Sony DSR-PD170 Lens Fungus. Worth Keeping?
Hey guys, new to the sub so sorry if this sort of post isn’t welcome here.
I recently purchased an “as-is” Sony DSR-PD170 for around $400 USD online. Functionally, it operates perfectly and seems to have pretty low use-hours judging by the hours meter. It also came with the original wide-angle adapter and a couple of batteries. The viewfinder magnifier was broken at the latch (fixed with some gaffer’s tape, I can live with it).
The issue I’m concerned with is that there is some mild fungus growth in the lens (see pics). This was not disclosed in the online listing.
It doesn’t affect picture quality and is difficult to even see unless there is a direct light shined on it but it’s got me concerned. I do have the option to return it, but given the market on vintage camcorders right now, I’m unsure if it’s worth living with the issues this one has and possibly finding a service to deal with the fungus, considering the tape deck seems to still be pretty new or if i’m better off returning this one and starting the search over.
Is this a serious long-term issue I should be concerned about under normal storage conditions? Anyone else have experience with cleaning/replacing the lenses in these camcorders?
I reached out to my local camera repair shop and they refused to even work on it, so that’s my biggest reason for asking for help here. Any help/advice appreciated. Thanks!