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The War Tapes Movie Streaming
Posted on July 22nd, 2010 No comments
The War Tapes Movie Streaming. Movie Title: The War Tapes
Average customer review:
The War Tapes is available for streaming or downloading.
`The War Tapes’ is a original documentary recorded by 3 soldiers in the Original Hampshire Army National Guard during their one year deployment in Iraq. Using cameras mounted on vehicle turrets, dashboards, and helmets along with utilizing night vision devices and thermal imagers, this compilation is assembled from over 800 hours of footage. Sergeants Steve Pink and Zack Brazzi, along with Specialist Michael Moriarty are the central characters that carry the cameras and assume the images.
Buy,Download, Or Stream The War Tapes! Click Here
Almost from the first day on the ground in country, remarkable and unsettling footage is shown from mortar attacks, ambushes, firefights, explosions, and injuries sustained from soldiers and civilians alike in Iraq. The video is graphic and intense and it leaves a serious impression about what soldiers have to endure in Iraq. You can bag a sense of the underlying tension and panic experienced by these soldiers as they record what they’ve seen and felt. Also shown are their attitudes and thoughts regarding why America is in Iraq and the consequences of the war.
In-between segments of the documentary, footage is shown with Michael Moriarty’s wife, Zack Bazzi’s mother, and Steve Pink’s girlfriend. They all achieve on a heroic face but you can sense the emotional turmoil of having loved ones so far away in such a risky environment. The families at home also allotment their mixed feelings about the American involvement in Iraq and the difficulties of being on their hold. Upon re-deploying benefit to the United States, there are physical and emotional changes evident in the returning soldiers and it is necessary in how this affects a person’s lifestyle and relationships.
Buy,Download, Or Stream The War Tapes! Click Here
`The War Tapes’ is a well produced documentary, in my thought, and delivers a conception provoking, significant, and sometimes disturbing peruse at many aspects dealing with the war in Iraq. To compliment the main program, there are 2 extra features on the DVD that are worth checking out. One is a collection of interviews lasting unbiased under 30 minutes and the second is 80 minutes of additional material covering several different and piquant topics.
John Burns, the Baghdad bureau chief for the Current York Times, calls this film “the single best document (book, film, or article) you could seek on the war in Iraq.” Director Deborah Scranton taught three soldiers from Modern Hampshire’s National Guard –Steve Pink, Mike Moriarty, and the Lebanese-American Zack Bazzi who is fluent in Arabic –how to employ a camera, then edited their 800 hours of war footage down to 97 minutes. The result is a first person visual myth of the war in Iraq. It’s probably about as conclude as you can glean to experiencing war vicariously– the chaos, bravado, feelings of helplessness, scare, vulgarity, boredom, and cynicism. Endless rows of charred vehicles in an equipment vehicle. Security escorts protecting convoys of Halliburton trucks carrying septic extinguish (“follow that shit truck!”) or cheese cake. Children everywhere. And yes, IEDs and daily mortar attacks lobbed into Camp Anaconda. The film documents the stories of the three soldiers from their deployment to their return to their families and post war symptoms, including several takes with their wives relieve home interspersed throughout the film. Parts of this film are very hard to spy.
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Buy Sony Bravia XBR KDL-40XBR7 40-Inch 1080p 120Hz LCD HDTV At Amazon!
Posted on July 22nd, 2010 No comments
Buy Sony Bravia XBR KDL-40XBR7 40-Inch 1080p 120Hz LCD HDTV At Amazon! List Price: $2,099.99
Amazon Price: $1,499.99
Sony Bravia XBR KDL-40XBR7 40-Inch 1080p 120Hz LCD HDTV Description:
Sony BRAVIA XBR7-Series LCD HDTVs leverage our HD expertise to deliver Full HD 1080p resolution and stunning picture performance. A BRAVIA Engine EX fully digital video processor helps reduce noise, sharpen image detail, and improve color accuracy, while Motionflow 120Hz technology enhances motion to deliver a smoother and clearer looking picture. An Advanced Contrast Enhancer (ACE) circuit dynamically adjusts contrast, producing deeper blacks in dark scenes while preserving shadow detail, and Live Color Creation technology works in concert with a special WCG-CCFL backlight to further refine colors and deliver a more realistic picture. In addition, DMeX functionality3 lets you expand your HDTV’s capabilities when you attach optional BRAVIA Link modules (sold separately).
- Amazon Sales Rank: #25586 in Consumer Electronics
- Color: Black
- Brand: Sony
- Model: KDL40XBR7
- Dimensions: 23.75″ h x 5.00″ w x 44.50″ l, 52.00 pounds
- Display size: 40
Features
- 16:9 Full HD 1080p Resolution Panel (1920×1080)
- Motionflow 120Hz technology delivers natural motion )
- BRAVIA Engine EX fully digital video processor
- Advanced Contrast Enhancer circuit (ACE)
- x.v.Color technology
Customer Reviews:
Amazing Picture for a great price.
This is my third LCD set. The first being a 32″ Sharp Aquos 720p (touted to be the best at the time of that purchase). The second being a 40″ Sony V2500 1080p unit. This third being the 40″ XBR7. Oh my have things changed over the years.In the comparison of apples to apples (V-series from 2 years back against the current XBR7), the difference in picture quality is amazing. The color contrast is better (without the need to be in ‘torch mode’), and the “blurring” is almost gone.
If I am comparing the unit to another, please assume it’s the Sony KDL-40V2500 unit unless otherwise specified.
Menus:
The XMB menu system is great. There is a bit of lag when switching from category to category though. It’s just in the animation. The function isn’t hindered. The adjustments (that make everyone’s heads spin) have some added comments to help you decide which setting is best. It’s a nice added feature, but I would still use the best tool to adjust the set: your eyes. Many home theater “elites” will criticize all of the added “picture enhancers” Sony has added. I would ignore their advice of “turn if all off” and simply adjust the set to what looks best to you. Of course, a simple calibration baseline does do wonders: Digital Video Essentials: HD Basics [Blu-ray]Source: DirecTV HR21 HD-DVR – Connected via HDMI to Receiver, then to TV
The HD content has a more crisp and clear look to it. The “MotionFlow” should be either set to Off or “Standard”, as the “High” setting is a bit dizzying. It gives a smooth “flowing” visual effect which makes content look great OR horrible (depends on your eyes and personal preference). Many movies (HBO HD, 1080i broadcast, I think) look fantastic. It’s almost as clear as having the actual BluRay. The SD content PQ has slightly improved, but nothing amazing.Source: Playstation 3 (60 gb Launch model) – Connected via HDMI to Denon Receiver “Pure Mode” (bypasses any receiver processing), then to TV
Stunning. That is the word that best describes the quality. The first thing I watched after setting up the TV was Batman: The Dark Knight. The detail in the dark scenes were quite impressive. Most LCDs will produce a very dark gray since it’s near impossible to reproduce black. This unit get’s VERY damn close in my opinion. Details can actually be seen in the dark scenes now (the V2500… couldn’t distinguish much). Film content (24p) is best viewed with MotionFlow OFF. With the feature on, it looks like the main subject(s) on the screen are slightly popping out from the rest of the scene. It’s an interesting look, but it’s not for me.When gaming, there is no motion blur (1080p and 720p) that I noticed. The V2500 had some blur issues. The colors are crisp and vibrant. Details can be seen even in the darkest of rooms. This is definitely a noteworthy contender if gaming is the main function of this TV.
