Sony DCR-HC38 Camcorder Reviewby Michael PerlmanPublished on Jun 25, 2007 8:11 AM 
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The Sony DCR-HC38 is a tiny step up from Sony’s actual entry-level, the HC28. The primary difference, a 40x optical zoom, may actually be the most compelling reason to buy it. The manufacturers know that people respond to big numbers, and 40x is about as big as we’ve seen. But there’s precious little else to this camcorder. The HC38 has virtually no manual controls and a poor menu system. But cheap and easy count for a lot, and Sony has those areas covered.
The Front (4.75)
There’s not much to the sideways dome shape of the DCR-HC38’s front side. Its 40x optical zoom lens has a focal length of 1.9mm-76mm and a filter diameter of 30mm. Beneath the lens is the oval NightShot Plus infrared light sensor, followed by the built-in stereo microphone located at the bottom. This is a relatively standard layout for a MiniDV camcorder. Some manufacturers like to mount the microphone on top, but based on the DCR-HC38’s compact size, it would make sense to keep it out of finger reach. To the left of the lens is the lens cover switch.
The Right Side (5.25)
This is as simple as it gets—a tape hatch and a hand strap. The DCR-HC38’s rounded hatch is complete with a ridge at the top for superior grip. Ergonomically, the DCR-HC38 feels great in the hand. The hatch release time is on the quicker side, and like all MiniDV camcorders, DON’T PUSH THE TAPE WHILE IT’S LOADING! Just a friendly little reminder to keep you from decimating the DCR-HC38’s internal mechanics. The hand strap is identical to most entry and mid-level Sonys—constructed of a thick, plastic material, yet surprisingly comfortable. You won’t find a hand strap like this on most Canons or Panasonics.
The Back (6.25)
The back is home to a cluster of ports lining the bottom—Firewire, DC in, and A/V out. These ports are covered by thin, rubberized plastic flaps that are exceedingly difficult to snap back into place under 10 seconds. They did pass the rigorous tug test, though. Just above sits the DCR-HC38’s NP-FH30 rechargeable battery pack, modestly jutting out of the back with enough clearance for the extendable viewfinder. The battery release button is stationed to the left of the battery. Now let’s talk about the viewfinder—it’s translucent. Who designs a translucent viewfinder!? Light will leak in and distort your viewing experience. It looks cool, Sony, but you get an F in functionality. The dioptric adjuster is located on the right side of the viewfinder shaft. To the right of the battery is the record start/stop button and circular mode dial located just above—both in conducive locations to the thumb and index finger.
The Left Side (4.25)
Now we’re talking—check out that flashy silver grain texture. This is by far the hottest MiniDV camcorder (now that the Canon Elura has been eliminated). Once you open the 4:3 aspect ratio 2.5” LCD screen, you’ll see a vertical row of buttons located in the LCD cavity: Easy, display/battery info, and back light. A USB terminal is positioned to the bottom right. The boxy “vintage” LCD screen is accompanied by a vertical strip of controls including zoom out, zoom in, and record start/stop. The DCR-HC38 is highly point-and-shooter oriented—the left side of a camcorder is usually a metropolis of dials, buttons, levers, and switches – in short, manual control options. The DCR-HC38 is all about the consumer. No options, no fuss, no muss.
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The left side exterior (left) and interior (right). |
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The Top (4.0)
Up top you’ll find the NightShot Plus light switch wedged between the finger grip ledge and the lens barrel. It’s a bit tricky to access, but it’ll give you that classic Sony NightShot action via just one flip of a switch. The tape hatch release switch is also available on the DCR-HC38’s roof, resting beneath the ring finger for quick ejection. You’ll find the same zoom lever on all of Sony’s entry and mid-level camcorders—smooth, responsive, and placed just below the index finger. And that just about wraps up the DCR-HC38’s sweet Sony simplification.
