Sony DCRTRV310 Handycam Digital Camcorder
By: Sony Average Rating: 4.0 Total Reviews: 44
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 On: 2004-12-23
I have had this camcorder for 4 years and I am still happy with the purchase.
For myself being a big guy, I was never comfortable with the tiny MiniDV camcorders out there, and the size of the Digital8 camcorders is a nice fit in my hands, without being too large and heavy for my wife to use comfortably.
I have not had much chance to do comparison testing, but the picture quality is very good. In some cases I might think the color is a bit undersaturated, but I prefer this to seeing colors pushed beyond what they should be. I have no complaints about the sharpness of the video. In very low light the picture doers become grainy; I suspect that new camcorders out there may do a better job in low light than the TRV310.
One thing I really like about this camcorder today is that it seems better built than the Digital8 models than Sony is currently producing. In addition, the lens is a bit larger on the early Digital8 models, so low light performance may actually be better than the current ones (but I have not done a comparison). I also will recommend the TRV130 for video editing; I have had no problems loading video off of the camcorder onto my Windows XP PC with a firewire cable.
My complaints on the camcorder:
1. Still uses tape, which can jam up inside the camcorder (luckily I havent lost a tape yet). Ive also been told specifically to use *only* Sony Hi8 / Digital8 tapes with this unit.
2. There is a manual exposure setting, which is good for shooting candlelit scenes, etc. But the camera is missing a manual white balance that I wish it had. The white balance is done automatically when the camera is turned on; when indoors with natural light I will point the lens to a blue object at powerup to eliminate a bluish tint to the picture; likewise if the indoor scene is lit I will point at a warm-toned object to eliminate everything looking orange.
3. The supplied Infolithium battery is useless. I which Sony would include one of the larger batteries as standard.
4. As mentioned above, low light performance could be better. The low light settings the camera provides are rarely used.
Altogether, Im very happy with this camcorder.
 On: 2003-08-12
The Sony DCR TRV310 works _very_ well as a Windows XP camcorder. Windows XP Professional include Windows Movie Maker. This el-cheapo free-bee isnt adequate. In 2002, Microsoft released a free upgrade: Windows Movie Maker 2. Version 2 ROCKS. With a whole host of new camera effects, a zoo of fades, excellent title and credit control, and very controllable multiple audio tracks, its possible to do quite a bit of movie editing, without paying a dime more for software. Version 2 even allows you to re-record your finished video back onto the camera! I bought my Sony DCR TRV310 used (partly broken). Since the input/output connections dont work properly, I just plug my TRV310 into the FireWire port, and use Windows Movie Maker 2s capture mode to control the camcorder -- right on the computer screen! I sent somebody some video I had shot, stored as a .WMV file on a CD-R. He sent me back a note thanking me for the DVD!!! This model is aging, and its cost is going down. Since it does everything youll want, including playing back 8-mm and Hi8 tapes directly into Windows XP in digital format, its still an excellent buy -- and an even better value than ever! Windows Movie Maker 2s minimum computer requirements are, CPU 1,500 Mhz (1.5 GHz), 512 K RAM, lots of disk space (20 GB+), and a FireWire port. Since Windows Movie Maker 2 uses Microsoft-specific storage formats, you may want to spend a few $$$ to purchase third-party video editing software, which will record to more formats, or give you DVD authoring capability. Suggested equipment upgrades for the TRV310: External clip-on microphone for better forward gain & extended bass sound; 8-hr InfoLithium battery HIGHLY recommended.
by: Anonymous On: 2003-03-31
The B&W viewfinder is better than color for manual focus and contrast. Having both in the package is a plus and not a negative.
On: 2003-01-15
This must have been the best handycam for the price when I bought it! And I love the death out of it! All I can say is that this camera would still be great if it were still manufactured, 3 years later! If you find one someone who is selling this camera in good condition, by all means get it! Its a great camera!
On: 2001-12-28
This camcorder is great and has every feature you need. It is self expainatory and easy to use. The best feature is the digital camera which takes photos along with being a digital recorder. The only thing that would make it better is if it recorded onto a floppy. The color screen monitor is awesome and the microphone picks up every quite detail. It is well worth the investment and we enjoy it a lot!
On: 2001-06-11
I use it all the time, great videos and stills for recording on VHS or copying to the computer and sending through email. Nightshot is a great feature too. Mostly, the quality is the best I have ever seen.
