Q I have a Fuji S5000 camera with a 10x zoom lens. Is a telephoto converter lens available for it?
A The $229 Fuji TL-FX9 1.5x converter lens will fit. It can be found online for $149, but don't buy it.
Your digital camera was introduced in July 2003, which makes your model a dinosaur. It is only 3.2 megapixels, lacks image stabilization and, compared with its contemporaries, is rated in the lower middle of the pack. Get a new camera, and relegate the Fuji to backup duty.
A new super-zoom camera will produce better looking images while adding more range, more megapixels, image stabilization and high-definition video capability.
The Fuji FinePix S1800 sells for $169, just $20 more than the converter lens. The S1800 isn't a class leader, but it will perform much better than your S3000 with an extension lens for about the same price. Going up to $250 gets something far better, such as the Panasonic DMC-FZ35, Pentax X90, Canon SX210IS or the Kodak Z981.
System of the weekThis week's system uses gear mostly from British companies. Brits are crazy about hi-fi, and it shows in their great audio equipment, which is set apart from competitors in the same way that an Aston Martin or a Jaguar is different from a BMW or a Cadillac.
The Wharfedale Diamond 10.1 bookshelf speakers form the basis of the system. They combine crisp, warm, luxurious sound with beautiful curved cabinets that look and feel expensive. They list for $350 a pair (www.soundimport.com). Put them on speaker stands from Roseville-based Sanus, about $35 (www.sanus.com).
Powering them is the Cambridge Audio Topaz SR10 stereo receiver, $499 (www.cambridgeaudio.com). It provides a potent 85 watts per channel, a high-quality tuner, a phono input and, of course, great style and workmanship. If you don't need a tuner, get the Cambridge Audio Topaz AM10 integrated amplifier for $349.
