Celestron NexStar 5 SE Telescope

You looking to find the "Celestron NexStar 5 SE Telescope" Good news! You can purchase Celestron NexStar 5 SE Telescope with secure price and compare to view update price on this product. And deals on this product is available only for limited time.

Price: $599.00 Too low to display   

Product Feature

• 5-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope; StarBright XLT high transmission coatings come standard
• StarPointer finderscope to help with alignment and accurately locating objects
• Quick-release fork arm mount, optical tube, and accessory tray for no-tool setup
• SkyAlign allows you to align on any three bright celestial objects, making for a fast and easy alignment process
• Nearly 40,000-object database with 200 user-definable objects and expanded information on over 200 objects

Product Description

Astronomy made simple Let a NexStar SE help you find thousands of stars, planets, galaxies, and more at the touch of a button! In the tradition of Celestron's famous orange optical tubes, the NexStar SE Family combines the classic heritage of the original orange tube telescopes with state-of-the-art features including a fully computerized operating system, flash upgradeable hand control, superior coatings, and much more. With the NexStar SE, you are in the driver's seat. Simply choose an object from the menu and the telescope will find it for you. Using our patented NexStar technology, the SE scopes have the ability to locate nearly 40,000 objects. All you have to do is look through the eyepiece and enjoy the view! Don't know what object to choose? Let the intelligent NexStar SE give you a guided tour of the night sky! The ''Tour'' feature offers a customized list of the best objects in the sky to view for your exact time and location anywhere in the world! Not only can your NexStar SE find objects, but it can teach you about them as well. Information on the most popular objects can be viewed in the LCD screen of your hand control. Whether you are a seasoned astronomer looking for a portable scope with advanced features, or just starting your astronomy adventure and looking for an easy way to enjoy the night sky, a NexStar SE will help you take a closer look. The days of complicated telescope assembly and setup are over. NexStar SE telescopes can be set up in a matter of minutes with no tools required!   Celestron NexStar SE Key Features Computerized hand control with nearly 40,000 object database and motorized altazimuth mount. Quick release optical tube for easy no-tool setup. StarBright XLT enhances coatings for maximum light transmission and clarity. Flash-upgradeable hand control; update your telescope's operating software via the internet. Internal battery compartment to prevent cord wrap during use.

Celestron NexStar 5 SE Telescope Review

This is a very nice telescope. I have been using it the past week and have viewed the Moon, Venus, Jupiter. Overall the optics are excellent. But there are a few issues, which had I known earlier I may not have purchased this scope.

1. Celestron advertises that the scope can be used with 8 AA batteries. This is not completely true. The batteries drain very quickly and will probably not even last one viewing session (say 30 mins).

2. Without power the telescope cannot be moved along the azimuth (left-right direction). So you cannot use it at all.

So essentially if you want to take this telescope out of the city to some dark sky location you have to buy a powertank (or maybe run it off your car). I would have liked a design that allows me to use the goto feature when I want it but still be able to slew the telescope manually, without power.

Why do I still give it 3 stars. Well, Celestron tech support is very responsive (over e-mail). The telescope itself is excellent (optically). I have gotten very good views of planets. It has been a little too cloudy and light polluted (I live in a city) for me to try seeing nebulae.

Details:
The DC motors that slew the telescope are very sensitive to the voltage and current of the power supply. If you use the telescope for 20-30 minutes after that the batteries drain down and the scope becomes unusable (till you replace the batteries of course). Celestron tech support told me that they recommend using the battery only as an emergency back up!!! Strange that they don't mention on their website that batteries are only for "backup" and you have to run the telescope on wall socket, or a "power tank".

Most of the consumer Reviews tell that the "Celestron NexStar 5 SE Telescope" are high quality item. You can read each testimony from consumers to find out cons and pros from Celestron NexStar 5 SE Telescope ...

