5 comments about Sony DCRHC40 MiniDV Digital Handycam Camcorder w/10x Optical Zoom.

1. Over the past 35 years that I have been shooting video, it has come a long way. Comparing this to the RCA TK-76 "Minicam" that I shot tv news with on 3/4" in 1977 is fun: 1/100 the cost and double the scan lines. Oh, and 1/80th the weight not including the 40 pound recorder. At first, I didn't think something this size could work this well. I needed something quick and inexpensive to do video cuts for inserting into PowerPoint. My boss was too cheap to buy equipment for the department and I needed training tapes. So I just bought a HC40, shot the material, edited it on my HP a622n and inserted into the PP. And then did it about a dozen more times on other training material. It looks surprisingly well 10' tall through a 2000 lumen projector. A handheld or wireless mic is a must. At least a key light, if not key, base and fill are a must. My Lowell Totalight kit works perfectly with a few scrims. Not broadcast quality of today although surpassing broadcast quality of 30 years ago. Just border line for industrial or PP if lit well with good sound. I am satisfied with it and it travels well.



2. The Picture Package software that comes with these Sony's is terrible - incompatible with most DVD/CD-R writers, meaning that you can't get your video off the MiniDV cassette tapes onto either your computer or a DVD or CD-R. I spent over 10 hours on the phone with Sony and Picture Package tech support, and ultimately learned that it is incompatible with my DVD/CD-R writer (in my Compaq Presario computer), and now am having to try to find some other solution for getting my videos off the cassettes to some other medium. The manuals are no help, and tech support is extremely time-consuming and ultimately found no solution other than telling me to use Microsoft Movie Maker - which takes FOREVER and I'm not even sure it really works. Before you buy this model - I highly recommend you seriously research whether it is compatible with your DVD/CD-R writer, and get some certainty about how you will be able to transfer the video tapes to computer or DVD or CD-R. I WOULD NOT buy this camcorder knowing what I now know.



3. if you think SONY is a quality brand....YOU ARE CORRECT
   
   too bad i dont know how to use all the features....and you will use a camcorder less than you think....so dont spend too much....and buy a good still camera...the stills on this is low resolution



4. I just purchased this camera about a week ago and I received it a few days ago.
   
   The camera is absolutely wonderful. Even though people say the bottom loading tape is bad, I think it is actually a good feature. It makes the camera less bulky and it is so easy to carry around because the tape isn't top loading.
   
   I love the size and it's so convenient. I'm used to bulky cameras and this is way better.
   
   The touch screen feature is great. People say it is inconvenient, but I don't think it is. I think it's because I'm used to having cameras with the controls in the LCD itself. The touch screen is neat, and it means you don't have to press a gajilion buttons like some cameras to control the camera.
   
   Although people say the LCD screen looks "washed out" if you mess around with the LCD brightness and stuff light that, it'll look less washed out and it will look pretty good.
   
   Also, I learned that if you used your middle finger to use the zoom toggle, you have more control over it and it doesn't make the "zoom toggle noise" that gets recorded if you don't control it.
   
   The fact that this camera takes pictures is cool. Although they are not "digital camera" sort of pictures, what do ya expect? This camera is mainly used for recording, not pictures. But I love how you can take pictures with the nightshot on and it looks pretty awesome.
   
   I bought this camera primarily for its analog through digital passthrough and its amazing. Its so easy to transfer your videos to the computer. (via firewire, it doesn't come with the camera, but you can find some on amazon that are under five bucks) The software that comes with the camera isn't that great when it comes to transferring. I recommend ArcSoft ShowBiz and its really easy to use. I haven't used Microsoft Movie Maker for transferring it yet, but it will most likely work.
   
   
   It doesn't do well under low light, but that's what the super night shot plus is for. The supernight shot plus feature is awesome. I've never had a camera like this before that could do that. I went into a dark room to test it out, I could see almost everything that I couldn't see without the super night shot plus.
   
   The problems I had with this camera is its instructions on using analog through digital pass through. I never used a camera with this feature, so I didn't know how to use it. I spent 2 hours trying to figure it out through the manual that came with the camera, which didn't help much. I was so frustrated that I looked on the net on how to do it. Guess what? In less then five minutes from looking, I found the instructions and it worked. If only I had looked on the net first instead of wasting 2 hours of my time on how to do it... But, when I finally digitized my old analog tapes, they came out perfect.
   
