Sony DCR-HC96 MiniDV 3.3MP Digital Handycam Camcorder with 10x Optical Zoom (Includes Handycam Station)

Product Description

3.3-megapixel CCD (2.05 effective) * digital photo mode with built-in flash * variable-speed 10X Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* optical zoom lens (digital zoom to 120X) * 2-11/16" widescreen color touch-panel LCD * color viewfinder * Handycam Station for easy connection to a TV or PC *

Customer Reviews:

good family camera.......2007-12-23

This is the first digital camcorder I've owned. It replaced our old analog Canon. I researched cameras for months before I decided on the Canon Elura, which very shortly after became very hard to find. We are on a budget, and I wanted the most bang for my buck. So I researched for several more weeks and decided on the Sony DCR-HC96 MiniDV. I wanted to stick with the MiniDV format based on the reported superior video quality (of which I have not been disappointed...much better than our analog), and also because I have many analog cassettes I wanted to transfer to digital. This was one of my main purchasing requirements and this particular camera advertises the analog-to-digital passthrough. However, I have not been able to do the transfers because I would have to still be able to play the analog tapes on the old camera while the transfer is taking place, and our old camera doesn't work anymore which is why we were in the market in the first place. So I'm disappointed about that and will have to figure out another way to play the tapes while they are connected to the new technology.
Other than that, I have been pleased with the camera. The only other things I can think of after using it for a few months are: it needs a light!!! Still photo quality is okay, not great; would be better with a light. I will have to (eventually) purchase one for the shoe. Zoom under the right hand placement is a little too sensitive (my Canon had the same kind of toggle switch, but much better sensitivity). A lot of reviews I read stated more than a lack of enthusiasm for the LCD panel. I don't mind it at all and didn't think it was that bad. Of course, I read the instruction manual from cover to cover and played with the functions a while to get used to everything before I did any serious recording. The only disadvantage I have found with it is when I am trying to edit the bank of still shots (I only recently purchased my video card) the LCD buttons cover up the bottom of the photo and I can't tell sometimes if it's a keeper or not, especially if it's a closeup. Too much of the face is covered up by the buttons.
I am a mother of three young children and overall this camera serves my needs. I would purchase this camera again. Hopefully, though, in the future Sony will make a few improvements to make an even better camera in this price range.

An almost perfect choice.......2007-12-05

Spent weeks researching which camcorder to get and decided on this one. Why? The large sensor (1/3"), the MiniDV tape format, the hot shoe for either external mic or video light...and the almost universal positive reviews. Do not regret getting it at all, but here are the things that I found lacking...most solved by some ingenuity and throwing more money at Project Camcorder.

After I got it, read reviews for the few Sony mics that would work with the hot shoe, and nobody seemed impressed. Oops. However, I bought a mic jack adaptor that fits onto the hot shoe, so I can connect an external mic of my choice. So got a used shotgun and found cabled workaround to use my Olympus stereo digital voice recorder as an external mic. Realized with iMovie that I could even record the audio track separately on the voice recorder (say for a seminar speaker) and replace the soundtrack in iMovie. That would free the hot shoe for a video lamp. Anyway, so far I've worked around all shortcomings, even to using a portable dvd player as a large video monitor.

I hope to keep working with the camera, but so far am so satisfied with the picture quality under all circumstances that I have not gone beyond the Easy Mode. I do not do large long programs, but short YouTube programs, and mostly shoot short video segments that are edited together. The still feature is nice also, to get sharper still images to work into the program. Would buy the camcorder again, and might buy another one day to for "two-camera" work.

The Best 3-Star Camcorder You'll Ever Own.......2007-11-28

The DCR-HC96 is a really good camcorder. I debated and debated whether or not to rate it 3 or 4 stars. Perhaps it lies somewhere in between. But in the end, though its grievances were minor, there were just too many to justify a 4-star rating.

But let's start with the biggest positives:
* Excellent video quality and color, even in dim light - perfect for me, and was the most important factor in purchasing this camcorder, since most of my footage involves recording my toddler stumbling around our house.
* Very lightweight and super small.
* Tons of features for the advanced user, and a great "easy" mode for novices.

Now, the cons:
* A soft motor noise is audible on playback, especially if the recording is done inside - this was the real kicker for me. The whole reason I purchased this camcorder was because of its excellent video quality inside, so I'm basically doomed to hearing the motor on most of my footage. It's not horrible, but it's definitely there.
* There's no light on the camera. And Night Shot isn't what it used to be. Not impressed with night-time recordings.
* The Handycam Station is cumbersome.
* Photo stills are good quality, but the color is really washed out.

