Sharp VL-NZ155U
Written: May 18 '03
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Pros: Wonderful price. Great performance for a beginner. Easy to use. Two Batteries.
Cons: Neck Strap not included. So small it's difficult for big hands.
The Bottom Line: Get one while you can!
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| BeachShopper's Full Review: Sharp VL-NZ155U Mini DV Camcorder |
Having just graduated from a Sharp VL-E49 8mm ViewCam this unit is remarkable. It is MUCH smaller, has almost every feature you can have in a mini DV camcorder. And it's currently being sold at a price that can't be beat! This is probably in preparation for next year's new model. I'm talking about the fact that this camcorder is available for under $399, not including a $100 rebate from Sharp. (That's under $300 for a brand new in the box mini DV camcorder!).
I will admit that I miss some features of the much more expensive Sony digital8 model I use at work. The VL-NZ155U dosn't have a built-in light, or infrared features, it is also missing a microphone jack. (However, a trip to RadioShack can easily solve that with a makeshift adapter).
A convenient feature is the ability to take VGA resolution still photos and store them on the built in SD card. While not as sharp as the new multi-megapixel cameras, still a nice convenient feature for snapshots. Much better than carrying around a Polaroid camera!
A want to mention the quality of Sharp ViewCams. I have had the VL-E49 since 1997 and have made over 200 8mm tapes with it including rewinding and fast-forwarding. I also dropped it onto a brick fireplace about three years ago. These things take a beating and keep on working. I'll also mention that I visited a Fry's, where they have the Sharp VL-NZ105U model on display. With the sales guy right next to me I literally almost tried to break the camera. I tried to twist and pull the halves apart with reasonable force. I open and shut the tape door harshly. I even pushed the tape loading mechanism even though it tells you NOT to, unlike my old 8mm. It still functioned perfectly. We even dropped it onto the display table while it was taping. The sales guy mentioned that people tend to torture test the Sharp ViewCam models like this because they look flimsy compaired to the one-piece models everyone else makes. About the only complaint he has ever heard regarding these models is with the Nintendo style control switch. He says that in the store some customers try to twist it, or really bang on it, and it DOES break. It's the only part of the camera that he has seen fail, other than a cracked screen. However, under normal use this should not be a problem.
I will torture test my new camera at toddler birthday parties, at the beach, and down ski slopes this winter. But I'll try not to crack the screen, or beat the control switch!
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 349.00
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Epinions.com ID:
BeachShopper
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Reviews written: 13
Trusted by: 2 members
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