Why You Should Use HD Cameras?

If you own a camera, as millions of us around the world do, your probably aware of the fact that there are
many to choose from.  The cameras of the past were black and white, enabling you to take a black and white photograph that printed out from the camera right in front of your eyes.

From then, cameras evolved.  Digital cameras came out later on, which the ability to put them on your computer or even take your camera card to a local store and have the photos printed out on professional
paper.  Over the years, cameras have evolved in so many ways that it isn't even funny.

These days, high definition video cameras are dominating the market.  They are relatively new and quickly catching on, giving you so much you can do with your camera.  Unlike the past, cameras are now capable of capturing full videos as well, proving that they are indeed capable of capturing any memory you can possibly imagine.

High definition video cameras also offer you 20X zoom lens or more, meaning that you can zoom in  quite a distance on things that you want to capture up close and personal.  For the most part, you can do things with these cameras that you may have never before thought possible.

When you capture a picture or video with high definition cameras, you'll be very amazed at what you see.  Just like HDTV, the pictures of the camera are very lifelike.  If you have a newborn baby, a high definition video camera may be just what you need to capture each and every precious moment.  For this reason and many more, you shouldn't hesitate to get a high definition video camera - that is if you don't own one already.

Sony HVR-A1E

The Sony HVR-A1E boasts an incredibly small size, and providing the 180i standard, the camera offers you a host of advanced features for professional use.  The HVR-A1E uses technology such as CMOS, the camera is an ultra compact camcorder that is capable of providing HDV in the full 1080 line resolution.

By building on the affordability of HDV, the HVR-A1E providers you with a migration path from standard definition while retaining the qualities of the popular DVCAM range such as ease of use and multiple connections.

The HVR-A1E is ideal for situations in which space is limited.  The camera also broadens the range of HDV tools available for professional users, as it really does deliver HD for everyone.
Afforable
The HVR-A1E really means that high definition is for everyone. Through the HDV format, this camera allows you to capture HD pictures on a standard DV cassette, providing both a cost effective format and full 1080 line resolution.
The HVR-A1E also offers you the ability to choose
the most appropriate recording format for your production.  With this camera, you are able to switch between HDV, DVCAM, and DV recording which gives you full flexibility to record in standard or HD mode.  You can also take still pictures as well, which adds to the list of already impressive features.
Professional use As a professional company, Sony realizes that  your needs are different to that of a  consumer.As a result, the HVR-A1E incorporates many specific features to help support your needs.

Compact design
This camera helps to bring the realm of HD to an even wider range of production.  A lightweight and compact design means that HDV shots can be achieved even when limited on space.  No matter where your shoot may be, you can count on the Sony HVR-A1E to deliver.

Sony HDW-F900 HD Cine Alta

The Sony HDW-F900 Cine Alta is a ground breaking digital HD camera that extends both the digital  heitage of the company and it's unrivalled experience in the art of imaging.  The physical resemblance of the HDW-900 to the very successful Digital Betacam is intentional, although there are some subtle but very relevant changes that help to further enhance operational familiarity and ease of usage.
Because of the outstanding picture quality and flexibility, this video camera offers a new and important alternative to 24 frame film origination for major television productions and even commercials as well.  The HDW-F900 is already known as the digital movie camera, ideal for exploring new horizons in the making of digital movies.
What really separates the HDW-F900 from other HD video cameras is its ability to capture and record digital high definition pictures - at 24 progressive frames per second, just like a conventional film camera.
The moving pictures are digitally imaged in  accordance with the common image format standard, which will specify a sampling structure of 1920 active pixels horizontally by 1080 active pixels vertically.  What makes the HDW-F900 so exciting is that along with recording at 24p, it is also switchable to record at 25p, 30p progressive  scan, and also at 50 or 60 Hz interlaced.
Colorimetry The HDW-F900 produces picture with amazing color reproduction accuracy.  The Multi Matrix function will also offer unique possibilities for creating intervention by allowing selective color enhancement of alteration.  The Multi Matrix will also allow particular colors to be selected and the hue changes over a range of 20 degrees.
Contrast rage
The HDW-F900 can handle an amazing contrast range.  For the most demanding of light settings and scene conditions, a number of useful  operational features are available that allow image optimization in real time to help capture the desired mood and setting for a shot.
Soft focus
The soft focus adjustment is extremely convenient for those who find digital images to be too shrap and allows cinematic or even film like images to be created.
Adoptive detail control
This feature allows the image detail enhancement in the highlight area to look even more natural. If you've been looking for the best high definition video camera on the market, the Sony HDW-F900 is it.  This camera offers you plenty of features and options, more than you could ever use if you aren't a professional.
For professionals, the HDW-F900 is the way to do business.  The camera offers you everything you
need for professional shoots, taking things to new levels.  When the time comes to get the best HD video camera on the market - the HDW-F900 is all you need.

