Thanks GeorgeW. I'm looking for the original Elura, which didn't have a number after the Elura name. I prefer that model because I like its capabilities and I have a number of accessories that will only work with the Elura.

My intention was to continue using the Elura until there are more choices for prosumer compact HDV camcorders. Other than the discontinued Sony HDR-HC1, I haven't found any.

Belive me, I know your love of the original Elura as I am a PROUD owner. I also have a friend I might be able to convince in selling me his as he's not using it very much.

A regular associate of mine also owns one and now appreciates it even more when I gave him a quick tutorial on how to get more out of it. ( white balance, manual exposure, etc )

I got the docking bay for it and found two of the bigger batteries for it on Ebay for about 40 bucks. ( lucky )

I've compared the image alongside a GL-1 and a Pana DXV100 and the image really holds up. Not the best low light camera, but some of the shots I did outside last summer were stunning.

Good luck with the search and keep trying.

They do have excellent quality. I had a XL1 and sony VX1 plus this so this probably hasn't recorded more than 10-20 tapes including my testing with Vegas. ( I have a total 20 tapes (plus 20 dupes) that were done between 3 dv camcorders and this was used the least of the 3.) I sold the others and kept this through the years. We bought my son a newer model Elura a few years ago, and it wasn't nearly as good as the original one we have. They lowered the price through the years, but cheapened the line to be price competitive (me thinks) .

The one I have says

NTSC ELURA
Digital Video Camera on the side.

Above it :
Progressive Scan CCD

On top it says
Optical Image Stabilizer 48X Digital Zoom

The lens (on top) says
Canon Video Lens 12x Zoom 4.1=49.2mm 1:1:6 30.5

I have a large 2 hour battery that's pretty old. Probably lasts an hour . I have only used the camera a few times each of the past couple years.

email me at willisub@aol.com with an offer or at least a price range. Hadn't plan on selling this, but maybe this will jump start me into getting a HDV camera.

Thanks guys.

Stonefield, please send me a private message if your friend decides to sell his Elura. I also have additional batteries, docking station and microphone/flash mount. I use it with my Rode Videomic microphone and it works great. But I admit I'm a little embarrassed using that contraption. I'm not interested in paying much for this dinosaur but maybe his price would be right.

For now my Elura's zoom is working again. In case your Elura develops a tendency to zoom out by itself after you zoomed in, here's what I did. With the back open, I sprayed electronic contact cleaner behind the zoom switch area. I then I repeatedly worked the zoom to try and clean any potential debris off the contacts. The zoom's working good again but I can't say for sure if I fixed it or if it's just a coincidence. Only time will tell.

I would very much like to step up to the HD world with a new camera, but I'm not finding one yet that meets my prosumer needs. I'm hoping to stick it out with my Elura until the next generation of compact HD MiniDV cameras are available.

willisub, I'll email you for further discussion about your Elura.

David,

Ever had (or heard of) a problem with the volume/menu wheel ceasing to function on your Elura? Mine seems to have that problem now. Sometimes a sideways pressure on the wheel will help, sometimes not. I've recently upgraded to the Sony HC1 (very nice!), but wish to keep the Elura if I ever want to do a multi-camera event. I appreciate your ferver for the Elura - I'm no expert, but it's been a great camera for me! Well, except for the battery draining if you leave it connected.

Brian

Brian,

I haven't experienced the problem you described. By the way, it appears my contact cleaning solution for the zoom switch worked. The zoom continues to work as it should. Just maybe I'll be able to get another year's worth of use out of this ole' Elura until the next generation of HD consumer/prosumer cameras are available. My Elura's been through a lot over the years including getting wet about 2 years ago. I let it dry out a few days and it worked fine again. Amazing.

Dave

What did you do to clean the zoom?

The zoom function om my Canon XM2 is "sticky" and I thought of blowing clean air through it or some of that electronics spray stuff. In this case the switch mechanism is under the "hood" upper inside of tape cartridge insert hatch/door.

Bumped to catch David .. tia, Garo