Review: Microsoft Lifecam Cinema HD
This is a webcam that’s ahead of its time. Not because it has quality that’ll make your face melt, but because it’s capabilities surpass that of the software its intended to be used with. Common applications include Windows Live Messenger, Skype and other messenging clients.
The LifeCam Cinema HD is capable of 720p video at 30 frames per second, unfortunately most messenging clients still in 2010, only support the old 4:3 aspect ratio. With Skype’s announcement of 720p capable TV’s and Windows Live Wave 4, lets hope these apps realize the camera technology that’s available today. With that said, this camera is really an investment for the future.
The applications where you can take advantage of the higher quality of this webcam over your standard integrated laptop webcam is live streaming applications like uStream or to record video locally. For those concerned the base looks a little awkward and may not fit your setup, fear not, the stand is actually flexible, with the front lip clipping on the front of your screen, while the flexible leg bends to curve over the back of your screen to make a snug, secure fit.
There is some adjustability of the tilt and pan of the camera via the LifeCam software, but the more noticeable adjustments will be in the area of white balance, focus, brightness, contrast etc. Of course there’s the auto settings, but you should spend the time to experiment with this as the results of better picture quality are well worth it.
Overall I’m really happy with this camera, it has now replaced a Logitech Orb that I had been previously using. I picked mine up at JB Hi-Fi for A$126, but look around, you may find a better deal.
Review: Xbox Live Update Preview: Zune, Facebook, Twitter
Yesterday was a big day for the Xbox, the arrival of one of the best (if not the best) racing game available – Forza 3, as well as the launch of the Xbox Live Update Preview Program.
If you applied, like me, then you may have received an email acceptance into the preview program.
Available in the update for Australia is Facebook and Twitter integration as well as the brand new Zune Video Marketplace.
Xbox Live Update – Zune Marketplace
Other than the Zune desktop software, this is Zune’s official introduction into Australia. The Zune Video Marketplace offers movies in 1080p that start streaming instantly. It’s recommended you have least 4mbps to get HD, given how Australia’s broadband speeds are tiered, 1.5Mb will be too slow, so your going to want at least an 8Mb connection.
Quality
I hired the movie Uninvited in HD to review the quality and was very happy. Let me precursor this with the fact I’m on an ADSL2+ connection. The movie did in fact start straight away, with lower quality, then after about 30 seconds, the quality kicked in and the video was indeed great quality high definition. Now this is still obvious a lower quality bitrate than Blu-ray, so for those HD purists out there, this may not be for you. But for me this is a great service.
With HD using a large amount of data, you may be concerned about your download quota being chewed up by renting movies. A number of ISPs will offer Zune Video Marketplace content unmetered. An official list has not yet been released, but expect most to do this, it’s the only feasible way this service will work for Australian consumers.
Catalogue
Lets make no questions about this, the current movie selection is horrible. It is important to keep in mind this isn’t a product that’s officially launched, so by the time this goes public, I’d hope the catalogue of movies to choose from is dramatically improved.
Australian Pricing
New titles
Old titles
Rent HD – 420 Microsoft Points (A$6.93)
Rent SD – 360 Microsoft Points (A$5.94) Rent SD – 300 Microsoft Points (A$4.95)
Xbox Live Update – Facebook
Xbox Live Update – Twitter
Overall
In terms of updates, this is a good one that actually ads a lot of functionality. As for Last.fm, there’s no sign of it.
The new Zune Video Marketplace with a better catalogue will become my movie rental service of choice. Compared to Blockbuster On Demand available through the TiVo, the Zune rentals are in HD and millions of Australians already have their credit card with Microsoft, lowering the barrier to entry. SD videos on Zune are 4 cents cheaper at $5.94 compared to $4.95 on Blockbuster or iTunes.
The social features are nice, but without the messenger kit add-on, i don’t see people contributing content via the Xbox much. It’s $29.99, will this be the new must-have accessory ?
Review: Wii Sports Resort + Wii Motion Plus
Using my Wii as a dust collector was getting old, so I decided to purchase a copy of Wii Sports Resort. This game includes one Wii Motion Plus – the add-on module that increases the accuracy of your movements.
Something worth remembering is that to play Wii Sports Resort with friends, you’ll need a Wii Motion Plus for every controller you wish to use. Lets face it, the Wii’s main use is with friends, so if your buying this game, plan on another $35 for a 2nd Motion Plus.
While the Motion Plus is just an add on module to the end of your controller, it comes with a silicon surround. This fits over your entire controller, adding a serious amount of squidgy padding at the top. I can only imagine this is a response to those slippery fingered people who’ve put controls through their expensive TV screen.
The Good
- Accuracy is improved with Wii Motion Plus
- Plenty of new sports to play (some require the nun chuck)
- Wii sports games are extended (i.e. bowling features 100-pin)
The Bad
- Wii Sports Resort requires Motion Plus.
- Can get expensive, especially if you want to play 4 players.
Overall
I picked up Wii Sports Resort for $79. Add another $35 for the additional Wii Motion Plus and the experience cost me $114. That’s pretty pricey for a Wii game. Admittedly it’s not as much as you’ll fork over for plastic musical instruments.
Overall I’ve really had fun playing Wii Sports Resort. now against 3 separate opponents. Reports are the game is selling well and that doesn’t surprise me, given its an extension of what the Wii excels at – fun, multi-player gaming.
Vidzone Video Review
VidZone is a new service on the PS3, containing thousands of video clips streaming for free. Check out my video review.