On: 2000-08-17
I bought the TRV310 over 1 year ago and since then I have made 5 short films using the camera and the Miro DV200 digital video capture card for my PC.I just recently got out of art school studying to be a computer animator so I have tried all sorts of digital effects with this camera after digitizing the footage and it works great! I have shot footage of one of my friends weilding fake Star Wars lightsabers and then added the glowing beams in a 3D modeling package, where doing so I had to edit nearly every frame... each frame output from this camera is crisp and clear at 720x480. Even on fast motion shots (the swinging of a fake lightsaber)! I would HIGHLY recommed the Miro DV200 card if you own one of these cameras and want to do any sort of non-linear editing. It connects right into the cameras firewire port on the front and allows you to view, capture and control the camera using your PC. Once you are done editing the footage, the card will output the edited movies right back to the camera so you can play them on your TV or put them on a VHS tape! Its also GREAT for video for the web. I start a new job across the country next week working in the video games industry and this camera is going to document my entire moving experience! EXCELLENT purchase, I would highly recommend it to anyone wishing to do any sort of digital video project. When combined with a digital video capture card and non-linear editing software you can produce some HIGH QUALITY results!
On: 2000-08-16
I have last years model of this camera. The entire line of these Digital8 cameras is great for the average family or amateur videographer. There are many plusses to these cameras. First, they use cheaper Hi8 MP/ME tapes with 1 hour of record time. Image quality is great - not as good as higher quality prosumer or pro cameras - but still a MAJOR step up from VHS, Hi8 or any other non-digital camera. The firewire interface makes bringing footage into your computer a snap. Youll finally be able to edit those home movies that have been collecting dust on your shelves over the years. The camera records the date, time, exposure and other information to a data track on the tape. That means you can see the date/time stamp when you play the footage back without burning it into the actual video. My only critique of this camera is that fastforward and rewind speeds are a bit slow, theres no control over your audio levels, and little control over shutter sped...but those are more prosumer options, anyway.
 On: 2000-07-29
This sony camcorder TRV 310 is having IC defalt and after few hours of use screen will flash and the system will shut down.This is not worth at all.I do not recoment any one to buy this product.
by: Anonymous On: 2000-07-28
this was a great buy right from the start, the picture quality on this camcorder is the best ive seen. the outdoor quality of this product was especially good, even in low light or other difficult situations.
by: Anonymous On: 2000-06-12
Sony has been the top in electronics for many years, and the DCR-TRV310 Digital Handycam just gives them a bigger push. The new age of digital camcorders is amazing, especially the new Digital8 technology. I didnt have an 8mm camcorder when I bought the 310, and most people think the only reason to get D8 is because of all around 8mm compatibility...not true at all! I researched for at least 2 years, from VHS, 8mm, DV, Hi8- virtually every format in the industry, until my grandfather received the DCR-TRV103. I was amazed with the digital picture, sound, PC compatibility, and overall SUPER HIGH QUALITY! The only other digital format I had looked @ was MiniDV, but in my eyes, I found it physically too small and fragile, and if some people think the MiniDV tapes are expensive, the camcorders are 10 times worse. Also, the MiniDV usually jitters much more than any other format, (even with image stablization). I started looking at Digital8 and fell in love! I never imagined a Consumer camcorder to be equipped with SO MANY features. From Steadyshot, Stamina, InfoLITHIUM, Laserlink, i.LINK, to Nightshot- theres nothing this digital wonder doesnt have (except audio dubbing, but thats what i.LINK is for!) Even if you dont have old 8mm or Hi8 analog tapes, D8 is still a heavy competition with DV. Yes, compared to MiniDV, D8 is slightly larger, (usually an inch or so in width or depth), but D8 compared to regular DV, VHS, and even VHS-C, the DCR-TRV310 is TINY enough to carry BACKPACKING, HIKING, FISHING, CAMPING, or anywhere where your isolated and need to remember it without regretting it. And the low-power consumption raises performance to a longer an better level. About tapes...the cost of high-quality analog tapes is CHEAP compared to MiniDV. HME, HMP, and standard 8mm all give convience to D8 that MiniDV just doesnt have, and with the SAME extreme high-quality. LCDs and Viewfinders...the most difficult decision to make. What size? 2.5"? 3"? 3.5"? 4"! Hard decision? Not with the DCR-TRV310, unless you dont mind paying a little bit more for awesome viewing control (its worth it!) Viewfinders are also an issue with some people who rely on it as much as the LCD. Some find color to be much better for quality, and others Love black and white, (I do! It conserves power more than color) And if you only care about a viewfinder as an occasional backup for bright sun, low battery, or even privacy, B/W might be good. The 310s 3.5" LCD and B/W viewfinder are a perfect combo. Last, quality and reliabilty...the TRV310s amazing (Sony-built) ability to deliver EXTREMELY high-quality images, sound, and effects is not uncommon for a SONY! In fact, thats how most people see the DCR-TRV310 and Sony, as the BEST! Sonys products, especially the D8 DCR-TRV310 camcorders are the most reliable and products today! Sonys done it again with the amazing, revolutionized, SEMI-PRO DCR-TRV310...AWESOME JOB SONY!
