Canon USA BP-512 Directional Stereo Mic DM 50 for Camcorders with Advanced Access Shoe

You looking to find the "Canon USA BP-512 Directional Stereo Mic DM 50 for Camcorders with Advanced Access Shoe" Good news! You can purchase Canon USA BP-512 Directional Stereo Mic DM 50 for Camcorders with Advanced Access Shoe with secure price and compare to view update price on this product. And deals on this product is available only for limited time.

Price: $152.28 $139.95   

Product Feature

• Directional stereo microphone
• Fits onto Canon camcorders equipped with advanced accessory shoe

Product Description

Get near-professional quality sound for your movies and more with this DM-50 Directional Stereo Microphone that connects to the Advanced Accessory Shoe. Select from pure shotgun or shotgun + surrounding sound modes.

Canon USA BP-512 Directional Stereo Mic DM 50 for Camcorders with Advanced Access Shoe Review

The build quality is better than expected. It feels solid in your hand and well put together. The DM-50 fits well onto the camera and is nicely balanced. It runs a little less than the length of the camera, so it does not overwhelm the camera's profile. This is not a big issue, but it does mean the microphone should not get in your way under normal shooting conditions.

The microphone itself has some play, presumably to cushion it from camera noise. If so, it does not do a perfect job - more on this below.

To discuss the audio quality, I have to discuss the three modes, "Shotgun", "Stereo 1" and "Stereo 2".

"Shotgun" mode captures audio primarily from directly in front of the camera. While I have done no scientific tests I would guess it's main balance is at about 35 or so degrees. This mode captures sound in mono from a single element at the front of the unit. In this mode the audio quality is not great. There is little low-end response and the quality and the sound has, for lack of a better term, a slightly plastic quality to it. It is surprising when compared to the sound recorded from the side elements, which seem warmer and more dynamic.

"Stereo 1" mode seems to capture sound at about 90 degrees, combining both the front element and two separate elements along the side. The overall perceived quality of the sound is much better than using the shotgun alone. There is more warmth and richness in this mode, and it provides a nice balance of front centered sound, with some ambience from the sides.

"Stereo 2" mode captures sound at more than 180 degrees. The rear facing element seems to be designed to capture nearby sounds, but not more distant sounds. This could only be my perception, but if not, it seems like a nice way to allow commentary from the camera operator. However, the "Stereo 2" seems to be a little too weighted towards capturing sound from the sides at some expense to the front element. As a result, the sound quality itself is a little better, but the mix appears slightly off.

In all three modes, the isolation of sound it not perfect. Because the provided documentation says almost nothing about how the DM50 is designed, it is difficult to know how many elements are present and in what combination they are recording sound in each mode. It seems that even in "Shotgun Mode" the left and right front elements are still slightly present, but mixed in mono with the front facing mic.

In terms of eliminating motor noise, the DM50 does a better job than the on-board microphone, but the sounds of the motor and any manipulation of the controls are still present. In "Stereo 2" mode, the motor noise is cut in half from what you hear from the on-board microphones. In "Stereo 1" mode the noise is down to about a quarter and in "Shotgun" I would estimate it is about an eighth.

With the Canon HV20, the most common sound issue I find is with clicking the function button while shooting to gain control over exposure (usually a three click process). The DM50 does not eliminate this sound. In "Shotgun" mode the DM50 does the best job of reducing the problem, but even with the rubber rings in which the microphone rests, some of that sound it transfered up the camera.

The DM-50 promises "near professional" quality sound and that is what it provides. For professional sound you will need to find a more dedicated microphone, such as the VideoMic or Stereo VideoMic, or perhaps both if you wish to have coverage for the same theoretical range as the DM-50. However, the DM-50 provides excellent flexibility that it's competitors do not, so you should consider what your shooting needs are. The DM-50 also does not use batteries, but draws power from the Camera's battery. This can be either an advantage or a disadvantage depending your preference, but it is something to keep in mind when purchasing.

The DM-50 is best suited to users who want a single, trouble free microphone that can carry them through a variety of situations. In "Stereo 1" mode, the microphone is at it's best, providing a good balanced sound, though I wish sound from all around the microphone were captured in even quality. This disparity is perhaps the biggest problem with the microphone.