   Another thing that I don't like about this camera is that the viewfinder doesn't tilt up, even though it pulls out.
   
   Other than that, this camera is amazing. I like the the zoom because I've used it to watch and record a play. With the zoom up all the way, it was very clear and it felt like I was sitting close up to the stage with this useful gadget.
   
   Sony is such a great brand and I wouldn't hesitate to buy another camera from them in the future.



5. I just needed a small camcorder for making video game movies and this fits that. My laptop recognized it right away. Transfer is good and I have not had any problems with this DV Camcorder. The only complaint that I do have is the touch screen. I prefer actual buttons, but the camcorder is still easy to use.

5 comments about JVC GRD750 MiniDV Camcorder with 34x Optical Zoom.

1. I really like my new camcorder. It's easy to use and gives great quality pictures.



2. JVC had a class action lawsuit about their camcorders and even though this one is not on the list, it should be. I bought it new and it has had a problem dropping sound and pixilation on the left side of the screen since I opened the box. It has been into JVC repair FOUR, yes FOUR times since I bought it at the beginning of the summer 2007 and every time it had been returned, the problem persists. JVC has yet to acknowledge that it is a LEMON and insists on repairing it. Their repairs do not work! I dont think they are even doing anything but repacking it and sending it back to me. Its out for repair at JVC as I type this and hopefully they will replace it this time. PLEASE, for your sanity's sake, buy another camcorder besides JVC.



3. This Camcorder offers high value for those needing a casual use camcorder. I find this light-weight cam is well made, delivering decent quality video, and is easy to operate- with both auto and manual modes. It does suffer from the limitations most, if not all, budget 1/6 CCD .68mp camcorders have. It struggles in low-light (bumping up the exposure and/or adjusting white balance helps), and playback on a high resolution or a big screen monitor with only .68mp isn't always flattering. Playback on more normal size screens (like my 27" set) are fine. Outdoors and in regular lighting situations this camera performs very well. Indoor quality suffers without enough light, and I usually use manual mode to improve things.
   
   From the couple of other posts, there may be quality control issues. I have none and it seems to be well made. There are other sites with almost universally positive personal reviews, so hopefully JVC has addressed any issues.
   
   It only has a firewire (no USB), so PC users must have a firewire port if they want to edit. I use a mac and have no issues using iMovie.
   
   Likes: OIS, 34X zoom, 16x9 or 4x3 modes, battery life (about 2 hours), manual control, size, build quality, price.
   
   Dislikes: No DV cable (does anybody include one?), no software, focus issues with low-light and occasionally at the long end of zooms, sub-par audio.
   
   Overall I find the D750 to be a very predictable camcorder, offering good quality videos at an almost steal of a price. I'd recommend this camcorder to anyone, and think it would be a perfect learning tool for someone getting started, or those who travel frequently (small size) or perhaps have higher loss risks (low price).



4. I just love this camcorder. Its very easy to handle and operate. I just recorded my daughters band performance and it turned out just fine. I would recommend this camera to anyone. I also got this camera for only $179 at Circuit City that was a steal. I was able to get a bag and 3 tapes for only $11.99 on Wal-marts website.



5. I bought this in October. I just love it!! It's so easy to use and packed with features. The fader gives a professional quality look and feel to video footage. The video quality is fine for my needs(I'm an amatuer lol). The features are easy to access and a breeze to operate. I love the 34X zoom on this thing! I can stand on one side of the river and snap photos/shoot video in another country without any blur whatsoever. The images are crystal clear!They look as though all subjects are directly in front of me!!Downloading to PC is a breeze with the firewire cable(seperate purchase).If I had one complaint it would be that this model does'nt have a slot for a memory card but for the price I paid for mine it's no big loss. It's lightweight and so sleek looking. It performs relatively well in lower light situations. I'm very happy with the camcorder! I would (and have) recommend the JVC GRD750 to anyone in the market for a quality MiniDV camcorder. This is a purchase that gives a lot of bang without having to spend a lot of money. Thanks JVC!