On: 2000-06-04
Before purchasing this, my first camcorder, I did alot of pricing and feature comparison. I came down to this one because it offered me what I needed the most for the least amount of money and with quality assurance. I wont lie, I like Sony products and find them to be trusted. The feature I liked about this camera was its ability to work very nicely with my PC. The quality editing I have done as an amateur, I have been very impressed with. User friendliness is a plus. The only complaint is the design. I would move the menu wheel to a more prominent position for ease of accessibility during operation and I would definitely move the record/standby button or the handle hook, one or another, so they dont interfere with each other. Those I can work around..for the price of dependability and end product quality.
On: 2000-06-03
I have the model below this, TRV-110. Digital is where its at. No matter how many times over I record my 2-month old son on the same tape, the picture quality does not diminish. It is extremely amazing. I did a PCN performance up in SF and I had great close-ups from the back row. Built-in mic is o.k., I would recommend upgrading that. Also, upgrade the battery to at least to an 8-hour. Theres cool features too. Picture mode will record 5-sec stills. Playback that on your VCR with music hooked up to the audio in and youve got a musical slide show! My wife has been experimenting that with our wedding pix. Nice stuff! A lot of video effects, Ive yet to learn. This thing also has night vision! In the dark, it shoots our infared beams that act like a spotlight. Very cool. This cam as well as its upgrade very recommended! -Neil
On: 2000-06-02
I have the model below this, TRV-110. Digital is where its at. No matter how many times over I record my 2-month old son on the same tape, the picture quality does not diminish. It is extremely amazing. I did a PCN performance up in SF and I had great close-ups from the back row. Built-in mic is o.k., I would recommend upgrading that. Also, upgrade the battery to at least to an 8-hour. Theres cool features too. Picture mode will record 5-sec stills. Playback that on your VCR with music hooked up to the audio in and youve got a musical slide show! My wife has been experimenting that with our wedding pix. Nice stuff! A lot of video effects, Ive yet to learn. This thing also has night vision! In the dark, it shoots our infared beams that act like a spotlight. Very cool. This cam as well as its upgrade very recommended! -Neil
by: Anonymous On: 2000-06-02
Sony TRV 310 is not worth for 999.99. The accessories are very expensive, with out accessories you can not enjoy with this camcorder.I do not recoment this product to other people.
On: 2000-05-21
As this was my first cam-corder, I did a lot of research before purchasing this camera. The picture quality is amazing. Have taken a lot of video from a moving semi-truck and the steady cam worked great. I also purchased the A-V cordless receiver so all you do is point the camera at the TV and playback, works nicely. I have the Sony 35" Triniton TV connected to my audio system and playback is wonderful. Coupled with the Snappy, a video digitizer, its easy to capture snapshots from the video and e-mail or post pictures on the web. Very pleased with this camera and would buy it again.
 On: 2000-05-19
Bought and quickly returned the product within 10 days. Bought this item primarily to get a better picture quality than my old VHSC. Under optimal light conditions, worked just great. Under too much of Sun, the colors are not at all true and the picture appears too garish. On the other hand, under low light condition, the picture is very grainy. Even under a 300W halogen lamp, the picture quality is very poor. So, you can very well forget about shooting under, say, fluorecent light. This is because, unlike most of the VHSC or Hi8 camcorders, this camcorder requires a minimum of 4 lux of light for normal filming. Unless you are ready to invest on extra light, this product is just not worth. For those who have extra light (which can cost you a lot), this camcorder generates just fabulous picture quality.Another major disadvantage is lack of vendor choice. There are about 56 major companies that make mini DV camcorders. While only Sony makes digital8. So, if you buy digital8, you are stuck with Sony for ever as no other camcorder can play you cassettes back. While mini DV is industry standard, digital8 is Sonys proprietery. Another aspect that is really bad is the battery life. It really sucks. One thing that is great about this product is its sound quality. Almost like CD.
On: 2000-05-11
This is my first camcorder & I am 100% satisfied with the product. I am a loyal Sony consumer, but I looked at all the competition before deciding on this one. I choose the DCV-310 because even though I felt it was a little pricey, it had all the features I wanted plus some extra toys to play with. Both myself & my wife are learning to film with this camera & find it to be very user friendly. Ive experienced the same picture quality problems other users report, but I find this is due more to my lack of operational knowledge. As I learn more about filming, & using the camera features, my videos have vastly improved. I strongly feel that for the money Sony should have included a higher capacity battery. I also found that I am beginning to need some of the accessories i.e. larger batt., stand(remote), light attach., & more as my skills grow. I feel this camera will last me well until I am ready to upgrade to the next higher skill level & very much predisposes me to purchase a Sony camcorder again.
