Sony HDR-HC3 4MP High-Definition Handycam MiniDV Camcorder w/10x Optical Zoom

Sony HDR-HC3 4MP High-Definition Handycam MiniDV Camcorder w/10x Optical Zoom Reviews
Other products by Sony Ratting 4.5 Out of 5.0 Special Offer Total New 5 Total Use 5

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CL) U) SONY HDR-HC3 HI-DEF CAMCORDER

Technical Details

- Records and plays back both high-definition (1080i resolution) and standard-definition video on MiniDV
- 2.1-megapixel ClearVid CMOS image sensor; 1.43K effective
- Variable-speed Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* 10x optical zoom lens; digital zoom to 80x
- 2.7-inch widescreen touch-panel LCD
- Super SteadyShot image stabilization
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 ""TROUBLE" *** C:32:11 Error Code ***" 2010-06-10
By zaneyaa (USA)
I was considering getting a Sony HC3 until I read this forum thread


looks like it happens a lot with this camcorder



GOOGLE THIS:

Sony HDR-HC3 Tape Door Won't Close with C:32:11 Error Code



Also a negative YouTube review comes up....



guess I will skip getting one now.................

 "sony handy cam" 2009-12-26
By Michael R. Anderson
Item was as described, although I was told that the cord included would work in spite of the correct cord was not. The ad did say the correct cord was not included and it was a quick fix. I would do business with this seller again, they were honest and tried to help me out. I am very very pleased with the item and so is the church that it was given to. Thank you so much

 "Great camcorder that uses DV tapes for recording" 2009-10-26
By Andy Schack (n FL)
I wanted an HD camcorder but was turned off by the units that used a hd for storing the video, this unit took care of that. It uses the regular DV tapes you can buy just about anywhere. My experience with the battery has been very good but it wouldn't hurt to buy an extra. Video quality is great and playback is a snap since it has an hdmi output. The video quality DOES degrade when in a low-light situation. A good "for instance" would be when we went to the aquarium in Gatlinburg, the video of the fish was very sharp but when I panned to my family (who was lit only by the light from the tank) the video got grainy. The built-in flash is EXTREMELY strong. Only problem I've had with the camera part is that it doesn't always focus as fast as I'm used to so give it a second or two. I've transfered some video to my Sony VRDMC5 via the dv output and the quality is pretty good though down-converted. Price around...got mine for $399.

 "Good camera but way over-priced and notoriously terrible customer service" 2009-04-02
By P. Horne (Oakland, CA USA)
This was a great unit when it came out, but now it's just WAY over-priced.




Mine just died after 2 years, and I'd only used it about 15-20 times. Sony wants me to pay more than $500 for a flat-fee repair. Unbelievable.



Do a search online -- the error message I got was really common, and MANY people got the same $500 assessment.



I'll never buy Sony again.

 "Met Buyer's Expectations" 2008-08-26
By J. Kieft (Miami Beach, FL USA)
The product showed on time and well shipped. I suspect the product box was opened. However, all materials were enclosed and were in "Like New" condition. The is an older model so I expected it. Thank you for the smooth and good transaction. Yes I would buy from this seller again. - John


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Panasonic Pro AG-DVX100BP(S) 3-CCD MiniDV Proline Camcorder wi th 10x Optical Zoom

Panasonic Pro AG-DVX100BP(S) 3-CCD MiniDV Proline Camcorder wi th 10x Optical Zoom Reviews
Other products by Panasonic Ratting 5.0 Out of 5.0 Special Offer Total New 5 Total Use 14

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1/3" 3-CCD 24P/30P/60i DV Cinema Camera with CineSwitchTM Technology, CineGammaTM Software and IEEE 1394 Interface

Technical Details

- Allows synchronous setting of time code values among multiple cameras
- 3 CCD image system; 24P/30P cinema mode; manual operation
- Wide-angle zoom lens perfect for small-room shooting, close-ups, and self-recorded interviews
- High-sensitivity slow shutter (in cumulative) function
- Professional digital video camera
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 "It's great to have a camcorder that works in low light!" 2010-04-08
By lighten_up_already2 (Kirkland, WA USA)
Wow, I should have bought less stuff in general and bought better stuff! I decided to take the plunge and buy this, the last of the great SD camcorders, because I wanted to get good video of indoor events, like birthday parties, Christmas mornings, and weddings.