5 comments about Panasonic PV-GS29 MiniDV Camcorder with 30x Optical Zoom.

1. Very small and easy to carry. Neat on the zoom, a bit hazy on the image stabilization but overall a good buy for the buck.



2. I like the camara and the zoom was good. I returned it because I was very disappointed with the resolution. In todays world, I expected better.



3. I bought this camcorder recently and am very happy with it. It is very easy to use and has good recording quality. The low light indoors isn't great but no camcorders in this price range are. I've used it several times and it works fine. I recommend this and the price is unreal.



4. This is very nicely built, simple features, takes still pics as well.
   As long as your not a professional filmer that needs HD, go for it.
   Video & sound quality is great.



5. I WANTED A NEW CAMCORDER. I DO LIKE THE VHS-C VERSIONS, BUT THE QUALITY IS NOT AS GOOD AS A HI8 FROM SONY WHICH I HAVE. I DID NOT WANT TO SPEND ALOT OF MONEY. I KNOW A NEW CAMCORDER WOULD BE TOO EXPENSIVE. I FIGURED, IF I CAN FIND A USED, BUT IN VERY GOOD CONDITION WITH A GOOD PRICE, I WOULD BUY IT. AFTER LOOKING AROUND ON AMAZON, I FOUND THIS GREAT LITTLE CAMCORDER. I WAS SO SURPRISED HOW SMALL AND COMPACT IT WAS, WITH FEATURES OF A VHS-C AND A HI8. IT USES MINI DIGITAL TAPES WITH A 90 MINUTE RECORDING TIME. IT HAS A BUILT IN LIGHT, LARGE LCD SCREEN, A JOYSTICK TYPE OF CONTROL, WHICH IS VERY EASY TO USE. YOU CAN PLAYBACK ON YOUR TV WITH THE RCA CABLES, OR USE A PC WHICH I SEE IT CAN DO, BUT I'M NOT REALLY INTERESTED IN DOING THAT, CAUSE I USE MY DIGITAL CAMERA. IN FACT, YOU CAN TAKE PICTURES ON THE CAMERA MODE. YOU HAVE TO PRESS IT LIGHTLY, CAUSE IF YOU DON'T, YOU CAN GET MORE THAN ONE PICTURE OF THE SAME THING. YOU CAN ACTUALLY HEAR THE SHUTTER WHEN YOU ARE TAKING THE PICTURE. THE ZOOM AND VOLUME CONTROLS ARE ONE IN THE SAME. WHEN YOU PLAYBACK WHAT YOU RECORD. ZOOM FOR RECORDING, VOLUME WHEN USING PLAYBACK. IT SAYS STEREO ON THE LOWER FRONT OF THE CAMCORDER. THE BATTERY LASTS A LONG TIME, BUT YOU ALWAYS NEED ANOTHER ONE, WHICH I ORDERED FROM AMAZON. IT COMES WITH A BATTERY CHARGER LIKE A VHS-C, SO YOU CAN USE THE CAMERA, WHILE CHARGING ANOTHER. IT FITS RIGHT IN THE PALM OF YOUR HAND, AND THE CONTROLS ARE GOOD FOR A RIGHT HANDED PERSON, IF YOUR A SOUTHPAW, YOU ARE GOING TO HAVE PROBLEMS, I KNOW, CAUSE MY SISTER IS A LEFTIE AND IT RUNS IN THE FAMILY. IF YOUR RIGHTHANDED LIKE ME YOU SHOULD HAVE NO PROBLEM. THE ONLY THING I DID NOT LIKE WAS, THE PLAYBACK IS NOT AS CLEAR AS A HI8, AND YOU HAVE TO MOVE THE CAMERA SLOWLY, CAUSE IT GETS BLURRY. ONE GREAT PLUS IS THE VIEWFINDER IS IN COLOUR WHEN THE LCD DOOR IS CLOSED. I HAVE NEVER SEEN THAT BEFORE, IT'S VERY HELPFUL. OF COURSE, IF YOU WANT A BETTER PICTURE QUALITY, YOU NEED A MORE EXPENSIVE MODEL, OR A HI8 WHICH I FIND HAS THE BEST QUALITY WHEN IT COMES TO USING TAPE CAMCORDERS. IF YOUR GOING ON A TRIP, IT'S FANTASTIC. YOU DON'T HAVE TO CARRY AROUND THE OLD-FASHIONED CAMCORDERS, WITH EXTRA TAPES AND LARGE BATTERIES. EVEN THE BATTERY IS VERY SMALL, BUT DOES NOT LACK QUALITY. THE CAMERA IS SMALL, THE TAPES AND EXTRA BATTERY ARE SMALL, HOW CAN YOU LOSE.... I'M GIVING IT A 4 RATING FOR THE BLURRY PICURE YOU CAN GET IF YOU ARE MOVING AROUND TOO FAST WHILE RECORDING. I HAVE YET TO RECORD OUTSIDE CAUSE I JUST GOT IT. LOOKING FORWARD TO THAT. I HOPE THIS HELPS. THANK YOU.

