Ultra Cool Gadgets

If you’re going to play at the highest level, you need a mouse that gives you an edge. The Logitech MX 518 Gaming-Grade Optical Mouse does exactly that with its ultra-high resolution, 1600-dpi MX Optical Engine that delivers lightning-fast response and mirror-smooth tracking. The MX 518s advantages dont stop there. You get instant, on-the-fly sensitivity adjustment that lets you switch effortlessly from pixel-precise targeting to fast-twitch acceleration, without any software. And the contoured grip ensures peak performance and comfort, even during the most intense gaming sessions.

Customer Feedback

I like this mouse a lot. With the right mouse pad (a Microthin Wow!Pad from Office Depot), this mouse glides beautifully, never seen one better. The main buttons are easy to push (only Microsoft does this right also). The forward and back side buttons are a little small but work fine. The scroll wheel is not as nice as the MS Intellimouse 4 as it still clicks and is harder to roll. Never used the tilt wheel on the MS mouse. It is gaming where this mouse shines. The mouse tracks no matter how fast I move the mouse. The mouse never sleeps so it always responds perfectly. Frankly, I have not yet found any use that I needed to change the mouse resolution (i.e. speed) but in trials that is easy to do. Feel is good, middle to small sized so fits most of my family. Cord is thin and a little stiff so it does not always lay completely flat (I have not found on that did). Very lightweight. Contoured nicely to fit the cupped hand.
Worked with Win XP as soon as I plugged it in, drivers and program loaded with no hassle.
Nice job, Logitech!

Sony’s HVL-HIRL video light serves two functions in one device. It works as an infrared NightShot light and 3-watt video light for Sony camcorders that fits easily as HotShoe accessory. The NightShot function works up to 23 feet, and the Super NightShot up to 66 feet. The light is powered by the camera battery, so it automatically shuts off when the handycam is put in standby mode. When it becomes dark, the HVL-HIRL has automatic and manual settings for variable light intensity. Light dimensions are 1.5 by 2.38 by 1.59 inches, and weight is 0.9 pounds. Also includes accessory pouch.

Technical Details:
Works as infrared ray light and 3-watt video light for NightShot
Fits easily as HotShoe accessory for Sony Handycams
NightShot works up to 23 feet, Super NightShot up to 66 feet
Automatic and manual settings for variable light intensity
Includes accessory pouch

Customer feedback:

1. This light is great! I keep it mounted on my video camera and I never miss a shot due to low light. The light really improves indoor shots. The IR light is an added bonus for capturing night shots that the built in IR just can’t reach.

2. I’m a member of a paranormal investigation group so IR nightshot is a must. What came with my camera (Sony HDR-HC5) was good but not as good as it could be with this attachment. I can already tell a drastic increase in the night shot capabilities. This is definitely recommended by me if you need to do anything in low light such as film paranormal anomolous activity or even just tape drunk uncle Jimmy running around the yard at night.

Expand your camcorder’s lighting possibilities with the Sony HVL-HFL1 combination video light and flash. Just attach it to your compatible Handycam camcorder’s accessory shoe to get brilliant light for shooting in dark situations, or a flash for still photography. The HVL-HFL1′s auto function feature automatically turns the video light on whenever the lighting is poor. It is powered by the camcorder, so there is no need for an external battery. A handy storage pouch is included to protect the light whenever it is disconnected from your camcorder.

Technical Details:
Combination video light and flash for compatible Handycam camcorders
Power is supplied by the camcorder; no need for external batteries
Provides bright lighting for shooting in dark places
Built-in flash for still photography on a camcorder
Compact, lightweight and easy to store

Customer feedback:

1. I just received the HVL-HFL1 (video light and flash). It is small, light and compact but since I ordered, I realize the HVL-HL1 (video light only) is available and is about $100 less. Since the DVD-403 comes with a flash (albeit small), I am going to return and reorder the HVL-HL1 which is about $40. The video light was the main reason for ordering this for me. If you do want the flash capability, it does look well built and stylish (and did I say small). I guess the small size is a benefit of using the camcorder battery (rather than built in).

2. Works in well 5 to 20 ft away. There is no ajustablity for close recording. the light shots over the top of subject for video at 5 ft or less. the flash feature is perfect.

Broaden your field of view with these high grade lenses.They offer unmatched ease of use, making them the accessories of choice for reducing distortion and boosting image detail in a wide angle format.

Technical Details:
0.7x wide-angle converter lens for 37mm/30mm diameter camcorders
Certified High Definition picture quality
The lightest conversion lens for HD
Easily squeeze and attach lens

Customer feedback:

1. I own a Sony HDR-XR520V (as of March 2009 Sony’s top consumer HD camcorder) and this lens fits perfectly without any adapters. It’s a bit heavy and bulky but it gives you great shots that look professional. Perfect for ‘Letterbox’ recording. It does not support additional filters though and recommends that you do not use them with it either. I would like to see a filter marketed that could be attached over this lens by a rubber ring. Or (even better) a rubber ring adapter that could be used to attach any different filter with standard threads.

2. Having recently purchased this lens, I wanted to share my opinions on it. My camera is the Sony HDR-XR520V. My biggest reason for wanting this lens was so I could fit more in the picture when I filming indoors. It works beautifully for this, I now have a lot more in the frame. The picture is clear all the way around. There is some slight barrel distortion around the edges of the picture, but it’s only noticeable with straight lines, and it’s very slight. I’ve read in places that the lens is heavy and uncomfotable to use one the camera, but I disagree. Yes, it does add some weight, not enough for me to be concerned though.