Sony HDV

Even though you may think high definition video is just for your television, it isn't.  You can get that very same quality on your home movies as well.You can turn your home movies and precious memories into works of art with HD.
Amateur home video producers alike will truly love the high quality of HD.  With HDV (high definition
video), you can record superb high definition video onto a digital video tape.
Benefits of HDV
You don't really need to understand how HDV works to truly appreciate the benefits.  All you need to do is spend a few minutes watching a video recorded on a Sony HDV video camera and you'll see everything
you need to know.
If you already know about HDV, there are many more reasons as to why you should pick HDV video cameras:
1.  The amazing picture quality of HD is no longer limited to Hollywood and professionals.  You
too can now use HDV technology to capture the important memories of your life with life like color,
vivid contrast, and amazing HD video.
2.  HDV recording offers low noise, high accuracy, rich, and very vivid color.

3.  The sound tracks for HDV use MPEG 1 audio layer 2 digital encoding to give your videos
the sound quality of CDs at a much lower bitrate.
4.  HDV uses the same tapes that are already popular for DV recording, with the recording time being the same as well.
5.  HDV also uses MPEG 2 compression, which is used in digital broadcasts and also DVDs. 
6.  HDV uses a higher compression rate than DV, making it more reliable and less subjectible to errors.
Technology behind HDV The HDV format handles the same bitrate as the DV format, although HDV records a high definition signal.  This will allow you to record HD video on the same tapes used for DV recordings.  A signal with HDV has 4.5 times as much data as a DV signal used with NTSC.  HDV also includes CD quality sound,  MPEG 2 compression, real time encoding, and so much more.
When compared to other HD formats, HDV is one of the best, if not the best.  Sony has always been known for quality, which makes HDV no exception to the rule.  This format has been years in the making, which helps to make it what it is today.
If you've been looking for the perfect type of  video camera, rest assured that HDV is it.  If you buy a Sony HDV type camera, you'll know that your precious memories will be perfect HD quality - each and every time.

Sony HDR HC3

Home video enthusiasts all across North America are impressed with the vast range of recording features
offered by the Sony HDR-HC3 handycam video camera. With both HD and SD modes of recording, you can make the move to high definition without retaining compatibility with standard definition equipment.
The HC3 video camera sets the new standard in resolution quality with its clear vid image sensor, which
captures precise detail and superior color.  The dual record mode will allow you to capture 2.3 megapixel
stills while shooting high definition video.
The smooth slow recording captures fast movement with precise detail for playing back in slow motion.
Now, you can record what you want however you want to record it. The HC3 from Sony is everything you could expect and more.
2.1 megapixel clear vid CMOS sensor
The clear vid CMOS sensor provides a level of stunning detail and clarity with amazing video and still
image performance.  Unlike the traditional CCD imagers, CMOS sensors require much less power, which
provides better performance for your battery.
Dual record
While you record in HD, you also have the ability to capture a 2.3 megapixel still image directly to
the memory stick duo media.
HDV/DV format recording
The HDR-HC3 is capable of recording and playing back both HD and SD video recorded on the standard
Mini DV tape.
Real time HD codec engine Sony developed a real time MPEG encoding and decoding system with a reduced energy consumption along with a compact size to fit inside of a personal video camera.  The codec engine provides MPEG 2 compression, with the recording and playback of clear HD images at the same bit rate of DV.
10X optical/80X digital zoom
The optical zoom provided by the HDR-HC3 will bring the action up close from far away.  The digital
zoom interpolation will make the digital zooming clearer, with less distortion.
Touch panel
The 2.7" wide (16:9) LCD screen will provide an excellent viewing clarity with improved resolution.
The 211K pixel LCD screen rotates up to 270 degrees for multiple viewing angles, while providing a
sharp, detailed image for monitoring or playback.
The widescreen format makes shooting in 16:9 mode and composing shots easier than ever before. With amazing features and video quality, the Sony HDR-HC3 high defintion video camera is truly one of the best Sony offers.  If you've been looking for the perfect HD camera, the HDR-HC3 offers you more features than you can shake a stick at.

Sony CMOS Sensor

Beginning with their adoption of cellular phones back in 2002, Sony's CMOS sensors for megapixel class
camera cell phones, and digital high definition video cameras have become widely used in commercial products.
The greatest strength of the CMOS sensors is that by including both digital and analog circuits on the same chip, their readout speed can be made much faster than the CCD.  Sony is now developing high speed CMOS sensors for digital cameras that will provide continuous imaging from all pixels at an amazing frame rate of 60 frames.
Here recently, the trend towards higher pixel counts in consumer digital cameras have continued, and now
it's possible to take high resolution still images conveniently.  Until now, Sony focused efforts in the image sensor area on increasing the pixel count and improving the characteristics of the pixels to achieve high resolution imaging that everyone loves about high definition video cameras.
Sony is also aiming for an image sensor that will  be able to capture and express surprise and emotion,
and is now putting efforts into a CMOS sensor that can do just that.
Even through image quality will improve as you increase the amount of information you capture, until
now, the still image quality of pictures has been improved by spatial resolution increases.  The amount of information however, can be increased  not only by spatial resolution increases, but also by increasing the amount of information in the time direction as well.
If anything can be said about Sony technology, it would be to never doubt it.  Sony creates very amazing
products, and are among the leaders in camera technology today.  The CMOS sensor is just another
step for Sony in the world of high definition video cameras, making it something you can't go wrong with.

