Posts Tagged ‘Versatility’
Canon 2591B002 DM 100 Directional Stereo Microphone for HF HG Series Camcorders
DM-100 Directional Stereo Microphone for the VIXIA HF10 and VIXIA HF100 Camcorders. Compatible with the: VIXIA HF S10 Dual Flash Memory, VIXIA HF20 Dual Flash Memory, VIXIA HF100 Flash Memory, VIXIA HG20 Hard Disk Drive
User Ratings and Reviews
3 Stars Get the Rode mic instead.
This mic is okay, and unfortunately that’s about it. It looks ridiculous, it feels incredibly cheap and flimsy, and it records semi-decent sound. The biggest problem I personally have with this mic is that it’s essentially crippled by begin limited to the “mini hotshoe.” What’s the point? Why didn’t Canon include the option to have an external jack so you could use it as a boom/over-head/portable off cam mic? Why does it have to be permanently restricted to the hotshoe of a super select few Canon video cameras? It doesn’t even work with the hotshoe of the Canon DSLRs capable of HD video like the 5D mark II and 7D.
Also, the mic just looks so cheap. Really, I wouldn’t care about this so much if it wasn’t for the fact that it looks cheap because it is cheap. It feels like if the wind blew hard enough that the thing could snap right off of my HF100’s hotshoe. Ultimately this mic does what you’d would expect… record higher quality audio than the on-board mic, but that’s it. The Rode mic will do that, and has better build quality, more versatility, and looks so much nicer.
3 Stars Better than the built in
This Canon microphone is clearly better than the built in. It was purchased for a Canon Vixia AVCHD hi-def (Blu-ray standard) digital video camera. Since the built-in microphones on the camera is virtually worthless (unless you’re on a tripod filming relatively remote stuff) I had to either find a solution or return the camera. This was a relatively expensive adder and I found it more or less useful in the following areas: 1) Eliminates ambient noise directly surrounding the camera – YES, very good. The camera’s built-in microphones pick up everything nearby from footsteps to normal breathing, usually with enough gain to wash out the intended distant audio. This mic virtually eliminates that problem and was the principal reason for mmy purchase. 2) Switches from “Shotgun (mono)” to “90 degree (stereo)” to “120 degree (stereo)” configurations – YES, marginally effective. While I don’t have the lab equipment to test this sort of stuff empirically, the practical matter is there isn’t much of a difference between these modes except the mono/stereo part. Stereo is obtained by sensing sounds along the horizonal axis of the mic on both sides. Works. Mono is obtained by sensing sounds directionally from just the front of the mic. Works. Discernable dispersion between 90 vs 120 degrees? – maybe. Not a reason to buy this mic, IMO. 3) Shotgun produces better audio for distant subjects. MAYBE. The best part about this is the elimination of nearby ambient sounds that would have otherwise washed out your distant subject’s audio. Does it amplify or increase the clarity of a distant subject? Not really. 4) Windscreen works. YES. Works very well. Really great if you’re going after the “Looks like a dead Guinea Pig on top of your camera” look. 5) General quality and construction. CHEAPO. Feels cheap. Plastic used for the hotshoe mount looks like it will break if you stare hard enough at it. Don’t ever put your camera in the bag or toss it around with the mic attached!! Once fitted to the camera it is steady and doesn’t slip off and is snug in its hotshoe. Overall I gave this three stars because I thought, for the money and the Canon name, I’d be getting a lot more. If I’d paid half or less of what I paid, it probably would have earned the extra star or two. But for me, despite the price, it was a completely necessary addition to my camera bag. Maybe what I should have bought was a universal wireless remote mic (or a different camera) instead. But then again, how often do you get to “mic” a distant subject?
BZ
5 Stars Great Microphone–Far Exceeded Expectations
I purchased a Canon VIXIA HF11 High Definition (HD) camcorder to take on a once-in-a-life-time 15-day family vacation to Hawaii. I needed to minimize the risk of capturing bad video/audio because I’ll probably never be ever to afford to vacation in Hawaii again. This camcorder picked up a lot of wind noise while testing on a windy day. Wind noise can be very distracting to viewers, so I wanted to minimize this problem as much as possible. The Canon DM-100 directional stereo microphone had mixed reviews, but I thought it was worth a $150 gamble to dramatically improve the quality of audio captured on my family’s Hawaiian vacation.