4 comments about Sony Professional HVR-Z1U 3CCD High Definition Camcorder with 12x Optical Zoom.

1. Indie Filmmaker here, always looking out for a better camera!
   
   The Sony HDV series is an astonishing technology
   
   Don't let people tell you that the footage is "too compressed" ---- technically, it is, but once it gets on screen, it looks stunning!
   
   I haven't done much filming with this camera ---- but I have seen its footage and edited its footage
   
   Both on television and the computer monitor, I was impressed with its 'look' ---- very detailed and extremely clear
   
   Editing was a BREEEEEZE with this footage! I edited on Final Cut Pro and could composite 5 layers all above each other, each with a different opacity, and FCP's real time engine kept up without having to render! Thus, the compressed footage makes editing EASY - but Sony has managed to make a beautiful picture out of this stuff too
   
   For the Indie Filmmakers out there ---- test one out before purchasing..... I find the Sony HDV to be the most clear look out there --- emulating a beautifully shot NFL game on HD..... but for cinematic looks, I still may stick with the Panasonic DVX100, as there is a more cinema feel to that one
   
   hope that helps
   
   HAPPY BUYING!!!!



2. The HVR-Z1U seems too good to be true. And it is.
   
   It promises a camera with full HD resolution and outstanding features for a reasonable price. In many ways, it delivers. The video quality is superior to the JVC HDV camera. Unlike the JVC, the camera offers full manual control and is a pleasure to shoot with professionally.
   
   Alas - for someone who expects and needs full HD resolution, the Sony is a disappointment. Pointing the camera at a resolution chart while viewing the output on a high resolution monitor (or on a computer after rendering to 1080i or 1080p) quickly reveals that the horizontal resolution is about 1200 lines, and vertical resolution is a little over 500.
   
   The pixel count is thus about twice that of standard video, not four times, as we perhaps hoped. The 1200 lines of horizontal resolution is pretty good - just about the same as 720p. But the vertical resolution is not very good at all.
   
   
   
   A little math tells the story. Sony advertizes 1.1M pixels for each sensor, and 1440 lines horizontal. 1.1M/1440 gives a maximum of 770 lines vertical, not 1080 as promised. The measured vertical and horizontal resolution is distinctly lower.
   
   An extensive web search revealed that the sensor has 1080 vertical lines, but only about 990 lines horizontal. To achive something closer to 1440 lines horizontal the green sensor is offset by half a pixel, and image processing is used to give a possible maximum resolution of 1440 on a black and white image. The problem is that the edge contrast beyond 900 lines horizontal becomes quite poor.
   
   To make matters worse, (or to degrade the vertical resolution to match the horizontal) the vertical lines are read out of the sensor in pairs, so that each field is a mixture of two adjacent lines. This gives the vertical the same poor edge contrast as the horizontal.
   
   It is possible by using the unsharp mask tool in Sony Vegas (or other editors) to improve the edge contrast. I use the maximum effect with the minimum radius in the Sony tool - setting the radius slider to .001 pixels. You must do the sharpening operation using a properties setting of 1440x1080. Slightly better results can be obtained by putting an additional unsharp mask in series with the first, set to half-effect.
   
   A major problem is deinterlace. Most editors (and most display devices) deinterlace by averaging fields, which reduces the maximum vertical resolution to 540 lines. You can add Mike Crash's excellent deinterlacer to the sharpening masks, and remove this limitation. Crash's smart deinterlace for Vegas can be downloaded for free - with patience and persistence.
   
