The DCR-TRV33 is a spectacular option for those looking for great video and stills in a compact camcorder. Offering a 1.0 Megapixel CCD imager, this high quality camcorder delivers 10X Optical/120X Digital Zoom and Carl Zeiss optics for incredible picture clarity. Featuring1.0 Megapixel (Gross) Advanced HAD CCD Imager MiniDV Recording Ultra Compact Design Professional Quality Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar Lens 10X Optical/120X Precision Digital Zoom MPEG Movie EX Mode: Unlike earlier MPEG1 Movies, MPEG Movie EX will allow you to record uninterrupted to the full capacity of the Memory Stick media. For example a 128MB Memory Stick will record up to 85 minutes of non-stop MPEG1 video. USB Streaming: Stay connected with family and friends by broadcasting live video with audio, via the Internet with the USB interface.
You can even playback your favorite recorded scene stored on tape. It's like having your own web camera or video conferencing system. i.LINK(1) DV Interface (IEEE1394): A high-speed bi-directional digital video/audio communication between two compatible devices equipped with an IEEE1394 interface, including camcorders, digital VTRs, capture cards, and PCs. Progressive Shutter System: A mechanical shutter system that provides Progressive Scan performance while utilizing an interlaced scanning system, digital still images will be sharp and clear with excellent definition. InfoLithium Battery
When the action rolls, you need the power to capture it. Smarter batteries help you prepare. Sony InfoLithium Batteries communicate with your Handycam camcorder's AccuPower meter, telling you how much shooting time remains. And because they resist "memory effect," Sony InfoLithium Batteries do not prematurely reduce recording time. It's a smart way to be ready for action.
Megapixel Performance
Of all the world's consumer camcorders, Sony was the first to break the megapixel barrier. Working with high-resolution recording and high-precision Carl Zeiss or Sony custom optics, the benefits are dramatic. You'll see amazing detail on everything you shoot. Every blade of grass. Every strand of hair. The names on the back of player uniforms. And megapixel resolution is also a great benefit in Sony's Digital still camera function (Memory Mode).
Digital Still Memory Mode
Capture digital still images directly onto Memory Stick® media for easy transfer to e-mail, printing, or sharing with compatible Memory Stick devices. Digital still images can be captured while in Memory Mode, or images from the videotape can be captured onto Memory Stick media. This feature provides the Dual Function of having one camera for video and still images, and provides the user with a whole new world of imaging possibilities.
MPEG Movie Mode
Originally found on step-up Sony Digital Still Cameras, Sony presents another camcorder first -- MPEG Movie Mode for select Handycam Camcorders. Capture MPEG digital video and store it directly to your Memory Stick Media. Movie length ranges from 5 seconds to the length allowed by the capacity of your memory stick with MPEG Movie EX. Take the "Best Of" scene recorded on video tape, for example -- the groom kissing the bride on the wedding day, convert it to an MPEG Movie and share it with family and friends via the internet.
Super Nightshot 0 Lux System
Low light? No problem. Absolutely no light? No sweat! Now you can capture video even in total darkness (0 lux). Sony's NightShot system uses infrared light to capture images invisible to the human eye. You can shoot subjects like sleeping babies up to 10 feet away in total darkness.
SteadyShot Picture Stabilization
There's a world of difference between experiences that are moving and the ones that are simply shaky. To encourage the first and prevent the second, Sony invented SteadyShot picture stabilization. It smoothes and steadies your images without degrading picture quality. Sony does it with motion sensors --- a more accurate system than many other camcorders on the market.
The MiniDV Format
MiniDV, the most common type of digital camcorder, records video using the standard DV-format. It's the preferred format for broadcast-quality video, and it is also highly regarded for its high audio and still image quality. This is all delivered on a cassette that's 1/12th the size of a standard VHS tape. Tapes come in lengths of 60 and 80 minutes at standard speed (SP), with use of lower speed mode (SP) increasing time to 90 and 120 minutes while reducing resolution.
1 Pleased but disappointing
I had mine for 2 years and it did most of the things I needed very well (low light filming is acceptable but not good). I could also use it to capture VHS tapes and get them into DVD format through my PC.
Anyway, now after 2 years and probably 15 MiniDV tapes of filming (~20 hours of usage!) and the thing stopped working from one day to the next. Doesn't focus, has yellow tint, etc. I would expect more from a Sony and this was one of the better camcorders out there when I bought for $800+ bucks. Can't recommend it.
2 Sony needs to stand behind their products
I purchased the TRV33 camcorder for its features and ease of use - regardless of the price (which is more than others).
Now, after 14 months of use, I too have lost the ability to record and Sony wants $290.26 as a minimum to tell me what is wrong with my camara.
It sounds like from other reviews that by now, they should know what is wrong and should be recalling the camara and standing behind them.
I will not be purchasing another Sony product with their poor customer service. It is just inexcusable that they have had this reoccuring problem and are not taking care of their customers.
