[jtorry]

We need to get a camcorder for making videos at trade shows and also taking footage from a PSP and Nintendo DS. We have a mini DV digi cam at the moment but it lacks an external mic in and really struggles in low/indoor lighting (image very grainy).

Needs
Good for indoor environments
Good at close up recordings (handheld console)
external mic input
under £400

We are not bothered about editing functions as we can do all that once we get the footage on the PC.

[MarkE19]

TBH no consumer digital camcorders are going to be very good in low light conditions, especially at the lower end of the price ranges!
You need to look for a camcorder with a single CCD (lower PQ, but slightly better in low light), bigger CCD (most Panasonics I believe), and a bigger lens (to let more light in).

What DV cam do you already have? Somebody who has used/knows that cam may be able to advise if there are any £400 cams that will better it in low light, or suggest the sort of budget you are looking at for a cam that will.

Mark.