On: 2000-03-30
I have had the 310 for about 2 months -- I am not sure if its something IM doing but when I watch the video on TV (i.e., with the cables hooked to the camera) -- it seems like some shots are pretty clear and others are VERY VERY "grainy" and this is very upsetting to me -- after all I thought I was paying for "digital" and that that was supposed to give me the best possible picture ever! I have tried the different "auto exporsure" icons and it seems that that improves the picture a good deal -- but I wouldnt say its the "greatest" picture Ive ever seen! Thank you!
On: 2000-03-29
I have had the 310 for about 2 months -- I am not sure if its something IM doing but when I watch the video on TV (i.e., with the cables hooked to the camera) -- it seems like some shots are pretty clear and others are VERY VERY "grainy" and this is very upsetting to me -- after all I thought I was paying for "digital" and that that was supposed to give me the best possible picture ever! I have tried the different "auto exporsure" icons and it seems that that improves the picture a good deal -- but I wouldnt say its the "greatest" picture Ive ever seen! Thank you!
On: 2000-03-29
After graduating from the Sony FX11 8M (top of the line in its time)to the TRV310 the only real noticible difference was the picture sharpness, color left a little to be desired. What really upset me was the grain i was getting in different lighting situations. My old Sony 8M w/1 lux was superior in this respect. Not pleased at all I took it back and purchased the TRV87 Hi8 which replaces the famed TRV66..Same camera except the TRV87 plays Standard 8M tapes as well as Hi8. In comparison to the digital8 310 model, the picture clarity/sound were the same, the Hi8 had truer color reproduction, longer battery life, longer recording times and is superior in filming in low light conditions with its 0.7 Minimum lux compared to the 4.0 minimum lux of the Digital8 cameras. Forget the Nightshot feature on both cameras, horrible. So,in my opinion the Sony TRV87 Hi8, you get an overall superior camera with a proven track record. The Digital 8 models definately needs improving to exceed the Hi8 in overall performance to warrant their higher price. BTW, I just love the TRV87, an awesome camera in every respect.
On: 2000-03-18
I have owned my TRV310 for approx. 9 months now. For the money this is a fantastic camera that completely blows away similarly priced analog cameras. The main reason? Its digital! No more tape dropouts! I videotaped an entire season of High School football on the same 2 tapes (9 games) and even after 9 re-cycles, there was not a single dropout or tape error. Amazing! The image is equivalent to mini-DV (the main varaible being the type of lenses that the cameras may use) and it has been totally reliable under many different conditions. On the downside, there is no manual white balance and no manual volume control for the audio. If Sony had included these 2 features I would have given this camera a 5 star rating. Also, the LCD screen is extremely difficult, if not impossible, to use outdoors in bright sunlight. (This is a problem with all camcorder LCD screens and not just this one). All in all I would say that for the money, this camcorder is a spectacular value. Now if Sony will only come out with a Digi-8 record/playback deck so I dont have to use my camcorder as a VCR.
 On: 2000-01-16
Well, I had read all the reviews of this model on Amazon and based my purchasing decision partly on this information. I expected picture quality from the 310 to be at least as good as my old PAL Sony 8mm. However, after 2 weeks of using the 310 we had to conclude that it simply provides inferior picture quality in most lighting situations. Inferior in both colour reproduction and in clarity, whatever the technical specs. say. For example, I have a coat with a maroon sleeve but this appeared bright red whatever exposure or program setting I used; same with the shop model we checked with when returning the purchased unit to the store - it didnt appear to be just a snafu with the particular unit we had purchased. We also compared the 310 picture with the supposedly inferior Panasonic 910 and both colour and clarity were actually better on the latter. Why? What is Sony playing at? We were expecting twice the clarity ("resolution") and 3 times the colour depth from this Digital 8 camera, as widely advertised. What are they talking about? When it comes down to it, its about picture quality, no matter what bells and whistles the machine has.Boy, was I glad to get my money back!
