Product Description

With a sleek, compact design, 5.0 megapixel resolution and a 3X optical zoom lens, the waterproof OptioWP blends digital elegance into outdoor lifestyles. Amphibious, elegant digital you'll take everywhere - Snorkel, ski, or attend a stunning wedding, and you'll never stop snapping with the OptioWP. This latest digital delivers both on land and in the sea with a faster .6 second start up, a quick .05 second shutter release, movie mode and a generous 2.0 inch monitor. A beautiful, petite JIS Class 8 waterproof-rated exterior promises you'll capture images proudly just under the water's surface or in the most formal settings. Finally, your wait is over for petite, durable, go everywhere digital. Slim, Stylish Design - The slim OptioWP body is less than one inch in depth, so it slips easily into a pocket or bag while the stylish aluminum alloy design offers a comfortable grip. Waterproof Performance - Go ahead and swim with the OptioWP! The camera features a rust-resistant metal exterior, rubber sealants, and lens protection that opens up a new world of photographic potential. Users may shoot in rain, in snow, in the pool, or on the beach to capture outdoor scenes and adventure. The JIS Class 8 waterproof rating confirms the OptioWP will remain watertight even when the camera is used in water. (*The OptioWP may be submerged and operated up to three feet underwaterfor up to 30 minutes. (1 meter = 3.28 feet)) ... Read more

Features

• Powered by a long-life rechargeable Lithium-ion battery; stores images on SD memory cards and has approximately 10.5MB of built-in memory
• 5 MP CCD captures enough detail for photo-quality 13 x 17-inch prints
• Waterproof body enables approximately 30 minutes of continuous underwater shooting at a depth of up to 1.5 meters
• 3x optical zoom; recovery function makes it possible to reclaim images and audio files erased accidentally
• Large, 2.0-inch LCD monitor with low-reflection technology and a backlighting system

Reviews (2)

Excellent all-round camera
I am very impressed with this small, easy-to-use, fun camera.First of all, it is very stylish.Its body is small and shiny and its screen is quite large.I was actually surprised by how small it is because the pictures make it seem about average size.In terms of performance, the five megapixels, built-in memory, and 3x optical zoom set it out from digital cameras of similar price.Plus, its water proof and durable.In all, you really can't go wrong with this camera.

Best waterproof digicam
When shoppping for a waterproof digital camera to use while river floating, I was drawn to this one. Small, sleek & stylish, it's better looking and has better resolution than any of the other offerings. I've only used mine on one trip, but I already like it. Although I was somewhat disappointed by the lack of an optical viewfinder, the large LCD is bright enough to use in sunshine with sunglasses on. A few of my photos came out blurry even though the beep indicated the autofocus had locked. These were photos of other boats coming toward me rapidly while I was sitting in my boat, so my movement may have contributed. I need to experiment with the continuous AF and high-speed shooting modes to perfect these shots. It's great that the camera offers you so many options of AF and shooting modes. It also offers a large array of options for tweaking your images in the camera, from adding a frame to eliminating red-eye. This makes me think it might be feasible to print good hard copies without using a computer, something I never considered with other cameras.

All in all, I'd say this is a very good do-it-all, take-it-anywhere camera, with the bonus of it being waterproof. Highly Recommended! ... Read more

Features

• 4,000 dpi optical resolution, 4.8 density
• 16-bit A/D conversion, 8 or 16-bit output
• Preview scans in 11 seconds, full scans as fast as 20 seconds
• Digital ICE4 Advanced suite of image correction technologies
• USB interface, PC and Mac compatible

Reviews (4)

Works beautifully, although slower than you might expect
I am using this product almost exclusively for slide scanning, so my comments only apply to that aspect of this product.

If you are like me and wondering whether you should suffer through using a consumer level slide scanner or fork out the dough for this one, then the quality this produces when scanning dark slides should be enough to convince you alone. And that's just the beginning. I've used consumer level scanners before and no amount of tweaking or photoshop'ing can match the quality the Coolscan 5000 produces. For professionals, this is of course a no brainer, but for semi-professional folks like me, this is a major investment, and I needed some convincing that it would be worth it. I am now convinced.

Don't put too much stock into the scan times (and feed times for the sf-210 auto feeder). These times are without any Digital ICE, auto exposure, auto focus, etc. However, I have found if you do not use these features, you are wasting your time. After much tweaking to get all the settings such that the final result looked just like the original slide, I am looking at about 1 minute and 30 seconds per slide using the sf-210 (AMD 2.2 Ghz 1GB Ram, scanning at 2000 dpi)

I have found that without tweaking, you get a bluish hue (although a little less so for Kodachrome slides). I have turned red up +20 and blue down +20 (green at 0) and to me, this seems to give the best results (ymmv).

Use the digital ice features!!! They are simply amazing. The dust and scratch removal is phenomenal. The grain removal is also wonderful - and it keeps the picture sharp much more so than using a software filter like those found in Photoshop. Personally, I set the Digital ROC (color restoration and correction) to 0 because it is too unpredictable.

Lastly, use a bright, high quality LCD monitor! You would be amazed at the difference this can make when doing color matching, especially on dark pictures. I was astonished to see the difference.

When you take the above into consideration, this scanner is superb. Plan on spending a few hours getting your settings just right, but after that, sit back and enjoy. I've done 8x10 prints of my slides (scanned at 2000 dpi) that are just beautiful. It is near impossible to match the luminance and beauty of a projected slide, but the Coolscan 5000 does a darn good job.

An outstanding, if imperfect, scanner.
First of all, let me say I am a neophyte when it comes to scanning. My mother passed away recently and I wanted to go through my father's 20,000 slides and scan the best ones before they, as many before them, disappeared into the hands of one of my 7 other siblings never to be found again.

After culling my father's slides I ended up with about 750 I wanted to scan. After culling my own slides I ended up with another 200 slides. And after that I decided to go through my color negative collection and scan the best of those as well. A daunting project! But honestly well worth the effort.

Most of my father's slides are Kodachrome. Much has been written about the inability of this scanner to scan Kodachrome slides and said about ICE4 not working with Kodachrome. Well, I have some good news and some bad news. The ICE4 does work, however, inconstantly with Kodachrome slides producing unacceptable artifacts in about 5 - 10 percent of the slides. It is a hit or miss proposition. I scanned with ICE (not ICE4) always on and then rescanned if I encountered unacceptable artifacts. I did notice that the scanner ICE feature was stumped by old Kodachrome slides where subjects were wearing shirts with stripes. Those stripes were really butchered by the ICE feature.

The GEM ROC and DEE (the other stalwarts of the ICE4 other than ICE itself) work on Kodachrome slides as well, but I found that the results were unpredictable and that I could achieve better results myself in Photoshop far more quickly. The GEM ROC and DEE features simply took too long and slowed down the scanning unacceptably. The results, for me, were not worth the additional scanning time.

The good news: The scanner is fast and does produce wonderful wonderful detailed scans, easily demonstrating the grain in the transparancies at 3000 and 4000 dpi. The Kodachrome slides were a challenge to the Dynamic Range of the scanner, but I believe that most of the detail in the shadows that is there was extracted. Unfortunately, Kodachrome, with all of its many attributes, does have substantial downsides including a very narrow exposure latitude and shadow detail is simply lacking. I think the scanner accurately reproduced the information including the colors on the Kodachrome slides, with perhaps a slight bluish cast noticed in some cases.

It wasn't until I was finished scanning all of the culled slides that I undertook to scan my select color negatives. And this scanner really came into its own scanning color negatives. Don't even TRY to scan color negatives without ICE because the results are unbelievably bad. Even pristine negatives have scratches and pit marks that magically are erased by the ICE feature. What a godsend. I only wish it had worked so flawlessly on the Kodachrome slides. The scanned color negatives were just beautiful with very accurate color rendition. But immediately I noticed much more grain in the color negatives (Royal Gold and Fuji Superia Gold) than in the scanned slides.

One note unrelated to the scanner itself. Until you've used a digital scanner to scan your color negatives you can't begin to realize how far superior Kodachrome, Provia, and Ektachrome slides are to color negatives insofar as capturing detail. Even the best color negatives have much more grain that Kodachrome. And the difference in color negatives is substantial too.

The included Nikon software worked fantastic for me. I downloaded a copy of VueScan which according to many reviews is superior to the Nikon software and found that for me the Nikon software was easier to work with and produced superior results.

The software did cause my computer to crash occasionally which was an aggravation, but a minor one when considered against its many attributes.

I can recommend this scanner without reservation. It is a phenomenal piece of equipment.

Best 35mm film scanner under $50,000
The previous generation (CS IV and CS 4000) were hard to top, but Nikon did it yet again. Scans are smooth and gorgeous, color accuracy (provided your monitor is calibrated) is unrivaled and the updated ICE4 including DEE are a blessing. In fact the scans are so good that I have started to prefer CS5000 scans from well exposed Fuji Provia 100F or Astia 100F slides than images from a 6MP DSLR. Hard to believe but thats true.

Did I mention scanning speed ? I timed a 4000 DPI scan with digital ICE turned off, on a P4 2.6Ghz with 1 GB ram and USB2. It took 17 seconds from begining to end (excluding autofocus and auto exposure). Thats right. Actually three seconds faster than Nikon's claim of 20 sec. Beat that Minolta.

IMO the next step up can only be a $50K HowTek drum scanner ;)

Fantastic, great for Slides!
I am glad I waited to purchase this scanner; it's an updated version with Digital Ice 4, and for A LOT less than the previous model.

I also purchased the automated Slide feeder with this, and it is nothing short of a miracle! The Digital ROC and Digital ICE is unbelievable with old slides, particularly Kodachromes. There are plenty of customizable enhancement settings to keep me busy for a long time.

I use this for business; this scanner will pay for itself with one bulk slide scanning order.

Love it, love it! ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Compact yet powerful, the Epson Stylus Pro 4000 desktop inkjet printer features the latest (2004) inkjet, print-head, and printer-engine technologies in order to meet the needs of the most demanding graphics professionals. With Epson's UltraChrome Ink technology, the Stylus Pro 4000 will produce archival-quality prints with high color fidelity while providing consistently stable colors designed to significantly outperform standard-dye inks.

To maximize the use of its ink technology, Epson developed a unique print head capable of handling eight separate ink cartridges simultaneously. This lets the Epson Stylus Pro 4000 handle both photo-black and matte-black inks at the same time so it can maximize the black density on virtually any media type. Even better, the printer's high-performance, one-inch-wide print head produces an astonishing resolution of 2,880 x 1,440 dpi, setting a new Epson standard for quality and speed.

Handling virtually any media type in roll or cut sheets up to 17 inches wide, the Stylus Pro 4000's built-in high-capacity paper tray holds up to 250 sheets of plain letter-sized paper or up to 50 sheets of 17-by-22-inch photographic media. Choose from four different ways to load media, including a front-loading straight-through path for media up to 1.5 mm posterboard. A built-in automatic media cutter greatly simplifies roll printing.

What about print speed? For graphics and prepress proofing, the printer can produce everyday production-quality 13-by-19-inch prints in 2 minutes, 23 seconds and contract-quality proofs in just 7 minutes, 49 seconds. For professional photography, the Stylus Pro 4000 produces photo-lab quality 8-by-10-inch prints in 3 minutes, 48 seconds and 16-by-20-inch prints in 10 minutes, 25 seconds. And, for CAD and GIS, you'll get draft-quality 17-by-22-inch prints in 90 seconds and photo-quality 17-by-22-inch prints in 5 minutes, 58 seconds.

Enjoy the benefits of two user-exchangeable ink modes (photographic or dual CMYK). The photographic ink mode is ideal for any photographic or graphic design project where image quality is important. It uses cyan, light cyan, magenta, light magenta, yellow, photo black, light black, and matte black. The dual CMYK ink mode takes advantage of Epson's Matte Black ink technology to produce outstanding photographic prints on plain paper. It uses two of each primary color to deliver speeds up to 98 percent faster than the photographic ink mode. Plus, exclusive "light black" ink significantly improves the printer's gray balance while eliminating color casts and improving the midtones and highlights for smooth transitions.

