I've been researching both and they almost seem identical in terms of features. It seems the used sony's go for slightly cheaper in most cases. I like the size of the Sony too. Which one would you choose?
Got a tip for us?
Let us know
Become a MacRumors Supporter for $50/year with no ads, ability to filter front page stories, and private forums.
Which one? Used Canon GL1 or Used Sony TRV900?
- Thread starter jayeskreezy
- Start date
- Sort by reaction score
Can't comment on the Canon, but have experience with the Sonys.
Have sent at least 3 of these models back to Sony for repair because of the built-in mics going bad over time. See problem mentioned in below thread:
http://dvinfo.net/conf/archive/index.php/t-16178.html
One repair lasted only a year, then went bad again. Repairs are not necessarily cheap. I've given up on these. Usually we use external mics anyway, but it is ridiculously limiting to have this problem -- what if you just want to grab a few shots outside, and you forget about this problem?
Apparently these mics had problems from the get-go, would deteriorate to the point where audio levels were very low or nonexistent.
If you go with one of these camcorders, at least always use headphones to monitor your sound (if using the built-in mic). Not a bad idea anyway (if possible), no matter which camcorder you use.
Good luck!
Have sent at least 3 of these models back to Sony for repair because of the built-in mics going bad over time. See problem mentioned in below thread:
http://dvinfo.net/conf/archive/index.php/t-16178.html
One repair lasted only a year, then went bad again. Repairs are not necessarily cheap. I've given up on these. Usually we use external mics anyway, but it is ridiculously limiting to have this problem -- what if you just want to grab a few shots outside, and you forget about this problem?
Apparently these mics had problems from the get-go, would deteriorate to the point where audio levels were very low or nonexistent.
If you go with one of these camcorders, at least always use headphones to monitor your sound (if using the built-in mic). Not a bad idea anyway (if possible), no matter which camcorder you use.
Good luck!
thanks! that's really helpful...i like to limit problems so I'll probably just do the canon....it's a hassle to send things in for repairs
puckhead193
macrumors G3
Never used the sony but i've used the Canon. Nice camera. The few times i captured footage into FCP it worked fine.
I own a Canon GL-1 from way back when. its been a great camera. The heads died recently, but I shot 100's of hours on the darn thing and always used it as my tape deck as well. Love the camera, very durable, and a image.
I'd recommend a GL-2 as it has a far superior image, even better than the XL-1s. And better color, sound control, and other such things. But can't go wring with the old canons. Good luck!
I'd recommend a GL-2 as it has a far superior image, even better than the XL-1s. And better color, sound control, and other such things. But can't go wring with the old canons. Good luck!
failsafe1
macrumors 6502a
I tried a TRV900 but it was horrible in low light. Nice picture when you had lights or daylight. I did not keep it. I went with a GL2 and rebate. I saw where the GL1 had about the same low light troubles. The TRV 900 is quite old also and mine had some quality issues. I found it on Ebay and the seller was quite understanding. If at all possible go with the GL2 or even look at the VX 2000 series. Where I work those are still used and are spoken of quite well. I have not tried any of them. I really like my GL2.
If only I could afford one of those...I cant afford the GL1 at the moment, but the GL2 is out of the question even for the future. It's diff when you get married.😉