This question is ONLY for those who ALSO considered the Olympus VN-702PC before settling on the Sony ICD PX-312. Please refrain from answering if the Olympus VN-702PC played no role in your decision-making. Why did you choose the Sony PX312 over the...
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I'll be able to do a direct comparison soon, as I've got a PX312 coming in, after purchasing the VN-302PC. The specs and features are very nearly clones of each other, but I've found that the Olympus lacks some rather basic abilities that the Sony covers, such as a means of moving files between the 5 folders for organization. Also, the files recorded on the internal memory can't be moved over to the external memory card through the recorder; though it's easy enough to do when connected to a PC. It shows up as two separate drives on the PC, and the files remain uniquely named whether recorded on internal or external memory, so it's a simple matter to just copy them over. (If they reused file numbers on int vs ext memory then there would be an added complication of renaming before copying). I'd rather that the file names included the timestamp, like some other recorders do, but neither of these do that. Record quality of the Olympus is fine, so if the Sony does just as well, the Sony has more comprehensive features. The file erase process is better on the Sony as well, because it plays back the recording you're about to erase for confirmation before recording. With the Olympus you have to stop the playback on the target file first and be careful that it didn't advance to the next file, and watch the screen for the sequence of prompts to follow through with the delete process. I think the Sony method for deleting is better because it can be initiated while the target file is playing, and the playback of the recording as confirmation has less potential for inadvertently deleting the wrong recording. I believe the Sony also retains the time for at least a minute during battery changes, while the Olympus loses an hour or two and needs to be reset. It's not very significant since the batteries last so long, but so far, all the pros have been on the Sony side. When I get the Sony in hand I'll see if it actually performs as well as the Olympus
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Sorry, there is no comparisons here. The SONY is a "pocket" camera" and the Olympus is (overall) much bigger and will not fit in a pocket. There are several main differences. First, the Olympus is 40X optical vs the Sony 20X optical. With that much zoom power, you need a camera you can hold on to. The Sony offers little in this area. On the flip size, the xtra wide angle of the Olympus can't be beat. Second, (and this is my preference) I like using standard (rechargeable-Nimh) double AA batteries for the Olympus, vs. a custom battery for the Sony. While I have taken over 20,000 pictures with my SP-820, I have mastered only 30% of the features; and try to learn new ones when I can. My Son likes Sony Camera's for their size, but he mostly shoots on auto modes and rarely uses any of its features.. While there is a "significant" difference in megapixels (Sony 18 megapixels vs Olympus 14 megapixels) this could make a difference in prints larger than 11" x 17" (and you would need a really large printer.) I have such a large printer, and I am always impressed with the quality of the prints from my Olympus. You maybe wondering, what photo programs I use. Generally Picasa, Photo shop (for digital manipulation), Corel Photo (quick and easy) are my three favorites. The decision you must make - do you want a POCKET point and shoot camera or one that will really take pictures you want. My only failure to date is I have been unable to "shoot" the International space station as it zips by. I must tell you that until you become accustom to the 40X zoom, a good light weigh quality tripod (or mono-pod) may be required.
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Brian, I think you misinterpreted my comment about the Canon XSi. I didn't have any problem with the camera itself, I said that Canon's kit lens is no match to Olympus kit lens/s and that I would need a lot of money to replace canon's with prime lens/s that match Oly's quality and focal range not mention the weight. I don't believe in investing in expensive lenses while using mid-range DSLR body. The cost of lens/s should be inline with the cost of the body something which I find Olympus doing better by providing inexpensive, good quality lenses even at their standard level.
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I'm a Nikon girl, but the Olympus Pen E-PL3 has quickly become my favorite camera. In fact, I just went on a quick trip to Paris and this was the camera I brought and came home with the same quality of shots that I would have gotten with my (much heavier) Nikon equipment. I also have to say - it's SO MUCH FUN!!! Scott Bourne named it his 2011 camera of the year - take a look at his site and search for the E_PL3, he really has a thorough review and follow-ups.
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I bought the Xsi and then took it back and got the D90. All I can say is that, although I liked the Xsi, i am super happy with my decision to get the D90. I can't think of a better balance of quality and price. I shot my first wedding this weekend and the pictures were phenomenal. Good luck.