What's in the Box
Printer, eight 110 ml UltraChrome ink cartridges (Photo Black ink cartridge T543100, Cyan ink cartridge T543200, Magenta ink cartridge T543300, Yellow ink cartridge T543400, Light Cyan ink cartridge T543500, Light Magenta ink cartridge T543600, Light Black ink cartridge T543700, Matte Black ink cartridge T543800), user's manual, registration information; printer cable not included ... Read more

Features

• 2,880 x 1,440 dpi maximum resolution, 3.5-picoliter droplet size
• Handles wide-format media up to 17 inches
• 7-color Epson UltraChrome Ink with 8-channel print-head technology
• Prints on both sides without damaging the previously printed side
• USB and FireWire interfaces, optional networking

Product Description

802.11g Wi-Fi base station (also compatible with 802.11b) * when connected to compatible modem or network, provides wireless Internet access to up to 10 computers at a time * minijack output (analog and mini-optical digital) for connection to a stereo system or powered speakers (cables available separately) * USB port for connection to a USB-compatible printer * 10/100 Base-T Ethernet port for connection to a compatible modem or network * weight: 6.7 oz. * dimensions: 1-3/16"W x 3-3/4"H x 3"D * warranty: 1 year ... Read more

Features

• Enjoy your iTunes music library in virtually any room of your house
• Share a single broadband Internet connection and USB printer without inconvenient and obtrusive cables
• Create an instant wireless network on the go
• Access an AirPort Express wireless network
• Compatible with Windows XP or 2000; Mac OS X v10.2.7 or later

Amazon.com Product Description

The TRU8885-2 from Uniden is a cordless phone with a built-in answering machine, caller ID compatibility, and expandability to 10 handsets. It comes with two handsets, one that recharges in the base unit and another that recharges in the included remote charging cradle. That latter requires only an AC outlet, so you don't have to worry about additional phone jacks.

By utilizing the less cluttered 5.8 GHz frequency, the TRU8885-2 is able to offer a clearer, more intelligible signal than older phones operating on lower bands. Caller ID/call waiting compatible (requires subscription through your local phone company), the TRU8885-2 holds up to 200 numbers in its internal caller ID/phone directory (100 on the base, 100 on the handset), while the display-and-dial feature allows you to quickly scroll through the caller ID list and dial the displayed number with the touch of a button. Ten speed dial presets allow you to easily call the most frequently used outgoing numbers, and an alphabetical search feature provides an easy way to locate numbers stored in the internal memory.

Handset and base speakerphones provide a hands-free communication method, while a direct link mode allows you to use the handsets as walkie-talkies. Four-way conferencing allows several phones to communicate with an outside call. An intercom function enables communication with other phones on the same system, and the call transfer feature lets you transfer calls from the base phone to the handset and vise versa.

The all-digital answering machine has a 12-minute maximum record time and a four-minute maximum message length. A conversation record feature provides a quick and easy way to save important information such as directions, while full remote operation allows you to check your messages even when you are away from home. A page/handset locater feature makes finding a lost handset quick and painless. Handset and ringer controls let you adjust volume levels to your liking, while the redial button automatically calls the last three outgoing numbers. The TRU8885-2 also comes with a one-year limited warranty.

What's in the Box
Base, two handsets, remote charging cradle, two battery packs, two AC adapters, one telephone line cord, two belt clips, user's manual, warranty information ... Read more

Features

• 5.8 GHz digital signal; handset and base speakerphones
• Multi-user expandable to 10 handsets, 2 included
• Digital answering machine, 12 minutes record time
• Caller ID/call waiting compatible
• 200 caller ID/phone directory memory locations

Reviews (17)

Great phone system. Fixed problems from prior versions
I've been wanting to get a 5.8ghz phone system for a while, but all previous models seemed to always have some kind of major shortcoming. Seems Uniden recognized this and came out with a model to beat all previous ones.

The 8885 and 8865 models are newer versions of their old 5860/85 lines. It has pretty much any feature you could want.

Just to highlight some of the strong points:
1. Nice phone design. Perfect size and not as ugly as the previous model.
2. Perfect reception. Anywhere in our house the phone is crystal clear.
3. Speakerphone in the base and from every handset.
4. Intercom/Paging between phones
5. 100 number phonebook (although it shares entries with callerid). You can keep separate phonebooks per phone, or download the phonebook from other phones.
6. DirectLink mode, where you can use the handsets as walkie-talkies. Although in my opinion the phones are a tad too big to carry around with you everywhere, but it might be nice for specific situations. I haven't tested the range though.
7. You can have the base + 2 handsets speaking on the line at the same time. The previous model was limited to 1 handset per conversation.
8. Customizable ringtones - can assign a certain ringtone to a certain caller so you know who they are. Can only use the builtin tones though.
9. Handsets have a plug to use with a headset for handsfree operation
10. Can access the voicemail from any of the handsets, not just from the base.

Those are just some of the major features, there's plenty of other little bells and whistles to configure the phone.

My only 2 complaint is that incoming caller ID gets stored on every phone. There is no way to just delete it from all phones at once. You need to go to each phone individually to delete the callerid list. Fortunately there is a delete all option.

One other potential complaint is that you can't set up separate mailboxes on the answering machine. I know some of the other brands let you do this. No biggee for me as I wouldn't use the feature anyways, but might be important to some.

Those might just be nitpicks though. This system really exceeded my expectations and I give it the highest recommendation possible.

Solid construction, feature rich!
After going through cheap cordless phones faster than a pair of sneakers, I decided to part with some extra money for the Uniden TRU-8885-2. I was floored by the features: big bright backlit displays, crystal-clear sound (both earpiece and speaker-phone), synchronized handsets (day of week/time, phonebooks, conferencing), sophisticated but easy to use menus, as well as access to the same features from all handset menus. However, a little extra money also gets you good, solid construction. Both handsets and base have solid buttons that are easy to push yet are rigid and don't feel like they could fall out or misfire. The handsets are compact and contoured for your hand. The internal antennas add to their aesthetics.

During calls, features are easy to access with a single click, like volume up and down buttons, mute, and speaker-phone (if you need to put the phone down and continue the call). The selection of ring tones and tunes are actually pleasant and far less cheesy than the ones in my Nokia cell phone.

Only drawbacks noticed so far could be some sporadic reception issues depending what kind of structures are between you and the base. I can get great reception in one distant room, but not another. This could be the case with any phone, and with the newer 5.8 GHz band (and shorter wavelengths), articles suggest there may be a very slight trade-off with reception for the extra security. Nevertheless, it appears that a little common sense and strategic placement of the base could work wonders for any reception problems. I've also noticed that the answering machine seems to be a little dodgy in detecting early hang-ups; they tend to result in the "please hang up and try your call again" messages. But if you limit your incoming messages to 1 minute (and not four) then this problem should be kept under control. I otherwise love the answering machine set-up and operation.

This is a handsome, well-built, and feature-packed phone that, at least in homes and apartments less than "sprawling", should offer good reception and performance. Finally, the "true" 5.8 GHz receive/transmit was a must as I am a wireless network user.

no power failure issues for messages?
I wrote to Uniden support asking about what happens to the messages if the power goes out. I also was curious if the direct link phone functionality was different than when talking to the base. You would think the range would have to be decent for walkie-talkie usage; the manual talks about using them while shopping for example. Also I did unplug my phone (very briefly) and saw that time reset but then it came back to the correct time soon afterwards. My outgoing message was also intact. So I'm not sure how that works... a capacitor or small battery? I guess the announcements/messages could be written to some type of memory that doesn't need power (like a CF card?)

I would have to say though that the answering machine is a little hard to get used, especially when my old Siemens 4215 had such a nice interface (it said the caller id and time when listening remotely and showed caller id on the display when accessing through the handsets. It seems especially odd that the Uniden says the time of the call after you play the message rather than before! The Uniden voice is also a lot more "robot-like" than the old Siemens.

Here was Uniden's reply:

"The range of the phone will depend on your environment for both using the handset and also in direct link mode.

With out any interference and a direct line from the base to the handset, the range is up to 6000ft. In direct link mode the range is line of sight between the handsets.

If there is a power failure, the messages will be restored regardless of how long the power was out."

Good phone
Went from a Panasonic 900 mhz to this phone mainly for the capability to expand to many rooms w/o having to wire new jacks. Others have a fine job in their reviews, so just want to comment on what other see as a flaw but I see as a positive which is the Caller ID delete functionality being independent on each phone and the base unit. Some have said all should be able to be deleted at once--a "universal" delete. We have three users on the phone line each with their own handset. The way it works now, each of us can determine for own handsets which ones to delete--if Uniden ever goes to the universal delete, I hope they give the option to let the "deleter" choose which handsets (or the base unit) to do the "univeral" delete.

Does this phone sound good???
I bought this phone twice, AND returned it twice. I read so many glowing reviews I thought maybe my first Uniden was just defective.

This phone does have great features, it's pretty, and kind of fun. BUT the range is beyond HORRIBLE! It's a joke. I live in a small house..if I go to the end of my home...all of 45 feet..this phone breaks up badly. I can't even use it in my basement directly below the base. What is the puropse of a cordless phone...if you can't walk more than 40 or so feet from the base?
Also yes the receiver end does sound rather good. But just leave yourself a voice mail if you have voice mail at work etc. You'll find that this Uniden does not sound good to others. The speech transmit sound is very dark, and almost muffled. I had many complaints that I sounded as if I were on a bad cell phone. Also you will hear YOUR voice in the earpiece...which is good. But it sounds slightly buzzy and borderline distorted. It gets annoying after a while.

Long story short I returned this phone twice...and have since picked up the Panasonic 5200 series...and it's just SO much better than these Unidens. I doubt I had TWO defective Unidens. By the way I'm NOT anti Uniden. THE best cordless I ever owned was a Uniden...which has since died... I say buy a Panasonic...it's much better than these new Unidens... MUCH better!!! ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Garmin's GPSMAP 76CS is a state-of-the-art handheld marine GPS unit with a vivid, sunlight-readable color display, sizeable internal memory, and fast USB connectivity. Central to the device is its high-resolution, highly reflective, 256-color TFT display and LED backlight, implemented so you can navigate in either broad daylight or complete darkness, as your schedule dictates. The unit retains the overall sleek and easy-to-use design of earlier generations of the GPSMap 76 family, including its rugged, buoyant, waterproof housing.

The compact unit also boasts a 13 MB Americas marine basemap that includes tide data. In addition, an impressive 115 MB of internal memory lets you load optional MapSource BlueChart or "Recreational Lakes with Fishing Hot Spots" marine cartography. (The award-winning BlueChart features depth contours, inter-tidal zones, wrecks, and navaids, while Recreational Lakes includes fishing areas, boat ramps, marinas, and hazards for more than 1,000 popular U.S. and Canadian lakes.)

You can rely on the 76CS when you're navigating the highways and byways in your rudderless vehicle, too, thanks to a built-in, auto-routing basemap of major interstates and highways. When loaded with optional MapSource City Select detailed street cartography, the GPS provides automatic route calculation to millions of addresses or points of interest, complete with turn-by-turn directions and tone alerts. The unit is also compatible with MapSource U.S. Topo and 24K Topo for off-road excursions.

Loading charts or maps is faster than it was with earlier-generation devices, too, thanks to the 76CS's USB interface. Navigation instructions can be shared with repeaters, plotters, and autopilots using NMEA protocols through a dedicated serial port.

The 76CS also includes an electronic compass--which displays accurate headings even while standing still--and a barometric altimeter with an elevation computer that provides current elevation, ascent/descent rate, minimum/maximum elevation, total ascent/descent, and average/maximum ascent/descent rate.

Other features include a built-in quad helix antenna with remote antenna capability; 1,000 user waypoints with name and graphic symbols; 50 reversible routes; a 10,000-point automatic track log; 20 saved tracks (so you can retrace your path in both directions); audible alarms for anchor drag, arrival, off-course, proximity waypoint and clock; and a trip computer that provides, among other things, an odometer, stopped time, moving average, overall average, total time, and max speed.

Battery life using 2 AA alkaline batteries is rated at 20 hours typical use. The 76CS is waterproof to IEC 60529 IPX-7 standards (submersible to 1 meter for up to 30 minutes).

