Sony Professional DSR-PD170 3 CCD MiniDV Camcorder with 12x Optical Zoom (Discontinued by Manufacturer)

Used for filming bmx and skateboarding, if you want that crispy, golden vx quality, but with a lcd screen and no mic sag, look no further!

I bought this as a companion to my Sony DSR 200A almost two years ago. Its been a great addtion for two-camera shoots when color temperatures need to match. Both cameras shoot 16:9 (but not HD), which clients have asked for. Its great for interviews, spontaneous action, b-roll and so much more. Its low-light capabilities have produced some amazing shots to many a client's delight ("how'd you do that??").The one drawback is that it is not a grab-and-shoot camera. Its automatic features don't respond well and you'll end up with unusable images, especially in bright sunlight. Also its wide angle lens seems to have some focus issues. I tend to not use it as much as I'd like, especially for "live" situations, I don't want to risk losing a shot because I couldn't focus. If you have time to set up the camera properly, you'll get great footage.Otherwise, its a very handy and smaller version of the DSR 200A, down to the XLR inputs, attenuators and variety of controls. It records on the small DVCAM tapes or on Mini-DV which for some projects, I'll use the less expensive Mini-DVs because of price. I haven't been able to tell the difference.This has been my go-to camera since I bought it.

Many concerns about purchasing used electronic item such as camera sight unseen. Spoke to seller who answered all my questions & felt as confident as I could be in the situation. Was not dissapointed. Camera works fine, using it everyday.

Came as promised. Very good condition and good value.

didn't last a year

It's good.

oke

I've used this camera on several professional video shoots now, including talking heads, outdoors and an indoor music video. The low light capability of this camera is nothing short of stunning, with clear, crisp images available even when using only available tungsten room lights. We shot a girl playing the piano with candles in the background and only the piano lamp and it looked great. The PD170 is very easy to use for the beginner and a breeze to tweak on the fly. It has solid, nicely positioned controls (for full auto and full manual configurations), pro XLR audio/mic inputs and easily accessible miniDV cassette mechanism that lets you change tapes while the camera is on the tripod. Its DVCam recording mode runs the DV tape at a faster rate, giving you about 43 minutes of recording on an hour miniDV tape. The higher recording speed is not mandatory, but does improve quality when you choose to use it. Autofocus is crystal clear, but easily manipulated manually with a great focus ring. This camera has lots of bells and whistles, including the ability to monitor both channels' recording levels onscreen, while taping. I've heard the networks' embedded reporters in Iraq are using PD170's and I believe it. The quality of the images captured by this camera is nothing short of professional. The heft and feel of the PD170 is just right. it's got a nice, built-in lens cover that's actuated by a solid feeling lever on the side of the lens housing. It also features two built in neutral density filters that can be flipped into position with another lever. The list of features and thoughtful design elements goes on and on. Obviously, I'm crazy about this DVCam and literally don't have a single complaint to share. If you're looking for a rock solid, professional grade camcorder in the $3000 range, look no further. Read up on it and the competition. Then buy this gem and prepare to be bowled over by its performance, pictures and exceptional design.