Manufacturer : GoPro Camera
Model : CHDHH-001
ASIN : B002VA56I8
Price : 299.99$
See Special Offers
79 of 79 people found the following review helpful:
Great HD Camera for Adventure Minded People
This review is from: GoPro HD Helmet HERO Camera (Electronics)
I have used this camera a couple of times since receiving it for Christmas. I have used both the strap mount for my vented bicycle helmet as well as the permanent stick on mount for my dual sport motorcycle helmet. In both cases, the mounts work as well as the camera. I still have the previous generation GoPro HERO in standard definition, but not in the wide field of view lens configuration like the current HD version. I like the wide field of view of this HD model. It is great at giving a very good view of both the trail as will as your handlebar movements while riding both my mountain bike or motorcycle. The quality of the video is fantastic. The files do get large, but that is to be expected with the high resolution of this camera. I have been using a 16GB SDHC card and have filed up about half of it on one battery charge. I would recommend a high speed card reader to improve the download times from the card. A 12 min video was nearly a gigabyte. The battery last I think longer than the previous standard definition camera which ran on AAA batteries. I think that I will buy an additional battery someday for long rides with lots of action. The only reason I have not given it a full 5 stars is the difficulty in reading the small status screen with all the various modes it has. The same issue I have with the standard definition HERO. The icons that tell you if you are in burst, still, timed, or video mode are very small across the top of the display. The numbers to tell you the number of pictures or videos taken are much larger. It is just difficult if you have the camera mounted on top of your helmet and you try and look in the mirror on your bike to see if the camera is on and what mode it is. You have to use the select button on the front to both turn the camera on and select the right mode. The shutter button is on top and is easy to operator even with gloves. It is not difficult to read the display if you are holding the camera in front of you, but much more difficult when mounted on top of your helmet. You can unclip the camera from the mount, but that can be difficult when it is on top of your helmet.
I am looking forward to the expansion port options being available, like the LCD screen to view the videos in the field. I am also thinking of investing in the chest strap mount so I can get different view over the handle bars as will as making it easier to see the small status display. Other than the small icons telling you which mode, this is a very nice camera that takes very high quality action videos. It is very small and light and easy to use when you have it in the right mode. I would highly recommend this camera to anyone wanting action videos of their bicycling, motorcycle, or skiing activities.
211 of 221 people found the following review helpful:
I really want to love this camera. **Updated
The pros:
Video is awesome, in all of the modes.
Stills are very good quality, the timelapse feature is fantastic.
It's waterproof.
The mounting options are (almost) limitless.
The cons:
It's awkward to set up. Menu is like something from 20 years ago.
Firmware issues have yet to be addressed by the manufacturer. This is inexcusable as the camera has been available for sale for nearly a year.
Audio is useless. They could have saved weight and cost by just not including a mic. The only instance where it even sort of works is when mounted right near a loudish sound you want to highlight, such as an engine.
There are too many instances where "Macgyvering" is required to get the desired result. The quick release mount rattles so you need to tape the base plate, the non waterproof back allows too much wind noise, so you need to tape over the openings, the shutter button rattles, so you need to tape over that. Moral of the story: BUY TAPE.
The support by the manufacturer is not quite adequate. I realize it's a small start up company, but for all the issues with the use of the camera and the handling/editing of the files, they really need to release some conclusive videos or articles to address these concerns.
People who might find this camera useful:
Auto racing enthusiasts
Mountain Bikers
Sailors
Hobbyist videographers looking for those unique shots
People who will likely be disappointed and frustrated by this camera:
Pretty much anyone who thinks they'll be using it as a camcorder.
People who aren't really tech savvy and/or have an older computer
People who don't like to tinker and engineer solutions to make it do what they want.
******UPDATE******* ******UPDATE******* ******UPDATE******* ******UPDATE******* ******UPDATE*******
As of September 7, 2010, Gopro released the new firm ware for the camera. It seems to have fixed most of the bugs/issues. It also provides the option for upside down mounting.