Most of the consumer Reviews tell that the "Canon USA BP-512 Directional Stereo Mic DM 50 for Camcorders with Advanced Access Shoe" are high quality item. You can read each testimony from consumers to find out cons and pros from Canon USA BP-512 Directional Stereo Mic DM 50 for Camcorders with Advanced Access Shoe ...

Canon GL1 MiniDV Digital Camcorder with Lens & Optical Image Stabilization

You looking to find the "Canon GL1 MiniDV Digital Camcorder with Lens & Optical Image Stabilization" Good news! You can purchase Canon GL1 MiniDV Digital Camcorder with Lens & Optical Image Stabilization with secure price and compare to view update price on this product. And deals on this product is available only for limited time.

Price: $3,358.98 $2,800.00   

Product Feature

• MiniDV camcorder with 3 CCD technology
• 20x optical, 100x digital, zoom with optical image stabilization
• 2.5 inch color LCD and color EVF
• Records digital stills onto MiniDV tape
• Comes with wireless remote, battery pack, and power adapter

Product Description

A digital camcorder with 20x optical zoom, 2.5" TFT color LCD screen, & a Firewire port PCM Digital Stereo Sound 3 CCD Image Sensors with Pixel Shift help provide outstanding picture detail (Each CCD is assigned to handle one of the three primary colors - Red, Green and Blue) IEEE1394 FireWire video editing interface with compatibility for comparably equipped PC or Macintosh computer systems Ergonomic controls A/V Dubbing Integrated directional microphone Includes - BP-915 Rechargeable battery (optional long life BP-930 or 941 may be purchased separately), AC adapter/charger, SS-650 Shoulder strap, S-Video cable, Stereo A/V cable, DVM-E30 DV cassette tape, Integrated lens hood

Canon GL1 MiniDV Digital Camcorder with Lens & Optical Image Stabilization Review

This is one incredible camera. Here are some of the best features about it:-3CCDs-L Series Fluorite Lens-All Manual Controls-Progressive Scan-Optical Stabilization-Large Manual Focus RingOf course, we all know that 3CCDs are far better than one... I need not go into more depth there. As far as the lens goes, some have argued that they see no difference of quality over that of Sony's. This may be due in part to the fact that they are looking for a difference in resolution. When compared in numbers to some of the 3CCD models of Sony, you may think that this is a lower resolution camera (which can be a very deceiving thing). It is recognized that a camera with a high resolution in numbers does not equal a pleasing, or sharper image. When you compare the color of a Sony and this GL1 (or any other Canon against a Sony, for that matter), there will be no comparison. The Sony will inevitably lean towards the blues, giving a very cold, unnatural feeling, which can often result in having to waste time in post, by adding color corrections. The Canon will have a much warmer, more natural coloring. With deeper, richer blacks.The Progressive Scan (or frame mode) is beautiful. It gives the footage a much more film like jitteriness, instead of the liquid smooth interlaced footage that is usually the only option you have on most Sony camera models. It is called "frame mode" because it captures 30 FULL frames per second, instead of 60 FIELDS per second (top field and bottom field) being joined together to make the 30 frames, which when slowed down will show interlaced lines. Some say ...that Progressive Scan is only meant for a "digital motor drive" where you capture 30 frames per second with the intent of getting still pictures from it. Yes, this is a possibility... but no, video is not really high resolution enough to use this for any real purpose other than having a somewhat grainy image for a home web site. I have not heard of ANY professional using it for anything other than to shoot a real project, as true video footage. Video to film transfer locations prefer people to use progressive scan to shoot on their GL1 or XL1 for film transfer. It loses much less quality in the process. There are many commercials and documentaries (as well as independent films) which have started shooting in progressive scan on the GL1 and XL1, in order to get the higher budget film look.The manual controls on this camera give you such control, that you can achieve truly professional results. You have control over - Shutter Speed, Aperture, Gain, White Balance, Focus, exposure, etc. If you want the choppy effect of Saving Private Ryan, or Gladiator's battle scenes, just up the shutter speed to 250 or higher. Or if you want a lot of background blur, open the lens way up.Ah, yes... the image stabilization. You won't get anything close to it on other brands. They all have a slight shake, and jitter, never truly stabilizing it, especially when zoomed. This one has none. It only floats. And of course, if you want that jittery handheld look of some of the new films and such, just turn it off. But when you want smooth, non jittery handheld shots it's always there.If you are trying to decide what camera to get, always go down the Canon road. Almost all of them have features that Sony only tries to make up for with home userish built effects and such cheesy non-professional effects that one can achieve if they have a computer to edit on (and still want the effects by then. Why record it permanently, when you might change your mind later). Some Sony users complain about how Canon does not have good still picture resolution. I say, "who needs still pictures on a camcorder??" That should be left to 35mm, or a digital camera devoted to that form of media alone. I have yet to see a printable, good looking still even from a Sony. Both the video format, and the small included memory cards cannot handle the resolution required of this. With all the manual controls, the far superior color, and the incredible look of progressive scan, one must have only the choice to go Canon. If you are an aspiring documentary or commercial maker trying to decide between a GL1 and an XL1 (not likely), the advantage of the GL1 (besides the price) is that it is small. This allows you to be in crowds shooting, without stares from everybody. Or shoot where you would otherwise be unable. This can also be a downfall. It may look wimpy to the client (of course, once they see the footage, they will probably buy one themselves). ....Lastly, I just want to say that I would highly recommend this camera, but if you can afford it, go with the XL1 (...), it is even better! Help other customers find the most helpful reviews Was this review helpful to you? Yes No Report abuse | PermalinkComment Comment (1)

