My old Samsung camcorder died this year so I bought a Sony CCDTRV228 as a family Christmas present. As you would expect from Sony the build quality is faultless although the standard battery is very slim and only runs about 45 minutes (I am picking up a heavy duty one for my trip to Budapest on 3rd January).
The LCD viewing panel turns 360 degrees, so if you have the urge you can watch yourself while you film. The panel display is crisp and the controls are will laid out. You have the normal thick instruction book, but as with most things electrical, I handed the camera over to my teenage son, and he sussed it out in no time.
The picture quality is very good indeed, but as mentioned in another review, the digital zoom will loose some quality. There are various special effects you can add, and its possible to dub over/replace the soundtrack, something very useful when you have sobered up and realise you can't understand a word of what you said at the party the night before. Also included is a remote control for when you want to set up the camera and record you and your loved ones together. The low light recording facility is also useful for partys and camping trips etc.
Overall, I am very happy with the camera and as its on offer for about £179.99 at Argos just now, I would say 'Treat yourself'.
As an extra xmas present I picked up a Hauppgage TV card for my PC and am learning how to download film from the camera for recording onto blank DVD (another review looming I think)
Happy new year to you all
How helpful would this review be to a person making a buying decision? Rating guidelines
Advantages: Low Price with Great features,Ease of use,working zoom Disadvantages: recording from external output not possible but at the quoted price u cannot demand it
Advantages: Low Price with Great features,Ease of use,working zoom Disadvantages: recording from external output not possible but at the quoted price u cannot demand it
Dec 30th, 2004
helpful by (75%):
somewhat helpful by (25%):
