If you are one of those people who likes to watch images literally flying off the screen, then DXG has a camera for you.  Now, we have covered DXG quite extensively here at JAMM, and I have been extremely impressed watching how far they have come from some of the early cameras we looked at.  Their latest, however, really goes far beyond anything we have seen before.  This one lets you record video in full 3D.  You can even use the bundled 3D media player to replay all of your exciting vacation videos and immerse your friends in that trip you took to Cancun last month.  Keep reading for the full press release from DXG.

With blockbuster hits like James Cameron’s Avatar opening consumers eyes to an entirely new world of 3D entertainment, it’s no surprise that demand for 3D technology and content is on the rise, with 3DTV sales expected to grow 142% between 2010 and 2011.* Arming consumers with the ability to now create their own 3D content, DXG (www.dxgusa.com) today launched the DXG 3D pocket camcorder and 3D 7-inch media player bundle, allowing for easy filming and playback of 3D video and pictures with no glasses required. The 3D camcorder and media player bundle is available now for pre-sale atwww.hammacher.com for $599.99.

Bring Your Videos and Pictures to Life in Full 3D

For the first time ever, you will be able to create home movies in 3D and relive each moment in lifelike detail thanks to the new DXG 3D pocket camcorder and media player. With the camcorder’s compact pistol-grip design and flexible playback options, you can instantly view, record and playback 3D video or photos directly on the 3.2-inch LCD camcorder display, on the included 3D 7-inch media player, or directly on your 3DTV. Supporting up to 16GB high-capacity SD cards, you can record hours of summertime fun in 3D and take 3D 5-megapixel still images, as well as capture 2D video and pictures.

Enjoying your newly created 3D memories is a cinch with the included DXG 3D media player. Boasting a vivid 7-inch LCD display, glasses are not required to see your video and photos pop out and come to life in full 3D on the player. Convenient touch screen keys and remote control of the media player not only allow you to view your 3D and 2D video and photo masterpieces with ease, but also let you control the built-in MP3 music player, alarm clock and calendar. Also included in the package are HDMI and AV cables for easy playback of your summertime shenanigans directly on your 3DTV.

“DXG is excited to be at the forefront of the 3D digital content revolution and release a product that allows people to easily create their own 3D masterpieces,” said Paul Goldberg,senior vice president of sales and marketing at DXG USA. “We specifically designed our 3D camcorder and media player bundle with the consumer in mind to create an all-in-one, fun and easy way to record and watch life’s adventures in 3D.”

DXG-5D7V 3D Pocket Camcorder Specifications:

v Availability: Pre-sale at www.hammacher.com; Shipment date of August 6, 2010

v Price: 3D Camcorder & Media Player Bundle – $599.99

v Dimensions: 1.63” (W) x 4.88” (H) x 2.93” (D)

v LCD: 3.2-inch 3D TFT Display

v Storage: 128MB Built-in Memory; Supports High-Capacity SD Cards up to 16GB

v Video Resolution & Format: VGA Standard 3D Dual-Lens Technology; H.264 AVI File Format

v Still Photo Resolution & Format: 5-megapixel; JPEG format

v Power Supply: NP-60 Li-ion Battery

v Zoom: 4X Digital Zoom (2D mode only)

v Connections: HDMI interface and cable; USB/AV cable for connecting to the TV or to your PC or Mac

v Software Included:  3D Video Conversion Software

v Other Items Included in Package: 3D Media Player, Camcorder case, HDMI cable, USB/AV cable, NP-60 Li-ion battery, battery charger

DXG 3D Media Player Specifications:

v Dimensions: 8.39” (W) x 5.41” (H) x 0.94” (D)

v LCD: 7” Parallax-Barrier Auto-Stereoscopic (Glasses-Free) TFT Display

v Resolution: 800×480

v Display Effects: Normal, black and white, Sepia, Lens Distortion

v Video Format & Resolution: MPEG4, AVI, 720x480p at 30fps

v Audio & Image Format: MP3; JPEG

v Control Format: Touchable Keys, Remote Control

v Audio & Video Output: AVOUT, Earphone Stereoscopic Output

v Storage: Supports SD/MMC

v Power Supply: 5V DC, 2A

v Output Interface: USB 2.0

I am a real fan of water sports.  My kids and I spend hours at the pool, we vacation at the beach,and I am relatively proficient with all manner of manually propelled watercraft (ie: rowboats).  The problem I have is that I can never adequately document many of these experiences.  You all know that water and electronics, especially HD cameras do not mix.  In the past, taking pictures of my watery adventures has meant a boxy plastic case which just felt clumsy, and significantly facilitated some really poorly composed shots as the heavy plastic interfered with the viewscreen and lens.  Today, DXG is changing all of that with the Sportster, a video camera designed for water adventures.  I am really excited to check this one out, but for now you will have to be content with the press release, which is below.

