Hi everyone,

I'm in the process of choosing a new camcorder and two of the top runners on my list are the Sony DCR-HC45E and JVC GR-D760EK.

These two camcorders both use mini DV tapes but a friend of mine has told me stories about tape-based camcorders suffering from condensation problems which can either stop them working or cause tape jams etc.

Does anyone have experience of this or is he just scaremongering?

Thanks in advance,
Tony.

If your mate suggests a DVD or hard-drive based camcorder as an alternative, tell him he's a prize chump!

Tape based camera's can indeed suffer from condensation problems. Usually this happens when a camera is moved from a cold atmosphere into a warm one, or if it is used in very humid conditions. The problem is rare, and even then, only temporary. Most cameras have a condensation detection sensor built in which will warn you to wait until things have normalised.

miniDV-based cameras are the easiest format from which to edit your footage, and if editing is what interests you, then go with miniDV.