Also, I was really wanting more than a 10x optical zoom. And I'm really not crazy about having purchased a digital-8 tape camcorder in the year 2007. I feel like this thing will be obsolete in 5 years. But, I can't technically hold these complaints against the DCR-HC96 since I knew that going in. But it's worth noting, as these were additional concessions I had to make to get the excellent low-light quality at my $500 price point. The touchscreen seems to be one of the big topics of discussion for this camcorder, many users citing they either love it or hate it. I'm sort of neutral on the whole thing. I don't love having to press on my LCD screen for easy controls, but it works well enough as long as you don't have big hands.

I can't stand having spent $500 on a Handycam (after months of research) that I don't adore. And I debated returning it for something else. But in the end, I guess I'm willing to live with all of my complaints to achieve the great "inside-recording" quality... but just barely.

Could have been a contender, but quality and support woes hold it back.......2007-11-22

If you get a working one, this is a really nice camcorder. it is remarkably small, quiet, good ergonomics and is loaded with features. A relatively large 1/3" image sensor promises solid low-light performance, and this is one of the rare models that accepts analog input. It also comes with a hot shoe for a variety of accessories. If you read the reviews and other customer comments, it is clear that a lot of people are very happy with their DCR-HC96. So, why the one star review? Simply put, this is a risky purchase.

I was never able to get the Firewire/i.LINK connectivity to work with this camcorder. I tried different firewire cards, different cables, and tried it on an older Windows XP system, a new Vista system, and two different Mac OSX systems. I could connect via USB, but never through firewire, which is the only way to transfer DV files to a computer. From reading on the camcorder info website's forums, there's a number of other people who have had the same problem. Again, we're a minority, but to date, I've seen no sign that there's a fix to this problem. To make matters worse, the Sony support proved to be of little value, offering only simplistic troubleshooting advice (try a different port, turn off the PC, restart the camera). And, they only offer repair service, not replacement service, even though this product is only a few days old. Sony's solution was to have me send it in for repair and do without my new purchase for however long it takes them to fix it. For me, it just wasn't worth the effort, especially during the holidays. They had their chance to keep a customer, but decided not to. And, Sony is very invasive about gathering personal information. Before I could talk to someone or email someone, I had to provide my mailing address, email address and phone number. That is a lot of my personal data sitting in some Sony CRM database somewhere, and I'm not even a customer any more.

So, weigh these risks when deciding on Sony. While they can make some nice hardware, their support policies and reliability issues could leave you out in the cold.

That is why I'm returning mine for a different manufacturer, probably the Panasonic.

I thought I'd post an update, just in case it helps. First, I purchased a Panasonic camcorder, and it connected to my PC with no problems.
Also, I should point out that Amazon was great to deal with on this order. Not only did they ship the product quickly, but Amazon also did a great job handling the return. No one likes to get a defective product, but at least one company (Amazon) knows how to stand behind what they sell. If only Sony supported their customers to the same degree Amazon does.

Sony DCR-HC96.......2007-11-15

Is more than perfect for all the family, easy to use and great image. The still pics are really bad but the rest is great.

Pro Series Digital Photo & Video Tripod w/ 3 Way Panhead, Quick Release Mount, 3 Section Leg locks & Built-In Handle - Includes Nylon Carrying Bag with Shoulder Strap- Suited for Sony Handycam Camcorder DCR DVD108 DVD505 DVD308 DVD405 & TRV /HC Series MiniDV

Average customer rating:

Very cheap, bad company
great products at a great price

Pro Series Digital Photo & Video Tripod w/ 3 Way Panhead, Quick Release Mount, 3 Section Leg locks & Built-In Handle - Includes Nylon Carrying Bag with Shoulder Strap- Suited for Sony Handycam Camcorder DCR DVD108 DVD505 DVD308 DVD405 & TRV /HC Series MiniDV

Manufacturer: Pro Power
ProductGroup: Photography
Binding: Electronics

Product Features:

Tech Specs: 3 way fluid Pan Head with Bubble Level to ensure stability on un-even ground and Quick Release Plate - 3 Section Channel Leg locks for height control
Convenient Features: Built-in Tripod Carrying Handle , Bag Hook & Durable Nylon Carrying case with Shoulder Strap
Size: Extended Length 57" , Folded Length 22" , Light weight -2 lbs

ASIN: B000OMQXF0

Product Description

Pro Series Full Size Tripod combines all neccesary features for highest quality video /photo needs for either amateur or professional photographer. 3 Way panhead gives you flexibility to focus camera to any point you wish and quick release plate makes it easy to assemble your components in the quickest way. Two bubble level indicators- one for legs and one for tripod head will prevent any Level positioning troubles for maximum quality on any platform. Like no other tripods, the unit has many convenient features such as a hook to hang your carying bag and other belongings, built-in handle makes it easy to move to diferent shooting locations and a provided case will suit fyou great or storage, protection and transportation needs.

