[Ardmanz]

Hey guys,

I'm after a camcorder and I'm on a real tight budget. I'm not too fussed about the format (nothing ealier than mini dv though) but there a a few things I require although I realise on the budget it may be difficult.

Preferably a firewire output (if not some sort of output so I can put the video directly on my PC).
Able to record to a fairly decent ability in poor lighting, especially music venues.
Able to record really loud sounds without distorting (see above).
A fairly long battery life.

Really I'm just after the best quality camera for the price.

I previously had a JVC GR-DVL160EK which I was fairly happy with. It had a firewire output and was capable of recording loud sounds to a fairly high quality. The only problem I found with it was that the picture quality in poor light was pretty terrible (way too red). Other than that I thought it was pretty good. Anyway, thats completely died now so I need a replacement.

I realise I'm asking for a lot on the budget but any help you guys can give me would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks a lot.

Ps. I've tried having a quick look around, you can get the Sony DCR-HC27 for £130. Is this any good? Thanks.

[redsox_mark]

There are now quite a few DV models (which all have Firewire) in this budget. In this budget they all have a single small sensor, so low light performance will be an issue for all of them.

I suggest the Canon MD101, as it can take an external mic, which can help with your audio challanges. Video quality for the price is decent.

[Ardmanz]

Thanks for your suggestion!

As far as an external mic goes, I probably wouldn't bother doing this (just because I'd probably have to spend a load of money getting a decent mic). I'm not expecting cd quality audio I just don't want a big distorted mess when watching it back. Unless anyone has had personal experience recording gigs with the camera I guess there's no way of telling.

Other than that the reviews look good for this camera (and the price is very reasonable). I will probably get this camera unless anyone else has any other suggestions?

Thanks again.