Which pro/semipro camcoder would be best buy with a $650 dollars budget?

Question

With a $650, more or less, budget, which would be the camcorder,with the better quality, I mean more mega pixels, which would have one of the, or the best storage device (which I don't know either which would be), battery life, etc.
There is a world of camcorders out there, thats why I would love some suggestions....
Anyone?
Thanx

Answer 1

Here's a helpful camcorder buying guide:
http://www.easycamcorders.com/content/Beginners-Guide.htm

and a list of top camcorders of 2006:
http://www.camcorderinfo.com/content/CamInfo-Selects-2006.htm

The Panasonic’s PV-GS500 is probably the best camcorder that's just a little over your $650 budget.

Answer 2

First let's clear the air; equipment doesn't make someone a pro. It's all in the results not the toolset. The biggest tool can own the best tools and still turn out garbage.

For video, buying Sony is always good advice. Sony has a good reputation in the consumer video market and a broad selection of product. You'll get all you need to get started buying Sony; no surprises.

Don't be fooled by MegaPixels. All digital video cameras all have the same resolution - broadcast quality - 500 lines per inch. The MegaPixel claims in the marketing garbage refer to the still picture capabiltiy. Why do you care? You're buying a video camera.

Buy a MiniDV camcorder. All the other media types - DVD, HD, etc - are high return items. Is your PC up to the task of editing? Does it have IEEE 1394? If not, you;ll be buying a new one in the very near future.

So the $650 camcorder purchase, could well cost you another $1500-2000 to get a PC capable of editing your work. Just something to think about.

Answer 3

I agree with the person who answered before me. The panasonic line of 3ccd cameras are very good quality. I'm sure though, that they cost more then what you were looking to spend, but it's worth it to push your budget a little bit because 3ccd's are totally the way to go!