On 18 Oct 2001 11:23:38 -0700, bigdav160@aol.com (David McNally) wrote:

>mjaggers@bigfoot.com (Mark Jaggers) wrote in message news:
<84010a63.0110180653.47713d74@posting.google.com>...
>> I am a few questions I am hoping others can help. I am finally going
>> to purchase a new camcorder. Here are a few things I am looking for,
>> please give opinions.
>>
>> 0 lux
>> Firewire
>>
>> These are the 2 most imporat things I am looking for. I have seen
>> that Sony, JVC and I think a few others offer 0lux. What is everyons
>> opinions?

>Why? This is a feature that I'd never use. Blurry, black and green
>figures moving across the screen.

Actually, the image can be quite high-quality sharp B&W,
and it can be useful even without using IR illumination
in light levels too low for good color - the camera is
noticeably more sensitive with the IR-blocking filter removed...

>> What is the big difference between digital8 and miniDV?

>The size of the camcorders and the tapes. MiniDV cams tend to be
>smaller and lighter. Just the thing to get some people to use them. D8
>is good if you already have Hi8 tapes you want to digitize. The cost
>of the DV tapes (mail order) is slightly higher than Hi8. Otherwise
>the formats are the same. Note that Sony is the D8 company. Some, like
>myself have a real problem with Sony quality.

Hmmm...
I've had about 15 Sony Mini-DV camcorders, and nary a
problem (that didn't come from wear, and then only
with one - the one I use as a deck...) - purdy gud
record, I think...