On: 2000-01-12
Love this camera- Editing software on my PC is easy. You dont need to buy lots of HI8 or Digital8 tapes because you can just copy what you recorded onto a regular VHS tape on your VCR. This camera is so easy to use I didnt really need the manual to figure anything out. I dont see the need to go to the 510 unless you want a slightly bigger LCD. Make sure you buy an extended battery
On: 2000-01-11
Love this camera- Editing software on my PC is easy. You dont need to buy lots of HI8 or Digital8 tapes because you can just copy what you recorded onto a regular VHS tape on your VCR. This camera is so easy to use I didnt really need the manual to figure anything out. I dont see the need to go to the 510 unless you want a slightly bigger LCD. Make sure you buy an extended battery
On: 2000-01-05
Forget the other cameras. TRV-310 and the TRV-510 are the best ones for today... by far. Dont loose your time looking for other options because no other portable camcorder (in this category) can provide the features and the quality of these cameras. Ive played with my TRV-310 for about 10 days and I am really impressive with this camera. This is my fifth camcorder (all 8MM and HI-8) that I have used and this the best camera that I have seen. Some comments... The LCD screen on the 310 is amazing. Certainly the best LCD that I have seen in my life. It is clear, bright, sharp and big... 3.5 inches. The color is truer. It is a real pleasure to play my videotapes in any place with no connection with TVs. This is one of the most important features of this camera and you have to consider that in your analysis. You will use it a lot. The 20X optical zoom is enough and works fine (much better than my old hi-8 camera). The PAUSEs are terrific. It is impossible to avoid the PAUSE key. Try to press the SLOW key and you will get a limpid and crystalline image. I have lots of videos recorded on 8 and hi-8 format. The 310 is capable to play black perfectly any videotape on these formats. This camera is the right choice for everyone that have 8 and hi-8 tapes. Dont loose your time thinking to buy a mini-DV camcorder, you will have much more flexibility using the digital camera that supports your old tapes, with the same quality and flexibility. By the way, the hi-8 tapes are cheaper than the mini-DV tapes. I didnt see notable difference between the regular video and S video hookups to my TV. The included battery in not sufficient and an additional battery is very important. The infrared nightshot works very fine (do you think that is it really important ? ). The 16:9 aspect ratio feature is wonderful At the beginning you dont give so much attention on that, but when you start to use you will love this alternative. If you have a 16:9 aspect ratio television this feature will be fantastic for you. If you are considering to buy this kind of TV (to see your DVDs) this can be a considerable feature to consider. One of the big things and rarely I see comments is the SOUND. The PCM System is fantastic. I connect the camcorder to my receiver system and I was surprised with the quality, clear and powerful sound. There is a huge difference between this PCM AUDIO SYSTEM and the audio system in my old hi-8 camera. Normally, when we study to buy a camcorder we dont invest so much time analyzing the audio, we keep focus on the video system and dont give importance to the audio. I am sure that the AUDIO SYSTEM of this digital camera will surprise you positively. You will feel the big difference if you connect the camera to a pro-logic Dolby surround sound receiver or a digital receiver. If you have a home theater system with Adobe Digital 5:1... THE BAD THING: The missing feature on the 310 is audio dubbing. For this kind of camera this feature will be important and convenient. I would like to record narration or add a sound track on the camera after Ive recorded the video. Based on the manual I can do this editing the video on my PC, but until now I didnt try it. So, I really dont know if it will work well... GRAINY VIDEO: I read some comments about to make sure you have plenty of light to avoid a slightly grainy on the video. This is true but not at all. The illumination is not a bid deal... Dont make your decision using this comment as important ! In most of the 95% of the time you will be recording with enough light to make a brilliant and wonderful video.... So, the other 5% of the time you can face poor light and you will have a little bit grainy in your video... And so what ? The important here is that other cameras have the same problem, so it is not a decisive factor for buyers... Dont waste time with these comments... Finally... I made a very deep analysis comparing the TRV-510 and TRV-310, the 310 is probably the good choice because it has the most advanced features with less cost.Repeating a comment that I saw below... The 310 is LIGHT YEARS beyond the other ones...
On: 1999-11-19
I bought SONYs similar top of the line model TRV 510 shortly after becoming a new dad, this after much debate between the 310 and 510. I decided that the 510s features and extras were worth the added expense. Overall this camcorder does a very decent job of making digital home videos and digital stills, but make sure you have plenty of light, otherwise the results will be slightly grainy. Didnt notice the difference between the regular video and S Video hookups to my TV, SONY should have also included a titling function, the included battery is not sufficient for heavy taping and use, need to get the optional battery, at least 4 hrs, use the original for back-up. Still satisfed with my decision to get the TRV 510, but the TRV 310 would probably be a good choice too and also at less cost.
by: Anonymous On: 1999-11-10
I purchased my 310 about 3 months ago and am nothing short of thrilled with it. It is truly an amazing camera. I am a professional cameraman and that makes me ultra critical when it comes to any type of consumer video gear. The only downside to this camera is that I have no way of controlling the dB video gain level on the camera. The 310 uses its own automated gain according to the amount of light in a given scene. For those who dont know what I am talking about I mean that the image recorded becomes automatically more less or less grainy with the fluctuation of light levels. For example, if you are outside the camera automatically records at 0 dB, but as soon as you move it to an area with less light, the gain level begins to change, thus the image is recorded grainier as you move into areas with less light. That is my only real complaint about the 310. Among the main stellar features on this camera, one feature that I love is the true 16:9 aspect ratio. Other cameras and even the DCR-TRV8, which is the next step up in the Sony line of camcorders, do not have true 16:9 ability. They instead just put out two black borders on the top and bottom of the screen to simulate 16:9. This is a great feature especially if you have a 16:9 aspect ratio television. All in all, if you are looking to spend under a grand, look no further than to the DCR-310.