Sony HVR-Z7U HDV Professional Video Camcorder

You looking to find the "Sony HVR-Z7U HDV Professional Video Camcorder" Good news! You can purchase Sony HVR-Z7U HDV Professional Video Camcorder with secure price and compare to view update price on this product. And deals on this product is available only for limited time.

Price: $4,919.99 $4,919.89   

Product Feature

• Sony's first professional handheld HDV camcorder with an interchangeable lens system
• Comes with a 1/3-inch-type 3 ClearVid CMOS Sensor system
• Features a Carl Zeiss 12x optical zoom lens
• HDV, DVCAM and DV recording on a miniDV cassette tape; Switchable HD/SD recording and playback
• Includes a 3.2-inch XtraFine LCD viewfinder
• HDV, DVCAM and DV recording on a miniDV cassette tape , Switchable HD/SD recording and playback

Product Description

Introducing the Sony HVR-Z7U Professional Camcorder, an industry-leading HDV handheld camcorder that features 1/3-inch bayonet joint interchangeable lenses, native progressive recording, and solid-state memory recording. A streamlined nonlinear editing workflow can be achieved using the supplied Memory Recording Unit, which provides HDV/DVCAM/DV file recording on a widely available CompactFlash solid-state memory card. This groundbreaking new camcorder features 1080/24p/30p HDV native progressive recording modes and also includes an HDMI or HD/SD-SDI output. This next-generation system features the HVR-M35U Video Cassette Recorder,which has HD/SD-SDI output.

Sony HVR-Z7U HDV Professional Video Camcorder Review

Sony HVR-Z7U Review

For the last 3 years I have been using the first Sony HDV camera, the Z1U, with great results. We took it in over 21 countries for the filming of a documentary and it preformed just great. However my Z1U, as much as I loved it, was growing old, so I went for the next generation, the Z7U, that I just got a couple days ago.
The first thing to notice as I unpacked it is that is noticeably heavier. I knew that from the spec sheet, but I thought I wouldn't notice the 0.6 pound difference. Anyway, the newness of the camera and the fact that is a lot shorter than its predecessor got me excited enough to get over it.
I also noticed and liked the new frontal design where the far reaching built in microphone of the Z1U is missing. This allows for bringing the camera much closer to the airplane or car window for instance, something I will value as a documentarian.

The Lens
The removable lens hood is easily removable by the push of a button, opposed to the screw system of the Z1U, a nice little touch, to be valued when you're strapped for time.
The main advantage that I went for on this camera is the removable lens. So first thing I did I removed the Vario Sonnar 12x lens that comes with it. The process was easy and intuitive. Upon my first field test, I got to like this lens a lot better than the built in Z1U. It seems that the new model achieves a much better shallow dept of field, the nirvana of any professional. I also really liked the "Digital Extender" function, built in this lens, that brings the subject 1.5x closer when you're zoomed in to the max. First I thought in might be a cheapo "blow up the pixels" trick, but while watching the footage on a 50inch HD monitor, I could not tell any quality drop while using the "Extender".
The focus ring is large and handy and must be pushed forward for "Auto focus". This is handy as you shoot, but it is guaranteed to move the shot if you're on a tripod shooting. I remember that the centrally located AF button of the Z1U could be moved without any jerk while shooting. The other disappointment is that there is no Autofocus push button, unless you go trough a convoluted programming procedure from the book.
The zoom is handy and smooth, and what I liked the most is that the servo zoom is a lot smoother than the older one. More than that, the servo zoom on the handle bar can be programmed to various speeds and once it reaches the upper or lower limit it will ease to a stop. Totally cool and professional.
The iris is located as third ring on the lens. I liked that too, and there is an Auto Iris button, but I like doing my own exposure.

