On 9 Dec 2002 09:39:27 -0800, rtbond@optonline.net (Rob) wrote:

>Are there any other SONY TRV-840 users out there that find it
>difficult to operate the variable speed zoom capability on this
>camcorder? This is probably my major complaint with this unit (other
>than that I'm fairly happy).

The zoom control on the D8 cameras is TERRIBLE!
The zoom control on most of the Sony 1-CCD Mini-DV
cameras of the "horizontal" type is VERY POOR.
The zoom control on most of the Sony 1-CCD Mini-DV
cameras of the "vertical" type is POOR.
The zoom control on many of the older Sony 1-CCD
Mini-DV cameras was OK.
The zoom control on most of the Sony 3-CCD Mini-DV
cameras is GOOD (except for the 950), but not great.
SIGH...! ;-)

>I beleive the zoom has three speeds, that are selected based on the
>amount you deflect the zoom level (or is it based on pressure
>applied?). When using the zoom during a shot I most often want to use
>the slowest zoom speed, but often find myself "over-shooting" the
>slowest speed and getting one of the faster zoom speeds. I find this
>very frustrating. Is there some technique I'm lacking? (other than
>avoid zooming during your shots, which is not always practical for me)

No...;-)

>Does any one know if getting a SONY tripod with LANC-based zoom
>control on the tripod handle would provided any better zoom speed
>control?

Yes, but the tripods are terrible. Buy the cheapest,
and remove the Lanc controller (give away the tripod...),
or spend the $180 for the Canon Lanc controller, which
has selectable zoom rate (you can then "mash" the rocker,
and the speed will be only the one selected...).