In addition to still images, the FinePix 40i captures 10 frames per second of AVI video with sound, with a resolution of 320x240. With the included 16MB SmartMedia card, you can shoot up to 90 seconds of video; upgrading to a 64MB card lets you capture some 6 minutes of video. You'll probably want to upgrade the provided 16MB card anyway, since it holds only nine pictures at the highest resolution or two to four MP3 files on average (MP3 file sizes vary dramatically according to bit rates and song duration). Because Fujifilm needed SmartMedia's slimmer profile for this minimarvel, you're currently limited to its 128MB maximum capacity. (CompactFlash offers solid-state capacities of 320MB and miniplatter microdrives that can hold up to 1GB.)
But before you worry too much about how many MP3s you can fit in the FinePix 40i, consider this: It ain't called the "FineSong 40i." Although audio quality is decent, with good range and volume, getting MP3s onto the unit can be a real hassle. While most other hybrid camera/player devices let you simply drag tracks onto the media with a reader or PC Card adapter, the FinePix 40i requires you to use RealNetworks' Jukebox software.
Before you can play them on the FinePix 40i, MP3s must be "registered" to your SmartMedia's unique ID as part of a copyright-protection scheme. This prevents files from being copied from the SmartMedia card to another device, and, like most copy-protection setups, it can be a real pain. On top of this, the FinePix 40i's elaborate software-based transfer system frequently rejected our test MP3s, citing a variety of incompatibilities. Sometimes the problem was as simple as an unsupported bit rate, but often it was cryptically described and we had no choice but to abandon the track.
These audio hang-ups are unfortunate, because though the earbud headphones provided with the FinePix 40i are only passable, the device ships with a sophisticated in-line audio remote that not only controls volume but also forwards tracks and sets separate bass and treble levels. The remote also doubles as a remote trigger for the camera.
The camera features and generous package (a rechargeable battery and charger are included) offered with the FinePix 40i make it easy to recommend if you're a shutterbug first and foremost. But if music matters to you, take a look at the other hybrid options available, or consider a standalone MP3 player before making your choice.
Fujifilm FinePix 40i
Company:Hanimex Australia
Ph: Sydney 9466 2900 Regional & National 1800 226 355
Price: AU$1,398
Rating:
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