What's in the Box
GPSMAP 76CS, a basemap (Americas Autoroute), a Marine Point database, a MapSource Trip & Waypoint Manager CD-ROM, a PC/USB cable, a lanyard, a user's manual, and a quick-start guide. ... Read more

Features

• High-resolution, highly reflective, 256-color TFT display with LED backlight is readable in bright sunlight or darkness
• 13 MB Americas marine basemap with tide data
• 115 MB of internal memory lets you load MapSource BlueChart or "Recreational Lakes" marine cartography (both optional)
• Electronic compass (displays accurate headings even while standing still) and a barometric altimeter with an elevation computer
• USB and serial-port interfaces

Reviews (2)

For a general-purpose mapping GPSR, Garmin got it right!
The GPSMAP76CS continues the evolution of Garmin's GPSMAP line of GPS receivers. It is well-suited for walking, car navigation and casual marine use. I already own a GPSMAP76S. The major advances of the 76CS are:

(1) Color TFT screen - makes it so easy to see your maps and data; it's bright and sharp, easy to read in any light. The variable-level backlight is great in low-light situations. The night-time color scheme is pretty cool, too. You can have the receiver automatically switch between day/night color schemes at sunrise/sunset, or manually select the mode. There are several alternate color schemes for day or night-time use.

(2) Point-to-point automatic routing - works very well. There are two audio-visual prompts for each turn, one about a minute before, and again (with a different tone sequence) about 10 seconds before the turn. You can choose from several different tone sequences, but I'm happy with the defaults. The prompts display a zoomed-in view of the intersection (great for tricky interchange exits and ramps). If you miss a turn, it re-calculates your route to get you to the next point, or your destination. Generally it uses the most major roads available for routing. For areas that I know well, I may take a local road that I know will get me where I'm going sooner. When driving in unfamiliar territory, I rely on the route it calculates for the most part. Apparently, you can select variations on the routing algorithm on the "follow roads options" page: Car/Motorcycle (the one I use), Truck, Bus, Emergency, Taxi, Delivery, Pedestrian and Bicycle. I haven't tried any of the other routing options yet. Overall, I would give the routing capability 4 stars.

(3) Customizable page sequence - in my other Garmin GPS receivers, you can cycle through the main pages forwards or backwards, but you can't change the sequence. The 76CS lets you add, remove, or move individual pages within the sequence. I put the pages I use most often next to each other; I like this feature.

(4) Recent Finds page - a new feature and real time-saver when I want to go to a place that I've looked up before. I use this page so often, I added it to my main page sequence. However, I discovered you can bring up the Recent Finds page by pressing the Find button twice.

(5) More memory - 115 MB stores detailed map data from optional Mapsource CD ROM sets. I was able to load all of North Carolina and about half of South Carolina and Virginia from the North America City Select database. This is nearly 5 times the memory of the 76S!

(6) USB connection - my old 76S (with serial connection) takes the better part of an hour to load a full 24MB map set from the Mapsource CD ROMS. The USB connection on the 76CS makes loading the full 115MB much quicker. Also, loading waypoints, routes and tracks between the receiver and PC is way faster now.

Garmin periodically updates their GPS receivers' software, and you can easily download the updates from the Garmin website. They have already posted an update to the GSPMAP76CS (version 3.40 was released June 8, 2004).

Quibbles: as mentioned in another review, you can't customize the data fields display to show small data fields three-across, as you can with the 76S. Admittedly, the small data fields on the 76S are hard to read while driving; I would consider this a minor setback for the 76CS. One can still display up to 4 data fields in large or medium size as an option on several of the pages, much like the 76S.

One feature of the 76S that I like is the ability to show the name of the upcoming cross-street (when lock-on-roads is enabled). This is a useful feature when you're just cruising around an unfamiliar part of a city. At first, I thought this was missing from the new 76CS, but I discovered that when the map has guidance text turned on all the time (instead of only when the unit is actively navigating) then when not navigating, the text area displays the upcoming street name. Another great feature of the 76S which carried over to the 76CS: graphic editing of a route. When the "use map" option is selecting while editing a route, move the pointing arrow to touch a route segment. The segment then appears as a dotted line, and if you press the Enter key, acts like a tight rubber band attached to the panning arrow. One can then move the panning arrow to any other map feature (for example an intersection) and press Enter to add an intermediate route point. I've found Garmin's manuals provide a good introduction to basic operation, but may not cover all the features. However, I've found the 76CS operation to be fairly intuitive.

Now for the major gripe: to enter text or numbers, Garmin has reverted to the character matrix format (found, for example, on the Etrex Vista), where you move the cursor about a grid of letters and numbers, press Enter to select that character, then move the cursor to the next character, etc. Finally, you move the cursor to the "OK" spot on the grid and press Enter. On the 76S there's no character grid, you just cursor left to clear a field, cursor up to advance the current letter or down to move back through the character set, then cursor right to select the next character, etc. I found this method fairly intuitive and much easier to use on the fly. Hopefully, Garmin will fix this in a future software update.

As with the GPSMAP76S, the sensors are a useful feature, particularly while walking. The compass can be used for getting a bearing while standing still, and the barometric altimeter provides useful information for those of us who just have to know, "how high (or low) are we?". If you don't need these features, the GPSMAP76C should work just as well at a lower price. Garmin's GPSMAP60C / 60CS have the same color screen and similar software, but only 56 MB of memory in a smaller unit. Nearly all Garmin GPS receivers have rugged, waterproof cases, but I prefer the 76-series size and flat shape. They even float!

If you're looking for a general-purpose, easy-to-read, easy-to-use mapping GPS receiver, you need look no further than the GPSMAP76CS (or GPSMAP76C without compass and altimeter). Garmin got it right with this one!

A great unit gets better
I got the gpsmap 76cs just in time for a trip to Alaska. So far the unit is great. It acquires satellites faster than my old gpsmap 76, which is a much appreciated improvement. The new screen is great. Clearly readable without backlight in many different lighting conditions. The color is does not make the screen look washed out or illegible as with other units I have seen.

The new operating system is quite good though I have a few quibbles. The unit will not display as many data fields in certain views as the old operating system but it is also less cluttered. I have also always wondered why Garmin does not include GPS elevation as a data field choice. The lack of an SD card slot is mildly annoying but 115 mb with a USB port is a big improvement.

I would recommend this unit to anyone who is looking for a high quality color GPS. It is also worth noting the Garmin is really good about providing free updates to operating software. ... Read more

Product Description

EDTV design (all signals displayed at 480p) * receives and decodes digital standard-definition and HDTV signals from over-the-air broadcasts (antenna required) * widescreen 16:9 aspect ratio * 852 x 480 pixels * 4000:1 contrast ratio * 160?(H) x 160?(V) viewing angle * ... Read more

Features

• Accepts NTSC (standard broadcast), ATSC/QAM (SDTV and HDVT) signals
• Component Video, Composite Video, S Video inputs
• Surround sound, PCM/Dolby Digital, and fiber optic audio output
• 42" Plasma; 41.8" x 27.5" x 3.8" (W x H x D)
• Widescreen, HDTV-compatible

Reviews (2)

Does it give grainy picture with Standard Satellite (on HD)
How is this TV's picture when you play your regular DVDs and especially non HD (but digital) satellite signal. I recently baught a Sony Wega LCD projection TV that is high definition but realizedchannels like CNN look blurry, espcially when I play some of my DVDs etc...

At long last it has arrived for me, also I am cheap
I have had several TVs in the past 5 years, 2 projection Sonys, a Wega, and I can tell you this is the TV for under 2200 to end them all. I didn't want to spend over 2k on a tv because it just seems like over kill. I wanted to get an HDTV, because I had one before that was a sony projection. That was until I saw this one in the store. I talked to the guy at Bestbuy and he said that they haven't put this one out because they wanted to move some of their older models first. This TV will produce as good of a picture as any at the store. I sat and looked at all of the options, and money aside, not one TV at best buy or circuit city produced as good of a picture as this one. I have brought it home and have been watching it for a week or so. DVDs look great, XBOX with the colorstream cable looks awesome as well. I am still waiting for my HD box to arrive, so that I can hook up the HDMI cable. I couldn't be happier than with this TV. This is the first non Sony TV I have ever bought, and so far I am not disappointed.

Since my first comments have been getting a lot of feedback, I figured it would be a good idea to give a follow up to those still on the fence.


1) I received the HD box, and it looks even better. I connected with an HDMI cable which eliminates component cables and uses just one small connector, which controls all three component inputs as well as the audio to the TV (which most people use their receiver, but this is a nice option to have). Do not buy this cable from BB or CC, they WAY over charge. I bought one for $20 from some website and it works great, they charge well over $100.

2) I wall mounted the TV, directly across from a large window, and there is minimal glare. This is a window that produces a lot of light, and the picture is still fine even at high noon.

3) I went back and doubly compared the picture, and once again I believe the picture on this TV to be as good as any high end Sony out there. I am not naive, I understand lines of resolution and the down conversion of the HD signal should in theory not produce as crisp of a picture as an HD set, but from my point of view it does to the naked eye.

Answer to question:

How is this TV's picture when you play your regular DVDs and especially non HD (but digital) satellite signal. I recently baught a Sony Wega LCD projection TV that is high definition but realized channels like CNN look blurry, espcially when I play some of my DVDs etc...

This TVs pixels are pretty small, so the regular picture is good, especially on DVDs because DVDs native resolution is 480 which is the resolution for EDTVs. When you play DVDs on an HDTV it actually has to down convert it. To be honest the TV looks MUCH better with colorstream component cables or HDMI versus s-video. Same goes for DVDs, the three separate components look much better than S-video did. You may want to try that on your Vega. Also it depends on the size of the TV, the bigger the TV the blurrier the picture is going to seem, versus the HD signal. I noticed that as well on my 57" Sony projection that I had. I would say the difference is much less on this plasma. I can't really speak for other plasmas, and the comparison I made in the store were all on HD signals, so you can't compare it to normal digital channels.

I did originally have this going through standard digital cable and an S-video cable, and per Panasonic the "viera" filter this tv has helps smooth it out. But I did notice a difference switching to HDMI. ... Read more

Product Description

5.1-megapixel effective recording * 3X optical Zoom-Nikkor lens (4X digital/12X total zoom) * 35mm equivalent lens focal length: 35-105mm * 14 MB of built-in memory (holds about 5 images at highest quality setting) * 1-13/16" color LCD * ... Read more

Features

• Powered by AA-size batteries; stores images on SD memory cards
• 5.0-megapixel CCD captures enough detail for for photo-quality 13 x 17-inch prints
• 3x optical zoom through a quality Zoom-Nikkor lens (zoom is equivalent to 34-102mm in a 35mm camera)
• 1.8-inch LCD display; exclusive Nikon In-Camera Red-Eye Fix
• Macro shooting as close as 1.6 inches

Reviews (7)

Best in Class
Replaced my Konica/Minolta X50 with this camera.Pictures are WAY BETTER quality.No contest.Other advantages: 1) uses normal AA batteries (which are easier to replace when traveling abroad), 2) lense sticks out (which prevents guest users from putting their fingers on the lense), 3) easier to hold than the flat Konica/Minolta X50, especially in one hand.Worth every penny!

Highly Satisfied
Its sleek design enables you to carry it anywhere in pretty much any bag.I am a teenager, therfore, I dont carry many bags with me...I just stick it in my pocket! Its that small.I LOVE IT!! The images come out crystal clear.Highly recommended if your shoping for a high-quality digital camera for a low price...c'mon, 5 MPIX's for $250? That's pretty good.

Value for money
I bought this camera a week ago.
This is my first digital camera that i have bought, but i have used lots others in the past.
This camera is outstanding. Extremely easy to use, great-great-great picture quality. It can fulfil the expectations of many starter amateur photographers and can nearly satisfy a professional one. Vivid colours....great.
The recharging of the flash is a lit bit slow.I think that this is this only negative element.
With a 512MB SD memory card you have up to 365 photos of 5mp....what else can an amateur ask?

Its the absolute "value for money" digit cam....maybe the best in its category!

very very slow
This camera is great for picture quality but there are some big negatives.The biggest problem is the slow flash recharge--6 seconds!By then, if you're taking pictures of kids, they're long gone.Also, you have to wait for the LCD to be ready to take the next picture.You can turn the LCD off to save battery, but you have to go through 3 or 4 menu steps to do it, so it's not practical to switch off between using the LCD and not using it.Finally, on some the fixed focus modes (landscape), which cuts down on shutter lag since the camera is not hunting for the autofocus, you can't use a flash.Bottom line is that this is NOT a good camera if you take indoor pictures of anyone in motion.