Pros: The camera has four modes - video (in several resolutions), still pictures, self-timer still pictures, and interval photos (pictures every few seconds). The lens gives a tremendously wide wild view which is nice for HD's 9:16. It will shoot 1080p, 960p 720p (at 30 and 60 frames per second), and 480 (at 60 frames per second) line resolutions. It uses standard SDHC memory cards and has an internal battery which recharges via a USB cable. The recorded audio is very good both inside and outside of the motor sports waterproof case that came with my kit. Video is relatively good, not as vivid as a dedicated camcorder but the resolution is good. My kit came with a variety of mounts and a suction cup mount for windows and car body use. The waterproof case comes with two backs, one that is watertight and one that is not for better audio when waterproof use isn't required. The kit comes with connectors for connecting the camera up to an HDTV monitor (component video) or a TV monitor (composite video). A neat feature in the menu is that you can flip both the video and still photos so you can shoot with the camera upside down without a problem.
Cons: The quick release mounts have a bit of wiggle to them. The back of the waterproof case can be difficult to lock closed. The menu system is a bit troublesome to use as there are only two buttons and three LCD characters to use. Once set you'll not have to go into the menu very often.
Future: There's a connector on the rear that GoPro plans on using for an external battery or a monitor. Neither are available at the time of this review but they are being worked on.
In use on the trail the mounts worked very well. I used the suction cup primarily to mount the camera to my windshield, bumper, side body panel, and side window. Across rugged rocky trails the camera held firm and the video came out very well. The simple interface was easy enough to use. One button to turn the camera on and select the mode and another to stop and start the recording.
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
GoPro HD HERO 960 Camera
Manufacturer : GoPro Camera
Model : CHD960-001
ASIN : B003YMN3O6
Price : 179.99$
See Special Offers
Product DescriptionDescription The HD HERO 960 features the same professional grade 960p, 720p and 480p (WVGA) video & 5MP timelapse photo modes, and incredible sound recording system as its big brother, the original HD HERO camera. Record up to 2.5 hours on a single charge and up to 9 hours total on a 32GB SD card (not included). Missing from the HD HERO 960 are 720p @ 60fps, 1080p video, and the HERO BUS expansion port in the rear of the camera that will let you take advantage of GoPros forthcoming BacPac accessories LCD screen & Battery Extension both important features for filmmaking hobbyists & professional videographers that are compatible with the original HD HERO camera. Features 1 HD HERO 960 camera 1 Rechargeable 1100 mAh Lithium-Ion Battery 1 Waterproof Quick-Release Housing (180 / 60m) 1 Curved, 3M Adhesive Mount 1 Flat, 3M Adhesive Mount 1 Helmet Front Mount 1 Headlamp-Style Head Strap 1 Quick-Release Buckle 1 USB Cable 1 Component Video Cable (HDTV) 1 Composite Video Cable + Audio Out Cable Manufacturer's Warranty: One Year
79 of 79 people found the following review helpful:
Great HD Camera for Adventure Minded People
The only reason I have not given it a full 5 stars is the difficulty in reading the small status screen with all the various modes it has. The same issue I have with the standard definition HERO. The icons that tell you if you are in burst, still, timed, or video mode are very small across the top of the display. The numbers to tell you the number of pictures or videos taken are much larger. It is just difficult if you have the camera mounted on top of your helmet and you try and look in the mirror on your bike to see if the camera is on and what mode it is. You have to use the select button on the front to both turn the camera on and select the right mode. The shutter button is on top and is easy to operator even with gloves. It is not difficult to read the display if you are holding the camera in front of you, but much more difficult when mounted on top of your helmet. You can unclip the camera from the mount, but that can be difficult when it is on top of your helmet.
I am looking forward to the expansion port options being available, like the LCD screen to view the videos in the field. I am also thinking of investing in the chest strap mount so I can get different view over the handle bars as will as making it easier to see the small status display. Other than the small icons telling you which mode, this is a very nice camera that takes very high quality action videos. It is very small and light and easy to use when you have it in the right mode. I would highly recommend this camera to anyone wanting action videos of their bicycling, motorcycle, or skiing activities.
211 of 221 people found the following review helpful:
I really want to love this camera. **Updated
The pros:
Video is awesome, in all of the modes.
Stills are very good quality, the timelapse feature is fantastic.
It's waterproof.
The mounting options are (almost) limitless.
The cons:
It's awkward to set up. Menu is like something from 20 years ago.
Firmware issues have yet to be addressed by the manufacturer. This is inexcusable as the camera has been available for sale for nearly a year.
