I'd recommend you get the follow-up model of this camcorder, the HDR-XR500 from 2009. It has a more modern image sensor giving much better low light sensitivity as well as an improved image stabilizer. The viewfinder also pulls out making it easier to use.
Wow, what an amazing camcorder, do you know what the physical size of the HDD is? It's great that these camcorders have such capacious storage options, you just want to be a bit careful moving the camcorder around whilst recording because Hard disks don't like being knocked around too much. What does the docking station allow you to do?
@Lachlant1984 IT has 60Gigs, the harddrive casing is sturdy unless you are throwing the cam on the ground you should be ok. The docking station allows you to charge the camcorder and connect to your computer, however these two functions can be done on camera since it has both connections on camera.
Your Hi8 XR camcorder is still my favorite, but this one has been working very well so far. It's nice that Sony still gives you the extra features which most other brands have removed even from their expensive models (accessory shoe, mic jack, etc.). Hopefully some day you can upload a video in HD so we can see its true quality!
The Hi8 XR camcorder is great, but this one is better, and more portable...
It seems like things such as mic jack and accessory shoe are slowly returning on higher priced equipment. By now even the Samsung top of the line models (wich are crap technically) have these features. I guess the producers are slowly starting to run out of stuff they can built into their camcorders, so now they remember all these features :)
The Sony accessory shoe will only take Sony equipment, because it's a special size. I am planning to add a Sony stereo microphone, because the internal mics like to pick up sounds from the HDD.
The non original battery indeed is a piece of junk. The capacity is only half of what it should be, and the InfoLithium system doesn't work at all, when the battery is empty, the camcorder still thinks it has 10 minutes left so it just runs out of power and shuts off right in the middle of recording :P
The lens piece I added can be used with every camcorder using a 37mm lens, I already used it on my old Panasonic SDR-S26 camcorder.
The original video file was 480p. YouTube must have reduced the size when they processed the video. I can not upload any higher resolution videos because my internet connection is too slow.
I like how thorough your review is
bakonfreek 3 months ago
definitely getting this for a production company my friend is starting and including me in.
bakonfreek 3 months ago
@bakonfreek
I'd recommend you get the follow-up model of this camcorder, the HDR-XR500 from 2009. It has a more modern image sensor giving much better low light sensitivity as well as an improved image stabilizer. The viewfinder also pulls out making it easier to use.
DrCassette 3 months ago
@DrCassette I will get the xr500 when me and my friends start selling stuff...
bakonfreek 3 months ago
Wow, what an amazing camcorder, do you know what the physical size of the HDD is? It's great that these camcorders have such capacious storage options, you just want to be a bit careful moving the camcorder around whilst recording because Hard disks don't like being knocked around too much. What does the docking station allow you to do?
Lachlant1984 1 year ago
@Lachlant1984 IT has 60Gigs, the harddrive casing is sturdy unless you are throwing the cam on the ground you should be ok. The docking station allows you to charge the camcorder and connect to your computer, however these two functions can be done on camera since it has both connections on camera.
allianceFiLifeDotCom 1 year ago
Your Hi8 XR camcorder is still my favorite, but this one has been working very well so far. It's nice that Sony still gives you the extra features which most other brands have removed even from their expensive models (accessory shoe, mic jack, etc.). Hopefully some day you can upload a video in HD so we can see its true quality!
vwestlife 1 year ago
@vwestlife
The Hi8 XR camcorder is great, but this one is better, and more portable...
It seems like things such as mic jack and accessory shoe are slowly returning on higher priced equipment. By now even the Samsung top of the line models (wich are crap technically) have these features. I guess the producers are slowly starting to run out of stuff they can built into their camcorders, so now they remember all these features :)
DrCassette 1 year ago
@vwestlife
The Sony accessory shoe will only take Sony equipment, because it's a special size. I am planning to add a Sony stereo microphone, because the internal mics like to pick up sounds from the HDD.
DrCassette 1 year ago
If you record in standard definition, what is the file format of the video?
AccordionManiac 1 year ago
@AccordionManiac
The file format is .mpg
DrCassette 1 year ago
I agree about HD, I also think it's pointless unless you have HD tv and software. Nice purchase!
AccordionManiac 1 year ago
I wasn't expecting an HD camcorder.
A piece from an 90s model fits?I know Sony's good,but..damn :)
My tv has x.v.colour(and yes it's a Sony)
I wasn't expecting a mic input.
I wouldn't buy a non original battery
Hope to see a lot of videos from now on in very good def
costellom5 1 year ago
@costellom5
The non original battery indeed is a piece of junk. The capacity is only half of what it should be, and the InfoLithium system doesn't work at all, when the battery is empty, the camcorder still thinks it has 10 minutes left so it just runs out of power and shuts off right in the middle of recording :P
The lens piece I added can be used with every camcorder using a 37mm lens, I already used it on my old Panasonic SDR-S26 camcorder.
DrCassette 1 year ago
Comment removed
TheDanielHolt 1 year ago
Very interesting camcorder with great features.
But please, upload the next video in at least 480 pixels.
Success with your new cam!!
legOldtimer 1 year ago
@legOldtimer
The original video file was 480p. YouTube must have reduced the size when they processed the video. I can not upload any higher resolution videos because my internet connection is too slow.
DrCassette 1 year ago