Life is full of adventures and DXG (www.dxgusa.com) today introduced the perfect companion to capture each exhilarating moment with its new Sportster line of high-definition video cameras. Available at retailers today for $169.99, the DXG-Sportster features a rugged waterproof design that captures 1080p HD video up to 10 feet underwater with the push of a button. Ideal for active consumers, the DXG-Sportster is the all-in-one HD camcorder and camera ready to capture life’s adventures, whether snorkeling, snowboarding, mountain biking, or exploring a new city.

High Definition Video at 10 Feet Under
Available now in a traditional camcorder form factor and coming soon in a pistol-grip design, DXG designed the Sportster line to meet the adventurous lifestyles of its consumers. With the simple push of the “Dive” button, the Sportster lenses automatically adjust to adapt to underwater colors and conditions, allowing users to film up to 10 feet for one hour. In or out of the water, the DXG-Sportster captures HD video and vibrant 12-megapixel still images on a 3-inch LCD display. Equipped with USB/AV and HDMI outputs and cables, DXG makes sharing outdoor adventures quick and easy on Web sites such as YouTube or Facebook and supports instant playback on large HDTVs.

“We are excited to introduce the DXG-Sportster line to outdoor and sports enthusiasts who want to be able to instantly capture their adventures as they happen without sacrificing quality,” said Paul Goldberg, senior vice president of sales and marketing at DXG USA. “We aimed to design a truly all-in-one camcorder and camera that provides HD quality in any environment, whether snorkeling in the Atlantic or hiking in Lake Tahoe.”

DXG-Sportster Specifications
- Availability: www.dxgusa.com
- Price: $169.99
- Dimensions: Horizontal-grip model: 4.49” (W) x 2.56” (H) x 2.09” (D)
- LCD: 3” TFT Screen
- Storage: Built in 128MB, SD/SDHC slot for expandable memory up to 32GB Class 2 or faster
- Video Resolution & Format: 1920 x 1080/30fps; 720p/30fps; H.264, AVI File Format
- Still Photo: up to 12 megapixel
- Power Supply: Li-ion NP40
- Zoom: 4X digital zoom
- Color Effects: Color, black and white, sepia
- Connections: HDMI for connecting to HDTV, USB/AV cable for connecting to the TV or to your PC or Mac
- Video Editing Software Included: ArcSoft TotalMedia HDCam ($99 retail value)
- Other Items Included in Package: HDMI Cable, camcorder case, USB/AV cable, NP-40 Li-ion battery, battery charger

What do you get when you cross 1080p HD video, 12x Optical Zoom, 10 megapixel still images, Eye-fi wireless support, and a 3-inch LCD touchscreen?  Yeah, I have no idea either, but I would sure love to find out.  To get there, though, we will need to hear from DXG.  They seem to have the answer to these questions and plenty more with their new DXG A85V Pro Gear HD Camcorder.  Toss in a tiny price tag of only $319.99, and this is starting to look like a pretty nice package.  How nice, you may ask?  Well, we cannot answer that today.  You will need to stay tuned for the review, which should be coming soon.  In the meantime, read on for the full press release.

DXG (www.dxgusa.com) today introduced its new DXG-A85V Pro Gear™ HD camcorder, making top of the line camcorder technology available to any video enthusiast. With impressive features such as 1080p HD video capture, 12X optical zoom, a 10 megapixel still camera, touch screen controls on a 3-inch LCD display and Eye-Fi Wireless SD card support, the DXG-A85V is sure to impress. Available now, the DXG-A85V retails for $319.99.

Professional Grade Camcorder Capabilities for a Fraction of the Cost

The top reported camcorder trends of 2010* include video products that are not only HD, but create Web-friendly files, use Flash format memory, are ultra-portable and have wireless capabilities. DXG created its Pro Gear line, first introduced in January with the DXG-A80V model, to meet growing consumer demands for products that provide advanced features, flexibility and easy control of recording and playback, at a price that won’t break the bank.

