noise query from prospective buyer

[moira]

The HV20 isn't in the country yet and I'm tossing up between that and the HC7. So far I'm leaning towards canon but the individual reports of motor noise are bothering me. I envisage myself pointing and pressing buttons, the thought of having to position or even tote around external mics isn't something I want to have to do. What I want to know is do all HV20s have a whining noise or is it just the unlucky few ? I do realise inbuilt mics all make a noise but the descriptions of HV20s sounds almost unbearable. My trip isn't till September so Ive time to sort myself out.... I really appreciate the knowledge and tips I'm picking up here.
Cheers
Moira

[Mal]

I think you are seeing more HV20 reports of "motor noise" because it happens to be bought a lot by persons who are coming from HIGHER END GEAR, not as would be the case with other cameras where persons buying the latest SONY consumer HDV cam might be coming from low end VHS or lower end MiniDV cameras, or whatever.
So, for a pro who has a HVX200 and is used to using external mics that cost $1200.00 USD, SURE the HV20 is somewhat noisy; but they all have this problem, all small cams do. It's the nature of the beast.
I actually thought the HV20 sounds "okay", but best quality audio IS SIMPLY ALWAYS recorded with EXTERNAL mics, as close to possible to the audio source, no matter what cam!.

[moira]

thats reassuring actually and to be honest I haven't heard any irritating noise when Ive played clips. When it was called a whine I had visions of tinnitus revisited:eek: This will be my first camcorder other than borrowing the school's video camera back in 1984. Who knows..it may be a calling and I end up with a rig I saw on another forum,bigger than the camera itself.....but the pics really were breathtaking so I'm not ruling anything out.
I see where youre coming from . Thanks for the reply Mal, much appreciated
Moira