Digital Camcorder n00b Questions

zveruga

Senior member
Aug 24, 2000
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Hi all... I've been browsing the stores for a good Digital Camcorder... I read the specs (I did my HW ok!!) but i still dont get some things:

1) The S-video output -- will it allow me to connect the Digital Camcorder to my VCR for quality copy to VHS tape? If my VCR doesnt have an S-video input, is there an adapter or converter I can buy, and how much will it cost me. Copying digital movies to VHS tape at no worse than hi-8 quality is an absolute requirement for me.

2) Most cameras I looked at are "firewire" compatible. My computer has no firewire port. Will I be able to copy movies to my HD for editing using USB? What is the advantage of getting a firewire card (I will if I have to)?

3) Any recommendations on brands of cameras? I was looking at Sony DCR-TRV38 it looks very good but the price... quite steep for me. I want reasonably good quality daytime shots, and indoor shots. By reasonable good quality I mean, no worse than my Sony Hi-8 camera.

Thank you so much, I wanna get this info in time for my aunt's b-day!!