On Wed, 12 Jan 2000 16:02:40 GMT, amfoeckler@my-deja.com wrote:

>I'm trying to decide between a Sony TRV-900 and
>TRV-10. My wife and I just found out we are
>pregnant (1st baby) and I therefore want a high-
>quality video camera with a great picture, the
>possiblity of posting and sending video to my
>wife's mother via the internet, and the ability
>to take still photos. Price is not an issue. I
>like the small size of mini-dv camcorders -- the
>TRV-10 is amazingly compact (I have not seen a
>TRV-900 yet).
>
>The research I've done so far demonstrates that
>the TRV-900 has the better picture. I'm
>wondering if the image quality difference is that
>noticable for family video. Most videos will be
>taken indoors with normal lighting -- although I
>would like some video of the baby sleeping at
>night w/ low light.
>
>I also am curious if the memory stick capability
>of the TRV-10 is something that swings the
>balance to the TRV-10. Are the zoom capabilities
>something to consider?
>
>Finally, the baby isn't due until September 2000 -
>- we just found out. Should I wait for a newer
>model?

There is always "a newer model on the horizon" - but
some of the oldest models of mini-DV camcorders are
still the most capable... (see my camcorder comparison
article, with frame grabs, sound descriptions, and
reviews, on my web page under "I babble"). The
difference between the TRV-10 and the TRV-900 in low
light is, uh, "like night and day" (I couldn't resist;-).
Minor features (like memory stick, zoom-range, etc.) are
not relevant if the picture under the lighting conditions
you will use is not good. BTW, I would avoid basing a
decision on still-picture ability - the quality of even
the best isn't worth printing (just good for web use).
Get a good dedicated still digital camera, if you want
that function. Also BTW, if size is important, look at
the PC-1 - it is VERY small (still available from some
dealers). Buy now, and get experience shooting before
something important comes along...;-)