wide angle and telephoto conversion lens;

I just got a new camcorder and I'm considering getting a wide angle and
telephoto conversion lens. My question are 1. how effective are they
2. is it okay to use a conversion adapter 34mm- 37mm 3. what brands should
I consider, I see Tokina, Digital Optics, Kenko, Opteka or should I just get
the Canon?

 

1. They are effective, but quality will vary. Dramatically - if you're
fussy, but if you just shoot the proverbial `home-movies` then you may
not be bothered too much..

2. Yes, in most cases step-up rings are ok, but it depends on the
lens/converter combo. Step down rings often cause vignetting (dark
corners).

3. Canon will very likely be good, others may not be so good. Price
may not be a good guide - I have a cheap ($90) video wide angle
converter that outperforms a much dearer ($300) one I bought for a
still camera, even though it is a very similar size - go figure.. I
suggest you test the converter/s out first, and look for problems in
image quality (ie blurring and colour fringing esp in the outer edges)
and loss of contrast. Do this on a full-size image, *not* the
camcorders display, and do not use digital zoom while you test.. (O:

PS- you might be better served in a camcorder user group..