Comments about Sony Handycam HDR-TG5V High Definition Digital Camcord:

This review is aimed at Mac users who have the latest version of Adobe Premiere Elements 9 formulated especially for the Mac platform. Connecting the camera to a Mac is simple: 1. Turn on your Mac. 2. Switch on the camcorder. 3. Connect to computer USB port -camera screen will read: USB CONNECT 4. IPhoto (if installed) will display the Photos from the camera. (Close or ignore).
5. Open Premiere Elements 9 - New Project (name it) - Get Media (FlipVideo/AVCHD) - Select SOURCE (Name)
- Add to Timeline, and begin editing! IMOVIE also works well but I prefer PREMIERE ELEMENTS 9, that is faster than its PC version.

Comments about Sony Handycam HDR-TG5V High Definition Digital Camcord:

I wanted a camcorder with a dual purpose: personal documentation and video taping mini documentaries. While the quality of this camcorder is good, I may have to upgrade to a more all around camcorder. For one, I need a remote control. And, a super sensitive sound pick up. Otherwise, the camera is very well constructed.

Comments about Sony Handycam HDR-TG5V High Definition Digital Camcord:

I have read mixed reviews about users having issues with MAC OS, but I haven't had any of those issues. I had NO problem getting it to work with Final Cut Express, Final Cut Pro, and iMovie. In Final Cut I just chose capture and poof there it was. I also see some complaining about the MPEG-2 Plugin for Quicktime needed for SD footage, but why would you shoot any SD footage with this HD camcorder when Memory is so cheap these days? If you want to shoot SD buy a SD camcorder!

Comments about Sony Handycam HDR-TG5V High Definition Digital Camcord:

I bought this about 3 months ago, but only now am I editing the video on a computer. The HDV looks great when the camcorder is connected directly to a HDTV. The problem lies in getting the video transferred onto a MAC. I am using a 1 year old intel MacBook Pro, which I was told was compatible. However the video, when viewed on the MAC is grainy, and very poor quality. I tried every permutation in iMovie and Final Cut Express to try to improve the quality, but despite the large file size, the picture quality is of a broadband streaming quality. I have bought many Sony products in the past, and have been very happy with them, but this is a real disappointment. The fact that there is zero support on either MAC or Sony websites doesn't help.

Comments about Sony Handycam HDR-TG5V High Definition Digital Camcord:

So far so good. I adore the size & HD quality. I just keep it in my purse. I'm a mom who wants to capture her kids without lugging around a large complicated camcorder. I bought an extra battery & memory stick just in case because recording in HD uses the battery & memory faster. I need to get used to recording & zooming using my thumb. I'm used to using my pointer finger to record & press buttons. So a couple of times you see my finger in the videos because its looking for something to do. =) But I don't see that being a problem once I get used to it: MAC users: You can't automatically view your videos. You need to buy ($20): QuickTime MPEG-2 Playback Component for Mac OS X just to view on your computer. But then there's no sound! You can download a FREE program from the apple website: MPEG Streamclip to get audio. Yes... There are extra steps for us MAC users & Sony support was little help. After 30 minutes with online Sony support their advice was talk to Apple support! Luckily I was able to find discussions on the apple website to explain what to do. Sony software is not compatible with MACs: I like the idea of geotagging but the software doesn't work for us MAC users: However, I do find the Smile Shutter extremely convenient. It takes still pictures while you're recording video! Overall I am happy with my purchase. I just wished it was a bit cheaper & was more MAC friendly.