

I love love love it. I have it with me wherever I go. I'll never lose a musical idea again!

Read Best Reviews of Sony ICD-UX512BLK Digital Flash Voice Recorder Here

I bought this to replace my Olympus VN-7000. I wanted a digital voice recorder that had a USB DIRECT connection to transfer audio recordings to my laptop and while connected would recharge. Well, this does that and SO much more. At first, I was a bit disappointed in its appearance. It was smaller and lighter than what I was used to and it just felt cheap in my hand--looks great but I guess I was judging it by how light it was and thought that its weight meant it couldn't do much. Boy was I wrong--it's such a handy little thing!

My purchase came with headphones, a USB cable (in case you don't want to or can't connect recorder directly to your laptop, the cable acts as an intermediary connection), rechargeable battery and instruction manual. It has a slot for a memory card too but mine didn't come with the actual memory card. I haven't played with it too much since I only use it for recording classroom lectures, but some little features that I like worth naming are: recharges while connected to my laptop, labeling my folders and audio files, flexibility of moving audio files around, add/delete folders, listen to mp3s, transfer mp3s from PC to recorder, and when erasing audio it plays it for you to make sure you are deleting the correct file--as soon as you know it's the file you want to delete you can delete away. The manual says it does a ton of other things but I haven't gotten a chance to explore those yet.

I didn't give it the full five stars only because the playback sound on its speakers is low. I use it to study so while listening to lectures out loud I noticed that--even though the recording was done while sitting at the front of the class with the mic set on high and I'm in absolute silence in my room when playing it back--even at full volume the sound is low; my Olympus was definitely louder. However, when I listened to the audio on my PC or directly from the recorder WITH the headphones the sound was great--loud and clear. I don't even have to turn the volume up too far in those cases.

Also, My Olympus wasn't stereo so when I would use headphones with it I would only hear it in one ear--not the case with this recorder. Since it's stereo you can hear it in both ears. Oh! And another minor annoyance: I don't like the fact that you have to hold down the power button for about 3 seconds to turn it off--I would've liked better to just quickly press and release the button and have it turn off. Another dislike is that while recording it doesn't display mic strength. Anyway, these dislikes probably have more to do with what I was used to with my old recorder.

In summary, this is a fabulous purchase and I'm LOVING it!

Revision: Forgot to mention that I hate that it doesn't come with a case but it does come with software (which I haven't gotten a chance to install and use).

Want Sony ICD-UX512BLK Digital Flash Voice Recorder Discount?

I record interviews and speeches with this little guy and I am thrilled with the quality. No need to complement the built-in mics with an external one, because the built-in mics pic up everything you want. Easy to use, easy to place unobtrusively on the table or desk, unlike some of the more expensive ones with big intimidating mic "horns" sticking out.

The handling of files and folders on this is also convenient. Pop out the USB plug (which is built right into the unit) pop it into your computer and up pops the friendly window asking what you want to do. You can play, transfer, etc.

I haven't explored all of the many other things this recorder can do. I just know that I set the mic on the strongest setting, laid the unit on the back of a seat in front of me and recorded a rather soft-spoken speaker with clarity and volume that impressed me immediately upon playback.

As for those who say the internal speaker leaves much to be desired, I'm really not sure what they were expecting in a unit this size. The speaker does okay for personal listening with the unit held or laying close to your ear, or on max volume and a strong recording you can even lay it on the table. The unit comes with a set of earbud phones for noisier environments. Hard to ask for more in such beautifully functional recorder that goes anywhere.

Zmodo ZMD-DC-SBN6 16CH H.264 Real-time Security Surveillance DVR with Internet & Smartphone Monitor

I've had two 8 channel Zmodo DVR's (one was returned due to bad channel inputs), and two 16 channel Zmodo DVR's. Lets just say I have pretty good experience with this company's CCTV equipment.

I have 24 cameras installed in and around my home connected to 16 and 8 channel Zmodo DVRs. My friends and family think I am crazy, or a pervert, or both. I don't care.

I can view my cameras from my Android based tablet and phone, both using "IP Cam View Pro" the absolute BEST app for viewing Zmodo DVR's. Contact me if you need help setting up this app with your DVR. I can also help with your router and port forwarding if you need it.

I do love these DVR's even though the directions are written by an idiot, and I say this strongly because Zmodo can pay someone with decent english skills to re-write the manuals so that they make sense. When you take your DVR out of the box. Take the manual and CD and throw them away. They're useless.

Make sure you set the "maintain" feature to be enabled for a daily reboot. Without this, they will eventually stop responding via network (browser or your phone).

Each DVR I have uses a different active-x Internet exploder based program to view the channels. They all suck. But what they do nicely is show you the video. It's not HD, but we don't need HD to see when the UPS driver is coming down the drive, or your buddies are throwing cigarette butts in your yard.

This is OT, but before throwing out the camera that gets really blurry (and it will), take it completely apart and unscrew the lens from the circuit board and clean. These may work outdoors, but they're not sealed in anyway. They let moisture in and get dirty relatively quick. Oh, and the IR LED's can go bad, or something that triggers them goes bad. Overall, I've had decent luck with the cameras, and for $65 you can get 4 new cameras, each coming with 60' of cable, mounts, and the power adapter.

There is other software that Zmodo "says" works with their DVR(s), but I have done nothing but wasted time installing it and uninstalling it after trying different things they suggest.

Bottom line, they are pretty good for how cheap they're priced at. I have 4 out of 32 cameras die or piss me off enough to get slammed on the ground. I had one 8 channel DVR get RMA'd due to bad inputs. And their top of the line 16 channel DVR with 16 audio inputs and all the bells and whistles, it's network connection would die frequently and stop responding. It would require a reboot to work again. Actually, I've had many network issues with the DVR's that use the same active-x software.

Getting the videos off the DVR's is a painfull process. I have one DVR where the .264 files that it saves is skewed out of aspect. The resolution of the videos you get are 700x200 instead of something that's 4:3 aspect.

Zmodo's support crew is very friendly, but they don't have a problem telling you DVR you bought from them isn't covered by warranty.

I ordered one of these 16 channel dvrs without hard drive. It came quickly and in one piece but when everything is up and running the dvr decides to record constantly instead of recording by motion like I set and saved it. I go through the process again and the same thing happens. Also I haven't been able go online and view my cameras. I'm hoping there is a software upgrade to fix the issue.

Buy Zmodo ZMD-DC-SBN6 16CH H.264 Real-time Security Surveillance DVR with Internet & Smartphone Monitor Now

For the price, this DVR is amazing. I had to replaced my pc base dvr card with this because I was happy with the results. Will surely recommend this product. Remember you will need a hard drive. My item was shipped fast but the package was missing the housing screws which I am still waiting for the seller service. So far so Good!

Read Best Reviews of Zmodo ZMD-DC-SBN6 16CH H.264 Real-time Security Surveillance DVR with Internet & Smartphone Monitor Here

Wow! What a great product! I installed a 1TB SATA HD into the DVR very easily. I turned on the DVR and it was surprisingly quiet. All video images came up very quickly. The controls and remote are all very easy to use. The Zmodo tech support staff were very friendly. If you want your surveillance system set up quickly and at a good cost, this is a must buy!

Want Zmodo ZMD-DC-SBN6 16CH H.264 Real-time Security Surveillance DVR with Internet & Smartphone Monitor Discount?

Records in CIF can't get it to record in D1. Otherwise all is good. This is a good system for the money.

Creative Labs Zen Sleek Photo Digital Media Player (White/Silver)

• 20GB storage
• 1.7-inch OLED screen with 262,144 colors
• FM tuner
• Voice recorder
• Syncs with Outlook for transfers

I got my Zen Sleek Photo about a month ago. After continuous use (seriously) I have to say Creative did great by this one. I purchased a refurbished unit.

So far, I have not had more than 1 issue with it. The only issue being that at 192kbps WMA (Napster to go) my battery life ia about half of the rated 19 hours.

But...since I work on a computer and have open USB slots, that's never a real issue.

Pros:

Sound Quality Set your EQ, turn off the bass boost and you'll get great results

20 GB of storage

FM Tuner with recording

Picture viewer (included software automatically resizes pictures for optimal storage)

Hybrid controls (Touch and tactile) this one makes it easy for driving. Set to random all and skip as needed.

Customizable menus only what you want or need

Cost-Current day price for a refurb with 12 month warranty from Creative. I only paid 70 bucks!!

