Got my digital camera situation squared away (bought Canon A75) and now looking to replace my aging Sony TR86 8mm camcorder. Been looking at the Sony HC30 and HC40 and the Canon Optura 10/20/30, but can't get a clear direction on which would be the best for our needs. Not really concerned about digital stills, but would like compact size and weight, good video quality, "decent" low light quality and analog-to-digital conversion. Any suggestions from users of any of the above models would be appreciated.

~Ed

I'm looking into getting a digital camcorder myself. A friend of mine just recommended the Canon ZR80. He is recommending it since it's got a lot of good features without the huge price tag. It's only about $350 on most web sites.

Eddie,

I just purchased a Canon Optura 30 and love it (sorry) LOVE IT!!
It's a little expensive compared to some, but Best Buy has it for a descent price.

It has 2.2CCD which delivers a crystal clear playback. It also has a 16x9 mode so you can record to play back on a wide screen tv.

It takes 2 megapixel digital still photos on the sd card, nice and clear.

Yes it does have all the ports, cords, and related software (Pinnacle studio 9) to convert your old analog tapes to digital or to DVD via your computer. I'm in the process of doing it now, it's easy.

The thing I also put a lot of stock in is the fact that Consumer reports gave it a very high rating. My rule of thumb is to check their ratings for any "big boy toys". They haven't steered me wrong yet.

I've only had it a little while, and bought it for our trip the end of the month to WDW, but it's sure hard to beat in my opinion. I think you'd be happy with choosing the Canon. :D :D

Wingnut:

The Optura 30 is one I've considered, despite some reviews that slam the low-light abilities. What is your opinion of the low light and the (standard) battery capacity? The 30 is at the upper end of what I have budgeted for a camcorder ($564 online w/o extra batt, memory, or blank tapes). I'd hope to stay under $550 with those extras, but may have to scrape up some loose change somewhere...

~Ed

It may be hard for me to judge the light....

It is only about average per consumer reports, which rated even the top cameras ($1000. plus) with avg nite capabilities.

That being said, it films a whole lot better in low light than my old analog Canon 8mm did.

I couldn't find one that I liked better. I've got no complaints with it. And hey, I don't think you'll find a better deal that you described. That's 100 less than I paid (lone tear streaking down his face).

oops, sorry, hit the wrong button....

The batt that comes with it will last about an hour filming, however, they do make a 2hr battery number BP2L14. Charging time for a dead battery(1hr batt) is 3 hrs. Don't have the 2 hr yet.

Hope this helps..............Wingnut

Wing:

Yes, that helps quite a bit. Due to weight considerations, I'd probably just get another "standard" battery, which would give me two hours of filming. I'm guessing I need an extra SD card, as well. We just ordered a Canon A75 digicam last week...supposed to be delivered tomorrow...so no real pressing need for stills from the camcorder, but what I read indicates that the Optura 30 really shines (for a camcorder) in this area. I used to do quite a bit of 35mm photography and we have a boatload of Minolta Maxxum gear. I like to shoot chromes (slides) and plan to take my 7000i and zoom lens to shoot in that medium, along with the camcorder. If you are there in December and see a photo store with legs, it'll prolly be me. Oh, BTW, my wife and I have photojournalist vests that are absolutely perfect for lugging your "stuff" around Mickey's World. We got ours at Banana Republic, which no longer carries them, but the ones at the link below look to be identical. PLENTY of pockets, inside and out!

http://secure.sovietski.com/cgi-bin/Sovietski.storefront/4174648901177d6e9c4dc0a80a660728/Product/View/151454&2D1

I appreciate your "take" on the Optura and will give it due consideration. Still trying to make sure I get the best 'corder for my needs for the $, which means online ordering, and no ability to return if I don't like it, which is why I need to be absolutely sure before plunking down the cash.

~Ed

I am also in the market for a camcorder without breaking the bank. I am getting it primarily to record the birth of my new soon in February. Also I will be using it to record him as he grows up. But don't forget the trips to Disneyland! :D

So far I have broken my research down to these models:

Samsung SC-D107
Canon ZR85
Panasonic PV-GS14
JVC GR-D72US

Any comments, suggestions, or experiances?

I also found a very helpful site for camcorder reviews.

www.camcorderinfo.com