3 Camera stopped working after a year of use
It's a nice camcorder. Took plenty of pictures of my young daughter. However after 13 months of usage, the camcorder stopped recording; all I see is a fuzzy image on the screen. I can playback my recorded cassettes, but otherwise it has become useless.
Called up Sony, and Cust service is asking for $270 + shipping + tax to fix it. Ironically, they mention that nobody has faced a similar problem, but a quick search on Google will yield plenty of consumers complaining the same problem.
It has good price (expensive than similar camcorders by other manufacturers), but I would strongly recommend buying an extended warranty plan. I am looking out for another camcorder, if there's any good camcorder, please suggest it to me.
Thanks
Jignesh
4 Chose Sony and paid a premium price just for a year of use.
I am facing the same problem as Raviraj.It has been little over a year and my camcorder is corrupted. When I try to record, there is nothing but few scrambled lines.Tried head cleaning. Did not work. I could have bought a more affordable camcorder( other friends using Panasonic are quiet satisfied) if I was to replace it after merely using it for a year. I chose Sony thinking it might last long because of good name brand.
5 Houston, we have a problem!!!!
I bought this camcorder from JR.com last year for 600 bucks. I was very impressed by the performance of this piece. I have a hobby for video shooting and have my own 'mini studio' setup at home to edit the video (which means, i haven't given the camcorder to anyone till now!). I have captured dozens of events with this camcorder and have recommended this camcorder to many people also. That's all good things about it..
Now coming to the troubled part of it. Recently, I opened the camcorder to capture some event and found that it won't record!! There was no reason for it to 'die'. I had used it just 15 days before it collapsed. All I can do now is, I can play the recorded cassettes in the camcorder. But when I try to record, there is nothing but few scrambled lines! Since it is just over an year since i have bought this piece, I doubt Sony will support this under warranty (I didn't buy an additional warranty on this). Can someone tell me if there is any way to get it repaired?
I would have given 5 stars for this camcoder, but after I faced the problem I'm forced to deduct 2 stars :(
6 Forget about still image quality
Bought this camera thinking I would be replacing my digital still with a double-duty camera. 1 megapixel photos are sufficient for my purposes (1000-1500 photos per event ftp'd to a server), as long as lens and processor are quality. Don't think you're getting that here. I take close-up shots for auctions and the lack of a macro mode for these shots makes the images very grainy and dark. I can't comment on the video capabilities, but I'm taking this camera back to Circuit City and going back to a digital still :-( In my opinion, if the still image capability is going to be a feature on a digital video camera, the quality should at least be comparable to a digital still camera of the same megapixel rating.
7 Is the TRV33 worth the extra $$$?
If you are reading this review and are shopping for a MiniDV camcorder you are in the learning mode for shopping. Isn't Amazon.com a great place to learn about electronics such as this. I will be happy to share my experience with this camcorder so far. This review is all about money and how I decided finally that with consumer level electronics you do usually get what you pay for. The camcorder that we origionally purchases when we were ready to buy a MiniDv camcorder was by Sharp. It was about half the cost of the Canon and Sony models that were being sold by its side. I took notice that there were often large rebates for Sharp camcorders that hammered the price down to a very low price that was just too good to pass up. Due to numerous unfortunate issues with this camera our memories that were recorded were trashed due to what I can say was just poor build quality. So the rule is don't buy a KIA and expect it to provide you with the memorable experience of a Honda/Toyota etc. Right???
Here is the good stuff. This camera is worth every dime that Sony is asking for it. After reading some reviews the only negative thing that you may read is that you can hear the motor working when recording or playing back a tape. I say that but you really would have to be listening for this to hear it. My DVD player makes more noise than this unit. So some folks really need to get a grip. More sound insulation in the area that houses the motor for the camcorder would cure this but there is really no room for anything else to be stuffed in there. This in NO WAY means that this noise is at all recorded on your tape. Anything that Sony makes in Japan seems to keep with the origional high standards that this company is known for. This camera is made in Japan and everything from the quality of construction to the quality of the images that you will see on the TV screen will just amaze you. The colors are just perfect and the sound is more than what I expected from a compact recorder. Enjoy the TRV33 if it is the final choice that you make in this search for a good camcorder. If it is a bit high for your budget then check out the TRV19 and the TRV22. The TRV19 may be the best buy that I have seen in the MiniDV world yet.
All in all this camera is compact, efficient and it is ergonimically perfect when it is held in your hand. After you purchase the Camcorder register it with Sony online. After you have done so they will most likely send you a 20% off coupon in your email to buy upgrades for the new product that you have purchased. WIth this cupon go ahead and upgrade the battery for the camcorder to at least the FM50. The FM30 that is included is just not sufficient to be the main battery. It will be a nice backup for you in a pinch but should not be relied on. The FM50 should have been standard issue IMO. Happy shopping!
8 Great camera, Just some things you should know
I really havent seen this low light problem everyone speaks about. One thing That I TRIED to find an answer to(even read the maual on line and coudlent figgure it out) Is if you really want to download your videos to your pc you HAVE TO HAVE FIREWIRE!
