Nikon D800 36.3 MP CMOS FX-Format Digital SLR Camera (Body Only)

Customer Ratings:
List Price: $2,999.95
Sale Price: $2,796.95
Today's Bonus: 7% Off

I know that the D800 is not really the replacement model over the D700. Nevertheless, it did replace my old D700 and the D800 is, I believe, better suited for my photographic needs than the D700, i.e., studio, portraits, and landscape.

The D700 was and still is an outstanding DSLR. The D800 is of course better, but in a very perceptible way, which was quite a surprise to me.

I have done over 5000 shots since my purchase on 24 March. So far, no issues to report: no green cast from the LCD and no problems with the CLS system.

Nikon has really outperformed with this new DSLR and the clear improvements are:

Much improved Dynamic Range, which was my main problem since my first DSLR

Better colors straight off the camera: deeper and richer

Better AF in low light ***UPDATE*** After comparing with older Nikon DSLRs, this improvement is minor and only perceptible on cross-type AF points.

Highly detailed photographs at full res, 100% magnification and also when down-scaling the photos.

Let's not forget a proper and useable HD video feature at broadcasting quality. ***UPDATE*** Perhaps not broadcasting quality, but close enough.

On the negative side (there has to be some):

The zoom in and zoom out buttons are reversed from the old models, which is now more logical, but I am used to the old wrong way! it's a minor problem of course.

D4 has backlit buttons, why not on the D800? This can't be that expensive to include.

Very expensive Battery pack, this is a major drawback for me. But yes, the D800 is well priced at $3000. I just hate ridiculously priced accessories.

still wonder the point of having 1 CF slot and 1 SD slot. 2 CF slots would have been superb. But I guess if you come from a SD card DSLR, that would be practical for you.

Left AF points can suffer from front/back focusing issues on wide angle lenses, but this can be fixed at a Nikon repair center under warranty ***UPDATE***

One crucial point that has to be considered when acquiring a 36MP DSLR: storage will be an issue. I just purchased a 4TB ext hard drive. A 14-bit RAW file (uncompressed) coming from the D800 will average 75MB.

I just shot a wedding, and I consider the D800 to be an excellent choice for the job. All the complains about shots being more blurry at 100% magnification are irrelevant. One has to be precise with his/her settings, at the right exposure and optimal shutter speed, results can be absolutely mind-blowing. And since most won't need 36MP for wedding photographs, down-scaling images will certainly eliminate slight camera-shake or noise.

One particular aspect that I appreciate is that my Nikkor 85mm f/1.4G is now tack-sharp at f/1.4. I had a front focusing issue with my old D700 even with the fine-tune option set to max. Since I'm no techie geek, I still don't understand why the D700 gave me problems with the 85mm.

Anyway, I used to be one of those people saying that digital photography will never replace film photography. The D800 has changed all that.

Click Here For Most Helpful Customer Reviews >>

Read More >>

Canon PowerShot SX50 HS 12.1 MP Digital Camera with 50x Optical

Customer Ratings:
List Price: $534.99
Sale Price: $389.95
Today's Bonus: 27% Off

Main objection, other than soft photos, is that the control dial cannot be reliably used [as necessary in manual mode for selecting shutter speed and aperture, and for manual focusing] without inadvertently pressing, and thus actuating, one of the other functions on the wheel, typically the iso but sometimes the self timer, although there are two other functions that can be pressed as well, putting the camera into a different configuration. This poor design places this otherwise nice point-and-shoot superzoom camera in a class all by itself...a compromise at best. A redesign with a much stronger spring to actuate the four functions would probably fix this deficiency. Not sure of Canon's track record of installing kits to correct known problems. If the camera will not be used in manual mode and if soft photos are ok, the camera would be quite acceptable. The HD capability, slow motion, as well as numerous other features are cool, but not at the expense of manual mode. Oh, the battery is fantastic...made well over 400 shots on one charge. Beats rechargable AA batteries (that will not work in my other Canon or probably any other Canon).

