1.) Playback on the computer? It depends on the computer and the video editor you are planning to use. More detail, please.
Burned a DVD of the footage taken with this camera would it play on a standard American television set? North American televisions use 30 frames per second; PAL uses 25 fps. There are ways to convert, but none are "pretty". Where would the extra frames come from?
2.) The HDR-HC1 captures low-compression standard definition DV or high definition HDV format video to miniDV tape. With both a viewfinder and LCD panel, audio-in connection, manual audio gain control and a (shared) lens barrel ring that can be manual focus or manual zoom, it is closer to a "prosumer" than a consumer cam. Most high end consumer cams use flash memory or hard disc drive storage media that stores high compression AVCHD. The HC1 was the first of its kind - the HC3, HC5, HC7 and currently available HC9 followed. The HC1 has NightShot mode, Interval recording (for time lapse stills), a built-in flash, records stills to a Pro Duo flash memory cars, has a LANC port and a headphone port.
3.) Accessories: It came with a lens hood (Sony part 20596411) in the box. If it is gone, that can be replaced (from Sony) or you can use the lens hood made for the HVR-A1 (the HC1's "pro" sibling - Sony part 263297101). Since the HC1 has a 1/8" (3.5mm) stereo audio-in port, an XLR adapter (BeachTek, juicedLink among others) can be used - so basically any mic can me used. I use a NRG Research "shotgun" mic, Sennheiser wireless lavalieres and Shure handheld wired mics.
4.) I got mine in 2005. It has been a workhorse (along with my HDR-FX1. It has an odd LCD panel issue at the moment, but I am able to work around it.
As a miniDV tape camcorder, your computer needs a firewire port. Your video editor needs to be able to deal with HDV format video, too.
Hello everyone, I am a new intitate into the fantastic realm of camcorders and I have a few (probably basic questions). I have recently come across a used Sony HDR-HC1e for around $500. From what I can tell this is a great deal (and within my budget as a Student), but I have a few concerns.
1.) Most importantly, the caemra records in PAL format (hence the "e" on the end) and I live in America. Will playback onto my computer be an issue? Also, if I burned a DVD of the footage taken with this camera would it play on your standard American television set?
2.) I am aware that this camera is relatively old (new in 2005 I think)but is it still comparable to modern day camcorders?
3.) Are there many accessories for this camera in the realm of shotgun mics, hoods, etc.
4.) Has anyone had any prior experiences (good or bad) with this camera?
Thanks for reading and I look forward to your replies.

Chowhound
Comic Vine
GameFAQs
GameSpot
Giant Bomb
TechRepublic