I have compiled a quick list of DV camcorders that have “pass through” capabilities. It is not a complete list since I did not include all brands or discontinued models. I will keep adding to this list and start to include older models. If you have any input send me an e-mail

What I found is that DV pass-thru is available on most DV cameras except for the lowest priced models. Pass through does not seem to be as common on DVD camcorders. I suppose it doesn’t make sense to have pass through on a DVD camera but it would be nice to have analog inputs to record to the DVD.

As I mentioned in the capturing section one of the best ways to convert analog sources like VHS and 8mm is to use the pass through feature of a DV camera. When I was starting out I looked at a few different hardware solutions to convert analog sources to DV. I was able to buy a Canon ZR60 camcorder to do the conversions. The fact that I also got a nifty little camcorder out of the deal was a bonus.

You may be able to score a good deal on Ebay for an older Canon or Sony. Just make sure you check the manuals to make sure the camera has pass through capabilities. Pass-through is not always listed as a feature and you may need to dig through a manual at the manufacturers site.

Canon
ZR60
ZR100
ZR200
ZR300
ZR400
Elura 80
Elura 85
Elura 90
Optura S1
Optura 50
Optura 60
Optura 400
Optura 500
Optura 600
No pass through on the DC10 or DC20

Sony
DCR-HC42
DCR-HC32
DCR-PC55
DCR-HC90
DCR-PC1000 (3cc)
DCR-HC21-NO analog
DCR-TRV480
DCR-TRV460

JVC
GRD72US
GR-D73 and GR-D93
GR-DF430US
GR-DF450US
GR-DF550US
GR-DZ7US has analog input but not sure about pass-thru
GR-X5US has analog input but not sure about pass-thru

Panasonic
PV-GS120
PV-GS150
PV-GS250
PV-GS400
PV-DV852

Samsung None