Sony CCDTRV98 Hi8 Camcorder

Sony's compact CCD-TRV98 Hi8 camcorder is basic enough for even the newest video enthusiast, yet packs enough features to please intermediate level users who wants more bang for the buck. The camera's cordless laser-link capabilities, infrared NightShot feature, remote control and numerous menu options should please technologically savvy hobbyists. With a street price that should fall well below the $500 suggested price, this camera has enough features to make it an appealing camcorder choice.

Weighing only 2 pounds, the Sony TRV98 is about half the size of a shoebox. Well-balanced, it easily fit in one hand and the camera strap allowed comfort in almost any position. The left side of the unit features a 3.5-inch flip-out color LCD viewscreen, and the menu, date and time, display, exposure and counter buttons reside underneath it on the camera's body. There is a small black and white viewfinder at the top of the camera.

Even though many functions were activated through an on-screen menu, the menu/focus wheel, which controls most of the camera's functions, is easily accessible on the lower-left side at the back of the camera. With it, we could easily navigate the menu, although using it for manual focus was frustrating.

The Record button, well placed on the right side of the camera's back end, sits exactly where the thumb most comfortably falls. The smooth, variable-zoom slider switch lies on top of the camera near the Record button and we could comfortably reach it with either hand. The transport control buttons reside on top of the camera's right-hand side, over the tape transport. A built-in light is at the front of the camera, and a tiny button placed near the tape transport buttons controls it.