I just recorded my first wedding with this unit. It was performed in a converted barn with the light so low that candles were placed along the aisle for ambiance. There was also some narrow, small and bright track lights about two thirds of the way toward the ceiling and on either side.



I cranked the gain up to +12 just so I could see everything through the LCD monitor, shot the wedding, and hoped for the best.



Well, now I'm watching it and there's not graininess and the colors are accurate. It's like I'm right back there. I'm sure no consumer grade unit could have pulled this off.



Sure, the learning curve is a bit steeper, but it's not bad. There are likely features you'll never use, and it is possible to damage the unit if you don't know what you're doing, so it's a good idea to really study the manual when you first get it. And by all means get an external microphone. It makes a huge difference.



Camcorder, about $2500. Footage, priceless.

 "Excellent all-around camcorder" 2010-01-07
By Ien Chi (Atlanta, GA USA)
I've used this camera for 3 years and it has not failed me. With its 3 ccd chips, picture quality is outstanding. The ability to save presets is practical, and the camcorder offers multifarious choices for the versatile types of shots one would like to achieve. It is perfect for some higher quality filmmaking, which is what I used it for. If you don't believe me, watch a film I've made with it: [...]


The film also shows decent performance in lower light situations by the dvx.

I'm moving on to hd, but I really don't think there are better sd cameras out there that offer true 24p/30p at such high quality picture. The only possibly negative thing is the mic, but almost all internal mics on camcorders aren't that good anyway.

Overall, highly recommended. Excellent gains for the price.

 "A classic" 2009-08-12
By Darin Dipietro (federal way, wa usa)
In the age of HD this camera is still rock-solid and holding it's own. Stunning SD image, great features and laid out logically.

 "A great camera." 2009-05-27
By THOMAS BRANDSTETTER (paducah, ky usa)
I did a great deal of research before I bought my DVX100B. With the rising popularity of HD, prices on the DVX will be dropping. It is still a very versatile camera. Images are excellent and the camera is easy to use. Check out the DVX User website.

 "Best camera in this price range." 2009-03-15
By J. Mero
The camera allows for tons of control (exposure, white balance, sound levels, stereo, light filtering, auto or manual focus, external xlr mics, etc.). Overall it's a great camera that allows you to get the shots you need. The handle zoom and record button are great for low shots with the LCD giving a full vibrant image. When you hold the dvx-100b in your hands it's well balanced and sturdy so you know it can handle some wear and tear.


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Canon XH-A1S 3CCD HDV High Definition Professional Camcorder with 20x HD Video Zoom Lens III

Canon XH-A1S 3CCD HDV High Definition Professional Camcorder with 20x HD Video Zoom Lens III Reviews
Other products by Canon Ratting 5.0 Out of 5.0 Special Offer Total New 8 Total Use 1

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For the professionals who require a smaller, lighter weight HD camcorder but who won't give up capability and performance, Canon offers the XH A1S. Our latest in a family of high quality HDV camcorders, the XH A1S delivers advanced features and a wide range of image parameter controls to make your vision a reality. Starting with the superb Canon Genuine Canon 20x HD lens with Professional L Series Fluorite, the XH A1S adds 3CCDs, each of which is at 1440 x 1080 pixels (1080i). It also means you can be sure that your shooting in the field will be the best it can be with Canon's SuperRange Optical Image Stabilization. It corrects for a wide range of camera movement and vibration, and combined with Instant AF (Auto Focus) you'll get ultra-quick, accurate focus. The DIGIC DV II HD image processor finishes the picture with improved color reproduction and noise reduction - for a final result that delivers excellent image quality. To further ensure that your vision is realized, the XH A1S gives you features that let you make manual adjustments to fine-tune your video- the ultimate in total image control. For those situations in which you need to let your camcorder take care of exposure and image controls, the automatic settings on the XH A1S will expertly assist you. You'll find flexibility, versatility and capability in the extensive array of features and optional accessories of the XH A1S. It is bound to meet and exceed your highest expectations. The XH A1S also comes with Canon's innovative SuperRange Optical Image Stabilizer (OIS), which combines gyro- and image-sensors to give image stabilization through a wider range of camera motions. Some image stabilization systems correct one type of camera motion or vibration better than another. But Canon's SuperRange OIS corrects for a wide range of camcorder motion: the fast vibration you'd experience while recording from a moving car; the medium-speed motion of hand-held