Cons:

No video

No slideshow while playing music

Battery life at 192kbps with EQ on drops quite a bit (Still about 9-10 hours)

No removable, user replaceable battery

Slightly heafty (but I particularly like the feel/weight)

For those small cons, I couldn't be happier.

I use my cell phone for videos and games so video isn't a need.

The music with slideshow has never been a deal killer, but would be nice.

Overall, a great player for a great price.

Buy Creative Labs Zen Sleek Photo Digital Media Player (White/Silver) Now

I just bought this 3 weeks ago, but for the time I have used it has succesfully fullfilled my expectatives. For the price it's awesome the things that it has, mic, radio, photos and the best of all: 20 Gb for mp3! the ipod nano cost the same as this one, but it's only 4GB, I don't know why creative hasn't gone to the charts of popularity with this great price.

You better buy this one, 'cause the ipod and the new generation of ipods will sell you the music and it's gonna be way to expensive to hear music.

Read Best Reviews of Creative Labs Zen Sleek Photo Digital Media Player (White/Silver) Here

I got my Sleek Photo a few weeks ago. I've had mp3 players before, but never used them as much as I use this one. I think the key is the interface. It took about a day to get used to, but now I can browse through a few hundred CD's with ease.

The only features I wish it had would be a user replaceable battery and a little less weight.

It has a proprietary connector, but it didn't take more than 5 minutes to find a spare sync/charge cable online.

A great player at a great price.

Want Creative Labs Zen Sleek Photo Digital Media Player (White/Silver) Discount?

I've had this MP3 player for a good while.... Got it new for over $200 dollars and after watching the market for almost two years I realize what a bad deal that was. I suppose it is worth the $129 price. My main problems with it were the following:

1. small screen. The screen boasts a ton of colors, but the screen is small and rather old looking.

2. horrible battery. they say it is a 19 hour battery, but nay. after about six months it's down to ten and after a year and a half... It won't last five hours. no joke.

3. Buggs up.... alot. About every month or two you will need to restart it because it freezes up. It then takes over ten minutes to 're-build library'. whatever that means. You also can't view photos at the same time as playing music... expect the music to stop when you touch the photo button. While on the subject of photos, it pauses waaaay too much when viewing photos. expect to take anywhere between a minute and ten to view ten photos.

And I will add that the screen is a magnet for dust. After having mine for two years it gets increasingly bad... I can barely make out the screen. with any light coming in it's invisible, but in the dark or if you shade it with your hand, it is rather acceptable.

4. Not very pretty. It's smaller than the Zune and iPod but rather clunky, box-like structure.

Overall, please don't get this. It's outdated. I wouldn't suggest an iPod either since it is, from my experience, a gift suited for preteen girls and people who are not into music that much, if you know what I mean.

I am most likely getting the Zune next, after some research it seems the best. Not only is the screen beautiful and large, It isn't nearly as big and clunky as it looks (I've handled one, trust me). It also plays video in a more widescreen format unlike the medium size screen of the iPod. The siliconized rubber on the outer edge is a nice touch.

If you're into heavy (for it's size), buggy (undeniably, and may I add customer support for anything is HORRIBLE), brake-in-a-week-earphones (buy some skullcandy) type of MP3 player this is for you. It was great in the beginning, but the player wears out fast. Kind of sad.

I absolutely love my Zen Sleek Photo. This is by far the best mp3 player that I have ever had. My Zen is 100% better than a IPOD.... I am very happy with my purchase..... I would recommend this MP3 player to everybody.

Ultimate Wireless Dos/linux/macmsd/pwr/95/98/w2k/wme/nt Grandtech

You would think this would be a good thing. Hook up a box to go between your computer and monitor/speakers, and it wirelessly sends the signal to a receiver hooked up to your computer. But it's not that simple. The glowing reviews you see here were either written by employees of Grandtec, or by people with better luck than me.

First of all, there is a nice passthrough cable for your monitor. One end hooks up to the transmitter, and the other end hooks up to your video card, but you can also hook up your monitor to it, hence the term passthrough. However, having this installed makes your screen blurry, even when the transmitter is off. Second, there is no passthrough for your speakers. You have to reroute your sound to the unit; you cannot hook speakers up. I have an amp hooked up to my soundcard, so I merely hooked the GWB-4000 up through the headphone jack of my amp, so I got the passthrough anyway.

So I got it hooked up on both ends. The first problem I ran into was I got no video. The booklet says it supports 1280x1024. This is a lie. So I went down to 1024x768. I only saw the upper/left 75% of the screen, and that's in zoom-out mode. I had to go down to 800x600 to get it to display right. I can't work in 800x600 with everything blurry! And it worked, but only just barely. There were squiggly vertical lines dancing around the screen, as if the transmission wasn't clear. The transmitter and receiver were 50 feet away, around a corner. The unit operates on 2.4GHz. So does my cordless phone, and the range is much greater than that. I have no doubt the signal was fine. I blame the unit for the errors, possibly for the same reason my screen was blurry.

Testing it, I first started the first Deus Ex game. The intro movie has forced subtitles, which did not display, telling me that I was only looking at the top. It sort of stretched it, and pushed the bottom down. When the game started, the tool belt (bottom of the screen) was gone. I loaded a Divx movie with Ac3 audio, and the sound was terribly quiet. The video resolution was fine, but the aforementioned squiggly lines made the movie unwatchable.

I do not mean to accuse the other reviewers of dishonesty, but this device is no good. I can only guess at why theirs worked. Perhaps a Mac does video differently, or maybe they used a PC with an ATI graphics card. I have a PC with an nVidia graphics card. But I don't think what the computer is running is at issue, I believe the GWB-4000 unit itself is faulty.

As always, Amazon is a brilliant place to shop, they had it here very quickly although I selected the free shipping, and the return process has so far been painless. UPS is picking it up tomorrow or the next day. This has not affected my solid faith in Amazon, only in this product. Potential buyers should note that Best Buy and CompUSA will not stock this item. I originally saw this item on CompUSA's web site. I should have been warned when I learned they would not stock it in their retail stores, only the web site. I am, however, glad I purchased it from Amazon.com and not CompUSA.com.

Bottom line: Avoid it like the plague.

I bought this piece of hardware because it was the only wireless solution that I could find. Basically I purchased it so that I could watch AVI files that I downloaded to my computer without having to convert them to a VCD. For this application the device went off without a hitch. The video quality is phenomenal on the TV end as is the audio. The range of the device is also phenomenal and much better than I expected. However, be sure to lower the resoultion on your monitor display to 800X600 so that you can view the entire screen (the instruction manual says 1024x768 but I found this to be untrue).

With any piece of hardware there is always something you wish they had done better, and for this product it is the way it connects up to your system. The product comes with a pass through connector to attach to a standard SVGA port. While the cable works and the video that displays on the tv is perfect, it blurs and distorts the monitor end a little. If you expect your display to be perfect on your monitor you'll have to look for an alternate options of connecting up the device. Lucky for me my video card has a DVI and a VIVO port so I had no problems connecting the receiver to the RCA jack. Also be warned that if you wish to connect a RGB jack, SVIDEO jack, etc. to the reciver it will not be able to transmit this signal wirelessely so you'll have to connect them the old fashioned way.

Except for the issues stated above this is a great product and I highly reccomend it, I just wish they included a bit better cable.

Buy Ultimate Wireless Dos/linux/macmsd/pwr/95/98/w2k/wme/nt Grandtech Now

This product does not work very well. I installed it in two different houses, on three different computers, tried all the fine tuning options, chanels, and troubleshooting tips in the manual. And it never looked even close to good.

This device adds a good bit of static and interference to the video and audio. (yes, i unplugged my wireless router and cordless phones....) It even makes your monitor look fuzzy. At the advice of one of the other reviews I saw here, I even tried a different vga cable. The vga Y cable they include seems to increase the issues. With a different cable, its slightly better but not quite usable. If you plan to use your computer on the television (or just read documents), forget it. Text is so bulry its very hard to read.

If all you want to do is stream a movie to your tv... And you don't mind some static... then this might work for you.

Read Best Reviews of Ultimate Wireless Dos/linux/macmsd/pwr/95/98/w2k/wme/nt Grandtech Here

In case anyone is looking for an updated review, well, here you go. Purchased this in August 2004 and received it really quick. Installation was a little awkward but that is just because the photos in the user manual are in black and white and you are looking at half a dozen colored cables.

As mentioned in the manual, the colors, screen size, resolution etc are all set VERY high by manufacturing default so make sure you can view the TV from the transmitter when you first set it up so that you can adjust everything. Once I spent 5 minutes doing that, the picture was perfect. As mentioned in one of the other reviews, the sound is not transmitted unless your TV has the appropriate hookups. So make sure you have everything on the desired viewer or you could be out of luck. So far for videos though, it's worked exactly as I had hoped.

