Sony DCR-HC38 Camcorder Review at Camcorder Info
Camcorder Info have published a review of the Sony DCR-HC38 camcorder. 'The Sony DCR-HC38 is a tiny step up from Sony’s actual entry-level, the HC28. The primary difference, a 40x optical zoom, may actually be the most compelling reason to buy it. The manufacturers know that people respond to big numbers, and 40x is about as big as we’ve seen. But there’s precious little else to this camcorder. The HC38 has virtually no manual controls and a poor menu system. But cheap and easy count for a lot, and Sony has those areas covered. There’s not much to the sideways dome shape of the DCR-HC38’s front side. Its 40x optical zoom lens has a focal length of 1.9mm-76mm and a filter diameter of 30mm. Beneath the lens is the oval NightShot Plus infrared light sensor, followed by the built-in stereo microphone located at the bottom. This is a relatively standard layout for a MiniDV camcorder. Some manufacturers like to mount the microphone on top, but based on the DCR-HC38’s compact size, it would make sense to keep it out of finger reach. To the left of the lens is the lens cover switch.'