So many questions, where do I start. j/k
In your post you said that you wanted to edit out some deat time from the game. With a DVD camcorder like the dcr-dvd505 editing will be very difficult. Usually people who want to edit go for the MiniDV format. None of the dvd camcorders that I know have a firewire connection. Firewire allows you to capture the video without any more compression so it's a higher quality. All miniDV ones have it so editing is easier with them.
The DVD-R discs can't be changed once they are recorded. You can not edit the DVD. I think the DVD-RW and DVD+RW can be "edited" only through the camcorder but it has to be done before you finalize the disc.(get a second opinion) However this is not true editing. The camcorder records the video in small clips, the only thing you can do is delete some of the clips your don't want. You can't delete half of a 3 min clip and keep the other half.
The DCR-DVD505 is good in low ligh. The sony dcr-hc96 is the sony top of the line MiniDV camcorder and that is just as good in low light too. Retail price for it is 799USD. Also you don't have to use a computer to make a DVD from the HC96. Do you have a DVD recorder that you hook up with your TV? If it has a firewire input you can connect it to the firewire on the HC96 and make a DVD disc.
In my opinion get a miniDV camcorder, but retail price for the DCR-DVD505 is 1099USD so you did get a good deal on it.
With a 15-day return policy, I have to make sure that the camcorder is the one I'll stick with. With a coupon, I was able to get it for $899--so the price was good.
I have a daughter that plays competitive volleyball, and is getting a ton of requests from university coaches for ''play tape''. I will be filming in somewhat low-light conditions (your average HS gym), vball matches that are approx. 60 minutes long, and will be editing out dead-time.
My concerns are this:
- I just watched the CNET review video and it says there is no firewire outlet (?), should this be a problem?
- Do I need to purchase additional software, or should the enclosed Sony software be good enough for my limited needs?
- I bought this camcorder because it appeared to do well in mediocre light, with a larger lens. Is there another camcorder in the $1K price range that will film better?
- I am confused about the DVDs. I bought the Sony 3-pack of DVD-R that are recordable on both sides--total of 60 min. each. Should I have gone with DVD-RW or DVD+RW? What is the difference?
- I will often be filming from a distance- like at the top of the stands in a HS gym, with a tripod. Will this be of suitable quality, so that a recruiter can see my daughter's uniform number, and give her a scholarship?
Ahhh, the woes of the middle class. Help!

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