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Charity, I have no real reason to criticize the Panasonic, but I have purchase 4-5 different lenses for my OMD EM-5 and have tried the Panasonic versions. I have always reverted back to the Olympus versions of the lens because of the different "color" casts I get from the Panasonic versions. Seems that the Olympus versions are slightly sharper and the color renditions are much more "spot on" when used on an Olympus Camera. I am assuming that manufacturers work to match their lens coatings to the color adjustment algorythyms in their processors and vice versa. I would opt for the Olympus lens for the Olympus EM-10. That of course is a personal preference based upon personal experience. Charity, I have no real reason to criticize the Panasonic, but I have purchase 4-5 different lenses for my OMD EM-5 and have tried the Panasonic versions. I have always reverted back to the Olympus versions of the lens because of the different "color" casts I get from the Panasonic versions. Seems that the Olympus versions are slightly sharper and the color renditions are much more "spot on" when used on an Olympus Camera. I am assuming that manufacturers work to match their lens coatings to the color adjustment algorythyms in their processors and vice versa. I would opt... » Read More Charity, I have no real reason to criticize the Panasonic, but I have purchase 4-5 different lenses for my OMD EM-5 and have tried the Panasonic versions. I have always reverted back to the Olympus versions of the lens because of the different "color" casts I get from the Panasonic versions. Seems that the Olympus versions are slightly sharper and the color renditions are much more "spot on" when used on an Olympus Camera. I am assuming that manufacturers work to match their lens coatings to the color adjustment algorythyms in their processors and vice versa. I would opt for the Olympus lens for the Olympus EM-10. That of course is a personal preference based upon personal experience. « Show Less
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i had the same dilemma and opted for the p7000. I'm waiting for mine to arrive from amazon.
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I agree with Pishkado, the specs on this camera are everything I have been looking for and more. However, the P80 has not received rave reviews and this may be pushing the pixel-count envelope even more. I have had 3 DSLR's (Canon 10D, 20D, and 30D) and the IQ has been outstanding...but the cost of the bodies and lenses plus the "lug factor" is more than I want to endure now. The superzoom that has my eye right now is the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ28K and I almost pulled the trigger on it when I saw the P90 announcement. I will also wait for the reviews and if they are disappointing, the Lumix will be my choice. I agree with Pishkado, the specs on this camera are everything I have been looking for and more. However, the P80 has not received rave reviews and this may be pushing the pixel-count envelope even more. I have had 3 DSLR's (Canon 10D, 20D, and 30D) and the IQ has been outstanding...but the cost of the bodies and lenses plus the "lug factor" is more than I want to endure now. The superzoom that has my eye right now is the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ28K and I almost pulled the trigger on it when I saw the P90 announcement. I will also wait for the reviews and if they are disappointing,... » Read More I agree with Pishkado, the specs on this camera are everything I have been looking for and more. However, the P80 has not received rave reviews and this may be pushing the pixel-count envelope even more. I have had 3 DSLR's (Canon 10D, 20D, and 30D) and the IQ has been outstanding...but the cost of the bodies and lenses plus the "lug factor" is more than I want to endure now. The superzoom that has my eye right now is the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ28K and I almost pulled the trigger on it when I saw the P90 announcement. I will also wait for the reviews and if they are disappointing, the Lumix will be my choice. « Show Less
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I was just debating the SX20 vs SX30, so I was really glad to find this discussion. I assumed the 30 would be an improvement, but it sounds from this discussion and many customer reviews that 20 is a better choice for image quality.
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Hello Rosa,If you need a compact Digital recorder I feel you cannot go wrong with the Sony icd-sx1000. It is functional not only for school,business,music and anything you would have to record on the move. Once you get the feel of using it,and the many applications it can be used for I am pretty sure you will be satisfied.This model is a jump ahead, in many way's,then the sx-712,i.e,features.A little more of a learning curve,but WELL worth it .This has been my experience, I am sure you will be satisfied.Good luck!
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Outperforms the 70-300 VR in that is can zoom back to 28mm. That is why it is twice the price. It does not produce better images between 70 and 300mm. I would chose the 70-300 for the longest shots, and the 28-300 for shorter. Both lenses are as professional as the person using them, do not be impressed by reviewers waving wads of bills at you, because like a Violin, a Camera/lens is only as good as the user!
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I own both. Bought one of first 18-200s made in Japan to go with my first dslr: D50 that I got for a trip to the Bahamas. Have wonderful images I still enjoy. Now have lightweight D5000 and super D7000. Bought 18-140 for light weight to hike w/D5000. Use 28-200 w/D7000 otherwise. Both focus quickly, iq is similar. Both have VR but 200 has active mode for shooting while moving, which I love. So 140 wins on weight, price, while 200 adds focal length and versatile VR.
