[mattuk72]

The training company I work for has decided to buy a camcorder to record discussions our learners have on various topics. We need to record these so they can be submitted as evidence of achievement to awarding bodies. We can submit this evidence on tape or disc.

The budget is no more than £200 and we need something simple to use that works well indoors. We don't have access to a powerful computer suitable for video editing so I guess we're looking for something that records onto miniDV tape and then if need be we could connect the camcorder to a DVD recorder for any simple editing requirements/disc burning.

Having had a quick look online, it looks like the Panasonic NV-GS560 would fit the bill nicely and Amazon have it for about 150 quid but is there anything else that we should consider?

Complete n00b with camcorders so any help gratefully received.

Matt

[C.Wolf]

I would look for a budget sony. A while ago I looked at camcorders around this budget and the sony was streets ahead in picture quality. As I said this was a while ago, but go to comet and compare for yourself as I did.

[senu]

I would suggest your company ups its budget to nearer £4-500. especially If this is meant to be a one off purchase..You will have a wider choice of better camcorders
There is nothing wrong with spending less if you can get a bargain but even if the videos are destined for PC viewing.. The extra money gets you a sharper , more colourful image , better audio and , better low light performance.
They are also likelier to have microphone -In jacks for use of external microphone
If the recording are going to awarding bodies , giving grainy video ( Ie "youve been framed" ) with washed out or suspect colour will not do you any favours
PS:If you wont be doing it often, you can hire a decent camcorder ( Say like the CanonXM2 or Sony VX2100) for a short time ( maybe a day or few hrs)
Camulet hires out be I have no idea of rates

[redsox_mark]

For your task the audio seems very important, so I agree a model which can take an external mic is preferable.

If you can't up your budget, the Canon MD101 is good value, and has a mic input. As long as the room is well lit it will perform well.

[mattuk72]

Thanks to everyone who replied to my first post.

The good news is that I've Just heard from the powers that be that the budget has now been upped to £400. Does anyone have any recommendations at this price-point?

Thanks

Matt

[redsox_mark]

Consider the Panasonic GS320 (though it doesn't have an external mic input)... or the GS230 (which does have external mic input and is cheaper, but not as good video quality).