You can download small mpeg files with the usb. But if you really want to do the full editing you have to have firewire on your pc. It's not that big a thing. About 50 bucks for a pci card for your machine. Just wish I could have found out that information a little easier.
The camera itself is Outstanding. The still shots are pretty bad. But the effects on this camera are amazeing. And when I hook it up to my WEGA TV svideo it looks like i'm watching a dvd. The size is great. And I think the touch screen works wonderfully, but be sure not to be eating anyting messy while your useing it.
I'm an amature with Digital video but this thing works so well I look like an expert. Down side is the software it comes with is extreamly lacking. So make the plunge and buy something like adobe video editor for your movie makeing needs.
All in all a great camera.
9 nice and decent camcorder
This camcorder has plenty of features like mpeg (my most desired feature) also I was glad with a feature that enables you to convert mini DV to mpeg either on computer or if you don't have computer at the moment you can just transfer to memory stick.
Quality of video is good .. just make sure you have enough light.
Just to keep it short.. This camcorder is full of features it's a nice one, but has a humming noise. That's not at all bothersome if you are shooting outdoor ... I promise you won't even notice it but when shooting indoor in a quite place ... you will notice ... it's not a big issue like few have described. Honestly ... I know few peoples at work they have this camcorder for over 1 year and they didn't notice until I asked them to check if it's my camcorder or just all.
Night shot is great only you have to remember to turn on night shot mode. Honestly it's better than other ones.
Once thing is sure.... no matter how much you spend on a camcorder... it won't let you make a movie. But for home personal video it's a decent camcorder ... price around 599 is a good price.
10 What noise?
I've owned the camera for awhile now, and the audio is crystal clear. The still images are great for 5X7 and 8X10 sized reprints. The video is also above average. The backlight and Nightshot options are great and come in handy. I believe the professional review was right on concerning this camera, and really beleive it was a great purchase at a little over $600.
I've owned and used a Canon E-08 for years and the video was great, 8mm was an obvious step up over VHS-C and the Mini-DV format is a huge step forward over 8mm.
Someone else was complaining about the tapes being an hour long, but an hour of video on a day trip will ussually be fine, and if you're worried about it carry a couple with you, I bought a 4 pack of JVC 60 minute tapes for $19.95 on sale.
Come on transferring video to VHS is simple, and doesn't require a computer, and simple editing is a snap. But if you have a computer with a DVD writer the resulting DVD's are great.
Maybe I'm lucky, no problems at all and I love the all in one feature of this camera.
11 Manual Gobblygook
The confusing manual and "recorded" Customer Services responses fail this camera.
The camera is (perhaps) capable of a lot of Great Functions however, the manual is confusing and therefore I recommend that you stay away from this camcorder if it is your first purchase. The manual must be written by the same people who write the instructional pamplets for the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). It will be my Last Sony product purchased due to the confusing manual. Customer Service only delivers pre-printed responses that refer you back to the Sony webpage.
Even simple things like the Lens Cap does not attach to the camcorder when any of the accessory lens/filters are used. Therefore you're not able to protect the lens while using any of the various accessory lens Sony plies off to various venders.
12 Wow! What a great camcorder!
I recommend this camcorder. The picture quality is excellent. The still pictures are easy to take and easy to download to a computer. I wish it came with a better battery, a carying case, a larger capacity memory stick, and a seperate battery charger-so be prepared to spend a little more money to upgrade these. There are too many features on this camcorder to brag about- the user manual is quite large.
13 Sony DCRTRV33 MiniDV
I dont want too seem to foward in this. I need to work on it really badly! Good camera. I dont want to like jump the gun if you will. Some people jump the gun and thats what they do and i dont have a problem with that at all. You should do what you want to do, whenever, whereever, however YOU want to. Like if you're driving, dont let people around you control how YOU drive. Stick to your own pace. Some people say i go to the beat of a different drummer, im just going to my own beat, Not a different drummer.
14 My First Video Camera
This camera is great! With it being my first video camera, it was very easy to figure out. The touch screen made the menu features extremely easy to navigate. Connecting to my computer is very easy considering all I had to do was connect it and everything else was automatic. My camera doesn't have a motor noise, but there is a problem with the wind when filming outdoors. Overall I am very pleased with this product.
15 Great Camera, Great Features
I read all of the reviews here and went through exhaustive research before I purchased the TRV33.
First, the infamous buzzing noise. This had me very nervous since it appeared to be the one constant complaint in these reviews. Yes - when you operate the camera there is camera noise. There also has been camera operating noise on every other camcorder I have owned over 15 years. It is no different from any other camcorder. As far as recording noise goes, if your footage is in a dead silent environment, then yes, the noise is slightly audible. Not annoying, not a "loud buzzing", just slight mechanical noise. If there is any amount of background noise in your footage, the "buzzing" is not noticeable at all. As a matter of fact, I edit footage in Final Cut Express on a Mac, and the noise in so slight that it doesn't even register on the audio meter.
