Aiptek Camcorder Reviews 2009

Review: Aiptek 720p A-HD Flash-based High-Definition Camcorder

Not too long ago, Aiptek decided to throw a monkey-wrench into the cheap camcorder market by introducing a flash-based camcorder that recorded in 720p high-definition - the Aiptek GO-HD. Not surprisingly, it received a wide array of both good and bad reviews, with some people loving the camcorder for it's cheap price of $250 and video far better than current YouTube-esque camcorders, and others hating it for being the lowest of the low on the scale of worth-while high-definition camcorders. Despite some (very) negative reviews by critics, the consumers spoke, and it became quite clear that the GO-HD camcorder was something that interested many. Listening to most of the complaints about the GO-HD, Aiptek improved on the camera and released it in a different, cheaper model known as the 720p A-HD. This camcorder retails at a mere $149.99 and records in 720p high definition on standard flash SD and SDHC cards.

The A-HD has a number of features. It comes with both composite and component cords, and allows users to record video and TV directly to the player. In addition, the camcorder has a play back feature that allows the users to playback videos to their TV like a small DVR. It also offers a 5 megapixel still camera feature, and a voice recording feature.

The video quality of this cheap high-definition camcorder is amazing for it's price. Any hobbyist will recognize that the bitrate is too low, and that minor artifacts present themselves in the video. To the average person, however, the footage from this camcorder looks amazing.

The audio, on the other hand, isn't as nice. The microphone is too sensitive and has a problem with clipping loud audio. Filming concerts, for example, is not a viable option with this camcorder, as the audio will end up as nothing more than static. It also, at times, has issues even recording the user talking if there are other loud noises around.

The body of the device itself is incredibly light as it is made entirely from plastic - the only metal on the camcorder is around the lens. The LCD screen folds out away from the body; the bottom of the camcorder has a tripod mount and a slot for an SD card. The right side of the camcorder holds the battery. The back of the camera holds the controls buttons, which are surprisingly easy to navigate with one hand while filming. The record button is on the front of the unit, directly under the flash.

This camcorder is ideal for anyone who wants a cheap, high-quality YouTube camcorder, or for anyone who wants a cheap camcorder that can be carried easily in a pocket. It is also good for extreme sports filming, such as strapping it to a bike or race car.

To see some high-quality samples shot with the camcorder, you can find a channel on Vimeo.com for videos shot with the Aiptek A-HD.

By Blair Mathis - Blair is a fulltime freelance writer who specializes in travel and technology writing. Having worked for both private and corporate clients, Blair has experience working to meet a wide range of requirements...

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