Though full-size VHS camcorders are becoming less and less common, somepeople still prefer them to newer, smaller models. Despite their larger size,standard VHS camcorders offer two advantages over VHS-C and 8mm cameras. First,the tapes can immediately be played through a VCR, rather than using an adapteror requiring the camera to be connected to the television. Second, the shoulder- mounted shooting style necessitated by the camera's size makes it much easier toshoot smooth, steady videos.

The VM7500LA features a 16x optical zoom, as wellas a 72x digital zoom, and the ability to take wide-angle shots. The camcordercan also shoot in as little illumination as 0.3 lux. Five digital fades and fivedigital effects give you the opportunity to add a touch of professionalism toyour footage. To compose and review shots, users have two options: a black-and- white optical viewfinder and a 3-inch swivel-mounted color LCD. A built-inplayback speaker lets you hear the footage you've just shot. A manual charactertitler also lets you label the footage you're shooting.

To make sure yourshooting experience is as easy as possible, the VM7500LA automatically setsshutter speed, iris, white balance, focus, and backlight compensation. It willeven automatic select macro mode when appropriate. The VM7500LA comes equippedwith a rechargeable battery that is capable of shooting for 1.3 hourscontinuously (according to Hitachi) and an AC adapter/charger.