Click Here For Most Helpful Customer Reviews >>

Read More >>

Sony DSLR 50mm F/2.8 Macro Alpha Digital SLR Camera Lens

Customer Ratings:
List Price: $598.00
Sale Price: Price Unavailable
Today's Bonus: 4% Off

Easy to use right out of the box. My skills are a hobbyist and not professional, but my photos with this lens are incredible the first time out. Great lens...!

Click Here For Most Helpful Customer Reviews >>

Read More >>

Pentax K-X 12.4 Megapixel Digital SLR and 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 DAL

Customer Ratings:

I was looking for a starter DSLR, and after a little research I decided this would be a good choicetrust me, it was. Don't let the pink fool you, it gives great results even in low light. Once you play with it a little, you'll find it's easy to switch to fully manual mode to capture images exactly how you want. It was a big step up from my point and shoot, but it wasn't intimidating because everything is easy to figure out. As soon as I got it, I started playing around with it and taking great pictures without even reading the manual (I did later go back and read it though). I enjoy having the option of an automatic or manual focus, and I especially love how responsive the shutter is (the one on my point and shoot fired kind of slowly and I missed some good shots because of it). The filters are really neat tooI especially love the toy camera filter because I'm into lomography. It won't replace your Holga or Diana, but it's close enough!

If you're looking to step up from your point and shoot to something more sophisticated, this is the camera for you. It's not super expensive as far as DSLRs go, which is another reason I chose to get it. I'm just an amateur and don't plan on becoming a professional photographer, but if I changed my mind, I think this camera would allow me to keep up with all the Nikon and Cannon owners. I am very very glad I got this cameraI adore it!

Click Here For Most Helpful Customer Reviews >>

Read More >>

8 Channel DVR CCTV Ultimate Mini Series D1 Realtime Security

Customer Ratings:
List Price: $895.78
Sale Price: $518.00
Today's Bonus: 42% Off

This might be an OK buy for someone who really likes to fiddle around with software, and treat learning the user interface as a mystery game such as MYST, figuring out puzzles and such. I believe the hardware is pretty decent, and so if you are inclined to spend time learning the software you could end up with a pretty usable DVR.

My journey started with receiving the DVR without the promised 1TB drive. My first call to customer support (to be far from the last!) got the drive sent out and a week later I had it, installed it, and plugged everything in. I was hoping to control the unit remotely using the supplied PSS software. This software, obviously written by a Chinese technophile, is filled with all sorts of cryptic options. You can do anything with this software if only you can figure out all the hidden places the related functions must be controlled from. The seller has tried to make life easier by offering lots of online videos to walk you through procedures -but these shouldn't be necessary. Don't even bother wasting time with the manual it is unusable.

Being the MYST type, after several days of playing around I finally got the unit working almost how I want it. (The secret is to left click the DVR in the Device list, the right click the IP address that pops up, and navigate to "Advanced" which has a hidden sub-menu called "Device Config" -no, I'm not making this up.) Everything else on the very cluttered interface is mainly just distraction from getting to this core menu where most of the actual configuration takes place.

Rather than a new video game, I recommend this unit as just as entertaining, and you'll end up with something useful if you can crack it.

Click Here For Most Helpful Customer Reviews >>

Read More >>

HP Mini 110-4250NR 10.1-Inch Netbook (Black)

Customer Ratings:

I am very confused with all the recent 1 star reviews of this netbook. I bought this a couple weeks ago, and so far i love it. I recently went on vacation and brought this with me just to get used to it as i plan to use this on campus when i need my own computer for college.

1. The stock ram amount is not enough, plan to upgrade before you even try to use it. I knew this before i bought it and bought a 2GB stick for 10$ on amazon. I replaced it in under a minute before i even booted it up. I can run chrome, steam and office no problem now.

2. People saying the processor is slow? No.... You must being using this wrong, because mine has no problem doing internet. yet you say yours is slow on internet? You sure its not just slow wifi? lol

3. I can run Grand Theft Auto San Andreas on this on low or medium setting with basically no lag. This thing is a tiny little netbook and you can run GTA SA on it. Saying its slow is no argument for not knowing how to use a computer...

