I am looking to purchase a new video camera and need some advice. What are the current arguments for and against MiniDV vs Mini-DVD. I am leaning toward MiniDV only because it’s cheaper and I can edit on my PC. I have been looking at the Panasonic GS-15 or GS-120. Anyone have an opinion on a decent camera. Criteria: Sub $600, at least 24x real zoom, manual focus, good low light, single or 3CCD (depends on price), image stabilization and USB or other (Firewire) video out. I could care less about digital zoom, still picture, color viewfinder, etc. I want a decent camera to shoot vacations, events and children. Thank for the help. Sorry forgot to mention NTSC
well i'd look for a sony hc 31 i think is what it is it is a pretty good camera however you can edit the video off a mini dvd i would get the mini dv though just connect your firewire cable
I would never go for an optical-media based camera. Ever. MiniDV is much more versatile, and offers better quality especially for the price. As a rule of thumb, Panasonic and Sony models are the best to go for. However, lower model panasonics tend to suffer from problems in low light, but offer superior quality in good lighting. Canon's are nice, but avoid the MV600/700/750(i)'s - they have problems with the onboard mic picking up motor noise from the tape transport system, and offer no external mic option. Take a look at the Panasonic GS120 and Canon MVX models, they arguably offer the best for your money.
Thanks for the response. I have looked at the GS120 and am seriously thinking about it since there is a new model replacing it. I would guess that in a few weeks, I can get pretty cheap. The problem is that the optical zoom is only 10x. Since digital zoom is completely worthless, I am in a bit of a quandary.
Then take a look at the GS15 or maybe 17 if it's available, they have 24x zoom. However, 10x isn't all that bad. It depends on what you want and what you really need.
I haven't seen the 17. I will look today. Basically i am looking to shoot my kids at schoold events/parties/sports and the occaisional vacation. Of course that makes it difficult since I will be indoors and outdoors. Low light is a bit of a concern, but considering that i am starting from a 8mm 10year old Sony I would imagine about any camera would be a huge improvement. Thanks. EDIT: If I'm not mistaken, the 17 is PAL. Won't work for me. I am waiting for the GS35 in March. Thanks again.
Dude if u liked GS120, then u can go for GS125 or GS250. these are the 2 new 3CCD models launching in March/April. It will be much more affordable than the old ones. & they are coming with big optical zoom.