Want Ultimate Wireless Dos/linux/macmsd/pwr/95/98/w2k/wme/nt Grandtech Discount?

This product has the ability to transmit computer generated images wirelessly to a TV. For showing videos or slides to you freinds and family when they come over it works great. Did you ever notice how difficult it is for the whole family to stand around your computer monitor to see the pictures of your last vacation? This is the answer. Anything that displays on your computer monitor shows up on the television and your monitor simultaneously (the cords are included). Everything worked perfectly right out of the box. You have the option to add additional receivers. Naturally, the resolution is degraded for the television because it does not function with the high resolution generated from a computer, but when using for videos or digital images, there is not much of a loss. The system video is composite only and the audio is stereo and it uses the 2.4GHz Frequency, so it typically does not interfere with cordless phones running at 900MHz. All in all an excellent choice for the person who has videos or digital images and wants the option to watch them from a remote TV.

Save 37% Off

iview 2000STB 480i TV Tuner/Receiver -Black

• HD-ready, Integrated ATSC Tuner
• Enjoy over the air broadcasts in digital clarity
• Built-in QAM tuner
• Set Favorite Channels
• Integrated ATSC Tuner

Local over the air broadcasters went through the digital transition 2 years ago. At that time cable users didn't have to concern themselves with the digital transition. Now that the cable companies are going through their own digital transition, there is no denying it, all our old analog equipment needs to be equipped with a digital to analog adapter (DTA) to continue to be useful.

Most digital set top boxes were designed to meet the government standard for the coupons that were available in 2009. Those boxes only tune in Over The Air signals (OTA). Cable signals are sent in a different format. Digital cable signals are sent in either clear QAM or scrambled QAM. Digital OTA signals are sent in ASTC format. This converter is capable of receiving CLEAR QAM and ATSC signals. Finding a box that does both QAM and ATSC is tricky. There isn't a lot of call for QAM/ATSC tuners since after converting to digital most cable providers scramble everything they legally can. This means that most cable providers only send local channels in clear QAM.

My provider,WOW, was different. My provider sends basic cable (65 channels) in CLEAR QAM, so you don't need to use a box for basic standard definition cable, if you have digital equipment. In my search I found that most QAM/ATSC tuners are designed for use with a Home Theater PC and don't have output options for older TVs. I was looking for something that would output Analog RF (channel 3/4) and composite line out . Price was a big issue since some of the ATSC/QAM tuners were more expensive than buying new digital TVs and I could rent an extra DTA for a mere $2 a month. I decided to purchase the iview-2000STB instead of renting another digital to analog adapter (DTA). In two years the iview will pay for itself in DTA rentals, and if I decide to drop cable, I can use this unit with my OTA antenna.

For purposes of writing this review, I briefly hooked this up for use with an antenna. The box quickly tuned in all the channels and seemed to work okay. I have other ATSC boxes, and this one is not nearly as good, but then, this one cost half as much and does QAM which the other ATSC boxes can't decode.

The cable installation was very time consuming. Any digital tuner takes up to 30 minutes to scan the digital cable channels, and this one is no exception. This unit has trouble finding all my QAM channels. Each time I scanned I had different results. I had to go through this scanning procedure 3 times before I got all the channels I was interested in. Each time I scanned, some channels were added and others were lost. It was very frustrating. I'm still missing a few channels that I should be receiving. Once I got all the channels I was interested in, I stopped scanning for fear that I'd end up losing the desirable channels in the process of trying to get a complete list. I've had minor changes in my cable system lineup about every 45 days, and each time I have to go through this painful process.

A really nice feature, this unit does save both your ATSC and your QAM settings so you can switch from one to the other with the press of a button. If you switch between both kinds of hookups this is very helpful.

Once up and running the picture quality on the SD channels was noticeably better than the picture from the cable company DTA, especially when using the line out features. There are many channels available to digital equipment that were not available through the DTA, including the local HD channels. Unfortunately, this box has trouble with those QAM HD signals. The QAM HD channels pixelate every time there is any motion, so those channels are not watchable. This is really not much of an issue since for me since all the channels are also sent in standard definition and I'm working with 4:3 anyway, but if you had a 16:9 "HD ready" TV this might be a show stopper. I'm still happy to have the extra SD channels.

Many QAM tuners use raw cable numbers instead of the aliases sent by the cable company. This unit uses the aliases, so the cable numbers make sense. What this means is that for example USA is channel 13 on the cable box, and 60.1 in the raw numbering. My company is sending 13 as the alias, and for a while they were sending 60_13 as the alias, but its really transmitted on 60.1. It can get really confusing. The good news is if the company uses good aliases the channel numbers will be the 3 digit numbers used by the cable company, instead of 5 digit decimal numbers!

Once a channel has been tuned in, you can go in through the menu system and set the skip for channels you don't want to see when cycling using the channel+ and channelbuttons. Try that with a cable supplied DTA! You can also assign channels to a favorites list for tuning ease. Another tuning feature is the "prog" option. The prog option lets you page through the channel list. The list includes both the channel number and the identifying info letters, like NBC, ABC, WTVS.... Very helpful if you need to tune in ESPN, or the SPEED channel and don't know the number.

This unit has closed captioning, so if your older TV doesn't have CC, this unit will supply it. There is a menu entry with adjustments you can make to the CC appearance.

The remote control was small and crowded and has an odd layout. The unit doesn't always respond to signals from the remote. It is a problem with the remote, not the unit itself. The unit responds perfectly to my universal remote. The unit ships without the 2 AAA batteries needed to operate the remote.

The screen prompts were unclear. Little things like figuring out how to directly enter a channel were a challenge. I had to read the 23 page manual to figure out how to do things with the remote.

The unit boasts of an electronic programming guide (EPG), but they should probably not even mention it at all. It is a terrible excuse for an EPG. Of course I have Dish Network and Echostar ASTC adapters, so any other EPG is going to pale in comparison. I was curious and hoping that this unit would give me some info on the cable side, but my provider doesn't send any program guide information, so the EPG doesn't work with my cable.

Pros

Price, the price on this unit is approximately the cost of a 2 year rental of a cable company DTA. The price was also about 1/2 to 1/4th the price of any other qam/atsc tuner that I could find.

Handles clear QAM (unencrypted digital cable channels) as well as ATSC (over the air digital)

Has an on/off and ch+/chbuttons on the front of the unit (see picture I submitted) which is great because remote is so small its easily lost.

output options are good for older analog equipment. I found that most ATSC/QAM tuners are geared more towards PC use instead of for use with analog equipment and had output that was geared towards newer equipment.

outputs analog RF channel 3 or 4 output, just like a VCR, and has the ability to allow the RF to pass through untouched, I believe this is called loop through.

outputs composite AV (Yellow/Red/White connectors)

Stores both the OTA and QAM cable channel settings, so you can switch back and forth with the cable/air button without having to rescan.

Allows you to skip the channels you don't want. I sure wish the cable company DTA would do the same.

has a Favorite function

has the "prog" feature for tuning while paging through the list

Gets more local channels than the cable company rental DTA box, even when you ignore the HD channels that were found.

This unit does not use raw cable numbers

Better picture than the cable company DTA.

More output options than the cable company DTA

This unit has closed caption (CC) feature

Cons

remote is crowded and poorly laid out and unintuitive. (See the image I submitted.)

remote is unreliable

it takes a long time to change a channel. The screen goes blank for about 5 seconds.

it takes a long time to turn on, before you see the iview logo and longer still for the unit to actually start tuning.

it is tricky to get all your cable channels

poor excuse for an EPG (electronic program guide) for OTA.

pixelates when picking up the local QAM HD channels. It basically doesn't work on my High Definition clear QAM. ***

*** Edit my cable company changed some of the HD channels to a lower QAM channel number, and when they did those HD channels didn't pixelate anymore. so apparently this is an issue with the upper channel numbers. ***

Even though this was not a glowing review, I did buy a second unit, because this unit is definitely better than the cable DTA. I would have tried something different, but I couldn't find anything else that compared. I have very nice analog equipment that I am not ready to retire. This unit gave my analog equipment a new lease on life.

Please let me know if this was helpful to you.