I always have Coretemp running (usually in 50's [Degrees C]) to tell me how hot its getting and CPU meter to tell me how the CPU and Ram are doing. Never any problems with what i do on it and ive tried more than the average netbook user im betting. lol

Basically i am very happy with my purchase, once again HP has out done themselves....

Also the Space key doesn't always work, which is kinda true. But you need to hit it in the middle, and if you do that it works every time. The corners dont cut it on this tiny keyboard lol.

Click Here For Most Helpful Customer Reviews >>

Read More >>

SIRUI T-1205X 5-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod

Customer Ratings:
List Price: $374.95
Sale Price: $280.95
Today's Bonus: 25% Off

This is the smallest tripod I've seen that is solid enough to actually use in the field, in my opinion. It folds very small and will fit in most daypacks. Of course, it doesn't bring the camera to eye-level for a 6 footer like me, but it does an adequate job of holding the camera still. It is well made and I've not had any mechanical problems with it.

Click Here For Most Helpful Customer Reviews >>

Read More >>

Acer Iconia TAB A100-07U08U 7-Inch Tablet (8GB)

Customer Ratings:
List Price: $329.99
Sale Price: $205.99
Today's Bonus: 38% Off

This is my third Android tablet. My first was a very low budget tablet, the Archos 7 Home Tablet, the second was the Archos 70 Internet Tablet. I was looking for a tablet with more features, most importantly a rear camera and a GPS, but I didn't want to spend $600.

When I rate anything, I rate it based on what is being promised vs what has been delivered. So although I may mention cons in this review, it still scores a perfect rating because those cons are disclosed up front and I wasn't hit with any curve balls.

cons:

-No kick stand. I loved this about my first two tablets and I missed it on day 2 with this tablet.

-Short battery life. I am used to a 7 hour battery life and this tablet cuts 2 hours off of that.

-New OS version brings some apps not being ready. Not the device's fault, but it is still a bummer to see a Force Close.

pros:

-Honeycomb. My other two tablets were 1.5 and 2.2, so this is an amazing experience in comparison

-Price. This is an AMAZING deal considering it is competitively priced but has so many features that you would expect from a premium tablet

-GPS, gyrosensor, light sensor, rear camera, front camera, 1ghz dual core processor, 1 gb ram

-WiFi is super powerful in comparison to my other tablets.

-Very fast and responsive

Screen:

I wish the light sensor would kick it to full brightness more often, but I just turned the auto off and keep it at 50% brightness. The screen doesn't have the best viewing angles, but that is typical with the screen type. However, the display is super sharp and looks great!

WiFi:

When sitting at my desk, I was at maybe 5% reception for WiFi on my old tablet and I often dropped the connection depending on where it was sitting on my desk. With this tablet, I am about 50% reception and I haven't dropped yet. This WiFi is MUCH better than what I have seen before in other tablets.

Battery:

This tablet isn't for everyone because of the battery life. On travel days, it is really going to get to me. I plan on buying a battery charger to juice it up on heavy usage days, but I don't think I will hit empty that often.

Overall, if you want a 7" Android tablet that gives a great experience, this is for you. I can't stress how happy I am with my purchase and I think I will be sticking with this tablet for a while.

Edit (5/24/2012):

It's been a while since this review and there have been a lot of changes since then. Earlier this month, ICS Android 4.0 was released to the device. The system does appear to be snappier after the update, but there has not been an impact to battery life. Unlike when HC was a new OS, I have not had a single app that doesn't run correctly on ICS, so the transition was a lot smoother.

Click Here For Most Helpful Customer Reviews >>

Read More >>

Bower SLY358SE Ultra-Wide 8mm f/3.5 Fisheye Lens for Sony E

Customer Ratings:
List Price: $349.99
Sale Price: $239.00
Today's Bonus: 32% Off

Let me begin by saying that this lens is manufactured in Korea, not China, and is made by Samyang under their name as well as Bower and Pro-Optic.

