the video sound quality of and the picture are fine ... but why the "FISHEYE" effect on the edges?

That's because it's a wide angle lens, Donny. The Go Pro is an ultra-wide angle lens, which fisheye is more prevalent. Some of this can be corrected with software, but not totally.

Gary

Thanx gary but what is the best video camera with stereo audio inputs thats reasonably in the same price range that doesn't give you the fish eye effect anyone?

Kodak Zi8 is great!

The Zi8 was discontinued some time ago, however, you may still find it on some online stores. Also, no direct input for audio that I could find on the spec sheet. It has a 4X zoom lens, but it is also wide angle when zoomed all the way in, so you will get some curving on the edges.

Gary

It definitely has direct audio input. No curving that I've noticed. Videos on my website. On some of them I had the input a little hot as it was a rush project.
www.donmasonmusic.com

what had taken the place of the Zi8?

I guess Don should know - he owned one!

When I looked at the video of Don playing Stand By Me, there was no curving, but as close as it was I wouldn't expect any.

Gary

Still own it. I need to use it more!

It doesn't always have the fisheye - it's the wide angle setting, and the bad positioning. I was going for sound, not picture when I recorded those segments. It does a fantastic job when it's in front of the subject, and a little back.