Sony BRC-H700

The Sony BRC-H700 high definition video camera is designed for a variety of remote acquisition applications, especially in television production for recording programs and for use as a weather or even traffic camera.
The PTZ (Pan Tilt Zoom) camera can display images onto a large screen in auditoriums, teaching hospitals, sporting events, trade shows, and even concerts.  This unit is also ideal for distance learning applications in which clear high definition images need to be projected onto electronic white boards during a presentation or other function.
The Sony BRC-H700 also features three 1/3 inch HD CCDs with 1.07 megapixels, delivers accurate color
reproduction, and is ideal for taking pictures or videos in low light environments. The BRC-H700 has a wide pan range of 340 degrees and a tilt range of 120 degrees.  Both the pan and tilt speeds are variable within the range of .25 to 60 degrees a second, so the camera can capture both fast and slow moving objects with
minimal rocking vibration.  The camera also  includes a 12X optical auto focus zooming lens, which allows for a zoom capability of up to 48X when used in combination with the 4X digital zoom.

You can also control the BRC-H700 by external devices which include the optional RM-BR300  remote control via Sony's VISCA protocol.  Local controls such as PTZ settings and any of the 16 presets can easily be accessed.
The BRC-H700 has a card slot that accepts a variety of optional interface cards, including the HD-SDI, D/SD, i.Link, and even connections for use with computers.
Other features include an image flip function  for installation flexibility on ceilings or other flat surfaces and up to 16 presets for operational ease of use.  

Sany Xacti VPC-HD1

This digital HD media camera is small, elegant, and also lightweight.  The Sanyo Xacti will beautifully capture your memories in high definition.  The stylish vertical design offered by the camera will make it easier for you to keep an arm steady while you shoot.
2.2" color OLED The 2.2" flip out organic light emmitting diode  screen will offer easier viewing of your recordings,even in bright sunlight.
Video and pictures The Xacti will simultaneously shoot 5.1 megapixel still images and high definition video clips.  The HD1 can also record over 21 minutes of 720 pixel HD video on a single 1 GB SD care, or well over 42 minutes on a 2 GB card.
MPEG 4 format
The HD1 utilizes the high quality MPEG 4 recording format which will deliver amazing video clarity and
detail.  With the files being conveniently small, you have the ability to record long, high quality video clips.
Start up When you close the LCD screen, the camera will go into standby mode.  Open it back up, and you are ready to shoot in as little as 2 seconds!  The camera also records straight to SD flash memory cards, so it will skip the long process of getting the tape deck started. Image stabilizer The image stabilizer will accurately distinguish between the unintentional camera shake and  deliberate camera movement from pans or tilts.  It
will then compensate for the camera shaking to give you more natural results when you shoot.
Zoom lens The highly effective and bright 10x optical zoom lens witha maximum aperture of f/3.5 will allow you to get up close to the action.  Coupled with a 10X digital zoom, it will give you up to 100X of zooming
capabilities.
Scene modes
You can create breathtaking pictures with the HD1 by selecting the best suited mode to the subject.  The scene selection mode will work for both still images and video.  The modes to choose from include
sports, portrait, landscape, fireworks, and even night view.
Easy playback
You can share your pictures and video clips with family and friends in a snap.  Multiple connections will allow for easy television playback, dubbing to a VCR or DVD recorder, transfer to a PC for DVD creation, editing, or just posting on the internet.
With everything the Sanya Xacti VPC HD1 has to  offer, it's perfect for anyone looking for a HD video camera.  You can do many things with this camera, other than taking pictures or making videos. If you've never experienced a HD video camera, the Sanya Xacti is certainly one of the first ones you should check out.

Sanyo Small HD Cams

Sanyo has recently brought a new level of credability to dual use, video and still image cameras with the introduction of the new Xacti HD1.  With measurements of 3.1X4, 7X1.4 inches and 8.3 ounces, it is easily
the smallest camera to record 720p high definition video.  It will also capture 5.1 MP still images and
has a 10X optical zoom lens as well.
Just like other dual use cameras, it will record both video and still images on a memory card, or in this case an SD card instead of video tape. According to Sanyo, a 1GB SD card can record up to 21 minutes of 720p 16:9 widescreen video.  If you prefer to record in standard definition, the HD1can also record video at 640X480 pixel resolution at either 30 or 60 frames per second.  Everything you record is with the popular MPEG 4 compression.
Just in case pocket sized HD recording isn't enough for you, Sanyo also put a 2.2 inch 210,000 pixel OLED display in the HD1.  The OLED is a display technology that many thing will end up replacing LCD very soon.  The advantages offered include wider viewing angles and faster response time.
As you probably already know, Sanyo isn't new to HD video cameras or digital cameras in general.Sanyo has been around for years, proving that they can compete with the bigger industry giants.  The small HD video cameras offered from Sanyo are among the best as well.
If you've been looking for the best HD video cameras,rest assured that anything you select from Sanyo
is going to be great.  There are a few to choose from, with the HD1 leading the pack.  If you want the best, the HD1 is everything you need - and quite possibly a bit more.