As usual, Amazon.com provided great service in fulfilling my order as I received the mic within just a few days. The mic looks huge when mounted on the camcorder. However, both the mic and its windsock cover appear to be made of high quality materials.
We spent 15 days in Oahu visiting all of the major tourist attractions (e.g. Pearl Harbor, Kualoa Ranch, etc.), Waikiki Beach, and Turtle Bay up on the North Shore. I used the Canon DM-100 mic on at least half the scenes taken, and forgot to use it for several other scenes. Three days after returning home from Hawaii, I took the camcorder and DM-100 mic with me on a trip to northern Minnesota, and recorded some scenes of my Dad on his bass boat fishing.
After I returned home from Minnesota, I tranferred all of the captured video to my video editing computer. Bottom line, it was absolutely amazing to hear how effective the DM-100 mic was. Several scenes taken without it contained a lot of wind noise, while scenes captured using the mic contained little or none. For example, I could clearly hear the crashing waves while viewing beach scenes, and the noise of the waves made by my Dad’s fast-moving fishing boat (as it traversed across the lake)–with little or no wind noise.
Bottom line, the Canon DM-100 mic was well worth $150 Amazon purchase price, and I highly recommend it to those who will be using their Canon HF/HG series camcorders extensively outdoors.
5 Stars It’s a great addition to my Canon Vixia
My wife and I were looking for a good digital camera to document our kids’ performances in school choir and band. I initially bought and used an HDD (hard disk drive) JVC Everio digital camera for a while. It was good but then I decided to go High Definition and chose the AVCHD Canon Vixia HF100 (SD memory card). There is no way you can compare the quality of video and sound between the JVC Everio and the Canon Vixia. They are on two different levels. I was very impressed with the Vixia’s high definition quality and stereo sound. Canon had just come out with the DM-100 telescopic microphone with the “fuzzy” cover since the Vixia’s hot shoe was specific to the Vixia. My wife and I noticed a huge difference when using the DM-100 telescopic microphone. We usually video from a long distance and there are instances when we video the marching band during parades or during band performances at school games. We have noticed the digital camera’s built-in microphone does well but picks up whatever people say or yell when they are right next to you. The telescopic microphone does not pick up these nearby sounds. We’ve had people yell and scream while the band plays and these sounds were not picked up. The band’s performance was recorded flawlessly. I’m so happy with the Vixia HF100 (SD memory card slot) that I decided to buy a Canon Vixia HF10 (built-in 16gb memory and sports an additional SD memory expansion card slot). I just found out Amazon was selling the DM-100 microphone at this great price and bought it. I’ve been so happy with the first DM-100 telescopic microphone that I know I would have regretted not buying this second one for my new Vixia HF10. This DM-100 microphone’s ability to change from shotgun, 90 or 180 degree coverage is very handy. I only wish I had run across this price when I bought the first microphone 
5 Stars Essential accessory for the Canon Vixia line camcorders
Watch Video Here: http://www.amazon.com/review/RHUTCGOBAKEY So, you bought a Canon Vixia camcorder? The picture is stunning – and it’s hard to believe you can get such beautiful images from such a compact camcorder. Unfortunately, there is no way you’ll get top notch sound from a compact camcorder, no matter how much you paid for it. This isn’t a matter of a design flaw; it has to do with the physics of sound: a directional microphone needs to be long; for best sound the microphone needs to be physically separated from the body of the camera; finally, some kind of muffle is needed to prevent wind and breath from interfering with sound. Canon’s DM-100 is designed to achieve all of these things for the sound of the Vixia line camcorders, without overwhelming the simplicity and ease of a compact camcorder. I’m very happy with it.