The small wonder
I am a camera buff and have used many cameras. I would say that this is by far the best camera its size. It is probably a matter of personal tastes, but I think this camera takes much better pictures than the Canon A95.

White balance is wonderful, as with most Nikons.

here are the things that rock:

1. Compact and cute, fits in my jeans pocket
2. Uses just two AA batteries and is light weight( weighs less than the A95)
3. Has a lot of programming modes to handle almost all your day to day shooting needs
4. Crisp and clear images
5. Warns you that the image is going to be blurred before you shoot and also tells you if an image did turn out blurred so you dont have to waste memory saving it
6. EXCELLENT Macro mode, look at the sample image I have posted
7. Silent focusing
8. Super fast USB file transfers
9. Excellent value for money

What could improve:

1. The command dial feels flimsy
2. The battery compartment door feels very flimsy and if you are not careful, you will break it in no time

But in all, the very best value for your money. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Printing professional quality photos from home has become a reality, thanks to easy-to-use photo printers like the Canon PIXMA ip5000. By combining five-color printing and a 1,856-nozzle print head that's capable of delivering superfine 1-picoliter ink droplets (up to 22 million droplets per inch), the ip5000 delivers stunningly accurate prints that should leave professional photo labs a little worried.

Color resolution is as high as 9,600 x 2,400 dpi, with black-and-white resolution of up to 600 x 600 dpi. Print speeds are as high as 25 ppm in black, 17 ppm in color, while a borderless 4-by-6-inch photo can take as little as 36 seconds. The same drive system responsible for the ip5000's improved print speeds also results in a low 34 dB(A) noise level.

Along with a wide variety of plain and photo papers, the ip5000 also accepts envelopes and transparencies. The dual paper path allows you to print two-sided documents or simply store photo papers in one tray and plain paper in the other.

With its easy-to-use USB port, hooking up the printer to your computer is a snap, while a direct print port allows you to print directly from a PictBridge-compatible digital camera or DV camcorder, with or without your computer. The software bundle includes Easy-PhotoPrint and PhotoStitch. Compatible with both PC and Mac operating systems, the ip5000 comes backed with a one-year limited warranty on both parts and labor.

What's in the Box
PIXMA iP5000 photo printer, print head and ink tanks (BCI-3eBK black, BCI-6BK black, BCI-6C cyan, BCI-6M magenta, BCI-6Y yellow), power cord, easy setup instructions, documentation kit (Quick Start Guide, Registration Card), Setup Software and User's Guide on CD-ROM, Canon Photo Paper Pro for Borderless Printing (4-by-6 sample pack); USB cable not included ... Read more

Features

• Up to 600 x 600 dpi black resolution, 9,600 x 2400 dpi color
• Up to 25 ppm black, 17 ppm color speed; borderless 4-by-6-inch photos in just 36 seconds
• Directly supports PictBridge-compatible digital cameras and DV camcorders
• ContrastPLUS ink system for realistic tones and economical replacement
• USB interface, Direct Print Port; PC and Mac compatible

Features

• 4,000 dpi optical resolution, 4.2 density
• 14-bit A/D conversion, 8 or 16-bit output
• Scan speeds as fast as 38 seconds
• Digital ICE4 Advanced suite of image correction technologies
• USB interface, PC and Mac compatible

Reviews (3)

Great alternative to more expensive Coolscan 5000
First of all, let me say I am relatively new at scanning and that I LOVE the Coolscan V as a cheaper alternative to the Coolscan 5000 which I have also used. I recently decided to go through my father's 20,000 slides and scan the best ones before they, as many before them, disappeared into the hands of one of my 7 other siblings never to be found again.

After culling my father's slides I ended up with about 750 I wanted to scan. After culling my own slides I ended up with another 200 slides. And after that I decided to go through my color negative collection and scan the best of those as well. Just recently, my father in law enlisted me to go through his slide collection of about 1500 slides since he was blown away by the results I achieved on my father's slides with the Coolscan 5000.

Most of my father's slides, and all of my father-in-law's slides are Kodachrome. Much has been written about the inability of this scanner to scan Kodachrome slides and said about ICE4 not working with Kodachrome. Well, I have some good news and some bad news. The ICE4 does work, however, inconstantly with Kodachrome slides producing unacceptable artifacts in about 5 - 10 percent of the slides. It is a hit or miss proposition. I scanned with ICE (not ICE4) always on and then rescanned if I encountered unacceptable artifacts. I did notice that the scanner ICE feature was stumped by old Kodachrome slides where subjects were wearing shirts with stripes. Those stripes were really butchered by the ICE feature. The difference in scanning quality between the Coolscan 5000 and the V was negligible to this relative newcomer to scanning.

The GEM ROC and DEE (the other stalwarts of the ICE4 other than ICE itself) work on Kodachrome slides as well, but I found that the results were unpredictable and that I could achieve better results myself in Photoshop far more quickly. The GEM ROC and DEE features simply took too long and slowed down the scanning unacceptably. The results, for me, were not worth the additional scanning time. The V took even longer than the 5000, but in neither case, IMHO, did the results justify the time expended.

The good news: The scanner is does produce wonderful wonderful detailed scans, easily demonstrating the grain in the transparancies at 3000 and 4000 dpi. The Kodachrome slides were a challenge to the Dynamic Range of the scanner, but I believe that most of the detail in the shadows that is there was extracted. Unfortunately, Kodachrome, with all of its many attributes, does have substantial downsides including a very narrow exposure latitude and shadow detail is simply lacking. I think the scanner accurately reproduced the information including the colors on the Kodachrome slides, with perhaps a slight bluish cast noticed in some cases. I was unable to appreciate a significant difference between the two scanners in shadow detail even though the 5000 had a THEORETICAL greater dynamic range.

The V was slower than the 5000, but honestly the difference for the non-professional scanner, to me, was not worth the additional investment. The V represents a superb value giving you nearly all of the advantages of the 5000 other than speed for a substantially cheaper price.

It wasn't until I was finished scanning all of the culled slides that I undertook to scan my select color negatives. And this scanner really came into its own scanning color negatives. Don't even TRY to scan color negatives without ICE because the results are unbelievably bad. Even pristine negatives have scratches and dustthat magically are erased by the ICE feature. What a godsend. I only wish it had worked so flawlessly on the Kodachrome slides. The scanned color negatives were just beautiful with very accurate color rendition. But immediately I noticed much more grain in the color negatives (Royal Gold and Fuji Superia Gold) than in the scanned slides.

One note unrelated to the scanner itself. Until you've used a digital scanner to scan your color negatives you can't begin to realize how far superior Kodachrome, Provia, and Ektachrome slides are to color negatives insofar as capturing detail. Even the best color negatives have much more grain that Kodachrome. And the difference in color negatives is substantial too.

The included Nikon software worked fantastic for me. I downloaded a copy of VueScan which according to many reviews is superior to the Nikon software and found that for me the Nikon software was easier to work with and produced superior results.

The software did cause my computer to crash occasionally which was an aggravation, but a minor one when considered against its many attributes.

I can recommend this scanner without reservation. It is a phenomenal piece of equipment. If speed is not a paramount consideration and you are not a professional scanner needing the options (the auto feeder) offered by the 5000 then, in my opinion, the V represents an absolutely tremendous value.

Scanner does not disappoint.
Decade's collection of fading film this COOLSCAN can handle. You can obtain detailed images that are truly vivid, sharp, and better than the original then technology.

Batch scanning can be done with one click on the Scan button in Nikon Scan 4's firmware. The maintenance free red, green, blue, and infrared LED light source is gentle to film. The 4000 ppi optical resolution is an ideal start for outputting A3+ prints on the new crop of large format bubblejet and inkjet printers.

Reading the Nikon Scan Reference Manual in the Nikon Scan Reference Manual/Easy Scanning Guide CD would be your best learning tool to get the most out of your scanner. For the most accurate results, the first thing to do before scanning is to set your preferences by clicking on the Prefs button in the Control Area of the Scan Window.

When enabled, the Digital ICE quad Advanced software works well with most film. The Manual will explain that ICE, ROC, GEM, and DEE will not operate with the optional FH-G1 Medical Holder.

ICE will not work on monochrome film unless the film has been developed in colour. ICE will not work properly on Kodachrome, but will work on other brands of slides. Noise may appear if ICE is used on overexposed or very vivid images. ICE will reduce the overall sharpness of the image. ICE is not not designed nor does ICE advertise itself to remove all dust and scratches from film. ICE will reduce most of the dust and scatches, however. You will have to use a third party application like Adobe Photoshop to remove the remaining dust and scratches. ICE alone will double the scanning time of 38 seconds.

ROC may add colour to monochrome or grayscale images. ROC alone will almost double the scanning time.

GEM alone will almost triple the scanning time.

DEE works best when the image is cropped to exclude other unexposed areas of the film. DEE alone will almost quadruple the scanning time.

When enabled, Scan Image Enhancer (SIE) will automatically adjust hue. It does not work with darker images. In fact, the scan produces darker images. You are better off using DEE to pull out hidden detail in the shaded areas.

ICE, ROC, GEM, DEE, and SIE together will almost quintuple the scanning time.

Unsharp Mask can be created to all colours, or individually to red, green, blue, cyan, magenta, or yellow colours in the image. Deselect blue if you do not want to emphasize the grain in an image with blue sky.

The SA-21 strip-film adaptor only works for 2 - 6 frames. To save money by not having to buy the optional 1 - 6 frame FH-3 film holder, place a 1 frame negative into an empty cardboard slide holder and insert into the MA-21 slide holder. Remember to select Neg (color), and Calibrated RGB in the Control Area before scanning.

Along with a short USB 2.0 cable, included in the package is a Nikon View 6 CD, which is an application, used to organize saved pictures in TIFF and JPEG file formats only. According to the Manual, large files created in Nikon Scan may not show on Nikon View slide shows.

Before clicking on the Scan button, press Ctrl (MS Windows) and the Autofocus button. Then left click on a focal point in the preview image to ensure accurate focusing at that point. You can always change the focus point using the same method, or by using the Focus Tool in the Layout Tools palette. The palette can also be customized to suit.

If you have to use the Analog Gain palette to correct or adjust the colour values for each of the elements in the scanner's light source, your LED's may require repair. The probability of repair to the LED's is not specifically discussed in the Manual.

If desktop or cubbyhole space is an issue, the scanner can be placed with either the top or side vents facing up. Remember to provide the minimum clearances to the scanner for ventilation. The dual wrap around band of rubber feet will ensure a cushioned slip resistant footing.

After using the transparency unit on an Epson Perfection 1670 Photo flatbed scanner for 2 months, this COOLSCAN is the only economical equipment to use to obtain satisfying scans. It is amazing how much the original analogue images have improved.

If you have at minimum several hundred frames to archive, and the time to spend in front of your monitor performing adjustments and scans to each frame, then you will not regret overspending on this scanner.

First personal transparency scanner
Having worked with professional drum scanners (Hell Graphic Systems), I know a little about scanning. This Nikon Coolscan V ED is the first personal scanner I have worked with and am pleasantly surprised. I have inhereted the old familly slide collection and several of the slides are grossly underexposed, or darkened with age. The V ED has the sensitivity to pull out more image than I had hoped for, with very little noise. The provided software is no replacement for Photoshop, but can go a long ways to giving acceptable results without other image retouching software. I am eager to see SilverFast for the V ED however!

The only problems I've encountered is unexpected termination of the program, and mis-judging frame boundaries of negative strips. Negative scanning is a snap, an unexpected pleasure as thinking color in reverse is painful (on German drum scanners).

For the price, this is a very highly capable scanner worthy of your consideration. If your scan rate needs are high, consider the faster version, and a FAST G5 Macintosh. A 1.25 GHz G4 gets a workout on the tougher scans. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Bask in the widescreen glory of Sony's panoramic, high-definition-ready KV-30HS420 FD (flat display) Trinitron WEGA television. The 30-inch set offers analog and digital high-definition inputs, great audio features, and a suite of picture-enhancing technologies. Whether you're watching VHS tapes, DVDs, or high-definition (480p, 720p, 1080i) broadcasts, your programs will look breathtakingly good.