Source: Lenovo T500 Notebook via HD15 – Directly connected to TV
Intel on-board graphics test… will test ATI Graphics at a later date
Everything looked fine. I was running the native resolution for the notebook’s screen (1600 by 1050, or something in that ballpark). The text was easy to read. I haven’t been able to do full resolution (1920×1080), but will try the next time I connect it.Overall, this is a great unit. There were very little gripes I had about the unit. It’s near flawless. Some say the XBR6 quality is the same. I unfortunately didn’t have the luxury of a XBR6 and XBR7 side by side for a true comparison. To save a few bucks, I’d recommend checking out the XBR6 also. The only difference that MIGHT exist is a 8bit (XBR6) versus 10bit (XBR7) panel… but Sony never indicates what the XBR6 actually has. Rumors have it that they both use 10bit panels and it’s just hidden in the XBR6 documentation so the XBR7 will have a larger arsenal to market with.
The television set I’ve been waiting for all my life…
I’ve held off on buying a 1080P set until I could get what I wanted, and not just get what was just within my generally limited price range. My spouse set the size limit at 40″ because of the room size (I would have pushed for a 46″ but in marriage you have to choose your battles…) When I’ve gone to Costco or Best Buy the Sony Bravia XBR series has always stood out. Since my television sets generally last me 15-20 years, I wanted the most up-to-date version of the best I could get.The color and definition of what I have seen on the set so far are wonderful. Razor-sharp imagery has always been important to me, both in my years as a film exhibitor and as a photographer. One of the first things I checked out on the new set is one of the “Planet Earth” Blu-Ray discs — dependably gorgeous and detailed. Next, a Blu-Ray disc of 1938 “The Adventures of Robin Hood”. The definition holds in the action scenes when men and horses are streaming across the screen, while the sense of dimensionality is frequently beyond what would have been technically possible with the best film printing and exhibition at the time the film was made. Then I looked at a standard definition disc of an early 1940s comedy (Criterion’s edition of “Heaven Can Wait”); the upscaled presentation on this television set is beautiful. I grew up on nitrate prints from the UCLA film archive; for the first time since then I feel like I can see film imagery with a comparable (or better) sharpness and luster. As great as this set will be for HBO High Definition broadcasts and Blu-Ray discs, this is also a cinephile’s dream television set for something like the new Fox release of Murneau and Borzage silent films due out next week.
I’m thrilled. This was worth the wait.
Awesome!
Everyone seem to start a review with ” i don’t usually write reviews” but honestly i don’t.
I am an IT guy and i love electronics. Music and tv are my passion and this is why i decided to write about this tv, because i care.
Now as far as the 40-xbr7
Looks: Wow the most gorgeous, slickest TV i have ever seen.
Sound: Great sound even though i am planning to get a high end surround system later on this year.
Picture quality: I am very happy with the deep levels of black on this set. I like the work that 120hz does with the 3 different types of settings it has ( even though you can’t chose a 120Hz ON or OFF option per say)I have ATT U-Verse which i absolutely despise and i think offers the worst quality of picture to day and i can’t wait to change it. Having that said, the xbr7 has a ten times better quality then the 37″ Visio that i have right next to it.
Overall positives: Great deep black levels, unbelievably warm colors, tons of options to adjust the quality of the picture, excellent gui etc etc.
Negatives: there is white “halo” on both top corners of the TV when changing channels and the screen is all black. This got me worried in the beginning and i hope it will not get worst in the future but for now it is just a minor detail. ( i don’t know if the warranty will cover it or not”
Would i recommend it to a friend?
Yes i would.
Would i recommend it to a family member?
Of course i would.Conclusion: Overall a great TV that does a very good job with regular channels and a superb job with HD channels. For the amount of $ that i purchased the TV it is well worth it. Ah and one more time: if you learn anything from this review besides the fact that this TV is just as good as it looks, Learn from my mistake and don’t get ATT U-verse because you will definitely regret it.
———
Update:
I have had the TV for few months now and it has surpassed my expectations. My primary objective was to find a tv that will do a good job at non HD channels and boy did i find one. I changed the Cable provider and now i have Cox. What can i say i still keep on smiling when i look at every channel wether it is HD or not because the quality is just superb.
Even the “Halos” “Clouds” they just disappeared and i have not seen them for over a month now. I would definitely give it a 5 star without any hesitation.
I love this TV and i would not hesitate to buy it again in a heartbeat and i am glad i stuck with Sony brand.From the Manufacturer
Feel like you’re part of the action with the Sony BRAVIA XBR7 Series LCD flat panel HDTVs. Take all of the great features of the XBR6 line and add BRAVIA Engine EX (40-inch) and BRAVIA Engine PRO (70-inch) fully digital video processors that render stunning images from any resolution, an RS-232C connection and upgraded industrial design. Again, optional speaker grilles are available in designer colors.The XBR7s feature Full HD 1080p resolution and Motionflow 120Hz technology, which enhances motion to deliver a smoother and clearer looking picture. Enjoy exceptional ease-of-use with the Xross Media Bar user interface, integrated TV Guide Interactive Program Guide and BRAVIA Sync one-touch component control. You can even expand your HDTV’s capabilities with optional BRAVIA Link modules (sold separately). These HDTVs come with abundant connectivity options that allow you to connect to all of your content sources. And with the gorgeous piano gloss black finish with floating glass accents, it will be the sharpest wall in your home.
Last updated September 30, 2008
Key Features
- New: TV Guide IPG (Learn more)
- New: Enhanced (XMB) User Interface with Rich 3D Graphics (Learn more)
- New: DLNA Compliant (Learn more)
- New: Digital Media Port (Learn more)
- 16:9 Full HD 1080p Resolution Panel (1920 x 1080p) (Learn more)
- BRAVIA Engine EX fully digital video processor (Learn more)
- Advanced Contrast Enhancer circuit (ACE) (Learn more)
- 24p True Cinema capable (Learn more)
- Emmy-award winning Xross Media Bar user interface (Learn more)
- DMeX capable (Learn more)
- BRAVIA Sync capable (Learn more)
- S-Force Front Surround Voice Zoom (Learn more)
- Robust Connectivity with 4 HDMI inputs, 2 HD Component inputs, and a PC Input (Learn more)
- Piano Gloss Black with Onyx Speaker Grille
- Remote: RM-YD023
Which Bravia HDTV is Right for You?
- Comparison chart of features for all Sony Bravia HDTV Series
- What size TV should I get?
