Sony Prosumer Camcorders
What is the cheapest but high quality prosumer camcorder?
I have been researching high end camcorders, such as the XL2 and the DVX100B, however, they’re both too expensive for my monetary situation. Does anyone know of a camcorder that is more frugal that also offers similar functions as the aforementioned camcorders, and not that Sony HVR-1000U?
The least expensive cameras that would qualify would also have a mic-in jack, full manual control of the major functions (audio level, zoom, exposure, focus) and use miniDV tapes:
Canon HV20, HV30
Sony HDR-HC7, HC9
For using pro-grade (XLR) mics with the 1/8″ mic jack, you will need an XLR adapter like those from BeachTek or juicedLink.
Also, from the Sony pro line, take a look at the Sony HVR-A1U. It is the “pro” version of the HDR-HC1 from a couple of years ago (but the A1U has a lot more functionality than the HC1), plus it has XLR mic jacks for pro-grade mics. It is more than the HVR1000U, but less than the XL2 or DVX100B… and the A1U will do high definition AND standard definition the XL2 and 100B are standard definition only). The A1U will not behave quite as well as the XL2 or 100B in extremely low light – but it is not so bad, either.
Sony HDR-FX7 CMOS High Definition Test
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SONY Video Dvc Mini Digital 63 Minute Hdsingle Single Pack Metal evaporated tape $16.49 This tape is the recommended media for Handycam HD camcorders. Independent film makers, advertising agencies and other videographers will appreciate the improved image quality, and the professional 63 minute tape duration. The DVM63HDR features 90 perce… |
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Hi-Def miniDV Videocassette – Single-Q90319 $12.99 1PK 63MIN HD DVC MINIDVVIDEO TAPE63 minutes recording timeOffers the highest quality recording media for the consumer or prosumer making the step-up to an HD camcorderIndependent film makers, advertising agencies and other videographers will appreciate the improved image quality, and the professional 63 minute tape durationFeatures 90 percent fewer errors and 50 percent fewer dropouts compared to … |
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Canon VIXIA HF G10 Full HD Camcorder with HD CMOS Pro and 32GB Internal Flash Memory $1,499.00 Packing in every feature a video enthusiast could ask for, the VIXIA HF G10 Flash Memory Camcorder is Canon’s new flagship consumer camcorder, providing the ultimate in HD video performance and quality. Incorporating a 32GB internal flash drive, as well as dual SDXC-compatible card slots, it delivers exceptional storage capacity. Recording Full HD 1920 x 1080 video, the VIXIA HF G10 features a Ge… |
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Panasonic HDC-HS900K 3 MOS 220GB HDD 3D Compatible Camcorder (Black) $759.99 The Panasonic HD 900 Series features an advanced 3MOS System, Leica Dicomar Lens, HYBRID O.I.S., 1080/60p resolution recording and 220GB Hard Drive. The Advanced 3MOS System records beautifully natural images with powerful colors and detailed rendering in both bright and dark scenes. The Noise Reduction technology that goes to work when shooting in dim lighting allows the camcorder to reduce noise… |