Review of DVRs Cansonic Z1 Dual (GPS) and Z1 Zoom (GPS) - two “eyes” are better than one
If you prefer standard, uncomplicated recorders "zanedorogo" - welcome to the Chinese manufacturers. If you are attracted to non-standard, often unparalleled solutions, your choice is the products of Taiwanese or Korean companies. I had a chance to meet at once with two devices of the famous Cansonic brand , originally from Taiwan. In 2013, local developers released conceptually unique solutions - recorders with two cameras in one package. Moreover, each "eye" could be rotated 180 degrees. By the way, no other developer has yet been able to offer anything like this.
What is the use of a pair of cameras? Cansonic asked two vectors. The first is the installation of identical lenses, we see this solution in the Cansonic Z1 Dual. Whatever one may say, this is an ideal solution for transport in the field of passenger transport: one camera looks at the road, and the second one carefully records what is happening in the cabin. Model Z1 Dual, as well as its predecessor modifications, you probably have repeatedly seen in a taxi, long-distance "beads". For ordinary drivers, another possibility of a pair of identical cameras is more interesting - each has a viewing angle diagonally 150 degrees, which means you can get 300 degrees in total! So that none of the “riders” will not be able to jump out of nowhere under your wheels. Side vision at Z1 - excellent.
Another vector is the installation along with the usual so-called zoom lens, which is implemented in the Cansonic Z1 Zoom. One camera removes a common stop, while the second allows you to see the state numbers of cars at a distance of 40-50 meters. All right - 40-50 meters. It sounds like a fantasy, because even the most expensive top recorders at best provide 15-20 meters of readability of state numbers, and then in ideal lighting conditions. But the fact is a fact. With its capabilities, the Cansonic models have not at all “biting” prices. "Zoom" costs 14 900 rubles, and "Dul" will cost 13 900 rubles. Versions of devices without GPS are estimated at 12,900 and 11,900 rubles, respectively. Better, of course, an option with a navigation receiver, then you will be able to fix the speed and route.
Models are delivered in white boxes, packaging in some way is made according to the “nested dolls” principle. Inside there is another lockable box with the entire package. The registrar is in a hollow at the top. All models have the same configuration, which includes:
● mounted on 3M adhesive tape;
● mounted on a vacuum suction cup;
● mount with a GPS antenna (it is not in models without GPS);
● cigarette lighter power adapter;
● miniUSB cable for connecting the recorder to a computer;
● spare areas of 3M adhesive tape;
● instruction;
● warranty card.
I note that both the miniUSB cable and the power cable contain ferrite rings, which allow you to avoid interference with the radio. It would seem a cheap thing, but in 99% of cases, the manufacturers of registrars for some reason prefer to ignore it.
In terms of design, both models are identical. Only the inscriptions on optics are different. The recorders are made in lengthened cases, on their sides are swivel units with cameras. Each camera can be rotated 180 degrees.
Cansonic Z1 are equipped with a 2-inch screen (decent picture quality, the backlight is bright). By default, the display is divided into two parts and shows the image from both cameras. But by pressing a button you can switch to any of them.
On each side of the screen there are three buttons, they are quite large, have a clear course and a distinct designation. Next to them - light indicators of the device. The buttons on the right serve to turn off the display and microphone, as well as to switch the contents on the screen. The buttons on the left to change the recording mode, call the menu, instant photo, protect the current segment of the video from overwriting.
On the reverse side of the recorders - a panel with a black plate. In general, the devices make a good impression, they are perfectly assembled, the cases are not easily soiled. The turning parts do not "shake" even when driving on a bad road, nothing is spinning itself.
At the top there are connectors - power, miniUSB port for GPS-module (you can buy it separately if you have a model without GPS), AV-output (for an external monitor). Here is the start / stop recording button.
Power / sync connector non-standard, 10-pin. So it’s better not to lose the cable, finding a new one is problematic (although all the accessories are available for sale on the Cansonic official website)
At the bottom there is a slot for a microSD memory card (from 4 to 64 GB, class 10 and higher) and a power button.
The devices are quite thin, you can easily hide them behind the rear-view mirror.