Having said that, I will let you know that the features are fantastic, the camera is easy to use (I shot footage and transferred to my Mac through Firewire without even reading the directions) and the video footage is great. The LCD Touch Screen is fantastic as well.
The only negative thing I noticed so far is that when the footage was captured to the Mac it seemed to lose some of its clarity. When I hooked it up to my TV via composite video and played directly from the camera it rivaled DVD quality. But when I captured it to the Mac it seemed to be more jaggy and the colors we darker. I haven't burned a DVD yet to see how the final product looks, and there may be some settings I can change as well - but other than that this is one fantastic camera!
16 worst than VHS_C
I WANTED TO UPGRADE FROM MY PANASONIC VHS-C CAMCORDER TO SOMETHING DIGITAL SO AFTER READING ENDLESS REVIEWS I CHOSE THIS SONY TRV33, BIG MISTAKE. I BELEIVE SONY INTENTIONALLY MADE THESE MINI DV CAMCORDERS WITH AN INTENT ON FORCING PEOPLE TO BUY THE ENDLESS (EXPENSIVE) ACCESSORIES. AFTER OWNING MY VHS-C FOR YEARS I TOOK ALOT FOR GRANTED LIKE A BUILT-IN LIGHT, TRUE REAL LIFE COLOR, A LENSE THAT SHOWS THE SIZE OF A .7 WIDE ANGLE WITHOUT DISTORTION, SP LP EP(6HRS), WORKS WELL WITH REGULAR INDOOR LIGHTING, ALL AND MORE OF THE AFFORMENTIONED REQUIRE ACCESSORIES ON THIS MINI DV CAMCORDER. I ADJUSTED, WORKED ALL CONTROLS, READ THE MANUAL AN STILL DIDN'T GET WHAT I'VE BEEN USE TO WITH MY VHS-C.
17 Great for Newbie Filmmakers
This camera is extremely easy to use. The touch screen menu feature is great for gadget freaks and newbies alike. The autofocus is very fast and the LCD screen is crystal clear.
I managed to get 10 photos on the 8mb memory stick that comes with the camera which is fine if you plan to use this camera primarily as a video camera.
It's small design means it can be tucked out of the way on outings and whipped out at a moments notice.
My battery lasts around 74 minutes and the Infolitium system ,which tells you exactly how much power is left in minutes rather than the usual 3 bars, is really helpful.
It can be a little noisy when rewinding a tape or changing modes but you dont hear anything while taping or reviewing.
It's small, sleek and really fun to use. I got this as a gift but if I were buying one for myself, this would be the one I would choose.
18 This will be my last Sony Product!
First complaint is that when I chose to use the cinema mode (16:9) neither a regular TV or my new Panasonic 36" Flat Panel HDTV would play back in the letter-boxed format that appeared on the LCD screen when I shot the movies. People's heads are longer than normal. When trying to change my HDTV to 16:9 with the tape playing, it would not change from 4:3 aspect. Sony customer reps are very abrupt and rude. The woman I spoke to said I should've bought a Sony HDTV because the camera is not compatible with other brands. On my old Canon 8mm Camcorder I could take movies in the professional cinema mode and they played correctly on any TV. Even if the 16:9 worked on my TV or I owned a "compatible Sony HDTV", why would I ever choose to film in that format when I share my movies with people who have all types of TV's? So now I get to shoot all my movies in the good old amateur format!
Second complaint is that when I purchased a UV haze filter to protect my lens (something I've done with every camera I've ever bought), the lens cap wouldn't fit over the filter! When I called Sony Customer Service another rude woman told me that nobody makes a lens cap to fit over the UV haze filter and that I would have to remove the filter every time I wanted to put the lens cap on. Who in the world is going to go through all that trouble?
Third complaint about Sony is that the on/off button on my Sony Clie PDA broke a few months after I purchased the PDA. I had read on the internet about people having trouble with the button breaking so I RARELY used it. I instead turned it on with the little buttons at the bottom of the screen instead, and let it turn off automatically, and yet it still broke. Clearly a manufacturing defect that Sony would not stand behind. Their warranty was for only 90 days.
Fourth complaint about Sony is my Vaio Laptop's battery lasts about 45 minutes, and is so slow compared to my Dell Desktop which has close to the same size processor.
19 Good product in a small package
I bought this product in July and have been very pleased with it. Admittedly I have just used the basic features but I have had no problems with that.
Resolution and color rendition is excellent I love the crystal clear digital stop motion. The grand kids love it when I take away their dog's tail by pressing pause.
Even the still photo capability is quite adequate for making prints up to 3 1/2 x 5 or even 4 by 6 inches. This was a pleasant surprise.
The LCD viewfinder is a little hard to read in bright light but very good in dimmer lighting conditions. I take most of my shots through the viewfinder anyway.
Operation is quiet and I'm not sure what other reviewers have complained about.
