Need Camcorder Advice

[dr_roberts49]

I recently upgraded my computer to a P4C 2.4Ghz. Got top end video, audio, etc, plus DDR3500 running in dual mode and hyper-threading enabled. My ABIT mob has USB 2.0 and firewire connections. Running Windows XP Pro.

One of my reasons for the upgrade, was to get all my 8mm video tapes onto CDs. Unfortunately, my Sony Camcorder was dropped by my son (accident) and no longer works. All my tapes are in the Hi8 analog format. I do have a Hauppauge WINTV PCI card which has capture capabilities, but I'm not really thrilled with it.

Here's my situation. Since I now need to purchase a new camcorder. I want to go digital, and Sony does make a model (DCRTRV350) that will play the older analog 8mm tapes. I've priced this model at around $475-$499. It also has still photo mode, and a lot of other bells & whistles that I like. It's just a little larger than the newer minidigital format. The minidigital format is not an option, because I have a lot of the older 8mm analog tapes that I need to convert to digital. So far, this particular Sony model is the only digital model that will playback the analog tapes. I can also download the videos to my PC through USB 2.0 or the firewire with this model without additional hardware. It comes with software, but I have Microsoft's Moviemaker software, which I'll probably use instead.

My other option, is to buy a Sony Hi8 camcorder, which will play my analog tapes, but it's not digital. These models can be had for around half the price of the digital model I described above, but I'll have to use my current capture board or buy another.

I would like some advice from my fellow TECHMO people. Should I just go ahead and get the more expensive digital camcorder that plays my older analog tapes, or should I get the cheaper Hi8 analog model, and then purchase a better capture card for my PC. After I'm done with getting my old tapes on CD, I could eventually upgrade to the new minidigital camcorders.

Any suggestions would be appreciated. This is something I want to purchase before Christmas. Thanking all in advance.



Robert

[Siliconjunkie]

I have a DCRTRV250 (digital8) and am very pleased with its performance. Never so much as a hiccup and it will share batteries with my Sony digital camera.

The quality when you transfer it via Firewire is excellet. MUCH better than you can do with any vid capture card.

As for the photo feature, its a novelty. The quality is terrible and it is clunky to get them off of there. Its a compromise. If you want digital pictures, I would reccomend a digital camera.

I would look into the 250 and see what features it has, I paid 399 at frys.

If you want a sample of captures PM me and I will send you a link.

Either way, go with a Digital8 since it will let you do your Hi8 tapes as well.

[dr_roberts49]

Thanks Siliconjunkie. I had a feeling that transfer from camcorder via firewall was the way to go. That's what I wanted to hear.

I read that the DCRTRV250 would record in digital on the Hi8 tapes (the DCRTRV350 can also), but could not playback Hi8 tapes that were recorded on the older camcorders that recorded in analog format. On Circuit City's website, that was the only complaint in customer reviews regarding the DCRTRV250 model. It wasn't backward compatable. As for the photo mode, the DCRTRV350 model can also record the photos on a memory stick and is limited to 640 x 480. It will also use the same memory stick to store MPEG1 video. Nice feature, but I already have a nice digital camera. I'm mainly concerned with being able to play my older analog tapes and convert them to digital. The DCRTRV350 will allow me to do that. So far, it's the only model I've come across that does. Thanks again.

Robert

[Siliconjunkie]

Sounds like you did your homework and the 350 is the one for you. But, it is always good to hear from someone to affirm your findings.

[dr_roberts49]

I bought one of the first models Sony came out with. Some of my friends thought I was crazy to go with the 8mm format instead of the VHS format. I have a ton of tapes with my kids growing up, trips to Disneyland, vacations, all kinds of stuff. I use to dub the tapes over to VHS, but quite doing that a few years ago. I was just waiting for PC technology to get better. The time arrives, and my camcorder breaks. My 3rd model. I'm pretty sold on the Sony DCRTRV350. I've done all I can on the internet, now I have to go out and visit the stores. Thanks again and Merry Christmas!

Robert