Buy iview 2000STB 480i TV Tuner/Receiver -Black Now

I just bought and installed two of these. The main claim to fame for this box is that it decodes clear QAM on cable in addition to off-air ATSC. Most Digital to Analog converter boxes are off-air ATSC only.

pros:

-demodulates clear QAM

-picture quality is good

-RF and baseband outputs

-allows you to delete unwanted channels from the scan list

cons:

-poor remote control range, especially off-axis

-user interface for deleting unwanted channels is painful to use

-daylight savings feature doesn't work

-audio level on RF output is undermodulated (volume is very low, so hum is a problem)

-autoprogramming is very slow, about 20 minutes.

Read Best Reviews of iview 2000STB 480i TV Tuner/Receiver -Black Here

I needed an external tuner to use my tunerless dvd recorder with my new TV that already had a built-in tuner. This little gadget works great! I had to try the different settings (ch 3, ch 4 or loop through) to find the one that worked with my setup, but once I found it, setting the TV to ch 4 and setting the tuner to ch 4 (just like an old time VCR) and then using autoscan, it started picking up channels right away! I did have to scan a couple of times to find all the channels I wanted, but it only took about fifteen minutes each time. The only reason I didn't rate it a 5 is because the user guide that comes with the product is pretty useless. It doesn't explain things clearly. But using the guide that came with the TV and the dvd recorder, I was able to figure things out. The programming guide and the channel selection list that saves favorites and skips channels not visited are great features!

Want iview 2000STB 480i TV Tuner/Receiver -Black Discount?

I needed a cable box that could receive the unscrambled channels provided by my cable company Verizon Fios. Most of the low cost boxes out there could only handle over-the-air signals provided by an antenna. My quest was to find something that could not only process digital TV signals but the ones being sent along in the QAM format, used by Fios. This box did the trick. The footprint of the device is small and cheap looking and many have complained about the small size of the remote contol (which does not come with batteries). But this cable tuner works just fine.

Not all the instructions are clear and one has to do a little experimentation but this unit goes for less than $ 35. For me, it is a better alternative than buying a new TV with a built-in QAM tuner or renting another box from the cable company.

First, I simply did not have the problems other people encountered -straight out of the box, this device has worked as expected. (Actually, it's been better than expected, since I was anticipating the problems others wrote about.)

For my purposes -being able to get my *clear QAM* cable-TV signal into a large monitor with no built-in tuner -this works perfectly. I pulled it out of the box, popped the batteries (2 AAA, purchased separately) into the remote, and was watching TV on my monitor within a half-hour. Previously, I had to do all this through my computer in a very annoying set-up.

I happen to know, from a previous experience mapping all of the digital channels coming through my cable, that this device correctly pulled all of those channels. Quality wise, they all looked about as good as could be expected. Unlike some reviewers, I did pull in HD channels along with the standard-definition channels.

PROS: Small simple box, small simple remote; easy to set up; excellent price (I compared many others); worked perfectly for my situation; ability to program channels to eliminate those you don't watch; easy ability to switch between cable and antenna if you have both coming in

CONS: Changing channels is slow -delay of about 2 seconds each time; for my signal, the channels came in without alias, meaning channel 96 is actually 128-1388, which is obviously annoying to directly go to... someone wrote this can be corrected, but maybe this depends on the cable provider's signal; the online channel guide may or may not work, but this is due to your cable signal, not this device; no ability to store pulled channels if you re-scan

So, yep, very happy with this puppy. I've been trying to solve this situation for a while, and this does it. Just a few important things to know as you consider:

1. "Pulling channels" is a slow and inconsistent process. Mine took about 15-20 minutes and pulled 67 channels. Though I got all available, I know other reviewers are correct that it can be hit or miss.

2. As far as cable is concerned, you will ONLY pull in clear-QAM (unscrambled) digital channels -you will not pull in any analog channels. This is important to know, because my cable signal is actually carrying both, and the channels are not all the same. In other words, if I plug my cable into an old analog TV, I get a different set of channels... some are the same as the digital set coming through this device, but most are not. (Some digital channels are not available in analog and vice-versa.) So, if you've been watching cable on an analog TV and switch to this device, just know that you MAY discover a whole different set of channels coming in, and that may be good (more, better channels) or bad (fewer, worse channels). Of course, you can always set up a splitter, with cable going into your analog TV and also into this device.

3. What I wrote above, that your signal may not generate convenient channel numbers to dial up. Also, some may not be identified. So, you'll be going through them, seeing all these weird channels and may not even know what they are (if an onscreen programming guide isn't provided by your cable company).

4. Again, changing channels is not fast. This is not uncommon with digital, apparently, as I've had the same problem with Cox and DirecTV. The delay is only about two seconds between channels, but that may be a big deal for you.

5. You'll need to buy batteries for the remote -2 x AAA.

6. Your only output is AV (the red, white, and yellow connections) or RF (coax). Your only input is RF (coax).

I don't have an antenna, so I can't comment on this device being used that way.

I'd give this 4.5 stars if I could -the half-star deduction only because the box can't store channels you've already scanned, if you want or need to re-scan.

Sony DCRTRV510 Handycam Digital Camcorder

I'm very pleased with the 510. I bought the 12 hour mother-of-all-batteries and took the camera to Papua New Guinea where I took the equivalent of about 3000 still photographs on 3 digital hi-8 cassettes. I also took a lot of straight video footage from which I was able to extract static images of rather good quality, depending on the amount of motion artifact. My one complaint is that in low light the image tends to get a bit grainy...I haven't figured out how to solve this problem. Let me know if you do.

I had wanted the latest in didgital camcorder technology but the high cost of the Mini DV tapes made me consider SONY's Digital 8 format. I got my DCR TRV 510 shortly after becoming a new dad, after much debate between the 510 and the lower 310 which will save you $$ but the 310 lacks the color viewfinder, slightly bigger LCD monitor, 2MB of internal memory for digital stills, Sony's photo managing software for your PC and the serial port PC hookup. The 510 is my 1st camcorder so I don't have any prior camcorder experience to do any relative comparisons. This camcorder does a very decent job of making home videos and photo stills. The best results are from outdoors in good daylight, otherwise in other conditions such as lowlight indoors the video and stillshots can be slightly grainy. For some reason, SONY didn't include any titling function which they do for their Reg. 8 and Hi 8 models. Also didn't notice the difference between the reg. video and S video hookup to my TV nor between the cheaper reg. 8 and Hi 8 tape. The included battery is not sufficient for heavy duty use, the 4 hour one should be adequate, anything longer will just add to the weight. Very satisfied with my decision to get the 510, overall a very impressive handycam which I anticipate to take home videos and to capture meorable moments in my son's growth.

Buy Sony DCRTRV510 Handycam Digital Camcorder Now

Forget the other cameras. TRV-310 and the TRV-510 are the best ones for today... by far.

Don't loose your time looking for other options because no other portable camcorder (in this category) can provide the features and the quality of these cameras. I've played with my TRV-310 for about 10 days and I am really impressive with this camera. This is my fifth camcorder (all 8MM and HI-8) that I have used and this the best camera that I have seen.

Some comments...

The LCD screen on the 310 is amazing. Certainly the best LCD that I have seen in my life. It is clear, bright, sharp and big... 3.5 inches. The color is truer. It is a real pleasure to play my videotapes in any place with no connection with TVs. This is one of the most important features of this camera and you have to consider that in your analysis. You will use it a lot.

The 20X optical zoom is enough and works fine (much better than my old hi-8 camera).

The PAUSEs are terrific. It is impossible to avoid the PAUSE key. Try to press the SLOW key and you will get a limpid and crystalline image.

I have lots of videos recorded on 8 and hi-8 format. The 310 is capable to play black perfectly any videotape on these formats. This camera is the right choice for everyone that have 8 and hi-8 tapes. Don't loose your time thinking to buy a mini-DV camcorder, you will have much more flexibility using the digital camera that supports your old tapes, with the same quality and flexibility. By the way, the hi-8 tapes are cheaper than the mini-DV tapes.

I didn't see notable difference between the regular video and S video hookups to my TV.

The included battery in not sufficient and an additional battery is very important.

The infrared nightshot works very fine (do you think that is it really important ? ).

The 16:9 aspect ratio feature is wonderful At the beginning you don't give so much attention on that, but when you start to use you will love this alternative. If you have a 16:9 aspect ratio television this feature will be fantastic for you. If you are considering to buy this kind of TV (to see your DVDs) this can be a considerable feature to consider.