Learn More
Full HD 1080p
Full HD 1080p means our connections accept 1080p signals and the display will render that signal in Full HD 1080p. The flexibility of native 1920 x 1080 displays allows any high definition content to be viewed without the need to downconvert images to the native resolution of the display. Take full advantage of Blu-ray Disc players and PlayStation 3 systems that can deliver 1080p content.
(Found in S, V, W, Z, and XBR Series HDTVs)
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BRAVIA Engine Technology
The latest version of Sony’s respected BRAVIA Engine fully digital video processor uses a collection of unique SONY algorithms to significantly reduce noise and produce sharp, vibrant, life-like images.
- Dynamic Noise Reduction: Intelligently identifies and dramatically reduces noise in the signal according to the motion and brightness of each scene for clearer, crisper images.
- Detail Enhancement: Improved image enhancement algorithms render greater overall detail.
- Contrast Enhancement: Works with the Advanced Contrast Enhancer circuit to optimize the contrast for every scene to create better depth and reality.
BRAVIA Engine technology optimizes the color, contrast, detail and clarity of every scene for the exceptional performance that BRAVIA HDTVs are known for.
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- Enhance the blacks
- Match the color
- Smooth the motion
- Filter the Image
- Clean the image
- Widen the tone range
- DRC-MFv1 (SD-HD Creation)
- Digital Texture Enhancer
- Enhance the blacks
- Match the color
- Smooth the motion
- Filter the Image
- Clean the image
- Widen the tone range
- DRC HD-HD (SD-HD Creation)
- Digital Texture Enhancer
- Enhance the blacks
- Match the color
- Smooth the motion
- Filter the Image
- Clean the image
- Widen the tone range
Advanced Contrast Enhancer (ACE)
Part of the cinematic drama in film-making comes from details found in shadows and dark areas of the picture. Sony’s Advanced Contrast Enhancer (ACE)n uses real-time image processing to dynamically adjust backlight levels for improved contrast without masking details the filmmaker intended you to see. ACE delivers deep blacks in darker scenes, as well as fine details in shadows and other dark areas of the picture for a difference you can truly see.
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Motionflow 120Hz Technology
No Motion Flow
With Motion Flow
Motionflow 120Hz technology doubles the number of existingframes by calculating in real time and inserting 60 entirely new frames between the original 60 frames. It uses a special Sony-developed algorithm that detects specific objects, as well as the movement of the overall scene and intelligently applies the right amount of enhancement. There’s
more to the story.Unlike some other high frame rate technologies, Motionflow also includes Sony’s unique Image Blur Reduction algorithm, which reduces blur from the original source image captured by a camera before applying motion enhancement technology.
Judder is a visual artifact that shows up in video content that has been converted from film-based content. A visible jerking or stuttering effect can sometimes be seen during motion sequences on converted film-based content that may be noticeable on scenes that include panning.
There are many forms of high frame rate technology in the market today, but only Motionflow 120Hz technology uses special Sony algorithms designed to intelligently detect and apply the right amount of enhancement to reduce judder and deliver a smoother, sharper picture with more natural motion of the original film.
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24p True Cinema
Movies and many prime time TV programs are shot at 24 frames per second. This means that TVs operating at any refresh rate that is not an even multiple of 24 will have to do some interpolation to present the content. TVs operating at at 30Hz or 60Hz traditionally solved this via a method called “2:3 pulldown”. The television repeats the first film frame over the first two fields of video, and the second film frame over the next three fields of video (1, 1, 2, 2, 2), and continues to do this with the 3rd and 4th frames, the 5th and 6th framer (1,1,2,2,2 – 3,3,4,4,4 – 5,5,6,6,6), and so on until 24 frames are displayed over 60 refresh cycles. This discrepancy in the number of times frames are displayed can lead to a jerky motion in filmed material which some viewers notice for example, especially with scenes that pan.
120, on the other hand, is an even multiple of 24. Televisions with 24p capability, operating at 120Hz, can display an equal number of frames for every refresh cycle.
The benefit—You can watch movies in natural, cinematic motion, the way they are seen at the cinema. Every single frame of the movie can now be seen without using additional video processing that converts film-based images to video reproduction. Additionally, 24p True Cinema input capability can be used along with Motionflow™ 120Hz technology for outstanding fluid motion beyond what you would typically see at the cinema. Once you experience 24p video it will be hard to view video without it.
(Found in S, V, W, Z, and XBR Series HDTVs).
Sony’s Blu-ray disc players wisely take advantage of this by including 24p output capability.
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Xross Media Bar
Xross (pronounced Cross) is Sony’s Technical-Emmy award-winning graphic user interface for Sony WEGA and BRAVIA televisions and PS3 and PSX game systems. The interface features category icons spread horizontally across the screen that organize the viewing options (TV, Music, Internet, Tools, etc…). When a category icon is selected on the horizontal bar, a vertical bar appears showing the viewing options within that category. Using the directional pad on your remote, you can easily maneuver horizontally from category to category, then scroll vertically through individual viewing options to easily navigate through the wide range of programming available on today’s televisions.
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Rich Graphic On-Screen Control Interface
Delivering a fun user experience is what the new rich graphics are designed to do. Accessing video content and sharing digital photos with your family and friends on an HDTV is now fast, easy and fun. Colorful thumbnails cascade before your eyes allowing you to visually choose what you want to see. Viewing digital images through Sony’s photo viewer is now more organized and can be quickly accessed.
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x.v Color
RGB Color RangeElectronics B001GJADP6, Buy Sony Bravia XBR KDL-40XBR7 40-Inch 1080p 120Hz LCD HDTV At Amazon!, Electronics, Sony Bravia XBR KDL-40XBR7 40-Inch 1080p 120Hz LCD HDTVGarmin nuvi 1390/1390T 4.3-Inch Widescreen Bluetooth Portable GPS Navigator with Traffic Lowest Price!
