My wife, a GP, needs a camcorder for filming consultations as part of her function as a trainer.

Experience with our old camcorder (10 years old), shows that we need:

*A reasonably wide angle lens (as the consultation room is small)
*Ability to have an external microphone
*Swivelling screen viewfinder, so she can check image from in front of camera
*Tripod mount, so camera can be mounted on a wall
*Mains power, so don't have to run off batteries when statically mounted.
*The ability to transfer to normal VHS tape (DVD is not accepted by the training colleges) - can do this by playback through our video recorder if necessary

I know its a "how long is a piece of string" question, but does anyone have any recommendations of what's currently available which would fit the above bill? We're looking to spend up to around £1000 if necessary.

Thanks,

James

check out Panasonic NV GS200/250. Does all of the above. Comes complete with all kit to plug into mains, etc etc. It has ability to play out a signal to tv or vcr. Mind you most £1000 mini dv cams should cover all all your isssues comfortably, just a case of checking for -mains adapter
-av in/out
-hot shoe for mic
- screen swivelability

[thebrummy_one]

Another factor you haven't touched on is light. You old cam would most likely have been an anologue recorder that is better at recording in low light conditions. Is your wife's consultation room very bright? If not, a digital cam may struggle to reproduce an acceptable PQ without extra lighting.
Brum