One of the big things and rarely I see comments is the SOUND. The PCM System is fantastic. I connect the camcorder to my receiver system and I was surprised with the quality, clear and powerful sound. There is a huge difference between this PCM AUDIO SYSTEM and the audio system in my old hi-8 camera. Normally, when we study to buy a camcorder we don't invest so much time analyzing the audio, we keep focus on the video system and don't give importance to the audio. I am sure that the AUDIO SYSTEM of this digital camera will surprise you positively. You will feel the big difference if you connect the camera to a pro-logic Dolby surround sound receiver or a digital receiver. If you have a home theater system with Adobe Digital 5:1... THE BAD THING: The missing feature on the 310 is audio dubbing. For this kind of camera this feature will be important and convenient. I would like to record narration or add a sound track on the camera after I've recorded the video. Based on the manual I can do this editing the video on my PC, but until now I didn't try it. So, I really don't know if it will work well... GRAINY VIDEO: I read some comments about to make sure you have plenty of light to avoid a slightly grainy on the video. This is true but not at all. The illumination is not a bid deal... Don't make your decision using this comment as important ! In most of the 95% of the time you will be recording with enough light to make a brilliant and wonderful video.... So, the other 5% of the time you can face poor light and you will have a little bit grainy in your video... And so what ? The important here is that other cameras have the same problem, so it is not a decisive factor for buyers... Don't waste time with these comments...

Finally... I made a very deep analysis comparing the TRV-510 and TRV-310, the 310 is probably the good choice because it has the most advanced features with less cost. Repeating a comment that I saw below... The 310 is LIGHT YEARS beyond the other ones...

Read Best Reviews of Sony DCRTRV510 Handycam Digital Camcorder Here

I have had my TRV-510 now for about 2 1/2 months and have recorded mostly football and sports tapes. The ability to get stills with the camera either at once or while rewiewing the tape is a super benefit. I can't imaging enjoying a camera more and if I had bought a DVD format would have missed out on playing my old 8mm tapes. I use the serial port hook-up to my computer every week to get action stills from the games.

Want Sony DCRTRV510 Handycam Digital Camcorder Discount?

I've had the Sony DCR-TRV-510 for about three months now. It's been a lot of fun to use and learn. Straight out of the box, charge up the battery, slip in a tape and you're ready to record. With a little practice and skimming of the manual, you can create some perfectly acceptable and fun still (digital) pictures. On the video front, the camera is exceptionally easy to learn and use. It takes standard 8mm video tapes cheaper and more readily available than mini-DV tapes. Zoom lens is excellent although once you pass the optical zoom range and go into the digital zoom, you will likely notice the "pixilation" (you can turn the digital zoom off.) Tapes can be viewed on the flip out screen excellent image. One feature I especially like is the one that lets you find the end of the last video recording -no matter where you stop on a tape, hit this button and it takes you to where you stopped recording. Low light capability is outstanding even without using the Night Light feature. Still pictures are fun. Easy to do once you've mastered the technique. The picture is only 640 x 480 so it is really only suitable for web stuff or 2 x 3 or 4 x 3 snap shots. Images may be downloaded to your computer using the enclosed serial link or a FireWire interface if you have one. Serial link may be slow but it works just fine for me. I took a couple hundred stills (and 2 hours of video) while on a 10 day cruise and they were fine. Camera can only hold about 20 still pixs internally (in the fine mode) so I would copy them from the internal memory to a separate video tape I decided to use for still pictures only. Once on your computer, you can play with them to your heart's content. Consider buying a second bigger battery. I bought the 8 hour battery a little extra weight but lots of extra time. I also bought the IR link for the TV. Saves having to hook up wires to the back of the TV/-510 every time you want to view a tape. It works flawlessly. And get a good camera bag.

Mini Spy Surveillance Infrared DVR Color Audio Video Camera Recorder

Does everything it says it does.

Accurately picks up text written on a sheet of paper.

Software is surprisingly polished and easy to use.

Quick start guide and documentation is detailed and well-written. Not Chinese to English transcribed like some product documentation.

One major flaw I experienced was the clip that is used to attach the receiver to a sheet of paper is cheap and is easy to break off, which renders the receiver almost useless (the receiver needs to be firmly attached to a fixed point and not moved in order to pick up written text accurately). Be VERY gentle with it or you'll have to find a way to superglue it back on to the receiver.

i.Trek ME-CD Sticky Dash mount for digital camera Flip Sony Kodak Toshiba Video Recorder

• Easily mounts your camera or dgital video camera on dashboard of your car
• Ball joint for easy adjustment
• 2.5" x 2" flexible base which accommodates to curved dash
• No tools needed but Semi-permanent installation
• Convert your digital camera or video camera into a car DVR

Amazingly simple product, easy to use, and fits any camera with the 1/4" tripod hole (which is like 99% of all consumer cameras not just the ones listed)

The sticky dash mount is not adhesive like I thought, its actually like a static cling that will hold it from sliding horizontally, but will hold nothing vertically.

I removed the static cling backing and replaced it with some 3M Outdoor Mounting Tape which can hold up to 5 pounds in any position. The base is semi-flexible so it can be mounted to concave or convex surfaces like helmets, or the inside of a mixing bowl, and of course flat surfaces.

Buy i.Trek ME-CD Sticky Dash mount for digital camera Flip Sony Kodak Toshiba Video Recorder Now

After sticking and removing several time the sticky is unable to stick...ended up having to double face tape it in place. Do not waste money on buying this...

ME-CD: Sticky Dash mount for digital camera Flip Sony Kodak Toshiba Video Recorder

Read Best Reviews of i.Trek ME-CD Sticky Dash mount for digital camera Flip Sony Kodak Toshiba Video Recorder Here

It does what you need it to do, that is, hold your hand held handycam. The drawback though is that the sticky surface doesn't always stick. I have been attempting to use this with a GPS dashboard hold which has a smooth plastic bottom and even then there are issues with it remaining in place. The "Sticky Dash mount" by itself won't stay on the dashboard. If that one problem could be fixed then I would enjoy it more.

Want i.Trek ME-CD Sticky Dash mount for digital camera Flip Sony Kodak Toshiba Video Recorder Discount?

Despite what the name implies, this is just a generic item that will work with any device with a standard tripod mount. It is surprisingly stable, and both my m4/3 camera and DSLR balanced on it just fine. The bottom plate is flexible, and has a friction pad on the bottom. Though this will help it not slide around, it is not sufficient on its own to keep a camera safe and pointed in the right direction, especially not in a moving car! You will want to tape it down, or do something along those lines to make it steady.

The lock ring on the bottom gets very tight, which is good, since I have not had it slip; the ball joint stays very solid and keeps your camera pointed where you set it. The plastic seems nice and durable, and based on the image here, what you are likely expecting is what you get.

Exactly what I needed to mount my flip cam and record while driving. It could also be used by a vlogger, etc.

Mel-8704R K2 EMF Meters EVP Digital Voice Recorder New

• Custom Dual Display Correlates EMF & Temperature Cold Spots Simultaneously
• Bright Custom "Nightview" Display with On/Off Button
• K2 With Push On/ Push Off Switch
• 1GB Integrated Flash Memory Provides Up to 270 Hours Of Recording Time
• USB Port For Fast File Transfers

I can't rate the K2 meter as it was not shipped, the MEL meter was the highlight of the order it worked fine and it was easy to use, nice large display and backlight. The Colby voice recorder was extremely hard to set up, and when it was finally set up it crashed and wouldn't turn on, not sure if the set up problem was the due to an issue that caused the crash, I ended up buying everything seperately somewhere else, for not much more money, and returned the combo package. The seller review posted right after mine had the same issue with the K2 meter not being packed in the shipment. Customer service from Amazon and the seller were both unhelpful and unable to resolve the problem

Zmodo 8CH H.264 Security DVR Home Surveillance CCTV Camera System With 4 Bullet 4 Dome Sony CCD Sec

I installed this for my new shop. It has a great color view also great price for 8 cameras. I have a little problems for remote location access. So I gave a 3 stars but most of all I satisfied. I recommended this item if you are good to installed on the wall by yourself.

Save 13% Off

Indoor Wireless Fixed IP Camera with Night Vision

According to the specs, this camera is supposed to work with systems other than Alarm.com

Well GOOD LUCK WITH THAT.

About the ONLY thing I can do, is get it to see an IP address. I can't connect into that IP, can't access the camera and there IS NO DOCS on this camera besides "log into your alarm.com account"

This leads me to say that, you can't use this camera with ANYTHING but Alarm.com

This is by far one of the easiest cameras to set up and install. Actually has a good picture and i love watching my house and dogs when we are not home. Have two trying to buy two more.