I first encountered this lens on Ken Rockwell's web site, where he gives it a glowing recommendation. On further review, I found equally glowing reports of the Pro-Optic on Amazon and Adorama web sites.

This is a manual lens, so you have to do a little work when using it. Loss of auto focus is no big deal with a lens this wide, since its hyperfocal range is so great just set it at 10 feet, and you should have all distances covered. Depending on your camera, you may or may not lose auto exposure. I shoot this with a Nikon D200, and can auto expose with aperture priority not all Nikons can do this, however, only the more advanced it will not auto expose with the D40 or other entry-level cameras, so it pays to research this lens with your camera if lack of auto exposure is a deal breaker.

The images this lens produces are SHARP. It's hard to believe that such an inexpensive lens can be so good. Keep in mind this is a fish eye lens, and it produces a great deal of distortion, especially on the edges. This being said, it's certainly not the lens to keep on your camera as a "walk around" its suited for special effects and impact, so I wouldn't recommend it as your primary lens.

To sum up, if you're looking for a fish-eye lens, it's hard to go wrong with this bargain its popularity seems to be growing, and I wouldn't be suprised to see the price go up, as happened to the Tokina 11-16mm 2.8, which originally sold for about $100 under its current price (when it's available).

Click Here For Most Helpful Customer Reviews >>

Read More >>

REFURBISHED Nikon D90 Digital Camera + Nikon 18-55mm VR Lens

Customer Ratings:

We bought this camera plus for a return trip to South Africa. It was fantastic! Also I contacted the seller as I couldn't figure out how to attach the fish eye lens. I got a quick detailed response. I would buy from this seller again in a flash and this equipment is the best! We took approximately 3,500 pictures over 29 days. Wouldn't have done that with film!

Click Here For Most Helpful Customer Reviews >>

Read More >>

Olympus TG-810 Tough 14 MP Waterproof Digital Camera with 5x

Customer Ratings:
List Price: $427.76
Sale Price: $349.95
Today's Bonus: 18% Off

This is my second Olympus shock proof-waterproof camera.. The first one is still great and 4 years old but I wanted the extra features in the TG-610. The in camera panorama feature is so easy to use as are all the other features. Instant video button is a big improvement. I have been using it for a month now and have no faults with this camera. We travel a lot and a tough camera is a must. The monitor has a very clear sharp image even in bright sunlight which has always been a problem with point and shoot camera's. I would highly recommend this camera.

Click Here For Most Helpful Customer Reviews >>

Read More >>

Digital Prism ATSC-710 7" Portable Handheld LCD TV with Built in

Customer Ratings:

Well, the digital switch wasn't without problems! This TV has a wonderfully clear picture for the stations that you can receive. There are a few things to consider though. You will probably need another different antenna because the one provided doesn't get many stations. I had to purchase an amplified antenna (bought 4 of them and eliminated them one by one) to get my local stations. If you live in an area with tall buildings, mountains, etc. you will no doubt have issues. Apparently, digital signals are not as strong as analog signals and reception is poor because of this. You will also need a tripod to stand it on (like the small ones for digital cameras) as it does not have a base that stands up easily. You also have to have a lot of patience to locate a signal as moving even slightly makes a big difference. It's a bit clumsy with the external antenna attached. I think we were used to the mobility of the old analog type products and this technology is a bit quirky. So if you're the impatient type, this might not be for you.

Click Here For Most Helpful Customer Reviews >>

Read More >>

Apple iPod nano 16 GB Blue (6th Generation) OLD MODEL

Customer Ratings:

The iPod Nano update on September 1, 2010 is arguably the most dramatic since the iPod Nano moniker was introduced by Apple five years ago.

Several colors are being offered in both 8 GB & 16 GB capacities.

More than an update, this is a new product that simply retains the iPod Nano name. It gains a significant feature, but loses several others.

