5 comments about Canon ES8400V Hi8 Camcorder with 2.5" Color LCD Screen & Image Stabilizer.

1. We bought this camcorder 3 months ago. It works very well..except the batteries are not last long enought for a whole day. Overall , it's a good buy!



2. I just wanted to tell you that I didn't recieve any Wireless controller.



3. I found mechanical problems in this camcorder.
   the trunk didnt close.
   Do not make a mistake. pay a little bit more
   and get a Sony. I am really frustated with this
   camera.



4. I also was upset about the lack of a wireless controller, and my trunk ceased closing just after a year. Disgusted.



5. This is a great camera! It takes great video and has a lot of features. I have thoroughly enjoyed having it.

5 comments about Canon ZR700 MiniDV Camcorder with 25x Optical Zoom.

1. very good, received in time. I just love it, very easy to use.



2. This is a great little camcorder. The size is awesome, small and light. The image stabilization works really well. I have heard the tape noise while recording, but after downloading video and burning it to a DVD I haven't been able to hear it. The audio is great for the price range of this little camera. I especially like that you can record in widescreen. For some reason it gives your home videos a more interesting look. If you are having trouble shooting inside, which has been a complaint from some, try turning all the lights on in the room you're recording in and setting the camera for the tungsten light mode. Recorded this way, the videos look better than if you just record in auto mode. And although you can't really control it, any outside light coming in really enhances the video quality too (especially the color).
   I think this was a great purchase for us. Highly recommended.



3. I used this camera for 15 minutes and got the "remove the cassette" error message. I tried using other tapes thinking it may have been defective but still received the error message. Then I researched the internet and found out that this is a very common problem. Its so common that if you go to the Canon product page, they have a special link to address questions about this error. Canon's website is basically set up to make you think that you, the consumer, may have caused the problem by allowing moisture or dirt inside or by improperly closing the tape door. However, the real problem here is a defective design.
   
   Since I bought the camera so recently, you would think Canon would apologize and send me a shipping label. No. They are making me pay for shipping to their repair facility.
   
   Needless to say, I will NEVER purchase another Canon product again and I will discourage anyone I know from ever purchasing a Canon product.



4. I took my first foray into video-making last spring. I needed a decent camcorder that would work easily with my iMac. After a couple of months of research and leg work, I bought the ZR700 as well as another more expensive camera ($100 more) that was more highly regarded. I tried the two in a side-by-side comparison. It was no contest; the ZR700 blew the other away.
   
   I won't go into all the ins and outs; suffice to say that I find this camcorder easy to use with plenty of good features. It feels good in my hands and I love the joystick control. Every control is quite logical and makes sense. One small feature that many cameras don't have is the built-in lens cap. With the touch of a button, the lens opens; another touch, it closes. Much preferable to having a lens cap to dangle and perhaps lose.
   
   When it came time to making the movie, importing the clips was a snap--it was almost too easy. And the picture quality was everything I could have hoped for. I loved the features that let you program the video for the type of scene you're filming--outdoor sunny, outdoor overcast, indoor spotlight, etc. The sound was fine, too.
   
   I'm sure if I spent $500 more on a machine, I'd notice the difference in quality. But this more than met my needs. If you want an excellent camcorder at an extremely reasonable price, the ZR700 is a good choice.



5. The camera came in a timely manner and was exactly like the description stated. I would have no issues recommending or purchasing from them again.

5 comments about Canon DC230 1MP DVD Camcorder with 35x Optical Zoom.

1. I received the product about one week after purchase. I followed the instrctions and tried to insert a DVD-RW disc for recording. Unfortunately it gave me a message: CANNOT READ THE DISC, CHECK THE DISC.
   I tried three other discs (Memorex miniDVD+RW, bought via Amazon at the same time as I bought this Canon DC230, but none of them worked).
   
   I need technic support ASAP. Any suggestion would be appreciated.



2. If you want a simple way to take decent video and burn it onto a DVD with basically no editing, this is a good choice. If you want to take that video and put it on your computer, this thing is terrible. It doesn't come with any video software, even though the manual has instructions for Roxio MyDVD for Canon. This software comes with a different model, and you can't buy the "for Canon" version separately. The regular MyDVD from Roxio costs $70, and is terrible.
   
   Overall, my old Sony miniDV tape camcorder worked better with my computer. I think the main benefit here will be to capture raw video of the kids on a little DVD, then just mail the DVD to the in-laws.



