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Looking for a good HD camcorder

iToaster

iToaster

macrumors 68000
Original poster
May 3, 2007
1,742
0
In front of my MacBook Pro
Hiya everyone, I've been looking around at camcorders, but haven't really found much that suits my needs. Does anyone know of any HD camcorders, preferably with firewire transfers, and Mac compatibility (obviously). P.S. I like Canon, but will go with whatever suits my desires.
 
Ok, that's cool. I'm not looking to spend tons of money, just enough for a decent camcorder (saving for MBP), but I was wondering what would be a good product to potentially purchase. Also, it's confusing on canon's website as to what works on a mac, but I take it the HV20 works on a Mac, I've been eyeing it. Thanks for suggestions so far.
 
iToaster said:
Ok, that's cool. I'm not looking to spend tons of money, just enough for a decent camcorder (saving for MBP), but I was wondering what would be a good product to potentially purchase. Also, it's confusing on canon's website as to what works on a mac, but I take it the HV20 works on a Mac, I've been eyeing it. Thanks for suggestions so far.
Click to expand...

Basically all of Canons consumer camcorders are compatible with Mac except the DVD camcorders. HV10 and the HV20 are the only consumer models that Canon makes which are HD.

Also check out the new Canon Powershot TX1. I just bought it last Saturday.
Its a 7.1 megapixel camera which can also HD movies to SD cards. Cost is $500.
 
For consumer HDV camcorders in the ~$1000 price range, nothing beats the Canon HV20.

The other option that is also good is the Sony HDR-HC7.
 
I do indeed think that the HV20 is the camcorder for me. I like the size, the price is right, and it's got great features. One more thing, I read in a review on Apple.com that said it would connect with a firewire cable for video conferencing and direct capture. Is that true? (it'd be awesome if it was)
 
iToaster said:
I do indeed think that the HV20 is the camcorder for me. I like the size, the price is right, and it's got great features. One more thing, I read in a review on Apple.com that said it would connect with a firewire cable for video conferencing and direct capture. Is that true? (it'd be awesome if it was)
Click to expand...

The IDEAL HD camera would be the handling and functionality of the Sony HC7, the image quality of the Canon HV20, and the audio and sleek design of the Panasonic SR-1.

Now, do you wonder why the companies can't put their minds together and release such a thing? (hint: cutting costs, cheapo globalization)
 
iToaster said:
I do indeed think that the HV20 is the camcorder for me. I like the size, the price is right, and it's got great features. One more thing, I read in a review on Apple.com that said it would connect with a firewire cable for video conferencing and direct capture. Is that true? (it'd be awesome if it was)
Click to expand...

Yes, you can connect via firewire and record directly to iMovie for example... haven't tried video conferencing though.
 
HV20 is your best bet.

Also has an HDMI input. The picture quality is stunning. Also had DV (FW400 4 pin). Amazing value. Would be worth it at $1,600. But don't pay that much. One of the rare electronic "best buy values" out there that includes high quality, great features, and a fair price.
 
Well, if I'm gettin' anything, it will be the HV20. It good to know it has a firewire on it, so my firewire port has a job. And if it's firewire, it will work with iMovie and things that can use an external camera, but videoconferencing in HD would probably require high bandwidth. Thanks for the input.
 
iToaster said:
Well, if I'm gettin' anything, it will be the HV20. It good to know it has a firewire on it, so my firewire port has a job. And if it's firewire, it will work with iMovie and things that can use an external camera, but videoconferencing in HD would probably require high bandwidth. Thanks for the input.
Click to expand...

I use my Canon Optura 60 as my videoconferencing camera, and it works great. iChat, Skype, whatever, it's perfect.
 
Personally, I'd get the Panasonic HVX200. Then if you really need to pimp your cam buy the M2 lens adapter for some sweet, sweet footage.
 
skubish said:
Also check out the new Canon Powershot TX1. I just bought it last Saturday.
Its a 7.1 megapixel camera which can also HD movies to SD cards. Cost is $500.
Click to expand...
Now that you've had it for a little while, what is your impression as a video camera, and as a digital camera?
 
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