Rent Or Buy HD Video Camera

If you are new to HD video cameras, you've probably found yourself wondering if you really need to have
one around.  For a majority of people, a HD video camera represents the best way to capture memories
and pictures with the best technology available today.

For producers or those looking to start their own productions, HD video cameras may be easier to rent
than to buy.  While most HD video cameras cost quite a bit of money, they may be easier to rent than just to
go out and buy.

If you only plan to use your camera for a few days or just a short period of time, then renting may be
your best option.  Producers and professional photographers looking to take things to the next
level, may choose rent a HD video camera to test the waters before making the purchase.  If you've never
experienced HD before, renting a camera may be the best idea before you sink a ton of money into buying
one of your very own.

On the other hand, if you take a lot of pictures and enjoy making videos, buying a camera may be the best
option for you.  Even though they cost a lot of money, these cameras are ideal for anyone who is seeking the
absolute best in technology.  These cameras are nothing like cameras of the past, as they can do so
much more - with a lot better quality.
For the average photographer, a HD video camera may not be the best purchase.  If you are on a budget or
don't have a lot of money to spend, then this type of camera is probably going to be out of your league.  If
you have a lot of money on the other hand, this type of camera is more than worth the purchase.

There are several companies that rent out HD cameras, from many different manufacturers.  Normally, those
that rent are looking to try the camera out, or just needing it for a brief amount of time.  Trying out the camera is a good thing, although it normally leads to buying it.  It can be very difficult to try out a camera that is this good then not buy it.

When the time comes to test out HD video cameras, renting is sometimes the best way to go.  If you've
used these types of cameras in the past, then you may want to go ahead and buy one.  There are several
to choose from, and you really can't go wrong with jumping on the band wagon and immersing yourself in
the amazing world of HD.

Panasonic High Definition

With the growing popularity of the variable frame rate VariCam HD Cinema cameras, HD production is on the verge of changing HD video cameras as we know it.  The low cost 24p editing and finishing on the desktop, is what Panasonic likes to call a VariDigm shift.

It all starts inside of the camera.  The AJ-HDC27 from Panasonic replicates several of the key features of
film based acquisition, which includes 24 frame progressive scan images, time lapsed recording, and a wide range of film rates for amazing camera effects.The VariCam also comes with CineGamma software that
permits Panasonic's HD Cinema camera systems to match the latitude of film stocks and effects.

Even though it all starts inside of the camera, it doesn't stop there.  HD has been showing up in many
more places besides HDTV.  Panasonic is leading the way with compact and affordable HD products.  All
across the world, you'll see Panasonic launching HD products that are among the best and very affordable.

Broadcast
If your digital plans call for a transition to DTV first then HDTV later on down the road, or if you plan
to take your station HD now, Panasonic has you covered by making HD both flexible and affordable.

Commercials
Whether your next commercial is a 30 second spot for TV or a two minute commercial, shoot it on DVCPRO HD
without having to sacrifice quality.  The 24P at 720 progressive resolution from Panasonic makes this
very possible.

Corporate needs
The coporate level presentations demand the highes
level of image quality.  Professional presentations begin with 720p and 1080i cameras from Panasonic.
By starting with the highest image quality available, Panasonic ensures that you'll have everything you
need to exceed your corporate needs and demands.

JCV HY-HD100

At first look, the JVC HD100 looks like any other high definition camera with a lot of switches, dials, and places to plug in peripherals.  In operation, it functions like an old regular video camera.  You don't really need to do anything special to make a high definition recording, just press a button - although there are differences.

One of the things that makes this camera so nice and unique is the amount of control you have over pretty
much everything you record.  JVC really outdone themselves here, as you can record all of your settings
on a SD memory card and save them to move on to another JCV camera, which will save you a lot of time.

Another amazing feature enables the video camera to automatically record to a hard disk while at the same
time recording to a tape. Recording directly to a hard drive will save you a lot of time in the editing process, as you can immediately begin using your video without having to capture tape to your computer, which can only be done in real time.

Surprisingly enough, the camera is very easy to use either mounted on a tripod or on your shoulder.  The
shoulder pad is a nice addition, being thickly padded. To make things even better, the camera is very light.

When it comes to the quality, the GY-HD100 needs to be seen to be believed.  HD video is intended to look
like real life.  There is an extended gray scale, a heightened sense of color - and the resulting detail is simply incredible.

HD at this incredible level has 720 X 1028 lines of progressive video, which means that the video is shot in one entire frame at a time.  Also, it can be recorded at 24 or even 30 frames per second.
The 24 fps resembles film and if you plan to convert to film, it's a great way to shoot - as you can  quickly and easily go directly to film.  The 30 fps has more data per second, although it is not appropriate for making a film project.

If you want to experience HD without spending over 70,000$, then the JCV GY-HD100 is more than worth
your time and money.  Even though it doesn't record uncompressed HD video, it does record a picture
that is far superior to the standard picture you get with an average everyday camera.  HD is rapidly becoming the future, and with the GY-HD100 - its here and now.

The First High Def Camera

The amazing company of JVC (Victor Company of Japan) released the first high definition video camera for
consumers back in 2003.  The GR-HD1 high def camera was the first digital video camera in the world to
record and play back high definition images.

