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Reviewed by UK Guest, 28th Dec 2006. |
| Review Summary: Little Gem... |
Overall Score: 5/5
 
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Review: I knew exactly what I was buying when I purchased this Canon MV890 digital camcorder. I love the widescreen feature, that it also records in normal full screen mode and that I can plug in a microphone to capture quality sound at the source. I'm currently completing a qualification in the art of film-making all down to this camera. It has features that were missing on more expensive makes.
It's lightweight and easy to hold with an adjustable strap - even for my big fingers.
Also, Amazon has consistently had the best price for this product - when I bought mine for £179 all-in, other companies were charging up to £299 ex delivery!
It's fairly straightforward to operate. There's an 'easy' mode for the complete novice and a 'professional' mode for when you want to tweak things to suit your needs.
The integral lens cap keeps the lens clear of dust.
It doesn't work in complete darkness (duh!) but I did find the low-light 'night mode' a little grainy in places.
Based on work I had done with this camera, my employers bought two more.
With a decent tripod and a good microphone (I made a boom from a paint roller extension pole), it can give you great results.
I recommend the Canon BP-2L14 Long Life Battery (I bought two!) as it is great for long recordings - after two hours of recording, with the screen on, the battery was still working away happily.
I have used a 1.4GHz PC with a firewire card to capture video - make sure your software can handle 16:9 widescreen. Though the best system to use so far has been an iMac G5 with iMovie HD.
My only gripes (if they can be called that) are that the camera does not have a DV-in socket or an attachment for a spotlight. Also, you have to remove the tripod adaptor as access to the tape is on the bottom. A neck or wrist loop would have made it a bit more secure when holding it.
Recording to VHS or DVD or computer is possible with the supplied SCART plug and leads.
Check out Amazon for great deals on Sony MiniDV tape packs also! |
Ratings
| Value For Money: |
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5 |
| Review Score: |
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5 |
| Recommended? | |
Yes |
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Digital Cameras