Customer Reviews:

Very cheap, bad company.......2007-11-11

I wasn't expecting much when I ordered this, but I was still disappointed when it arrived. First of all, STAY AWAY from Accessory Genie: they shipped this item in it's original box! Just slapped a sticker on it and dropped it in the mail. It arrived all banged up and held together with tape. The tripod was poking out of the box. I took the tripod out and it is very CHEAP. I mean, it's cheaply made in China. Mostly plastic. The 'fluid head' is plastic on plastic, so if you plan to do any panning with it, expect jerking motions as one plastic fitting slides over another. Even worse, the item appeared to have already been used! The little rubber feet were scuffed and there were scratches on the frame. Why don't I return it? Well, you see, Accessory Genie charges a 20% 'restocking' fee for 'non-defective' items. Technically, the item isn't 'defective' (even though it does appear to be used) but the company sure is. I found a much better tripod at a local department store. Take my advice and steer clear of these clowns. Buy local so you can return it if you're not happy -- without getting robbed.

great products at a great price.......2007-05-13

wonderful shopping experience. great products, good strong stuff. vendors were very eay to dal with. the whole deal was very pleasant.

Sony DCR-HC48 1MP MiniDV Handycam Camcorder + Deluxe Accessory Kit

Average customer rating:

Sony DCR-HC48 1MP MiniDV Handycam Camcorder + Deluxe Accessory Kit

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: CE

Product Features:

Sony DCR-HC48 1MP MiniDV Handycam Camcorder with 25x Optical Zoom Includes manufacturer's supplied accessories)
5 Pack of 60-90min Mini DV Video Cassettes - Sony Carrying Case with Front Pocket & Strap
AC/DC Battery Charger - Telephoto and Wide Lens Set - 3 pc Filter Kit: UV/ Polarizing filter/Fluorescent correction and Case
Full Size 46" Tripod W/Case - Package of LCD Screen Protectors
Deluxe Cleaning and Care Kit - Flexible Mini Tripod

ASIN: B000Y2DKUG

Product Description

With a 1 megapixel CCD, the DCR-HC48 MiniDV Handycam camcorder captures every detail of every frame. And you'll get everything in the frame with the 25x optical/2000x digital zoom through the Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar Lens. The 2.7" wide hybrid touch panel LCD displays your video in vivid detail while allowing you to easily control the camcorder's features. You even have better control over your video clarity with Super SteadyShot image stabilization and Super NightShot Plus. And with the built-in Memory Stick Duo media slot and the supplied Handycam Station, it's quick and simple to share everything you've recorded. +PLUS+ DELUXE ACCESSORY KIT: - 5 Pack of 60-90min Mini DV Video Cassettes - Sony Carrying Case with Front Pocket & Strap - Telephoto & Wide lens Set - 3 pc Filter Kit: UV/ Polarizing filter/Fluorescent correction & Case - Full Size 46" Tripod W/Case - Package of LCD Screen Protectors - Deluxe Cleaning and Care Kit - Flexible Mini Tripod.

Sony DCR-HC96 MiniDV 3.3MP Digital Handycam Camcorder + Deluxe Accessory Kit

Average customer rating:

Sony DCR-HC96 MiniDV 3.3MP Digital Handycam Camcorder + Deluxe Accessory Kit

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Photography
Binding: Electronics

Sony DCR-HC96 MiniDV 3.3MP Digital Handycam Camcorder with 10x Optical Zoom (Includes manufacturer's supplied accessories)
NP-FP70 Rechargeable Lithium-ion Battery (for spare back up power) - AC/DC Rapid Battery Charger
Telephoto & Wide lens Set - 3 pc Filter Kit: UV/ Polarizing filter/Fluorescent correction & Case - 512MB Memory Stick Pro Duo Card
5 60-90min Mini DV Video Cassettes - Sony Carrying Case with Front Pocket & Strap - Deluxe Cleaning and Care Kit
LCD Screen Protectors - Full Size 46" Tripod W/Case

