My old Hi8 camcorder, a Sony Handycam (with niteshot) still works, but any digital editing requires re-recording to a computer in realtime. While this works to get it in digital form, it’s time consuming and an overall hassle. The Handycam had some nice features that I modified heavily, but that’s another topic.

I needed a new camcorder for a specific purpose this year, so I started researching several different models. After narrowing it down to two different models, I started finding reliable suppliers.  This is a big task in itself. I’ve heard many horror stories of digital camera purchases and these stories are common in camcorder purchases too. Some places sell cheaper cameras, only for the buyer to find that it’s grey market and the warranty is no good in the US. Some sell at a low price, but then give a follow-up phone call “just to confirm the order”. What generally follows is a high-pressure accessory hard-sell and/or a bait and switch.

After looking at several competitive companies, I started asking some friends in the digital camera business about the different companies I was looking at. They gave me a really good reference for a company called Sixth Avenue Electronics. After finding some more glowing reviews online, I called Sixth Avenue (6ave.com) and placed my order. No hard-sells, no bait and switch, no hassles. The salesman (Roberto) was more than courteous, checked stock and entered my order. If all of their salespeople are this good, they’re a step ahead of many other online electronic retailers.

I selected second day air delivery when I placed my order about 2:30 one afternoon. Within minutes, I had received my order confirmation via email. In less than 24 hours, my order had shipped, and I received a tracking number for UPS. Since transit is over a weekend, delivery is scheduled for Tuesday, the 23rd of December. So far I am more than pleased with Sixth Avenue Electronics. After it arrives, I’ll write part 2 and let you know of the end result.

UPDATE: I had planned to do a two part review of Sixth Avenue Electronics, but basically all that’s let to say is the camcorder I ordered arrived as scheduled today! It appears in good shape and was well packaged. I’ll post a review of the camcorder in the next two weeks or so. Hats off to 6ave.com for a speedy delivery and an as-advertised product!