The Camera
There are 3 ND filters as opposed to two and they work like a charm. I was able to shoot a sunset reflection on the water without closing the iris at all or being overexposed...
There are 3 gain levels and they are programmable as a new feature. I dindt change the DB levels but I used them all and could not see any image graining even on the "H" setting. I wish that was the case with the Z1U. So, yes, the low light performance of the new Z7U is net better, a Godsend for a documentarian that can't always control the lighting.
The white balance seems to be the same, not much to do there, same with the menus, and status check. The picture profile has a number of sophistication's such as "black gain" and color depth that were a bit above my comprehension without further reading.

The display and the outputs

The first major disappointment was the smaller LCD screen. More than that the colors on it were pale and while is it worked well in the sun, it was still simply too small. I got in trouble a lot in the past by not seeing where the focus was, so I was hoping on a larger display. Sony says that is superior since it has more pixels, but I'd preferred it bigger.
The VCR functions are the same, and the HDV tape is in the back facing the cameraman, not upwards. This is great if you're changing tapes in the rain or a sandstorm like it happened once while I was in Egypt.
The most valuable new output is the HDMI of course. I connected it directly to my plasma TV and it looks just great. I also liked the full size firewire connector.
The new Sony Compact Flash recorder unit is small and it fits in the back, over the battery compartment so you'll need to remove it first if you want to change the battery. That is OK I guess. The unit is small and luckily it takes the wide available CF card. Thank you Sony for not requiring us to buy your overpriced Sony Stick and other non-compatible "Sony Only" kind of cards. And thank you for having a dual kind of output storage. I am a "tape" faithful for storage and backup purposes, but it is nice to have the CF option. I have not tried it yet.
The biggest disappointment happened when I tried to playback on the new camera tapes recorded by the old Z1U. As soon as I put them in, the Z7U ejected them out. They were recorded in the "1080I 60FPS" a format fully compatible with the Z7U. This is highly troublesome since I have hundreds of tapes filmed on 5 continents that I might have to re-digitize one day should my hard disks crash. What am I to do, buy an $3000 VTR?

Sound
The included microphone is nice and sensitive, but I rarely record more than the ambient sound on the built in mic. There are 2 XLR inputs, nothing new there. I like that the mic is easily detachable and can save space while packing the camera. Also with an XLR extension cord it can be used for interviews on a table mount if you're lacking a lapel microphone... This couldn't be done with the old model.

The camera also has the capability to take still pics even while shooting. It has an SD Ram slot and a button can be assigned for picture taking. I never cared much for this feature since you can extract just as good pictures from the HD Video files.

Conclusion
The new HVR-Z7U is a pretty good piece of equipment for the $6000 USD price tag. Despite a couple of shortcomings I don't regret getting it. I really hope Sony will come up with longer lens soon that would make the main new feature "interchangeable lens" so much more valuable. So far Sony offers just some one wide lens for this unit. That's disappointing, great cinema and nature shots require long lens and none are available specifically for this camera. Sony offers some options that require adapters and reduced functionality for use of their still camera lenses with the Z7U, but I am skeptical about using such non specific products.

Mitch Anderson

Mitch Anderson is the producer of the film "The World Without US" . This feature-length documentary debates the implications and consequences of US military involvement in the world today.
The World Without US - With Niall Ferguson

Most of the consumer Reviews tell that the "Sony HVR-Z7U HDV Professional Video Camcorder" are high quality item. You can read each testimony from consumers to find out cons and pros from Sony HVR-Z7U HDV Professional Video Camcorder ...

Lowrance HDS-7 GEN2 Plotter/Sounder, with 6.4-inch LCD, Insight USA Cartography, LSS-2 StructureScan, and Two Transducers.

You looking to find the "Lowrance HDS-7 GEN2 Plotter/Sounder, with 6.4-inch LCD, Insight USA Cartography, LSS-2 StructureScan, and Two Transducers." Good news! You can purchase Lowrance HDS-7 GEN2 Plotter/Sounder, with 6.4-inch LCD, Insight USA Cartography, LSS-2 StructureScan, and Two Transducers. with secure price and compare to view update price on this product. And deals on this product is available only for limited time.

