| PsychoKnight |
Long ago, I used to be a semi-pro med. format still photographer, but I'm cluesless as to vidcams. Some of you know I just got our first procreation, and she's just hit 2 months and wife is brow-beating over why I haven't got a video camera yet. The truth is, I procratinate with things I'm completely ignorant about. Need help big time, as I need something quick.
Don't have interest, nor energy to do all the research as to what is the current rage in features and reliability in the compact-sized $450-650 price range. I don't even know anything about what the standard format is. I would prefer to record directly to dvd, but it doesn't seem possible in that price range. The only carry-over issue I have from still photo is a quality lense assembly - none of this digital zoom crap. I know I can't get Hasselblad or Zarovski quality glass in this price range, but if someone can point me to some well-reviewed products, I'll take what I can get for the money.
Thanks if you can help. I'd like to place an order or pick up something by the end of the month. |
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| dj-mdx2 |
I know you said you didn't want to slog through loads of information, but here's a link with the basics of digital video(the prices are out-of-date, though):
http://www.pcworld.idg.com.au/index...p;1;taxid;56789
Here's cnet's editor's choices:
http://reviews.cnet.com/Compact_cam...-4.html?tag=txt
Personally, I'm biased towards Sony and Canon, because they've been in the industry for so long. Canon has the edge as far as lens quality. And you're right, the least expensive straight-to-DVD is just above $600.
I'm surprised your wife hasn't bought one herself -- you've already missed the first 2 months of your young 'un's video chronicles! :2:
Good luck camcorder-hunting! |
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| Robyjo |
Hey Bruce (sorry, can't shake the old pseudonym),
I was in the exact same boat (first procreation and all), and after extensive review, word of mouth and research, settled on the Panasonic GS200. Excellent value and equally excellent reviews, only complaint is the image stabilization. On the upside, we love the low light performance. Check out this out if you'd like a full unbiased review. Also, I bought it from here for $725, so it breaks your budget a bit...but most reviewers say it's the best buy at this price point. Looks like they're out of stock temporarily too.
Just a thought, if you can push your budget a bit... |
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