CamcorderInfo reviews the Sony DCR-HC38 camcorder, their second from the lowest tape-based camcorder. The reviewer found the quality and features to be on par with its low price. That is, they are passable but definitely not the best you can get.
The Sony DCR-HC38 ($330 MSRP) will satisfy the entry-level user. It feels good in the hand, looks cooler than the competition, and offers solid automatic controls. The 40x optical zoom is undoubtedly alluring, but remember that holding a steady shot past 10x is nearly impossible, even with the image stabilization.
