Stand aside guys (Sony Handycam DCR-PC4)

Member Name: fitznstarts

Product:	Sony Handycam DCR-PC4
Date:	10/06/01 (480 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Size, Functions, Quality

Disadvantages: Viewing screen in sunlight

I was instantly amazed. Not only is it very small indeed, in fact, to my horror people often confused it for a camera rather than camcorder until the screen appeared!

The camera is full useful functionality:

* a flip-out screen which is touch sensitive controlling the fast forward, rewind, camera settings and special effects (fade in and out, colour or b&w etc).

* The Long-play function gives 90 minutes of recording from a 60 minute tape

* It has very clever night and super night settings which enabled me to take clear pictures from an underground, unlit aquarium. The picture at this point does look like a negative (white eyes) but the subject is instantly recognisable.

* The microphone is not great unless the subject is very load or close up. However, a £60 JVC clip-on battery powered mic has easily fixed that problem.

* The battery life is adequate at around 60 mins for the standard. Reduced use of the side screen or rewind/fast forward will give maximum battery use. The £130 3hr optional battery (while bulky) is a useful addition when you're on holiday

* Being small means that it comfortably fits into a small bag

* The auto-focus is pin sharp and very rapid

* 40x digital zoom means that you can pick up aeroplanes in the sky as if they were nearby

* With the correct digital tapes on screen editing and subtitles are possible

* The leads and infrared control with the camera mean that you can plug the camera into your television or VCR for playback or record to VHS easily.

* An £80 Belkin USB adapter will allow MPEG or JPEG download to PC in seconds. Picture Quality is outstanding

* There are a host of accessories from wide-angle lenses to waterproof cases which means that this little camcorder will fit your every need, your wallet and your pocket!

Summary: