We've read it all too many times. We've seen it many times. All these Do-It-All cameras, 6 in 1 Digicams, Gazillion-in-one cameras, etc. But can they really do it all or better to buy separate gadgets with specifics functions in mind. The essence of these gadgets is that, can it do all its stated functions adequately? Recently, I was asked by MAG.ecbuyph.com Editor to do a review of Digilife's DDV-S670. And now, I'll be bringing in the news, this is one is worth the look and worth the feel. By and large, DDV-S670 unit passed my standards with flying megapixel colors.

Yeah I know you have your mobile phone camera ready for those handy shots, but DDV-S670 is equipped with 3.1 MegaPixel Advanced "4T" CMOS Sensor capable of producing 3 Megapixel still shots and up to 6.6. Megapixel interpolated still pics. Now that's huge. I did my math, this resolution is more than 20 times larger compared to your cellphone camera. Handy as it is, DDV-S670 puts new meaning to handy shots because now, you’ll be getting sharp and crisp images. It uses MPEG4 Technology. MPEG4 what? A technology that lets the camera capture higher quality videos at less file size. Result: DDV-S670's captured videos is above satisfactory. With prices of Memory Cards going down, user can buy a couple of cards, and capture large amount of videos. (and voice, still pictures and music).

Yes Music. Can we live without music? I think no. I say no. So pack the MMCs and SDs with Bamboo's Power Vox and Kitchie Nadal's crooning and enjoy music at commute, at work, at home, wherever! Enjoy music as you please. Memory slot can take capacity up to 512 MB. FYI, a 256 MB card can store about 60 MP3 songs. I don't know about you, but 60 songs would really enlighten and cover my day's boring times. Thinking of buying MP3 Player, say worth P3000.00 (55USD)? Hmmmm... Think twice. You may just want to add up and get Digilife's DDV-S670.

DDV-S670 does not have this "cheapo-crammy" look and feel at all. Does not feel like a toy like some DVs. Stylishly designed, made of aluminum shell, you wouldn't be ashamed to show off. In fact, you will show-off. And why not? Just see the user interface, with brightly colored LCD graphics. Just flip the LCD at different angles. With its 270 degree swiveling LCD, you can even take a decent self portrait. Large 2.0" LCD is larger than its class so previewing captured images and specially videos is quite enjoying. Can even act as AVI video player. I was not quite thrilled watching videos on a 2" screen, so I used TV out function and watch captured video on my flat TV. It has a built-in 16MB memory so shoot right-away, straight out of the box. Yet again, I am sure 16MB is not enough for you too, the memory is expandable, load up SD or MMC memory flash cards. Pretty usable 8X digital zoom but no optical zoom though. Can be used as flash drive and card reader, for file transfer and back up. It is powered by Li-Ion rechargeable battery. No need to endlessly buy AA batteries over at Seven-Eleven. Special and licensed photo video apps are bundled along with others quality accessories.

Others may not even care (I don't), but this unit is a full functioning Voice Recorder too therefore quite useful at work or in school. And, it can serve as a Webcam too. So, if you will be selling "Danggit" (read: Cebu Philippines' Dried Fish) to an American Buyer, you can have them quality checked the Danggit visually. Only, they wouldn't be able to smell the danggit. Unlucky them or maybe lucky them.

This model has its downside too that is worth mentioning. Almost always, this would be available on a 6 months or less warranty from stores. Uses Li-Ion rechargeable Battery, and as we know, these types eventually die-out in recharging capability after years of use. Everything dies anyway, just hope you can outlast your battery. Enough with morbid thoughts. My guess is, the Li-Ion Battery is locally available. And, when the sun is shining like crazy, you are outdoors, you're standing right on the earth's equator, the LCD is a little bit unreadable. Some other minor operational nuisance will always be around but what it offers over-all, will make you forget some. I'll put my head with this review, by saying, this month of June 2005, the Digilife's DDV-S670 DV Camera is one of the best tapeless DV Camera available in the Philippines today. Go look for one! It’s Easy!

(If you happen to see a better one, tell me and please spare my head.)


By ALEXiS - 2005-06-06