The DXG-A85V records in full 1080p HD and provides several filming options, such as high-speed sequential shots (snap up to 30 photos per second) and dual-capture mode to enable video recording and still image capture simultaneously. With the advanced option of recording in H.264 (MOV) or WVGA formats, the DXG-A85V lets users create video files that meet their needs of either quick uploads to sites like YouTube or crisp HD video playback on a HDTV. The AF Lock Function also gives more experienced users the ability to manually control and fine tune the focus on a subject.

Equipped with an instant-on feature, DXG-A85V users will never miss another video perfect moment. While the 3-inch LCD touch screen provides convenient access to the menu as well as focus control by simply tapping the desired focus area. Equipped with a built-in Gyro sensor for electronic image stabilizer and 12X optical zoom, you can also steadily film objects from a distance, while the option of recording at 60 frames-per-second is perfect for action moments.

“With our Pro Gear™ line, our goal is to deliver high-quality, feature-rich HD camcorders that compare to top of the line products on the market at a price that’s affordable for any video enthusiast,” said Paul Goldberg, senior vice president of sales and marketing at DXG USA. “With its unique blend of advanced recording options, very easy to use controls, and dual-application support of uploading to either the Internet or burn and playback on a big screen HDTV, the DXG-A85V is truly two camcorders for the price of one.”

DXG-A85V Specifications

• Availability: www.dxgusa.com, Walmart.com, Amazon.com, Walgreens.com and AAFES.com (Armed Forces Exchange Services)
• Price: $319.99
• Dimensions: 4.92” (L) x 2.52” (W) x 2.52” (H)
• LCD: 3” Touch Screen Display
• Storage: Built in 128MB, SD slot for expandable memory up to 16GB Class 6
• Video Resolution: 1920 x 1080/30fps; 720p/60fps
• Still Photo: 10 megapixel
• Power Supply: Li-ion NP-120
• Zoom: 12X optical zoom/10X digital zoom
• Color Effects: Color, black and white, sepia
• Connections: HDMI for connecting to HDTV (HDMI cable included in box), AV for connecting to a Standard Definition TV, USB for connecting to PC or Mac
• Video Editing Software Included: Mr. Photo (photo editing), VideoWorks (standard definition video editing), ArcSoft TotalMedia HDcam (high definition video editing/ conversion to AVCHD for burning to DVD or Blu-ray disc) – $99 retail value
• Other Features: Electronic Image Stabilization, Eye-Fi Wireless Ready, Dual-Capture Mode, High-Speed Sequential Shooting Mode (30 photos per second), Digital Voice Recording, PC and Mac compatible, Self timer, LED flash, TV out (NTSC, PAL), USB 2.0, Optional remote control

Earlier today, at CES, DXG announced their new line of cameras, and I have to say that I am pretty impressed.  I am not going to say too much here because I think these specs will speak for themselves.  The upcoming DXG-A80V features:

· Highest video capture with true 1080p at 30fps, or 1080i at 60fps

· 5X optical zoom

· Impressive 10 megapixel still camera

· Built-in Gyro sensor for electronic image stabilization

· 3-inch LCD touch screen

· Auto and manual focus

· Supports SDHC up to 32GB

· Outfitted with an HDMI interface and package includes an HDMI cable

Wow.  Just wow.  Of course, specs only go so far, so we will be putting this one through its full paces soon,and we will see how the real thing stands up to these specs.  I will say, however, that I am pretty excited by the prospect of true HD video capabilities, and those touch screen controls.

In addition to announcing this new flagship camera, DXG also previewed a few other cameras which they expect to release later in the year.  These include:

· DXG Sportsters: DXG creates true waterproof HD video capture technology – with features such as 1080p HD video recording, a built-in 12 megapixel still camera, and waterproof design up to 10 feet, the Sportsters line will be perfect for any water adventurist.

· DXG QuickShots: Combining key design and performance features for easy video capture at a budget price, QuickShots will be the ideal gadget for video enthusiasts seeking quality and affordability.

· New Luxe Collection: DXG will be adding chic new designs to its popular Luxe line of couture high-definition camcorders. New styles will include the Chelsea Series (houndstooth designs), Paisley Series (paisley designs) and the Kensington Series (tartan designs) with vibrant color combinations.