   Sharpening and deinterlacing the image is very compute intensive. It takes me a good fraction of a week to do a two hour movie on a 3GHz pentium 4. But the result can be stunning. With the sharpening the Sony camera can give you a result that is close to a professional HD camera. I render to WMV9 rather than to MPEG2 - remember to keep the properties at 1440x1080. After the render is complete, you can re-render to 720p, adding an additional bit of sharpening to compensate for the re-interpolation.
   
   For best results always use a shutter speed of 60 frames/sec or higher. I have had mixed results with the steady shot option. Keep the camera as steady as possible, and try not to use more video gain than absolutely necessary.
   
   Bottom line - this camera produces video that is MUCH better than standard video, and significantly better than DV. But it would be awfully nice to have a camera that delivered the advertized resolution, and did it with a flat video frequency response.



3. I've chosen this camera for my short film after viewing some rough footage at a local studio. The colors that this camera can capture in DV mode are jaw-dropping! It comes with all of the manual controls you could hope for and they're very intuitive. I highly recommend this to independent filmmakers if you're able to rent them in your area. It does not offer the 'truest' cinematic feel but if you do some research on the web you'll find resources for things you can do in pre & post production to get the feel you're looking for regardless of the camera you use.
   
   For more filmmaking resources & sample footage of the z1, visit my website and click 'resources'.
   
   And for more updates on using this camera for my short film, visit my website and click 'films'.



4. I've used my Sony HVR-Z1U HDV camcorder in some very extreme conditions, and it it comes through on a regular basis. I shot Hurricane Katrina video footage during the storm (for StormStock) in driving 100 mph rain. At that time, I had purchased and was using a rain coat for the camera. It never failed. Previously, in Hurricane Dennis, the unit failed in the rain, without the coat. The screen went black. I dried it off with a hand dryer and it came back to life to be called back into action with Katrina.
   
   My HVR-Z1U has shot hurricane video, tornadoes, lightning, and other storm footage, often in the rain and dust. And, it keeps on going.
   
   The unit prefers mid-range lighting. It can shoot good footage if you give it that.
   
   Sony can improve this unit by adding SDI to output to HDCAM. I'd also like to see true 24P added and maybe variable frame rates.
   
   This camera is just a couple options away from being a professional system.
   
   Martin Lisius
   Prairie Pictures, Inc.

5 comments about Sony DCR-HC48 1MP MiniDV Handycam Camcorder with 25x Optical Zoom (Handycam Station Included).

1. I got exactly what I wanted: a camcorder that carries easily under a coat or sweater and can also take still pictures suitable for snapshots. Snapshots up to 4x6 are fine but not as good as my 7 megapixel Olympus, but since I can take pictures immediately instead of waiting for the camera to start up it has worked out that 90% of my still photos are on the HC-48.



2. This is a wonderful little camera. The night vision works great and it records just fine in very little light. I would definitely recommend this camera. You may need to buy accessories like the tapes and the duo memory stick if they don't come with the camera prior to being able to use it.



3. This video camera is smaller than my digital camera. It's easy to use and the only real problem I've had so far is learning to tape with one hand. It takes pictures in darkness beautifully. I've had fun playing with all of the bells and whistles. This is the first video camera I've purchased since buying a huge Panasonic camera in 1987. Lots of changes since then.



4. This camera is very easy to use, is lightweight and so far has had great battery life. I've had no trouble capturing my video using the i-link to USB cable as that's the only port available on my laptop. For me it's been great value for the price.



5. I took several months to research cameras and finally thought I would settle on this camera. I was wrong - I didn't settle, I totally satisfied my desire for a video camera.
   
   Pro's: Compact design / easy to use / works great in low-light / works great inside or outside / effective zoom / the fire-wire connection works seamlessly with iMac and iMovie / provides great sound / clear video - even on my 720p TV / lots of options like still photo, time lapse, and other video editing effects
   
   Con's: Too small if you have large hands or poor coordination / may take a couple of extra steps to get it to work on a PC / still pic's are less than great quality / need the base to transfer video with fire-wire
   
   Would I recommend this product to others? Not if I wanted my video to look better than theirs. ;-)

5 comments about Sony DCR-HC38 MiniDV Handycam Camcorder with 40x Optical Zoom.

