If you’re going to be buying a camcorder in the foreseeable future, then it is a good idea to note that the trend for the foreseeable future is hard disk space, and lots of it. Hard disk camcorders are faster than recorders that write to DVD, and arguably more stable.

The only problem, as with anything new, was cost, but as with things new, when demand goes up, the price comes down. So that’s why the Sony Handycam DCR-SR42E camcorder won’t be leaving you weeping at the till. The SR42E has a 30GB hard disk that allows for 20 hours of recording time, without the effort of ­having to buy and swap 20 hours worth of tape. It has a 40x optical zoom, which is a vast improvement over camcorders of even a few years ago. A very good feature of the new Sonys, is the 2.5 inch touch screen, making control of functions a much easier job. Get it at IT Junction on R3999. Call them on 012-661-3925 or visit www.itjretails.co.za.