The set's 16:9 aspect ratio, Hi-Scan 1080i display, and picture-improvement circuitry let you view a mix of sources at high resolutions, up to 1080i. DRC--Digital Reality Creation MultiFunction circuitry--upconverts standard interlaced (480i) video sources to 960i or progressive-scan 480p, while inputs as high-quality as 720p (720 lines, progressively scanned) are upsampled to full 1080i. Because DRC processes video signals in real time, it creates an image with 4 times the density of the original signal. Sony's MID-X (Multi Image Driver) maintains the integrity of a converted signal by minimizing image loss in the scaling process.

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.

The KV-30HS420's high-voltage regulator maintains consistent image size, despite variations in b rightness during scene changes and channel changes, while magnetic quadra-pole technology reduces "beam spot" distortion and improves corner-to-corner focus and picture sharpness.

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 compares each horizontal scanning line with the lines above and below it, as well as with the corresponding lines on previous and subsequent video frames. This results in higher horizontal resolution, higher vertical resolution, and reduced video noise.

The KV-30HS420 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.

Finally, Dynamic Focus circuitry automatically adjusts the picture during each scanning line for consistent corner-to-corner sharpness.

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's HDMI interface provides a digital connection with your DTV receiver. HDMI supports standard-definition (SD), enhanced definition (ED), or high-definition (HD) video, plus multi-channel digital audio--all using a single cable.

Choose between rear AV inputs and a set of front AV inputs for extra convenience. A rear AV output offers a switchable fixed- and variable-level analog audio output for hookup with a surround receiver or integrated amplifier.

The set features stereo speakers (with 15 watts per channel) and BBE sound enhancement. You can label the set's video inputs and channels for easy selection. 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 2 speakers.

Other video technologies include auto white balance, 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-30HX1.

What's in the Box
TV, remote control (RM-Y188), 2 AA batteries, a user's manual, warranty information. ... Read more

Features

• 30-inch Hi-Scan FD Trinitron WEGA television with widescreen 16:9 aspect ratio; 35.38 x 23.75 x 22.25 inches (W x H x D)
• Offers analog and digital (HDMI) high-definition inputs and a wealth of picture-enhancing technologies
• High-voltage regulator maintains consistent image size, despite variations in brightness during scene changes and channel changes
• CineMotion Reverse 3:2 pulldown technology lets you watch progressive-scan movies in their native 24-frame format
• Stereo speakers with 15 watts per channel; SRS TruSurround simulated surround sound and BBE sound enhancement

Amazon.com Product Description

Videophiles with an eye for convenience will want to take note of Sylvania's compact 6615LE LCD television. The 15-inch set offers compatibility with progressive-scan 480p video signals (such as those from select DVD players and satellite receivers) as well as full 1080i high-definition TV signals from DTV set-top boxes. Now you can enjoy great picture quality in your kitchen, bedroom, or office without sacrificing a whole wall to a bulky TV or monitor.

The 6615LE offers a slim, 3.3-inch profile and an internal NTSC tuner for convenient broadcast-television viewing with features like auto channel setup, V-Chip parental controls, SAP (second audio program), and closed-caption decoding. Image quality benefits from a 3-line digital comb filter (which removes blurred edges between colors and reduces "dot crawl") alongside the set's native high brightness (500 candles/square meter), a high contrast ratio (500:1), and wide (170 x 155-degrees) viewing angles.

The main benefits of an LCD screen include the crystal clarity of images and their extremely compact form factor. The space-saving design of the 6615LE enables you to view television in any room of your home. And like all LCDs, this unit is immune to the distortion and negative color balances one may encounter when using a conventional CRT television near fluorescent lighting or speaker systems.

Two elliptical speakers radiate stereo sound from either side of the screen. For connections, you get 1 composite-video input for your DVD player, VCR, or other audio/video device, 1 S-video input, and a set of component-video inputs for your progressive-scan DVD player or DTV set-top box.

The onboard 181-channel tuner offers PLL frequency-synthesized tuning, picture controls (contrast, brightness, color, tint), and you can access its handy onscreen menu from the TV's front panel or from the supplied full-function remote control. Auto sleep timer/power off saves energy after a preset period of inactivity, while resume power-on will recall the set's power state following a brief power outage. The 6615LE is Energy Star-compliant.

What's in the Box
TV, remote control, remote batteries, a user's manual, and warranty information. ... Read more

Features

• Slim-profile LCD television compatible with 480p/1080i video signals; 15.2 x 14.5 x 3.3 inches (W x H x D)
• High (500 cd/m2) brightness, high (500:1) contrast ratio; wide viewing angles (170 by 155 degrees, horizontal/vertical)
• Includes 181-channel NTSC tuner and a 3-line digital comb filter to remove blurred edges between colors
• MTS/SAP stereo sound with 2 elliptical speakers; RF, composite-video, S-video, and component-video inputs
• Full-function remote control, V-Chip parental controls

Amazon.com Product Description

The Canon GL2 (like its predecessor, the GL1, and its big brother, the XL1) is helping to blur the line between consumer and professional video equipment. This camcorder borrows most of those cameras' professional-quality components and puts them into a more compact, affordable camera. Though it's small enough to carry around and doesn't cost much more than a top-of-the-line consumer camcorder, the GL2 produces such high-quality results that it could be used as a broadcast video camera.

The 3 CCD System
The GL2 maximizes the capability of the DV format by using a 3 CCD (charge-coupled device) system with a separate CCD for each primary color (red, green, blue). A beam-splitting prism separates light passing through the lens into individual color components and each is sent to its own CCD. Compared to a single CCD, the 3 CCD system achieves outstanding detail with highly accurate color reproduction suitable for the demands of high-end video production - wide dynamic range, low color noise, high-contrast detail, natural color resolution and low-aliasing. The 3 CCD system also makes advanced Pixel Shift (for increased image quality) and Low Light Recording (for increased flexibility) possible.

Professional L-Series Fluorite Lens
Canon has satisfied the demands of experienced image makers for years through the power, design and quality of 35mm and broadcast TV lenses. Canon's Professional L-Series lenses utilize Fluorite, a material which provides outstanding resolution, contrast, and color reproduction- especially in lightweight, high-magnification lenses. Incorporated into the lens on the GL2, Fluorite delivers the ultimate in clarity and image quality. The Fluorite element inside the lens defeats color aberration -- the effect when the components of light stray from one another within a lens, causing a reduction in sharpness, contrast and color. The Fluorite lens precisely controls components of light providing an excellent balance of these three critical ingredients of picture quality. This is unobtainable with conventional optical glass.

To further improve image detail, Canon has intentionally shifted the green CCD (which contains 60 percent of the picture detail) half a pixel horizontally and vertically. This shift allows more accurate interpolation, resulting in an image that Canon claims rivals those from cameras with 410,000-pixel CCDs. Each pixel is 72 square microns, which is about 1.5 times the size as those in competing camcorders. This increased size increases light sensitivity, allowing you to shoot in low-light situations.All this results in outstanding detail, with highly accurate color reproduction suitable for the demands of high-end video production. The GL2 also incorporates a 20x Professional L-Series fluorite optical zoom lens, which is equivalent to 39.5-790mm, as well as a 100x digital zoom.

Audio
The GL2's omni-directional microphone is designed to deliver realistic stereo sound. Using the GL2's advanced accessory shoe expands your audio options. Audio can be recorded in 16-bit mode on two channels on one track. Alternatively, audio can be record in 12-bit mode, where the audio track is divided into two, and two channels of audio are recorded onto one track, with the other left over for audio dubbing.

Optical Image Stabilizer
Canon's superb optical stabilization system corrects camera shake instantly so even hand held shots, at full telephoto, and shots taken from a moving car, are smooth and steady. And since it is optical, there is no loss of image quality inevitable with electronic image stabilizers. It perfectly complements the high picture quality of the DV format.

Digital Stills
You can turn your GL2 into a still camera by switching to 1.7-megapixel photo mode and capturing high-resolution still images onto the camcorder's MultiMedia/Secure Digital card. (One 8 MB Secure Digital card is included with the GL2.) The full-frame images are free from time-lag blur. A six-blade circular iris, as found on Canon's top-of-the-line XL1 and XL1S models, is used for professional exposure control, helping to deliver stunning video and still photos.

Inputs and Outputs
The GL2 comes with the standard DV IEEE 1394 port (also known as FireWire) for a super-fast, lossless connection to a PC or other DV machines. You can also connect to your PC via a USB connection to download still photos. The GL2 is designed to handle two types of analog input and output: using audio/video cables (composite) or S-video. Both connections are on the camera back.

More Features

• Three shooting modes: normal movie mode, digital photo mode, and the cinema-like frame movie mode.
• The Custom Key function lets you create and save your own custom settings so your common shooting modes can be readily duplicated.
• Digital effects are offered for a greater imaging variety, including fader, sepia, strobe motion, and black and white.
• With the Interval Timer function, you can record for a selected time with a selected interval--convenient for nature observations such as flowers or sunsets.

MiniDV Format
The Canon GL2 digital video camcorder uses the standard MiniDV cassette, producing the highest quality video possible from nonbroadcast equipment. The MiniDV format standard delivers more than 500 lines of horizontal resolution. And, because it records both video and audio as digital data, this information can be transferred--without any loss of picture or audio quality--to a computer for editing, then transferred back to DV tape, without a reduction in either picture or audio quality. ... Read more

Features

• 20x optical zoom lens (digital zoom to 100x) and image stabilizer
• 2.5-inch LCD with 270-degree rotation
• Save to MiniDV tape or MMC/SD card (8 MB SD card included)
• Record for up to 65 minutes on one battery charge

Reviews (16)

Canon Gl2 Problems I Had!!
Pros: Excellent image quality and color fidelity; 20X optical zoom; two-channel audio control; 1.7-megapixel still image capture; lightweight.

Cons: Too many controls per button; onboard microphone is omnidirectional; mediocre battery life with included cell.

Summary: An ok camera, just not what I expected. I own a Sony VX2000 and PD-150 we use in video production of homes for sale. We bought the GL2 because of the fact it was about a half pound lighter and a little smaller than the Sony cameras. The first problem is when you attache the small 3 watt Canon light, the drain on the battery is too great and shuts down the camer before the battery is one half way drained. Even with the biggest battery that Canon makes the battery life is short with their fill light. The second problem was when the telephoto zoom button failed after 70 minutes of use, making the auto zoom function useless. Now I must send the camera back to Canon only after 20 days of use. The mail order place would only take it back within 15 days. The third problem is the low light noise is a little worse on the camera when compared to the Sony VX2000 or Sony PD-150. It is not a big difference, but it is noticeable. I never had a reason to mail in a Sony camera for repairs, even after years of use. It's a dissapointment to have a new camera fail in so many ways

Canon GL2 / XM2 bad camera - WARNING!!
Great camera when I first got it, I felt like I had got something really good - so I should have, it cost me a whole load of cash.

Just after the warranty had expired, I find out the hard way that the whole line of Canon camcorders have a serious problem with the tape transport system causing the warning message "REMOVE THE CASSETTE" appearing in big red letters on the LCD. Camera will not function until expensive repairs have been carried out.(...)

Great Camera
This is a great camera with a lot of good settings available to you. I have owned a GL2 for about 6 months and just bought by second one. I have had no mechanical problems with it at all. The features that I especially like on it are: three settings of white balance (preset indoor, preset outdoor, and one you can set) this is a must if you want to shoot indoors and still have your color look right, stereo mic settings (an adjustment for both the right and left side), and you can use it as manually as you want (you can have it in total automatic mode or be able to set your shutter speed, iris, gain, focus, etc.). I use Premiere Pro and have had no problems capturing video to my PC. I did buy a bigger battery for my camera. I got the 945 on eBay for about $90. Also, make sure you get a UV haze filter for your lens. It will protect your lens from scratches and from harmful UV rays. I looked at getting an XL1s for my second camera but the main thing better in the XL1 is the ability to change your lens. Since I don't own any others right now it wasn't worth the extra money. The only thing I haven't been able to shoot is a blacklight picture. I don't think the white balance could adjust far enough. But most people won't ever run into this problem.