3. Is a good product, simple to work with and frendliy.
   
   Jose G Sanchez



4. Great Price and nice product. I compared the models on a different web site but made my purchase on Amazon because the price was the best.



5. I purchased the DC230 as a Christmas gift for my wife. It took a couple of times using it to understand the itnitializing and finalizing processes. But now I consider myself an amatuer expert and enjoy the quality pictures and movies from this camcorder. Would recommend to anyone.

5 comments about Canon XL2 3CCD MiniDV Camcorder w/20x Optical Zoom.

1. I'm a non-byist consumer; and ex-owner of the XL1 and XL1S.
   
   We recently "upgraded" to the XL2 for an upcoming film shoot.
   
   BAD NEWS. The camera's we ordered both came "defective", according to Canon tech support (they were drop shipped from their facility brand new - and NOT black market). Now, I find this hard to believe, and I think the issues are with the computer which controls output for the camera.
   
   In 30P mode, any vertical lines flicker/pixelate, and images blur as they move past the camera - It's much choppier than the old "frame mode" on the XL1 and XL1s.
   
   In 24P mode, the entire image flickers, vertical lines go insane, and using the standard 1/24 shutter speed, the images are CHOPPY as they walk by the camera. Any vertical lines jump about. There is not image clarity the minute anything moves.
   
   In 60i - the camera looks fine, but that defeats the purpose of owning the camera entirely!!!! Unless you want to drop frames/filmlook upon completion, this is not an option.
   
   In previous XL models, the frame mode had it's issues...soft focus, lowered resolution, choppy images if moving right in front of the camera...However, the 24P is a joke. No person in their right mind could use this, unless to produce nausea! And, believe me, the resolution output on this camera, if anything, is lower - and I'm using the optional 20X super-wide XL2 lens ($1500).
   
   I've shot with the XL1, XL1s, DVX1000 - they ALL blow this thing away.
   
   Now, I'm stuck with a Canon, as I purchased unreturnable accessories for this thing. So, as I read user comments, I'm praying that just certain cameras have these issues. It seems others on message boards have this issue, but folks tell them they're crazy (they're not - believe me). I'm forced to drive 100 miles to the closest store with the XL2 in stock, hoping that the 24P or 30P or their floor model is somewhat clear. If not, I'll have to buy back my old XL1!!!!!
   
   BE VERY CAREFUL IF YOU DECIDE TO BUY THIS CAMERA. It's not PRO at all!!!!!!!!!!



2. The Canon XL2 is as good as the Panasonic equivalent. Both of these cameras are better than eachother depending on who you ask. If you ask me, the Canon's picture is more pleasing, less noisy, and more capable in difficult shooting situations. I love Canon's controls, everything you need is available without searching through menus. The Panasonic is lighter, less awkward to use, and more compact; but Canon's lens and features more than make up for it in my opinion. Best camera you can get for the money.



3. Now, some individuals will try to convince you the XL2 is a poor Prosumer camcorder and will give seemingly good arguments. Don't buy into it.
   
   For instance, a reviewer lower down this page complains the camera arrived broken and thus reviews it as a horrible machine. Unfortunately, this said reviewer doesn't talk about the actual functionality of an actual undamaged product, rather his own broken camera. Needless to say, his opinion is vastly slanted.
   
   Another compares the XL2 to the DVX100 series from Panasonic and prefers the latter. He states the XL2 is too heavy and doesn't achieve the same calibre results as the cheaper Panasonic camcorder.
   
   First of all, Canon has continued to revolutionize the photography industry for decades. They have proven themselves in both film and digital formats, for both still camera and camcorder. True, the XL2 lacks some features other more expensive cameras have (compare the JVC GU1000) but that's okay. And, yes, the camera has a very large body and is definately heavier than the Panasonic DVX100, but this is for specific reasons.
   
   You have to first consider why you want a prosumer camcorder. If you just want to shoot hobby short films and want a professional look, I suggest you stick with either the higher-end Canon or JVC or Panasonic or even Sony (god forbid) consumer camcorders which run around $900. On the other hand, if you're considering becoming a serious hobbyist and don't intend to turn it into some sort of profession then Panasonic's DVX series is a good buy. The DVX 100's are cheaper, smaller, and somewhat easier to use. They are far more "point-and-shoot" than the other prosumer camcorders on the market. And they do a fairly good job.
   