Posted on July 22nd, 2010 No comments
Garmin nuvi 1390/1390T 4.3-Inch Widescreen Bluetooth Portable GPS Navigator with Traffic Lowest Price! List Price: $399.99
Amazon Price: $189.69
Garmin nuvi 1390/1390T 4.3-Inch Widescreen Bluetooth Portable GPS Navigator with Traffic Description:
The NUVI1390T 4.3″ Ultra Thin GPS Navigator features a widescreen ultra slim design (approximately 25% thinner than previous models), enhanced user interface, ecoRoute, public transit mode and text-to-speech. The n vi 1390T offers pedestrian navigation capability enabled through optional CityXplorer maps. CityXplorer maps are available for select tourist destinations in North America and Europe and can easily be downloaded directly to the n vi. The nuvi’s enhanced user interface features improved graphics and a new slide control for menu operation, while ecoRoute suggests fuel-efficient routes to save drivers money and fuel. Also, Garmin’s new public transit mode allows you to navigate using buses, tramway, metro and suburban rail systems. Steer clear of traffic with nuvi’s traffic receiver by receiving alerts about traffic delays and road construction that lie ahead on your route. Junction view – View realistic images of upcoming junctions where available Map data is provided by NAVTEQ Bluetooth wireless technology, enables hands-free calling with a compatible phone ecoRoute – Drivers can view suggestions for fuel-efficient navigation, conserving both money and fuel Speed limit indicator – unit displays speed limits for most major roads Public transit – Navigate using buses, tramway, metro and suburban rail systems with optional CityXplorer content. Download at garmin website. Where Am I? feature – Find closest hospitals, police stations, gas stations, nearest address, intersection and coordinates Bright 4.3 diagonal color display; 480 x 272 pixels; WQVGA TFT display with white backlight Trip computer records mileage, max speed, total time Built-in travel kit includes picture viewer, world clock, currency and measurement converters and calculator MicroSD memory card slot Offers 3-D mapping, or 2-D overhead view Dimensions – 4.8W x 2.9H x 0.6D; Weight – 5.7 ounces Built-in lithium-
- Amazon Sales Rank: #216 in Consumer Electronics
- Brand: Garmin
- Model: 010-00782-02
- Number of items: 1
- Dimensions: 2.90″ h x .60″ w x 4.80″ l, .30 pounds
- Display size: 4.3
Features
- Widescreen ultra-slim GPS design with 4.3-inch WQVGA touchscreen display; interface features improved graphics and a new slide control for menu operation
- Pre-loaded with City Navigtor NT maps for North America, including more than 6 million points of interest
- Bluetooth wireless technology enables hands-free calling with a compatible phone; included traffic receiver provides North America traffic information
- Public transit mode allows you to navigate using buses, tramway, metro, and suburban rail systems; Pedestrian navigation capability enabled through optional CityXplorer maps
- NOTE: Model number on the box is 1390T because the traffic receiver is included; however, the model number on the device itself is 1390 as the “T” in 1390T refers to the additional component
Customer Reviews:
great gps, some flaws
i read a bunch of reviews on different models before i ultimately chose the 1390t. when it came down to the wire it was a hard choice between the 765t and the 1390t. The main difference I would like to point out is the charger. the 765t uses a mount charger, while the 1390t uses a micro usb fed directly into the unit. some users like the fact they dont have to unhook the charger when dismounting the unit(765t). like i said personal preference. oh and also no mp3 playback, fm tuner or multipoint point destination. 765t has all those.real world test of features
user interface: so easy a caveman can do it. garmin definitely has the other brands beat when it comes to UI. i liked the feature set for price in the tomtom 940t, but the UI just looks so primitive. They need a major rehaul of that. the 1390t always gave precise directions without causing confusion. there was no lagging either. being able to update the ETA to total distance is a huge plus. almost always gave me the local speed limit. your speed turns red if you’re speeding.bluetooth: i was actually rather impressed with the bluetooth. it was easy to sync with my blackberry 8800(dinosaur phone i know). i had to speak a little louder than normal conversation. this is mostly because you’re talking to the unit from 1.5 feet away. if the mic was more sensitive it would pick up more background noise. call quality was good on the other end. my friend couldn’t hear the road in the background.
lane assist: i like the fact that it shows you all available lanes that you can take. it almost always did lane assist where available. junction view with photo realistic pictures never showed. i drove on the grand central, LIE, northern state, southern state, belt parkway, cross island. these are all major highways in the long island queens area. maybe it only does interstate highways. who knows. i was really disappointed when i didnt see the 3d simulation at all.
traffic alert: the ads are unobtrusive and don’t show up while you’re driving. traffic reporting was pretty accurate when it did have reception. i never tried any alternate traffic routes. the traffic map shows where the traffic begins and ends and your location.
new thinnest model of all time: don’t make this the deciding factor for you. although the unit is 25% thinner than most other garmins, it’s really not a big deal. the other garmins (200 and 700 series) were thin to begin with.
POI: for some reason when i looked for a mcdonalds or bk it would show everything but the closest location. i only used POIs 3-4 times.
random: i don’t know why other people were complaining about speaker volume. i put it on a 100% thinking that it was going have weak speakers. i assure you, def not the case. it was practically yelling at me at 100%.
cons: no fm tuner, no multipoint destinations. you can have a via point though. price is a bit high. i paid 280 including tax for the unit. i think $200 wouldve been a more reasonable price.
conclusion: if you wants all the bells and whistles go for this model or the 765t. if you just need a simple gps get a 200 series. theyre a lot cheaper. all in all great gps. 4.0/5.0. if you want a full list of features with pics check out [...]. theyre affiliated with amazon, so take that for what you will.
***edit** 2 months later: 3/5 instead of 4/5 for ratings.
1)I use this device on the road every day now. I’ve driven all over queens, manhattan, and Long Island. One thing I found incredibly annoying is how it kept taking me off a highway only to remerge with it 2 exits later. It certainly was not the faster route to be following the gps’ advice in these instances.2)Another major gripe I had was the constant recalculation. I would follow its directions and it would say recalculating. When making critical turns that are close by, this can get really annoying. I don’t know if this is a problem with my model or gpses in general or just garmin, but something needs to be fixed.
3) The suction keeps falling off the window. It may be because of the cold temperature. It recently dropped to the 40deg F. My friend uses a magellan (old non-widescreen 2-d version) on the same vehicle and her mount stays.
4)One thing I have to admit I absolutely love is lane assist. You really appreciate it when switching to different highways. It definitely is all it’s cracked out to be. However, The 3-D sign simulation(lane guidance) is just a marketing gimmick(at least I think so). Not worth paying the extra $$$. Lane assist is more practical and worthwhile.
I know this edit may have confused customers on future purchases, but READ OTHER REVIEWS to see if the problems I’ve had are common in all devices or just this one.
Great GPS! No complaints.
Just bought this GPS from Amazon and I’m having no problems with it at all. No sure why others have a problem with the speaker but it sounds fine to me. I bought this to replace my Nuvi 350 and it’s a major upgrade. The menus are much nicer and I like the Speed Limit display. I did have a little trouble with the bluetooth. After pairing my iPhone the “Phone” icon disappeared from my GPS. It didn’t seem to recognize my iPhone anymore. I went to the Garmin website, downloaded the 2.70 upgraded software for this unit (which has fixes for the speaker and bluetooth), did the pairing again, and now it works fine. I would definitely recommend this unit. Anyone who’s having problems should download the latest software for this GPS from the Garmin website.Absolutely love it!
I purchased this GPS recently. I had used an older Garmin for 2 weeks and I had liked it. I did not have time to do much research on this product but after reading a few reviews, I knew that Garmin is the manufacturer of choice for Aviation GPS(s). Once I knew that, I stpped researching and simply placed the order.I had to drive from NY to FL a week after placing the order and Amazon replied with an order confirmation email stating that I will be receiveing the GPS device in about 1 month from the time I had placed the order. Panic moment, sepecially as I had specified and payed for 2-day express delivery of the product.