By utilizing a newly developed 1/3 inch type 1.18 million pixel progressive scan CCD and JVC type
processing, the new camera records and plays back 750/30p digital high definition and 525p progressive
wide screen images to mini DV tape.
Features
The GR-HD1 is was the first digital video camera in the world to record and play back high definition
video and images.  The GR-HD1 records digital images to mini DV tapes using MPEG 2 compression, recording and playing back digital high definition images while still maintaining conventional 525i DV
standard recording times.

The GR-HD1 also comes with an optical 10X zoom lens and a built in optical image stabilizer.  It also
uses a newly developed 1/3 inch type 1.18 million pixel (1.14 million effective pixels) progressive scan CCD.  Due to the JVC original signal processing circuitry and driving system, it can record muti format high quality images.

There are three recording modes; HD mode, SD mode, and DV mode that are based according to the camera operators requirements.  The HD mode records 750/30p digital high definition images, SD mode 525p progressive wide images, DV mode at the conventional 525i DV standard.  This way, camera users can freely choose among the 3 modes according to their specific requirements.

Even though it was the first high definition video camera to release to consumers, the GR-HD1 is still a very impressive camera.  It has a slew of other features, which are sure to please camera lovers everywhere.

Vizio VO47LF LCD HDTV

The latest Vizio VO47LF LCD HDTV comes like a bolt out of the blue with its impressive image quality and affordable price.

At 47-inches, this TV lives up to the Vizio HDTV tradition of presenting premium image quality for a cost that blows the competition right out of the water. Not to say Vizio VO47LF is faultless. A common drawback to the Vizio line is its difficult set-up procedure, not to mention the non-movable stand and the obvious absence of multimedia USB ports.

Including a stand would have been a good idea considering the fact that these types of televisions sets can be difficult to swivel and pivot when you want to reach the back hookups. Another reason to add a good base that can move is to allow consumers to set up their home entertainment centers anyway they please with a minimum of fuss. A swiveled base would make this easy as you would not have to drag the entire set back and forth to find that perfect view.

Making it easier to setup would have also been a grand idea. While its not the most difficult HDTV ever to get up and running, its lack of clear instructions and many connectors can and will leave some consumers absolutely confused and how to attach certain wires. This could require them to pay large sums of money to have an outside company set it up for them.

 The design is decidedly simple; however, someone's lack of foresight might have resulted in the VO47LF's input panel to be located at the back and faced down, which can be inconvenient. The accessible screen on the menu can has a hard-to-read blue interface accompanied with blue text. Certain modification on screen can also be frustrating, such as the adjustable tint not allowing complete color customization.

The good news is that fiddling with the input plugs of various devices and color set-ups are no longer necessary. The bad news is that switching between your DVD player, cable connection, and VCR still requires regular input changes. A button on the VO47LF's remote control allows you to chose which appliance you want to use from a list-even the inactive sources-and must be bypassed every time. The Vizio remote has buttons can let you access different input types despite having indirect button commands.

A more or less average remote so far, but the backlighting feature does more than make up for it. Losing the remote in the dark becomes a thing of the past. The remote controls the set although that's about it. There aren't any programmable features otherwise.

Fortunately, the instructions manual helps customers dive into the VO47LF experience with relative ease. The quick-start guide comes in the form of a large back-to-back fold-out poster. All of the manual's 76 pages are in English, easy to read and decipher.

There isn't much in the way of extra features. The VO47LF is decidedly Spartan with its picture-in-picture option and a free HDMI cable. But for a high definition TV in the classic sense, the Vizio VO47LF remains true to its cause and delivers excellent picture quality.

Once put to our tests, the VO47LF grabbed itself a handful of Goods, a spattering of Fairs, and absolutely no Poors. It even scored quite a bit of Superiors-a ranking that doesn't come easily from our esoteric standards.

The VO4LF's strength comes in its sound quality which easily surpasses its competition. Dialogue is crisp and music clips come out packing a punch.

All in all, the Vizio VO47LF carries with it terrific image quality for a package price no one should miss.

Vizio GV52LF HDTV Review

The Vizio GV52LF HDTV is a 52 inch behemoth that offers great value for its $2200 price tag. When viewing the HD and SD on the screen you see a crisp image that is free of most viewing flaws found in similar models. This Vizio receives high marks for the luster of the image onscreen and it is the only HDTV to receive such a good score.

One reason for the great of this HDTV has to do with the colors. It offers crisp and vivid tones that seem just right regardless of the image onscreen. In many instances, a TV will show bad or horribly wrong shades for a character’s skin tone and object in and around image will also seem off color. With the Vizio GV52LF HDTV you can go from setup to TV watching without having to adjust multiple options to get the colors just right.

The four different HDMI ports will allow you to create a great media room as it lets you connect cable boxes, HD players, and even an HD digital video recorder (DVR). The Vizio GV52LF HDTV has speakers that were built into the unit but then even if you turn the volume up to full power, you will still feel that the sound is not as great as it could be.