The big deal is the touch interface on the newest iPod Nano. iPod Nano users will now be "touching," their music as iPod Touch and iPhone users have before them. The click wheel is gone. To find your music, you select a category from the Nano's menu such as "Playlists," or "Artists," and select from there. Less convenient or more convenient than a click wheel? Honestly, about equal. The screen is indeed small, but not unusable.

FM Radio has been retained as well as the Fitness aspects with the ability to use Nike + or simply the built in pedometer. However, the form factor will be a major benefit for those working out with the Nano. The previous Nano required an armband to keep it on you while working out, jogging, or the like. Not always comfortable, an additional expense, etc. However, with this new small, square form factor that need is gone. Now, we can simply "clip," the Nano onto us, with the built in clip, and run to our listening content. A bigger deal than you might think.

The downside? Features have been removed from Nano. The screen is much smaller than the previous generation. Therefore, playback of video content from iTunes is gone. Nano no longer plays video, which was a feature added three years ago. Secondly, last year, Nano added a small video camera to record low quality video, which could be played back on the Nano's screen or synced with iTunes and viewed on your computer. That feature is gone too. The device is too small now for a camera or to watch video. This new generation iPod Nano has many exciting new features, but buyers must be aware that it is no longer a video player. It is something new. Those wishing to play video on an iPod must choose an iPod Touch.

My opinion on this change? Honestly, did I ever watch video on the iPod Nano's screen? No. For me, while they kept trying to make the screen larger, it was simply too small to enjoy more than a once a year video. Likewise, the camera was simply not high enough quality to keep yourself entertained by using on a regular basis. It became a feature unused by many.

The iPod Nano has changed and gone back to being an exceptional music player. There is nothing here you do not need to enjoy music. However, the display and touch interface brings the 21st century "touch," that Apple has made so popular to a more affordable device. The touch function will be limited here to simply selecting songs or bringing up the clock, but nevertheless, touch has made its way to the Nano.

I'm most thankful that the Nano has indeed retained the DOCK CONNECTOR. The dock connector is key to use with iPod accessories such as docks, speaker docks, and built in car iPod connectors. The nano is so diminutive that if you plug it into the factory iPod kit of an automobile, the cable's dock connector will look nearly bigger than the Nano itself. Not a negative, just amusing. Nevertheless, the dock connector is there, and you will be able to use the device in such applications, and that was a significant decision by Apple. Users want and need the dock connector. It is there on this iPod Nano, but still missing from the Shuffle due to its even more diminutive size.

This 16 GB version is the largest size Apple offers in the Nano. It offers no additional functionality over the 8GB, but features twice the storage. Choose the one best for you. 16 GB is great if you have a large music collection. We should all remember though that with Nano no longer doing Video or Storing Pictures, the storage is exclusively for music. This makes 8 GB and 16 GB more appropriate size offerings as music takes up much less storage than video.

Overall, Apple has removed video (both playback and recording) from this iPod Nano. However, it's an equalling good music player. Navigation of music is now completed via touch, which works effectively despite the small screen. It's really hard to believe so much can fit into such a small device and I believe everyone will be a bit shocked when they open up the Nano the first time and see it's size yet primary function as an effective music player retained. The newest Nano brings a nearly Shuffle like size, but yet retains the functionality (touch, clip, dock connector) that serious music lovers and those who use the Nano while working out, demand.

Click Here For Most Helpful Customer Reviews >>

Read More >>

Nikon D80 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera Kit with 18-55mm ED AF-S DX

Customer Ratings:

[Following is a reprint of my body only review. I placed a review of the lens at the end.]

The Nikon D80, destined to replace the popular D70 series, is a great camera for Nikon fans who wish to upgrade from their D50s, 70s or 100s. It's also attractive enough to maybe get a few people to jump ship!