My travel plans were all in the air from the moment I received the Amazon order confirmation email. I quickly sent an email to Amazon Customer Service (at 2-3AM), to ensure they have the item in stock and that they’ll ship ASAP. Amazon Customer Service reacted within minutes and was very very efficient in taking care of things. They even excusesed themselved for the automatic email I had received, which had the wrong date. I very much appreciate the Amazon Customer Service. In the past they have heped me just as promptly as they did with this order. Amazon is very much on top of everything!!! Efficient and fast and best!
I was able to use the GPS successfully from my very first attempt.
The first time I used it, I drove 1000 mi in 2 days. (It is totally fool proof! or as they call it in marketing “It’s very user friendly.”)
I also helped a lost trucker find his route with my GPS and I reached destination safely myself. Not one single wrong exit, Garmin GPS gives instructions well head, with sufficient time to react to the instruction at the speed you drive at. It indicates lane change, exits, well before you have to actually do it, thus giving you sufficient time to navigate the immediately surrounding traffic and follow the instructions in a very safe manner.I have been using the GPS for 2 months now, daily and I absolutely love it. I have used the GPS with a NEON car, which is known for it’s loud engine at high speeds. I drove the NEON at 80-90-110 mph and had the GPS volume at 80%. I could hear it loud and clear!
I have no idea what other reviewers are talking about, when they say that they cannot hear the GPS. If the person has a hearing problem and is driving a tractor, then it is possible that they could not hear the GPS voice feature, indeed. But I one could hear it very LOUD AND CLEAR. In the city I am using it at only 50% volume, with music on and it’s still very loud.
I like the size. The screen is large enough, yet not too heavy to have in the purse. You can charge it once every 2 days without always needing to have the charging cable with you.
It has a feature that enables you to set AVOIDANCES: for example Highway if you want to drive off the highway at all times.
It includes a calculator, a currency convertor, world clock, etc.
It allows you to zoom in / out and re-center the map by screen-touch, just like you can grab the google maps and move it along the computer screen. You can use your finger and move the map across the screen of the GPS.
It has an ecoRoute feature, which comes with an “eco challenge” feature that measures how smoothly you accelerate / decelerate and it rates you. The smoother you drive, the less fuel you use, and the higher the score you get is. Pretty cool, huh?!
After you have saved a few addresses already, it will mark them on the map with relevant icons – a dollar bill for a bank, a tumb tag for an address, a pump for a gass station, etc.
I had it out in the rain for a few moments and the equipment is very well built, nothing happened to it.
There are a few other features, which I haven’t got to use yet, but I’m sure it’s all useful and practical. I have been driving a lot recently and this GPS was money very well spent. I hope this helps! Happy shopping.
Amazon.com Product Description
Amazon.com Product DescriptionThe Garmin 1390T GPS navigator with Bluetooth and included Traffic Receiver features a widescreen, ultra-slim design (approximately 25% thinner than previous models), enhanced user interface, ecoRoute, public transit mode, and text-to-speech on all models. The nuvi 1300 series are the first nuvi devices to offer pedestrian navigation capability enabled through optional CityXplorer maps, which are available for select tourist destinations in North America and Europe and can easily be downloaded directly to the nuvi. The nuvi’s enhanced user interface features improved graphics and a new slide control for menu operation, while ecoRoute suggests fuel-efficient routes to save drivers money and fuel. Also, Garmin’s new public transit mode allows you to navigate using buses, tramway, metro, and suburban rail systems. Pre-loaded with City Navigator North America NT.
An ultra-thin GPS navigator with great Garmin features like CityXplorer and ecoRoute. Click to enlarge.
Just over a half-inch thick with a 4.3-inch widescreen display. Click to enlarge.
Easy-to-use touchscreen interface. Click to enlarge.
Garmin greets you with two simple questions: “Where to?” and “View Map.” This screen is central to every navigation function and route-planning tool. Simply plug and play. Click to enlarge.
The device announces the name of exits and streets so you never have to take your eyes off the road. Click to enlarge.
Thin New Design
The nuvi units are just over a half-inch thick and weigh only 5.7 ounces, which means they’ll fit easily into your pocket and can be taken just about anywhere.Bluetooth Wireless Technology
The 1390T enables calling with a compatible phone, giving you a completely hands-free mobile phone experience. Broadcasts navigation and phone calls through your car stereo.NAVTEQ Traffic Receiver Included
The included traffic receiver provides North America traffic information to your 1390T. Using this data, your device alerts you to local traffic tie-ups and displays current traffic levels. The receiver also acts as an in-vehicle power charger. Traffic provided by NAVTEQ Traffic. Watch informational video- Comprehensive, reliable nationwide coverage
- Accurate traffic flow speeds
- Unplanned incidents such as accidents and stalled vehicles
- Planned incidents such as road construction and closures
- Information about special and sports events and holidays that may affect traffic
See More
With nuvi 1390T’s widescreen display, you’ll always get the big picture. View map detail, driving directions, photos, and more in bright, brilliant color. Its sunlight-readable, 4.3-inch display is easy to read–from any direction.Easy-to-Use Touchscreen Interface
One of Garmin’s core beliefs is to continually enhance the simplicity of the user experience. The nuvi on-screen menus are logically arranged, with clearly labeled, colorful icons, making it easy to enter data and get to the information you need quickly.Navigate with Ease
nuvi 1390T comes ready to go right out of the box, with pre-loaded City Navigator North America NT street maps and millions of points of interest (POIs), such as hotels, restaurants, fuel stations, ATMs, and more, with map data provided by NAVTEQ, a world leader in premium-quality mapping. Enter a destination on the touchscreen, and nuvi takes you there with 2-D or 3-D maps and turn-by-turn voice directions. Text to speech enhances standard sat-nav voice guidance by speaking the names of places and roads. It even announces the name of exits and streets so you never have to take your eyes off the road. In addition, nuvi 1390T accepts custom points of interest, such as school zones and safety cameras, and lets you set proximity alerts to warn you of upcoming POIs.Travel North America
With nearly 6 million points of interest and detailed road coverage for the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico, City Navigator North America NT delivers all the data you need to navigate North America.- Displays nearly 6 million points of interest–hotels, restaurants, parking, entertainment, fuel, shopping, and more.
- Includes highways, interstates, business, and residential roads in metropolitan and rural areas.
- Includes such detailed information as turn restrictions, roundabout guidance, speed categories, and other navigation features.
- Gives turn-by-turn directions on your compatible Garmin device.
- Includes postal code support for Canada.
- Contains traffic data for compatible Garmin devices that use traffic receivers.
- Enhances pronunciation data for compatible Garmin devices that speak street names (example: “Turn right on Main Street”).
Lane assist guides you to the correct lane for an approaching turn or exit, making unfamiliar intersections and exits easy to navigate. Click to enlarge.