The Vizio also takes care to stray away from the solid black HDTV’s by adding a splash of color with the gray shades. While the TV unit is all black, below it are the speakers that shine with a lustrous grey tone. Unfortunately, if you take a closer look, the Vizio appears to be a bit more bulky on the bottom and that is not seen in similar models.

The remote control is backlit and easy to see in the dark so that you can control the HDTV without turning on the lights. On the very top of the control are a series of buttons featuring different numbers. In the middle is a circular button that you can use to navigate. On the very bottom are the input buttons that will allow you to switch to different electronics connected to the Vizio GV52LF HDTV.

The remote is almost completely black but like the HDTV unit it has sleek grey designs to match. You will be able to easily control and setup the TV using a well written and detailed instruction manual that is included in the packaging. You can walk through the simple setup and you can also learn everything you need to know about the remote control.

When you compare the menu onscreen to similar HDTV’s you may notice that it looks a little out dated but it does come with great features to make up for its bland look and design. You can easily view a second channel using the picture in picture. However, the Vizio GV52LF HDTV also has a picture by picture feature to allow side by side viewing of two channels instead of one box within a box.

The menu also includes temperature controls that will allow you to change the colors to tones that you find more pleasing than the factory settings. To use the picture in picture and picture by picture controls, you may be frustrated to learn that they do not have their own buttons on the remote. You have to find them via the onscreen menu each and every time you would like to use them.

The Samsung FP-T5084 review

This product is one of the best on the market when speaking about quality at a rather low price. The Samsung FP-T5084 makes other HDTVs look unaffordable for their quality because it is only $2400. Its aspect is also very shiny and it will look exceptional in any room. So, if you want to obtain the best quality for the best price, you might want to take a look at this product.

When talking about visuals this HDTV knows how to draw its fans. High definition scenes are amazing; real colors, without any artificial traces will make you feel like the characters are alive.  Also, the skin looks remarkably natural, so we can definitely say that everything looks real.

When watching rich color scenes, you may be surprised to see how this HDTV blends everything very good and manages to bring out detailed images. When tested on standard-definition quality, the Samsung FP-T5084 managed to get a good score, making everything smooth with minimum pixilation. So, with a good visual score this HDTV manages to be the best solution at an affordable price. It sure has better visual quality than other products which can be bought with the same price.

Menu features are various: it has predetermined settings like Standard or Movie mode, which look a lot better than choosing the DNIe. When enabling the DNIe you may notice vivid images with rich color; however, they also look artificial so that’s not a very good option. Some may like it; it depends on your taste.

The DNIe actually means Digital Natural Image engine and it helps create the right atmosphere by improving the color aspect and reducing background noise. It also has motion processing which gives a great visual percept to any pictures by making them look sharper.

You can choose the desired image settings in the OSD menu; it has RGB option, offset controls for the White Balance section and a menu called My Color Control; the menu is very useful because it helps you set the pink, green, blue, and white tones. My Color Control menu ensures that you set each color, so you will surely reach the desired image quality.

The design is quite eye catching. It has a shiny look with a chrome touch that will make it suitable for any elegant room. A disadvantage is the fact that things in your room may reflect on the screen, this might distract your attention when watching darker scenes. When talking about the sound quality, there isn’t much to say. Speakers can be found on the TV sides.  The sound is ok but the not best audio quality on the market. Sometimes it makes the audio a little bit confusing, so it’s not the best option when looking for the best audio score.

The Samsung FPT5084 also sports one feature that should be included in all big screen television sets. This screen comes fully equipped with Screen Burn Protection and it helps to prevent the burnt in look that takes over a screen if you leave the TV on long enough. A few different options are available and these allow you to choose the method you would prefer to help keep your screen in top health. One option known as scrolling will add designs that move across your screen so that no one section will be stuck on the same color, program or image. Another option called “white” will place white screen that will protect from burnt in movies that you may leave paused for a long period of time.

You might ask yourself why this product scored so much if it’s not the best. We don’t think it’s the best, we think it’s the best affordable HDTV. It’s solid, has a very nice design, and the price is suitable for any pocket. Of course, picky costumers might not choose it, but if you want the best you can get for a small price, this is your option. The Samsung FP-T5084 gets the job done, and it does it above average, which is very important when comparing it to other products out there.

Samsung LN-T5281F

Although $4500 may seem like a lot of money to spend on a HDTV, the amazing features that enhance the quality of this TV might justify the amount of money you are about to spend.

During the video tests, this product managed to impress with its minimal pixelation in the background scenes. When it comes to high definition videos, the Samsung LN-T5281F managed to have an excellent score. Skin tone is amazing, and physical features make everything look so realistic; however, it doesn’t manage to bring such natural skin colors like the Sony Bravia KDL-52XBR or the Vizio FV52LF do, but it managed to get a good score for natural looking skin colors.

The brightness and contrast levels are ok, nothing is wrong, and our Samsung managed to score above average. Details are really good, especially in the dark areas, even if you watch a movie with a poor quality. However, when switching on standard definition, like a football or baseball game, everything gets pixilated and has subpar color.

Another good advantage when testing this TV was backlighting, which made sure that the HDTV shows deeper and better quality blacks than the ones brought by a fluorescent backlight. You can test this by using the option in the on-screen menu which lets you set something on only half of the screen; you will surely notice the big difference between default settings and your current settings. However, make sure that you turn on the feature because its default setting is off.

