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My main reasons for buying this camcorder were the form factor and features that are not available on modern "professional" camcorders. Keep in mind this camcorder is from 1995 and is quite heavy. However, you will have a very hard time finding a modern SD camcorder that will have this one's durability, functionality and connectivity options. I have never used a real professional quality shoulder-mount-style camcorder before, so this is my first time purchasing and using one like this. I have only heard of the legendary Betacam SP format and decided it was time to try it out for myself. The camcorder offers excellent features that are lacking on today's prosumer (affordable) camcorders: - 2/3" 3CCD offers shallower depth of field and rich colors. - The noise level (grain) is surprisingly low, even at 18dB (perhaps I'm used to seeing the horrid grain produced by HD camcorders at this gain setting). - Physical lens controls that actually move lens elements rather than controlling servos inside the lens: I've never been able to grab focus this fast before! - The lens has quite a bit more zoom range and larger f-stop than most prosumer camcorders. - A real viewfinder: it's big, sharp, and very comfortable to use compared with today's cheap LCD viewfinders. - Everything you need to get to quickly is available on the side - no digging through menus to make common changes. This is especially helpful for the audio, white balance, and gain controls. - Status overlays in the viewfinder: I didn't know camcorders of this time period had that! - The included Fujinon lens is compatible with my PMW-EX1 Libec zoom controller. - Everything is customizable. You can choose your lens, viewfinder, microphone, and battery. The viewfinder and shoulder pad are easily adjustable as well. - 3 XLR inputs: one provides phantom power automatically for a shotgun mic, and the two others are conveniently located on the back (also with phantom power options). - Having used many Sony camcorders, this one felt familiar despite its age. - The true shoulder mount form factor "feels right" as opposed to prosumer camcorders that feel like oversized consumer camcorders. There are some drawbacks, however: - Short battery life: I recommend a battery belt because the stock battery only lasts 1 hour. - Short recording time: the longest Betcam SP small cassette lasts 30 minutes, but it's understandable considering that it records in broadcast quality, not the VHS stuff we are used to when we think of analog tape. Be prepared to spend a lot on tapes: they are $10 a piece. - No S-video or stereo RCA outputs on the camcorder: I would prefer to capture my footage in the highest quality, but the optional playback adapter does provide S-video and stereo XLR. - It's heavy! I feel spoiled using my small HD camcorders and will definitely need to get in shape to lug this one around. - No LCD screen: using it on a tripod will require a separate screen to be mounted on the camcorder somehow. - No OIS or EIS: again, I'm spoiled with modern technology. - No fine tuning of the white balance. - No slow shutter options. What you need to know: - This is a standard-definition camcorder from 1995: don't expect a crisp HD image like today's prosumer models. Technology changes fast. If you need HD and don't like heavy lifting, this is NOT the camcorder for you. - An analog-to-digital DV capture device is required to edit in your NLE of choice. Use a firewire (IEEE 1394) model for best quality.Read full review