Sony DCR-DVD92 DVD Handycam Camcorder w/20x Optical Zoom review:
1 stars (The ultimate guide to the faults of the Sony DVD92 model) - The Sony DCR-DVD92 model is entitled as "Easy Handycam" by Sony.

Something that even your kids can easily handle.

This then would makes Sony's cheaper model DCR-DVD92 quite an expensive child's game. However, I would suggest parents to stay away from it and keep away their children as well.

This is probably one of Sony's worst models ever.

True, it is small, light and full of gadgets, but one must keep in mind that it is not a new gameboy they are dealing with.



Here is a list that points out the most important faults (that cannot be reasoned with) of this particular model:

-The DCR-DVD92 can record in 3 different resolution modes: LP, SP and HQ.

Out of the three, only the HQ mode delivers a normal quality picture that is worth recording and saving. The other two are a laugh.

-Nevertheless, recording your video in HQ mode does not guarantee a smooth picture. The DCR-DVD92 seems to freeze the picture now and again, especially upon quick movement of the object, not to mention the camera holder. This may eventually lead to asynchronous results, i.e., voice and video do not match.

-Recording on small DVD discs: your videos must be short and not exceed the 20 minutes limit while using the HQ mode. First, it is very uncomfortable for one must carry many DVDs around. Second, it is costly: the simple DVD-R is for single use only and cost about 6-7 USD a piece. The more practical DVD-RW (or +RW) for multiple recordings may easily reach 15 USD. So let's say, you plan to go abroad and film the highlights, then you need at least 10 DVDs. Hey, that's about $150. It should make you think.

-The camera creates a DVD film (with a menu) of your recordings once the DVD disc is finalized. If you wish to store the files on your computer for later editing or for creating a longer film etc, then you must have the latest DVD editing software like NeroExpress or Vegas. Otherwise, you are stuck with many useless little DVDs running around your house.

-Taking stills: The DCR-DVD92 offers 2 modes for taking pictures, standard and fine. Both are of very poor quality. Pictures are in jpeg format and reach maximal volume of 140KB. So think twice before you press the button. It is neither worth the time nor DVD space.

-Should I go on? The manual (the English version) is 120 pages thick. Try finding which of its segments refer to your model. Apparently, the manual deals with 7 more models...that are much better than yours. Read the little words and find out that all the above faults are known to the manufacturer yet are described as "not a malfunction".

-The camera has a great zoom of x20 and offers up to x800 digitally; however, the latter results in evident pixilation, making it negligible.

-Sony normally offers long-life batteries, strong and durable pack. Would this model live up to the expectations concering its built-in DVD player/recorder? This is left to be seen.

True, the camera is easy to use, has splendid nightshot feature, nice rotatble LCD screen and so forth. True again, the DVD Handycam is new technology. Yet these are all mere excuses for a very bad product. I prefer to stick to my old Sony Handycam CCD-TR515E.


2 stars (Great for Beginners but if you want copies of video BEWARE) - We purchased this camera with the intention of taping our new baby and sending the video via email or making copies of our created DVD's to family and friends. YOU CANNOT DO THIS WITH THIS CAMERA WITHOUT PURCHASING ADDITIONAL VIDEO EDITING SOFTWARE (which can be expensive).



There is not a USB port on this camera so you can't download video from the camera directly to your computer. This camera is the only SONY model that does not come with video editing software. Buy the next step up camera and save yourself a future hassle if you want to copy your created DVD's or email your video to others.



I would have thought that with SONY's name and reputation that this camera would at least cover our basic video needs since it cost more than other brands with similar features. I am disapointed that now I have to go to the computer store and figure out which software package will convert .VOB files (from the camera) to .MPG or .AVI files which are more recognizable.




5 stars (I Love it!) - This camcorder is fabulous. It's extremely simple to use and is small enough to take everywhere and not feel like you are toting around extra baggage. Would fit in most handbags. I highly recommend it.

Sony DCR-DVD92 DVD Handycam Camcorder w-20x 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.