   Yet, the XL2 manages to not only hold its own, but also triumph over all other camcorders in the industry. First and foremost, the XL2 has the option to change lenses. This is a great boon for any serious shooter because attaching an actual lens to a camera gives far better results than slapping on some sort of adapter, which distort the image. Canon offers two lens types for the XL2: the included 20X zoom lens and a 3X wide angle lens; both are very expensive by themselves. But, with an optional Canon ring adapter running for $300, you could take your normal Canon SLR still camera lenses and attach them to the body and have them function perfectly. This allows the user a plethora of imaging options when shooting. Now, the normal user won't ever use anything other than the 20X zoom lens (a remarkable piece of machinery in itself), but that's just fine. You're buying the camera for its options and potentials as well as the physical benefits. Think of it like buying a BMW: you buy the car for its physical features you're likely to use (the radio, heated seats, leather, sunroof, etc.) but you also buy it for its safety and cumstomer service, things you'll hardly ever need. It just makes you feel good you have those options available.
   
   Furthermore, the XL2 is a wonderful camera. It shoots beautifully without problems of any sort. Yes, it takes some getting used to, but that's because it has a lot of fuctions and options. The physical body design is simple enough that all the necessary shooting options (i.e., 24P, 30i, 60i, mic adjustments, white balance controls, presents, etc.) are easily accessible. The end product of a regular shoot is stunning. The Canon lens captures colors almost perfectly and the image stabilization built into the camera is a great help. The large body design (though awkward for some) is actually a benefit. The camera can be placed on the shoulder, giving greater stability to the shoot. You can't do that with a Panasonic or Sony.
   
   No, the camera doesn't have a LCD screen on the side, but do you really need one? An LCD screen is not only distracting but also a battery hog, and takes precious room for control options or accessories that could other wise be placed where the LCD is built in. An LCD is great for consumer cameras because they're small and nobody wants to look through those one-inch viewfinders. But the XL2 has a very nice, large color viewfinder, and can be comfortably used with the camera on your shoulder. For those running hand-held shots you can flip part of the viewfinder open and can see a 1.5" LCD display. It's not dazzling or great, but it gets the job done. You're out in the field to get footage, not admire the LCD screen.
   
   Finally, the XL2 offers XLR microphone inputs, a big bonus for people who want good sound in their video. You won't find this feature in either Panasonic or Sony prosumer camcorders.
   
   In the end, Canon's XL2 is a beautiful camcorder. It offers you a lot more than you know at first glance, and delivers near-perfect results. The closest competitor would be the far more expensive (by at least $1000) Panasonic GU1000, which is very similar to the XL2. If you're still not sure about the camera, I suggest you take a ride down over to your nearest Fry's to experiment. Or, you can visit the local TV station and ask them to tell you a little bit about why they're all using XL2's over the other camcorders on the market. No...seriously...they are.
   
   Go figure.



4. I have used this for a year at my college. I do not know why some people dislike it. I love it! and on my opinion, It is the closest to HD your gonna get while not getting HD. You guys gotta realize that this camera has shot some big movies like Cold Mountian. I must say though the panasonic dvx100b is quite comparable, because I have used that too. But I like this camera I do not care what people say about it. It is so customizable that you will be surprised when you mess around with it's advance functions. nice camera, a little pricey, but all in all it's more professional than some other people say.



5. I was a bit nervous buying a camera at this level. But I have learned so much from it. I'm still learning. It's an impressive piece of equipment. Very versatile. You have to take it out and experiment, but that's the fun of it. I would recommend that you read, read, read all the reviews. Boy, it gets attention when you are out in public (what fun!)
   People ask for my business card often because they assume I'm a pro just by using it. Or they ask, what TV station I work for. There are lots of add-ons to consider owning. Its not High Definition but who needs it? I take it everywhere. Just remember you will eventually need a good travel case,a wind screen, extra batteries, a heavy-duty professional tripod and additional lenses to complete your experience. The camera is a bit heavy(as I expected) and takes some getting used to.......but wow, its worth it ! The sound you get is great. I just bought some wireless microphones for my XL2. I'm glad I own it.

No comments about Canon Kata Case for XL1 & XL2 Camcorders.

5 comments about Canon Elura 100 MiniDV Camcorder.