Junction View gives you a photo-realistic screen that shows you both the road detail as well as the signs as you will see them on the road. Click to enlarge.
Know the Lane Before It’s Too Late
No more guessing which lane you need to be in to make an upcoming turn. Lane assist guides you to the correct lane for an approaching turn or exit, making unfamiliar intersections and exits easy to navigate. It realistically displays road signs and junctions on your route along with arrows that indicate the proper lane for navigation.Junction View takes it a step further, giving you a photo-realistic screen that shows you both the road detail as well as the signs as you will see them on the road.
Pedestrian Navigation
With the Public Transit feature, you can navigate using buses, tramway, metro, and suburban rail systems with optional CityXplorer content. Downloadable CityXplorer data and city guides are available for purchase and download from garmin.com for many cities.Where Am I?
Keep track of yourself and your car with nuvi 1390T. Just tap “Where Am I?” to find the closest hospitals, police stations, fuel stations, nearest address, and intersection. Also see your exact latitude and longitude coordinates. The nuvi 1390T even remembers where you parked. It automatically marks your position when you remove it from the windshield mount, so you can navigate with nuvi on foot and find your way back to your vehicle. Perfect for unfamiliar spots and crowded lots, such as amusement parks, stadiums, and malls.HotFix Satellite Prediction
Garmin’s HotFix capability automatically calculates and stores satellite locations, greatly reducing satellite acquisition time so that you can turn the unit on and get going. With HotFix, your nuvi remembers the position of all satellites it is tracking when you turn it off, and calculates their movements in order to predict where they should be the next time you turn it on. HotFix can predict satellite positions for up to three days after the device was last turned off.MSN Direct Compatible
Add the GDB 55 receiver for MSN Direct. With dynamic content from MSN Direct, you can avoid traffic backups when you travel with your compatible Garmin device. MSN Direct broadcasts traffic data to your GPS navigator so you can find the best route through traffic, check traffic flow, and receive accident warnings.What’s in the Box
nuvi 1390T preloaded with City Navigator North America NT, Vehicle suction cup mount, FM traffic receiver/vehicle power cable, Dashboard disc, Quick start manualWhich nuvi is Best for You?
Note: All nuvis come with detailed NAVTEQ maps containing more than 6 million pre-loaded point of interest locations.
DeviceElectronics B001U0O7RG, Electronics, Garmin nuvi 1390/1390T 4.3-Inch Widescreen Bluetooth Portable GPS Navigator with Traffic, Garmin nuvi 1390/1390T 4.3-Inch Widescreen Bluetooth Portable GPS Navigator with Traffic Lowest Price!Buy TomTom GO 930T 4.3-Inch Widescreen Bluetooth Portable GPS Navigator with Traffic Receiver At Amazon!
Posted on July 22nd, 2010 No comments
Buy TomTom GO 930T 4.3-Inch Widescreen Bluetooth Portable GPS Navigator with Traffic Receiver At Amazon! List Price: $549.95
Amazon Price: $279.99
TomTom GO 930T 4.3-Inch Widescreen Bluetooth Portable GPS Navigator with Traffic Receiver Description:
- Amazon Sales Rank: #3222 in Consumer Electronics
- Brand: TomTom
- Model: GO 930T
- Dimensions: 1.00″ h x 4.70″ w x 3.30″ l, .49 pounds
- Native resolution: 480 x 272
- Display size: 4.3
Features
- Drive anywhere in the United States, Canada, or Europe with turn-by-turn spoken instructions, including street names
- Receives up-to-date traffic information at regular intervals, and automatically adds updates into your routing
- IQ Routes Technology gives you the fastest route every time by using actual average speeds of travel on your route to calculate your trip rather than only posted speed limits, so you’ll always travel the smartest route
- With TomTom Map Share technology, you can instantly modify street names, street direction, POIs, road speeds, and turn restrictions on your own device
- Makes driving even safer with Bluetooth hands-free calling (compatible mobile phone required) and added safety features for easily accessing local emergency providers
Customer Reviews:
TOMTOM 930 VS GARMIN 760
I’ve owned Garmin’s for more than 5 years and I currently own a NUVI 760. I’ve heard the great news about the TOMTOM 930 with IQROUTES, lane guidance, and the HOME feature so I decided to buy the 930 so I can give it a spin and compare it to the NUVI 760 with MSN DIRECT.TOMTOM Pluses:
Arrival time –
The arrival time with IQROUTES are MORE accurate than Garmin’s. The NUVI keeps updating the arrival time during the trip. I compared the arrival time from the start and the TOMTOM was more accurate. TOMTOM is constantly collecting the travel times and updating their database. When you sign in to the HOME program the IQroutes from your trips are uploaded to the TOMTOM server.Routes:
If anyone writes a review about a GPS and states that routes are 100% accurate then they are lieing, I have not found the perfect GPS with perfect routes.
The routes on both the 930 and the NUVI 760 have been identical. With the 930 I see minutes left on the trip, time left, and arrival time. I can even tell the 930 what time I would like to arrive at my destination.I can AVOID any of the roads on my trip. You CANNOT avoid roads on the NUVI 760.TRAFFIC:
I’m using traffic on the 930 through my ATT Tilt phone and it seems to work and it is accurate. It uses my Tilt to access the traffic on the TOMTOM server through the Internet. If you have cell coverage you should have traffic data.
MSN Traffic on the 760 is not accurate and the avoidance feature does not work that well. The bad thing about the MSN Direct feature is that it does not have good range. I live in Chicago and the service does not work in many of the outlying suburbs.PLUSES:
Iqroutes are more accurate than the NUVI.
Lane guidance works in my area.
Avoiding roads on your trip.
Being able to correct street names, closed streets, one ways, and many other errors is a big plus.
Traffic works well.
The GPS chip has not lost reception. I’ve lost the signal numerous times on the NUVI.
More information on the 930 screen than on the 760.TOMTOM minuses:
The screen is hard to see in sunlight.
The maps are not bad since I loaded the Garmin map look on the 930. I even have the magenta route line on my 930.
The battery does not last more than 1 hour.
The Text to speech does not work all the time. The street names are not pronounced as good as the NUVI.
You don’t get the constant reminders that the NUVI 760 provides. Sometimes I don’t think that I drive the 930 with my eyes close. With the 760 you can close your eyes and not miss a turn.
I cannot locate an address by ANY city like the NUVI. Sometimes the 930 cannot locate an address if it thinks it’s in a different city. You have to input the surrounding city names to get the correct address and route.TOMTOM 930
Hello,
I have recently moved in USA and it is a big challenge to drive in USA w/out efficient and reliable GPS. As soon as I landed, I bought Tomtom 930 because Tomtom is very famous in Europe. Just recently, I have bought Garmin 680 for my wife and I have been using for for 3 days and can make proper evaluation despite time is short to make an accurate evaluation:
PROS and CONS of Tomtom 930 & Garmin 680
1. Tomtom is a lot more user friendly with remote control.
2. You can find the locations with Zip Codes (I have not seen such spec in Garmin yet at least)
3. Tomtom’s guidance is a lot better in complex areas (And with Lane help, it is even better).
4. Tomtom’s map is not as good as Garmin’s at least for USA. Garmin can find more destinations and more side streets. Tomtom is great only if you don’t need every single street in each and every city.
