Beautiful camera but Canon refuses to fix the critical design flaw: MOTOR NOISE
Written: Jan 21 '03 (Updated Jan 21 '03)
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Pros: Loaded with features, well built, compact size, miniDV format.
Cons: MOTOR NOISE gets recorded and is *very* noticeable on playback.
The Bottom Line: Don't buy it unless sound quality is not an issue.
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| digThisXL's Full Review: Canon Elura 40MC Mini DV Camcorder |
This review will be short and sweet. Please keep in mind that this is the first camcorder I have ever owned so I have no bias from older technology & larger sized camcorders.
The Elura 40MC is loaded with features and is a novice (maybe pro's too; I'm a novice) camcorder's dream. It's small, lightweight, easy to grasp & shoot video. It seems very durable even though many of the moving parts are very intricate.
HOWEVER, the noise that the motor makes when recording is picked up by the mic. When you play back your video, I would say about 25% of what you hear is that buzzing, whining, annoying motor noise.
I got a great deal on this camera ($699.00 before $100 rebate! tax) and would have kept it if it wasn't for the motor noise.
I even called Canon. They recommended I buy an external microphone for $150. "The camcorder picks up that sound because it's so compact." Nonsense I told them - I am currently testing other brands in the store and you can get a compact Sony or Panasonic that does not have this problem.
I have read that someone took their camcorder apart and insulated the microphone to solve the problem. However I would assume this voids your warranty. Not something I want to do on a $650 purchase.
Stay away from Canon unless sound quality is not an issue for you. I have heard from others that their zr40, zr45, and zr50 models have the same problem.
Recommended:
No
Amount Paid (US$): 599 plus tax
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digThisXL
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Reviews written: 2
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