Another "Put Me In The Picture" re Budget Price Camcorders

tonymc

Hi,

Having searched the forum for advice on digital camcorders, I came across Tiff's posting from a few days ago.

Like Tiff, I am a bit technologically challenged when it comes to digital photography, and would very much appreciate any feedback from the MSE forum members.

I am looking to buy a fairly cheap (under £200 if possible) mini DV model to replace our now 6 year old VHS Camcorder, and it's main use will be to record family events/holidays etc. I'm not intending on doing much (if any!!) video editing, merely hoping to transfer from the camcorder onto DVD via the PC/DVD recorder.

Having followed some of the links noted under Tiff's posting, I have seen a substantial number under the £200 mark, and when you look at Argos, they are offering in some instances free Camcorder kits (bag/battery/tapes) which work out more cost effective that buying separately.

However, am still somewhat in the dark as to what the best camcorder would be. Although I suspect that everyone has their own views on different brands, are there any that should be avoided/any that should definitely be considered?

Having taken note of some of the points from Tiff's thread, I suspect that I will probably want to get to some sort of shortlist and then try them out at a camera shop before purchasing, but my initial problem is getting the shortlist down to a manageable number!!

Many thanks.

shown73

This might be of interest to you, from the latest "Which" mag, arrived today, and featuring camcorders. Most of the machines tested were well above your budget, but in a supplemental paragraph it says, and I quote;
" The Best Buy Panasonic NV-GS180, and Sony DCR-HC46E prove that you don't have to pay the earth to get a great camcorder. If you want change from £250, the Canon MV890, and Sony DCR-HC24E, are reasonable camcorders that produce decent quality video. They trail behind the Best Buys overall, though, and are not a good choice if you like to take still photos with your camcorder." The Sony costs £230, and the Canon £190, BUT, if you slip over to E-bay, and look up the Canonoutlet, you can pick up a selection of reconditioned, guarateed camcorders, and indeed lots of other things at greatly reduced prices.
Phew, hope this helps. At least it eliminates peoples personal opinions, and any other biases, and gives an objective view.

tonymc

Many thanks - will get searching for best deals!!

Tony