steinj14

I'm looking to purchase an 8-channel DIY video surveillance system (standalone dvr + cameras) for outdoor use only and am curious if there are any recommended brands. I've implemented two Q-See systems but would prefer a different brand since I encountered a couple issues with those. My price threshold is $1,000 (preferably less, of course...). Any thoughts between Defender, Nightowl, Lorex, Swann, Svat, ??? Are they all really made by the same manufacturer and just rebranded? What is the minimum camera TVL that you'd recommend for outdoor use? (My house is 30' x 52'). Seems like getting the highest quality camera you can afford is most the most important thing when choosing a system? How should you place cameras in relation to motion lights? Thanks in advance.