Sony HC5 arrives

[zoobie]

After almost getting ripped off on eBay, my Sony HC5 just arrived from an authorized dealer. I was able to squeeze it into my budget with a 3 year warranty for just over $1000. I'm also making the jump from my old Canon hi8 A1 straight to HD. Now all I need is a new computer to handle the HD...heh. In the meantime, I'm downconverting to DV so my present box can handle it.

I really didn't look to see what the diff was between the HC3 & 5 but this thing was just released earlier this month...one happy camper. Now I just need a pro tripod and a stealthzoom for the lanc and I'm good to go.

I also read (too late) not to buy higher end stuff on ebay because sony won't honor the warranty...period. Fortunately, that deal fell thru. It has to be from an authorized dealer like b & h, etc. However, the Mack warranty may help in cases like this where it's not bought from an authorized dealer.

Lots of shades of gray so read up before you buy.

[zoobie]

damn..this thing is tiny...same guide as the 7 included
no need for a Bogen 3051 tripod
gonna havta rethink the tripod bit
woot!

[zoobie]

wtf?!
no lens hood!
no tape!
ha!

if anyone else is getting these cams, there's a few huge forums worth mentioning
www.sonyhdvinfo.com
www.dvinfo.net

there's a whole camera support forum...literally
this is where I found how to convert to an A1U lens hood and a full function remote LANC for $39

back to the tripod...read at sites above that you just can't get a pro pan without spending serious money...like $800...and get close to pro for around $300.
since I don't pan much, I'll just go with the best cheapo for now

[zoobie]

I minds well add tips for purchasing prosumer cams on eBay (not recommended unless an authorized dealer selling on eBay).

Buying a new cam on eBay voids the mfg warranty (unless it's an authorized dealer selling on eBay). Sony and others require cash register receipts from authorized dealers. You'll have to buy a Mack extended warranty, pray it doesn't break, and wait until the first year passes for it to kick in.

Consistent feedback: Not someone selling 5 cents items and all a sudden trying to sell a $2,000 camera.

History of rating: Someone who has been active, not an account revived from death.

Positive: Read the trend of the rating and look very close on any neutral or negative. Stay with someone with 98% and above.

Ask questions and judge the promptness, sincerity of the reply.

Vague descriptions: Appears to function properly, no battery to test, etc...forget these. Somethings usually wrong with the (probably used) cam.