Hi, I'd like to get myself a DCR-TRV480 in as new or even new condition if possible.

I had a CCD-TR512E but it won't play back my tapes any more. I have been told that the playback heads rust. Even though it's had little use.

Anyhow, I have about 20 tapes I need to convert and I would really like to stay with the 8mm format.

I see a lot of these DCR-TRV480 's in the USA. Does anyone know if the USA versions can be switched from NTSC to PAL format?

Also does anyone know a place to buy these new with PAL compatibility?

(I'm located in Australia)
.-.-.

The DCR-TRV480 can not be switched from NTSC to PAL.



Rich

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Hi Rich, are you sure? Not even if a person was to flash the device with an Australian version of the firmware for example?

OH, if not. How common is this model in Australia? How easy is it to buy one?

.-.-.

1. Yes I am sure.

2. I have never heard of anybody being able to convert any camcorder to properly play back PAL on an NTSC camcorder by "flashing" the firmware.

3. I don't know how common the DCR-TRV480 is anywhere. It was the last model. I have the previous model DCR-TRV460 which I bought when it came out, they may have been 2004. It appears Sony quit making Digital8 camcorders.


This is what Sony says about the subject:

Quote:

Knowledge Article C213150 Can Sony® camcorders play PAL format tapes or be connected to a PAL format television or VCR? Sony® Digital8® camcorders can play tapes recorded in the PAL Digital8® format, but the video will only display in the LCD or viewfinder. The i.LINK® and line out jacks will not output the PAL signal. Analog PAL format tapes are not compatible. The only Sony® Mini Digital Video (DV) camcorder with PAL playback compatibility at this time is the DCR-TRV900. It will play tapes recorded in the PAL Digital8® format on the LCD only. Analog PAL format tapes are not compatible. Some Sony® 8mm and Hi8™ (analog) camcorders will play PAL format tapes and can be connected to a PAL format television or VCR. IMPORTANT: Consult the instruction manual of your camcorder for full compatibility information. Created: Wed Oct 30 10:35 2002 | Last Modified: Wed Feb 14 13:39 2007 http://www.iq.sony.com/srvs/autores...4.asp?id=213150

Quote:

Knowledge Article C211324 What is the difference between NTSC and PAL video formats? The DV standard for NTSC (National Television Standards Committee) is 720x480 video with 5:1 compression. The DV standard for PAL is 720x576 video with 5:1 compression. NOTES: Camcorders sold in the Unites States do not support the PAL format. Video conversion from NTSC to PAL is not supported. Created: Wed Oct 30 10:35 2002 | Last Modified: Wed Jan 25 15:41 2006 http://www.iq.sony.com/srvs/autores...4.asp?id=211324

Rich

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FireWire Survey

OK, Thanks. Thats all very good info.

So it looks like I need a Australian or UK Pal unit then for sure.

I really wish I had of been aware of these back when they were available new. I would have been more then happy to buy one. Such is life.

Oh well, I will continue to scan EBay etc for a second hand one I guess.

.-.-.