ASIN: B000Y88HK8

Product Description

Box Contents: DCR-HC96, AC-L25 Power Adapter/In-Camera Charger, NP-FP50 InfoLithium(R) Rechargeable Battery, DCRA-C152 Handycam(R) Station, RMT-831 Remote Commander(R) remote control, Stereo A/V Cable, USB Cable, Lens Cap, CD-ROM with USB Driver The Sony DCR-HC96 MiniDV HandyCam Camcorder combines brilliant stills with spectacular video. Enjoy sharper photos and exceptional video, thanks to the 3.3 MegaPixel CCD imager. The wide-screen (16:9) 2.7" Touch Panel LCD lets you see more in greater detail, while teh 10x optical and 120x digital zoom gives you clear, up-close shots from far away. One Touch wide angle shooting lets you switch easily between 16:9 and 4:3 aspect ratios, and Super SteadyShot(R) keeps your photos shake-free. Progressive Shutter Mode Focal Distance - 5.1 - 51mm; 370mm Telemacro Aperture - f1.8 - 2.9 Shutter Speeds - Auto, 1/2-1/4000 sec. (AE Mode) Filter Diameter - 30mm Full Range Auto and Manual Focus Progressive Shutter Mode Analog/Digital conversion with pass-through USB and i.LINK(R) ports S-Video output (optional) Accepts Memory Stick(R) PRO up to 2GB; does not support high-speed transfer Recording Media - MiniDV Operating Systems - Windows Me, 2000 Pro, XP Home and Pro Battery - InfoLithium(R) with AccuPower(TM) Meter System Dimensions - 2-7/8 x 3-5/8 x 4-3/4 (72 x 91 x 120 mm). +PLUS+ ACCESSORY KIT: NP-FP70 Rechargeable Lithium-ion Battery (for spare back up power) - Battery Charger - Telephoto & Wide lens Set - 3 pc Filter Kit: UV/ Polarizing filter/Fluorescent correction & Case - 512MB Memory Stick Pro Duo Card - 5 Mini DV Video Cassettes - Sony Carrying Case - Deluxe Lens Cleaing Kit - LCD Screen Protectors - Full Size 46" Tripod W/Case

Sony DCR-HC96 MiniDV 3.3MP Digital Handycam Camcorder + Accessory Kit

Average customer rating:

Accessory Kit is a waste of money- DON'T BUY

Sony DCR-HC96 MiniDV 3.3MP Digital Handycam Camcorder + Accessory Kit

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Photography
Binding: Electronics

Product Features:

Sony DCR-HC96 MiniDV 3.3MP Digital Handycam Camcorder with 10x Optical Zoom (Includes manufacturer's supplied accessories)
NP-FP70 Rechargeable Lithium-ion Battery
Three (3) 60-90min Mini DV Video Cassettes
Carrying Case with Front Pocket and Strap - Package of LCD Screen Protectors
Deluxe Cleaning and Care Kit - Flexible Mini Tripod

ASIN: B000JSS3NE

Product Description

The DCR-HC96 from Sony gives you a full-featured, compact MiniDV camcorder at an affordable price. Highlights include the Advanced HAD CCD imager, which captures stunning detail and clarity, and 10x optical zoom with Super SteadyShot picture stabilization, which focuses on distant subjects, providing clear close-up images with less distortion. The Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar lens offers less glare and increased contrast for vivid, more life-like color and tones. A 3.3-megapixel sensor allows you to take still images that can be printed at photo quality up to 10 x 14 inches. Make your personal videos complete with additional customization features such as Picture and Fader effects for creative and professional looking enhancements. Picture Package software helps you easily organize and edit still images and video. +PLUS+ ACCESSORY KIT: - Additional Lithium-Ion Battery - 3 MiniDV Cassettes - Camcorder Carrying Case - LCD Screen Protectors - Cleaning Kit - Mini Tripod

Customer Reviews:

Accessory Kit is a waste of money- DON'T BUY.......2007-04-15

We thought the kit would be a great addition to the camera but it's cheap. All the items don't fit in the bag - too small to hold anything but the camera itself. More importantly, the rechargable battery does not work with the Sony camera we bought. It was part of the combined Amazon offer (Sony DCR-HC96 MiniDV 3.3MP Digital Handycam Camcorder + Accessory kit). When the time came for us to use it well it didn't work and of course it was past the 30 day return policy. Very disappointing.

DCR-HC96 MiniDV Digital Handycam Camcorder

Average customer rating:

where i can get this product or when???
Sony DV DCR 98
Sony Mini DVD Video Camera

DCR-HC96 MiniDV Digital Handycam Camcorder

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: CE
Binding: Electronics

ASIN: B000JTA8JA

Product Description

This small compact device houses incredibly powerful performance features. A whopping 3.0 Megapixel Imager combined with a Primar

Customer Reviews:

where i can get this product or when???.......2007-10-07

i want to buy it!!! but it says that is unavaible where i can get it??? or when is avaible??? plese give me a notice!!!

Sony DV DCR 98.......2007-05-13

It is ok. But not a s good as the Pc-100 from sony

Sony Mini DVD Video Camera.......2007-03-09

We received the product in a timely fashion. We aree very happy with the product.

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