Price: $1,178.31 Too low to display   

Product Feature

• Brilliant 6.4-inch color SolarMax LCD
• Combination Chart Plotter/Depth Sounder
• Insight USA (Offshore & Inland) Cartography
• 83/200KHz transom mount transducer included
• Includes LSS-2 StructureScan Module with transducer

Product Description

Lowrance HDS-7 GEN2 Plotter/Sounder, with 6.4-inch LCD, Insight USA Cartography, LSS-2 StructureScan Module, and two transom mount transducers. The new, Generation 2 series of multi-function displays are a revolutionary step forward in fishfinding and navigation-electronics innovation. A new easier-to-use operating system simplifies access to frequently used (and more advanced) features, to enhance your boating pleasure and fishing success. For building an onboard system, HDS provides a truly advanced definition in multi-tasking compatibilities. Its exclusive, high-resolution 6.4-inch 16-bit color SolarMAX PLUS display with adjustable backlighting makes it a viewing wonder, day or night. To precisely find your way, a new high-sensitivity 16-channel GPS+WAAS antenna is built-in. The plotter comes pre-loaded with Insight USA (Inland & offshore) Cartography, which gives life-like representations not only of the topography of the land, but of the underwater structure as well. Plus, HDS units are now fully compatible with all Navionics chart cards � � Platinum+, Platinum, Platinum HotMaps � with satellite imagery, aerial photos, and 3D views. A Broadband sounder is standard on all HDS fishfinder models, allowing you to mark and display everything underwater at higher speeds and at greater depths. Included is an 83/200KHz transducer, ideal for inland water applications. Also included is the High Definition StructureScan Sounder Module, which provides highly detailed images of fish and bottom structure, and a 455KHz transducer. The HDS GEN2 is a true network system, allowing you to add multiple displays, radar, and satellite weather receivers. The package includes the HDS-7, LSS-2, 83/200KHz & 455KHz transducers, installation hardware, and owner's manual, and is covered by a two year parts and labor warranty. Unit dimensions: 8.8-inchW x 6.4-inchH x 3.5-inchD; Wt: 3.1 lbs. LSS-2 Dimensions: 8.2-inchW x 2.3-inchH x 7.4-inchD; Wt: 1.82 lbs.

Lowrance HDS-7 GEN2 Plotter/Sounder, with 6.4-inch LCD, Insight USA Cartography, LSS-2 StructureScan, and Two Transducers. Review

Bought online through GPS Store. Showed up as promised. Had the 7" HDS Gen 2 with Structure Scan professionally installed at the local boat repair store to replace my 10 year old (still functioning) 5" black & white Lowrance mapping unit / fish finder. Didn't seem too complicated but, given the price of the bundle, wanted it to be done perfectly. HD picture is stunning. Unit fairly instinctive to use after giving the manual a once over and after 1/2 hour or so of practice. With the 7" screen, the split view is big enought to really see both the sonar and the mapping unit simultaneously. That's something my old 5" could never do. The mapping unit is easy to read without my reading glasses, a big deal for this +50 angler. The structure scan delivers on the promise to show even the details of submerged branches. I used it to scan the 20' deep crappie holes in the hometown lake. Will be less useful for fishing local bays. Still, very sexy. Verdict? Next to my Yamaha outboard, the best thing I ever strapped onto my bay boat.

Most of the consumer Reviews tell that the "Lowrance HDS-7 GEN2 Plotter/Sounder, with 6.4-inch LCD, Insight USA Cartography, LSS-2 StructureScan, and Two Transducers." are high quality item. You can read each testimony from consumers to find out cons and pros from Lowrance HDS-7 GEN2 Plotter/Sounder, with 6.4-inch LCD, Insight USA Cartography, LSS-2 StructureScan, and Two Transducers. ...