Buy Indoor Wireless Fixed IP Camera with Night Vision Now

The monitoring security service I use, uses Alarm.com for their web and iPhone interfaces. Alarm.com does appear to be the best in that its better than others but no where near as good as it could be. There were a lot of setup issues. They didn't mention it needed to be plugged in to power so assumed it would work off of batteries like all the sensors. Also to setup you need an ethernet cable not provided unless you use a router with WPS. To note, a quick google search will show you WPS routers are HIGHLY insecure so this device should not promote WPS and should instead include an ethernet cable. The pictures do not show that unlike most corner motion sensors this one attached to a semi long pole that attaches to the wall that is white but the screws aren't white so doesn't look great. Next issue was my password wouldn't work because it was too secure. This device which only works with alarm.com has old software that doesn't let passwords with any characters, so if you have a complex password you may need to change it to something simpler. Which in my case meant changing the password on my router, then changing it on the two nests in my host, the 2 iPhones, the 1 iPod, the three Apple TVs, the tv receiver the wifi tv and the 2 iPads to all connect to the new password. It ended up being a major project. I told Alarm.com about the issues they said to tell my vendor which was SafeMart and they said they would tell Alarm.com but SafeMart was not helpful. They said the device has a backup battery (it does not). They (rep named Greg I think?) said they would look into my issues and get back the following day. Also that chat took about an hour since he would go quiet for about 7 minutes at a time and then come back since apparently they also answer phones and they take calls while on chat with customers and dont tell customers when they are on a call. It's been several months and no word from them in regards to that. After all that eventually got it installed and thought ok, they have issues but as long as it works now thats all that matters. Sadly no. The motion sensor does not appear to work. It is suppose to detect motion but in my several tests it only works if you are about 4 to 5 inches in front of the device. I asked support about this at SafeMart they didn't seem to think it even had a motion detector. I provided them links and showed them that it did and they were like oh.. hmm. And never got back to me. I figured since I knew more about the product than they did they wouldn't be of any help anyway and once again Alarm.com won't help since they say you have to go to your vendor. Everyonce in a while if I'm a couple feet a way and do jumping jacks it detects motion for a second. As for video quality, if you set it to the highest it is good quality for this price of a camera, but not great if you are use to looking at video on say a smart phone. The night vision looks good however, another big big bug is that is doesn't go on consistently. There is a setting to say whether it should turn on more often or less often, but regardless of the setting, sometimes its pitch black and it wont turn on, other times it works as expected, other times sporadic. If I'm at home and look at video through my iPhone (on our home wifi) the video is relatively close to live video, a second or two behind and doesn;t slow down our internet. However if I view the video through alarm.com at home it slows our internet down which is comcast's highest speed 100mbps to a snail pace. This seems to be a bug with their web interface. Also it uses Java so if you use up-to-date Chrome on a Mac for instance it won't work so you will have to use another browser. When viewing the videos from remote locations it's about a 7 second delay. About 4 out of 10 times it gives an error saying it can't connect to the camera. Sometimes restarting the app helps, sometimes unplugging and replugging the camera works. We have two of these and both are equally flaky. Also other than unplugging there is no way to have the camera turned off when your at home. Alarm.com already has geofencing meaning they know when your home or not, or they could simply have an option that says disable camera feed when the alarm isn't enabled but no such option and alarm.com says they dont have plans for this feature yet. The Green Led on the face of it can be turned off in the settings. Overall it's not reliable, and if you are using SafeMart they have little to no knowledge about it and will be off little to no help and Alarm.com won't listen to your complaints about bugs or security issues. That being said, for residential customers, alarm.com and safemart still is the best affordable option in comparison to others so unfortunately at the moment we are stuck using these cameras and software until Nest of another modern company creates a progressive alternative.

Read Best Reviews of Indoor Wireless Fixed IP Camera with Night Vision Here

Flip MinoHD Video Camera - Brushed Metal, 8 GB, 2 Hours (2nd Generation)

Update: Since my review the Flip Mino has been greatly improved. It now works and plugs in perfectly to my Mac and has stereo sound. For it's small size, that's a good thing.

Now, on to the original review:

If I'm going to spend more than a hundred bucks on an item or somewhere around there, I do extensive research first to know I got the best bang-for-the-buck and, consequently, dodge any potential future buyer's remorse.

I've realized that the time I spend doing my product comparisons is often time that others don't have so I may as well share what I can.

I'll start by saying that you'll see my "Verified Amazon Purchase" on the Flip HD Ultra Camcorder review because, obviously, that's the one I wound up buying and I'll share with you why. But what I like in a camcorder may not suit your own needs so I'll break it down and let you decide what's best for you via what I found out:

Here are the pocket camcorders I compared:

*Flip UltraHD (will be referred to as "F")

*Flip Mino HD 2nd generation (Will be referred to as "M")

*Creative Labs Vado HD 8 GB 2nd generation (Will be referred to as "CL")

*Kodak Zi6 Pocket HD (Will be referred to as "K")

*There are notes on the RCA Small Wonder at the bottom. Because that's not an HD camera, I didn't include it.

Why HD cameras only? Brighter colors and better images, wider images

HD SHOOTING TIME:

F: 120 minutes.

M: 120 minutes

CL:120 minutes

K: 25 minutes with batteries they included, 120 minutes if you buy an SD card

HOW CNET's editors rated the cameras:

F Excellent

M Excellent

CL Very Good

K Very Good

MEMORY:

F: 8 GB

M:8 GB

CL: 8 GB

K: internally only 30 MB recording space but it has 32 GB expandable SD/SDHC card slot. Because it comes with such small recording space you really need to buy an SD or SDHC card to maximize its potential, but the potential is really good and this will increase your ability to shoot longer.

SW 8GB

RESOLUTION:

All are 720p which is excellent, just one step below the top 1080p format.

MICROPHONE:

F: Stereo

M: Mono*

CL: Mono

K: Mono

SOUND:

F:Premier AAC audio. Best sound quality but still not great in winds

M:Good sound quality, not good in winds

CL:Poor sound quality; had issues with sound and picture not being in sync.

K:Poor sound quality

ZOOM:

F: 2x

M:2x

CL:2x

K: poor quality zoom on the one I tried but I still think it's 2x. It has a great macro focus for very close-up objects if, for example, you see a bumble bee and want to shoot it on a leaf a few inches away! Kinda cool.

CAMERA SIZE AND WEIGHT:

F: 4.3x2.2x1.2 4 oz

M: 3.9x2x0.6 3. 3 oz

CL: 3.9x3x0.6 3.5 oz

K: 5.5x2.5.0.9 5.6 oz

SHIPPING SIZE AND WEIGHT:

F: 6.2 x 3.1 x 3.1 inches ; 11.2 ounces

M: 2 x 0.7 x 3.9 inches ; 1 pound

CL: 3.3 x 7.9 x 6.3 inches ; 11.2 ounces

K: 4x 5x 2.5" 2.4 lbs

TECHNICAL DETAILS:

F: USB cable pops out of the back so you don't need to keep up with a separate cable. Comes with Flip Video rechargeable AA battery pack (recharges when connected to USB); also supported by standard AA batteries. Note: Some sets come with the HDMi mini included and others come with the rechargeable battery pack on Amazon. Looks like one or the other but of course if you need both you can buy the other.

M: USB cable pops out of the back on this one as well. Has child safe button to prevent accidental deletion of videos. Internal lithium ion battery recharges through built-in USB arm

CL: USB in camcorder. Included in box are HDMI cable (nice), USB extension cable,(nice)silicon skin (cool) & rechargeable battery.

K: Included in box are HD and AV cables and wrist strap and rechargeable batteries and battery charger. Has built in USB arm.

SPEED:

F: 30 frames per second.

M: 30 frames per second

CL: 30 frames per second

K: choice of 30 frames per second or 60 frames per second.

VIEWING SCREEN: All 2" except the Kodak was the largest at 2.4"

IMPORTANT NOTES:

F: Best low-light performance for the mini cameras (though not perfect at all) and least amount of blurring and dropped frames in my opinion. Best color. Only one with stereo sound. You can get an underwater case for this one! Though that may sound crazy for a Texan, we use the camera non-stop on vacations and even when we aren't IN the water, we are around the water...on boats, in the sand with sea mist, etc. Then we can dive in and record the fish. Comes preloaded with flipshare software...just plug in to computer and it pops up.

M: Colors don't appear as good on the Mino as the other cameras. Thinnest camera. Make sure you get the one that only comes in the color aluminum or brushed metal. If it comes in any other colors it is the 1st generation MinoHD and they improved upon that one in the newer models. Great audio. Better shooting in low light than most mini cameras. Camera comes preloaded with FlipShare software. Can get still images through flipshare software.

