Hitachi DZ-MV730A DVD Camcorder w/16x Optical Zoom review:
5 stars (make sure you have a multi format DVD system if you use the RAM discs...) - i have had this unit for over a month (summer 2005), took it on a trip to Vegas and even in very high ambient heat there, it has performed flawlessly. also used both mini DVD-R (best general choice for most people) but also used and recorded to the mini DVD-RAM discs which come in those nice protective case cartridges.



AN IMPORTANT ISSUE;

on the RAM disc issue.... my home PC system did not have a DVD which could read the RAM format, so... i bought an LG GSA 5163D external drive which is both very affordable, and very good. the mini DVD-RAM cartridges have a small spring clip on each side which, when pressed inwards, allows the disc to be removed and played or read in a normal DVD drawer inner (mini) table. i believe you have seen those small circular depressions in the inside DVD tray... the 8 cm ones.



('they' say that the predictable life of the RAM media is 100,000 cycles with the housing and only 1,000 cycles without it.)



the LG drive also comes with a bunch of software and cables, connects both USB and Firewire, and is totally quiet.

with that drive, i can use and reuse the DVD-RAM on this Hitachi camcorder. without it, again, i only suggest anyone using this camcorder try the mini DVD-R format which plays on most every deck i have tried them on lately.



the camcorder came with one 120 minute battery. i bought an extra long life battery which is a good idea as i take this thing everywhere.



the ability of this unit to handle delicate shades of color and smooth details is very rewarding. depending on the resolution i pick, one of these small discs can hold at least 60 minutes of video. taking videos in low light conditions works down to around 0.3 lux. by the way, i have a small vac brush and use it after every shoot outside, and this was especially true in sandy Las Vegas.



Amazons delivery service is superb by the way!



this camcorder was one of the least expensive ones i found, and seems to do everything my older Mini-DV does, and the DVD format takes a few steps out of the process.

Hitachi DZ-MV730A DVD Camcorder w-16x Optical Zoom is the Electronics version. The full version can be purchased by clicking on the "CLICK HERE TO ORDER" button below for around  Too Low ToUSD.