Here's the highlights:

1) 10.2 megapixel. A substantial upgrade from the 6mp of the older cameras, performance should be very comparable to the highly regarded D200 camera;

2) 11-point AF system. Similar again to the D200 in performance (though not as easy to change);

3) Large viewfinder (.94x magnification). Again, taken from the D200, this is a clear improvement over the previous cameras. Spec wise, this is also better than all the competition, even though other, personal preference factors need to be taken into consideration (such as layout of LCDs and focusing points).;

4) 2.5" LCD. Not only is it larger, it can also be viewed at a much wider angle--particularly handy when locked to a tripod.

The camera is small for Nikon (about like the D50), but has a good, firm grip for those with medium to larger hands. Controls are well thought out--easy to get to and use. Dampening of mirror noise is better than its competition.

Nikon's use of the SDHC format should be commended. These small cards will have no real disadvantage to the older CF hards once the HC versions start hitting the shelves, and should relieve the danger of "bent pins".

Things you've liked about previous Nikons have been retained. The D80 uses inexpensive wireless & wired remotes, and it still allows the built-in flash to control other Nikon Speedlights remotely.

Compared to the competition, the Canon Rebel XTi & Sony Alpha 100, the Nikon starts a bit in the hole, considering it's the most expensive camera (by $200 & $100, respectively). The XTi offers a nice "anti-dust" hardware & software solution; while the Sony offers in camera stablization. Both use the rear LCD for info status. While many may prefer the traditional LCD on top (like the D80), the rear LCD does have the advantage of being considerably larger text for older eyes (and on the Alpha, rotates when you rotate the camera for verticals). Too bad the D80 doesn't give you this option as well.

The XTi is smaller and lighter, maybe too small for many people. The XTi also does not offer wireless capability with the built-in flash (like D80/A100). It's battery (hence capacity) is a bit smaller.

The Alpha 100 being Sony's first modern digital SLR means that getting lenses and accessories my be a bit more difficult (even though it uses a lot from the older Maxxum cameras). It's also a bit noiser in its operations.

The D80 adds more AF selections than either of the above cameras, has nice enhancements like grid lines and double exposures. It also comes with a protective cover for the rear LCD.

Lens wise, they greatly outnumber those offered by Sony, particularly in any considered "Pro" grade. While Canon can compete in "Pro" grade with Nikon (particularly in longer length lenses), Nikon has a bit of advantage in wider angles for digital. Nikon only offers one size digital sensor, where as Canon must offer two series (for 3 different chip sizes).

Is the D80 worth the money? For anyone with Nikon lenses, undoubtedly. My recommendation for anyone with Canon EF or Minolta Maxxum lenses: look at those cameras first...but be sure to look at the D80 before you buy.

Lens review: Tremendous! The Nikkor 18-135 gives everybody what they want, an affordable lens with above average quality.

First, the 18-135 range is excellent for a kit lens, equivalent of a 27-200 in 35mm photography. It looks great, zooms smoothly, and balances well. The Silent Wave focusing motor is quiet, quick and smooth, and allows immediate manual focus (no hunting for switches). The internal focus is great for anyone using polarizing filters, and allows for a more efficient tulip shaped lens hood (supplied).

Second, the image quality is very good. The aperture is of average size, so don't expect images to jump out like large aperture lenses, but quality is good throughout the range.

Third, Nikon always includes a better than average 5 year warranty in the US on their lenses.

The only negative is that I always prefer a metal lens mount to a plastic one, although the latter keeps both the weight and cost down.

Click Here For Most Helpful Customer Reviews >>

Read More >>

Panasonic AJ-P2C032AG 32GB P2 High Performance Memory Card

Customer Ratings:

Leave it to Panasonic to charge $1500.00 for a souped up memory card. This item is essential to an owner of a P2 camera, can't shoot in HD without it, but something has to be done about these prices. Works as it should, no complaints so far.