1. I am sorely disappointed with this camcorder. Its lighting is not only poor -its erratic !! Sometimes at whatever angle I record, even in bright light, the resulting picture has unpredictable dark and bright lighting. This camera is just not worth it. The rewind and forward operations are plain frustrating. JVC wins hands down anyday!



2. I was deciding what type of camcorder to get and didn't want to spend more than $600 on the good stuff nor $200 on some cheap miniDV. I read about the Canon elura 100 many times but the camcorder was out for 1yr already. I wanted to get the latest and greatest thus I purchasing a basic Panasonic DVD camcorder(D230)...boy was that a mistake...I thought I can record onto dvd, pop it in my dvd player and start watching it, or copy the dvd video(vob) onto my desktop for editing, but NOoo, it doesn't work like that. After you finish recording the DVD you have to finalize within your camcorder while it is plugged in (won't finalize if not plugged in), the process takes about 10-15min for a 30min footage, and the finalized DVD is not recognizable by the PC, so you'll end up with tons of DVD-Rs. (no sure if this is true for all dvd camcorder or just the panasonic one I got)
   
   Anyhow, I decided to go back to miniDV (can transfer to the PC, easier to edit, superior video quality compared to DVD and HD camcorders and more compact) I wanted to get the Elura but it was discounted, and all the new Canon MiniDV's had worst video performance than the Elura (based on numerous reviews). Also, none of them had 2 LED(don't do much but better than nothing) and built in lenses cover. I was torn. After researching some more I found out about the new Sony DCR-HC48. It is about the same price point as the Elura, about the same size, similar CCD, got a sliding lense cover and it can record in infrared (which I thought was pretty cool)!
   
   I end up buying a refurbished Elura online and a brand new HC48 at local store. First thing I did was to test for motor noise since so many people complain about it. I took both camcorder to the bathroom where the echo is loudest and recorded 1 min footage on each. I then played it back on both camcorder with volume turned to the highest, to my surprise the Sony camcorder actually had much louder motor noise than the Canon. The Sony had a loud motor noise while the Canon had a light whirling noise.
   The canon's video performance was also better, with more accurate color and auto focus. The infrared on the Sony was fun for 5min, but I don't see any particle use for it (unless you either want to create some Pariz Hiltxn video with glowing green eyes, or if you want to record someone in the dark without the person knowing, but keep in mind the range of the infrared LED is about the same as a regular white LED, the camcorder needs to be 3feet away from the subject in order to illuminate it in infrared) Anyhow, I kept the refurbished Canon and am happy with the decision. Oh did I also mention that the Elura is the most compact miniDV camcorder in the market? the major downside of the Elura is that is has been discontinued and only refurbished units are available online now.



3. We have had this camera for a year, and have been very pleased with how it has worked. It is easy to operate, and gives great results. Have noticed only a bit of background motor noise when we have recorded in a very quiet setting (interior locations without any conversation.) While we were somewhat concerned about noise because of other reviews, it has not been a problem. Great battery life.



4. I purchased this camera for work and have been satisfied with the results. I interview members of the community for our oral history project and video tape them to record it. The camera is not professional quality, but on our small museum's budget it does the trick. The images are clear, the camera is easy to use and small enough to haul around when doing interviews at people's homes. I purchased a firewire connection so I can upload the images onto the computer and make DVDs of the oral histories. They might not be movie quality, but they are good enough for displaying in exhibits and for researchers to access.
   If you want this camera for home use or other small events I recommend it.



5. This camera is everything I hoped it would be. I wanted a mini-dv tape format, and there is a dwindling number of those available. I wanted it to include a port for converting my analog videos to digital, and I wanted an external-mic port. Few current camcorders in the under-$400 price range contain these options. The Elura met all these criteria, but I had concerns about its low-light capabilities, since I film a lot of family events indoors. I also had concerns from reviews that slammed it for having a high amount of motor noise.
   I'm pleased with the quality of the Elura's low-light images. As for motor noise, my experience for comparison was only with a large VHS format camcorder; it had no problem with motor noise. The motor sound of the Elura 100, while alarmingly noticeable next to my ear when recording in quiet settings, is not a significant problem on the recordings. It might be a factor if it were recording a silent scene in a still room, but it has not hurt the sound in any of the situations I have yet used it.
   The manual is organized pretty well, and is usually quite clear in giving instructions.
   
