I would like to purchase a camcorder in the $1,000 to $2000 range. Can you please tell me the best one?

Question

I like HD and 3CCD technologies, but whats better, can I get both??

Answer 1

Here's the list of best camcorders for 2006:
http://www.camcorderinfo.com/content/CamInfo-Selects-2006.htm

Answer 2

Hello there:
If I was purchasing another one, I would go for the Camcorder with the hard drive built in. The DVD Camcorders can only get a maximum of 34 minutes per side, and if you are taking a movie and its longer that the 34 minutes you have to stop and turn the DVD around.
The hard drive Camcorder runs continuous so you don't have to keep putting in cassettes or DVDs. They cost more but in the long run you are going to be happy!!
As far as brands, you have to remember that when you by something that has a big name like Sony, you are paying for that name. There are lots of Camcorders that are equal if not better than the "big name brands" so do your homework and don't let a salesman decide what you need!! Choose what you want.
I hope this helps!
iamjustrandy

Answer 3

Great question. I have a 3CCD Canon GL2 and like it a lot, but if you are serious, a Canon XL2 is a bargain. It's got XLR sound inputs, (so you can use professional microphones with phantom power), an optical 20X zoom, real 16X9 format, (so the picture is really sharp), and interchangeable lenses. HD is nice, but it's way more demanding for your editing equipment, and right now the good standard definition cameras are looking pretty nice for the money, since HD is hot.
The 3CCD HD Sony is a great camera, but costs 5K

Answer 4

For indie films? I suggest that you go with MiniDV. There is a great website here www.camcorderinfo.com and it has a great messageboard www.camcorderinfo.com/bbs .

The ones you might want to look at are the Canon GL2, Sony VX2000, Sony VX2100. Those are the ones that come off the top of my head.

Remember that you'll need accessories like a tripod, better mic (the onboard is usually horrible so I suggest for cheap the Rode Videomic), more tapes (These are Minidv who on ebay you can get for about $2.50-$3.00 (depending on shipping, etc.) each), etc.

Check out that messageboard and read some threads or search through them. Tons of info there.

Oh, and ebay can be your friend, but be careful. There are a lot of scams on it. Check the person's feedback, etc, etc. etc. When I was buying mine I was getting fake e-mails or e-mails from hacked accounts tryin' to offer me a second chance on camcorders I never bid on. They are a huge scam item right now, so protect yourself. (This was ontop of scam auctions from low feedback or hacked accounts).

You've been warned on that, but you can get a great deal if you do it right (Again...be careful and I take no responsibility for you or anyone else taking this advice). Also, read the description 'cause some people will make it seem like you get more than you do.

Answer 5

Here are some Canon ones that have HD and 3CCD's:

XL-H1
XH-A1
XH-G1

The XH ones are like the GL series (lens is not removable), the XL ones have several lenses available.

Prices for these though are kinda high...$3000-8000...

There is one Canon has that isn't a 3CCD but it is very small and HD...the HV10 ($1200 suggested list)...

Answer 6

Uh..try searching Yahoo or Google

Type Sony or whatever brand of camcorder you have in mind then add the specific type of camcorder.

Hope this helps.

Peace.

Answer 7

go to http://www.benjischwimmer.com/shop.php...

on the front page itself they will display the best selling Camera wth all user reviews. So you can see what's going on with all the brands before you buy it. I think that is the smart and right way to do it to learn from the current ussers

good luck
http://www.shopgiftonline.com

Answer 8

If your spending that much and want quality I would get sony

Answer 9

Sony HVR-A1U

Answer 10

i think that the cheapeast cam are in best buy