In my experience, I've found Sony cameras are more expensive but better
built than equivilently equipped Panasonic cameras. If you have a good Sony
tech close by, it might be a better choice for support and service. Sounds
like you'll probably need one with students ) But the two models you are
comparing are quite different from one another. The TRV38 is a compact and
lightweight handheld consumer model whereas The DVC7 is a larger and heavier
(and about 40% more expensive) prosumer camera designed primarily for off
the shoulder ENG-style shooting. Depending on what you're teaching your
students, this might be an issue of some importance.

"Pat" <mastersp@vaniercollege.qc.ca> wrote in message
news:b9d49b2f.0307041302.5f9a26f3@posting.google.c om...

Thanks John
You are correct that they are very different cameras. I was thinking
that the extras expense (about $400 per unit) would pay off with less
down time and repairs. Student seem to use a shoulder balanced,
substantial camera in a more respectful way. They are being groomed
for university programs and for thoughtful, subtlely skillful
projects.
Pat

"jdcarswell" <johnhyphencarswell@shaw.ca> wrote in message news:<hIqNa.385363$Vi5.9885208@news1.calgary.shaw. ca>...

I think you're right - in theory, the DVC7 should be a more robust camera.
I've always preferred shoulder mount cameras for stability and currently use
a Panasonic AJ-D700 - about 15 lbs of stability ) Check around your area
and find out what Panasonic users have to say about the local Panasonic rep
and tech support. A good technician can make all the difference. Some of
them work for Panasonic and some of them work for Sony.

"Pat" <mastersp@vaniercollege.qc.ca> wrote in message
news:b9d49b2f.0307050911.3195bfa5@posting.google.c om...