As already mentioned, there are three holders in the kit - one on the suction cup and two on the 3M velcro (with and without GPS). Often, mounting on the vacuum suction cup is used to “tune in” and find the best place to install the camera on the windshield. After that, the holder for 3M adhesive tape is mounted “for centuries”. Unlike a vacuum sucker, such a mount will not fall off at the next pothole, it does not need to wait for the cabin to warm up (true when buying a recorder in the winter), scrupulously wipe the glass in the installation area for the best “grip”.
Conveniently, there are two 3M brackets. This is useful if you have two cars, for example, your own and service one. But still keep in mind that GPS is built into only one (the one with the miniUSB cable).
All types of complete mounts swivel. The only pity is that the power is supplied to the device itself, and not to the bracket, that is, you need to spend time connecting / disconnecting the wires - the power supply and the GPS module (if you use it).
But there is an interesting feature - to instantly remove the camera from the mount, you just need to pull the case down. And on the glass there will be only a platform with a hinge. Simple and convenient! It is strange that I have not seen such a successful solution with other manufacturers.
The power cable is long, you can easily place it “invisibly”, the location of connectors on the upper edge of the device in this regard is also convenient.
Both Cansonic Z1 Dual cameras are wide-angle (viewing angle of 150 degrees) and can capture an entire cabin into the frame. But keep in mind that the left is better focused on the driver, and the right - on the passenger. People in the back row are equally well visible from both cameras.
Model Z1 Zoom on the left has a wide-angle lens (viewing angle of 140 degrees), and on the right - a long-focus lens. That is, the left can be quickly turned, for example, to shoot a conversation with a traffic police officer. You can also shoot a salon with it. But with the help of the right there is no - he "sees" too close.
All cameras are equipped with 6-lens glass optics.
The menu of both models is identical. To understand it is easy, even without reading the instructions. In particular, you can select the resolution and shooting mode, video quality, length of segments, exposure, color balance, enable or disable stamps (additional information that is superimposed on the image).
As already mentioned, the module is built into the bracket and is connected to the recorder via a separate connector. This is the case if you bought a model with GPS support, of course. If for some reason without, the navigator can be purchased separately.
GPS helps to fix your speed (useful in case of controversial situations) and route. This data can be displayed directly on the video. Another advantage of having GPS is time synchronization at power on.
Many registrars of competitors are able to notify about speed cameras, Cansonic does not have this option yet. However, the development of the function is in full swing.
Both models are equipped with built-in 700 mAh batteries. They are enough for 2 hours of battery life, which is quite a lot.
All cameras are equipped with the latest high-performance chipsets, HDR CMOS matrices and support CAnsonia Anti-Shake proprietary image stabilization feature. Both models of recorders provide good quality shooting. Road signs, markings, numbers, adjacent lanes - everything is clearly visible. The color rendition is natural. When recording at night, noises / artifacts are noticeable.
Cansonic Z1 Zoom, as already noted, is equipped with cameras with different focal lengths. This technology, by the way, is now very popular in top smartphones (for example, iPhone 7+). It allows you to make high-quality zoom without using a massive optical system. In Cansonic, this option is called “binoculars”, and for good reason - the numbers can be viewed at a distance of up to 40 meters (and very clearly, stabilization does its job). No other classic DVR can offer this right now, even the most expensive one. At the same time, you also have the opportunity to perfectly see the numbers (from the right camera) and the overall situation on the road (left wide-angle camera). For lovers of the exotic, I’ll give you a curious option: turn the camera around ... Back! And what, in this case, the interior does not get into the frame, and the zoom lens purposefully removes what is happening behind the car with high clarity.
The Cansonic Z1 Dual model has two identical cameras with a wide viewing angle. One of them is useful for shooting what is happening in the cabin. The quality of the recording during the day is also good, especially considering that in essence each camera works in HD-resolution. I note that at night, the model still would not hurt HDR to reduce the exposure of state numbers.
Special thanks to my friend Cyril, who helped with the shooting, while my “iron horse” is not on the move.
Both recorder models by default write video in one file. The total resolution is 1920 x 1080 (Full HD) at 30 frames per second. If you write only one stream, the resolution will be 1280 x 720. The format of the videos is MOV, H.264 codec. A 3-minute segment (from two cameras) takes 300-350 MB.
Like many modern car recorders, models of the Z1 series are equipped with a motion sensor. It captures the impact, sudden braking, sudden changes in speed. Thanks to this, the device automatically protects the current segment of the video from being overwritten - all critical moments will be necessarily saved on the memory card.
