Advantages: CHEAP! Plays 8/Hi8 and converts to digital output
Disadvantages: Heavier and larger than many miniDV camcorders

...mech) but places digital code (DV) on the tapes rather than analogue. In most of the range it also enables old analogue tapes to be played back (so you only need one gadget to bridge the gap). The downside is that a 90 min Hi8 tape used to record DV only gives 60 min, and the format is larger than miniDV, making the gadget larger. Checking out the Sony range I was driven by this minimum spec and cost. This lead me to the DCR-TRV238 at £389 delivered. Its' features are listed in the features section below. I've had it a few weeks now and it's been field tested. Yes, it does everything it says on the tin and one important extra that is not advertised. Things I like: The zoom is smooth and variable speed. The display is bright and crisp (and more pixels than the next model down). It has all the functions I need, especially the standard... Read review

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Advantages: worked well, long lasting
Disadvantages: big and heavy

...Sony CCD TRV 238 Hi 8 Camcorder With a new baby on the way we thought it about time we got rid of our rather large and bulky video camera and purchased a new one. Much to the joy of my rather tight fisted boyfriend I was adamant that we needed to get one! The new one is much small and better than this old one but I thought as the old one did me proud I would just let you all know how well the old one worked before giving it up to the big electrical store in the sky I have had this old Sony Camcorder for a little over 5 years I would say and it really has done itself proud and recorded lots of memorable moments. It set me back a little over £350 when I first bought it although I expect you can now get this model for a lot, lot cheaper as it has become somewhat outdated. At the time though it wasn’t one of the best you... Read review

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