Hello
1)Sony will beat these other camcorders every time. They are easier to use, and will perform much better in lower lit situations.
2)You can convert MiniDV to DVD with a stand alone DVD burner or with your computer if it has firewire and a DVD burner.
3)You cannot edit mini DVD footage in a computer. The discs are Mini DVD discs and are more expensive than the kind you refer to. Mini's are 3" discs.
I've read several accounts on this discussion board. I am buying a camcorder for my wife (read - simple)<$500. Can someone:
1) offer a concise comparison of Sony HCR32, Canon RZ200 and equiv Panasonic MiniDv vs. equivalent DVD.
2) A clear explanation of ease of converting miniDV to DVD for standard player replay.
3) Is only downside of miniDVD the short record time? What kind of discs are required and how much do each cost. I see you can buy 50 DVD-R discs for around $20 - is that the right kind? If so, one could just record many discs, albeit there is no editing capability, right?
Thanks

Chowhound
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