Newbie needs advice Oly SP310 and PT030

[BradNC]

I'm new underwater photography. The cheapo underwater disposibles just don't cut it anymore.
I'm thinking of the Olympus SP 310 and Oly PT030 housing. I've found the camera for $288.99 and the PT030 Housing for $189.95 is this a good bang for the buck system? I want to stay around $500.:05:

 

[Dee]

http://www.olympusamerica.com/cpg_section/product.asp?product=1187&fl=4

All the specs look good to me. It's will shoot RAW, takes up to a 1gig XD card, and it take AA batteries so you can use NiMH rechargeables. You've got PictBridge printing options if you want to print directly from the camera or XD card.

Olympus lists it at $349 so the price looks good if it's a reputable place.

Not knowing if it has any little hinky aspects like mentioned in the post below about the SP-350, it looks like a good deal.

 

[Peter Guy]

www.dpreview.com just had a nice review of the camera.

 

[scubaindian]

Where are u buyin the camera and housing from? I am also interested in buying this. Thanks.

 

[BradNC]

The camera is on newegg.com I know this to be a reputable dealer. I buy all of my computer equipment from them and can highly recommend them.

The housing is available at leisurepro.com They are a gray market scuba equipment supplier but are reputable.

http://www.newegg.com/ProductSort/SubCategory.asp?SubCategory=12

http://www.leisurepro.com/Cat/Context_965/Photography/971.html

 

[parrotdiver]

Try www.abesofmaine.com for the Oly 310 and accessories. The price is even lower depending on the package you choose.

 

[BradNC]

Thanks for the lead Parrot!