good camera Digital or Analog for under 500

wellston wrote on 4/12/2005, 1:05 PM

Could anyone give me a reasonable suggestion for a good camera -apx$500.
Should I stay clear of Analog's ?- I understand that the TRV328 is a really good camera for the price. I am not pro but I would like to learn alot more, especially using VV4(currently my version). I have more artistic sensibilities and envision doing some very creative short videos. (family and otherwise) I do have the datavideo (DAC-1) unit for transfers and plan to update my computer sometime soon. I'm actually learning how to use VV4 by using my mpeg1 clips and jpegs from my sony mavica MVC - 300 and have had a lot of fun doing so, but I would like a real video camera for my projects.
Thanks for any input.

Comments

Michael L wrote on 4/12/2005, 1:54 PM

Not totally in your price range but worth the Money

Panasonic GS120 is a 3ccd digital video with a 1.2mb still camera. I saw one on sale at best buy a couple of weeks ago for $549. (it is being replaced by another model). I have one and it is a wonderful camera.

B.Verlik wrote on 4/12/2005, 4:16 PM

Consider a used Sony Digital 8 camcorder. You can pick up a decent model for about $300. Most people don't use them much and usually have a lot of life left. Check Ebay and only use seller with an extremely good rating. (99.7 or better) Certain models have a 1/4 inch CCD chip and take a much more superior pic to newer 1/6inch chip models. Some of these models also have a "Pass-through" feature with will transfer your old VHS stuff much better than the Datavideo. (I own the DAC-100) The picture quality of the 1/4 inch chip models is pretty impressive in outdoor lighting.

wellston wrote on 4/13/2005, 1:35 PM

Thanks for your help. I may eventually step up to this camera.
The considerations "The GR8Steve" were also very good . I just need to make a quick decision. It's great to come to this forum and get such wothwhile and thoughtful help.
Al