Sony DCR-TRV730 Digital8 Handycam Camcorder with Built-in Digital Still Mode

The black-and-white EVF is adequate, but the large 2.5-inch color LCD monitor is the better bet for framing your shots. MPEG movies and digital stills can be recorded onto the accompanying 4 MB Memory Stick, which can then be downloaded to your computer via USB. Like all DV camcorders, the audio is recorded at CD quality levels--PCM digital stereo. Should you need more professional sound than the built-in mic provides, a mic input jack is located on the camcorder.

Because the DCR-TRV730 uses the DV format, you can download your footage to a computer for editing using an IEEE 1394 cable. Analog pass-through ports are built-in, letting you digitally archive all your old analog footage. Also included are a shoulder strap, lens cap, battery, AC adapter, and remote control.

Product Description
Digital 8 system offers high quality digital images with over 500 lines of horizontal resolution and records 12 bit / 16 bit PCM digital audio. The Digital 8 Handycam is the only kind of Digital Handycam that can play back Video 8 and Hi8 analog video. Besides, the new recording pattern allows digital recording on 8mm tape, enabling users to keep their collection of analog recordings. With the A/D conversion function, it is possible to transfer analog recordings to digital format.The new models offer excellent capabilities for capturing digital images. Incorporated with Advanced Hole Accumulation Diode ?" 1.07 Mega-pixel CCD, the Digital 8 model DCR-TRV730 can deliver best-in-class digital video. Users can create short movie clips of MPEG1 up to 85 minutes and 20 seconds with an optional 128MB Memory Stick thanks to the newly added MPEG Movie Recording Mode. The digital image editing and transmission functions of the Digital 8 series are enhanced. The Digital Program Editing function lets users choose up to 20 image groups for the highly accurate synchronized editing procedure by an i.LINK DV in/Out Terminal (IEEE1394) or an infrared remote control. With the USB terminal, digital images can be transmitted directly from Memory Stick to PC at high speed. In addition, the i.LINK allows easy, speedy digital data transmission between Digital 8 Handycam, VCR and PC.The new model is equipped with an Intelligent Accessory Shoe, which allows users to use the innovative Shoe Attachable Portable Printer (PVP-MSH) to print images right after shooting or memory mixed pictures from memory mode with recording date marked, without any complicated connection or additional battery. And with the DCR-TRV730, you can enjoy Sony's entire line of Digital8 performance features like SteadyShot Picture Stabilization, Super NightShot 0 Lux infrared recording and 3 memory mix modes.

The picture is great!! Very crisp and clear DVD quality.

It is very easy to use. Within 5 minutes, I had it setup and ready to use. The controls are intuitive and well placed. However I would suggest reading through the excellent manual when you have a chance to learn about all the features.

The zoom is clear and the image stabilization works great. The night shot is really neat, but the "Super Night Shot" is only suitable for use with a tripod.

There are many built in special effects, like faders, B&W, Old Time Movie, etc...

The only thing to remember is that you will need IEEE 1394/FireWire ports and cable if you wish to copy/edit the video to your computer. The included USB connection is only for still images and MPEG movies on the memory card.

Overall a great camera, with professional results.


Great camera for someone not used to expensive cameras   March 14, 2002
 0 out of 2 found this review helpful

Used this for school and we are finding it works very well, so well, that our own high school is using this type of camera for all use of cameras for the school. Very reliable, high quality camera with easy to understand feautures and an easy way to film and to hold as well. Did have problem with lighting and trying to pick up sound at the same time but still very good.


Great Camcorder   February 25, 2002
 6 out of 6 found this review helpful

My comments on this camcorder are to help those who are not into specs but just plain English about this product.

First, my dislikes about this camera is

1. Black/White electric viewfinder - but the view is bright and clear
2. Don't expect to take great clear 35mm quality still pictures. The print quality is a bit grainy. You are better off buying a separate camera for still pictures; but at times, it adds excitement having a still shot here and there on your video recordings.

*Now, the good stuff* this is why this camcorder is rated a 5 (Best) *PICTURE QUALITY

This is the best video picture quality camcorder that I have owned. I previously owned a Canon UC20 with 410,000 pixels (great picture quality). This Sony DCR-TRV730 has at least 1,070,000 (according to the manual) pixels, which produces great color, clear and sharp video quality video recordings.

*Minimum Illumination needed is seven Lux/ zero Lux NightShot modes*

I was most impressed with the "Infra-Red NightShot" capability. Again, clear, sharp pictures. I put this camera through a test and I did not use my optional "HVL-IRH2 Video Light" - by recording in a room (with people inside the room) that was very dark - all lights were out and no sunlight. I was amazed with its quality and the clearness. The built-in infrared light was sufficient for a 20' X 30' size room. Note - NightShot will produce monochrome color. When I turn on my optional "HVL-IRH2 Video Light" (which has the capability of using its infrared or halogen lighting) the distance shooting was even greater and brighter, sharper picture quality. I advise purchasing an optional video light for inside recording, so you will get brighter, truer color and clarity. Even without the video light, normal room lighting still produced nice quality, clear video pictures. With the NightShot turned off and no optional video light, you will need sufficient room lighting in order to have excellent picture quality.

*Built-in 18X Optical /500X Digital Lens*

I also purchased the optional Sony .7x 37mm Digital Camcorder High Resolution Wide-Angle Conversion Lens (VCL-HG0737X). This added additional width and depth to my recording. The built-in lens did not have sufficient "width" for my recording in small close areas inside my home.

The supplied Infolithium battery pack with the Accupower meter system is rated for approximately 2.5 hours of recording. I was only able to get approx. 1.3 hours due to the way I take pictures - I work the camera - focusing in and out and using the fade mode, giving my video more of a professional appeal. I also make use of the Still Picture mode and use the Memory Stick to save those still pictures. I then transfer the pictures onto my computer. This battery communicates with the camcorder. It tells you how much remaining power in the viewfinder and on the back of the LCD display. Great tool and accessory.

Super Steady Shot Picture Stabilization System allowed me to take smooth looking video even when I had the shakes. I put the camera through another test -- I recorded a picture while riding in an old vehicle with poor shocks absorbers - if it was the excellent sound quality, which allowed you to hear the bumps and dips while riding, but the picture was flawless.

*8 Different Picture Effects*

This camera also allow you to change the picture affects to Black and White, Sepia, Negative Art, Pastel, Solarization, Slim, Stretch and Mosaic. This just adds pure fun to the video recordings.

This camera also allows me to still view my old 8mm tapes. I now record using Hi8 mm tapes.

Overall, I would not trade in this camcorder for another brand. This camera produces crystal-clear Digital8 pictures and CD quality sound. This camera allows an amateur photographer to feel and produce professional quality pictures.

You will also need to purchase another/stronger battery packs for those extended recordings. If you plan to record your Childs school program or take a family trip to Disney World/Land, you will definitely need a stronger battery. I suggest the "NP-FM70 or the NP-FM91 InfoLithium battery pack. Depending on your purchase they are rated between 5.5 hours to 10 hours estimated recording time. You should also purchase an optional video light, such as "HVL-IRH2" (approx [amt]) and an optional wide angle high grade lens, such as the Sony VCL-HG0737X. I paid [amt] including shipping for these lens. The price I paid for this camera was [amt] (new) including shipping and 8meg memory media stick. I got a Great Deal. This camera alone estimated US selling price is [amt] without shipping and only 4meg memory media stick (standard with this model). Be prepared to pay at least [amt] + shipping charges for this model without the optional accessories.