Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H50

I, for one, don't see the need for a 'double rating system'. Surely, as Mr. Harrison has mentioned, if the score is seen as it is intended (ie. relative to its market sector) then that is enough for the consumer?

The decision on purchase is surely primarily 'What do I want from my digital camera?', with the secondary question being 'Which camera delivers this in the best way possible?'. Once this is decided, then a decision based upon the scores is easier achieved.

With regards to the scores in each individual section – is it not true that if Mr. Harrison makes a comment on, say, chromatic aberration, and also supplies images as evidence, then his scores are validated?

We have to be wary as consumers not to become either too attached to a brand or offended when, having made an 'informed' decision and hefty investment in a camera, a less-than-favorable review appears of said camera. Bias is an accusation one should sometimes ponder with regard to oneself.

Hi folks, looking for some help...

Have read the review of the Sony H50 and subsequent comments with interest. To give you a quick insight I am very new to photography and would like to get started as a hobby/entry level photographer. I would like your advice and recommendations on which camera to go for. I have previously owned a Fuji S5700 and as such was quite interested in the Fuji S9600 which received fantastic reviews from Cliff. I am also interested in the Sony H50 (due to the apparent better spec) but was slightly confused by the reviews and comments above.

Can anyone offer some advice or recommendation as to what they would see as being the best future purchase for an amateur.

Many thanks in advance.

Cheers for replying Andy. I understand that the S9600 is an old camera but to date it hasnt been replaced unless you consider the S100FS - but thats 400 quid. I would have gone with the S9600 rather than the 8100FD. I must admit Iwas nearly sold on the Fuji until stumbling over reviews of the Sony.

I just want to be sure of a decent purchase thats simple to use and not rediculously expensive to buy.