It plugs in directly to the mini advanced shoe on the Vixia camcorders. When it is plugged in it automatically becomes the mike for recordings – no need to fiddle with settings. Importantly, it is small enough that it doesn’t overwhelm the compact size of the Vixia camcorders. Sure, the “Dead Cat” looks a bit silly, but it makes a huge difference outdoors in the wind; and you can take it off for indoor shoots where you want to take advantage of just the directional aspects of the mike. There are three basic settings: shotgun (for focusing sound capture to sounds directly in front of the microphone), 90 degrees and 120 degrees.
ABOUT THIS VIDEO:
For this video I only focused on how this mike improves outdoor shooting, and also on showing what the DM-100 looks like on the Vixia camcorders – I have the HF10 and the HFS10, so I took pictures with it on both of these, with the “dead cat” on and off. I also used the HF10 (no mike attached) to shoot me shooting with the HFS10 with the DM-100 mike attached, then I synched up the sound so I could alternate between the sound with and without the mike. For the purposes of shooting myself in my front yard, I didn’t think the directional settings would be useful, so I left it on the DM-100 on the 90 degree setting the whole time. I also didn’t think there would be any good way to give a real sense for the quality of the sound via this (quick and dirty) video review – but the look of the mike and the wind elimination are obvious. Note that the video starts out with the sound from the onboard mike of the VIXIA HF10, and then I indicate with cool flashing text when I’m recording with the DM-100 (MIKE ON!) or with the HF10 onboard mike (MIKE OFF!). You should note that it’s not just wind noise you hear when I’m recording with the on board camera, there’s also just a low system hum that is almost completely eliminated when recording the the DM-100. I know the video is quick but I prefer to put most of my review in the text and think of the video as merely an illustration – if you want to look more closely at the pictures, just pause and gander all you like.
FINAL WORD:
If you care at all about sound, and especially if you will ever shoot outdoors, you probably need some kind of external mike for your Vixia camcorder. There are better microphones than this one, and even cheaper ones; but you have to remember that if you buy another mike you’ll also need some kind of adapter if you want it to mount on top of your Vixia, and it won’t power directly through the Vixia, plus you’ll have a wire hanging around that plugs into the external mike input mini plug. For most non-professional and semi-professional situations, the DM-100 will give you the sound you need, is easy to use with the Canon Vixia camcorders, and looks good on top of your camera.
Canon Speedlite 430EX II Flash for Canon Digital SLR Cameras
Bringing a new level of versatility and capability to flash photography, the Speedlite 430EX II features a powerful flash (guide number of 141 ft./43m at ISO 100) with a fast recycling time in a compact, durable body. A one-touch quick-lock mechanism makes it easy to attach or detach the 430EX II from the camera and a metal foot has been added for strength and durability. Flash controls can now be set through the camera’s LCD screen on compatible EOS Digital SLR cameras. The Speedlite 430EX II is also quieter, recycle time is 20 percent faster (as compared to the 430EX) and since it is compatible with Canon’s wireless E-TTL, it can be used as an affordable “slave unit.”
User Ratings and Reviews
5 Stars So easy and fast recycle time
I just put in bateries, connected it to my 50D, turned it on and began shooting. It was great! Also the bateries lasted me through an entire wedding reception and a birthday party. Love this and would recommend it to anyone looking for a great flash!
5 Stars Great flash…
It’s an awesome flash but goes through batteries pretty quick… Then again, a lot of flashes generally go through batteries quickly. Great product nonetheless!
5 Stars exactly as expected
the 430 ex II is much better than the previous version. Just what I needed!
5 Stars This changed my life.
Honestly, the quality of this product is amazing. It’s really not so much the seller experience i had as it is the actual product that is so amazing, tho the seller was extremely easy to go thru, they shipped quickly, and I received the product in the mail right on schedule with when they told me it would be here.
5 Stars best single improvement for indoor shots
I had high expectations for a $250 flash, and was not disappointed. We primarily bought it because the built-in flash for my XTi wasn’t recycling fast enough; after 5-10 shots it was too slow to be useful. This EX430 is *fast*, tho; faster than the camera in “auto” mode.
My wife is the primary user, and in “full auto” mode it is a fantastic addition to the camera. I recommend the $10 diffuser, but even without the flash does great with the bounce.