CL: Decent filming in low light but not nearly as good as the Ultra or Mino; Software is preloaded in camcorder.

K: This is the only camera that I compared without the built in image stabilizatin which corrects for shaky images. What appears to be metal in picture is actually a chrome colored plastic. That said, this had the largest viewing screen of all of them. 2.4" Very poor in low light and seemed to have far more shaking and blurring. It also takes still pictures but they are really really poor quality...same as a lesser-quality cell phone pictures but good in a pinch if you want a still shot and have no cell or camera I s'pose. Heaviest for a pocket camera. Software is not preloaded in camcorder but a cd comes with it.

And, finally, the reviews of the Flip from experts swayed me quite a bit:

Fast Company: "Flip Ultra HD is Pure Digital's "Best Pocket Camcorder Yet." 6-09

USA Today: "New Flip Ultra Video Cameras Might Flip Your Switch" 4-09

Business Week: How do you Invigorate a Recession? Look to i-phone, Flip, Kindle, and Zip Car For Answers

There were lootttts more I came across when researching the Flip Ultra HD but those are some of my favorites.

CONCLUSION: Clearest picture and sound was important to me, expert reviews that pointed to the Flip UltraHD as well and I liked the built in software and the case I can get to shoot underwater. It is the number one selling camcorder as well. So that was my personal decision-making process. However, keep in mind that if you need reading glasses none of that will matter if the 2" screen is too small for your viewing the shots easily for playback in which case you may wish to get the Kodak if that's important to you..

Also: No matter which one you get, you will probably want a mini tripod if you ever want to be in the shot yourself do don't forget those.

Also note: It's confusing because when these manufacturers make changes in the camcorders, they do not change the names on the new versions, nor do they change the names if it's an HD version or a non-HD version so be sure you look for the "HD" after the brand name and look for "2nd generation" or "newer version" on the Mino and Vado if you like one of those better so you don't get the older models.

Hope my obsessive comparing and contrasting for my own purchasing assistance helped you as well even if what you wanted in a camera was different from me. :-)

Note on the:

*RCA Small Wonder: Because some have asked about the RCA Small Wonder, It never made the final cut...it should be noted that the EZ201 Small Wonder IS NOT HIGH DEF, which, like a tv means the colors aren't as bright or as sharp (yes, it is noticeable which is why people want the HD camcorders.) The zoom lens is optical rather than digital and, on the Small Wonder you'll notice that for whatever reason this means it goes out of focus when you zoom. Even the experts rating this camera suggested walking foreward and backwards when wanting to zoom rather than using the Small Wonder's zoom because of the out-of-focus experience it causes, unfortunately. It is the same quality as a phone video: very grainy & pixelated and only meant for small screen format. It also doesn't have a pop-out usb port unlike the other cameras so you'll need to keep up with a usb cord to use it. And it only has a 90 day warranty. It also only has a mono mic rather than stereo. It is FAR below these cameras in its graininess and pixilation (it's not even a close race) but I thought it should be noted. It's just not of the same class in any way. BUT it's a great price if you don't want HD or want it for fun rather than quality; would be great for a teen or for maybe someone who wants it for documentaion...so it's noted.

*Update: According to Mino, the 2010s now have stereo mics on the Minos. However, a retest of the color and clarity has not improved.

This Flip MinoHD camcorder is amazing-the ideal thing for any family hoping to videotape the kids, friends, events, etc. First of all, it's completely idiot proof: when you get the box, there is absolutely no assembly required. Your first guess about which buttons are the power switch, record button, and USB connector release will be correct; great intuitive design. The device looks and feels great (as other reviewers have mentioned) and easily fits in your hand comfortably for long periods of time (unlike my blackberry). It turns on and off instantly (unlike my home computer or cell phone) so you don't have to wait long to start recording that precious, fleeting moment.

The screen is a bit larger than the previous Flip Mino, but that's not a big deal. Image quality is better than ever, and not too shaky/bouncy. The USB connector is about the same-still very convenient, easy to connect, and you don't have to go running to find any special USB connector cable (like my old digital camera). The audio is surprisingly good, picking up faint background sounds that I hadn't even noticed at the time of recording and picking up simultaneous music and voices, near and far, with great quality. The 2-hour battery life is more than I ever use, so it's great, but I figure people who are videotaping entire concerts or watching grass grow might complain. Honestly I haven't made use of the HD resolution, but I'm sure that will be fantastic when I start making my own rainforest nature shows. In the meantime, the HD quality is better than anything I'll ever need. By the way, I know other reviewers have said they can make the camcorder freeze up by zooming in or out during recording, but mine works fine even when I do that. (I purposely tried to freeze it, but couldn't.)

I saved the best for last: the Flip Video software. That's what made it even more impressive! It is ridiculously easy to setup, automatically starts when I plug in the camcorder, and makes it completely obvious how to download the videos, play back, freeze frames to make photos, and share. And it's fast-not much waiting for videos to load up (like other video players). It's all in an easy-to-use, well-organized (by video date) layout very similar to the iPod control panel (a common comparison, it seems). I wish all software was this easy to use.

I highly recommend this device-it's a winner!

Buy Flip MinoHD Video Camera - Brushed Metal, 8 GB, 2 Hours (2nd Generation) Now

We bought this camera because we lost our first generation Flip MinoHD, which we loved. I'm sad to report that the USB issues mentioned by countless others are real, and I decided it was worth posting a video that clearly shows the extent of the issue so as to help convince others not to waste their money. This simply doesn't work with Macs, and as you can see from this video it also doesn't work with an Acer Aspire One netbook (~20% of all netbooks currently being shipped). This is a fundamental flaw with the product and is completely inexcusable.

UPDATE 4/19/2010

It seems likely that Cisco has attempted to resolve this issue in the lots now leaving their manufacturing facility. Indeed, there was for a few days a carefully worded "we know this is an issue, but don't want to get in too much trouble, so we'll only partially acknowledge the problem" notice at the top of this page informing consumers of USB connectivity problems "in a small percentage of cases." That Amazon.com has removed this notice is, I suppose, heartening and suggests that it may have been corrected. That being said, there still appears to be a number of recent reviews complaining of USB connectivity issues. These may be from older lots/the sale of existing inventory, or items that are acquired from sellers other than Amazon.com. It seems there is a good chance that you will NOT have USB connectivity issues if you are receiving a recently-manufactured device. However, if you get one that was made prior to the correction of this issue, know that you may have connectivity problem. You might also want to inquire as to whether or not you would be required to pay return shipping charges if it doesn't connect. I may even go out and buy another one of these devices to see if the issue has, in fact, been resolved. If I do this, I'll post an updated video.

Read Best Reviews of Flip MinoHD Video Camera - Brushed Metal, 8 GB, 2 Hours (2nd Generation) Here

I've enjoyed every Flip since the first Mino and this 2nd Gen MinoHD exceeds all my expectations. It's still easy-to-use and easy-to-share video; but, the package is slicker than ever. No fingerprints on the brushed metal front, the 2" screen is shows detail in any light, and the controls are much more responsive than previous Minos and MinoHDs. The audio is so good, my son's Reggae band won't give it back.

PROS:

*2" screen is big and clear

*Great HD video in normal to bright light

*Better sound than a personal voice recorder

*One thumb video shooting

*Easy uploads and edits no format worries and YouTube friendly

*HDMI output directly to HD panels

*Brushed metal shrugs off fingerprints and nose prints (don't ask)

*Storage pouch doubles as lens cleaner

*Lickable packaging

CONS:

*Low light shots are grainy (easily solved at price points $1,000 higher)

*USB plug is a little tight

*The wrist strap was hard to mount because of the brushed metal-solved with a toothpick

Want Flip MinoHD Video Camera - Brushed Metal, 8 GB, 2 Hours (2nd Generation) Discount?

In May, 2009, I wrote a review comparing the Flip Ultra HD with the 1st generation Mino HD, and although at the time I thought the Ultra HD was a step forward, I missed the more diminutive size of the Flip Mino HD. Since then, I've been waiting patiently for Cisco to release a pocket camcorder that combined the same new features found in the Flip Ultra HD in the smaller and more compact form factor of the Mino HD. Well, they've finally done it!