There are various presets for you to choose from, like Dynamic or Movie mode; the DNIe setting, which means Digital Natural Image engine, reduces the background noise and makes images more detailed with its contrast enhancement. You will also find options like White Balance (with RGB settings for color temperature) and My Color Control with settings for each of the colors pink, blue, white, and green.

The audio quality is good but, unfortunately, not excellent. You cannot hear the lows very clear when comparing Samsung LN T5281F with Pioneer Kuro PDP-5010FD. It proved to be very disappointing because the sound is not as rich and full like the one brought by Pioneer Kuro PHP-5010FD. There are various inputs that you get: three HDMI, two composite and two sets of component. The USB port ensures that you can watch pictures or listen to music on your HDTV.

When analyzing the remote, most buttons are black; only few have back light and some of them are colored. The remote is black and has a wonderful and stylish design. Compared to other remotes, this one has smaller buttons but they have a well organized structure making any surfing smooth.

The Samsung LN-T5281F is incredibly similar to their T5265F model, but it is missing a key feature that is present in most HDTV’s and that is the ability to operate in 120Hz. However, this newer model also sports features missing in the 65F models. One of those features is the local dimming capability. Using the dim option, Samsung hopes to recreate the CRT so that you can have great performance from this gadget, and while its good, its not as great as what the CRT could offer.

The HDTV’s design is elegant and glossy with a narrow bezel, but not the thinnest available bezel. It also has a blue LED indicator for power which has the shape of an arc. Another great feature known as the LED Motion Plus, will allow you to reduce the lag on your screen. It does work well but if you’re not careful, you will eventually be left with dull shades of color on your screen.

If you are looking for a good performance TV, this is one of the best products; however, the price may be too high for the average buyers, so this product may not have many fans a first. However, if you wish for something with a lower price and good performance the Samsung FP-T5084 might be the best solution for you.

Samsung LN-T4061

The Samsung LN-T4061 looks very much like the HP-T4264, after all they both came from the same manufacturer. But they don’t seem to have only the manufacturer in common because their features and technology are almost identical. On the tests, both HDTVs managed to get almost the same marks.

Although the Samsung LN-T4061 is smaller than the HP-T4264, they are both the same when it comes to menu, design, remotes, etc. Another difference between those two would be the fact that Samsung LN supports 1080p and has an LCD panel, while the other uses a plasma screen.

This product is a bit above average compared to other products in its category. During the tests it managed to get a satisfactory score but it’s far from being on the first places. Everything looked good but it had some problems during the standard-definition test on DVD and TV shows.

The high-definition test, however, ran very smoothly and this product obtained a better mark. There were minor problems with the skin tones in 1080p but other than that everything was good.

When it comes to physically setting up this product, you won’t have any difficulties because everything is accessible. The connectors are found on the LN-T4061’s back so you won’t have any problems finding them.

Even if you don’t have any knowledge in technology you will eventually manage to set up the TV. This is a pretty good advantage since you need hours to set up most of the HDTVs on the market because you can’t figure out where everything is.

The menu is not complicated, having a well organized structure. Also, every option is easily found and if you wish, you can make the menu opaque to see everything better.

While you select the sources, it will automatically skip any source that cannot be found, this might prove a little tricky because if you have something and it doesn’t find it, you must select it from the provided list. There isn’t any option that lets you introduce your own source, if you cannot find it in the list.

You also have the freeze option and picture-in-picture if you want to see something from two sources; however, you aren’t allowed to watch from different channels. The USB port lets you see the pictures from your camera on the TV; you also have a jack for headphones. Using these options you can also connect a portable music player such as an iPod to listen to tunes as you fiddle with the Samsungs controls.

The remote isn’t the most comfortable and intuitive thing in the world. It’s rather long and not all the buttons have light; however, it can be programmed. Unfortunately, some of the smaller buttons may be a turn off for some consumers who may be visually impaired.

The sound is good, considering the fact that it comes from an internal system so this TV won’t have problems regarding its sound.

This is one of the average quality HDTVs, although images look good on it, sometimes you have the feeling that something is missing. The skin tones aren’t very real, as it tends to lighten them. Overall this is a good HDTV for someone who isn’t very pretentious because overall this will prove to be a good LCD TV that will bring satisfaction to most of its buyers.

Samsung LN46A550 LCD HDTV

User-friendly and a certified eye candy--two reasons why this TV set is an excellent choice.

Save for some minor slips like images on shown on the set that’s lacking detail and user’s manual isn’t completely helpful, the Samsung LN46A550 is almost a complete package. It is easy to see that this TV is almost perfect.

First up is an image test. We scouted nine 46- and 47-inch high definition sets .And among these; it is the one from Samsung that got attention. This set particularly got a high rating for its Blu-ray discs. The set makes pictures look like they’ve come straight from 35mm print as shown when we viewed Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl. Vizio’s VO47LF and the Syntax-Brillian’s Olevia 747i followed the ratings of the Samsung.