1. I had researched for 2 weeks before I made a purchase on this video camera. I was started to look for one using USB connection but the picture quality is not what I wanted. I came across with the HD type as well but according to what I read it may not have the quality I wanted and the disk space usually save up to only 30 mins of good quality video.
   
   Anyway I back to the basic and get a Mini DV. In short I brought this according to all different review.
   
   I'm satisfy with the camera. It's not really a snap to use. I had to read the manual a little bit before I know how to do play back and get it connect to the PC. That part could be because I'm not a Sony person.
   
   By the way, I also brought the fire wire card along with this camera in Amazon. My PC don't have the interface and that's the only way you could transfer the video into the PC.
   
   The only draw back I had on this camera is the software come with the camera. It's not that user friendly but I was warned by others so I'm prepared for that. It's a kind of struggle. The software isn't easy to use but I get by it. I able to view the video in the PC and save as AVI that could be just viewed with Windows Media player. I wish the software is a little more user friendly.
   
   One more thing I wish is a little more people will talk about on the accessories. I didn't know there are any accessories could be purchase until I got the camera. On the box there is a leaflet about spare battries, universal charger, light, etc. I think that's alright though because after I registered the product with Sony they gave me a 15% off coupon.
   
   Another thing to note is on still picture quality. I know there are millions of people wishing to get a DV to take still picture as well. As far as my knowledge there isn't any DV able to do any high quality still picture. I tried on this one and it only able to make 640 x 480. I really think if people want good quality still picture they should get a Digital SLR instead of a DV to do the job.
   
   The overall rating isn't bad for this camera in my opinion.



2. I bought this camera as I wanted one that was easily carried because I travel a great deal. I read all the reviews prior to buying it and it has lived up to my expectations and the quality of the videos taken is excellent. I had second thoughts about it not having a light but it takes good videos in low ambient light conditions and the "night shot" feature works well.
   It is a very user friendly camera right out of the box. The only negative feature would be lack of a remote control but for a little more money, Sony makes a model with this feature. All around good camera for the price. You won't be disappointed.



3. I have an HC32 camcorder and my LCD display just died without much notice (it flickered one day and became dark with red hue and died). I searched the problem and it appears that a lot of people have shared a similar story on the net. It happened to my when my camera was about two years old. Similar problems have been reported on HC42 model as well. You may want to research this problem. I am not going to buy another SONY camcorder (it was my 3rd Sony Camcorder in 17 years...one of them still works). I was very happy with it till it worked. But, the LCD problem appears to be a widespread problem. Once the LCD display dies, you can't do much as most of the controls are through the touch screen.



4. This is my second Sony MiniDV camera (my dad dropped and broke my first one). It works great and provides good quality.
   
   There are lots of great comments and reviews out there, and I won't repeat all that stuff. Here are a few quick comments:
   
   - It's small enough to fit in a belly-pack or fanny-pack. That means it's easy to bring along. Cameras left at home don't deliver very good results!
   
   - I thought having the 40x optical zoom would be awesome. It is, but here's my caveat - it's virtually impossible to hand-hold the camera at full zoom and get a decent picture - even with the great image stabilization feature turned on. When you get past about 25x, you'll need a tripod or to brace the camera on a ledge or something.
   
   - Night vision (using an infra-red emitter to illuminate in total darkness) is a great feature, which most people overlook.
   
   Great stuff, as expected, from Sony!



5. Great value, easy to use. Good quality video, can't beat the 40X and features. I would recommend this camcorder to anyone looking for a quality, easy to use product on a low budget. But don't be fooled by the price, this camcorder has a better quality picture than my JVC that I paid $700.00 for three years ago.

5 comments about Sony DCR-HC32 MiniDV Handycam Camcorder with 20x Optical Zoom, Handycam Station, & Extra NPFP50 Battery.

1. Sony does a great job again. It could be a bit better in low light conditions, but with the 'back light' option it works well.



