HD Video Cameras

Hi Rik,

I don't know what state you're in, but you really should get to a specialist store that sells the product and can give you advice, and so that you get everything you need in the purchase.

In Melbourne I highly recommend Michael's and in Adelaide, Diamonds. If you're elsewhere let me know.

There is nothing like having the thing in your hands in the store - take your time to see that it suits you and your needs.

Of course you can ensure you are then offered a good price by comparing it at online or discount stores, but you will probably find that the retailer will match prices anyway.

Cheers
Andrew.

Be sure to look at reviews that do detailed test of the camera ouput.

e.g. Site Link

Site Link

These are multipage reviews - check the "Performance" page.

I thought the GZ-HD7 would be a top performer with Fujinon lens and 3-CCD, but all reviews rate it's ouput as mediocre or not much better than standard MiniDV cams ! Here's a quote - "let’s take a look at the GZ-HD7’s performance. Overall, we have come to one conclusion: this JVC MPEG-2 transport stream is not as good as the best HDV performances. But neither did it suffer the worst parts of the AVCHD camcorders, which is the trailing and noise issues. The JVC GZ-HD7 is the middle ground. "

I have a JVC Hard disc recorder model GZ-MG135AA. Only had it a couple of weeks so don't know too much lol. I purchased JVC because they are the company which has made cam corders longer than any other company and that has to count for something............I am very happy with mine so far :)

Hi Rik whats ya budget and what are ya going to use the cam for? If you want to plug in mics, and do some editing, go for the Sony HVR-A1 with the balanced XLR audio inputs. (Records in the HDV format). It has a CMOS sensor, it's about $3500 though. If you want to get away from a tape-based format, the AVCHD format does seem ok for a consumer format, you can get it on built-in Hard Drive, Memory Stick, Mini DVD/ Blu-Ray. Even the broadcast world is moving away from tapes finally with XDCAM HD, XDCAM EX etc. I am hanging out to get the XDCAM EX when it comes out in November. If your in Melbourne or Sydney try Videocraft.

Making 5.1 movies, isn't quite what these domestic camcorders make themselves out to be. In the real deal, each channel of sound (whether its dialog or sound FX) is recorded individually using a mono shotgun mic, and all the surround fx are done in post production using Dolby Encoder. Your amp will be able to simulate 5.1 from a stereo mix from any camcorder just as well (if not better) than a 5.1 consumer camera can simulate it, by using Dolby Pro Logic II. If you want, I can explain it better, but it to put it simple, 5.1 recording built-in to a camera is just a gimmick, and any stereo mic on a camera, put through Dolby Pro Logic II will give you your surround. If you don't want to touch anything to do with editing, and just want a point and shoot solution, you have probably found the right camera for you, but if you want to take the time to making something properm go for the Sony HVR A1.

Gday Rik, maybe not what you are after but if you are going to use the camera inside or for close shots I would recommend a seperate original optional wide angle lense which is something the sellers dont tell you about. I found the short comings of video cameras out later and then couldnt get a proper original lense to suit my camera. I had to settle for an after market lense which was very expensive and absolute rubbish which I found out too late too. Mine is an older Panasonic mini DV camera though.
Good luck
Boris

Here are some good prices in Sydney

Canon HV20 $1,684
Panasonic HDC-SD1 $1,961
Sony, the HDR-SR7 $2,009

http://www.digitalcamerawarehouse.com.au/category142_1.htm