Most of the consumer Reviews tell that the "Canon GL1 MiniDV Digital Camcorder with Lens & Optical Image Stabilization" are high quality item. You can read each testimony from consumers to find out cons and pros from Canon GL1 MiniDV Digital Camcorder with Lens & Optical Image Stabilization ...

Aviator A1 Travel Jib Mag Aloy Aluminum Kit - 24" Long - Extends to 6'

You looking to find the "Aviator A1 Travel Jib Mag Aloy Aluminum Kit - 24" Long - Extends to 6'" Good news! You can purchase Aviator A1 Travel Jib Mag Aloy Aluminum Kit - 24" Long - Extends to 6' with secure price and compare to view update price on this product. And deals on this product is available only for limited time.

Price: $497.00    

Product Feature

• Aviator Travel Jib - Mag Alloy Kit (A1)
• Weighs less than 3 ¾ lbs.
• 24 inches long - Extends to 6 feet!
• Sets up in under 1 minute
• Easy Set Up - Pro Features

Product Description

The Aviator Travel Jib compacts down to 24 inches, extends to 6 feet, weighs less than 3 ¾ pounds (supporting cameras up to 6.5lbs!) and sets up in under a minute. That makes it the perfect camera motion accessory whether you're shooting on the other side of town or the other side of the world. Use it to shoot weddings, extreme sports, documentaries, indie films, music videos, real estate, travel, commercials, corporate, and more to dramatically raise your production value. The Aviator kit comes complete with a fluid pan base, a high end padded bag, mounting hardware, bubble levels, monitor/accessory mounting ports, and ballast bag. Thanks to the included fluid pan base, The Aviator works great with any photo or video tripod rated to support 17lbs or more.

Aviator A1 Travel Jib Mag Aloy Aluminum Kit - 24" Long - Extends to 6' Review

I am clearly unhappy with the product I received!

First : I ordered the Jib from ADORAMA CAMERA, it was supposed to be brand new, however when I received it I discovered the Jib had already been used and not just once. The knob's screw of the jib was making an horrible noise that caught up my attention so I checked about it and I saw that it marked the jib with white marks of use that shows it has been over used and probably over-tight. There were multiple scratches on the jib in different places and in a particular place I saw even some kind of black paint like to cover the scratches . The leglocks showed some used marks as well, and also a deformed shape for one. It is clearly unacceptable to receive this kind of product that has surely been rented or tested multiple times.

Second: Before even discovering about the used state of the product, I had to pay 119 euros (about 160 USD) of Taxes, customs, insurance upon delivery to UPS (delivery in Europe). These were additional to the 454 euros (About 600 USD) I had to pay for the Jib and its shipping to Adorama! ( really high shipping price without a cheaper option...)
There were nothing explained about these taxes, insurance before purchasing and shipping the Jib!
Normally Amazon sellers are used to that and don't declare full value of products or explain if they take an insurance or if you should expect huge taxes !!! So be Aware of that before buying this jib from ADORAMA CAMERA...

