Welcome to the digital recording world

Author's Rating:

Pros: Lightweight, clearly marked buttons, easy hookup to other electronic equipment, all cables provided.

Cons: Cannot operate zoom feature with one hand holding the camcorder. Cannot load provided computer software.

The Bottom Line: 
I recommend the Sony Digital Hi-8 HandyCam for folks who want good quality videos and the flexibility of many features. It was a Consumer Reports "Best Buy", as well.

Author's Review
I have been using this camcorder for a month. My previous JVC VHS-C camcorder lasted us for 9 years with one repair along the way. I didn't completely understand how digital recording worked while still using a tape, but once I played back the new digitally recorded Hi-8 tape, the improvement in quality was obvious.

This camcorder's features are easy to find. The buttons are clearly marked. When pushing the "fader" button, I tend to jar the camera quite a bit trying to push the button hard enough to make it work. Due to my small hands, I am unable to reach the zoom button when holding the camera with just one hand. The velcro strap is a nice touch for different sizes of hands. The camera is also very lightweight compared to what I used before.

The LCD screen is easy to use. The LCD screen can be flipped over so that the subject can see himself being taped and the kids get a kick out of that. It also keeps attention directed toward the camera, if necessary.

I like that this Sony has Nightshot ability and also a Backlight feature for use when subjects have a bright light behind them.

Charging the battery is very easy and the power cord/charging cord is provided. All necessary cables are provided in order to hook up this camera to a computer and to the VCR/DVD player. I have not been successful in using the software Picture Package 1.0 on my computer. I may have plugged in the USB cable before loading the software and now I can't get the software to load at all. I am looking forward to recording these digital quality tapes onto DVD's with my new Toshiba DVD Recorder. I will also utilize the Still-Shot feature from this HandyCam when I am transferring images to DVD's. I have already hooked up this camera to play back the tape and connecting the camcorder to the DVD player was very easy and straight forward.

Overall, I have liked using this new camera and look forward to using some of the digital features with my computer and DVD player. It seems to be a high quality camera for a good price.