Canon Speedlite 430EX II Flash for Canon Digital SLR Cameras
Bringing a new level of versatility and capability to flash photography, the Speedlite 430EX II features a powerful flash (guide number of 141 ft./43m at ISO 100) with a fast recycling time in a compact, durable body. A one-touch quick-lock mechanism makes it easy to attach or detach the 430EX II from the camera and a metal foot has been added for strength and durability. Flash controls can now be set through the camera’s LCD screen on compatible EOS Digital SLR cameras. The Speedlite 430EX II is also quieter, recycle time is 20 percent faster (as compared to the 430EX) and since it is compatible with Canon’s wireless E-TTL, it can be used as an affordable “slave unit.”
User Ratings and Reviews
5 Stars So easy and fast recycle time
I just put in bateries, connected it to my 50D, turned it on and began shooting. It was great! Also the bateries lasted me through an entire wedding reception and a birthday party. Love this and would recommend it to anyone looking for a great flash!
5 Stars Great flash…
It’s an awesome flash but goes through batteries pretty quick… Then again, a lot of flashes generally go through batteries quickly. Great product nonetheless!
5 Stars best single improvement for indoor shots
I had high expectations for a $250 flash, and was not disappointed. We primarily bought it because the built-in flash for my XTi wasn’t recycling fast enough; after 5-10 shots it was too slow to be useful. This EX430 is *fast*, tho; faster than the camera in “auto” mode.
My wife is the primary user, and in “full auto” mode it is a fantastic addition to the camera. I recommend the $10 diffuser, but even without the flash does great with the bounce.
5 Stars This changed my life.
Honestly, the quality of this product is amazing. It’s really not so much the seller experience i had as it is the actual product that is so amazing, tho the seller was extremely easy to go thru, they shipped quickly, and I received the product in the mail right on schedule with when they told me it would be here.
5 Stars exactly as expected
the 430 ex II is much better than the previous version. Just what I needed!
Camera shake can ruin your photos, particularly when taking telephoto shots or shooting in low light conditions. This Tamron 28-300mm f/3.5-6.3 macro zoom lens, however, fights camera shake with its state-of-the-art vibration compensation (VC) mechanism, which delivers blur-free handheld images for incredible results. The proprietary VC mechanism employs a three-coil system that moves the VC lens electromagnetically based on signals originating from the movement of three steel balls. The lens element that compensates for vibration is held in place by the balls, so there is little friction and the movement is quite smooth. The end result is a technology that makes it possible to create exceptional images at slower shutter speeds under conditions where a tripod used to be necessary. You can also use subject movement to good effect with the lens, bringing out the contrast between motion and stillness, or shoot without a flash to evoke the genuine atmosphere of the scene.
The lens covers an extremely broad range of focal lengths, from a wide 28mm length to a super-telephoto 300mm length (the 35mm equivalent of 43 to 465mm). Even better, the vibration compensation works throughout the entire zoom range, giving you the freedom to create a wide variety of different images. Other details include a macro magnification ratio of 1:3, a rotational zoom, a minimum focusing distance of 19.3 inches, and a 67mm filter diameter. The lens, which measures 3.06 inches in diameter and 3.9 inches long, carries a six-year warranty.
User Ratings and Reviews
4 Stars Love the versatility!
Overall I am pleased with the lens. It’s nice not to have to be switching back and forth, but as has been mentioned in many of the reviews I had read, the autofocus is kind of slow. One of my favorite things to shoot is car and motorcycle racing, and for this I’ve found it’s just not up to the task. For motorsports my Canon 55-250 gives me much better results.
4 Stars Great all-around lens
When I traded my Canon 50D for the 5D Mark II, I had to surrender all my EF-s lenses and the Tamron 18-270 VC that had been my “walk around” lens. I had found this 18-270 to be better built than the Canon 18-200, so, based on this experience, it was only natural to add the Tamron 28-300 VC lens to my camera bag.
My first usage coincided with a 3 week visit to England that is only now ending. I packed both my Canon 24-105 L f/4 and the Tamron 28-300. I used both about 50% of the time with the 24-105 for close encounters inside castles and cathedrals where the extra wide angle was needed as well as the low light capturing of the f/4 aperture.