Third: I sent several complains to ADORAMA CAMERA, requesting from them to act accordingly in response for their mistake, so either a replacement of the Jib by a real NEW one with full reimbursement of taxes to make sure I pay only taxes once.
if replacement was impossible, a full refund of the Jib + Shipping cost + taxes/insurance...
They took more than 4 days to send me a kind of automatic response telling me that taxes were my concern (country-wise), and that they were okay for a return and refund (excluding taxes) process but I had to tell them the price for shipping for validation first and check about UPS where I live...

ABSOLUTELY UNACCEPTABLE, I didn't receive any consideration for their mistake, I didn't saw any real professional apologies, and I could forget about my 119 euros of taxes even if I was to return the Jib... and Finally they asked me to "work for them" by saving costs in checking shipping prices and find a UPS branch...

Fortunately Amazon is a great platform that back up the buyers with an excellent customer service.

To conclude I think my problem was not the Aviator travel Jib itself but the seller that made a mistake. I do think this jib is really an amazing product from Aviator Camera Gear, I was unlucky and so I would advise to not buy it from ADORAMA CAMERA !

Most of the consumer Reviews tell that the "Aviator A1 Travel Jib Mag Aloy Aluminum Kit - 24" Long - Extends to 6'" are high quality item. You can read each testimony from consumers to find out cons and pros from Aviator A1 Travel Jib Mag Aloy Aluminum Kit - 24" Long - Extends to 6' ...

EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS

You looking to find the "EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS" Good news! You can purchase EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS with secure price and compare to view update price on this product. And deals on this product is available only for limited time.

Price: $169.00 $147.99   

Product Feature

• Brand Name: Canon Cameras Mfg#: 013803079371
• Shipping Weight: 1.25 lbs
• Please refer to SKU# PRA4043883 when you inquire.
• This product may be prohibited inbound shipment to your destination.
• Residents of CA, DC, MA, MD, NJ, NY - STUN GUNS, AMMO/MAGAZINES, AIR/BB GUNS and RIFLES are prohibited shipping to your state. Also note that picture may wrongfully represent. Please read title and description thoroughly.

Product Description

Canon Zoom Telephoto EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS.

EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS Review

We had purchased a quantaray lens of the same focal length and zoom rating as this one. It worked ok on a tripod but was almost impossible to hold still with maximum zoom. This lens has stabilization built in and works great at maximum zoom.

Most of the consumer Reviews tell that the "EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS" are high quality item. You can read each testimony from consumers to find out cons and pros from EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS ...

Canon SM-V1 5.1 Channel Surround Microphone for S and M Series Camcorders

You looking to find the "Canon SM-V1 5.1 Channel Surround Microphone for S and M Series Camcorders" Good news! You can purchase Canon SM-V1 5.1 Channel Surround Microphone for S and M Series Camcorders with secure price and compare to view update price on this product. And deals on this product is available only for limited time.

Price: $179.00    

Product Description

Surround Microphone allows you to capture lifelike sound from all directions for Canon Vixia HFM30, M31, M300, S20, S21, S200

Canon SM-V1 5.1 Channel Surround Microphone for S and M Series Camcorders Review

I'm very impressed by the quality of sound that I get in my HD videos. this mic is being used on a Canon HF-S200 and its a great combo to work with.

my only awakening was when I was trying to edit the video on the computer... be cautious that if your computer has trouble or is slow to process HD video, it will be that much worse when you add extra sound channels to track/edit/process. also, surround sound is still new to home movies, so finding an editing software that keeps the channels intact is hard to find also. even some expensive software packages are smashing the 5 channels to stereo (2ch). I'm still looking for the best way to handle the extra audio data... but I wouldn't trade it for anything.

let me leave you with this thought... when it comes to birthdays, imagine watching you child's birthday in surround sound and being able to identify voices and know where everyone was in the room... even if you couldn't see them on the screen at that time... it's cool.

Most of the consumer Reviews tell that the "Canon SM-V1 5.1 Channel Surround Microphone for S and M Series Camcorders" are high quality item. You can read each testimony from consumers to find out cons and pros from Canon SM-V1 5.1 Channel Surround Microphone for S and M Series Camcorders ...