Tag : networking capability, minidv 2megapixel, stick bluetooth, wireless connectivity, sony dcrtrv80, 3 5″

Company : Sony List Price : Amazon Price : $795.95 Used Price : $539.00 Average customer review :

Features

• Compact MiniDV digital camcorder with 2-megapixel imaging
• 10x optical, 120x digital, zoom with Super SteadyShot image stabilization
• 3.5-inch touch-panel color SwivelScreen LCD display; includes 8 MB Memory Stick for still image and MPEG1 capture
• Improved Bluetooth wireless networking capabilities
• NightShot O Lux infrared system with color mode for recording in total darkness

Product Description

The DCR-TRV80 MiniDV Handycam Camcorder doesn’t just deliver exceptional-quality digital video, digital audio, and 2.0 megapixel digital still images. This unit also features BIP (improved Bluetooth capability, enabling peer-to-peer data transfers between Bluetooth products) networking, USB streaming, the revolutionary Carl Zeiss Lens T coating for a 70% improved reflection rate, and a sprawling list of powerful features and design elements. An added bonus is the new touch panel (with included stylus) that can be used to access the functions of the camcorder.

Customer reviews

Excellent
The Best Camcorder i have ever had by far. Bluetooth is the coolest thing, and the picture quality is supurb. I would reccomend this to anybody who wants a high quality camera. Yes, you spend a few extra dollars, but in the long run it is worth it.

Wow
What a camera indeed. I just got it three days ago and after reading the manual I see there will be a lot of learning ahead for me. There are so many features this camera has I know I will not use most of them. The video is sharp and the photos are better then expected (acceptable but I will still use my digital camera when needed or preferred). The supplied 8 MB memory stick is only worth a tease, you will have to get at least a 128 MB or greater! Being in the Air Force and stationed in Germany this will be one treat to carry along on up coming trips!

Satisfied User
I am technically competent, but a novice at video photography. Therefore, I spent weeks reviewing a a number of various cameras. I ultimately decided on the TRV 80 because of: the HAD technology, the 3 1/2 touch screen, the digital still, the still pop-up flash, along with the features rich capabilities of this camera. I have used it for about a week and have found it to be very easy to use. The controls are intuitive and the manual has been very easy to navigate. You should also consider the need for various accessoriies. I purchased it with a bundled package which included: tripod, 2 additional batteries, wide and telephoto lenses, case, tapes, cleaning kit, USB card reader, and a four year MAC parts and labor warranty. Add on package was less about two hundred seventy dollars and well worth it. Also spent a long time looking for editing software with good reviews. Settled on PYRO Digital Video, which indluded a 1394 PCI card and software compatable with the Sony camera. They have beginner, intermediate and Pro versions available. So far I am extremely pleased with the camera, and accessory packages. I am able to take great videos now and when I master the advanced features I’m sure the quality of the movies produced will improve. Highly recommend this product and suggest you consider the add on packages, especially the 4 year warranty.

Overpriced; Bad Manual; Horrible Support
Buy another camcorder! This one will be a waste of your time and money. On paper this camcorder is great. However, not only is it overpriced and full of extraneous features. It is also difficult to use, has a poorly written manual and horrible support. I tried the SONY product support line at 888-449-7669 twice, but got little help.

Additionally, writing to the memory stick produces poor quality images, and there is no built in video light. Finally, the PC software that comes with the camera leaves much to be desired.

My excitement about buying this camera and all its accesories has been replaced with utter contempt for SONY. I now understand why the company has been having so many problems.

Would not buy a Sony again
Well it started out good… It was nice having high-quality Mini DV recordings, the wireless connectivity, firewire to my computer, and all the other bells and whistles. BUT… after having this Sony for a couple years, and the warranty is out, I am stuck with a dog! It worked fine until right before the warranty ran out. While it was still under warranty, it went in for repairs due to audio cutting out, and all they did was clean it. After a few weeks, it started happening again. TWICE they were unable to fix it! I gave up and just bought a Canon. If Sony can’t even fix their own products, I don’t think I want to buy them!