Sony Handycam DCR-HC30

The DCR-HC30 camcorder had a recall that Sony still honored up to at least 2009 summer and may still. They had problems with the CCD device and the glue used to put it together melting. I sent the unit to Sony after calling their repair center and getting a RMA number. The sent my unit back (it's about 4-5 years old) repaired for free. I appreciate Sony for their help in the issue as it was a recurring defect.
This camcorder is one of the few that can be used to take old Hi8, VCR's, Turntables and any other medium that can be interfaced with the Sony Cord that can be used to input video and audio and send it directly to a Mac or PC via Firewire. Works like one of those interfaces you buy at the Apple Store. Just hook up your old source (RCA, S-VHS) to the side jacks on the Camcorder, then hook up the firewirecable to the computer and it works straight away. Nice if you have old tapes you want to remaster through Final Cut or iMovie. Make MP4's with Quick Time and music can be inputted to iTunes. Nice Solution as a part of a camcorder.

Hi. I would definately invest in a head-cleaner tape. You can get one from radioshack for about $12 bucks. All you do is pop it in and follow the directions. I think you get like 5 or 6 runs with it. Hope it turns out ok. btw - dcr-hc30 model really seems to blow. Wish I'd saved up for something better.