Aiptek Offers Cheapest HD Camcorder

In my previous post, I talked about a great High Definition camcorder, the EVERIO GZ-HD7. Well, in this post, I'm going to share with you guys a newly released(introduced by Aiptek on 30th May, 2007) budget HD camcorder, the GO-HD. In fact, not only is it a budget camcorder, it is the cheapest HD camcorder, for now. While it may appear like a low-end digital camcorder, it nevertheless sets a new low price for HD camcorders. Though you may not have heard of the brand before, this model, GO-HD will make a good first camcorder for those who do not want to fork out a lump sum of money for their first ever digital camcorder. This camcorder retails for more or less RM1000. Not bad considering the High Definition feature and it fits the bill perfectly for amateur users wanting to get themselves into some crisp clear video recording.


Image taken from: http://www.aiptek.com



The Aiptek GO-HD records 1280 x 720 images in an H.264 format to SD cards. Meeting the minimum requirements for what can be considered high definition is little more than a camera that can record 1280 x 720 (0.9MP) stills at 30fps for sustained periods. Similar camcorders have tested very poorly for overall video quality compared to more expensive HD camcorders.
The Aiptek GO-HD is equipped with a 5MP CMOS sensor, a 3x optical zoom and captures stills up to 2560 x 1920. A 2.4” TFT LCD extends from the left side of the body. Ports include composite, component, and USB. The GO-HD also offers a built-in LED light for night shooting.


Sanyo VPC-HD2
Image taken from: http://www.quesabesde.com/video-digital/noticias/Sanyo_H2D_2.jpg


The body design looks like it has been liberally lifted from the Sanyo VPC-HD2 (as shown in the picture above). What do you think? You guys be the judge. The tall and thin body has a rear-mounted up/down zoom toggle and joystick. The LCD panel has three playback control buttons.


Image taken from:
http://www.aiptek.com/www2/images/photo-hdv-2_02.jpg


The multiple recording options include 1280 x 720 at 30fps, 720 x 480 at 30fps, and 325 x 240 at 30fps. Files are exported in the .MOV format. Media Player 11 Decoder software comes with the camcorder. Aiptek claims that a 4GB SD card can store up to 120 minutes of the highest quality video. However, no SD card is included but the camcorder does ship with two small batteries and a remote control.

So which would you prefer? Rather leave out quality and style for an affordable price or would you rather pay more for a camcorder bearing a trusted brand that possess great features and design?