Click Here For Most Helpful Customer Reviews >>

Read More >>

Dell XPS 27 20XPSo27T-2143BLK 27-Inch All-in-One Touchscreen

Customer Ratings:
List Price: $1,799.99
Sale Price: $1,699.99
Today's Bonus: 6% Off

Customer review from the Amazon Vine Program NOTE!! Amazon Vine sent me model XPSo27T-714BLK and NOT the one this review is attached to! Unfortunately, I cannot return it or review under the one they sent me, but they require this review to be written anyway. This -2143BLK model comes with a faster processor, a 'Thunderbolt' port, and double the memory of the one they sent. The -714BLK model I review below is otherwise identical. If you want to see the specs of the one I am reviewing, look here: http://www.amazon.com/Dell-XPSo27T-714BLK-27-Inch-Touchscreen-Desktop/dp/B00F4MEAYG, or this one is the same but with the added Thunderbolt port: Dell XPS XPSo27-715BLK 27-Inch All-in-One Touchscreen Desktop (Piano Black)

-------------

Just a little of my background so you know where I'm coming from: I am a professional computer programmer and technician. I usually research on forums and computer 'geek' sites and then build my own PCs from parts I buy online. I feel like I know PC hardware and software pretty well.

With the evolution of the Desktops, Laptops, Smartphones and Tablets, we have come full circle back to the desktop computer with the "All-in-One". This computer is the combination of a very large (TV-size) tablet with a touchscreen and apps, and an immobile desktop computer for gaming, browsing and home/office computing. Can it do the job of both and do it well? Is it practical as both? Let's see...

Setup was quite simple and it was quickly usable. I plugged in the A/C power cord (the standard IEC plug no wall wart or inline brick transformer) and connected an Ethernet cable to my network. The wireless keyboard and mouse come with (Duracell!) batteries. The power button brings up a setup screen to help configure Windows 8 that comes with it. (Remember to update to v8.1 later when you are online!) It attempts to connect to wireless networks at this point, if you want to set that up as well. Beyond that, there is not much else to do. You can sign in with your Windows Live ID/password and it will link to your online account right away. Once Windows starts up, you are left at the typical "app" screen on a tablet or smartphone this is the new Windows 8 "Start Menu". The computer then functions like a tablet or smartphone from here -you touch, click or swipe the screen to scroll through your apps and touch/click the one you want to run. It will run multiple apps at once.

For the purist or typical desktop user, you must start the "Desktop" app and then your screen will look like a typical Windows desktop with the wallpaper, Recycle Bin, taskbar, etc. I prefer this app only because I am used to it. You can use the mouse to click/drag on apps or the desktop as normal, although some activities are easier by touching or swiping the screen directly. There is even an on-screen keyboard if you want. This can become tiring on a 27" screen at arm's length, though. OK, enough about Windows 8. How about this particular incarnation of the Dell desktop computer?

Overview: As a desktop computing center, it seems a bit unnecessary to have a touchscreen, but maybe it will come in handy as I 'convert' from the typical desktop. I can see the use for maybe 'signing' your name or other handwriting, occasional 'swiping' type activities, for creative uses like drawing/painting, or for enlarging or thumbing through photos. The only drawback with such a large screen as far as touching is that it must be within comfortable reach, but it's large enough that you need it a comfortable distance away to see everything.

Hardware: The included chiclet keyboard is just OK -about the size of a typical laptop keyboard with a number pad. It's useable, but as a programmer who types about 8-10 hours per day, it would get uncomfortable fast. I was able to plug in my Microsoft Natural Ergonomic Keyboard 4000 and the drivers installed automatically. The mouse is OK as well, although I use a trackball mouse to minimize carpal tunnel issues...and it installed fine too. There are 4 USB 3.0 ports on the back, an HDMI out and HDMI in port, and the Ethernet cable port. On the left side are 2 more USB ports, a mic and headphone jack, and a memory card reader. On the right is a DVD/CD drive and the power button. It has typical laptop type stereo speakers, which are adequate for Windows sounds, voice chat, casual music listening. If you want good sound for music or movies, you will need to use an external sound system to plug into the USB or headphone port. The screen's touch sensitivity is very good without any skips or mis-touches. Fingerprints do not seem to smudge the screen. The surface of the screen is glass-like, making it quite reflective, so you will need a dark background behind you. Mine came with the Intel quad-core i5-440S @ 2.80GHz, 8GM RAM, 1TB 7200RPM hard drive, and built in HD webcam and microphone. This ad specifies an Intel i7 processor and 16GB RAM, so please contact Amazon to make sure you are getting what you expect!!

