Grandfather needs Camcorder for Son - which one?

[Sluggster]

Well, i just got the call. My son is about to be a dad. I'd like to get a camcorder for him to record the early years.

I've never owned one and never felt the need to get one before so i know nothing about them. Can someone help with advice please.

He has a good PC but an ordinary (not flat screen) Panasonic 28 inch TV.

I am willing to spend £250 - £500.
Should I get SD or HD. Will HD work on his TV?
It would be good to get stills as well as video.
As a child will be involved something robust would be ideal.
Solid state recording by memory card or HD would seem the best way forward.
The Sanyo Xacti VPC-HD2 looks a good bet at £500. But the reviews say the picture is so so. Anyone got experience of this model?
Which high street outlet is best for these things?

Our new son is a Jones and my wife and I want to call him Indy. daughter in law does not seem to agree

Thanks for your input.

[redsox_mark]

An ordinary TV won't be able to play the HD signal, though with some models you can shoot HD and have the camcorder downconvert (HDV tape models do this, not sure about the Sanyo).

Others can comment on the Sanyo (there is a current thread about it). With your budget, as much as I like HD, you are probably best off with SD. One suggestion is the Sony SR190; HDD cam, available online for around £450.

In terms of high street outlets, probably Jessops is best. But you'll most likely find it cheaper online. Sometimes the shops will price match.