I've usually been impressed with Sony products and this camcorder is no exception.
20 Nice camera... when it works
So far, I've had to ship this camera back three times for repairs. Twice for the same problem, and the third time for a problem it had out of the box after the second repair. At least it has been covered by the warranty and Sony has paid for almost all of the shipping. Otherwise, it's got some nice features... and I hope to use them if the camera doesn't break again. I think Sony needs to worry less about having the neatest features and more about making sure its cameras are absolutely reliable. My Grand Wega TV also broke within a week of purchase, I won't be buying Sony again anytime soon.
21 awesome.
i bought this at best buy, and i think its awesome. it looks big because the photo has been maximized, but its pretty small and isn't "heavy". i used it to film my trip to eruope, and it worked heavenly. it also has "night shot" which is simmilar to "night vision".
Pros:
*NIGHT VISION!!!
*touch screen
*compact
*120x digital zoom
*good quaility
*all cables included (camera to computer, camera to tv, etc)
Cons:
*approx. 30-60 minutes of battery life (depending how you use it)
*needs at least [$$$]of accesories...
the accesories are:
*carrying case (if u don't want a scratch on this)
*extra 5 hour battery
*128mb memory card (with 8 mb (included), u'll only be able to take approx. 4 pic.)
*memory card reader (for computer)
22 The best buy for the buck! Loaded w/features...
I purchased this camcorder direct from Sony a few months ago. Since then I've recorded about 10 60-minute tapes and I'm loving it! The video is crystal clear and excellent quality. If you're worried about the low light/night recording quality don't be. It shines where others fail. I recorded this year's Red White and Boom (Columbus, OH fireworks display) in its entirety and it came out perfect. My friend's Samsung couldn't keep focus at all because of the low light, but mine never once lost its focus. I've been converting my video to different formats, but am mostly backing them up to DiVX. Speaking of which, the fireworks show is available on Shareaza--look up Red White Boom and you should find the AVI file. I have no regrets. This camera was everything I was looking for. As for the stereo mics and wind--yes wind will cause noise when it hits the mics, but I was on top of Mt. Washington, NH (6000+ feet) and I could still hear voices over the constant blowing wind, so it's not that bad. You can add an external mic anyway. This is a solid product. You just can't go wrong.
23 The best buy for the buck! Loaded w/features...
I purchased this camcorder direct from Sony a few months ago. Since then I've recorded about 10 60-minute tapes and I'm loving it! The video is crystal clear and excellent quality. If you're worried about the low light/night recording quality don't be. It shines where others fail. I recorded this year's Red White and Boom (Columbus, OH fireworks display) in its entirety and it came out perfect. My friend's Samsung couldn't keep focus at all because of the low light, but mine never once lost its focus. I've been converting my video to different formats, but am mostly backing them up to DiVX. Speaking of which, the fireworks show is available on Shareaza--look up Red White Boom and you should find the AVI file. I have no regrets. This camera was everything I was looking for. As for the stereo mics and wind--yes wind will cause noise when it hits the mics, but I was on top of Mt. Washington, NH (6000+ feet) and I could still hear voices over the constant blowing wind, so it's not that bad. You can add an external mic anyway. This is a solid product. You just can't go wrong.
24 What buzzing noise? Just jealous competitors....
Forget the reviews from second-rate companys claiming,
"...loud annoying buzzing noise..."
This is the only thing the people at Panasonic, Toshiba, Canon...etc... can come up with.
Overall this camera, in its class, is second to none.
Recommended beyond all REASONABLE doubt.
25 Motor noise
It is a good Camera, have a lot of cool stuff. Touch screen is easy to operate. Still images shoot in memery card are very poor. Don't bother to use it. Fixture very much the same as DCR TRV22, why pay more for DCR TRV33? Both use the same menue book.
26 compact camcorder with megapixel still camera
nice feature set on this camcorder.
pros:
- compact design, light weight.
- 1 megapixel still capability
- miniDV media is widely supported.
- great connectivity options: firewire, USB, S-video, headphone, mic input, etc.
- carl zeiss lens.
- steady shot and night shot.
- ability to record mpeg videos directly to memory stick.
- progressive shutter system.
- supports exif 2.2.
cons:
- it would have been nice to get a bigger 3.5" LCD.
- no pop-up flash for taking stills and no built in video light but you can get a flash/video combo light for less than a hundred bucks.
- you could do better on the still photo department. for example, sony's trv80 and trv70 have 2 megapixel capability but those camcorders are bigger and heavier.
- as with most sony products, you pay a premium, pushing up the price.
- the included 8MB memory stick is unacceptable. be prepared to shell out more money for a 32MB or bigger memory stick.
a nice package, but i would recommend the pc105 (lighter, smaller, and has a pop-up flash) for a few buck more.
27 Exellent choice!!!
I am glad I made that choice, exellent quality! easy to use basic functions. Easy PS connectivity with 1394 or USB.
Highly reccomended.