Technical Details

- Genuine Canon 20x HD video zoom lens with Professional L Series Fluorite; Independent manual focus. zoom, and iris ring
- Three 1/3-inch native 16:9 CCD with 1.67M pixels (1440 x 1080); 1080 HD resolution with choice of 60i, 30F, and 24F frame rates
- Canon DIGIC DV II HD Image Processor
- Complete Customization: Iimage adjustments, display adjustments, custom functions; Nine custom presets and two custom keys
- 2.8-inch Widescreen LCD (207,000 Pixels) and 0.57-inch Color Widescreen EVF (269,000 Pixels)
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 "Drop Dead, Kick Ass" 2010-05-13
By G. Mercado (South Florida, USA)
I run and own one of Florida's most reputable paranormal teams "Team Phenomenon | Paranormal Bad Boys TV" and we need to high quality footage for our films. I looked at many other cameras but the XHA1s was by far the clearest in resolution. This camera is a snap to work with and the overall quality makes it worth the money. This is one of our main cameras we use for production of our films, videos and documentaries and if I could I would buy a second in a heart beat as backup. The camera battery life is exceptionally good and the features give your video that clear HD eye candy you want. This is the independent film makers top choice of cameras and I can get why, I simply call it an Orgasm in a box. because that is how you feel when you first get it in the mail.




My only two cons is that the front microphone head is kinda wobbly and it doesn't shoot to hard drive, Digitizing tapes can put extra stress on the heads. An hour long HDV tape equals to 12GB of hard drive storage so make sure you have an extra 1.5TB of external HD backup for your projects and never overwrite the original tapes. I buy my HDV tapes from Walmart which are 6 for $20 and work beautifully.



G.Mercado

Team Phenomenon Inc | Paranormal Bad Boys TV

[...]

 "Awesome!" 2010-04-25
By G. Conrad (North Hollywood, CA USA)
As others have noted, this camera is not for the casual videographer or the faint of heart. But, if you're looking for a superb prosumer camcorder, this is it. Packed with features, a great value for the price, with awesome video quality. Highly recommended.

 "Fabulous. Wonderful. Great!" 2009-10-11
By Julie S.C.Y,
I love this camera. If you don't have a lot of experience with prosumer cameras (as in my case), the first look may be a bit intimidating (a friend said, "It looks like you're filming tv news"). Especially as I added a Rode shotgun mike (not sure it does anything other than make the sound louder, but...still checking it out).




You can't rest the camera on your shoulder, but the image stabilizer helps and the grip and buttons are all well designed and easy to reach. I struggled through the manual, but fortunately bought Dan Curran's dvd about the xh-a1 which appears to be almost identical. This was a -huge- help. I can't recommend it enough if you are at all unsure of what you're looking at. He goes through the simplest things (putting the shoulder strap on) to some very technical settings that you can do. The dvd saved me -so much- learning time and also prevented some careless mistakes (like letting sunlight through the viewfinder).



This camera feels like a terrific tool that can do whatever you need and the picture quality--even on Auto--is beautiful. Having the two XLR terminals will make a big difference, too. The versatility and design really meets such a variety of needs--way too much machine/expense for "home video" (it's not the kind of camera people forget is pointing at them), but great if you want to shoot training films, web videos, independent films.



Technology has changed so much in the 20 years since I was in film school--and it's still hard for me to believe that such a great camera, capable of such a quality product, is available for under $4000.



Very impressed. Highly recommended.

 "Great!" 2009-09-14
By A. Pitera (Michigan)
I love this camcorder. I'm not particularly tech-savvy or a 'pro' (working on it) but after reading through the manual I am now able to do pretty much everything I want. The quality of the image is great, as is the price when you compare it to other HD camcorders available. It arrived really fast too.

 "Great Cam for Pros and Novices" 2009-09-08
By Michael Kern (Ketchikan, AK USA)
This Canon cam has been a great investment to my company. It was easy to learn, fast to set up, and a pleasure to use; even when all the settings are on manual. All of the important controls are programmable hard buttons. Focus, Aperture, and zoom are all on the lens barrel for easy access. The picture is clear and the computer interface to the camera is a breeze. This is a real winner.


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