2. Working perfectly 3 years after I bought it with heavy use. Good quality videos too. Great buy.



3. This camera is not very good - poor video resolution after recording it on a memory card. The software is horrible and Sony tech support just plain lousy.



4. I once thought this was a great camcorder for all the reasons already noted. Great video and audio quality, easy to use, good price.
   
   But guess what? It's broken and out of warranty, and in order to even get a quote on the cost to fix it, I must send it to Sony, because Sony doesn't allow anyone but Sony repair their cameras any more. So, instead of going to one of the hundreds of capable and convenient repair shops in Denver, where I can get an estimate and repairs fast, I have to mail my camera to Texas. TEXAS!
   
   So what's wrong with it? The camera refuses to properly load any miniDV tapes now - I get an error that says "Reload tape" and the error message won't go away no matter how many times I reload the tape. Apparently this is a common failure, a quick google search shows this same problem in discussion threads all over the net. And, believe it or not, the most common suggestion to fix this error is to smack the camera repeatedly on the side to "unstick" a stuck part. This did not work with my camera, but good luck to you if you buy this piece of junk.
   
   This is the last Sony I will ever purchase. Been burned too many times by Sony now - a TV, a PDA, a digital camera, and now this. I'm buying a Panasonic PV-GS80 miniDV Camcorder to replace this doorstop. I bought an Olympus 790SW camera to replace my broken Cybershot, and it works great. I should have learned my lesson by now, but I'm brand-loyal to a fault. Sony pushed me too far this time. No more Sony. Never again.



5. Bought this to digitize tapes shot on my procam. Now I use this more than the HDV camera. Has all the controls I need but I wish it had the audio functions I miss on the prosumer camera. Never thought I would prefer this over the big brother. I haven't had disappointments with the zoom but I did install a wide angle adapter for better room coverage. Keep it mounted ALL the time.

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 Sony DCR-VX2100 3CCD MiniDV Handycam Camcorder w/12x Optical Zoom.

1. Alright there is so much to say about a camera like this but I'm gonna make it short for sure.
   
   I've had mine for a couple of months now and I still haven't learned how to use all of its functions. But, in the case of this camera, its a good thing. The camera has sooo many functions its overwhelming at some moments. But slowly I'm picking them up.
   
   I just used this camera as one of two cameras used for a short film and it seriously came through. The footage it takes in the HD mode is insanely perfect. The zoom is smooth when using the zoom ring on the end of the camera. I'm told that its an issue that the lens' aren't fully interchangeable, but the 20x Zoom is plenty powerful for most needs.
   
   One of the best parts is the stabilizer. The shots come out like you are using a tripod. It works amazingly well. Even better than the stabilizers on any of my Cannon Lens' I use for my still cameras. Simply amazing.
   
   I invested in a nice tripod that has a smooth operation and the 12 hour battery. You must get this battery. I use my camera all day and its great to never worry about power running out. Its even more necessary if you're using a light source connected to camera power.
   
   Taking that footage and transferring it over to your software (I used Studio 11 By Pinnacle) is pretty straight forward. You have plenty of methods of transfer as well. I chose to use HDMI cables and it always works out perfectly.
   
   Would I buy it again if I had to do it all over again? I gotta say I probably would. The only really bad thing about the camera is.... what I paid for it. Wow, I definitely was feeling a little tight in the chest as I drove it home.



2. I bought this to replace my defunkt Canon GL2 (tape drive mechanism failure - check the web for tons of dissatisfied Canon customers). I still had a bunch of mini-DV tapes to capture into my PC and wasn't ready to step up to an HD camcorder, so this was the nearest I could come to the quality I had grown to expect from my Canon GL2.
   
   The quality of the video this camera takes is fabulous and it's very easy to use. If you had a previous edition Sony camcorder, you'd be able to use this without so much as a look at the owner's manual.
   
   The only complaint I have with the Sony is that the still pictures it is capable of taking (rapidly too I might add!), are just not in a high enough resolution to make them suitable for much beyond supplementing your video clips. Perhaps there's enough resolution there for a 4x6 print, but not much more. Too bad... It would have been nice to park my Nikon at home and have this be my work horse. Perhaps the HD camcorders improve upon this feature. In a couple of years, I'll check it out.
   
