If you've been holding off on getting a GoPro HD HERO actioncam ... well, you were right to wait. Today, the California-based company announced the release of its HD HERO2 camera, which is claimed to be "2X as Powerful in Every Way." More specifically, it has an 11-megapixel image sensor (as opposed to the regular camera's 5 mp), along with a new processor that is said to be twice as fast, and a redesigned lens that GoPro claims is both twice as sharp and capable of a complete 170-degree field of view even in widescreen 1080p mode. There's also good news for consumers who think the existing HD HERO is all the camera they need.
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Along with the upgrades already mentioned, the HERO2's LCD interface has been redesigned to be much easier to use. This is definitely an improvement, as the previous version really couldn't be understood without the instruction sheet handy - although the optional add-on LCD screen module helps in that regard.
The new camera also has a 3.5 mm stereo external mic input (although it can only be accessed with the waterproof housing removed), better low-light performance, and can capture up to ten still images per second in "burst mode." It can also support time-lapse video, recording one frame every 0.5 seconds, if a Class 10 SD card is used.
The HD HERO2 is also compatible with GoPro's yet-to-be-released Wi-Fi BacPac and Wi-Fi Remote. The WiFi BacPac will allow the camera to be remotely controlled via a smartphone or tablet, with the waterproof WiFi remote acting as a dedicated alternative to such mobile devices - it will additionally be able to control up to 50 HERO2s at once. The new WiFi gear will also work with the basic HD HERO, although the HERO2 will be unique in being able to broadcast streaming video using the BacPac.
Speaking of the original HD HERO ... the arrival of the HERO2 has driven its price down. Instead of the previous US$259.99 - $299.99 (depending on the package), it will now sell for $199.99 - $239.99.
The HD HERO2 comes in Outdoor, Motorsports and Surf packages, all of which are available from GoPro for US$299.99. The video below gives an indication of its image quality - watch it in 1080p for the full effect.
heres is the promo video...
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This is just such an amazing camera for the price .Now that Go Pro has paired up with software company Cine Form (GoPro CineForm Studio™) for it's 3D camera , I reckon we can expect alot more developments like the HD Hero 2 ....that's my crystal ball on it .Canon has just announced an amazing new 1DX and Nikon is sure to follow , the Go pro will just sit back and ride the wake on the success of this new technology at a fraction of the price.
(Disclaimer nothing to do with Go Pro)
just got a new 960 gopro after loosing my sd gopro, can see one of these bad boys under the Christmas this year, considering how good the old hd's are they have made something that i can see is alot better but still affordable no wonder everyone has one, can't wait till Christmas
Jarryd
Wowee!!! If I save up my pennies maybe Towball will subsidise my purchase of one of these (all I do is take photos of him lol)
i JUST WANT ONE!!!!!!!!!!!!
C$%t.....I literally just bought one.....been umming and arring about it for ages and finally just bought one and bam.....gopro 2 is out .....bummed now.
apparently the low light claim is a bit false
but everything else claimed works as advertised
the ability to dial in 3 looks - wide / med wide and med is very cool
The timelapse ability of these cams is fantastic if you have basic skills to build frames of video from jpegs in post
check out www.philipbloom.net comments on the camera - and bookmark that site - its a good one.
And if you want to make a steady cam for you land based shooting - try my little home made gadget here:http://www.reflexfilmsaustralia.com.au/Reflex_Films_Australia/REFLEX_FILM_SCHOOL.html
check out episode 1 for the steadicam project -it works a treat
ah farrking balls...I literally just bought one too...how good does the new one look.
anyone want to buy a brand new as yet un-used gopro
i JUST WANT ONE!!!!!!!!!!!!
I JUST GOT ONE!!!!! $350 delivered! Stoked, cant wait to get it out on the water!
Also Gopro have a new Underwater lens attachment coming out in early 2012, this is a Gopro product not after market, but in my opinion, some of the after market products like BlurFix are still better and can use filters, Nd's and Polarizers as well as retain the dome lens as secondary water ingress protection.
Expect reflection from the shiny screws on the GoPro attachment.
For $399 you can get it from the guy you return it to if you have a problem, the guy who you share the local waves with and maybe your kids go to school with his kids. With a handshake thrown in for free. Just a thought.
Longboards Scarborough should have a few of the new models any day now. First to arrive will be the Outdoor model, Motor sport mid Nov and Surf late Nov. The accessories of the current model are compatible with the new so each model can be setup for whatever application you may have.
Ours arrived in store a few days ago and got a new lot in today so they should be in every store that stocks Gopro this week i would say!!! how good are they by the way!!!
Mounts and accessories seem the same as the older model so either an FCS plug in the board or the stick on pad.