Software: The computer comes with Windows 8, Cyberlink Media Suite Essentials, all of the usual plethora of Dell update, backup, recovery, utility software, the usual Windows software, and a trial version of Microsoft Office.

How does this compare with other Windows 8 tablet/desktops available? If portability is an issue (which this 27" all-in-one is NOT), then you might opt for the Acer Iconia W700-6499 11.6-Inch 128 GB Tablet (Silver), with its docking system, although you sacrifice computing power and ports. The Microsoft Surface Pro 2 with 128GB Dark Titanium is also an option for the 10" size. If you are looking for a laptop with tablet features, you might also consider the ASUS Taichi 21-DH71 11.6-Inch Convertible Touch Ultrabook, which comes with a better keyboard and bridges the gap a little better between a laptop and tablet, as well as the Dell XPS 12 12.5-Inch Convertible 2-in-1 Touchscreen Ultrabook.

If you are really sold on an All in One desktop computer that will not move from your desk, then this XPS 27 is a fine performer if you can adapt to its chiclet keyboard and/or prefer to mostly use the touchscreen. You should also consider the VIZIO CA27T-B1 27-Inch All-in-One Touchscreen Desktop with a slightly slower processor but a smaller price. Finally, even cheaper is the Acer Aspire AZ3-605-UR23 23-Inch All-in-One Touchscreen Desktop (Black), slightly smaller at 23" and a slightly slower processor, but plenty of power to run your apps and entertainment media.

Click Here For Most Helpful Customer Reviews >>

Read More >>

Canon C100 Cinema EOS Camera (Body Only)

Customer Ratings:
List Price: $7,999.00
Sale Price: $5,449.00
Today's Bonus: 32% Off

There's a lot of talk around the net about how it's missing/has crippled features from its bigger brother the c300. But it can't be denied that you're getting the same sensor as the cameras costing many times this little guy, and the low light ability of it is arguably unrivaled.

When looking at the competitors, there's really nothing that's similar. You have the FS700 which is a nonstarter for me due to its ungainly form factor. DSLRs work great, but lack basic things that professional video cameras such as this have, namely XLRs, proper monitoring, and built in ND filters.

I do have my nitpicks, so i'll rattle them off:

-The LCD is in the wrong place, should be farther forward, and cannot turn to face forward.

-The EVF is not very good at all, but i'll take a mediocre EVF over no EVF at all. I use it frequently, and a large eyecup helps a lot.

-No true 1080 slow motion, the 60i isn't terrible by any means, but if you want good slow motion, it's just not quite there.

-The darn thing is just a half an inch too large in all directions to work with nearly any of the great photography cases out there.

-LCD screen reflective, not great in sunlight. Sony's lcds for the longest time have had amazingly visible lcds in sunlight, what's wrong canon?

I could go on, but it's really nitpicking. The plusses far outweigh the minuses:

-Unrivaled low light up to 20,000 ISO. And yes it's USABLE up to 20K, not that you should, but you can if really needed.

-Small formfactor, with all the expected video necessities. Can handhold it all day long no problem

-Practically zero artifacting. No Moire, no alaising, true 1080 sharpness.

-Battery life that makes RED shooters weep. Nothing against red, it's just Canon gave us a small, 4 hour battery.

-The AVCHD codec is NOT weak. It holds up great, the only exception being high motion scenes such as water or leaves in the wind.

-Uses any Canon or Nikon lens(with adapter)

again, i could go on, but it's just a lot to list out. If your in the market for a camera in this price range and this form factor, you'll be thrilled with using this little chap, i have zero regrets from nearly a year of use.

if i were to have one wish, it would be for canon to take a damn hint from sony and make a powered, constant aperture zoom lens.

Click Here For Most Helpful Customer Reviews >>

Read More >>