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General discussion

Vupoint 8MP MSX400

Nov 12, 2004 3:41AM PST

I've tired of not having a camera when I'm out with friends, so I?m looking for my first digital camera, and want something at 3MP or so but quite compact. The review of the Dimage X50 was very helpful, and although it?s my first choice, I would like to keep it under $250, knowing I still need to buy memory.

I looked at the new Vupoint MSX400 at Overstock.com and rather liked the stated features, including use as a PC video camera (which I don?t yet have). I held off because of the Nov 9 Buzz report about it here on CNET. I realize it's too inexpensive to be a true 8MP, probably only 4MP as the model number implies. I think that would still meet my needs if it takes anything near decent pictures. No optical zoom, but the $190.50 price including shipping would be great. That?s over $100 less than the Dimage X50. (FYI - the low price is because my credit card co. just blasted all of it?s business cardholders with a 6 month, no-strings, free Gold Club membership at Overstock.com. I've never shopped there before, but this will give me a good discount, plus more when I buy two, one for a holiday gift.)

I'm wondering if this bargain would actually meet my modest needs. Vupoint has other models that have been out longer, so I?m hoping to hear if they have a reputation for producing junk. My other concern would be the camera?s internal extrapolation program that takes a 4MP shot up to 8MP. Does it unnecessarily doubles the size of every file automatically, thereby using up my memory too quickly, or can I elect not to do that?

Thanks for any insight you can provide!

Sharp Editor

Discussion is locked

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If a deal is too good to be true, it usually is...
Nov 12, 2004 4:50AM PST

I checked the mfg's site. They didn't even show this model. If you are serious about a camera, get a known brand. Don't be tempted to think you can get a combination still and video camera. Still cameras make poor video cameras, and vice-versa.

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Re: Vupoint 8MP MSX400
Nov 12, 2004 7:20AM PST

The VuPoint 8MP MSX400 has been discontinued by VuPoint. They no longer offer it for sale.

And from all indications, they offer no warranty and no repair on the units currently being sold.

http://www.vupointsolutions.com/


The advertising for this camera is misleading and borders on fraud.

It is rated 8MP interpolated - meaning it is either a 2 or 4 megapixel camera.

The hipe in the ads say:
"The VuPoint boasts an aluminum, shock-proof body, making it incredibly durable"
The specifications say it is made of plastic.

The hipe in the ads say:
"The VuPoint features an advanced, long lasting, rechargeable Lithium Ion battery"
The specifications say it comes with one AAA alkaline battery.

......

The VuPoint DSC85 would be a good buy at $29.95

......

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Follow-Up
Nov 12, 2004 11:55AM PST
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Re: Follow-Up
Nov 13, 2004 1:42PM PST

Thanks snapshot2 for your research and follow-up. You helped me save valuable time, and prevented a disappointing purchase!

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Re: Vupoint 8MP MSX400
Nov 28, 2004 4:23AM PST

I have unfortunately purchased one of these cameras, and want to know how I can get my $350.00 back. What a rip off.

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It has a 4MP sensor
Jan 17, 2005 4:42AM PST

It has a 4.2 MP CCD sensor, effective is probably about 3.8 MP (the third lowest resolution).

From http://www.vupointsolutions.com

1/2.5" CCD 4.23 Mega Pixels