I purchased this camera close to 2 years ago. I thought I was going to love it. It was easy to use and had numerous special effects. That was before the first breakdown, less than 3 months after purchase. Since then , it has been in and out of the shop for a total of 4 times. Under the Sharp warranty, they kept the camcorder an average of 2 months each time. I have missed having many family events put on tape because of this camera. My advice, DON"T BUY IT. If you do, however, an extended warranty is a neccesity with this camera.