Camera New

New camcorder?

I am going to be mass producing a short DVD, so I need to buy a new camcorder. I need something that on the final copy, I will have decent picture quality, and good sound on the DVD. I have a tight budget, but I am looking for good quality as a dvd.

Public Comments

1. Sony handycam. DCR-HC38 Dv 40x digital Camcorder. $279.65 at DELL.
2. Assuming you're going to be transferring the video into a computer for non-linear editing through a program like Final Cut or Premiere, I'd highly recommend choosing a MiniDV camera over a DVD or Hi8. For true SD broadcast quality (and, in turn, DVD quality), you'll want a 3-CCD camera. The Panasonic AG-DVC20 is a good entry-level camera, cheaper than but comparable to the Cannon GL2. Neither of these cameras have an XLR microphone input jack but they will take microphones via a mini-stereo connector. The Cannon will shoot widescreen, I'm not sure if the Panasonic will. If the prosumer-grade cameras are out of your budget range, then Panasnoic makes the PV-GS320, a palm-size 3-CCD camera for a little less than half the price of the DVC20. There's no microphone input though. Keep in mind a great picture is practically worthless if the sound is garbage. Make sure your camera has the same type of interface as your computer if you're planning to upload the video to your computer. Most cameras have a DV Firewire port, many have both Firewire and USB. I've always used Firewire to upload video, never had a lot of problems with it. The Sony Handicam series of MiniDV camcorders don't have 3-CCD, but they do have an excellent picture for the price and they will work as a nice makeshift logging deck to boot.
3. HD ALWAYS HD