The HX9v suffers from a problem shared by all small cameras with 16 megapixel sensors.
People expect 16 megalpixels to show more detail but it actually results in less detail due to noise and noise reduction firmware.
(Many small 14 megapixel cameras have the same problem.)
Too many pixels on a too small sensor assembly.
Too many pixels results in too much noise.
The camera makers use noise reduction firmware in the camera.
It is too agressive and also removes the fine detail from the image.
Here is a discussion on the subject with sample photos:
http://forums.dpreview.com/forums/readflat.asp?forum=1009&thread=38886674&page=1
The lesson we learn is, look for a small camera with 12 or less megapixels.
Looking to purchase this camera, looking for pro and cons frrom current users.

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