hriter

I purchased the G9, Ikelite housing and Ikelite DS 51 strobe a few months ago. While I'm not familiar with the a650, I can tell you that the G9 is great and the controls work well with the Ikelite housing. As for the RAW discussion, I have not gotten that far yet.

I went with the G9 / Ikelite and a DS-51 stobe a few months ago following the same debate. No complaints. I used it on multiple dives in St. Martin back in February and was very please with the results. Most of the arguments above a right on. Money is a big one. Also packing and complexity. I found the G9 very versitile. Don't go with a canon housing. Ikelite is much better, especially when it comes to adding strobes.

I bought the G9 / Ikelite back in January. Used on a 10-day to St. Martin... I love it. I got some great pics despite crappy conditions (high winds and low vis). I purchased a DS-51 to go with it. If you get one, order an extra flash deflecter with it. I forgot mine on the dive boat the first time out after it fell of on entry. (Didn't seem to matter.) Off to Bermuda for another round over Memorial Day..... Can't wait.

I purchased the DS51 package with the G9/Ikelite last month. I think it depends on portability and power. The DS 51 uses AA batteries (rechargable or not). It travels well since it is small. Having just upgraded from point-and-shoot film for the last 20 years, the G9 is great. Unfortunately the one trip I have taken it on so far was to St. Martin. Heavy winds prevented dive boats form going out a few days and stirred things up pretty bad. I did take about 400 shots snorkeling though.

I've been to both several times.... In fact, I'm of to St Martin (French Side) this Friday. There is some good diving at both islands. I actually like St Thomas a litte better for diving, but the top-side at St. Martin is far better (no i don't mean the french girls on the beach!). Scuba Fun is a good dive outfit. Also, I took the attached picture on a dive w/ Dive Safaris a few years back. Much of the diving is dependent on surface conditions. There is a good sea mount dive between St. Martin and St. Barts if you can get too it. The east side tends to be better, but can be rough and they can't always get out there. Try to aviod getting put on a boat with the cruise ship mob if you can. Also, I just purchased a Canon G9 with Ikelite housing and stobes. Can't wait to try it out!!!! I don't know if the attachement is coming through on this????