Wow. I forget that I actually have an old Sony CCDTRV318 Hi8 Camcorder with 2.5" LCD video Hi8, 1/6-inch CCD with 320,000 gross pixels 20X optical zoom 560x digital zoom f1.6-f2.4 Focal distance: 2.5-50mm, someone gave me, with no adapter or anything, so I do not know if it even works.
I wonder how this compares with my candidates? The charger and vid cable would be about 20.00, plus Sony Hi8 HMP & Metal P Camcorder 8mm New Blank Cassette Tape 120 Min - Lot of 2 for 19.95. However, I do not even know if it works or if the battery would charge after so long. Don't want to spend money if it may not work.
With the ease of use, improved picture quality, and relatively low price of today’s cameras I wouldn’t even bother trying to rehabilitate something from any more than a few years ago - would probably cost much more than it was worth......
You’d be surprised at how many older camcorders showup at your local Goodwill store!