www.chirpthird.com: nfb - Thoughts on Camcorders?

This is topic nfb - Thoughts on Camcorders? in forum SSOA: "Back Porch" at www.chirpthird.com.

To visit this topic, use this URL:
http://www.chirpthird.com/ubbcgi/ultimatebb.cgi/ubb/get_topic/f/3/t/011925.html

Posted by Sideshow (Member # 1231) on 08 January, 2003 11:27 AM:

Considering purchasing my first camcorder. Any thoughts/suggestions or certain ones that would be recommended or should stay away from. Use will likely remain fairly basic so don't necessarily need top end. Any input would be appreciated. Thanks.

Posted by 2002Z4CSS (Member # 1393) on 08 January, 2003 12:00 PM:

I have a decent JVC that has several features that most of which I don't even use. Paid less than $400 for it and it is digital. Has a 8X zoom. I would not recommend getting one with a huge zoom unless it was mounted in a tripod. The more zoom and digital zoom the more it will shake when not using a tripod.Get an extra battery. I seem to run out of battery ,never tape.

Posted by 35TH ED/ed (Member # 1709) on 08 January, 2003 12:00 PM:

Always liked Sony [Smile]

. 1st one was over 10 years old when we updated and it was still working.

Posted by RHT (Member # 902) on 09 January, 2003 01:21 AM:

I just bought one myself and did a bunch of research....my son is 18 months old so I am in video mode!

I bought a Canon Elura 40 MC. I love it! It lists for $999 in all the stores, but I found it on Proteck.com for $700 and then I got a $100 rebate from Canon.

I like Sony too and I considered them first. But, you will pay for Sony. I like the ergonomics of the Canon better, it's small, has a 10X optical zoom etc. etc. You just can't beat it for the price. The zoom is also much easier to use than the Sony....it's not so touchy. Features are a little better on Sony, but not worth it to me for the money.

My advice:
Don't buy in a store, find it online.
www.zdnet.com (for reviews and links to purchase.)
www.cnet.com (same)

Get a miniDV format (proven media, easy to find, not too expensive, and all software will work.)

Get one that is small so you will actually take it around with you....so that means an upright form factor in my opinion.

Then, just buy one you like the look and feel of...so you will enjoy using it. I will be buying a DVD burner w/ the money I saved on the Canon and making DVD's of my Son...and SS [Big Grin]

, in a little while.

Ryan

Posted by Sideshow (Member # 1231) on 10 January, 2003 10:32 AM:

Thanks for the replies. I appreciate the input. [Cool]

UBB.classic™ 6.7.0