My daughter and I both purchased Panasonic NV-GS11 DV cameras, and we have both had trouble with them. Originally they were fine, but both needed new transport mechanisms or repairs to same after about 12 months. My camera has travelled a lot with me. After a trip to the Northern Territory and North West of Western Australia, needed to be repaired. After the mechanism fixes, it was used for a 2 week trip in the Australian outback. I have successfully transferred the images to my computer. However, If I now pick up previous tapes, the camera won't read them, and indicates it needs cleaning, press reset etc. I am reluctant to overuse the head cleaner after reading how they can damage the heads if used excessively. Of course you can't get in with a swab to wet clean the heads if you don't know what you are doing.
My daughter uses her camera in the city to film her baby, who is now 2 years old. The `camera has been used fairly extensively, but hasn't been in dusty areas like mine has. My question is, have we got a dud, or were the VHS-c cameras just a hell of a lot more reliable, because the mechanisms weren't miniaturised. Should these DV cameras be taken to repair shops for cleaning on a regular basis, or do we accept that for the cost involved, it is cheaper to chuck them and buy another camera - which brings up another question, do I go back to the trusty old VHS-c which seems to go forever, despite the lack in quality. I am seriously considering upgrading to a 3ccd model, but the DV reliability factor has me worried. Also what is a reliable brand to go for. I have had panasonic always, but these recent experiences have put me off that brand.
I thank you for you responses