There is an emergency recording button on the case. If it is important for you that the current video remains in an indelible area, just touch it.
DVRs Cansonic Z1 Zoom and Z1 Dual, though from Taiwan, but designed to take into account the peculiarities of work in Russia. And the weather here, as you know, is different. Models run without problems at temperatures from -20 ° C to + 60 ° C. Not ready to assert with certainty, but it is quite possible that instead of the usual, pre-conditional cold-resistant batteries are used.
Cansonic turned out to be a great line of video recorders with two cameras, which I can confidently recommend. Other advantages - convenient control, swivel bracket and lenses, support for capacious drives, simple installation and a minimum of wires in the cabin, high quality materials and assembly.
Disadvantages - non-standard power cable and the fact that it is not built into the plug, but it must be connected to the recorder.
I also remind you that both models are in versions with GPS support (the module is built into the bracket) and without. The first ones are not much more expensive, but you will receive a fixation of the route and speed, as well as synchronization of the date and time.
And now about the benefits of specific models. Cansonic Z1 Zoom is equipped with cameras with different focal lengths and therefore works like binoculars. License plates can be easily viewed at a distance of up to 40-50 meters, the model simply has no competitors in this regard.
If you work on a company car / bus (or you bring passengers on your car, there are now a lot of popular online services for this), take a look at the Cansonic Z1 Dual. The mere fact of video filming in the cabin "will call" inadequate passengers to behave decently. And for the driver, this is 100% proof of his actions and insurance against cheating. Conveniently, when both cameras are in the same building, there is no need to make a garden with two different video recordings or buy a model with a remote unit (this is much more “hemorrhoids” during installation and use). If you shoot the road with both cameras, then you will get an unrivaled viewing angle.
With all this, Cansonic offers attractive prices, especially on models without a GPS console. "Zoom" costs 14 900 rubles, and "Dual" will cost 13 900 rubles. Versions of devices without GPS are estimated at 12,900 and 11,900 rubles, respectively.
PS Especially for readers of Geektimes.ru on the site Cansonic.ru, with the purchase of any model, a discount of 1,500 rubles is available. To get it in the field "Comments to the order" when placing the order, enter the code word "Geektimes". The discount is valid for 10 days from the date of the review.
PPSPS Alexander Shub, the leading Russian expert in the field of video recorders, was with you. I remind the readers about the choice of registrars or other points on this topic, do not hesitate to contact me personally at schub.alexandr@yandex.ru.
What is the use of a pair of cameras? Cansonic asked two vectors. The first is the installation of identical lenses, we see this solution in the Cansonic Z1 Dual. Whatever one may say, this is an ideal solution for transport in the field of passenger transport: one camera looks at the road, and the second one carefully records what is happening in the cabin. Model Z1 Dual, as well as its predecessor modifications, you probably have repeatedly seen in a taxi, long-distance "beads". For ordinary drivers, another possibility of a pair of identical cameras is more interesting - each has a viewing angle diagonally 150 degrees, which means you can get 300 degrees in total! So that none of the “riders” will not be able to jump out of nowhere under your wheels. Side vision at Z1 - excellent.
Another vector is the installation along with the usual so-called zoom lens, which is implemented in the Cansonic Z1 Zoom. One camera removes a common stop, while the second allows you to see the state numbers of cars at a distance of 40-50 meters. All right - 40-50 meters. It sounds like a fantasy, because even the most expensive top recorders at best provide 15-20 meters of readability of state numbers, and then in ideal lighting conditions. But the fact is a fact. With its capabilities, the Cansonic models have not at all “biting” prices. "Zoom" costs 14 900 rubles, and "Dul" will cost 13 900 rubles. Versions of devices without GPS are estimated at 12,900 and 11,900 rubles, respectively. Better, of course, an option with a navigation receiver, then you will be able to fix the speed and route.
Packing and packaging
Models are delivered in white boxes, packaging in some way is made according to the “nested dolls” principle. Inside there is another lockable box with the entire package. The registrar is in a hollow at the top. All models have the same configuration, which includes:
● mounted on 3M adhesive tape;
● mounted on a vacuum suction cup;
● mount with a GPS antenna (it is not in models without GPS);
● cigarette lighter power adapter;
● miniUSB cable for connecting the recorder to a computer;
● spare areas of 3M adhesive tape;
● instruction;
● warranty card.
