Best Camcorder for VMS+DVD

S Vid wrote on 1/7/2006, 10:11 AM
I want to purchase a camcorder and make DVDs.
Sonys tend to be a lttile more expensive than the others.
Any advantage using a Sony Camcorder (MiniDV, thinking of the HC21) vs. the other brands with the configuration below?

Computer: Sony VAIO Desktop (with GigaPocket, iLINK, etc.)
Software: Sony VMS+DVD ($30, after rebates!)
Camcorder: ??

Thanks in advance.

And why is it so difficult to obtain an account and post a question in this forum?
Serial Number, Computer ID, Activation Code, etc.
I purchased a retail copy of VMS+DVD and registered it a while back, and I have to go through the process of getting an activation code just to post a question here?

Comments

IanG wrote on 1/9/2006, 7:24 AM
I think you can take that as a no! The software doesn't care what sort of camera was used - if you've got mini DV then that's it!

Regarding registration, I've no idea why it's setup this way - given that most people here are positive about VMS I'd have thought it was in Sony's interests to be as open as possible.

Ian G.
dibbkd wrote on 1/9/2006, 10:06 AM
One thing to keep in mind when buying a camcorder is to not worry about a lot of "bells and whistles".

A lot of them mention they can do video effects like B&W, sepia, etc, but really I would not worry about those because you can do all that and more with Vegas Studio.
sping wrote on 1/9/2006, 10:37 AM
If you are in Europe, there are DV cameras with only DV-out, which will prevent you from using Print To Tape. Make sure to get DV-In/Out.
Don't think this is an issue in the US.

/Olle
Ptero wrote on 1/9/2006, 11:57 AM
As has been mentioned some features are just candy, but there are some features I wouldn't do without. First, automatic image stabilization is a must - great for handheld work. Second, I wouldn't choose a camera that doesn't have the battery pack mounted on the outside - this gives you a choice of batteries of various capacities. Third, optical zoom - digital zoom can be useful but only optical zoom gives you a constant image resolution. Fourth, good low-light capability - most Sony cameras I've seen even have a "night-shot" mode that uses infra-red; I never thought I'd use this but in fact I used it on my very first trip out, to get some footage of bats and kinkajoos kept in very dark enclosures. Last, being able to plug in an external mike may be a good thing - the internal mikes limit what you can do.
rustier wrote on 1/9/2006, 9:39 PM
I have an HC21 - nice camera but if you can spare the extra bucks think about the next step up - I can't remember the number (hc34?) if you want a Sony - I am happy with mine - the point is - having a camera with a video "pass through" feature. I have some old family videos on VCR tape and want to bring them into my SVMS program. The easiest way would be to plug your camera into the vcr and your computer and let her rip. While passing through the camera it is digitally encoded - nice and easy. Otherwise you have to use video capture "accessories" or software which may complicate things. As it stands now I have to jump through some "extra hoops" to get things done when bringing in vcr video. Something to consider. P.S. gotta have Firewire on your Sony it is called ilink its a 4 pin(hc21) to 4 pin(ilink VAIO multimedia computer). P.P.S. external mic jack would be a very nice thing to have