Camcorders - Product Reviews

jrref - (November 14, 2004) I was looking for a camcorder in the $500-$700 price range and focused on the Sony DCR-HC40, Panasonic PV-GS120 and the Canon Optura 30. None of these camcorders are perfect. Each have their trade-offs. For example the GS120 looked great and it's 3CCD solution should give great color accuracy but because of the size of it's CCDs the picture resolution and image stabilization is not as good as the HC40 which has larger CCDs with more pixels. Also the GS120 produces a picture which is biased to red which is why the colors look warmer while the HC40 is biased to blue producing a cooler picture. Which method is correct is very subjective. It's interresting to note that both camcorders dis

scrounger - (April 19, 2004) I am a point and shoot type: Kids/parties/family stuff. No pro training or desire. I just wanted a new camcorder to video the little ones as they grew up. I haven't bought a camcorder in 10+ years and I did a lot of research. I was ready to buy a Sony DCR TRV38, but the new DVD recorders had just come out. These are 2 different categories of camcorders, but each has its appeal. I decided to give the DVD201 a try for the convenience of direct DVD recording. I have compared the two (borrowed my parents' TRV38 for comparison) side by side. Here are my impressions: 1. Size: the DVD201 is smaller and felt good in hand. Very easy controls. 2. The DVD201 didn't have a touch scree

Ladislao - (June 06, 2004) There were a few things that I had to consider 1) How "future-capable" is this camera. (Can this camera keep up with my needs in future, like say, five years from now, all I can say is YES!). 2) Picture quality. (Has a CCD chip for more accurate color (although a 3CCD chip is better, it's MORE expensive). EXCELLENT- 570 line resolution!!! And with the cables that come with it, they also include a S-video connector for sharper resolution-very impressed). 3) CUSOTMER SERVICE. (What can I say, HITACHI IS ONE OF THE BEST !!! I only say this because of the MANY, MANY, hours spent on hold with other companies. THEY ARE FAST! Very little "hold-time." I mus

mighty18 - (10/02/2009) Extremely versatile HD cam loaded with manual settings, including: 1080i or 480i; 24 or 30 frames; 24 Mbps. The perfect choice for trips. The video (and still photo) quality is amazing. Extremely fast start (from power off and sleep mode) means not missing great shots. The few low lights, for me were: 1) limited 10X zoom (but it's due to the large CMOS sensor) 2) Stabilizer not very effective against shakes from walking 3) A bit noisy in low light but better than previous models 4) A view finder would be handy at times.

ygao333 - (08/31/2009) the best deal for me to have the stuff purchased on line from www.fumfie.com. Sony XR500V with the lowest price and brand new, which also included all standard kits when getting it. In addition, on schedule deliver makes me enjoy my favorate activity of shooting for beautiful scene. Thank you again, Fumfie, will continue to support you with frequent purchasing.

lordphi - (08/16/2009) I cannot believe all the negative reviews. I love this camera. I have had it four four years, carried it all over Paris in the inside pocket of my jeans jacket and was super easy to pop it out, shoot, and stick it back. The image quality is great, just the normal "confusion" when shooting in uneven light like near a window or bright sun and shadow. Have recorded my granddaughter's growing up for 3 years. Find it flexible and easy to use on the run. Without an external mike capability you will get problems with background noise and the shooter's voice booms if they speak. But never had any of the problems these other people claim. Best value for the price I ever found.