Stories by: Andrew Kliem

Sigma's DP-1is one of the more interesting cameras we've had through the office in recent months. Utilising a Foveon sensor, rather than the more traditional CCD or CMOS, this unit also carries a fixed 28mm lens with no zoom capabilities. While it captures some extremely impressive images, it has numerous issues with speed, interface and usability that mean it will only really suit a select group of people.

Replacing the older E-510 model, Olympus' new mid-tier SLR, the E-520, is as feature-filled as its predecessor.

With a relatively low price tag, the 8-megapixel Canon PowerShot A590IS is an enticing entry-level camera. It packs in full manual shooting options as well as a stabilized 4x optical zoom lens and a nifty array of other features. It's a good choice for users looking to try their hand at more advanced photography on a budget.

With a boxy, retro design that differs somewhat from the sleek and multi-coloured designs of its IXUS compatriots, the IXUS 90IS is the final member of a trio of new models in this series. Packing in a 10-megapixel sensor, a large screen and image stabilisation, it is pretty similar to its siblings such as the IXUS 85; this means it is another solid choice for users after a sleek and stylish compact camera.

The Laser Desktop 7000, a keyboard and mouse package, is Microsoft's latest wireless peripheral. While it is difficult for anyone to make a particularly revolutionary product in this market, Microsoft has made a few nifty improvements over past models, including floating shortcut keys and a stylish new clear bezel. The key layout is also slightly ergonomic, which reduces hand strain and makes using the keyboard more comfortable.

With the release of its latest SLR, the EOS 450D, Canon has created an interesting dynamic in its product range. While it is technically the successor to the high-selling EOS 400D, which sits at the base of its line-up, the EOS 450D packs in several new features. These include Live View and a 14-bit A-D (analogue to digital converter), which were found on the recently released mid-range unit, the 40D. Sitting at a price point somewhere between the two, the EOS 450D provides a compelling option for those looking for something a little above entry level.

Like the EB-300 headphones that we reviewed a little while back, TDK's EB-200s are nothing special. As their low price tag indicates, they are designed as a basic alternative to your stock MP3 player earbuds. Although they do have some redeeming features, overall we found the sound quality was quite lacking.

Sitting at the top of the new IXUS units, the Canon IXUS 970IS is another impressive compact camera. While not as petite as its smaller cousins, the IXUS 80IS and the IXUS 85IS, it offers a larger, 5x optical zoom as well as the same impressive feature set and image quality of the other models. This makes it another alluring option for users after a stylish, robust and full-featured compact.

Nikon's new additions to their CoolPix range continue the trend of past models by including nifty features such as wireless connectivity and alternate colour schemes. There are models to suit most levels of experience and enthusiasm.

It may be a cliche by now to use the phrase "if it ain't broke don't fix it" in a review context, but nothing better sums up Canon's approach to their latest line of IXUS units. The IXUS 85 doesn't really diverge too much from the trend set by past models — but that's a smart choice, because there really is little that needs changing. Instead this model has a few small improvements including the same Optical Image Stabilisation found on the IXUS 80, as well as an improved 10-megapixel sensor.

Sitting slightly lower in FujiFilm's FinePix camera lineup than the J50 we looked at recently, the J10 is nonetheless similar in many ways. It is a basic entry-level camera targeted at users who need a point-and-shoot-unit with no frills. Its feature set is fairly basic, and its images, while serviceable, are a little below par at times; however, the low price tag may make this an enticing option for some buyers.