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General discussion

What should I do?

by digicamdude Nov 14, 2007 12:26AM PST

I own a Sony Handycam TRV-280 Digital8 camcorder. I am thinking about upgrading to a MiniDV camcorder. If I sell my camcorder (I'm thinking I'd get about $200 for it), what MiniDV camcorder should I buy? I am thinking about Canon ZR800. Consumer Reports likes it, but CNET says it's not great. If it isn't, which one should I buy? I will be shooting some in low light.
I would like a microphone input, but it is not imperative.

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5 Posts
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if the ZR800
by boya84 Nov 14, 2007 1:16AM PST

is what your budget works with, be aware that it is the least expensive camcorder with a proper mic-in jack. It is not known for its low-light capabilities. Also be aware that it does not have manual audio control...

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how does the pictures quality compare..
by digicamdude Nov 14, 2007 3:04AM PST

I'm just wondering how the picture quality compares on it with my TRV-280. Is it better, or not as good?
Would the Panasonic PV-GS80/83/85 look better than either one?

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I have no way to compare the
by boya84 Nov 14, 2007 4:08AM PST

TRV-280 to the current camcorders... maybe there are other sources... like camcorderinfo.com or elswhere... sorry.

As for the Pannys you list, since they don't have a mic-in jack, they would fall off my long list pretty early - even if the video was better... and if it is better, it will likely only be marginally better not a LOT better (so yes, I am willing to trade some video performance for that mic-in jack - even with no manual audio control).

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thanks for the reply...
by digicamdude Nov 14, 2007 5:22AM PST

Thanks for the reply. What other budget camcorders have mic input?

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None... of which I am aware.
by boya84 Nov 14, 2007 6:17AM PST

The next one that comes close is the Sony HDR-HC96, but you either need to use a Sony proprietary mic in the proprietary active interface or an adapter from B&H Photo to use normal mics...

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