Audio is useless. They could have saved weight and cost by just not including a mic. The only instance where it even sort of works is when mounted right near a loudish sound you want to highlight, such as an engine.
There are too many instances where "Macgyvering" is required to get the desired result. The quick release mount rattles so you need to tape the base plate, the non waterproof back allows too much wind noise, so you need to tape over the openings, the shutter button rattles, so you need to tape over that. Moral of the story: BUY TAPE.
The support by the manufacturer is not quite adequate. I realize it's a small start up company, but for all the issues with the use of the camera and the handling/editing of the files, they really need to release some conclusive videos or articles to address these concerns.
People who might find this camera useful:
Auto racing enthusiasts
Mountain Bikers
Sailors
Hobbyist videographers looking for those unique shots
People who will likely be disappointed and frustrated by this camera:
Pretty much anyone who thinks they'll be using it as a camcorder.
People who aren't really tech savvy and/or have an older computer
People who don't like to tinker and engineer solutions to make it do what they want.
******UPDATE******* ******UPDATE******* ******UPDATE******* ******UPDATE******* ******UPDATE*******
As of September 7, 2010, Gopro released the new firm ware for the camera. It seems to have fixed most of the bugs/issues. It also provides the option for upside down mounting.
Pros: The camera has four modes - video (in several resolutions), still pictures, self-timer still pictures, and interval photos (pictures every few seconds). The lens gives a tremendously wide wild view which is nice for HD's 9:16. It will shoot 1080p, 960p 720p (at 30 and 60 frames per second), and 480 (at 60 frames per second) line resolutions. It uses standard SDHC memory cards and has an internal battery which recharges via a USB cable. The recorded audio is very good both inside and outside of the motor sports waterproof case that came with my kit. Video is relatively good, not as vivid as a dedicated camcorder but the resolution is good. My kit came with a variety of mounts and a suction cup mount for windows and car body use. The waterproof case comes with two backs, one that is watertight and one that is not for better audio when waterproof use isn't required. The kit comes with connectors for connecting the camera up to an HDTV monitor (component video) or a TV monitor (composite video). A neat feature in the menu is that you can flip both the video and still photos so you can shoot with the camera upside down without a problem.
Cons: The quick release mounts have a bit of wiggle to them. The back of the waterproof case can be difficult to lock closed. The menu system is a bit troublesome to use as there are only two buttons and three LCD characters to use. Once set you'll not have to go into the menu very often.
Future: There's a connector on the rear that GoPro plans on using for an external battery or a monitor. Neither are available at the time of this review but they are being worked on.
In use on the trail the mounts worked very well. I used the suction cup primarily to mount the camera to my windshield, bumper, side body panel, and side window. Across rugged rocky trails the camera held firm and the video came out very well. The simple interface was easy enough to use. One button to turn the camera on and select the mode and another to stop and start the recording.
Monday, October 24, 2011
GoPro Handlebar Seatpost Mount for HERO Cameras
Manufacturer : GoPro Camera
Model : GRH30
ASIN : B0014F5WIA
Price : 19.99$
See Special Offers
Product DescriptionGoPro Camera Accessories. Features: Replacement wrist housing for Digital HERO 3
20 of 20 people found the following review helpful:
Works but could be more rugged.
This review is from: GoPro Handlebar Seatpost Mount for HERO Cameras (Electronics)
When using this to mount my GoPro camera, one of the sections broke due to a fatigue failure of the plastic. The problem is caused by the camera vibrating at the end of the bracket causing it to eventually break. I now need to replace the mount and the camera housing. Amazingly the camera still works after flying off my bike at 60 mph. One other problem is the screws that are inside the adjusting knob will sometimes not spin with the knob when trying to tighten the bracket. I solve this by carrying a small screwdriver with me when using the mount but it's one more thing I need to take with me. 11 of 11 people found the following review helpful:
needs a horizonal left-right swivel
This review is from: GoPro Handlebar Seatpost Mount for HERO Cameras (Electronics)
I've been using this mount on my handlebars, but due to the shape of my bars I cannot locate this mount where it doesn't point the camera at too much of an angle off to the sides of the road. The mount really needs a left-to-right swivel point to adjust for this. Otherwise a good mount, stable and easy to secure. 9 of 9 people found the following review helpful:
The long awaited gopro handlebar mount has arrived
This review is from: GoPro Handlebar Seatpost Mount for HERO Cameras (Electronics)
The product works as expected. What you get is the clamp that will fit most handlebars and seatposts and two extensions of different lengths. The only con is that it doesn't come with rubber strips that most bicycle accesories come with to help hold the clamp in place.
