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Reviewed by UK Guest, 31st Aug 2006. |
| Review Summary: good camera - poor interface |
Overall Score: 3/5
 
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Review: There is no doubt this Sony DCR-DVD105E camcorder is excellent as far as taking digital video is concerned. However be warned - if you are interested in editing your digital video using software such as Adobe Premier, this camera uses 8cm DVD disks, and you would think it would be just a case of popping it into your PC DVD drive, wouldn't you. But no, no, no... Sony, in their infinite wisdom, have provided two alternative output file types, neither of which are editable. I have tried numerous programs which claim to be able to convert the Sony (VOB) files into AVI files which CAN be edited, but so far none of the programs I have tried have made the conversion successfully with the particular files this camera creates (they have time-sync data encoded with the video). This is infuriating, as the edit facilities Sony provide "in camera" are extremely limited.
So, if all you want to do is point and film, then yes, this is an excellent piece of kit. However, if you want to be able to edit your video on a PC, you will need a VOB to AVI conversion program as well.
Also, be aware that the 8CM disks will store around 35 minutes of video, and the battery that comes with the camera will last only 30 minutes or so before needing a recharge, assuming it was fully charged when you set off. These need to be born in mind if,like me, you intend to take this on your family holiday.I had a bag full of disks, but didn't have a second optional rechargable battery, and so when out for the day, only managed 20 to 30 minutes of filming before the battery gave up. The zoom facilty uses huge amounts of battery power. So, if you are going to be outdoors for more than 20 - 30 minutes, I highly recommend you also get the optional, larger battery available for this camera. |
Ratings
| Value For Money: |
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3 |
| Review Score: |
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3 |
| Recommended? | |
No |
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Digital Cameras