Canon EOS Rebel T4i 18.0 MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II Zoom Lens + 11pc Bundle 32GB Deluxe Accessory Kit

You looking to find the "Canon EOS Rebel T4i 18.0 MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II Zoom Lens + 11pc Bundle 32GB Deluxe Accessory Kit" Good news! You can purchase Canon EOS Rebel T4i 18.0 MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II Zoom Lens + 11pc Bundle 32GB Deluxe Accessory Kit with secure price and compare to view update price on this product. And deals on this product is available only for limited time.

Price: $819.95 $819.00   

Product Feature

• This Kit includes 12 items all with USA Warranty and manufacturer's supplied accessories
• Canon EOS REBEL T4i 18.0 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 3-inch Touchscreen and Full HD Movie Mode (Body) - Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II SLR Zoom Lens -
• 32 Gigabyte SDHC Secure Digital Memory Card - Secure Digital USB Card Reader - Universal Memory Card Wallet - Pack of LCD Screen Protectors
• Additional LP-E8 Rechargeable Lithium-ion Replacement Battery Pack - Well Protective SLR Camera Gadget Bag w/Pockets & Strap
• Full Size 59" Tripod W/Case - Focus DVD Guide to Digital SLR Cameras - Focus Digital Grey Card Set - Focus 5pc Deluxe Lens Care & Cleaning Kit - HDMI cable for HDTV connection - BONUS!! Free 25 Quality Prints

Product Description

The new Rebel T4i delivers phenomenal image quality, high performance, and fast, intuitive operation. This EOS Rebel amps up the speed with the powerful DIGIC 5 Image Processor that helps make high-speed continuous shooting of up to 5.0 fps possible-great for capturing fast action. An 18.0 Megapixel CMOS sensor ensures that every image is shot in superb, high resolution; and an extended ISO range of 100-12800 gives photographers the opportunities to take the Rebel T4i into more shooting situations than ever before. A 9-point all cross-type AF system (including a high-precision dual cross f/2.8 center point) delivers improved autofocus performance, and a new Hybrid CMOS AF System increases autofocus speed when shooting photos and video in Live View. Movie Servo AF provides continuous focus of moving subjects. A built-in stereo microphone and manual audio level adjustment.Features a Vari-angle Touch Screen 3.0-inch Clear View LCD monitor II, which allows fast and intuitive camera operation. The Rebel T4i is an incredibly versatile tool for creating the images and videos you envision.
Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II SLR Lens: a new kit lens that provides excellent performance. A lightweight construction makes it easy to carry, and Canon's acclaimed optical Image Stabilization also minimises the risk of blur, allowing photographers to use shutter speeds 4 stops slower while still maintaining a blur-free shot. The EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II succeeds the existing EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS in Canon's lens line-up.
++PLUS++ 32GB Deluxe Accessory Kit: 32 Gigabyte SDHC Secure Digital Memory Card - SD USB Card Reader - Memory Card Wallet - LCD Screen Protectors - Spare LP-E8 Rechargeable Lithium-ion Replacement Battery - SLR Camera Gadget Bag - Focus Lens Care & Cleaning Kit - Full Size 59" Tripod W/Case - Focus DVD Guide to Digital SLR Cameras - Focus Digital Grey Card Set - HDMI cable for HDTV connection - BONUS!! Free 25 Quality Prints.

Canon EOS Rebel T4i 18.0 MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II Zoom Lens + 11pc Bundle 32GB Deluxe Accessory Kit Review

This is the best camera system i have owned. It is easy to use for beginners and advanced photographers alike. all the belss and whistles are at your fingertips. The package came with all of the add-ons as well, carrying case, extra battery, charging system, etc.

Most of the consumer Reviews tell that the "Canon EOS Rebel T4i 18.0 MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II Zoom Lens + 11pc Bundle 32GB Deluxe Accessory Kit" are high quality item. You can read each testimony from consumers to find out cons and pros from Canon EOS Rebel T4i 18.0 MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II Zoom Lens + 11pc Bundle 32GB Deluxe Accessory Kit ...