At first the clamp slipped on the bar no matter how tight I made it, adding a strip of rubber fixed that problem. While riding the camera seems to vibrate a lot but on reviewing the videos the images were as good as one would expect. I took videos while riding both on and off road and was pleased with the results.
Audio is horrible when using this product. The vibrations cause a constant buzzing that gets very irritating during playback. But this isn't a big issue as I think most people would dub their videos with either music or commentary anyway.
If you own a gopro helmet or motosport camera this is a handy and reccomended accessory.
If you only own the basic wriststrap gopro you'll need to buy the helmet/motosport housing to use this accessory.
Sunday, October 23, 2011
GoPro LCD Bacpac
Manufacturer : GoPro Camera
Model : ALCDB-001
ASIN : B004M187ZI
Price : 79.99$
Last Price : 71.95$(Discount 10.0512564070509%
See Special Offers
Product DescriptionTake your HD HERO to a new level with the GoPro LCD BacPac. Check your angles and situate your frames when you attach the LCD BacPac to your current HD HERO. The LCD screen will make better use of the HERO's still photo capabilities and let you check out the day's footage right from the camera. The LCD BacPac fits into the HD Hero's current housing, which means you can have your buddies view the screen to make sure you are shooting the gnar and not your nuts.
Product Features
- Compatibility: HD Hero
- Manufacturer Warranty: 1 year
36 of 36 people found the following review helpful:
No more shooting the sky, helmet, or ground for 2 hrs (unless you want to)
This review is from: GoPro LCD Bacpac (Electronics)
If you use a helmet cam, you know you are paying for a specialty item. When you buy accessories for a specialty item, you tend to pay more as well.
So, no strikes on the price. I knew what I was getting and the cost is fair.
The Key benefits
1. You CAN see what you are aiming it. Get the right shot, the first time.
2. It allows full text viewing of all your menu items instead of the cryptic lettering on the front
3. You can set the auto-off. It will go off after XX seconds and not use battery after.
4. You get a a bunch of housings, that if bought separately would be nearly the cost of the LCD.
Used it on a snowmobile ride recently where branches and other assorted issues cause the top helmet mount to be out of wack. Super easy to turn on the LCD, repoint the camera, and turn it off again. Worth its weight in gold for on-the-fly adjustments without having to pull the card or rig up some external viewer. Worth every cent if you do sports that leave the camera exposed or with the potential to not get the right framing.
Drawbacks:
1. Can be hard to see in overly bright days.
No strikes due to this for me. I can still see it well enough, it does it's job.
This review is from: GoPro LCD Bacpac (Electronics)
I found the LCD screen to be quite clear even though it is small. This BacPak does add about 1/2" of additional bulk to the camera, so if weight or size is an issue, then it can be easily removed and used with out. What I really like about it is that the menu system displays now on the BacPac LCD in real words instead of only those cryptic letters on the front LCD screen That is a big plus in my opinion!
As far as battery life, the screen can easily be shut off in order to conserve battery life.
I really do like the flexibility of now being able to view pictures and videos immediately instead of having to wait to access a computer. This can make a BIG difference between getting the shot you are looking for instead of a shot of the sky or ground!
As a final comment, make sure you install the new firmware BEFORE trying to use the BacPak. Instructions are easy to follow and are available on [...]
10 of 10 people found the following review helpful:
Not always needed, but very cool when it is
This review is from: GoPro LCD Bacpac (Electronics)
Most of the time I'm using my GoPro, I only use the LCD for setting up shots or shot angles, but I always use it when I'm handheld shooting. You know what you're framing and can quickly adjust to get some really cool perspectives. Unless I'm handheld shooting, I usually set it to turn off a minute after the last button press in case i forget to turn it off myself. You can also adjust the brightness if you need to. I wind up using it a bunch to review pictures and videos too. It has a speaker, so you can hear the audio track. For whatever reason, most of my friends dig the instant gratification of checking out something that just happened, and now we can do just that.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)