Can some US miniDV camcorders play back PAL miniDV tapes?

[rijir2001]

It is common for US DVD players to play back PAL format DVDs. How about miniDV camcorders? Can some of them play back PAL discs? If so how can I find out which do?

[JohnnyMalaria]

Most DVD players (even the very cheap ones) can play both NTSC and PAL. However, it is usually the region code that causes the problem. So, usually PAL discs don't play because they aren't Region 1 or Region Free. A lot of the cheap players can be 'hacked' to make them play all regions.

For MiniDV camcorders, I assume you mean can they play PAL tapes. Well, some can and some can't. My Sony DSR-PDX10 can but it isn't documented.

[rijir2001]

Yeh that's the thing. Most of this kind of thing doesn't get documented. Just like pass through DV encoding with DV camcorders. A lot do it but it is never mentioned anywhere.

[edDV]

Assume most consumer DV camcorders won't play PAL. It is the exception. Prosumer models are more likely. Also some models sold in Duty Free shops.

[rijir2001]

I stopped in a BestBuy at lunch. I put my PAL DV tape in a Sony DCR-HC26 camcorder and it played it fine. The model retails for $280.00.

[edDV]

I stopped in a BestBuy at lunch. I put my PAL DV tape in a Sony DCR-HC26 camcorder and it played it fine. The model retails for $280.00.

If like some older high end models it may play to the LCD + IEEE-1394 port but not out the analog outputs nor accept analog PAL inputs. Camcorders should be multi-standard since many carry them around the world.

I usually carry my Canopus ADVC-100 to PAL territories since it is fully dual standard.