Best camera ever, but not for beginners
Not for the faint of heart... if you want to shoot a little league game, bbq, or basically don't have much experience with cameras this isnt the one for you. However if you have outgrown other DV cameras then by all means go ahead because it really is the greatest camera ever. I am a film student and have been using the GL2 for the past 2 years. The incredible image quality has saved many an ill fated piece. Its versatility makes it a must have for anyone who wants to shoot in a variety of situations. Bottom line, if your experienced and know exactly what you need, you can't go wrong with this camera, but if you're new too this and are unsure of the features you need, go with something cheaper.

THE BEST CAMERA FOR ANYTHING ANYWHERE REVIEW!!!!!
I have never seen a camera better than this. It is 100% perfect. The image quality will knock you out!!! The controolability is great. There are only more good things to say! I wont waist you'r time.
*YOU MUST BUY THIS CAMERA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ... Read more

Features

• Up to 4,800 x 1,200 dpi color, droplets as small as 2 picoliters
• Built-in 2.5-inch LCD to view, edit, and print, even from digital cameras
• Direct printing from memory cards and PictBridge-compatible cameras
• Automatic 2-sided printing; 6 individual ink tanks
• USB interface, Direct Print Port, IrDA port; PC/Mac compatible

Amazon.com Product Description

Portable audio takes on fresh life with quality headphones, and Sennheiser's folding, lightweight, closed-ear PXC 250 is designed to keep outside noises out and headphone sound in--perfect for use in busses and libraries alike.

Increase the peace! The PXC 250 features a noise reduction unit that cancels out background noise.

When engaged, NoiseGard active noise reduction drops steady-state low-frequency noise (from about 500 Hz and below) by 15 dB--which the human ear perceives as more than halving the noise--thus enhancing the clarity of your music. The noise reduction circuit requires 2 AAA batteries (not included), but the headphones work fine without the circuit engaged.

Sennheiser's fold and flip design lets you turn the ear pieces 90 degrees and fold the headphones closed. Their ported design lets them move more air for greater bass response.

What's in The Box
6-foot Kevlar-reinforced cord, .25-inch stereo adapter, airline adapter, belt pouch. ... Read more

Features

• Folding, lightweight, closed-ear portable headphones
• NoiseGard active noise reduction cancels steady-state noise by up to 15 dB
• Fold-and-flip design lets you turn the ear pieces 90 degrees for flat folding and easy transport
• Includes .25-inch and 2-pronged airplane adapters
• Uses 2 AAA batteries (not included), batteries required only for noise reduction

Reviews (44)

Expensive but worth it
I had a pair of Panasonic noise cancelling headphones for a while, model RP-HC100; certainly not the cheapest, but at the time they looked like the best noise cancelling set next to Bose. Then the Panasonic headphones had problems with static in one ear, and finally stopped working. It was actually a good thing though, because these Sennheisers absolutely blow those panasonics out of the water. The sound quality is indescribably better; everything sounds good on these headphones. And the noise cancellation circuitry is far better than what was in the panasonics; it seems to block out a wider range of background noise without taking away from the music. And just the headphones without the noise cancelling turned on block out a good deal of noise. They're extremely comfortable with the padded ears and headband, and compact, too. Before, I might have hesitated about spending [the money] on a pair of headphones, but after using these for a few weeks every day on the subway and buses, I have to say I'd definitely pay for them again. One note: the first pair I bought had a similar problem to the panasonics, with a noticable hiss in the left ear with noise reduction on; I simply returned them to J&R for another pair and they've been working great.

Good sound, moderately effective, flimsy
I've used the headsets for about 20 flights so far. I chose them in preference to the Bose noise-cancelling headphones because of 1) cost, 2) comfort, and 3) sound quality. They proved to be very convenient (for music listening, as well as noise cancellation). Not nearly as good as suppressing noise as Bose set, but this is mostly due to construction--the Sennheiser are light and fit over the ear; the Bose are heavier and surround the ear. On the other hand, these are more comfortable to wear (less sweating, and can also hear the flight attendant).

The sound quality is very good, and it works even without batteries.

My biggest complaint is the switch broke after 6 months (I have to poke it with a toothpick to operate): it uses a very thin plastic connector. I wish this part, which moves all the time was a bit sturdier.

--inotherworlds.com

Overall, very good
I like this unit, it was a real help on a trip with some very inconsiderate people in the vicinity. With noise-cancelling on, it really helped pick out movie dialogue- it completely enhances your enjoyment of films on a plane. It also really improves the sound of music too, although on the flight I was on even the lowest volume setting was way too loud is some cases. This unit could use an on-board volume control to combat this. The cigar shape noise cancelling thing is kind of a pain, particularly when someone wants out in the aisle and you have an extra cord to fiddle with. But it's not that bad.

The unit isn't perfect, and it doesn't seal out all noise by a long shot, but when you turn on the music or movies it goes a long way toward helping you forget that you are surrounded by a hundred strangers. You also aren't battling engine noise to hear dialogue. It makes a big difference and it will be going with me on all future flights. I had no problems with pressure or ill feeling, even after wearing it for 4hrs at a time on an int'l flight.

Great noise reduction, but a little tight and awkward to use
I purchased these for use on the subway and bus, and for use while I eat lunch outside in the middle of Washington DC. The noise reduction is wonderful, but it's noise reduction, NOT elimination. It's amazing what happens when you turn these off after using them for a while and realize how much noise pollution you haven't been subjected to. They are mostly comfortable, but just a little tight. The cords are prone to tangle a bit, but if you're mostly sitting still while you're using these, it shouldn't be a problem.

I would recommend these for purchase as long as you're not looking for total silence. These are a great way to reduce your stress from noise pollution, and terrific quality for a very reasonable price.

Very Good. Better than Sony NC20's, but not perfect.
My Sennheiser's just arrived last night. Sound is very good. Noise canceling is very good (even better than the Sony NC20's I used to have, when plugged into my laptop, I used to get feedback - 60 cycle hum when the laptop was plugged in, not a problem with the Sennheiser's).

I wish the cord was a bit longer. They fold up very compactly (excellent! very nice, good for traveling, comes with soft travel case), feel very nice on my ears & head (very light).

Only issues:

(1) the folding mechanism where the ear piece pivots to fold up makes it a bit tricky to initially position on the ear (this is an "on-the-ear" headphone rater than cover the ear style);

(2) if you're not careful in positioning the cords when putting on the headphones, the cords can transmit noise (once I figured this out, it was not a problem). ... Read more

Product Description

Pixma MP760 Photo All-In-One Printer, Print/Copy/Scan ... Read more

Features

• USB, Direct Printer Port, camera card slots; PC/Mac
• Prints photos, copies, and scans in one convenient unit
• 4,800 x 1,200 optimized dpi color, 600 x 600 dpi black resolution
• Up to 17 ppm color, 25 ppm black, 4-by-6-inch photo in about 36 seconds
• Large 2.5-inch LCD for easy viewing, editing, and printing

Reviews (7)

Some points not covered by others.
Let me start by saying my previous printer was an HP 540 bought ten years ago and I do not own a digital camera nor a scanner.

So why did I buy it? Because of the good reviews I have seen for the Pixma family, because people complaining about how the new HP printer family software installation is a bear, and complaints about Epson print heads clog if not used both here and on usenet. I bought it for home, and I have only needed to fax about twice in the last ten years, but I (we?) often need to copy, and I wanted a color printer, separate print cartridges, two paper trays. I hemmed and hawed and decided to pay the extra to get the MP760 features over the sheet feeder of the MP750. A digital camera will probably be next electronics purchase.

First some notes
- Another website said this printer has a parallel port. It does not. Not a big deal.
- It works over USB 1.1. Not as fast, but if you are like me and would rather put the money for a USB 2.0 card into a new PC, you are not out of luck. You do need a USB OS. I am using XP Pro.
- You do not need the PC turned on to copy or print pictures from memory cards OR from negatives or slides! But, when printing from negatives it will NOT let you print to plain paper. I don't know about scanning then printing, I would have to try it out.
- The slide and negative holders are stored in the underside of the scanner lid. When you unsnap this carrier it exposes a white strip that appears to be a light source for scanning negatives or slides.
- The memory slots come up as removable disk drive under XP, one does not have to use them for just digital picture files. Its a nice feature for me, since my home computer's USB slots are in the back and both are used. I have a SanDisk MobileMate SD to USB converter, I can put files on it at work, then take the memory out and upload with the MP760.
- No thick all encompassing manual, but rather printed quick start guides and the full manuals installed in HTML format on your PC.
- Two TWAIN drivers are installed. One limits you to 600 DPI when scanning. Need to be scanning negatives or slides to get to 2400 DPI (someone correct me if I am wrong).
- Two paper trays - one is a cassette down at the very bottom, the other is an automatic sheet feeder from the rear.

Random blathering opinions ---
- The print quality is great, but I don't have alot to compare it to.
- Reasonably quiet. Other manf's models made beeps. I don't want to wake up the kids when printing at night.
- Big. And you need even more room with the sheet feeder in the rear and the door to open in the front for finished prints to come out.
- I would rather have the manuals in PDF over HTML.
- Getting at and installing the print head and cartridges is harder than the Deskjet 540. There is some sort of prop rod, that needs to be unlatched to get it back down, and two doors in front of the print cartridges.
- A consumer magazine states that each photo print costs about $0.85 on an MP780, and at the store near me its $0.29 for digital prints. But then again I can make a print right NOW if I wanted to.
- Manual says you should not to just drop the power to it, you have to press the ON/OFF button and wait. Annoying, and what happens if the power goes out? What about when it is in sleep mode? Would be nice if the PC powers down it assumes it should power down, or at least be an option.

I can personally vouch that it copies color or grayscale, scans with PC color or grayscale, prints directly from film negative to photo paper, prints from PC, and no software problems thus far. Everything else I either can't test it (like the PictBridge) or have not had the time.

Overall, I'm glad I waited this long to buy an MFC and I'm glad I waited a bit longer for the MP760.

Does itfax?
Could any one please tell me if this machine does scan to fax??? I have fax program in my XP.There were so many good reviews about this AIO, so it is hard to let go, but I need to use fax at least once a week.I have also considered MP780, but it doesn't come with the negative slide,thanks.

Which Canon Multifunction is right for you?
First off, if you're in the market for a printer, you can't go wrong with a Canon.Canon printers consistently beat out the competition in independent tests for print quality.Their items are elegant, well designed, and most importantly, ink is affordable.

We all know the razor and blade scheme: sell the printer below cost and make it up with pricey cartridges.Canon, however, saves you a lot of money by including the print head with the printer and not on each cartridge.Because of this, genuine Canon cartridges can be had for around $12, while 3rd party cartridges, which many claim work just as well, can be found for as low as $2.

If you've already decided on a Canon multifunction, lets see which model is right for you.Canon's current market list is as follows:

MP130 - New model, and the most affordable yet.
Copy/Print/Scan
18ppm black, 13ppm color
2 ink tanks
No auto sheet feeder!
Card slots

MP390 - Has a fax, About half the cost of the MP7xx's.
Copy/Print/SCan/Fax
18ppm black, 12 ppm color
2 ink tanks
card slots

MP750 - Older model - exactly the same as mp780 but no fax.
Copy/Print/Scan
25ppm black, 17 ppm color
5 ink tanks
Built in Duplexing

MP760 - New Model - geared towards photo enthusiasts.
Copy/Print/Scan + Special Photo Features
25ppm black, 17 ppm color
5 ink tanks
No auto sheet feeder!
Built in Duplexing
*Unique photo features:
2.5 inch lcd screen
Built in film adapter for 35mm slides or negatives
can print directly from negatives
Card slots

MP780 - Does it all except for the mp760 photo features.
Copy/Print/Scan/Fax
25ppm black, 17 ppm color
5 ink tanks
Built in Duplexing

Now, let's look more closely at some key differences between these models:

*Fax: The first thing you should do is decide if you need a fax or not. If you do, you should choose between the MP780 or the MP390.If not, don't rule those two out just yet, they may have have other features you can't live without.

*Note: There is NO auto fax/telephone switching on these models if you wish to use the same line for faxes and voice calls.

