Need Camcorder Expertise

“Sony Handcam (DCR-HC85)?

Does anyone have this camera or know anything about it? If I pay $550 plus a $150 service plan, am I getting swindled???”

“yes”

“Hmmmm....

We managed to get Best Buy to drop another $50 on the camera-- We got a "floor model" (which is why we bought the service plan...).... But they gave us a gift receipt, so we have until after Christmas to return it if we don't like it...”

“What is the format of the camera?

Mini DV, Mini 8?

Don't buy the service plan, it is a waste. You could send it bac to Sony if you had to and they will fix it.

I shelled out serious dollars for my Sony DV Cam last year.

You guys want me to pick out a winner for you? I used to work in TV.

Shoot me an e-mail backpakn2@sbcglobal.net
last edited: 11/17/05 10:20:48 PM”

“WK,

I bought a Sony DCR-HC85.
It was an "open box" model (i.e. a demo model)... It was missing several accessories, so I went back there and got them to bring the price down to about $495.

We took the service plan because I figured that if anything happened, we don't have a box or any type of UPC to send it back to Sony. Also, they give you a battery for the camera every year for 4 years, so I figured it might (for once) actually be worth the extra cost.

(and Best Buy has a no interest until 2008 financing, so we're going that route to make it easier for us.)
last edited: 11/18/05 1:07:53 PM”

“This is a mini DV Model, correct?

The digital camera that is built in with this camera is worthless. Mine is the same way and I paid a lot more. You can try to use it, but the mega pixel rating is like 2.0.

It is a nice camera, and if it is a mini DV, you got a great deal.”

“Yes, a mini DV.

I won't even bother with the actual "digital camera" part--I have a 6.0 Megpixel Nikon D100, so no need for that!


My friend has a similar camera, although I don't know the version--she paid a lot more, but that was 7 years ago, when the technology was still new...

We had tried using the digicard on her camera-- and the video was absolutely worthless... But if you load up the video from the tape to your Computer-- it's really nice and sharp!”

“My CanonZR50 bit the dust, needing $250 in repair. Rather, I'd thought I'd just buy a new vid camera.

Any opinion or information about makes/models to consider?

Thanks,”

“Been awhile since I was in the indusrty and bought one.

First, I would ask how much, tops, do you want to spend?

The technology has changed (cameras with hard drives, 3 CCD, HD) a bit since I bought my Sony.

I would stick with either a Panisonic or a Sony camera because these are the most known in the professional world.

email me and I can help you pick out something that fits your budget.”