I bought this specifically on the recommendation of a computer magazine for the 2 likes above, ie to convert old analogue camcorder tapes to DV (worked brilliantly, no messing with codecs required) and to backup edited movie masterpices to DV tape.

No hassle analogue to DV (Firewire) conversion; DV input for PC backup; low cost

Grainy dull picture; incredibly loud noise from motor picked up on soundtrack

I am not a "heavy user of video, so I was really disappointed with the Sony. It is about 3 years old, but gee, I haven't shot more than 11 1-hour tapes with it. With playback, and re-recording with Movie Maker, I estimate that it has less than 40 hours of use. (I digress here.

I really like the miniature joystick selector; It works quickly and easily; Great colors; This replaces my Sony DC-20, which is not working right; I was able to create a movie on the PC (w/Movie Maker) and write that back to the Canon tape, which recorded flawlessly

Can't think of anything; yet

The sub $1000 camcorder market is still primarily the domain of Mini DV tapes. While a few manufacturers have managed to bring out well priced DVD video cameras, these are still fairly rare.

Slim frame; good quality video; big zoom; increased battery capacity

Computer kit only transfers images; light not powerful enough; still pictures of poor quality

As part of my job I have to give presentations - something I fear and loathe. I lack the ability to exude confidence and I felt that this would hamper my progress. As an idea a colleague suggested that I borrow his digital camcorder - film myself giving a presentation and then work back through it...

Good quality digital camcorder - easy playback - takes digital photographs - x 25 zoom - sensitive microphone

Sensitive microphone

a good one ,u can always get this at the best price with the deals

The Canon ZR700 is the upper-end model on the redesigned ZR-series by Canon. Major design improvements over last year's model include a new joystick control for simple menu navigation, a 30x optical zoom, a 2.7 inch LCD screen for true widescreen, and a MSRP of just $400, good for budget buyers .

-Improved handling; -True 16:9 widescreen format; -Marked upgrade in low light performance; -Better battery mount than the Elura 100

-Lacks a mic in jack; -Poor viewfinder design; -Connection of hand strap to tape compartment can lead to breakage