Need help deciding: DV Camcorders

[Uconn411]

I have looked at numerous websites, trying to find one that is best for me. I am looking for:
>Small form factor
>Image Stabilization
>Can handle different lighting situations
>Color Viewfinder (preferably, to save battery life)
>Firewire (of course)
>Decent battery life
>Under $500

My picks so far are the Canon ZR10 and ZR20 (very small);
Panasonic PV-DV51 and PV-DV101;
JVC GR-DVL805U

I love the size of the Canon series, I just don't care for the CCD being 290,000. Thanx for any advice.

 

[Uconn411]

I forgot to mention, I've read that the CCD only matters for still images. For video, the low resolution (720x480 for NTSC) won't be affect by the CCD.

 

[LethalWolfe]

<< I forgot to mention, I've read that the CCD only matters for still images. For video, the low resolution (720x480 for NTSC) won't be affect by the CCD. >>



That's totally false. The CCD is the most important part of any consumer video camera.


Lethal

 

[Uconn411]

Well, I found that piece of info over at Consumer DV reviews. Here's the Link.

 

[wepopfresh]

Clearer view

IMHO, your limiting yourself with a lesser camera. If you look around, you can find a great deal on something open box, returned, incomplete, etc...

I picked up a sony trv20 the other day cause i was goofing off at circuit city, and they had put it out on the floor with the hi8 and c-vhs recorders, an open box for $629. I couldn't have been happier.