Looking for a camcorder, I have no idea which one

RoscoLabri · 16-02-2007, 5:02 PM

Hello all,

I've been thinking about getting a camcorder for some time now but couldn't really see myself using it all that much. However, I'm now planning to venture out to the great outdoors and would love to record any wonderful sights I come across.

As I said in the title, I know absolutely nothing about camcorders apart from a vague idea as to types, ie mini DV, HDD & DVD.

Quick check list to help you guys give me an idea as to what I should be looking at...

Battery needs to be fairly good.

I don't want to run out of space whilst recording (which is why I'm going to assume Mini DV tape form would be best, although I'm not limiting myself to this type if you guys suggest others).

As I'm going to be recording scenic places, I'd like the quality of the video to be fairly decent.

An option to take photos, I know they won't be digital camera quality, but I'd still like them to be viewable.

Eventually I'll attempt to transfer them to PC, to either edit or backup if need be.

I've heard that some built-in microphones record the noise of the camcorder, so its just audible in playback. Not to bothered about this (although I wouldn't mind recording some guitar playing once in a while).

Thats all I can think of so far.

Ideally, for the price range I'm looking at around £200 - £400

(I realise that maybe I can't get what I want for that price, so if that is the case, can you advise me otherwise?)

Thanks, look forward to any information

redsox_mark · 17-02-2007, 8:30 PM

In that price range I would go for Mini DV. You get the best quality for the money. It is also a good format for editing. At the low end of your price range I like the budget Canon models. Note Canon (and most manufactuers) have new models coming out soon... but of the current models the MV930 will take stills, good quality video, and costs just over £200.

Moving to approx £300 is the Canon MVX460 (if you can find one, they are discontinued and hard to find), or the Panasonic GS180. Similar features, but a bit better quality.

Or closer to £400, the Panasonic GS300.
http://www.pricerunner.co.uk/sound-a.../555116/prices