On: 1999-10-20
Ive played with this digital camcorder for about 5 days now and I am delighted with its quality and features. If anyones disappointed with the quality of the video (see reviews below), they are probably being unrealistic in their expectations. To get better video, youd have to go up to a 3CCD camera (at about 3times the cost!). As for those who say that the camera is too big and heavy, I say just TRY shooting a still video without a tripod with a camera as small as a paperback book! You NEED something larger to get a good steady picture (even with "steadyshot"). I appreciate Sonys innovative digital 8 because the tapes are less expensive, but you still have the quality of digital recording (the Pauses are terrific!). Im not worried that these tapes are not interchangeable with the mini-DV format. I mean, how often would I want to trade digital tapes with someone? I also have the option of playing back any old 8 or hi-8 videotapes that were previously recorded, and converting them to digital (try THAT with a mini-DV camcorder)! I like having A/V outputs AND inputs so that I can digitally record from a source other than the camera lens. The Sony infrared "nightshot" is astounding. Its like have nightvision goggles for your camcorder! The LCD screen on the TRV310 is WONDERFUL... 3.5 inches! The 20X optical zoom is sufficient, and going partway into the digital zoom aint too bad either (as long as you dont try to actually use the full 360X!) I cannot say enough good things at this point. If I have to find something negative to say, I wish some of the controls were in easier locations to get to while Im still filming. All in All, a nifty camcorder that I HIGHLY recommend!
by: Anonymous On: 1999-09-22
Traded up from a 6 year old Hitachi Hi-8 camcorder, hoping for greatly improved image quality. It is better, but not as great as I had expected. The camera is easy to use. The zoom works well and the 3.5" screen is super. My 4 year old loves to watch himself right after I film. Special effects are cool too. So far, only problem was a spec on the inside of the lens. It was exchanged, but I was surprised that would happen in a factory-sealed box. Otherwise it has functioned perfectly, which is a welcome relief after all the trouble I had with the Hitachi. Battery life is incredible! They actually last as long as they say. I reccommend the camera.
On: 1999-09-21
Traded up from a 6 year old Hitachi Hi-8 camcorder, hoping for greatly improved image quality. It is better, but not as great as I had expected. The camera is easy to use. The zoom works well and the 3.5" screen is super. My 4 year old loves to watch himself right after I film. Special effects are cool too. So far, only problem was a spec on the inside of the lens. It was exchanged, but I was surprised that would happen in a factory-sealed box. Otherwise it has functioned perfectly, which is a welcome relief after all the trouble I had with the Hitachi. Battery life is incredible! They actually last as long as they say. I reccommend the camera.
by: Anonymous On: 1999-09-16
I bought the big brother, the 510, but not at Amazon. This camera is TOO COOL! Lots of features. The 510 has a serial output for your computer if it doesnt have fire wire. Bigger 4 inch screen and color viewfinder. Uses cheaper 8mm and hi-8 tapes; I cant tell the difference. Biggest gripe: As all digital camcorders (?), will only stay in stby 3 minutes, then switches off! Stupid. Shooting wildlife, getting the shot is more important than the charge on a battery. Get the larger battery and use the original as a backup. Also get an aftermarket battery holder so you can charge it outside the camera. Its dumb to tie up your camera just so you can re-charge.
by: Anonymous On: 1999-08-30
I owned a Sony Hi-8, top-of-the-line camcorder for 5 years. It had every bell and whistle available, but broke down frequently (at very inopportune times like family reunions, kids firsts, etc.). I recently purchased the 310 after doing some research. It is LIGHT YEARS beyond the one I replaced! The color is truer, the controls are cleaner and less noisy, and the digital capability is tremendous! The LCD swing-out screen is bright and crisp, and the B&W viewfinder is sharp (and doesnt consume much battery life). Speaking of batteries, go for the extra 10hour battery. You will add a little size and weight to the unit, but the extra time is well worth the $130 or so. Sony has come a long way in the last 5 years, and I highly recommend this camcorder. We just recorded a live theater performance, and the video/audio are better than anything else weve seen.
On: 1999-08-29
I owned a Sony Hi-8, top-of-the-line camcorder for 5 years. It had every bell and whistle available, but broke down frequently (at very inopportune times like family reunions, kids firsts, etc.). I recently purchased the 310 after doing some research. It is LIGHT YEARS beyond the one I replaced! The color is truer, the controls are cleaner and less noisy, and the digital capability is tremendous! The LCD swing-out screen is bright and crisp, and the B&W viewfinder is sharp (and doesnt consume much battery life). Speaking of batteries, go for the extra 10hour battery. You will add a little size and weight to the unit, but the extra time is well worth the $130 or so. Sony has come a long way in the last 5 years, and I highly recommend this camcorder. We just recorded a live theater performance, and the video/audio are better than anything else weve seen.
