[banjo21]

I have just sold a JVC MG77 which I only purchased (in haste without homework) last year. It was very handy but the low light performance and general PQ just wasn't up to scratch - anything less than full sunlight was a disappointment.

With holidays, children and indoor/evening parties filling up the year at my ripe old age I would like something that
a) very easily catches all of the above
b) is easy to edit by someone who enjoys the editing process but probably only wants to spend 10 hours to get 1 hour of footage in shape
c) definitely has far superior evening, e.g. pub or function room, performance than the JVC
d) gives a good all round PQ.
e) takes a decent photo in the above situations also.

Having done some reading I think I'd be happy with an SD, minDV cam. My budget isn't too contrained - anything up to £500 is reasonable.
I was thinking the Sony DC96 or the Pan GS300 - I guess I like the easy of use and low light capabilities of the Sony but the reviews suggest the Panny is slightly better overall PQ. I think ease and low light are two key factors for me. Anyone care to suggest others or help me decide between the two?

Many thanks.

[redsox_mark]

I would go for the Panasonic GS300, for one main reason: it has a standard accessory shoe, where you can add a video light.

Whilst both the GS300 and HC96 will produce better video than the MG77 (in good and low light), there is no camcorder that I've ever seen which looks great in low light. Low light will always look vastly inferior to good light. If you are doing a lot of indoor shooting, the best thing is to add a video light.

The HC96 has the Sony AIS shoe, which limits you to only Sony lights. with a standard show you can choose from a large variety of lights.

[banjo21]

Thanks for the info. I see you have also recommended the Canon MVX460 at around the same price range. Is there much between these three models in easy of use and PQ that you or others know if?

[redsox_mark]

MVX460 is closer to £300, GS300/HC96 more like £400 or more. I think the MVX460 is the best cam you can get for £300 ish, and GS300/HC96 are the best for £400 ish. GS300 is probably the best of the bunch, but the differences aren't huge.