The DXG-A80V is the first entrant in DXG’s new Pro Gear line of cameras.  It is available now from a variety of retailers for $299.99.  For more information, check out DXG’s website (www.dxgusa.com)

Not long ago, Thomas and I had the chance to check out a few DXG HD video cameras.  While I really liked a lot of what I saw, I had one big complaint.  Yeah, you guessed it, you can’t take these cameras deep sea diving…or even get them wet at all.  OK.  Maybe that was not really the big complaint about these cameras, but I have always been intrigued by waterproof cameras cases, and I was thrilled when DXG contacted me shortly after we posted the initial review to ask whether I would be interested in checking out their underwater value pack, which they were nice enough to send along.

The underwater value pack consists of the DXG-U579V camera and an underwater case to go with it.  Since the camera is almost identical to the one Thomas looked at in our joint review, I am not going to discuss it or the picture/video quality in this review.  You can check out the previous review for that.  Just to give you a highlight, though, Thomas had this to say about the DXG 581V, which was the follow up to the 579V:

it’s great to see an attractive, vertical sub-$200 camcorder with a flip-out screen. It’s a great form factor, but the design – especially the lens – need some work. It’s tough to film yourself at arm’s length or use with a tripod with the sensor tilted upwards, but it’s the picture quality that could really use a boost. At $170 the DXG-581v is an affordable video camera, but it’s really HD in name only, and I’d probably look elsewhere for a camera.

So, that gives you an idea of the camera you can expect and the picture quality you will find.  Today, however, I really wanted to spend some time talking about that waterproof case.  I wasted no time putting it to the test.  I tested it in three different places. 

First, I took it to the pool, where I shot some photos and video of my boys swimming and jumping around, mostly from a submerged vantage point.  Then, I took it on vacation to the lake, where I filmed some splashing around, before tossing it in the kayak and snapping some nature shots from the far reaches of the lake while paddling. 

Finally, simply for documentation purposes, I took it to the kitchen sink so I could snap some shots of it being splashed and submerged.

The case itself is made from a hard plastic shell, which fully encases the camera.  A rubber gasket runs along the inside of the seam, ensuring a water tight seal. 

The whole thing is held together by a large, plastic lock.  I loved the fact that this is really large and graspable, meaning it is easy to use, even when you are underwater, wearing gloves.

On the back of the case is a button panel, which gives you access to all of the major functions of the camera.  This worked really well, allowing you to switch between video and still photos mode, begin and stop recording, snap photos, zoom, toggle the light, and even playback recorded media.  The only thing you cannot do from here is power the camera on or off.  To do that, you will need to open the case, which I found to be a bit annoying.  The camera runs on AAA batteries, and does not last an awfully long time.  Since you cannot toggle the power on or off from within the case, however, means the camera is going to spend a lot of time turned on but not in use (even with the sleep mode active).  It would have been nice if the power could be toggled without opening the case.

The other thing I found was that the case made it extremely difficult to see the LCD screen in order to frame a shot, especially when the camera is wet or underwater.  This was a real problem.  I found myself eyeballing a shot and then taking the picture blind and hoping for the best.  This is no way to take important pictures.  An underwater case needs to do a better job of making the camera usable.  With no viewfinder and a hazy LCD screen, the case really does not do this camera any favors.

Despite these drawbacks, I was really impressed by how well this case protected the camera.  Like I said, it got splashed, dunked, drowned, and pretty much anything else you can do to attack a delicate electronic device with water, and it withstood all of this and probably would have taken plenty more.  Through it all, nary a drop of water made its way to the camera (except for when I opened the case to turn off the power). 

I was also impressed to find that if you do lose the camera while swimming, the case is designed to float, making it easy to find; and it even comes complete with a wrist strap, coated in rubber, to make sure the camera will not float far while you are out to sea (or swimming in the shallow end of the kiddie pool). 

I have always been intrigued by these underwater cases, and I thought DXG did a good job with this one.  I absolutely loved the flexibility it gave me to take photos and video from positions and angles I never could have reached with a camera alone: in the water, underwater, and ever boating across the lake.  It handled it all without flinching.   Of course, the proof is in the pictures, so check out a few photos I took in and around the water.

What I Liked:

• Underwater, underwater, underwater
• Access to all controls
• Easy to access buttons and controls for use underwater

What Needs Improvement:

• Can’t toggle power while in the case
• LCD screen is difficult to use while in the case

Where To Buy: DXG

Price: $149.99 (includes underwater case and camera)