The main thing that has infuriated me and others in the family who use the PD170 is the unit's on/off switch. Am I alone in my frustration? It's far too difficult position the thing quickly and precisely. Sounds like a silly complaint, I know, until you use it.

I've never had a problem. Your description of the issue isn't very complete. Do you mean you slip over into photo mode or what?

I guess what you mean is that it's rather an 'imprecise' switch Georg. It doesn't have a nice feel, action or sound, and it's as if it came from the Samsung bin. The answer? Use a LANC zoom controller. Using my Zoe attached to the top carry handle the on-off will be controlled by a gentle push of a tiny button, and the camera fires up and shuts down far more sweetly than by using the clanky mechanical switch Sony supply.

tom.