Despite its low price, the Samsung SCM-51 camcorder has a surprisingly extensive set of features. It has 440x (22x optical) variable-speed digital power zoom, manual focus controls, 0.3 lux minimum visible illumination for excellent low-light sensitivity, and a built-in wide-angle lens, allowing an exceptionally wide view in tight areas (especially useful for indoor recordings). Macro mode allows extreme close-up recordings all the way down to 0.04 inches. A six-mode program auto exposure button adjusts camera settings for optimum results in a variety of situations: sports, portrait, spotlight, sand/snow, high speed shutter, and auto. The camera also has digital special effects, including mosaic, mirror, negative, emboss, cinema, and makeup.
For the highest-quality images, Samsung has employed digital signal processing, time base correction, and a flying erase head. The camera uses standard 8mm cassettes.
The 90-degree multiangle viewfinder rotates from horizontal to fully vertical, allowing low-angle shooting, and a diopter adjustment is provided for eyeglass wearers. When you're filming, a "record review" feature helps with continuity, showing you the last three seconds of the scene you just shot.
The SCM-51 also boasts a built-in preset titler, date/time recording, battery/zoom readouts in viewfinder, and an auto refresh function on the charger that helps maintain the battery in peak condition. It comes with a worldwide AC adapter (100 to 240 volts, 50/60 Hz) and an extended-life lithium-ion battery for three hours of standard recording.
With this camera, you won't get some higher-end features: the viewfinder is monochrome instead of color and there's no flip-out viewscreen. Audio is recorded in hi-fi mono (some camcorders record in stereo), and there's no image stabilization. If these aren't features you're likely to miss, or you're looking for a great starter camera, the SCM-51 is a real bargain.
Product Description:
Samsung's best 8mm camcorder - the SCM-51 offers an impressive array of features and conveniences in a compact, remarkably light and user-friendly design. Features include 22x optical zoom/440x digital zoom, black and white viewfinder, digital effects and excellent low-light capability. Built-in wide-angle lens allows an exceptionally wide view in tight areas, while the Wide Macro mode allows extreme close up recording. Digital image stabilization system eliminates unwanted picture shake while recording. With an excellent low-light capability, the SCM-51 can record nearly without light. Built-in features digitally process the video signal for a more stable picture. This ensures better playback for viewing or copying.