28 Yet another excellent Sony digicam
I've owned a number of Sony digicams (most recently the PC110) and decided to upgrade for some new features like analog pass-through (hook a VCR up to the camcorder to capture directly to your computer). I first tried the TRV70, but returned it and got this one instead. The 70 is a very different camera...considerably larger and with much better stills, but more expensive. I decided to go with the 33 because I wanted something smaller. The digital stills from most camcorders aren't going to be anywhere as good as from a halfway decent digital camera, so not a reason to pay a lot more. I got the same size LCD touch screen (a nice new feature!) and one thing I like about this model over the 70 is that the zoom is not so fast! The 70 has the same kind of zoom control, but it's very touchy and it's very hard to do a gradual zoom. The 33 allows much better control. Well, unless you have a need to do really fast zooms. I prefer to have one that does not. I find this is particularly important if you want other people to use the camera...anytime I gave someone the 110 to use, they had problems with that touchy zoom! This is an issue on a lot of Sony camcorders, I really wish they would correct it across the board.
Image quality is good and I personally don't have problems with motor noise, it's pretty typical for camcorders this size. The 10x zoom is decent, I looked at the Canons that were 20X zooms, but their image quality was not as good. The touch screen is great for features like spot focus and metering. I find it a lot easier to use than the myriad of buttons all over the camera that most models use.
Another new feature is the ability to quickly check the battery life on the camera without powering it up. I've sometimes thought it was charged when it was not and missed being able to film as a result, so this will be a lifesaver! The Sonys are great about telling you how much time is left on the battery and the tape.
Overall, an excellent camera I would highly recommend.
29 MiniDV tapes are only an hour long
This camera's great, see also the 35 model. It's the one my university is buying. But be careful about all the extra costs and requirements, such as the miniDV tapes and hard drive space and video editing software and computer.
"A MiniDV tape offers a digital recording time of 2 full hours--20 times the capacity of a CD."
The tapes are only an hour long each, and can add up in cost quickly, but that's still about 20 times what a CD holds. One hour of raw uncompressed video takes up about 13 gigs of space on a hard drive. DVDs hold about 4.7 gigs, CDs about 700 MB.
So if you have a lot of video footage (like many hours) that you need to store and use, then your options are A) buy a lot of miniDV tapes. B) buy a DVD burner and many blank DVDs. C) buy one or more very large hard drives.
In all likelihood you'll have to do all three, because you need the hard drive to edit the video (plus software), and the DVD burner if you want to share or play the edited video in a DVD player.
You may be surprised when you add up the costs. For me, I'm using video for research, and it is cheaper and more convenient to just get a large external hard drive rather than dozens of tapes.
30 Humming noise and it is not worht to buy
The TRV33 model, I purchased was giving objectional humming noise in record mode with the cassette. The noise comes on to the casstte and when you play the recorded cassette on TV, you feel that you are listening to the water falls.I have tested three pieces of TRV33, all of them have the same problem. It is strange to belive that the SONY released such a defective products into the market but it is true. I returned all of three pieces and got the reimbursement. I suggest you to check before buying this product. I wonder why SONY is not fixing the problem, I am ardent fan of SONY products.
31 Guess you can't believe what you read...
I was afraid to buy a Sony DCR-TRV 33 camcorder based on some of the reviews that I got from this site.
But I bought it anyhow, based on my past history with Sony products.
They have always been "rock solid" and they have the highest "golly, gee whiz" technology.
So I buy this camcorder expecting to hear this great whirring or buzzing sound coming from the drive motors, like I have read in your reviews.
Sounds that are strong enough to motivate me to return it to the store (like some other critics say they have done).
Now - I have had my hearing checked recently, and it's at 100% of human capacity.
Do these reviewers have names that end in "Rover"?
In all normal functions - it worked fine. I could play/record and playback all without this excessive noise that these other people are whining about.
So - all I can assume is that some of the other "reviewers" are working for Toshiba, Canon, Panasonic or some other second rate company.
And to the reviewer that complained that the "zoom" function on the camcorder was too fast...
READ THE INSTRUCTIONS...
The faster your finger moves - the faster the camcorder zooms in.
If you start by moving your finger quickly - the camcorder will respond by zooming fast
If you start a little slower...
It's not rocket science.
32 Strange Motor sound on camera and vcr mode
This sure is a great camcorder with a sleek body and Awesome touch screen. The video quality is excellent. The size, look, weight, capability of taking good quality still pictures, and ease of navigation makes this camera a great buy. However, there is a strange motor noise in the CAMERA and VCR mode after you insert a mini DV video tape is really annoying. Despite of its great feature, I am planning to return it and wait till Sony fix this prob, because I think its way better than Panasonic in the similar price range
If you don't care about the noise, then go for it.
