Upgrading GoPro - just need a shove...

[Acroduster]

I've been actively following this site for quite some time and have been amazed at the professional quality video produced. I am solidly in the hobbyist class, but am looking to step up my "game."

After much research, I believe a GP4 Black with a Peau 3.97 is the right choice for me. I'm currently running a GP3+ Black (with nary a problem), but I'm looking to get into the 4K realm.

Peau offers the complete package for $650, and from what I can tell ($400-$500 for the GP, $140 for the lens, $130 for the install, focus, & profile) this is a good price. With some digging, I might be able to save $10 or so, but that would mean having the hassle of sending it into Peau.

Question: what do you guys think of this deal?

Some considerations:

- Peau gives you the camera ONLY - no battery, no extras, etc. (although they offer the battery for $10).
- I have a box full of GP3 extras - will they all work on the 4?
- Warranty - I can't tell if the one you get from Peau will have a full factory GP warranty.
- Can a fat-fingered, clumsy guy install a Peau lens himself without screwing it up royally and save some of the $130? (Still have to send it in for the profile change)
- Any other things I need to consider?

 

[pyrate]

if you are going to go with that lens, opt to let them install it, its only 100 bucks and you get the pink gone.
I was on the fence for a long time. Had a 4.4 lens that I installed myself, and it was pretty dang good.
but all the hype and footage on the 3.97 got to me, plus I got tired of waiting to solve for the lens profile
so far I am happy I moved

As for the package, it all depends on what you can get a hero black 4 for.
the 5 is getting close I know, but the 4 will be my dedicated camera for solo. with the new lens it gets the job done
warranty questions would need to be answered by Peau

 

[Gary Burch]

You can get a gopro4 black on ebay camera only for close to $300. All accessories will work from your other camera.

 

[Acroduster]

Not new with a warranty, though. I called Peau - they warranty the camera for 1 year, since their modification of it voids the manufacturer's warranty.

 

[pyrate]

If I were going to have to buy a camera too, it would be tempting to let them do it all
even at a bit higher price.

I have to say the experience was good, mine came back late but it was not Peaus fault.
it was USPS missed a delivery date, over a holiday weekend

 

[Adimuzio513]

So what did it cost you guys all together to send em your h4 black, far as the lens, profile change and install?

Not trying to thread jack just curious?

 

[Adimuzio513]

Oh and how long too sorry?

 

[PdxSteve]

GP3 accessories will work, but the batteries are different between GP3 and 4.

I'd suggest having Peau do everything. It took 4 days from the day I sent it in til I had it back in my hands. Technically 3 business days as I mailed it in the evening.

It's too bad you just missed their sale for lens/install/profile removal. I did as well (purchased at full price and a week later it was on sale). I'm very happy with it.

One caveat though - you will notice more vibrations in the video since these lenses are basically "zoomed" in with a narrower FOV. Vibrations that weren't showing up with the stock lens. So it's even more important to balance props/motors when using any of these aftermarket lenses with a narrower FOV than stock.

 

[pyrate]

I just flew my 3.97 in 15mph + winds
with the new apc props.

Vibration were not bad at all

 

[Burkeam]

Peau is worth more than extra few bucks. They have excellent customer service like 3DR. I like to pay a little more for my purchases knowing someone has my back. just my opinion. I already purchased my GP4B and sent it to them for a new lens. My next one will be purchased from them directly.