I've had the camera since Xmas and run about an hour of tape through it so these comments are based on that short evaluation.
It is very comfortable to hold. It was smaller than I expected. Its actually a no bigger than your typical Hi8 cam.
The hand grip on the top with integrated zoom and record buttons is very nice. It really makes it comfortable filming the wee ones as they scurry about. You can just let the camera hang by your side and operate the controls with your thumb.
Having said that, the zoom on the handle is not an ergonomic wonder. It is a very short throw on/off switch with no tactile feedback. Also, it gives me fits. A couple of times I couldn't stop it from zooming. I'm not sure if I have a wanky one or if I'm just not comfortable with it yet.
The picture quality is much better than I've seen from any of your typical modern consumer cams. Still, because of its high resolution I notice more video noise with it in typical lighting than was apparent with my old 8mm. In low light the image remains incredibly low in noise. The picture holds together pretty well. I'll add some video grabs taken with nothing but 3 candles for lighting.
The VCR control could really use a "jog" dial. I have a bit of a problem getting to the exact frame I want to. I think there is more control with the remote...haven't played with it enough.
The 20X flourite zoom is wonderful. On an outdoor shoot I was able to film my one son sledding down the hill then turn the camera to my other son, sledding down a different hill a distance away without moving...and have him fill the shot. The optical image stabilization works very well.
This thing sucks down the batteries. My first one was done in 1 hour (didn't even get through the 1/2 hour tape they provide with the camera.) Also, unlike the Sony's you don't get smart batteries (except for the very expensive 930R.) All you get is an indicator that tells you the level of the battery by quarters (ie. 1/4 full, 1/2 full.) On your typical Sony you will get a readout that tells you how long you have to go in minutes.
The build quality is very good and the camera has a definite professional look about it.
Overall, I'm pretty satisfied with this camera. I'll post more info and screen grabs as time permits.
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