Is it supposed to be this loud.

[Olphus]

The tape deck makes a constant buzzing sound...is this normal:hv20-smilie51:

[cydiamante]

Yes unfortunately it is normal, the problem though is that it gets recorded on tape as well, wich is my only disappointment with this fantastic camera :(

Apparently though, it is louder on some more than others.

[Olphus]

Well, that doesn't make any sense for a $1000+ camera.
I have seen people mount semi-professional mics on the HV20 - so what's the point if you are going to have a constant mechanical noise in the background.
I'm really disappointed with this issue.

[sp8ce07]

the point of a shotgun mic is to

A. have it shotgun - point in the direction you want and not always pick up external noises, alla the tape deck.
B. move away from the chamber of the tape that is buzzing

[Olphus]

Ah yes, but this is supposed to be a handheld camera. For many occations you can't walk with a mic in one hand and a cam on the other, it's an inconvenience.

[Critters]

Manual mode lets you reduce the mic level so it does not pick up the tape noise, I have found it greatly reduces the problem.

[24Peter]

Ah yes, but this is supposed to be a handheld camera. For many occations you can't walk with a mic in one hand and a cam on the other, it's an inconvenience.

I alway use an external mic with mine (though admittedly it's mounted on camera). But alas, you have discovered that even for $800, this camera is not perfect. What are we all to do? :hv20-smilie119: