"RU42" <nospam@nospam.com> wrote in message

news:r5c820d99jd897pet7ntb4jfd7j6kpej54@4ax.com...

> I am purchasing a Sony TRV22 MiniDV camcorder and I have been looking

> into accessories. I tried to do some 'review' searches and there is

> not much out there commenting on accessories. Maybe you have some

> experience with these items. (Yes, this similar setup is being asked

> several times about different accessories - I felt the proper Subject

> line was better then a shot gun approach.)

>

> Accessory: Sony HVL-20dw2 (dm2? is what is on sonystyle.com)

>

> Does this item really work?

> Is it noticable the change?

> Any drawbacks?

> Any other non-Sony branded items work as well or better.

>

> I would like an external light that works good. I can see many 3w

> units out there on the market. Ritz carried a Sima sl-9 for under

> $40. Is it worth spending extra money to have one that is 10w/20w

> capable?

The 3-watter is close to being too weak to help with the TRV22,

but it is at the top edge for acceptable power for not offending

those it is aimed at. The 10-20 will eat batteries quickly, put out

noticeable heat, and REALLY annoy people you video (I used

these with a 6" hoop with shear white cloth stretched over it

suspended several inches in front of the light to reduce some of

these problems, but on-camera lights are still obtrusive...).

--

David Ruether

d_ruether@hotmail.com

http://www.David-Ruether-Photography.com