Samson has been very successful in the audio-gear business – “so let’s take our knowledge of sound and make the foray into video,” cheered the engineers, as they hit on a eureka moment. And jump on the bandwagon they did, with the new Zoom Q3 Handy Video Recorder, which sports a pair of stereo condenser mics in an X/Y configuration for accurate aural imaging. Although it does not capture video in HD like the latest Flip recorders, it does generate great sounding audio, which is a definite plus when video recording a musical performance or rehearsal (bootleggers rejoice). I bought mine for interviews, and I must say it does sound good when recording in audio-only mode as a 96kHz/24-bit WAV file (several lesser rates of resolution may be selected as well). The audio format for video ranges from MP3 to a max of 48kHz/24-bit, but is impressive nonetheless for a flash video device.

Recordings are stored on a removable 2 GB SD card, yet will accept those as large as 32 GB, allowing for tracking times of up to 16 hours when in MP3 mode. For those without a card reader, the built in USB connector will offload files to both Windows and Mac platforms. Other features include a TV output that allows video to be broadcast to an external display, a headphone/line jack, and the ability to accept an A/C adapter.

Video is laid down at 30 frames per second with 640 X 480 resolution, which can be reviewed on its relatively large 2.4-inch screen. The Q3 gets its juice from standard AA batteries, or NiMH rechargeables. The lens is fixed focus affair, with a 2X digital zoom, and a tripod mount allows for wobble-free video.
Now, if they would just release an HD version, Samson would become Master of the Pocket-Video Universe.

Cost: $249