Review 4 of 11
Summary: I am upgrading to the TRV11 from an 8 year old 8mm CCD-F555E, and I have been totally floored by the exciting new things I can do with this camcorder.
For those thinking about other formats: dont' do it. Other than the high minimum lux ratings (easily fixed by buying a camera light), and the high price (will go down once more people start buying DV) there is really no downside to investing in this format.
With all the major players adopting this format, guess which one will still be around a decade from now?
The TRV11 has innumerable features - for assembly editing, for digital effects, etc. However, I can't see anyone ever using all these features. I personally prefer adding effects like titling, fades, wipes etc. during post production. That way, my master is not affected if I change my mind about what I'd like to do with a scene.
If you own a computer, I'd recommend you buy Sony's editing package that comes complete with a Firewire card , 2 miniDV cassettes, a Firewire cable, and the StudioDV editing software - all for $99, an excellent deal. This makes editing so easy, that my 5 year old son, assists me in getting my tapes the way I want them.
Then, when done, you can simply record your work back onto DV, and you're done.
In fact, one of my next projects is to make use of the analog In port (another excellent feature) and digitize all of my earlier 8 mm recordings!
In my opinion, the LaserLink is a waste of time. Most TVs/VCRs have front inputs, so this is more a marketing device, IMHO. Also, once i have copied my edited tape to VHS/MPEG, I don't really need the camcorder to view it any more.
I considered the TRV20 for better still images. But, come on, do you really think you'll use a 1 mega pixel camera as your primary camera? Also, do you really want to lug a laptop around on your vacation, to download your memory stick images? I'd rather spend the extra money toward a decent 2 or 3M camera, which took the IBM 340MB microdrive in its CF slot to store images.
The stills on this camera are adequate for viewing on a TV - and for placing on web pages.
This camcorder is being phased out now - so you'll get a lot of good deals out there. I bought mine at Best Buy for $880. Strengths: The camcorder is small, designed well (except for a bottom tape compartment which I don't really mind - I don't use a tripod much), and has an excellent set of manual overrides (which I use often).
Analog input - to convert all your old tapes.
Most of all - the Sony brand name. Again, IMO, Sony is tops for all things camcorder :-) Weaknesses: The picture suffers in low light conditions, so buying a light should be your first order of business.
The exposure control is a bit too sensitive to light, and automatically darkens the picture when there is even a sliver of sky visible. So, i'd suggest using the manual override as often as possible.
Similar Products Used: Sony CCDF555E (European model) Customer Service: Past experience: pretty good at their local service center in St. Louis Park.
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