Expert: John Oliverio - 6/14/2004

Question
John, thanks for your input. Its sounds like the CD camera is not the way for me to go and I appreciate the advice. However, I now have a followup question. You see, I've been focusing on Sony cameras because I have a Sony Visa card with which I've accumulated a bunch of rewards points. And the two models I mentioned in my previous question I found listed in the online Sony rewards catalog and I believe I have enough points to get either one for free. However, I'm now told I'm able to use my rewards points toward the purchase of ANY Sony digital camera (even if it's not listed in the rewards catalog). And I believe there's a newer 5.1 mexapixel model (DSCP93?) I'm assuming would be better than the DSCP73. I've also read about the DSC-F828, which I know costs significantly more but I'd be willing to absorb the extra cost if it's worth it. So here's what I'd like to know. Would it be better for me to get the 5.1 mexapixel DSCP model or the DSC-F828? With the reward points I have I'd probably be able to pay little or nothing for the DSCP model while for the DSC-F828 I've heard street prices in the eight hundred ballpark so I'm figuring I'd probably have to pay perhaps $400 or so (plus my accumulated points). While I've heard some criticisms of the DSC-F828, I'm more of an amateur than a pro so this camera's drawbacks may not have as much impact on me. And I don't mind paying the extra bucks for the DSC-F828 if this model's worth it. So any advice you can give me here would be very helpful. Thanks!
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Followup To
Question -
I'm planning on buying a digital camera in the 3-5 megapixel range and have heard about a couple of Sony models: the DSCP73 and the MVC-CD350. My first question concerns whether Sony digital cameras are generally as good as other brands. If so, I'm wondering if the CD nature of the 350 makes it more or less attractive than the DSCP73. In other words, which is the better way to go? And, finally, if these are not the latest models within their classes, is it worth paying more for a newer version? Thanks for whatever insights you can provide!
Answer -
Evan,

I'm personally not fond of the Sony CD cameras.  The only good reason I can think of for using one is if you've got to give the CDs away.  The reason I don't like them is that compared to other cameras they are relatively delicate.  They are also slower.

Generally speaking I think Sony is right up there with the other big makers.  The 73 is a new model but I don't know about the 350.  I don't carry the CD versions in my shop.

John

Answer
Evan,

Well, the 828 is a much higher-end camera.  But that doesn't make it the right one for you. The 73 and 93 are pocket cameras.  The kind of thing you can take anywhere.  The 828 is a very big camera.  Intended for the hobbiest or pro.

John