Sony Camcorders

[bfisher]

This specifically is a question about Mini-DV camcorders, and Sony HC7 in particular.

I've been having a problem with the "cage" where the tape is installed. You know, that little contraption that raises up and pops open when you want to install or unload a tape? Well, mine won't latch shut. I had it looked at a few months ago and it's going back tomorrow.

I just wanted to see if anybody here has had a problem with theirs and what repair or whatever might have been done.

I gotta have this thing ready by Jan 10 for a trip to St. Lucia.Push comes to shove I'm just going to buy a refurb from Sony.

 

[drbill]

I had TONS of problems with my HC-7 but that hasn't been one of them.

Where is Sony selling their refurbs?

 

[diversteve]

Sony Outlet | Camcorders Outlet

 

[h2ovideo]

I have had issues with the tape mechanism, not with this model of Sony but another one. . . I find that if I try to manipulate this too quickly I have issues. The tray moves S L O W L Y. . . . . . if I allow it to move on it's own time, it works pretty well.

I have never bought a refurbished camera, although I have purchased a used on on ebay.

 

[drbill]

I have had what may be a similar problem with my TRV-17. I get an error message when it happens. All I do is shut it off, disconnect it from the charger (if it's on), remove the battery, wait a few seconds and then replace the battery. The TRV-17 usually works fine after that. I, too, think it may come from my not being patient enough to let the tape carriage seat itself on its own schedule.

 

[bfisher]

drbill, I too got instructions about removig the battery for a short time then reinstalling it. This was back in September. It has acted up a few times since and this method worked up until a couple days ago.

Well, it's back in the shop right now. I did take notice that the cassette compartment (cage) was crooked this time. The front didn't come up all the way. Somehow I got a feeling this isn't good. I think I just might get me a refurb for time being. Then I'll have something for my trip next week and have a spare for the day they quit making it. Afterall, they're still cheaper than a new housing for a different camcorder.