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General discussion

Which digital camcorder would YOU buy?

Aug 8, 2005 11:21AM PDT

I'm shopping around for a digital camcorder in the price range of $700-$800 (Canadian funds), or $575-$660 (US funds). What brand and model would YOU buy, having these features:
- MiniDV
- 10X++ optical zoom
- image stabilization
- top loading tape
- Firewire, S-video and USB ports
- decent low-lighting capabilities
- memory card slot for stills (but could live without)
- ability to dump footage to PC via Firewire for editing
- any other good features you think are good

any tips / ideas / suggestions /or comments would be appreciated!

Discussion is locked

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Canon Elrua 90
Aug 8, 2005 3:52PM PDT

Great camera, rgeat features for the price. or you can save a few $$$'s and go for the Elura 85

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Elura 80?
Aug 9, 2005 12:07AM PDT

how about the Elura 80?

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Canon elura 80/85/90
Aug 9, 2005 12:31PM PDT

The 80 does not have the following the 85 has:

Super Night Vision (supposedly better low light ability)

AF Assist Lamp

Mic Input (big one for me - that is what closed the deal for the 85, but may not matter if you are not going to use external mic)

The additions of those for me was worth the extra $40 or so. The additions from 85 to 90 however was not worth the next jump of I think $80 or so

Good link with review and comparision chart
http://www.dvspot.com/reviews/canon/elura85-review/index.shtml

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great input!
Aug 9, 2005 2:57PM PDT

Thanks for the input Chip_Leader! Anyone have any advice to share?

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elura 80
Feb 24, 2006 12:42AM PST

I believe the Elura 80 is worth getting. It's better priced. Also if you wanted to buy add on's later it is possible. For me I didn't need a built in light, external mic etc.. However you can order a light if you want one later in the future. The audio quality on this camera is amazing. I give that an A++.

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Sony Handycam DSC-HC46 or HC96
Apr 14, 2006 1:12PM PDT

The 46 has more zoom (12x) and a 1MP still camera, and the 96 has a 10x zoom with a bigger lens that is better for low light and a 3MP still with a flash, and all of the other features you wanted. The S Video cable is not included, it comes with composite, but it is an available accessory

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Canon Elura 80/85/90
May 25, 2006 6:11AM PDT

I would love to get either of Canon's Elura models (excluding previous models and the Elura 100). I have used a ZR30MC since 2004 and I have had enough of it. I have done well over a month of researching and saved up $200+. Not bad for a teen videographer like myself. I'm confident in Canon's video cameras, as I'm not a firm believer in Sony's trash.

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Camcorders
May 25, 2006 11:09PM PDT

I don't know what to suggest on brands or models, but I have learned the hard way to explore the software and editing end of things before you buy the camera. I own a Sony Handycam, not a bad little camera, but have been very dissapointed in the software interfacing, lack of good instructions and help available from Sony. Having learned that not all cameras will interface with the software I prefer, I will now look further into the whole process of what I plan to do with my video before I buy another camera. Video editing is not difficult itself with good software, but the software/hardware compatibility issues surrounding the process have made me crazy and there is very little good help in this area available (how to books, hotlines, etc.)

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Editing
May 27, 2006 7:04AM PDT

Any digital camcorder with firewire is fine for editing.
The software that comes with all camcorders is pretty much worthless.
There are a couple of free programs out there, but you really have to pay a little bit for a decent program.
There are quite a few options for under $100.
Vegas Movie Studio, Adobe Premiere Elements, Pinnacle Studio, etc.
These programs offer a great deal of features for a rather small price.
They also work with any mini-dv camcorder with firewire.