   CONS:
   Reviewers sometimes mentioned the flimsy port covers, and I have to agree. Everyone who handles my camcorder is instructed to deal very gently with the port covers, and they have held up so far.
   The toggle switch for selecting menu options is quite short; it takes a more precise touch than others I tried, but after extra time practicing with it, the user can navigate quickly among the options.
   The hand strap is positioned so that the camera flops sideways in the hand if I release my grip on it. It should rest more stably in the hand.

5 comments about Canon Elura 40MC MiniDV Digital Camcorder w/ 2"LCD, MMC Card and Digital Still Mode.

1. Please be advised that Canon U.S.A., Inc. has posted information on the web regarding the Elura 40MC and Elura 50 camcorders. This information relates to the "Remove the Cassette" message being displayed on the camcorder's LCD screen.
   
   This information can be accessed by visiting Canon's on-line support at the following URL:
   http://consumer.usa.canon.com/ir/controller?act=PgComSmModDisplayAct&keycode=2112&fcategoryid=227&modelid=9037
   
   [...]



2. The "remove tape" issue and damage to tapes started in less then two years. We spent $1000 for this camera for two years, you can buy two camera's for that cost now with the same features. I wish we would have read the reviews before buying. It was a nice camera when it was new thats why it gets 1-star from me and not 0-stars.



3. I just got my camera back from Canon today. Repairs, which were free (Canon paid for shipping both ways), were completed in about a week.
   
   I give Canon credit for owning up to the camera's desing flaws & providing free repairs even thought the cameras are WAY out of warranty.
   
   I've owned 5 Canon cameras, and I will continue to buy & recommend their products. The cameras have worked well, and I respect the company for fixing their problems.



4. As a lifelong Canon user starting as far back as 30 years ago with my AV-1, I cannot believe the cr*p this company is capable of producing. After a little more than three years and only 6 tapes worth of footage, I have vowed NEVER to buy another Canon optical product again. My Elura 40MC was purchased in Singapore but has been in for repairs more than half a dozen times in three different countries! It is now at a repair shop in Bangkok and the quote I just got from them is that it will cost me another $375 to get this into working condition. Unit has never been dropped, no scratches, still looks brand new. But every time I replace one part, two months later another problem emerges. I have now spent more than double the cost of the unit on repairs. This was sent in three times for the "Remove cassette" problem and the first two times Canon service could not fix the issue, the third time I had the entire drive mechanism replaced at my own expense. The only reason I kept spending the money to have this lemon repaired was because I LOVED my Canon and refused to believe that the company could build such a faulty product. Sorry Canon, but you have lost all future sales from me and I am determined to tell EVERYONE I can about my story. I will continue to use all my other Canon products but when these kick the bucket, I plan to replace them with competing brands. I've already begun the switchover -- two years ago when I needed to replace my compact digicam, I looked at Casio, Kodak, Panasonic, Minolta and Pentax -- but not a single Canon....
   
   Ken in Bangkok



5. I have accused Canon of holding a policy of planned obsolescence & I repeat it here. After just a few years of owning, taking immpecable care, & minimal amount of recording on this thing, this once-already repaired camera has died. The required part alone is almost half the price of the original price.
   
   I always thought Canon was the Rolls-Royce of consumer camera & now I'm convinced its the Edsel.
   
   Canon, you are disgraceful.

5 comments about Canon DC40 4.3MP DVD Camcorder w/10x Optical Zoom.

1. I've had this camera for 6 mos. now. This is a great option for those not wanting to carry two different cameras. Switching between video and still is quick and easy. The quality of the pictures and video are superior to others. My brothers own comparables Sonys and a Panasonic. Pictures/Video are better on this; however... The video editing software leaves much to be desired. And the very low light video is better on the Sony. Other than that I would choose this camera vs. the others. The best part is that the wives agree; the Cannon is easier to use, more comfortable to hold and takes better pictures.



2. The Canon DC40 is a great camera in all levels of light. I just got back from Disney and filmed the fireworks show. I've never had any luck filming things like this but with this camera set on the special "Fireworks" setting it looked as good as the firework shows you see on TV. Daytime movies came out fantastic as well. The camera feels sturdy and I have no fear of it breaking. Takes really sharp vivid color photos. The option to take pictures while you film video is pretty cool but the photos don't come out as good as when you take the photos by themselves. The one problem I have with it is that it picks up a lot of wind sound. I glued a very small piece of foam, kinda like what is on earbuds, on the mic and it cut down on the noise quite a bit with no loss to voices and sounds. If your budget won't allow you to go hi-def then this is the cam for you.



