The CCD-TRV338 is the latest Hi8 Handycam camcorder from Sony. Like its lower-price cousin the CCD-TRV138, this model features a 1/6-inch CCD imaging device that delivers 200,000 effective pixels.

However, the CCD-TRV338 also includes Sony's SteadyShot digital picture stabilization feature, an important addition considering the 20X optical and huge 990X digital zoom capability. Unless a tripod is regularly used, a stabilization system is a must for higher-zoom shooting.

The CCD-TRV338 offers six program auto exposure (AE) modes including portrait, sports, landscape, and beach and ski. Sony's NightShot Plus function allows shooting to continue in low-light conditions, though the image quality suffers as the amount of light decreases. The CCD-TRV338 also provides manual focus control and an array of picture effects, titles and faders.

This model sports a 2-1/2-inch LCD screen that rotates 270 degrees to make framing shots as straightforward as possible. It also displays the amount of recording time left in the camera's InfoLithium battery.

The Sony CCD-TRV338 is a solid Hi8 camcorder, ideal for the budget consumer and anyone who wants to be able to access an existing library of Hi8 home movies.

Warranty
90 days labor, 1 year parts