   As an aside, the GL2 wasn't the only Canon camcorder I've had that died. Given their miserable track record for longevity, I will NEVER buy another Canon product.
   
   
   And a caveat. Buy a Mini-DV VCR to do the post filming grunt work. The camera manufactures would have you believe that you can do fancy editing work on there units. Once a camera's drive mechanism fails, the repair costs are staggering. So shoot your video with the camera, then rewind, capture and/or edit your film with a Mini-DV deck.



3. This is my first 3 chip camera and probably my top choice for years to come. Great quality in video and audio.



4. I recently opened my own professional wedding videography business, and after doing a lot of research decided on buying a pair of these cameras. I have never been so happy with an investment as I have with these cameras. They have all the features you could want in a camera: auto or manual controls for things like zoom, focus, exposure, shutter speed, etc, GREAT low-light sensitivity, high-quality mic, ports to plug in an additional mic, smart accessory shoe for additional lights or mics, LCD or viewfinder display, light filters, lens hood - it's great. Some of my favorite features are the light filters and the manual focus ring. The light filter will tell you if there's too much light coming in the lens (washing your picture out) and will tell you which filter to turn on. The manual focus ring is located right beside the manual zoom ring, and allows you to change your field of focus on the fly - great for getting some artistic shots.
   
   Bottom line - it's worth the price. Get this camera!



5. I've had one of these for 4 years. It's received fairly heavy use over that time with NO problems. Great in low or limited light-use situations. With a little practice, the manual controls are easy to reach and work very well. I've checked out the HD upgrades to this camera, and they really don't compare - yet. I love how good the footage looks in low- or poorly lit situations. (Sometimes you can't set up in your lights, especially when the CEO of a corporation only has 5 minutes to spare for a shoot, and it HAS to be in his/her office. If you don't need an HD camera, this little guy will serve you well. Why only 4 stars? The mic input is an 1/8' plug (which isn't a horrible work-around is you use high-quality mics) The placement of this jack isn't too good, and I've pulled the mic cord out by accident a time or two. Keep your heads clean and always monitor your audio with headphones. I also recommend a hard-shell case. I hope Sony will make a HD camera as good as this one soon.

5 comments about Panasonic PV-GS39 MiniDV Camcorder with 30x Optical Zoom.

1. You won't go wrong with a Panasonic DV. I've had a few models. I have several of this model for my business. They're rock solid reliable, nice and small for portability, and the quality of the recording is very good



2. I need an extra battery for my PV-GS39. I can't seem to find it anywhere. Can anybody give some info on where to find one.



3. I bought this camcorder back in August last year right after my vacation, not so smart but I needed a new one just didn't act fast enough. That's the lesson I learned here. Although you have a 1 year Parts warranty you only have 90 day for labor. You wouldn't think that would be bad but guess what, it will cost $200 for labor no matter how large or small the job. I unfortunately didn't test the video output through the television until recently when I discovered it wasn't working. I had never used so I'm guessing that it never worked. I tried to explain this to Panasonic service center but they weren't having it. I paid $299 and I cannot see paying $200 to fix something that didn't work in the first place. The moral of the story is, it's a pretty good little camcorder for the money. Just make sure you test every little feature within the ninety days because you'd be better off buying a new one if it goes wrong after that.



4. I bought this last Christmas for my husband. Here it is, November of the next year, and we still have trouble using it. It is NOT user-friendly! The connections to PC or TV are not easy, and forget that, just shooting movies are a challenge, especially if inside. There's a lighting feature we still haven't figured out, and apparently we have a lemon, as there are 5 blue bands that span across our movies in playback. Sounds like we're not alone...
   Also, I can't find any info on the Panasonic website about this model, or it's problems.
   
   Buyer beware!



5. So, I bought this camera, and truthfully I really wish I hadn't. I guess the only thing I don't like is even with the light that you can turn on, nighttime shots are really, really poor quality. I don't know what it is about this camera, or many camera's panasonic has put out, but the minute it gets a little dark - FORGET ABOUT IT!
   
   Other than that, the battery is long lasting and it truly is really simple to use - I mean no brainer, really!
   
   It's small, so I can take it anywhere with me and not think I am carrying something bulky- love to put it in my purse, other than the night thingy, its a fine camera.