My turn to ask (NVDS11)

[This_Idiot]

Patrick, yeah I know - but it's more fun this way

Brian - If only. Don't forget the lack of employment status this end. Basically I have £600 to spend, and this "investment" is only possible since it is necessary in order for me to continue my journalism (in fact it's the "reward" from my last couple of articles that is going to fund it). With the ever-increasing number of DV capture devices and associated software, I can't afford to get left behind. I already have an ADS Pyro and VS4 awaiting the new device so that I can cut some more articles.

One day, when I get another "real" job I'll be able to push the boat out. 'Til then, "needs must where the devil drives".

C'est la vie

[Brian Ellis]

Now here's a thought. I phoned up the local Panasonic importer to ask whether the DV cams are 1394 in/out enabled or not. I was asked, what are mini-DV camcorders? After explanations, "we do not import any of these!". This inspired me to ditto for the Sony importer. "We haven't started to import any yet, but we are thinking of it, maybe for next year". Great to live on the cutting edge of technology. I have to buy all my DV tapes when travelling.

Chris: Take a cheap package tour to Singapore and buy the camera of your choice with 1394 in/out. It will cost you no more than buying the equivalent 1394 out only camera in the UK, overall, and you can have a few days of fun as well. But you have to haggle like mad, going from shop to shop, to get the best price. However, some of these dealers are really crooked, so beware of the stupendous bargain. You may find you get just the camera and no battery, power supply/charger, cables, instruction manual, tape, etc. Ask for the rest and they will charge you enough to bring the price up again. My last 3 cameras all came this way. However, take your old camera case with you. That way, you are much less likely to be stopped by HM Customs on returning: they can spot a brand new video case from 50 m.

Unfortunately, strange as it may seem, almost no S'pore dealer seems to advertise on the Internet, so it is difficult to check prices/specs beforehand.

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Brian (the terrible)