I recommend you consider a high quality pre-owned camcorder, such as an entry level prosumer model. There are a number of high end Canon, Sony, and other models for sale as the push for HD marches forward.
You are near the affordable range for a pre-owned Canon XL1-S. I will be listing mine for sale very soon; just sold my GL2 Friday, in prep for one of the new Canon HD cams. I still have 2 years of warranty remaining because I bought the longest MACK extended warranty available.
It should be easy to find a good deal on a standard def model now. Your timing is PERFECT!
GOOD LUCK!!
Hi all,
Beginning my research on a new digital camcorder. Could somebody start me out by telling me which brands are well trusted for their ease of use, functions, and QUALITY?
I know about digital cameras, but I don't know if the brands that are good in cameras will transfer over to the digital camcorder field so any help would be appreciated!
I would like something ultra compact though with best picture quality. Yes, battery-life and media support is almost important.
It will be my first so I'm looking to spend somewhere around $500-$800. Not completely high-end since I am new and will want to play it by ear to see what I like what I don't like in a camcorder before I buy my 2nd one in the future. But I don't want an entry level one for a lower price since I know I'm gonna want to mess around alot with the options and be creative.

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