HD Camcorder Recommendations

ChAoTiCpInOy

Diamond Member
Jun 24, 2006
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Looking for a reccomendation for a HD camcorder around $1000. What should I be looking for in a good camcorder? Better to get HDD storage or SD cards? Any information will be helpful.
 

gsellis

Diamond Member
Dec 4, 2003
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While HDD or SD is quicker, I prefer tape still ($8.50 ea) as I have it "stored" on other media (13GB per tape). The HDD and SD have a lower bit stream rate, so are smaller.

There are now at least 6-10 cameras at $1k or cheaper. What do you plan on doing with it? That helps decide which and what features you will want (which helps refine what you want). Also check out the www.camcorderinfo.com review site.
 

imported_mnewmanesq

Junior Member
Aug 27, 2007
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Originally posted by: cliftonite
I think the Canon HV 20 is your best bet.

I just bought an HV20. For the price point it's probably the best consumer HD camera on the market if you're willing to stick with tapes.

 

gsellis

Diamond Member
Dec 4, 2003
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Counterpoint, the HV20 has some cheap pieces on it that are a little more prone to damage (this from the guy who has a dent and scratches on his HC7 - from the BoneHead Composites carbon fiber helmetcam box).

The point I wanted to find, do you need external audio, external monitor (headphones), more manual controls, LANC, specific hotshoe? Each help decide. The Canon's have slightly better pics and 24p (but Canon does not do the stream correctly with the pulldown signal - you will need to find some of the user apps popping up that will do the pulldown - 24p is inside a 60i stream).

The HV10 is about $700, but is pistol grip form factor. The HV20 is the same form factor as the HC5/7.