On: 1999-08-25
This camcorder is highly capable. The quality of the pictures/zoom and the features are outstanding. However, instead of buying this camcorder, I purchased the similar TRV-510. The TRV-510 has a color viewfinder rather than the B&W that comes with the TRV-310. Even better, the TRV-510 comes with the ability to take digital stills and save them onto a 2MB memory chip rather than onto tape, and then to download these stills directly into your PC WITHOUT any need to buy a video capture card. The TRV-510 is a great way of getting a 640x480 digital camera and a digital camcorder in one device!The only problem, of course, is that Amazon doesnt (yet) sell the TRV-510...
On: 1999-08-24
This camcorder is highly capable. The quality of the pictures/zoom and the features are outstanding. However, instead of buying this camcorder, I purchased the similar TRV-510. The TRV-510 has a color viewfinder rather than the B&W that comes with the TRV-310. Even better, the TRV-510 comes with the ability to take digital stills and save them onto a 2MB memory chip rather than onto tape, and then to download these stills directly into your PC WITHOUT any need to buy a video capture card. The TRV-510 is a great way of getting a 640x480 digital camera and a digital camcorder in one device!The only problem, of course, is that Amazon doesnt (yet) sell the TRV-510...
On: 1999-08-20
As a camcorder it lives up to all the expectations of an average buyer. But I found it really excel when I connected it to my Sony VAIO computer through the i-Link (IEEE-1394 / FireWire) port. With the DVGate Motion software supplied with the computer, capturing digital video with precision becomes child play. I can edit these videos with Adobe Premiere LE and upload the video back to the camcorder and transfer it to VHS tape through a VCR. What makes this process incredibly easy is the controlling capability built into the camcorder. You connect it to the PC and forget it. You can then Rewind, Cue, mark In and Out points and initiate a perfect video capture all from the computer with just mouse clicks! I was transformed from a video novice to an expert in just a week! Check out this combination.
by: Anonymous On: 1999-08-16
I bought this camcorder for two reasons:1) Exceptional imageand sound quality 2) Ability to digitally edit videos on my PC Thevideo quality is superb, with excellent auto-exposure capabilities. The 20x optical zoom is great -- I leave the digital zoom switched off. Good fades are complimented by some neat SFX modes -- image trails, sepia effect, slow "shutter speed" and (limited) image keying. The standard battery doesnt last much longer than an hour, so you should factor in the cost of an extended battery into your budget. If size is the most important thing, then you should look at DV format cameras. I found them to be too small -- the Sony camera size and weight make it easy to handle while not being a burden. Hi8 tapes are also much cheaper than DV tapes. For editing, there are several fully digital capture cards available for PCs and all support this camera You can edit and review video on your PC (in real time on some cards) and render back to the camera for final recording on tape. All without any analog<->digital conversion and therefore without any loss in quality. If quality is important, or you have any aspirations to editing your videos rather than just taping the kids, vacations and weddings, then this is the camera for you.
On: 1999-08-15
I bought this camcorder for two reasons:1) Exceptional imageand sound quality 2) Ability to digitally edit videos on my PC Thevideo quality is superb, with excellent auto-exposure capabilities. The 20x optical zoom is great -- I leave the digital zoom switched off. Good fades are complimented by some neat SFX modes -- image trails, sepia effect, slow "shutter speed" and (limited) image keying. The standard battery doesnt last much longer than an hour, so you should factor in the cost of an extended battery into your budget. If size is the most important thing, then you should look at DV format cameras. I found them to be too small -- the Sony camera size and weight make it easy to handle while not being a burden. Hi8 tapes are also much cheaper than DV tapes. For editing, there are several fully digital capture cards available for PCs and all support this camera You can edit and review video on your PC (in real time on some cards) and render back to the camera for final recording on tape. All without any analog<->digital conversion and therefore without any loss in quality. If quality is important, or you have any aspirations to editing your videos rather than just taping the kids, vacations and weddings, then this is the camera for you.
On: 1999-07-29
Im a filmaker and I purchased this camera with the intent on making low budget features, It has an outstanding picture and I actually have filmed 2 shorts and am working on a feature with it. Its worth every dime, I havent had one problem with the camera...The only thing I wish they could develop is an editing program for the PC that does it justice.
On: 1999-07-29
I just recently purchased the Sony DCR TRV 310 for personal home use and to assist me in producing a television show that I am working on. The 310 has proven to be better than any of the professional models out there costing $10,000 - $20,000. I plan on getting a few more units and software so I can produce my shows right here at home on my computer. Get the 310...you wont be sorry.