3. I bought a DC40 in Feb, 2007. From the first day, I found that I couldn't transfer the vedio from the camcorder to PC. I thought that it may be the problem of software, I contacted the Roxio, which is the manufacturer of software. It was very difficult to get support from Roxio. After many trys, they didn't tell me what was wrong, and stopped responding my questions.
   
   I read the manual carefully, but couldn't find any answers for the problem. I just gave up.
   
   In the middle of July, I found that the camcorder was dead, couldn't be charged. I called Canon. It was easy to get some one on phone to talk to. I was told to mail it or drop it to the nearest repair center. I dropped it to a repair center just 20 mins away.
   
   The young lady of repair center took the camcorder, and told me that it may be the charger didn't work. The problem of transfering vedio may be caused from the same part of camcorder. I was told that it should be fixed in 5 business days.
   
   I received the call from repair center after 8 business days. I went there to pick up, the girl gave the fixed camcorder. I tried to use it right after I got out the door, but it was not working. I found that the battery was missing. The girl couldn't find the battery. She gave me a new one. I tried to charge the battery after I got home, it was not working. I had to go back with the AC adapter. It was the defective of the adapter. Now it is working, charging battery and importing the vedio to PC from the camcorder.
   
   I may be just unlucky.



4. THIS IS MY FIRST CAMCORDER BUT IVE SEEN SEVERAL DIFFERENT ONES. BUT THIS CAMCORDER OUT RATES ANY OF IT.. YOU CAN DO SO MUCH WITH IT WITHIN THE CAMCORDER OR ON TO YOUR COMPUTER.. YOU JUST HAVE TO READ THE BOOK CAREFULLY.. THIS IS THE BEST DVD CAMCORDER AND I SUGGEST YOU GET ONE..



5. The camera boasts lots of features and a decent price, however Canon has omitted one very important feature that is very crucial to some users such as myself- It has no ability (per the Canon Service Reps) to have the video pass- thru without having the on-screen data shown on the recieving end (such as on a video switcher). The only way to get that data off is to RECORD your video. We needed to use the camera for sending a live video feed, but alas, we were not able to get the on screen info to not show on the final feed destination. The Canon rep said that this is the only video camera that he has seen without the proper menu options to correct this.
   
   Other than that, the video quality appeard to be very nice.

5 comments about Canon DC50 5MP DVD Camcorder with 10x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom.

1. I bought about 2 weeks ago... I am not happy with it... It does not work with other softwares such as Pinnacle or Ulead... You need to finished DVD before edit, but if you finished it you need to use the software that comes with camera. Software very basic and very limited. Pictures very very very low quality for a 5.0 MP... Almost useless... Not night vision fuction... Very expensive camera and very limited camera... Not a good buy



2. While this camcorder may be one of the more expensive DVD based Camcorders, its probably one of the best you'll find before moving on to High Definition. I had actually purchased the Sony SR42 30 GB before this and had to return it immediately because its performance was highly disappointing. This Canon camcorder however takes excellent footage. It also takes great still images too - a cool function in addition is that you can set it to take photos while in recording mode (at a little lower resolution). Doing this allows you to take advantage of the digital zoom to get in a little closer for still photos. This brings me to one of the draw backs of the camera, it only has 10x optical zoom. While while it is not bad, there are many cameras with a more powerful optical zoom. The plus side, is that the digital zoom (the 40x option, not the 2000x) is actually pretty good. Maybe not to the full 40x, but for the first little bit of additional zoom it still looks great. The only other draw back for me was getting used to the rewritable dvds and transferring them to my computer. It took me a little bit to figure out (just set up the disc in VR-mode) but after I did it was terrific. Now I just plug in the USB cord and put on the video into my editing program and edit away. You may here some reviews noting that the controls aren't all the intuitive, but just spend a minute or two with them (or read the manual) and the controls and functionality are good. Ultimately I would rate the camera a 4.5, but it wasn't a choice. If you're debating between this camera and others, just spend the few extra bucks and get this one. Also, if your far from moving up to high def, get this camera as well because I believe its towards the top of regular def (it does does have the option to shoot in either 16:9 or 4:3). Enjoy!



