Sidebar Sidebar
Become a MacRumors Supporter for $50/year with no ads, ability to filter front page stories, and private forums.

Buying a camcorder and I don't know anything about it!

iLao

iLao

macrumors member
Original poster
Dec 26, 2007
97
0
Slovenia
Ok I do know this:

- I want hdd or flash.
- $400 is max. (=300€)
- It has to be compatible with iMovie '08.
- USB cable.


Please recommend me some camcorders. I want exceptionally good one. Please tell me some thing that I really need to know before I buy it.

Thank you 1OOOOO times.
 
iLao said:
Ok I do know this:

- I want hdd or flash.
- $400 is max. (=300€)
- It has to be compatible with iMovie '08.
- USB cable.


Please recommend me some camcorders. I want exceptionally good one. Please tell me some thing that I really need to know before I buy it.

Thank you 1OOOOO times.
Click to expand...

Anything Sony or JVC.
 
You can't get "exceptionally good" for that price. It just doesn't happen. Just like you can't get an "exceptionally good" audio recorder for that price or an "exceptionally good" digital still camera. It's impossible.

With that said, I'd go for something which doesn't use MemoryStick and the sort but standards, and has good battery life. Big Brand is where to look.
 
I would recommend the Canon FS200. The FS100 maybe be more expensive, but its not as good. The camcorder as few flaws in quality, and excellent for the price. I believe it is comparable to my Canon HV20 in standard definition. Although, if you do have a firewire port, just go for firewire. Its worth it. Check out some test videos on YouTube and see if you like it. ;)
 
iLao said:
Why?
Click to expand...
Because memory sticks and that kind is more expensive, usually slower, and far from being everywhere,, should you need a new card with short notice.


I have a firewire. But what if someday I buy a computer that doesn't have it, what will I do then. Is firewire faster?
Click to expand...
Yes, but that's not the reason. Firewire is better for video and audio for numerous reasons. There's a huge thread on this, though. But my opinion on this is that firewire is what I need, which has meant me leaving the platform. In other words, you shouldn't let the computer set the lowest standard for all the rest.
 
It's far simpler going out and take a look at what's available at your price point and better yet in your area. Then, after having fooled around with a couple then go home and see if someone has made a review of how (well) it (the specific brand and model) interacts with iMovie.
That list, as it is, seems somewhat flawed from a quick glance down it.
 
Hello,

I was at the store today and they had Sony DCR-SX30. It looks cool. The price is good. I just need your professional thoughts. Also i don't seem to find any information on their site(sony). Also, will it work with my mac and imovie?
 
iLao said:
Hi I also want to be compatible with iMovie, so I must buy one of these???
Click to expand...

That list shows all of the cameras that you can start iMovie, plug in your camera, and import footage directly. If you can mount the camera on the Mac and drag the files over, you should be able to (with varying levels of difficulty) somehow get the video into iMovie. Having said that, when I was looking for a pocket camera to supplement my Canon HV20 I made direct iMovie ('09 in my case) compatibility a requirement. That meant immediately discounting the Creative Vado HD and looking at the Flip Mino HD and Sony Webbie HD. I ended up getting the Sony for carrying around (unplanned shots) and still use the HDV tape-based Cannon HV20 for more planned events. I'd second the HV20 recommendation (or even HV30 if they've dropped to your price range yet) but it is FireWire.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Register on MacRumors! This sidebar will go away, and you'll see fewer ads.
Top Bottom
Back