Speaking of audio, the TV’s audio system isn’t primed for high-end sound experience. But if you’re in for talk and regular shows, then the set’s audio will just be fine and you can omit the surround sound stereo. However, if you prefer to listen to deafening sounds of your movies, an external gadget can easily be used to improve the sound quality.

Yes, this TV is easy to use. It has an icon-based on-screen menu that can be understood easily. Need help? Then there’s an explanation about the menu as well. When you need to check up on options for the current input, all you need to do is to access the separate tools button on the remote control.

This works just like your pc’s mouse. There’s more; when you need to play a connected device, the easy-to-use LN46A550 instantly switches the input to that source. A major feature of the Samsung is the convenience factor. Much of the controls that need to be used can be used automatically, without the need of a few extra steps.

One of the only problems that you will find involves the remote control. It has backlit buttons that are large enough to be viewed by almost everyone, however if you like the picture in picture option and use it frequently, you will have to go through the menu option each time, there are no buttons assigned to it. Another issue with the remote is that you cannot use it to control other electronics such as a VCR because there is no way to program it.

With large and easy to see buttons, you’d think that the remote control is perfect. Not quite. Missing is a helpful PiP button for your easy access to Picture-in-Picture. Also, that ratio button is mislabeled. Who will immediately know what a P-Size is? Playing your devices like DVD will be tasking as well since it isn’t programmable. Well you can still play these devices if you want to, granted that you use the brand’s proprietary Anynet technology.  The HDMI ‘s Consumer Electronics Control channel will make it possible.

The set-up guide and bilingual manual is supposed to facilitate that easy set-up. But the opposite happens. The guide is difficult to comprehend for the non-techie person and the manual is long and too complicated. While the price of some flat screen TV’s are too high due to a bad product, the Samsung offers enough options  to justify the price.

So why is the LN46A550 such a good buy at $1500? That’s because of its features. Its USB port is helpful when you view pictures and listen to music. On the side of the set are the easy-to-access HDMI, S-Video and the USB. Want to change the angle of the set for viewing pleasure? Then you can do that as well, as the set can swivel on its stand. Reasons such as these help make the set a well-rounded HDTV and a winner.

Syntax-Brillian Olevia 747i LCD HDTV Review

The universe maintains its balance with the Syntax-Brillian Olevia 747i LCD HDTV's awful design and great image quality. On one hand, the Olevia 747i could be far ahead of its time. On the other hand, it might just be a little too far ahead. Check out the on-screen menus. The 747i gets points for originality with its bolt-shaped interface when you access the remote's menu.

Cute though it might be, you'll be wishing it were less cute if it meant actual practicality. The display is sorely lacking. Something as simple as adjusting the picture quality can be taxing, what with the way the 747i displays just one video option at a given time.

One thing the Olevia 747i has going for it is its impressive picture quality. For that alone, it lands on the third spot out of the nine 46-inch and 47-inch HDTV sets tested at that point, hot on the heels of the Vizio VO47LF (second place) and the Samsung LN46A550 (first place).

A few note-worthy hitches mentioned were the graininess in a few images, and at one point it seemed like Dave Letterman received an unseemly tan in The Late Show clip. Not to make it seem like this set only had bad things to offer. One viewer credited the set for showing a clip of According to Jim and making it look very natural.

The 747i gets top points for sound quality as well. The set poses no difficulty in projecting either quiet or loud sounds, with whispers coming off cleanly and clearly, and music that you can rock out to. The Olevia 747i's speakers are removable, giving users the option to mount them somewhere else for a desired effect, or to connect additional external speakers to the TV.

The remote gives the 747i an added charm, with its brilliant backlighting feature that activates with a press of a button. The buttons are well-spaced and big enough to make life easier for the avid TV surfer.

Besides the most basic features, operating the Olevia 747i can be a pain. The ill-thought design reaches all the way to the back of the set that even locating something as simple as the AC power connector becomes a chore. The quick-start guide is virtually wordless and helpful only enough to tell that it was behind the TV.

The operations manual isn't even on paper. Instead, it's a PDF file that comes along with the CD. And just when you thought it couldn't get more difficult, the PDF file comes in bitmaps of text instead of actual text. Virtually nothing is printed on paper, and the digital information provided is difficult to navigate.

A pleasantly surprising feature of the TV set is the Welcome wizard that appears the first time you turn on your TV. This application asks you if you'll be doing your viewing at home or in a showroom. Unfortunately, this highlights a notorious flaw in most TVs these past few years. They're engineered to look fantastic in a store, but wait until you set it up at home.

While it is a great HDTV that offers good quality for your money, don’t expect to see anything new. This Syntax Brillian Olevia 747i does not have features or a design that makes it stand out from the rest of the TV’s on the market. It is however, seamless and will look great in the room of your choice. However, you will find the included speakers and they can be attached to the sides easily. If you choose to hook up the speakers, they will make the entire screen seem bulkier than usual.

This should be a lesson to Syntax-Brillian and all other HDTV manufacturers. Between easy-to-use or sleek and bizarre, users will always prefer the former over the latter. The bottom line, however, is in its performance and image quality. At that, the Syntax-Brillian Olevia 747i LCD HDTV gets it right.