I note that both the miniUSB cable and the power cable contain ferrite rings, which allow you to avoid interference with the radio. It would seem a cheap thing, but in 99% of cases, the manufacturers of registrars for some reason prefer to ignore it.
Appearance
In terms of design, both models are identical. Only the inscriptions on optics are different. The recorders are made in lengthened cases, on their sides are swivel units with cameras. Each camera can be rotated 180 degrees.
Cansonic Z1 are equipped with a 2-inch screen (decent picture quality, the backlight is bright). By default, the display is divided into two parts and shows the image from both cameras. But by pressing a button you can switch to any of them.
On each side of the screen there are three buttons, they are quite large, have a clear course and a distinct designation. Next to them - light indicators of the device. The buttons on the right serve to turn off the display and microphone, as well as to switch the contents on the screen. The buttons on the left to change the recording mode, call the menu, instant photo, protect the current segment of the video from overwriting.
On the reverse side of the recorders - a panel with a black plate. In general, the devices make a good impression, they are perfectly assembled, the cases are not easily soiled. The turning parts do not "shake" even when driving on a bad road, nothing is spinning itself.
At the top there are connectors - power, miniUSB port for GPS-module (you can buy it separately if you have a model without GPS), AV-output (for an external monitor). Here is the start / stop recording button.
Power / sync connector non-standard, 10-pin. So it’s better not to lose the cable, finding a new one is problematic (although all the accessories are available for sale on the Cansonic official website)
At the bottom there is a slot for a microSD memory card (from 4 to 64 GB, class 10 and higher) and a power button.
The devices are quite thin, you can easily hide them behind the rear-view mirror.
Installation
As already mentioned, there are three holders in the kit - one on the suction cup and two on the 3M velcro (with and without GPS). Often, mounting on the vacuum suction cup is used to “tune in” and find the best place to install the camera on the windshield. After that, the holder for 3M adhesive tape is mounted “for centuries”. Unlike a vacuum sucker, such a mount will not fall off at the next pothole, it does not need to wait for the cabin to warm up (true when buying a recorder in the winter), scrupulously wipe the glass in the installation area for the best “grip”.
Conveniently, there are two 3M brackets. This is useful if you have two cars, for example, your own and service one. But still keep in mind that GPS is built into only one (the one with the miniUSB cable).
All types of complete mounts swivel. The only pity is that the power is supplied to the device itself, and not to the bracket, that is, you need to spend time connecting / disconnecting the wires - the power supply and the GPS module (if you use it).
But there is an interesting feature - to instantly remove the camera from the mount, you just need to pull the case down. And on the glass there will be only a platform with a hinge. Simple and convenient! It is strange that I have not seen such a successful solution with other manufacturers.
The power cable is long, you can easily place it “invisibly”, the location of connectors on the upper edge of the device in this regard is also convenient.
Cameras
Both Cansonic Z1 Dual cameras are wide-angle (viewing angle of 150 degrees) and can capture an entire cabin into the frame. But keep in mind that the left is better focused on the driver, and the right - on the passenger. People in the back row are equally well visible from both cameras.
Model Z1 Zoom on the left has a wide-angle lens (viewing angle of 140 degrees), and on the right - a long-focus lens. That is, the left can be quickly turned, for example, to shoot a conversation with a traffic police officer. You can also shoot a salon with it. But with the help of the right there is no - he "sees" too close.
All cameras are equipped with 6-lens glass optics.
Settings
The menu of both models is identical. To understand it is easy, even without reading the instructions. In particular, you can select the resolution and shooting mode, video quality, length of segments, exposure, color balance, enable or disable stamps (additional information that is superimposed on the image).
GPS module
As already mentioned, the module is built into the bracket and is connected to the recorder via a separate connector. This is the case if you bought a model with GPS support, of course. If for some reason without, the navigator can be purchased separately.
GPS helps to fix your speed (useful in case of controversial situations) and route. This data can be displayed directly on the video. Another advantage of having GPS is time synchronization at power on.
Many registrars of competitors are able to notify about speed cameras, Cansonic does not have this option yet. However, the development of the function is in full swing.
Battery
Both models are equipped with built-in 700 mAh batteries. They are enough for 2 hours of battery life, which is quite a lot.