33 Terrific, easy to use, but needs windscreen!
After months of research we chose the TRV27 but it had been replaced by the TRV33. We bought the TRV33 sight unseen Sears great price and return policy made the decision easier. This thing is great. It is as small as my Canon G2 and a third the size of my old Sony Hi-8. It's very easy to use, and very intuitive. While my brother can just point and shoot, it still allows me to do spot focusing and spot metering which if you've never used these features on a camera, you will now--it's that easy. Low light features are great--while the infrared feature is a little creepy, the slow-shutter feature lets you take cool MTV-style videos in low light with great color quality.
GOOD: features, compact size, outdoor image quality, ease of use. Little flip-cover is cool too.
BAD: lack of windscreen, LCD is very difficult to see in bright light, and the software isn't great. I didn't bother with the still photo feature, same reason why I don't make movies with my G2. Overall, this is a terrific camera and a good value, esp, if the price drops below $650 or so. Only caveat: the wind noise is really awful when filming outdoors. I have to go find a microphone to attach now.
34 2nd Mini DV
Quality is better than my previous JVC-DVP3 but is a little larger. Only complain is that the zoom control works too fast on the Sony. ...
35 Great for home videos
I am very happy with DCR-TRV33. This is the best present I have ever got for myself. ;) My daughter is growing up so fast I can't trust my memory anymore to remember her well at every little stage of her development. I am sharing still pictures with family all over the world and watching good quality home videos (I haven't tried MPEG yet)! Just a little note: the still picture won't be as crisp as if you take it with the actual digital camera but as I say, it is better than nothing. On top of everything you can pick and choose the picture while you are watching the recorded film. I mean how many times (I had an old Sony before) you watch a recorded tape and think... gosh I wish I can take a snap shot of this. Now I can! And that gives me a perfect setup all the time (no cut heads or somebody's body parts on the background)!
36 Amazing camcorder
First of all I would like to comment on the "buzzing sound". I, too, noticed a slight, low-humming noise when I first filmed with my DCRTRV-33. And naturally I was concerned that this sound would transfer to the recording--Not so, not so at all. The "buzzing noise" is simply just the camera operating. When I played back film onto my Sony Wega trinitron, the first time, I placed my ear next to my speakers straining to see if I could hear the "buzzing noise". And alas the answer is--No. I could not hear anyting of the sort; nor any type of audio disturbance whatsoever.
Now as for the camera, I could not beleive the visual clarity and crispness when I played footage back on my Sony Wega. I can honestly say the clarity is better than most cable channels! And only a few notches below DVD movie quality. Additionally, this camera is ultra light, easy to hold, very user-freindly, comes with a bunch of great accessories, and wow! is the zoom on this camera awesome. I am able to zoom in on objects almost a quarter of a mile away and film them as if they were only a few feet away.
The camera functions are controlled by an ultra-cool easy-to-use touch lcd screen, I've yet to use the still picture function, and overall as far as user-freindliness, get this: My 76 year old father-in-law took the camera from us, plugged the rca jacks into the camera, then plugged them into his vcr and recorded all our digital tapes onto vhs! And the clarity, again, even on vhs,is absolutley remarkable--And, again, no "buzzing sound" could be detected anywhere on the vhs tapes.
Yes this is an expensive camera, but it is an investment. All our memories will forever be indellibly captured on top-of-the-line digital quality film. And if you own other Sony products as I do--VAIO desktop, and Wega television--the way these products interface with each other makes using them a delight. It's as if they are all simply smaller parts of a larger video audio interfacing operating system whole. In short: Sony Rocks!
Yeah Sony cost a little more, but--for the most part--you still get what you pay for.
37 Just a remark...
I gave it 5 stars in my previous review; now i'm changing it to 4 because in the past week i received a brand new Sony NP-QM90 Info-Lithium M Series Battery and noticed that longer lasting batteries than the one the camera comes with are too big/bulky and heavy... it makes the camera frame kind of flimsy when moving it horizontally; this is probably because the hand strap is fixed to the frame by two metal parts located in the sides of the cassette compartment... very inconvenient... i'm affraid it'll break appart one of these days... i'll have to go back to the older short-lasting battery when walking around... longer lasting batteries cand be used with a tripod or something i guess... All in all... its a great camera...
38 An excellent camcorder in a power packed package
I would like to give my opinion and view on Sony TRV33 model. I know how important a review of a product
is. After a month of research on camcorders, I had two options Canon ZR70MC or a Sony TRV33. Both of these
models had their own good and bad points. But ultimately I bought the TRV33 because of the following
reasons which I think clearly surpassed Canon.
Pros:
1. Clear, crisp and detailed video.
2. Best Image quality when compared to Canon.
3. Excellent low-light performance when compared to Canon.
4. Mind blowing Nightshot in total darkness, though in Greenish tint.
5. Carl Zeiss Lens definitely has proved its name and quality.
6. Image quality when downloaded on PC using a USB 2.0 was "excellent" both indoors and outdoors.
7. The 1.0 MB still pictures are OK but not fair, best for sending an email.
Cons:
1. 10x Optical, but I did not get a chance to use beyond 10x. Technically anything beyond 15x Optical
would produce shaky video unless on a tripod.