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Hello Mary: To begin with, the camera you have is a Point & Shoot model (P&S), or all-in-one type. These kind of cameras are convenient because you can take them anywhere - in a pocket, purse, or whatever. But they have tremendous image quality tradeoffs and they employ a very, very small sensor. They often wind up displaying more levels of image noise and other artifacts than more advanced models. The GX1 is a Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Model of camera. It employs a much larger sensor and this translates into much larger per pixel sizes. As a result, the GX1 displays much less noise and does very, very well at much higher ISO scenarios. Yet it is still a very light camera, and depending on the type of lens you put on it, it can also be very compact. Now, most people who have a small P&S camera and want to "move up" tend to initially be leery about getting a larger, more advanced model. But you shouldn't be. This GX1 (I have two of them because it is such a nice model) will net you pictures that can knock your socks off - it's that good. When you get one, you can just put your camera into Program or Automatic mode, which means the camera makes all the decisions for you. But as you gain more knowledge, the camera grows with you, and once you really know what you're doing (assuming you're an amateur), the GX1 will really open up your eyes to what it can do. I can't speak highly enough of it and I do lots of photo work in various scenarios. I currently use around 20 different advanced cameras, yet the GX1 is one of my favorite models. And lately, with the almost "give-away" prices, you'd be a fool not to get one. If you want to see some photo samples taken with the GX 1, you can just email me at: benherrmann@centurylink.net and I'll gladly send you some so you can see the rich color tonality and nice definition of photos that this camera can generate. Ben Herrmann Fuquay Varina, NC 27526
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Thanks! A lot of specific info.Yeah, I knew the NEX series can't handle the Maxxum lenses.I probably wouldn't be buying any more lenses cause that's why I want the Sony BODY, cause I already HAVE several Maxxum lenses. PLus I really like how they have the IS in the body, not the lens.I don't often shoot sports so that's not a problem to me.I did NOT know that Tamron was associated with Minolta/Sony. To be honest, the original reason I went with Maxxum was that I had trouble seeing well enough to manually focus (took me forever). So I'd probably let the camera do that, and just change the speed/opening.My daughter has a Canon 30D but BOY is that a heavy body!Well, thanks again. I'll prob be buying the A33 body next month. Thanks! A lot of specific info.Yeah, I knew the NEX series can't handle the Maxxum lenses.I probably wouldn't be buying any more lenses cause that's why I want the Sony BODY, cause I already HAVE several Maxxum lenses. PLus I really like how they have the IS in the body, not the lens.I don't often shoot sports so that's not a problem to me.I did NOT know that Tamron was associated with Minolta/Sony. To be honest, the original reason I went with Maxxum was that I had trouble seeing well enough to manually focus (took me forever). So I'd... » Read More Thanks! A lot of specific info.Yeah, I knew the NEX series can't handle the Maxxum lenses.I probably wouldn't be buying any more lenses cause that's why I want the Sony BODY, cause I already HAVE several Maxxum lenses. PLus I really like how they have the IS in the body, not the lens.I don't often shoot sports so that's not a problem to me.I did NOT know that Tamron was associated with Minolta/Sony. To be honest, the original reason I went with Maxxum was that I had trouble seeing well enough to manually focus (took me forever). So I'd probably let the camera do that, and just change the speed/opening.My daughter has a Canon 30D but BOY is that a heavy body!Well, thanks again. I'll prob be buying the A33 body next month. « Show Less
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I've recently purchased a Sony A6000. I've added, in this order, the 16mm-70mm zoom, and the 12mm, 32mm Touit lenses. The 16mm-70mm impressed me so much that I decided that the Touit prime lenses would probably offer even better picture quality. I can only say that I have not been disappointed. I do find that the 12mm and the 32mm do sometimes "hunt" a little on focusing. I understand that they do not take full advantage of the Sony A6000's focusing technology. There have been some long term promises that firmware upgrades would be coming, but from what I understand Zeiss has not come up with any. The 16mm-70mm does not "hunt" on focusing nearly as much. From the many e-mount reviews I have read there are of course less expensive options by sticking with Sony brand, or Sigma brand lenses. I suppose it all depends how deep your pocket is, and what kind of photography you are pursuing. All I can say that the pictures I've taken with the three Zeiss or Zeiss/Sony (16-70mm) have great contrast and sharpness. If the kit lens is satisfactory then of course stick with that. But, for me I probably would have just stuck with my Fujifilm X20 or new X30 as the standard lens on those cameras do a great job and offer decent speed and photo quality.
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I was looking at the Panasonic, and a couple others, as well. For what I was going to use it for, the Olympus won out. I've not been disappointed. This camera takes wonderful pictures, on land and underwater, and it's 'bulletproof'.
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After much research I choose the Canon SX700. Love the camera. I have Canon EOS equipment so a often lean towards Canon.