I'm looking for a cheap professional camcorder Any ideas?

Question

I'm lookin at getting the Sony Hdr-FX1.I've heard alot of good reviews about it.Does anyone have any other advice or any other suggestions.

Answer 1

Canon XL2.  This is pretty much the industry standard for personal professional cameras.  Kind of up there in price but Canon makes a smaller GL2 for less, still quality material.

Answer 2

It's not the best choice for professional video work, try the JVC GY-HD110U

Answer 3

I would second the answer about the JVC GYHD110..or Gy-HD111e that we have in Europe. Not only will you shoot good quailty HD but it also shoots some of the best SD DV I've ever seen. I have two of them here as well as Canon Xl1s and XL2. However, the bang for buck goes to JVC. There's a much longer learning curve to the JVC for the novice over the Canon but it's worth it. The JVC certainly is a better buy than the Sony and I tested both of them extensively before committing to the JVC. HD will always be a problem with low light on any HD cam. The thing about the JVC because it shoots in 720p 25 (EU) is that you'll need to use it like a film camera with your speed of pans etc. There's also the old question of cool too..which is not a consideration in my case. If you put the Sony and JVC on the street, people will be more likely to get out of your shot with the JVC as it's bigger and looks more professional. However if you're going in to film in anywhere that's sensitive to publicity with the JVC you're more likely to be asked for a press pass. Whereas with the Sony you could claim it's a hobby camera maybe. If you do learn to drive the JVC it will stand you in good stead if you end up in the higher end of broadcast cameras later.

I hope this helps

Best of luck