*Number of ink tanks: The next important thing you should look at is whether you want to be able to replace each color individually or not.The MP750, MP760 and MP780 all have 5 individual ink tanks (photo black, black, cyan, yellow, magenta), while the MP130 and MP390 have only 2 (black and tricolor).The cost of each cartridge is about the same, but you will waste some leftover ink by throwing out the MP130 or MP390's color cartridge when just one color runs out.

*Photo printing: If you're planning on printing a lot of photos, you should probably go with an mp7xx.These have a superior print head, as well as the 5 separate ink tanks.The MP760 is especially noteable with all the features Canon has added specifically for photos.These come at a price however, as the MP760 does not share the auto sheet feeder of its MP750 and MP780 cousins, or the fax of the 780.

*However - If you plan on printing directly from memory cards, beware!The mp750 and mp780 do not have card slots!The 2 cheaper models and the mp760 do.

*Auto sheet feeder: The mp130 and mp760 do NOT have an auto sheet feeder.All 3 of the others do.An auto sheet feeder is very useful when doing a lot of scanning or faxing.

*Duplexing: The mp7xx models each have built in duplexing.

*Size: The mp7xx models weigh around 30 pounds and are quite big.The MP390 is a smaller, and weighs 18 pounds.The mp130 has a tiny footprint for a multifunction printer, and weighs 14 pounds.

Some features that all of Canon's current MFPs share:

*Copying: Each of these models has a copy function, and all have the same resolution (600x600 black, 1200x1200 color).
*USB 2.0 connection
*Pictbridge direct photo printing support
*All 5 models are great looking and will complement almost any decor.

My recommendations:

If you want a great price on an excellent printer and don't need a fax: MP130

If price is an issue but you still need a fax: MP390

If you can afford an MP700 series and don't need a fax, card slots, or the MP760's photo features: MP750

If you need its exclusive photo features (but no fax or auto sheet feeder): MP760

If you can afford an MP700 series and need a fax (but no card slots and none of the MP760s photo features): MP780

You will be glad you bought it
I have had this printer for a couple of weeks and it does everything Canon's description says and it does it well.The included software gives you options for printing photos and scanning that range from fully automatic (simple) to using wizards (need to make some decisions) to full control of everything (got to read the manual).Pictures come out looking great and text is sharp.It has two paper sources so that you can switch between different papers without having to fumble with a paper tray, built in two-sided paper printing (duplexing) and a real plus, it has a built-in memory card reader so you can print directly or easily and quickly transfer info. to your computer from most any kind of memory card.

The only problem I have had, and that you may also have, has somthing to do with how the printer uses my computer's USB2 ports.I have a laser printer connected to one of these ports and if it and the Canon are both connected when I boot up the computer, the computer's USB controller experiences some kind of conflict between these printing devices and resolves the conflict by disabling some of the Canon's functions.I called Canon's tech. support, which, by the way, is free during your warranty year. After going through a few prompts I was quickly connected with a support person (not outsourced!) who was knowledgeable and patiently helped me troubleshoot the problem.Tech talk: something to do with computer bios, the USB controller and how the Canon is programmed to use the USB hub.In any case, he said I would have to call my computer maker for help in changing computer codes.My quick, if not elegant solution, was to unplug the laser printer from the USB until boot up was complete and then plug it back in.Problem solved!This didn't work if I unplugged the Canon and instead left the laser printer connected during boot up.Hope this helps.

Bottom line...You won't go wrong if you get this printer.

Very impressed
So far, so very very good.This printer creates great photos on glossy paper and does very well with black tiny text on injet paper.But most of all, I'm impressed with its speed.It's the fastest printer I've ever owned (maybe that says more about me than the printer) so I'm extremely happy.

The only issue I have with this printer is that its front buttons (copy, scan, film, photo) do not work with my Macintosh.I use system 10.3.8 and pressing the buttons does *nothing*. However, everything works if you use the included (excellent) software.If I'm looking for other things to complain about, I'd say it's a bit heavy & large.It woudn't fit in the cabinet where my old printer did. ... Read more

Product Description

Slim, light and beautiful, Samsung's LCD Flat Panel TVs combine sleek looks and high performance. These HDTV-ready and HDTV sets let you enjoy regular TV and display HDTV images from any High-Definition source. Samsung's Patterned Vertical Alignment (PVA) screens provide high contrast and brightness for lifelike images with realistic colors. ... Read more

Features

• 3 watts per channel x 2; SRS TruSurround XT simulates dynamic surround sound from any 2 speakers
• HD-ready widescreen LCD television with 23-inch PVA screen; 23 x 17.4 x 3.5 inches (W x H x D) without stand
• 1,366 x 768 native pixel resolution; accepts HD signals up to full 1080i; includes HDMI and PC inputs
• Amazing 3,000:1 contrast ratio, high 500 cd/m2 brightness, broad 170-degree viewing angles (H x V)
• Samsung DNIe (Digital Natural Image engine) enhances images; features a 181-channel NTSC tuner

Reviews (3)

Best LCD Picture I've Ever Seen
I just received this TV today and am more than pleased. The picture is brilliant, and setting it up with my progrssive scan DVD player was a snap. The picture is EXCELLENT. Highly recommended. The 23-inch size is larger than I expected, it really fills up the rooms with picture and sound.

Better than I imagined!!
I shopped around for a couple of weeks and looked at several brands.I thought the Samsung had the best picture and was $150-$200 less than comparable brands (Sony).I looked for the best price on the Web, and found it for just under $850 at some internet sites.On a whim, I checked Amazon and was blown away.It was around $850 from a Amazon (a reputable dealer), PLUS I could return it within 30 days if there were any problems.None of the other Web dealers offered that.So I ordered it, paid a paltry $16 for shipping and it arrived 4 days later in perfect condition.

I set it up, hooked it into my HD cable box (ComCast) with component cables (I still need to get the HDMI cable) and tuned in a HD channel.I WAS BLOWN AWAY!!!It was far better than I imagined.I tuned in Pulp Fiction on HD-HBO and could actually see the individual hairs on Samuel L Jackson's fro!The color contrast was brilliant.

Now, like most LCD TVs the picture quality is just OK on the non-HD broadcasts, but I'm willing to live with this for now b/c most channels are moving to HD.

You can't go wrong with this TV or the price/experience with Amazon.

paleale1
I'm not sure how I lucked out with deal but I'm not going to complain.I went to Circuit City to look for a 20+ inch LCD TV and compared 10-15, really leaning towars the Sony or Samsung models.When I was about to leave the salesperson asked if I had seen the LNR238W yet.They hadn't received any in the store yet but it was on their website as a 'Coming Soon' item for $1,099.I went home and looked online for the model and was able to find it on Amazon for $850.00 with shipping.I bought it that same day and am glad I did.The best part of this TV by far is the picture quality.It's gives a nice crisp picture on any channel and handles fast motion with ease.The only issue I have is that it doesn't provide wall mounts that will work with this model, so for now I have it on it's base.All in all, it was a great deal and I'm surprised that Amazon is now asking $1,000 for the same model two weeks later. ... Read more

Product Description

The EX-Z750's 7.2 megapixel CCD imaging element delivers superior picture quality with remarkably high definition, while the optical 3X zoom lens and large 2.5-inch liquid crystal display assure enjoyable operation. In addition to manual operation, an extremely versatile array of shooting functions enables a variety of photo effects. Using MPEG-4 format, high quality movies can also be taken in VGA size (640 x 480 pixels) at 30 frames per second. Of course, longer battery life enables the shooting of approximately 325 shots (CIPA standards)* on a battery charge. When set in its cradle, A/V signal output allows the user to view the photos or movies taken on an external video monitor such as television. The EX-Z750 is ideal for consumers who are looking to create superior images in challenging lighting conditions. Photographers can select aperture priority, shutter priority, or simply select from several unique Best Shot modes to enhance the images. The 0.9-second continuous shooting mode and low light assist, help capture sharp images such as fast action or low light scenes. The pre-record or Past Movie mode continuously captures 5 seconds of video automatically into buffer memory to ensure that the user records the critical video prior to pushing the shutter. Consumers can also select from several different Movie Best Shot modes and do simple video editing within the camera. ... Read more

Features

• Super-life battery enables up to 325 shots on a single charge
• Powered by Lithium-ion rechargeable battery (included, with charger); stores images on SD cards (camera features 8.3MB of internal memory)
• 7-megapixel CCD captures enough detail for photo-quality 15 x 20-inch prints
• 3x optical zoom; large 2.5-inch LCD display
• High-speed start-up enables shooting approximately 0.9 seconds after the power is turned on

Reviews (3)

A pocket camera for people who appreciate photography
I have been giving less and less credibility to the so-called digital camera reviewing websites lately as cameras get past the gee-whiz-gadget stage and become true instruments of photography.The sites are ok when they talk about their interpretations of published specs but they leave me cold when it comes to how good a digital camera is at making a memorable photograph.Things like start-up time, internal memory capacity, and battery life are good to know because if a camera scores really badly on certain specs it can become a chore to use.

I have preached the mantra that "more megapixels doesn't mean a better picture" for years and I still believe it, but I also believe that some of the newer high megapixel cameras are also giving us better lenses and processors, which are the two main things that makes one digital camera better than another.And I've resisted getting suckered into the thing about some manufacturers putting exotic-sounding names on their lenses.All that means is that they paid to license the lens name, it doesn't mean each lens is hand made in the Black Forest by old bearded craftsmen.

Those same review sites mentioned above seem to kiss the feet of anything with the name Canon on it to the point of putting their independent review status in severe jeopardy.Yes, Canon makes some good cameras but they really don't have any more real experience in the business than most other DIGITAL brands and in my estimation they consistently fall just short of the mark.Yeah, most people buy them, but then again most people eat at McDonalds.

So what do I think is the very best all around digital camera on the market?To me it's the Nikon D70S - priced right, near perfect design, and slightly more accurate at capturing images than the Canon counterpart.But I don't want to lug a huge camera and a bag of lenses around with me all the time, that's why I was so excited when digital cameras were invented, so I could leave my old Nikon SLR on the shelf and be prepared to make good photographs wherever I happened to go.

Since I put the old film cameras into semi-retirement, I have had digital cameras from Panasonic, Canon, Olympus and HP and they were all adequate but suffered from that "chore" syndrome mentioned above with their horrendous shutter lag, dismal startup time and wretched battery life.This time I wanted a camera I could truly carry in my pants pocket, yet has a good (no make that great) lens, excellent battery life, as many manual features as I could get in a tiny package, and something that didn't feel like a plastic toy.

I considered Panasonic Lumix, Canon, Nikon and Sony.The other brands had some good stuff but didn't seem to fill my desire for a true photographer's quality instrument.Sony got the boot fairly fast.They are such a fine company, why can't they make a camera that actually takes a great picture?

I am intrigued by Lumix, the quality of the pictures seems first-class, I love the image stabilizer, and they are very feature-rich, but most of the pocket-size models feel just a little cheesy.Canon makes pocket cameras that take good pictures, but I feel Canon is resting on their reputation instead of trying to build a product that's worth the asking price.

And Nikon would have come in a strong second, just missing first place in the area of weak ergonomics.I never seriously considered Casio, ok maybe for a watch or calculator, but I asked myself what they would know about photography.Turns out they know a lot.They've actually been making digital cameras longer than almost anyone, and when it comes to the right buttons in the right place they are geniuses.I'll go further than that, the whole concept of the Exilim EX-Z750 is genius.It you total up all it offers I would have to give it the honor of being the only perfect pocket-size digital camera on the market.

As soon as I touched on I was impressed by its quality.It feels like it's machined out of block of solid aluminum (its not).The controls give you nearly everything you will every want using buttons that make sense and don't require you to go many levels deep in the menu.I love the HUGE 2.5" LCD screen but no LCD screen is fully useful in direct sunlight no matter what anyone says, so Casio thoughtfully brought back the optical viewfinder.

It seems 9 out of 10 reviewers who mention the optical viewfinder say they hate it because it's so tiny.Who cares?It's there when you need it, and it's sharp and clear.If it makes the difference between getting a priceless picture or missing it, I'll take a tiny viewfinder anytime.

