Excellent video quality...Good sound quality...Option to record in 24 progressive frames per second to create a film-like effect....Menus and backup can be a drag...Video-editing software is not included....Operating a tape-based camcorder like the HV30 is a bit of a drag?it's sort of like using a VCR instead of a DVD player...Even so, if you're into tape recording, the HV30 is...

Superb stills and video > Tried and tested format > Better image quality than HDD models > Faster import than HDD models...Cumbersome to use > Last year's HV20 is essentially identical...Canon HV30 user review from TechRadar UK......

Shoots stellar high-definition video with vividly accurate colors, smooth motion; includes microphone jack and accessory shoe; user friendly....Awkward design makes for clumsy handling; still images are slightly noisy....The HV30 proves you can still have a sophisticated product, even if it's using older technology...The HV30’s four-directional joystick is sturdy and sensitive,...

"The Bottom Line For the under $800 it costs, its worth it if you're filming your vacations, holidays, birthdays and whatnot..."

"If you wish you could afford the Canon XH A1 or better and want nearly as good a picture, this is the camera for you..."

"The bottom, bottom line is Sony had lost its way and CANON's HV30 is the current champ in the hand-held HDV camcorder race..."

"The sound is good but I expexted a little better quality for an HD recording..."

"Comfortable to Operate, Great Picture Quality, Simple Controls Poor Battery Life Picture quality is nearly as good as my 3ccd Canon GL2's..."

"Sound quality is good with minimal camera motor noise..."

"I gave this camera a good review based on image quality..."

"Did this same test with a solid state unit and reached the same conclusion! Seems the tape based unit has better quality HD picutre..."

"This is a good camera to get started in video with, then with time you can move up to the Canon XH A1..."