3. I give this product a 5 star rating because I believe it's great at what it does. I see this as a high end consumer product and I don't think Canon pretends that it's anything else. I bought the DC50 after reading just about everything I could find to compare the Canon with the Sony. I chose the Canon because I really dislilke the Sony marketing scheme wich to me is like the Microsoft of the consumer electronics indusrty. I also can not get my eyes to see a better picture from the Sony for more money or enough bells and whistles to make a difference. If you're looking for a Prosumer product with great editing features for making movies and have an audiophiles ear or if you expect to take award winning stills, I'm sure you will be dissapointed. If you want a digital DVD Camcorder with still photo function that delivers excellent pictures at a reasonable price point then this one is hard to beat. If you're like me,just about everything you shoot are Family and Friends, Sports events, School plays and Car Shows. I don't see anything better unless you just can't wait for the High Deffinition camcorders either HDD,DVD or Tape to get through the de-bugging process over the next couple of years and find a comparable price point to the DC50.



4. After researching on many similar camcorders from different manufacturers,
   I purchased DC50. What a great choice !!!
   This is my very first camcorder and nothing to complain about; easy to operate. I JUST LOVE IT !!!



5. If you're using Windows Vista, DON'T buy this camera. The camera is not compatible with Vista, meaning you can't plug the camera directly into your computer. Also, the software the camera comes with (Sonic MyDVD) isn't compatible either, so you won't be able to edit the video or even copy to your hard-drive.
   
   Maybe it's more fair to say don't buy Vista, but since Canon technical support was unapologetic and un-helpful, I'm not going to give them the benefit of the doubt.

5 comments about Canon ZR830 MiniDV Camcorder with 35x Optical Zoom.

1. To begin, this is the first camcorder I've owned. It's possible I was expecting more...I own a Nikon CoolPix 8mp digicam that takes movies, but obviously not with any great quality.
   
   I was kind of expecting a little better quality (higher resolution) from the camera. From that point of view I was a little let down...it's sufficient, dont get me wrong, but it's only a step up from my digicam.
   
   The device takes memory card and tape...It wont store video on the card however, unless a tape is in the device...didn't really say that in the manual and confused me (I had a mem card when device arrived, but no tapes).
   
   I got a little annoyed too trying to figure out how to copy from tape to PC...there's SQUAT about this in the manual, and this is tough to find even on 'net searches.
   
   WHAT YOU NEED TO COPY VID TO PC:
   FIREWIRE CABLE --> You MUST have this cable to copy to PC...$35+ part...BE AWARE
   
   The software that came with the device kinda blows...I don't know why, but software that's bundled with digicams and now i see this camcorder, is always chintzy...Use Microsoft Movie Maker instead...WITH FIREWIRE CABLE AND MS MOVIE MAKER, YOU CAN EASILY PULL VIDEO OFF THE TAPE, and you dont have to be a rocket scientist...hopefully I can save someone the headache I went through trying to figure this out...easy enough once you know...
   
   So, summary is, for the money, decent, not great...will suffice since I'm a cheapO.
   
   :)



2. As an aspiring filmaker, and with a very fixed budget, this was a great purchase, it has great features and the menu options are great. This is perfect to start off filming, and for family get together's, it's great!



3. My first digital camcorder was a GL2, which cost about $2,500.00. When the heads went bad, I decided not to fix it, and a year later, I bought the ZR830. Wow! Not only is this little camera easier to use than the overweight GL2, but the picture is just as great and needs much less light than the GL2. With a 600 watt light the picture is excellent and the shadows are not as overwhelming on film. The GL2 does not make a true 16:9 widescreen picture, it spreads the pixels, so you get a fuzzy picture. The ZR830 just blocks the view to make a widescreen so you have a true pixel size. The sound is much better on the GL2, but almost too good. It picked up everything that made any noice at all. I just turn the sound all the way up on the ZR830 and do some editing in Final Cut Express and it sounds just as good, without all the little annoying extraneous sounds that you cannot hide. If I had it to do all over I would have bought the ZR830 instead of the GL2, and not just because of the price, but It is hard to believe the price difference compared to the quality difference, which in most cases is none. And that is just my opinion.



4. We haven't much of a chance to use it yet, but we think it will be just fine- once we get the hang of it. The size is nice, and it's light-weight. Focusing with the zoom has been a challenge, but then again maybe we just haven't gotten the knack of it yet. It's our first video camera!



5. Bought it for my husband, he loved it. He wanted a camera that would take picture of tiny prints as he wanted does laser marking and pad printing. This camera zooms upto 35x so it takes great pic.