On: 1999-07-28
I just recently purchased the Sony DCR TRV 310 for personal home use and to assist me in producing a television show that I am working on. The 310 has proven to be better than any of the professional models out there costing $10,000 - $20,000. I plan on getting a few more units and software so I can produce my shows right here at home on my computer. Get the 310...you wont be sorry.
On: 1999-07-27
Took camera to Vegas and to the grand canyon. This camera has the most amazing zoom Ive ever seen for the price. Rivels those network cameras that are used for the NFL games. Another great feature is I can (with the optional IR light) take pictures in total darkness for up to 100 feet. Sony has outdone itself on this product.
On: 1999-07-24
If you are looking for the best camcorder in the market, stop looking this little toy has it all. The quality of the picture and sound are so great the you will feel and see every thing that you filmed as if you where there LIVE again. If you have a home theatre system with Adobe Digital 5.1 you will really see what I mean. The only down side is you will need a battery that lasts longer and make sure you get more tape.
On: 1999-07-23
If you are looking for the best camcorder in the market, stop looking this little toy has it all. The quality of the picture and sound are so great the you will feel and see every thing that you filmed as if you where there LIVE again. If you have a home theatre system with Adobe Digital 5.1 you will really see what I mean. The only down side is you will need a battery that lasts longer and make sure you get more tape.
by: Anonymous On: 1999-07-23
We got one of these a couple of months ago, in anticipation of our baby coming in October, and have had some time to play with it (sorry, I mean "practice" :) - excellent results. It did a great job at a nephews (night) softball game, and with the still-capture card (about $220 mailorder) it does pretty well for snapshots and the like to email the relatives. I actually prefer the B&W viewfinder, the color one is pretty fuzzy/pixelated, B&W a lot sharper. And the flip-out screen is just the right size. Get one of the extended batteries, they work as well as advertised. An hour per tape hasnt been a problem for us yet, its easy to switch tapes, and theyre small.
by: Anonymous On: 1999-07-20
Ive had one of these for a couple of months now (regrettably I didnt get it at the amazon.com knock-down price). Its really easy to use, very convenient. Battery life and charging speed is great too.
by: Anonymous On: 1999-07-20
Have used this product for everything from vacations to weddings. The result has been incredible. The drawbacks to be noted are; if using the photo mode while videotaping the camera goes into standby after the 7 seconds of photo capture instead of back into record mode; video cassettes allow for only 1 hr of taping per tape in Hi8, big drawback. On the up side ... great fades,also,theres an easy to use dial to increase & decrease light into the video (on the fly), making low light situations easy to video with great quality.In addition, Ive purchased the zoom mic and found the sound to be quite good.
On: 1999-07-19
Ive had one of these for a couple of months now (regrettably I didnt get it at the amazon.com knock-down price). Its really easy to use, very convenient. Battery life and charging speed is great too.
On: 1999-07-19
Have used this product for everything from vacations to weddings. The result has been incredible. The drawbacks to be noted are; if using the photo mode while videotaping the camera goes into standby after the 7 seconds of photo capture instead of back into record mode; video cassettes allow for only 1 hr of taping per tape in Hi8, big drawback. On the up side ... great fades,also,theres an easy to use dial to increase & decrease light into the video (on the fly), making low light situations easy to video with great quality.In addition, Ive purchased the zoom mic and found the sound to be quite good.
by: Anonymous On: 1999-07-15
I am a video professional, doing major sporting events, weddings, and stage performances. This camcorder works beautifully in all venues. I often run it in manual exposure mode to control harsh lighting conditions, with beautifully exposed stills and video. I use manual focus for creating front-to-back focusing effects. The focusing ring provides good feel, although not directly coupled. The best part: I can control my camera from my Sony computer, downloading stills and video segments for computer editing through a "firewire" port on the camcorder. I professionally edit the video segments in the computer, then copy the finished video back to the camcorder, WITH NO LOSS IN RESOLUTION! I was so happy with this unit, I bought a second one!
On: 1999-07-14
Gives excellent digital pictures and 7 second still shots. Light weight with easy hand control. The only draw back is the ON/OFF record button has a delay action when turning off. If not visually identified to be in standby it may still be filming. Other wise for the money its a quality machine.
by: Anonymous On: 1999-07-14
I have just returned from a three week visit to Shanghai, Beijing and Cambodia and used the TRV310 throughout. Excellent quality video: sharp definitions, striking color, good in low light. This is my fifth 8mm (& Hi-8) camcorder and it far surpasses anything I have used in past. Many visual effects--almost too many. Major difference between this and the TRV510 is a somewhat smaller foldout screen and black and white viewer. Modest price compared to full digital cams. Slight and only ocasional camera noises during high volume playback. Highly recommended--not top-of the line full digital, but one can still use all previous 8mm and Hi-8 mm tapes--so if you are trading up you have not forsaken your past. Good feel with low light and even 0 lux capabilities, though obviously the quality of the latter is poor.
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