Video quality and recording
All cameras are equipped with the latest high-performance chipsets, HDR CMOS matrices and support CAnsonia Anti-Shake proprietary image stabilization feature. Both models of recorders provide good quality shooting. Road signs, markings, numbers, adjacent lanes - everything is clearly visible. The color rendition is natural. When recording at night, noises / artifacts are noticeable.
Cansonic Z1 Zoom, as already noted, is equipped with cameras with different focal lengths. This technology, by the way, is now very popular in top smartphones (for example, iPhone 7+). It allows you to make high-quality zoom without using a massive optical system. In Cansonic, this option is called “binoculars”, and for good reason - the numbers can be viewed at a distance of up to 40 meters (and very clearly, stabilization does its job). No other classic DVR can offer this right now, even the most expensive one. At the same time, you also have the opportunity to perfectly see the numbers (from the right camera) and the overall situation on the road (left wide-angle camera). For lovers of the exotic, I’ll give you a curious option: turn the camera around ... Back! And what, in this case, the interior does not get into the frame, and the zoom lens purposefully removes what is happening behind the car with high clarity.
The Cansonic Z1 Dual model has two identical cameras with a wide viewing angle. One of them is useful for shooting what is happening in the cabin. The quality of the recording during the day is also good, especially considering that in essence each camera works in HD-resolution. I note that at night, the model still would not hurt HDR to reduce the exposure of state numbers.
Special thanks to my friend Cyril, who helped with the shooting, while my “iron horse” is not on the move.
Both recorder models by default write video in one file. The total resolution is 1920 x 1080 (Full HD) at 30 frames per second. If you write only one stream, the resolution will be 1280 x 720. The format of the videos is MOV, H.264 codec. A 3-minute segment (from two cameras) takes 300-350 MB.
Like many modern car recorders, models of the Z1 series are equipped with a motion sensor. It captures the impact, sudden braking, sudden changes in speed. Thanks to this, the device automatically protects the current segment of the video from being overwritten - all critical moments will be necessarily saved on the memory card.
There is an emergency recording button on the case. If it is important for you that the current video remains in an indelible area, just touch it.
Other
DVRs Cansonic Z1 Zoom and Z1 Dual, though from Taiwan, but designed to take into account the peculiarities of work in Russia. And the weather here, as you know, is different. Models run without problems at temperatures from -20 ° C to + 60 ° C. Not ready to assert with certainty, but it is quite possible that instead of the usual, pre-conditional cold-resistant batteries are used.
findings
Cansonic turned out to be a great line of video recorders with two cameras, which I can confidently recommend. Other advantages - convenient control, swivel bracket and lenses, support for capacious drives, simple installation and a minimum of wires in the cabin, high quality materials and assembly.
Disadvantages - non-standard power cable and the fact that it is not built into the plug, but it must be connected to the recorder.
I also remind you that both models are in versions with GPS support (the module is built into the bracket) and without. The first ones are not much more expensive, but you will receive a fixation of the route and speed, as well as synchronization of the date and time.
And now about the benefits of specific models. Cansonic Z1 Zoom is equipped with cameras with different focal lengths and therefore works like binoculars. License plates can be easily viewed at a distance of up to 40-50 meters, the model simply has no competitors in this regard.
If you work on a company car / bus (or you bring passengers on your car, there are now a lot of popular online services for this), take a look at the Cansonic Z1 Dual. The mere fact of video filming in the cabin "will call" inadequate passengers to behave decently. And for the driver, this is 100% proof of his actions and insurance against cheating. Conveniently, when both cameras are in the same building, there is no need to make a garden with two different video recordings or buy a model with a remote unit (this is much more “hemorrhoids” during installation and use). If you shoot the road with both cameras, then you will get an unrivaled viewing angle.
With all this, Cansonic offers attractive prices, especially on models without a GPS console. "Zoom" costs 14 900 rubles, and "Dual" will cost 13 900 rubles. Versions of devices without GPS are estimated at 12,900 and 11,900 rubles, respectively.
PS Especially for readers of Geektimes.ru on the site Cansonic.ru, with the purchase of any model, a discount of 1,500 rubles is available. To get it in the field "Comments to the order" when placing the order, enter the code word "Geektimes". The discount is valid for 10 days from the date of the review.
PPSPS Alexander Shub, the leading Russian expert in the field of video recorders, was with you. I remind the readers about the choice of registrars or other points on this topic, do not hesitate to contact me personally at schub.alexandr@yandex.ru.
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