The Flip Mino HD (2nd generation) is now the 3rd Flip series camcorder I've owned, and in my opinion this is clearly the best one yet! Basically, the Flip Mino HD (2nd generation) has all of the same convenient features found in the Ultra HD such as a larger 2" display, HDMI out, Stereo mic, and 2 hour HD recording capacity, in a in a sleek and newly designed Mino HD form factor. I've read many complaints about the Flip's lack of integrated image stabilizer, and I'm sure they will add that functionality in future products. However, whatever the Flip Mino HD camcorder lacks in features, it more than makes up for it in a simple, user-friendly, and ultra sleek design. There are a lot of choices available in the pocket sized video camcorder space, so if you're looking for something with perhaps a little more functionality (e.g. 1080p, replaceable battery, larger zoom, etc.) than you will need to look elsewhere.

Although the Flip Ultra HD is arguably a better value, if you're looking for a top notch pocket sized camcorder that you can take with you anywhere, I highly recommend this product. When it comes to ease-of-use, and convenience, the Flip Mino HD is a clear leader.

Sling Media Slingbox Classic

Well, I've only been using it for about 2 days now and I must say that I am pleasantly surprised and 99% satisfied! (1% is lost on the fact that only one computer can use it at a time.)

The quality is top-notch! I thought it might be pixelated, jerky, or buggy but it isn't. It flows and runs like a regular TV. It just feels like you're watching TV.

Let me also mention all of the features that it has:

* You can watch TV with a full screen and either have the remote on the screen, or not.

* You can hit a button and it will automatically dock to one side of the screen and re-adjust the size of your other windows. And then, you can even fine tune and adjust the size of that window.

* If you just want it to be on your screen and not be docked, you can do that and adjust that screen size as well.

* You can also create a list of favorite channel icons, so all you do is click onto your favorite channel's icon. If the icon doesn't exist you can create your own!

* It also works with channels like HBO On Demand and with TiVo as well (however, I don't have TiVo).

* If your workplace has a firewall, you can access your home computer using your home computer's IP Address.

This product is HIGHLY recommended!

I was amazed. On my home network, streamed very high quality (though small picture, since the TV signal is actually less than 640x480), and when I went wireless, the quality dropped (as expected), but it kept up with audio, didn't break up. Really amazingly well designed wizard to configure.

Buy Sling Media Slingbox Classic Now

Ground-breaking technology. This device allows me to watch my Chicago cable TV service while in Paris. It converts the TV signal into an internet transmission. The image is only about 4 x 3 inches in size on my higher density 1680 by 1050 notebook screen but looks very clean and highly viewable. Sound quality is excellent. Transfer rates ranges from 400 to 700 kbps.

Another feature of this product is that it can be used as an internet based remote control. I have one in my mother's senior home apartment. It enables me to view her apartment, view her electronics, and send remote control signals to her electronics whenever she gets stumped. I'm sure there are many other ways to apply this unique technology.

SlingMedia is an exceptional company. The initial release of this product brought rave reviews -uncommon for release 1.0. They did not rest. Since then, they have released new versions which further enhanced the SlingBox.

I'm impressed with the concept, the technology, the product, the execution, the installation, the enhancements, the updatability, the reliability, the quality of the support, the people from top to bottom. The staff members are very active on avsforum.com. Great attitudes.

While Tivo enabled me to watch TV when I wanted, this product allows me to watch TV where it was otherwise impossible.

This may be the best consumer electronic product of 2005.

Update 15 Nov 2005: Wow, it happened! Time Magazine named it one of the "Best Inventions 2005" in November 21st 2005 issue.

Update 9 Jan 2006: Won PCMag 2005 Technical Excellence Award\

I'm in no way affilated with SlingMedia. I'm just a SlingBox fan boy.

Read Best Reviews of Sling Media Slingbox Classic Here

I want to follow up on my first post about the SlingBox. After my review I was contacted by Blake the CEO of Slingmedia asking me if he could have his support Manager give me a call to discuss my problems. After explaning my story to Larry Lane he asked me if I would give the box another chance. He told me that if I ran into more problems that the box can be sent back no questions asked. I decided that since the CEO of the company can reach out to me as a customer that Slingmedia was concerned how they treated their customers! (How many CEO's reach out to the average customer??).

Larry worked with me personally in setting up my new unit to make sure things went right. After the initial set up I still had a few viewing issues. Larry and his team worked with me on the issues only to find out these issues were due to my router. To make a long story short I replaced my linksys router with a Netgear 624A. My entire network seems to be working much better and the slingbox is GREAT!!!!

I cant say enough how wonderful Blake/Larry and their team was! Without the email from Blake I can honestly say that I would not have a slingbox today or in the future. The people running the company are terrific and have completely changed the way I look at their product! I strongly recommend the product to anyone! The technology is amazing! I cant wait to the summer to sit outside on my deck, get some sun and watch the NY Mets play some baseball!!

Thank you Blake and Larry!! You and your team are great!

Want Sling Media Slingbox Classic Discount?

My friend explained Slingbox to me, and at first I just didn't get it. Then one day it hit me: I could be in a hotel room, get on my laptop, control my Tivo or cable box via remote repeaters, and watch the streaming video sent from my house. That was when I realized that the way I watched TV was about to change again (since I got my Tivo) and I couldn't wait.

I got a Slingbox as quickly as I could and have absolutely loved it. With the help of the great Dell Inspiron 700m laptop, I've watched and controlled my home TV in the airport, hotels, coffee shops, in my bed, at work, and even had a friend's wife catch up on her O.C. in Singapore! I've docked the SlingPlayer viewer while working on my desktop at home. After watching from work a couple of times, my boss bought one and streams the news all day he's hooked.

The Slingbox looks great, is exceptionally easy to set up, and the software works very well. I'm really impressed with the picture and the dynamic streaming based on bandwidth. Make sure you've planned how you're going to add it to your networkI used the netgear Power over Ethernet bridge to connect to my network from the living room, and I'd recommend it if your TV is far from your network (easy setup, high bandwidth, and no extra radio waves going through your body).

As a Slingbox owner, I highly recommend this product, especially if you've been thinking about getting a TV tuner or Video card with tuner supportthis is a more flexible alternative, and SlingPlayer viewer software can be installed on multiple systems.

P.S. Desperate Housewives was only used for the purpose of alliteration. It is not an admission that I watch it. I did actually watch T.V., although not South Park, from Switzerland, and it worked flawlessly!

WMA + MP3 Player Sunglasses 2GB - Stereo Sound Effect

• Flip up glasses
• Stereo Sound Effect
• Case, Usb & Rechargable battery
• Playing time: Standard 4-5 hours
• Earphone moves forward/ backward/ swivel 270 deg for comfortable fit

I received my sunglasses mp3 player today. Downloading music was easy enough but now it won't play. So far I have gotten it to play one song but if I touch any of the buttons-it stops and won't start back. The instructions are horrible! All they explain is how to pair it to your phone but no explanation whatsoever on how to use the mp3 functions which is the main reason I bought it. Very disappointed so far. I hope I can change this review later but the instructions or lack there of along with it not working warrants no stars but I had to give it one because the glasses look nice I guess.

Ok! Updated to 3 stars. Finally got them to work. I finally had to delete all the music I had downloaded on them and reload by dragging from itunes to the F: drive. A little inconvenient to do it this way but the other way (using windows media player) apparently overloaded it. They sound great now that they are working but I can only give 3 stars right now due to the poor, poor instructions or lack thereof.

Buy WMA + MP3 Player Sunglasses 2GB - Stereo Sound Effect Now

these will be my second pair-my first being stolen. I found them excellent both as shades and as an mp3 player. While running they stay put in your ears; the pounding of your feet on the ground do not affect the quality of the music playing; and, to beat all, they look great and last as stated, about 4-5 hours of continuous play. I miss mine and can't wait to get my new ones.

Read Best Reviews of WMA + MP3 Player Sunglasses 2GB - Stereo Sound Effect Here

MP3 audio quality = 5

Ease of loading music = 5

Comfort and overall look = 4

Bluetooth = 3 (it works)

Set up instructions = 2 at best.

Overall this unit out performs the price you pay.

I'll but 10 of these before I but one pair of Oakley for some $200 bucks!!

Want WMA + MP3 Player Sunglasses 2GB - Stereo Sound Effect Discount?

Received my glasses on time,but that's where the good thing ended. For no apparent reason after spending HOURS loading up songs to hear, I unplug a DEAD pair of sunglasses. No music, no red light and when plugged in, not accessible by computer for anything at all. Useless, DO NOT BUY!! You have been warned.

Save 86% Off

I have two pair of these sunglasses. I have never had any trouble with them. I download mp3 and wma music on one pair and audio books on the other pair. I love listening to the thousands of free classic novels that are available on the net. These are books I've always wanted to read but never had they time.