Sony Handycam CCD-TRV98 Hi-8 Analog Camcorder

Pros: Sony quality, reputation and tons of features.
Cons: Heavy. Features take a while to learn.

Having children plunged me into the world of video.
Formerly scoffing at those who lugged camcorders
around with them, I joined the club. Grandparents
far away claim to enjoy having film of events they
can't see in person....

Pros: Great Brand Equals Quality!
Cons: None!

My experience so far using this product has been great. My baby is due in about 4 days, and I wanted to have a great quality camcorder for years to come. I did my research, talked to my company's Media Expert, and he recommended Sony 100%. He asked me...

Pros: Lots of features, easy to use
Cons: A tiny bit heavy to carry for long periods of time without a strap.

I bought this camera to take home videos of my kids after my old VHS camcorder died. After having done a lot of research on-line and on foot for a good quality camcorder for my budget, I came upon this camcorder.

It has a lot of neat features...

Pros: Features
Cons: Reliability; Warranty; Lack of real customer service; Price;

!!!!! WARNING - DANGER WILL ROBINSON !!!!!

Beware of this camera. Even Sony does not believe in the reliability of this camera only giving it a 90-day warranty for labor (the most expensive part). They give a 1-year parts warranty, but mostly...

Pros: Great pictures. Super features like steady shot and night shot. Easy to use.
Cons: Heavy. On/off switch hard to move. Expensive for a Hi 8.

I have 3 Sony camcorders dating back 15 years. The other two still work. The CCD-TRV98 stopped "taking pictures" on Christmas day '05. Up to that point, I didn't know a Sony could break. I have everything Sony...TV, DVD Player, etc. They want over $200 to fix it. I bought a new Canon DV.

Pros: sony is a quality product
Cons: I had to change the default exposure to get a good shot.

Since writing my previous review I have discovered I can get a good picture by manually setting the exposure. It "remembers" my setting, so I don't have to re-set it every time I shoot. I like Sony, so I have re-rated it a 4. They would have gotten a five, if the default exposure didn't operate nearly like backlit mode.