The EX-Z750 starts up and is ready to shoot by the time I get my finger from the off/on switch to the shutter release.Can't be any faster than that.I have still not found any instance where shutter lag has caused me to miss what I wanted to capture, in other words there really isn't any shutter lag in real life.

Rather than go into every detail of the camera, I'll mention a few of the biggest high points that sets this camera apart from every other one in the category.

1. The EX-Z750 remembers the zoom position when you turn it off and back on again.I have dreamt of a feature like this!There are so many times I have had the camera all set up and had to turn it off to wait for something to be ready, only to have to turn a camera back on and make several readjustments.With the EX-Z750 I can turn it back on and EVERYTHING is set exactly the way I left it.

2. Some cameras have some limited function to remember favorite settings, the EX-Z750 seems to have the ability to remember nearly everything without having to commit it to a special "favorites" position on a switch or dial.So if I like -1 saturation (and this camera is slightly oversaturated in its default position) I can leave it at -1 forever.

3. You can turn the camera on and off with the on/off switch, or you can turn it on and off using the "record" "play" buttons to go directly to that mode.How cool is that?

4. The EX button makes it possible to very quickly adjust four of the most important shooting parameters without ever going into the menu mode.

5. The movie mode is incredible, and offers several unique features including a unique pre-movie that's already recording before you push the record button ... kinda like the way TIVO works ... it's weird and insanely brilliant.After seeing the quality I wonder who in their right mind would lug along a camcorder no matter how small it is on those trips to Disneyland when the EX-Z750 can take outstanding still pictures AND decent video in a camera you can hide in the palm of your hand.

6. Live RGB histogram?On a camera the size of a deck of cards (smaller actually)?WOW!

7. Battery life is one of the best in the industry.

8. 30 scene modes!Yeah I know I said I wanted something to take professional quality photographs and I wanted manual overrides, but sometimes you don't want to spend 10 minutes setting the camera like when the sun is setting in 30 seconds.I can't believe how versatile the scene modes are.

Last but not least, the picture quality is shocking.I compared two pictures taken at the same time of the same scene with the EX-Z750 and the $1300 Nikon D70S.I showed them side-by-side to several people who should have been able to tell the difference.Nobody could.

The negative side?Slight oversaturation as it comes out of the box.For snapshots it may help most people make a blah picture look a little more exciting.For someone more critical, just set the new default to -1 and you've got yourself a low-price, pocket-size D70S.To the reviewers who can't figure that out, get over it and go get a job at McDonalds.

The other small negative is that I love panorama assist.I take a lot of panorama pictures and I can't figure out how Casio missed putting in this one obvious feature.Must be some fear they have of absolute total perfection ;-) I rate the Casio EX-Z750 a 10 out of 10

Great Technological Marvel!
Pros: Movie mode, easy to use, compact, great battery life!

Cons: Included software is not great. Can't convert to Casio's M4S2 video format (MPEG-4 codec)

Question: What great name brands do you think of when you hear "digital cameras"?Certainly Kodak, Sony, Canon, Olympus... but Casio?I didn't even know Casio made digital cameras until I bought this camera!

In early May 2005, I was looking into purchasing my first digital mini camcorder from Panasonic. In fact, I had already ordered it when I came across this gem. I immediately returned the camcorder and ordered this camera.

The video quality is awesome at HQ mode 640 x 480 30 fps. Yes, it may not be as good as DV quality but who really wants to work with DV or mini-DV tapes (the whole concept seems so primitive). Anyway, working with SD cards is so much faster and easier. A 1GB SD card can store over 30 minutes of video at its highest setting, and twice that amount at its standard setting. So, I went ahead and purchased a 2GB to give me over an hour of high quality video recording.

Along with its digital video features, I also got a 7.2 megapixels digital camera which has now officially replaced my Sony P52. This camera is easier, faster, slimmer than my Sony and I love the quality of the pictures. I also love that I can actually put it in my shirt pocket and take it anywhere.

In addition, I like the dock station since I have it plugged next to my TV and watch the videos and pictures on my TV. And yes, you can transfer pictures and videos via a card reader which most people already have (so you don't need the dock to transfer videos and pictures if you have a card reader for your PC).

At eBay I purchased an extra battery charger and battery for about $25 and those generic brands work just as well (just type "NP-40 battery").Amazon also sells the generic NP-40 battery for less than $14.00 vs $39-$49 for the Casio brand.

The only drawback has been the M4S2 video MPEG-4 codec that Casio used. Some video editors can't read the format without a video conversion.Ulead VideoStudio 9 and Adobe Premiere Elements reads M4S2 codec without any trouble.

Likewise, it would have been great if Casio had included a video converter (like Panasonic's MediaStage and MovieStage software) so that you can transfer your PC videos or edited videos back to the camera for easy viewing on its whopping 2.5" screen or TV. In fact, if this was possible, the Casio EX-Z750 could even become a portable video player as well (a la Archos or Creative Zen Player).I understand that AVS Media and VideoCharge will be working and updating their software to convert to M4S2 format. I can't wait!

Overall, this is a great digital camera and mini video recorder for a great price! Casio is going to make a lot of money on this camera and will become well respected for its digital cameras.... and rightly so!

Features abound without compromising the ease of use
People might go to Cannon for camera expertise, but Casio once again proves to be a leading authority that I prefer over other top companies for digital cameras.I bought a 4 megapixel Exilim 2 years ago and it's still impressing me even past its initial excitement and facilitation of a segway for me into the world of photography. This Exilim improves upon this line of camera's already easy interface with countless new features.Whether you're a beginner or a pro, this camera will quench your photography cravings on the spot and capture any type of scene the way you remember it.

On first glance you'll notice its miniscule size.Its display is a huge 2.5" and crystal clear.The new bestshot picture mode has over 30 presets and there is also a new bestshot video mode with several cool effects for video.On the video bestshot mode there is a setting so your movies will look like old Silent Films.A monochrome filter is set and the speed is slightly faster so it looks like an old time movie.Other new presets to this camera are Soft Running Water, Sports, Anti-Shake in addition to the others that cover any picture opportunity right when it happens.

The response time in all aspects of the interface is blazing fast.The selector wheel is a good new touch for the Exilim and it's large enough to manuever well while not compromising the camera's tiny size.There are many ways to access the menu from buttons on the side and back.The speed, aperture, etc are all able to be manually selected so this camera is perfect for a first timer as well as an avid photographer.The only downside is the price, but for 7.2 megapixels?I'll take it.

Some might say there is no use in getting a 7.2 megapixel pocket sized camera, but I mean to tell you that the pictures this Exilim takes are absolutely stunning.Not only are almost double the size my 4mp takes but the clarity and definition creates a world that's worth a million words.You can't lose with this camera if you've got the cash.And if you don't have the cash, pick the Exilim within your budget and you'll still be thrilled. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Garmin's pocket-sized eTrex Vista C handheld GPS unit combines Garmin's popular eTrex Vista with color, automatic routing, and longer battery life, making it one of the smallest, least expensive waterproof products to combine a color TFT display and advanced GPS auto-routing abilities. You won't miss a thing when you take this lightweight, easy-to-use handheld out hiking, biking, boating, or geocaching.

The unit offers a bright, transflective color TFT display with daylight viewability, automatic route generation, off-route recalculation, turn-by-turn directions with alert tones, and icon-driven menus for finding points of interest (when combined with Garmin's optional MapSource CDs). You'll get up to 20 hours of use on two AA batteries. The unit offers 24 MB of internal memory and its mini-USB port lets you download map data rapidly from Garmin's library of MapSource CDs (not included) using your PC.

A crisp color display makes map reading much easier than on previous black-and-white versions.

You'll enjoy outstanding accuracy of less than 3 meters (10 feet) when the device is enabled to receive enhanced GPS signals from the Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS) in the United States, and of 15 meters or less in normal GPS mode. Like on all eTrex units, the primary controls are located on the unit's side, so you can operate them with one hand. With the innovative rocker switch on the unit's face, you can input data and scroll through menus or pan the map page.

Other key features include an auto-route basemap (featuring general map data, including highways, major roads, rivers, lakes, and borders), a waterproof design (to IEC 60529 IPX7 standards--submersible in 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes), 500 waypoints/routes/tracks (with graphic identification), 50 reversible routes, 20 saved tracks, 10,000 trackpoints, TracBack technology, alarms (waypoint proximity, anchor drag, and off-course, as well as a built-in alarm clock), a GPS patch antenna, selectable audio tones and color schemes, a stopwatch, a hunting/fishing calendar, sun/moon calculations, and a trip computer.

The Vista C also features an electronic compass for accurate bearing information while standing still; a barometric altimeter with local pressure and a 48-hour automatic pressure-trend recorder; and an elevation computer (which provides your current elevation, ascent/descent rate, minimum/maximum elevation, total ascent and descent, average and maximum ascent, and descent rate).

The barometric-pressure-based altimeter displays up-to-the-minute information.

The Vista C includes a built-in, permanent basemap, Americas Recreational, which cannot be altered. The Americas Recreational Routable Basemap v2 includes the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Central and South America, and covers the area from longitude 30 to 180 degrees west and latitude 60 degrees south to 75 degrees north. The basemap includes a high-level worldwide map featuring borders and major cities.

Standard map coverage includes oceans, rivers, lakes greater than 30 square miles, lakes greater than 5 square miles in the United States and southern Canada, lakes greater than 10 square miles in central and northern Canada, principal cities, some smaller cities and towns, major interstates, principal highways, political boundaries (state and international borders), major airports, and a database of Interstate exits. This last includes many establishments within about 1/4 mile of exits, including restaurants; diesel and gas stations; hotels, motels, and inns; overnight RV parking; dumps; campgrounds; truck stops; medical facilities; shopping and outlet malls; ATMs; and many other attractions.

What's in the Box
The eTrex Vista C, a basemap (Americas Recreational), the MapSource trip and waypoint manager CD, a PC-USB interface cable, a wrist strap, a quick-reference guide, a user's manual, and warranty information. ... Read more

Features

• 256-color, sunlight-readable display makes it easy to distinguish map details and see where you're going
• Automatic route generation, off-route recalculation, turn-by-turn directions with alert tones, and icon-driven menus for finding points of interest (when combined with Garmin's optional MapSource CDs) navigate you safely to your destination
• An electronic compass provides accurate bearing information while standing still; an elevation computer provides current elevation, ascent/descent rate, etc
• Mini-USB port for fast, convenient download of map data from Garmin's entire library of optional MapSource CDs (using a PC)
• 20-hour battery life; 24 MB internal memory

Amazon.com Product Description

High speed, sharp resolution, and economical ink refills: Could you ask for more in a home printer? The Canon PIXMA ip3000 is designed with 1,600 nozzles that produce tiny 2-picoliter droplets, resulting in finely detailed images that are worthy of saving in your family photo albums. Pigment-based inks insure colors will stay true, and the prints are resistant to water, fading, and smudges.

With resolution up to 600 x 600 dpi black and 4,800 x 1,200 dpi color, your office documents or school reports will look as good as your photos. Built-in two-sided printing reduces your paper costs and allows you truly professional design options. Top speeds of 22 ppm black and 15 ppm color (draft mode) will have your pages in hand in just a few seconds; a borderless 4-by-6-inch photo can take as little as 36 seconds--as fast as those old instant cameras, but with much better quality. Thanks to the PictBridge-compatible direct print port, you can connect your digital camera and churn out photos while bypassing your computer system.

The ip3000 is compatible with Mac and Windows operating systems, and requires only a USB cable to get it up and running (cable not included). Canon provides a one-year warranty covering parts and service.

What's in the Box
PIXMA iP3000 photo printer, PIXMA iP3000 print head, BCI-3eBk black ink tank, BCI-6C cyan ink tank, BCI-6M magenta ink tank, BCI-6Y yellow ink tank, Canon Photo Paper Plus Glossy 4x6 sample pack, power cord, documentation kit, setup software and user's guide on CD-ROM; printer cable not included ... Read more

Features

• Up to 4,800 x 1,200 dpi color resolution
• Up to 22 ppm black, 15 ppm color; 4-by-6-inch photo in about 36 seconds
• Built-in 2-sided printing; 4 individual ink tanks
• Direct print port, PictBridge compatible
• USB interface; PC and Mac compatible