While it has been said that comparing a Canon “L” to other less costly lenses is like comparing caviar and hot dogs, I could not see any differences in the computer files that I posted to our travel web site. I’ll examine the differences more closely when I get back home and begin making prints and putting together the book that will be published next year.
I am impressed with the smooth zooming of the Tamron compared with the somewhat sticky motion of the Canon. Of course, this is why there is a lock on the Tamron and I usually click it closed when walking around – otherwise, the barrel extends to the full 300mm setting and is awkward. The lock lever on this 28-300 is much easier to use than the lock on the 18-270 (which was a bit sticky and took a lot of coaxing to activate). So, I would say the build quality of the 28-300 is even better than the 18-270. Focus is very quick and the focus motor noise is not objectionable.
Tamron has done a very nice job of building a great super zoom, universal lens that meets my needs, is not too heavy and appears to make great images.
4 Stars Excellent travel lense
I own two Nikon prime lenses that I use with my D700: the 24-70 f/2.8 and the 70-200 f/2.8. As I was planning a trip to Europe I decided to look for a more compact, lighter super zoom. After going through a number of reviews I decided to purchase the Tamron AF 28-300. It is very compact and light compared to my other two main lenses. I have been extremely satisfied with the results and so have been my shoulders! Of course it is not a prime lense and it does not feel like a Nikon but it did the job very well allowing me to zoom in and out depending on the situation. The wide range also allowed me to not have to change lenses which I consider a great advantage since I mainly shot outside: I did not have to worry about dust or trying to find a safe place to change lenses. The fact that I use a D700 with it helped make up for the fact that it does not open as much as my Nikon lenses. It did however, as I had read, have a bit of difficulty focusing at 300 and when I did some night shots. It is also noisier than my other lenses but I quickly stopped noticing it. I think that this is a very good lense for travelling.
5 Stars Very Satisfied
I purchased this as a used item, but it arrived packed in the original box and wraping and looked like new. It came as scheduled and I would use this supplier again without question.
5 Stars Lens Review
Bought lens 6 weeks ago and am very impressed with its capability. The image stabilization really locks on and the lens clarity is excellent. I consider this lens to be of pro quality. Have shot still and air show subjects and the lens operated excellently.
This universal high-power flash unit for digital SLR cameras is the perfect accessory for any photographer looking for reduced red-eye, evenly lit subjects, or more power for telephoto shooting. This flash can be effective at ranges of over 50 feet, reduces shadows, and adds depth to your pictures thanks to the adjustable head, which zooms, swivels and tilts for added versatility.
User Ratings and Reviews
4 Stars A good budget flash.
I’m using this on an Olympus E-VOLT E300. Had no problems getting it set up, and it certainly worked well. Used it primarily for bounce work at a wedding, and it performed admirably.
The best thing about this, I discovered, is that it actually gets better battery performance than they detail in their info on it. They say approx 150 shots per battery load, but I was up to 220 and it was still working fine. Haven’t tested beyond that, but I’ll be sure to on my next set. With the price of batteries eating into my pocket on other devices, this was a huge bonus.
If you’re looking for a cheap flash to play around with, this is it.
4 Stars Excellent Value
I think… $50 is an excellent value for this flash. It is powerful, highly recommended, i have a Canon PowerShot SX10 IS Canon Powershot SX10IS 10MP Digital Camera with 20x Wide Angle Optical Image Stabilized Zoom, you need to “play” with manual settings a little bit, but results are very nice.
5 Stars Good flash for beginer
Test it in manual mode with Canon Xsi, the flash is very powerful, I have to set ISO to 100. Most of the settings in the back of the flash is useful for zoom lens and prime lens as well. Highly recommended.
4 Stars capitol city ent.
yes i like the Precision Design DSLR300 Universal High Power Auto Flash with Zoom/Bounce/Swivel Head for Digital SLR Cameras it is a good flash for the price.
1 Star Very bad
This Flash can not be connected to the Olympus E420 camera as advertised .
Next time I will be very careful buying from Amazon.
Ulrich T. Urhan
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