[TRENDSETTER]Cutting-edge viewing, recording and shaving

A 10x optical / 200x digital zoom lens with image stabilization is only the first of the goodies in Canon’s Optura 300 MiniDV Camcorder. The camcorder uses a 2.0-megapixel CCD for high-resolution images. The model integrates an RGB Primary Color filter, similar to those found in professional camcorders, for accurate color gradations. The 2.5-inch LCD screen can be tilted or rotated 180 degrees. A selectable AF Frame lets you focus on your subject matter from three different points. Cost is 1.8 million won ($1,530).

Sony takes the lead in 5-megapixel super-thin digital cameras with the DSC-T1. The newest addition to the company’s Cybershot line, the camera’s stainless steel body measures 91 mm (3.6 inches) by 60 mm by 21 mm and weighs 155 grams (5.5 oz.). The model has a 2.5-inch TFT hybrid LCD screen.
Inside the body is Sony’s latest real imaging processor. Users can record videos with sound. A Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar lens operates within the camera body rather than extending out. Best of all, the camera is available now in Japan and Korea, with 2004 release dates elsewhere. Cost is 799,000 won.

Panasonic’s ES8093 is billed as offering “the world’s most flexible pivoting head.” This electric shaver has a 3-level pivot action selector for a variety of shaving modes. The triple-blade system has two foils and a center slit blade to catch longer hairs. The ergonomic design is fully waterproof and works under wet and dry conditions. The shaver is powered by a 13,000 RPM linear motor drive. Cost is 181,000 won.

Just when camera phones have gotten popular, another jump in technology comes around. LG’s SV130 and KV1300 camcorder phones are armed with 96 megabytes of memory. These IMT-2000 phones record up to an hour of video. The swivel design of the lens allows users to record themselves.
Users can download and shuffle-play various video-on-demand content. The phone supports multimedia messaging services, has built-in stereo sound and includes a wireless infrared ray communication port. The battery allows up to 200 hours of standby time.
At 92 mm by 49 mm by 23.1 mm, this camcorder phone (and others like it) is bulky, but given time, the designs are sure to become more streamlined. Cost is 500,000 won.

JVC’s latest widescreen plasma display, PD-42DX, makes use of the company’s digital image scaling technology. This system works with a technology called Super DigiPure, which adjusts contour details for crisp lettering and clear edges in sports programs. The viewing panel uses a gamma control plasma driver to make images brighter and viewable even when another light is turned on in the room.
As for sound, the PD-42DX comes with subwoofers for thunderous bass output, slim Direct Drive Stick speakers and cinema surround sound. Cost is 8.9 million won.

by Joe Yong-hee