[BruceG]

Anyone tell me if there any brands that inherently use top-loading (or indeed any other form of loading other than bottom) on their MiniDV camcorders?

The reason I ask is that I'm using my Sony PC120E more and more in the car on trackdays. It's mounted using the tripod screw on the base of the camera, but of course, every time you want to change the tape you've got to remove the camcorder - a right PITA!!

I'd read somewhere that some/most of the Panny camcorders do it, and DVD doesn't work in the car - too many vibrations.....

Thanks.

[MarkE19]

Many of the Sony DV cams are side loading, and AFAIK most if not all of the other makers also have side loading cams. In fact I would go as far as to say the majority of DV camcorders load at the side and therefore don't need to be removed from the tripod to change the tape.

Mark.