... If price is a constraint, I would request my readers to also check the TRV22, but
purchase with a long term perspective and image quality and optics matter a lot when deciding on a
camcorder. Sony truly shines in that aspect.
Good camcorder hunting !
39 This camera is awesome!
One of the major considerations for me in buying a camcorder was the size. My family has owned several camcorders and they've been bulky enough that after a few months when the "new electronics" glow has worn off, nobody wants to lug it around on vacations, to amusement parks, camping, etc. It's just too much of a hassle.
I've purchased a DCRTRV33 and LOVE this thing! The PC interface through firewire (IEEE 1394) is flawless--I just plugged it in and it worked beautifully with Pinnacle Studio 8. It's packed with features, has a great picture and sound.
I've read other comments about the noisy motor and it's true that the motor is a little louder than I thought it would be. However, after indoor recording in quiet rooms for testing, I haven't been able to hear the motor during playback on my computer or TV. I think it's a negligible problem that wouldn't deter me from a purchase of this otherwise amazing piece of technology.
40 It is a good Comcorder.
I have this comcorder about 2 weeks. I will say that it is a good Comcorder indeed.However, I found two prolems come with this comcorder. First, there is a little bit noise. Second, there is no A/V IN function that I could not record program from TV.
41 Very Loud Annoying Buzzing Noise
I have just purchased a unit last March 28, 2003 but decided to return it back because of this very loud annoying buzzing noise that somewhat emanates I suspect from the motor that controls the VCR and CAMERA mode. I have gone to other stores and tried/tested other units of the same model and as well a model of this line that has less options and found that it too possesses the same problem as I may call it, "Very Loud Annoying Buzzing Noise". I love the features that this particular camcorder offers but decided otherwise because of this noise but if you decided to purchase one, please do try and post your findings around here. I hope Sony relizes and find a fix to this if indeed this is a problem because for me as a consumer it "BUZZING SOUNDS" surely is. I have an older Sony camcorder but this one is smooth and have no noise.
42 Very Loud Annoying Buzzing Noise
I have just purchased a unit last March 28, 2003 but decided to return it back because of this very loud annoying buzzing noise that somewhat emanates I suspect from the motor that controls while on VCR and CAMERA mode. I have gone to other stores and tried/tested other units of the same model and as well a model of this line that has less options and found that it too possesses the same problem as I may call it, "Very Loud Annoying Buzzing Noise". I love the features that this particular camcorder offers but decided otherwise because of this noise but if you decided to purchase one, please do try and post your findings around here. I hope Sony relizes and find a fix to this if indeed this is a problem because for me as a consumer it "BUZZING SOUNDS" surely is. I have an older Sony camcorder but this one is smooth and no noise at all.
43 very annoying buzzing noise that never goes away
I have just purchased a unit last March 28, 2003 but decided to return it back because of this very annoying loud buzzing noise that somewhat emanates I suspect from the motor that controls the VCR and CAMERA mode. I have gone to other stores and tried/tested other units of the same model and as well a model on this line that has less options and found that it possesses the same problem as I may call it, "Very Loud Annoying Buzzing Noise". I love the features that this particular camcorder offers but decided otherwise because of this noise but if you decided to purchase one, please do try and post your findings around here. I hope Sony relizes and find a fix to this if indeed this is a problem because for me as a consumer it "BUZZING SOUNDS" surely is. I own an older Sony camcorder but this one is smooth, just a beauty and no noise.
44 Small little wonder...
The DCR-TRV33 is a spectacular option for those looking for great video and stills in a compact camcorder.
* 1.0 Megapixel (Gross) Advanced HAD? CCD Imager
* Ultra Compact Design
* MiniDV Recording
* Professional Quality Carl Zeiss¨ Vario-Sonnar¨ Lens
* 10X Optical/120X Precision Digital Zoom
* 2.5" SwivelScreen? Touch Panel LCD Display (123K Pixels)
* Color Viewfinder (113K)
* USB Streaming
* Digital Still Memory Mode
* MPEG Movie EX Mode
* i.LINK¨* DV Interface (IEEE 1394)
* Super SteadyShot¨ Picture Stabilization System
* Super NightShot¨ and Color Slow Shutter
* Progressive Shutter System
* Playback Zoom
* Analog-to-Digital Conversion with Pass-Through
* InfoLithium¨ Battery with AccuPower? Meter System
* Stamina¨ Power Management System
What's in the box? DCR-TRV33 Camera, AC-L15 Power Adapter/In Camera Charger, NP-FM30 InfoLithium Rechargeable Battery, 8MB Memory Stick¨ Media, RMT-814 Wireless Remote Commander¨ Remote, 2 AA Batteries, A/V Cable, Lens Cap, Shoulder Strap, USB Cable, LCD Cleaning cloth, CD-ROM with USB Driver (Pixela ImageMixer Ver. 1.5)
45 Mega pixel resolution in an impressively compact package!!
Very good looking, easy to handle, and impressive video/photo image.