5. Garmin has a lot better view on the screen when compared to Tomtom. It is more clearer and tells you on the screen the next street you must take and the distance left. I may feel it complicated on Tomtom’s screen because I am color blind. So, suggest you do not rely on this evaluation too much.
6. EPT is a great feature for Tomtom which guides you even there is no satellite reception. However, this feature sometimes crashes and turns the device off.
7. Tomtom follows different ways for the same origin and destinations. It is so strange but I do not really know the reason.Last but not least, Tomtom is a great product with great features when compared to Garmin 680. However, if your occupation is sales like me, you need Garmin to find where you need to go in all details. But, Garmin’s features are a lot less than Tomtom’s. I wish there was a GPS which compiles all pros together in one device. You should also compare the price difference between two devices I own.
930 a good PND, but not much different from the 920
Pros:
Much improved trip time estimates
Better routing choices than previous TomTom models
Interface customization optionsCons:
Hard to see screen in bright light
No route optimization
TeleAtlas map accuracy (at least in Florida)
Inability to route to off-road locations
Operating System stabilityI’ve had the 930 since the end of April, running it side by side with a Garmin 760. Overall, it’s been a fine performer. But it’s also pretty much a 920 with only one real updated feature. . . IQRoutes. TomTom added (via navcore8) historical speed data to the TeleAtlas mapset, greatly improving not only it’s estimated trip times but it’s routing decisions. Whereas TomTom devices have been among the poorest in drivetime estimates, the 930 is now pretty much dead on for most trips. In fact, my Garmin, which has always had excellent drive time accuracy, now is matched and even sometimes bettered by the 930, depending on time of day. Both units can be trusted in this regard. Routing is also improved. During rush hour, if the TomTom 930 recommends a different route than my nuvi, I tend to go with the TomTom. In the evenings, or at light traffic times, the 760 may be a bit better, tho not always. In fact the 930 and Garmin 760 will now frequently recommend nearly the same route. This is really the only step up feature from the 920 for all practical purposes. The other two touted features, Active Lane Guidance and Static Interchange Images, will rarely, if ever, be seen by most users. In 6 weeks of driving in Central Florida I’ve seen ALG perhaps three times and Static images never. Not even once. The only users who seem to ever see them are in the countries densest metro areas: San Francisco, Chicago, New York, etc, and no frequency even there. So if these are the features that interest you, buy a TomTom 920 instead (or better yet a Navigon). The hardware, features and performance of the 920 and 930 are otherwise identical. For the current price difference between the 920 and 930, my recommendation is the 920. Just not yet enough difference to justify the extra $150-$200 price premium for the 930. Until IQRoutes takes time of day into consideration in it’s route computions, the usefulness is still somewhat limited. Currently the options are three: Mon through Fri / Saturday / Sunday. No time of day or weekday option.
A couple of issues I have with this TomTom are system stability and the TeleAtlas maps. In Florida, at least, the TA map, while very detailed, is much more error-prone than the Navteq maps (used by several others, including Garmin, Google and Magellan). There are a lot of “imaginary” roads, some highways misdrawn, and others no longer existing or misnamed. The maps do appear to reflect many new road additions, but are slow to show corrections to existing roads. This level of error is not seen in my Navteq map, tho it too is far from perfect or all-inclusive.
My 930 has rebooted for no obvious reason on several occasions and required one system reset so far. In contrast I’ve never had to reset my 760 in nearly 8 months of use and can remember only one spontaneous reboot. The TomTom OS is suspect with regard to stability in my opinion. Speed limits data is seldom seen, unlike my 760 and Navteq’s extensive speed limit displays. Map updates have also been somewhat problematic. The only other issues of note are listed at the top of the review, with the screen being the most apparent problem for most users. The Garmin 760 display is very bright with vivid colors and clean text, easily seen in my truck with the brightest sunshine. The TomTom 930 screen is sometimes nearly unreadable under the same conditions. Moving it off the windshield, using an optional vent mount for example, improves the viewing quite a lot.
Voices are very good, not quite the quality of the Garmin voices, but usually a little louder. Some limitations on enunciation , but not enough to cause an issue for most users. The included remote is more of a novelty than truly useful, IMO, as I can touch enter addresses faster than I can with voice entry and with less aggravation. It should be noted tho that the only way to move backwards in the menus is with the remote.
Overall, the 930 is a very good automotive gps, better than my 760 at some things, worse in others, but worthy of consideration, tho the 920 (or nuvi 7×0′s) is a better value for the features.
Amazon.com Product Description
TomTom’s software means ground-breaking new technology for the ultimate driving experience. Switch on and go right out of the box. Just enter the address on the touchscreen or use voice address entry and start driving anywhere in the United States, Canada, or Europe. TomTom guides you door-to-door with turn-by-turn spoken instructions, including street names.
Ground-breaking new technology for the ultimate driving experience. Click to enlarge.
Sleek and portable form factor. Click to enlarge.
IQ Routes Technology gives you the fastest route every time by using actual average speeds of travel to calculate your trip rather than posted speed limits. You’ll always travel the smartest route. Advanced Lane Guidance uses photorealistic images to bring even more clarity to complex multi-lane exits so you can be more confident on the road. Enhanced Positioning Technology gives you uninterrupted navigation, even in tunnels or highly built-up areas.
TomTom has the most accurate maps, and with TomTom Map Share technology, you instantly can modify street names, street direction, points of interest, and more on your own device.
The GO 930 T receives up-to-date traffic information at regular intervals. Automatically adds the update into your routing, calculates your new trip time, and suggests alternate routes.
And with the “Help Me!” menu, added safety features enable you to easily access local emergency providers. The GO 930 makes driving even safer with Bluetooth hands-free calling.
The TomTom GO 930 is the ultimate car navigator.
GO 930 T Features
- Maps of United States, Canada, and Europe with TomTom Map Share
- Bluetooth Hands-Free Calling
- Spoken Street Names
- IQ Routes Technology
- Advanced Lane Guidance
- Enhanced Positioning Technology
- Voice Address Input
- FM Transmitter
- iPod Ready
- Includes RDS-TMC traffic receiver and one year subscription to TomTom Traffic*
*Subscription valid for United States and Canada only
All TomToms Feature
Plug & Go–Works right out of the box.
Preloaded Points of Interest–Easily find millions of gas stations, restaurants, hotels, and more on your route.
30-Day Latest Map Guarantee–Up to date, off the shelf.
TomTom Map Share–Modify your own map and benefit from others’ verified changes with TomTom Map Share.
Help Me! Emergency Menu–Easily access local emergency providers, such as police, fire stations, and hospitals.
