On 4 Mar 2002 00:18:05 -0800, jonesn@my-deja.com (Nigel Jones) wrote:

>To go with a Sony DCR-PC9
>
>* Battery: Have most people gone for the NP-FM50 or NP-FM70. Going
>around disney so might decide to go for the 70 instead, even though it
>seems quite a bit bigger. Anyway happily using one? OK? doesn't get in
>the way /feel too heavy?(and will the
>70 on the camera fit into either case below) Or a 70 clone from
>somewhere like
>eurobatteries? Presumably manufactured by Fameart or Hahnel? Both OK?

The M70 does add bulk, but it is not uncomfortable in use; multiple M50 batteries are more expensive, but
retain the
cameras compact envelope; both give amazing run-times. If
you are away from a recharger for extended periods, the M70
is a good choice. I would avoid non-Sony battery solutions;
I have had bad experiences with them, but YMMV...

>* Case. The accessory pack ACC-PCM seems to contain one kind of black
>case (I've only seen pictures not felt it)+ battery+tape for around
>51+p&p ukp cheapest, the LCM-PCY2 is a silver semi-soft case. I'm
>guessing the black one is a simple fabric case like on a 35mm compact
>camera, whilst the silver case is soft/padded - but a little bigger.
>Recommendations? Don't want too big a case. Will carry extra
>tapes/batteries, but that can be a seperate shoulder bag, it doesn't
>have to be in camcorder bag. - Something with a shoulder strap would
>be nice, not too bulky, but providing some protection against being
>dropped/knocked

Padded cases with canvas exteriors of close to ideal size,
with long straps, are common in the US at many outlets, and
cost only about $10-15 US for good ones.

>* Tapes - Good price for Sony IC Excellence tapes in UK (want to try
>the infochip). Pricebusters is 7.45 each + 6.50 deliv. (all uk
>pounds). That's about 44 ukp for 5. Better prices anywhere? And the
>other Sony tapes? Is it a lot harder search by date/photo without the
>infochip? Do many people use it? I've also heard of problems swapping
>tapes? Experience with PC9?

Do not swap *brands* - and I would not bother with the
expensive "IC" type - get either "PR" or "EX" Sony, or
settle on another good and commonly-available brand.

>* UV filter - was going to get basic 30mm UV from Jessops. Ok or
>should I get a more expensive brand?

Depends...
I avoid the "Tiffen" brand (and relabelled filters that
are actually Tiffen, like Sony, I think...) whenever
possible, but other cheap filters can be good. "Hoya"
is excellent, as are the top-quality common brands
like B&W, etc. Multicoating is unnecessary. BTW, it may
be useful to get a 30->37mm step-up ring and then stay with
the more common 37mm accessories. Get a lens shade, too.