View Full Version : Buying 3rd camcorder in 4 years, going HD..Best low light camera under $1000?


kam1996
11-10-08, 09:02 PM
Hey guys,

I have been a member for Years and this forum has helped me make more infirmed electronic decisions than any other source on the web or otherwise. For that, I thank you all who continue to share vital information and to those who know from experience and more than the most of us can gather by simply reading different forums.
I am a proud father of 5 and 6 year olds. I originaly bought a canon MiniDv camcorder 5 years ago when my daughter was born, hated its low light indoor performance and returned it with in 2 weeks. Did some research and bought the entry level Sony TRV miniDv and have been happy with it, given what I invested in it and given the technology.
Although the Sony has been great, as I go through some 45+ miniDv tapes I have recorded in the last 4 years, I am "stuck" with average to down right bad home movies due to bad-low lighting.
Now that I have decided to dive into the HD camcorder market, I woudl like to make sure the camera I purchase, is at least the best low light performer in its price segment. Better and better products will continue to hit the market, all I can do is to make an informed purchase with as much information available as possible.
My budget is around $700-$800. Number 1 priority is Low light performance, with young kids and winter up ahead, most of my movies will be indoor and I woudl like for them to be as good as possible.
Please share your recommendations, personal opinions and expereinces so a fellow member can make a good and rewarding purchase.

kam1996
11-10-08, 10:55 PM
Just wanted to add that I did search the archives but did not find a "newer" post/thread than mar 08.
Since things change quickly in electronics, I just wanted to get the latest feedback.

osv
11-11-08, 12:49 PM
i'm guessing that you would be disappointed with the low-light performance of an hd camcorder that sold for $800 or less... the technology isn't there yet.

the hf11 that i bought has been a disappointment in low light, and it's rated as one of the top camcorders.

Rich127
11-11-08, 01:02 PM
kam1996, I'm not sure what Sony MiniDV unit you had, some were very good in low light, TRV33, HC90 and HC96. ANd some were not very good (My HC40 for example).

The Canon HV30 is not bad in low light. It is in your price range. But there just are not good low light HD consumer camcorders. I sometimes wonder if there ever will be and if people will understand the need for light. (I'm not picking on you.)



Rich