TomTom HOME–Always up to date.
Traffic Ready–Optional RDS-TMC traffic receiver accessory keeps you up-to-date on traffic events to minimize potential delays.
Fuel Price Service (optional)–Know more, pay less.
Why TomTom?
TomTom believes that personal navigation should be as easy and safe as possible. TomTom develops smart technology that gives you straightforward solutions, innovations to make life easy.
Easy to Use
- Award-winning navigation software
- Plug & go
Best Maps
- 30-Day Latest Map Guarantee
- Modify your own map and benefit from others’ verified changes with TomTom Map Share
Best Routing
- QuickGPSfix
- Traffic ready
Leader in Safety
- Help Me! emergency resources menu
- Safety preferences menu
About TomTom
Founded in Amsterdam in 1991, TomTom has established itself as a global leader in navigation by being an innovative company with a strong brand, clear customer focus, and high-quality products and services.
TomTom is a leading navigation solutions provider with navigation products sold in 30 countries and in over 20 languages. To further its commitment to car navigation, TomTom acquired Tele Atlas maps in 2008 so that the company can continually provide the most up-to-date maps and intelligent routing.
TomTom has its own mapping company!
Did you know that every year, roads change by up to 40% in high-growth areas? Tele Atlas manages this by using the world’s most comprehensive systems to identify and incorporate these changes into our maps with unprecedented levels of speed and accuracy. All TomTom devices benefit from the Tele Atlas advantage–more coverage, more points of interest, and more freshness and accuracy.
What’s in the Box
GO 930 T device, Windshield mount, desk dock, car charger, Bluetooth remote control, software/manual CD, documentation, RDS-TMC receiver
Sigma 28mm f/1.8 EX DG Aspherical Macro Large Aperture Wide Angle Lens for Canon SLR Cameras Sale-$349.00!
Posted on July 22nd, 2010 No comments
Sigma 28mm f/1.8 EX DG Aspherical Macro Large Aperture Wide Angle Lens for Canon SLR Cameras Sale-$349.00! List Price: $450.00
Amazon Price: $349.00
Sigma 28mm f/1.8 EX DG Aspherical Macro Large Aperture Wide Angle Lens for Canon SLR Cameras Description:
This lens has a macro focusing capability with fast F1.8 maximum aperture, which is ideal for Digital SLR cameras.This lens is capable of Macro photography, with minimum shooting distance of 20cm (7.8 inch) (reproduction ratio 1: 2.9) and angle of view is 75.4. You can take picture not only the subject but also the surrounding scenery.The lens has an advanced optical construction, in order to obtain adequate peripheral brightness with open aperture. Also, the iris diaphragm has 9 diaphragm blades to obtain beautiful out of focus images in the foreground and background.The lens incorporates a Dual-Focus (DF) mechanism. It is easy to hold the lens, since the focusing ring does not rotate during auto-focus, yet it provides adequate focusing torque of the focusing ring during manual focusing of the lens. Also, this also allows the use of a Petal-type Hood and the easy use of a polarizing filter.It incorporates a floating focus system and uses two aspherical lens elements for minimizing distortion, aberration and astigmatism.
- Brand: Sigma
- Model: B00005RKSS
- Dimensions: 1.06 pounds
Features
- Macro focusing capability with fast F1.8 maximum aperture
- Minimum shooting distance of 20cm (7.8 inch)
- Dual-Focus (DF) mechanism
Customer Reviews:
Superb, with some reservations
Let me start by saying I’m not a hardcore fan of any particular brand. I like to gauge lenses by their individual merits, rather than discussing them as a brand.The Sigma 28mm f/1.8 EX is an excellent lens from an optical standpoint. On digital and film SLRs from Nikon, I was always quite impressed with the optical quality. Even wide-open at f/1.8, it is roughly as good as the Nikkor 50mm f/1.8, which is somewhat low in contrast, but still resolves quite a bit of detail on the focal plane. Stopping down a stop or two, like with most lenses, really brings out the contrast and sharpness, and this lens delivered quite wonderfully, matching the famous 28/2.8 AIS Nikkor for sharpness both up-close and at infinity. Further, this lens allows closer focusing than the Nikkor, and possesses less apparent geometric distortion. As much as I love the AIS28, the Sigma is quite brilliant too.
While very good at infinity, the lens shines for moderate closeups of objects like flowers. Although it says “macro” in the name, it only approaches 1:2.9 magnification, and the distance from the front element is quite small, so live insect photography will likely not be its forte. At this range, the lens also has a much smoother out-of-focus rendering wide-open than much of its competition (such as the 28/2 AIS Nikkor). If you like smooth boke (not everyone does, but many do), this can be a good lens for that effect.
The biggest downsides are the size and the autofocus. Although it is high quality, the lens was simply too big for my taste. Compared to my 28/2.8 AIS, the Sigma is simply massive. In fact, it is about the same size as a 28/1.4 Nikkor, and uses larger (77mm) filters! This is a concern for people who like using filters like polarizers, which get much more expensive at large sizes. The second major issue is that the autofocus mechanism has proven unreliable, particularly on Canon versions of the lens. My Nikon experienced some focus inconsistency at midrange distances (better consistency up close). As I tend to manually focus, this was not too much of a problem, but for those who do depend on it heavily…this lens might cause frustration. Bear in mind, this is not the case for EVERY lens of this make; it is likely an issue with sample variation which has been pointed out for some time. Some people have great luck, some are not so lucky.
As I prefer to manually focus and personally prefer smaller lenses, I opted instead for my AIS Nikkor, which has roughly equal optical quality in a much smaller package with inexpensive 52mm filters. However, I do miss my 28/1.8 Sigma and, were it a smaller, manual focus lens, I would likely be using it today.
If you can get over the gargantuan size and if you can circumnavigate the sample-variation-related AF quirks, this lens is quite beautiful. I must give the designers kudos, even if it’s not the perfect lens for me personally.
Very versatile, good colors and bokeh.
Since I’ve purchased this lens it has hardly left my K110D body. A bit soft wide open but if low light cannot be worked around it’s better than the alternatives (flash, motion blurr). Beautiful colors and especially good transition from in-focus to out-of-focus areas. I bit bulky but I knew this a priori and I quite like it now compared to lighter lenses. Seems well built and focusing is very smooth.BEST WIDEANGLE LENS I HAVE USED
This lens is awesome.
I wanted a wideangle for shooting indoor low light. This filled that void and then some. I wasnt satisfied with the idea of getting a f/2.8 wideangle lens for shooting indoors. I wanted something faster, then I stumbled up on this lens. I could not find many reviews, but I figured Sigma was a good brand, and anyways the lens turned out to be fantastic.
I use it primary for indoor shooting and for situations where I need a wider angle of view.
I would highly recommend this lens to anyone who just needs something wider than a 50mm on a DX sensor.
I am using this on a Nikon D90 and have been overwhelmingly satisfied with this product.