[taras]

Currently I have an old Canon MVX3i, super quality but a bit large. I also have a JVC GZ-MG21EK, quality not special but small and easy to carry. I must admit the HDD models do attract me. I have tried the GZ-MG575 and was not impressed with the PQ. I have been looking at the Sony range and whilst the AVCHD models are attractive I do not have a Blue Ray player or a HD TV. Did I see somewhere that with the AVCH models you could record in 'low' def or would you suggest something like the Sony DCR-SR190E or the 290. for good PQ and easy to carry.

Please advise
Mike

[senu]

If you can afford them , the AVCHD models can record Standard ( not low)
Def probably as well as the Non- hidef Models

Although this applies more to HDV vs DV it probably still applies .

1)It wont be too long before you get an HDTV.. there arent many which are not HDTV these days. The HD footage does look special on these Displays

2)You can record AVCHD and still output to SD mpeg2 after editng, the caveat being that the AVCDH editng software is all new and the PCs needed will need to have some "oomph". With HDV things are easier in that you can output HDV directly as SD DV

Otherwise, Just buy a non Hi def model and enjoy it for a few years, by which time the AVCHD models will possibly be less costly and the Hardware and software would be a lot more commonplace

[redsox_mark]

With a AVCHD cam (e.g. Sony SR1) yes you have a choice, you can record in SD (MPEG2, same as other SD HDD cams), or HD (AVCHD).

Though I would suggest to record in AVCHD even if you don't have other HD kit, and do the conversion to SD in software when editing. That way you still have high def "masters" you could reissue later (eventually you'll have other HD kit).

AVCHD cams tend to have not quite as good picture quality as HDV (tape) models, but are still very good, and worth it over SD (if you have HD kit to play it on).

Stictly for SD, the SR190/290 will be as good as say the SR1. But the SR1 is more future proof.

[taras]

Hi Senu & Mark, thanks very much for your 'words of wisdom'. In the light of what you say I think it would be better to go for SR1, at least then I am 'future proof'

Thanks
Mike