Digi Scoping Camera

[Marcus Conway - ebirder]

Hello, I have a dilemma.

I am about to buy a camera to digiscope with my kowa scope. I am unsure whether to buy a nikon 4500 or Nikon DSLR (D50) for digiscoping. If the DSLR produces the same quality of pics then I will get that as It has more scope for longer term use. However how does it cimpore with the compact from the view point of digiscoping?

Thanks

Marcus

[PaulK]

I have been using the 4500 for nearly 2 years now and have found no problems with that and the picture quality is fine. A friend of mine went from the 4500 to a DSLR and has regretted it ever since. Also I think the 4500 has gone down in price in some places but it has been discontinued and it is hard to find accessories. Don't try Jessops the camera is not available there anymore. When buying something like this it is all down to personal preferance. If possible try before you buy.

[Marcus Conway - ebirder]

Thanks Paul.

Do you know if there is there a more recent camera than the Nikon 4500?

[Neil]

If you have a look a Andy's Digiscoping forum there has been a lot of discussion on newer cameras being used. The major manufacturers have just announced new models in time for the big PMA show in Orlando, Florida and you can see info at
http://www.dpreview.com/
Neil.

[christineredgate]

The 4500 is on sale at Wilkinson cameras.They say that these are definitelty the last of the bunch.

[iporali]

Hello, I have a dilemma.

I am about to buy a camera to digiscope with my kowa scope. I am unsure whether to buy a nikon 4500 or Nikon DSLR (D50) for digiscoping. If the DSLR produces the same quality of pics then I will get that as It has more scope for longer term use. However how does it cimpore with the compact from the view point of digiscoping?

Hi Jimmy,

I would say your non-ED scope is the weakest link in digiscoping and IMO a DSLR does not give any advantage over a point-and-shoot compact. And as I have said since 2004: please, don't waste your money on the ancient CP4500. Almost any modern digicam is faster, has a better battery life, focuses more accurately and has a better display. The three good things in the 4500 are 1) filter threads, 2) swivel body and 3) great macro performance - and that is not much, if you ask me.

See here http://www.kowa-prominar.ne.jp/digisco/item/index.htm
for Kowa's selection of digiscoping accessories. The pages are in Japanese and I am not sure about their availability in other markets. The Sony W7 would IMO be a very good candidate for digiscoping and a couple of other cameras are shown to work well with the Kowa scope and adapters.

Best of luck,

Ilkka