I need help in buying a video camera...?

Question

I want it to be under $400. I am using it to record a 3 day Metal Fest. So everything will be an outside shot. I need it to be able to decently pick up live music (external mic is fine). I am leaning towards a dv or hard drive storage. I have been researching for weeks and havent been able to decide. Any type of help would be appreciated!!!!!

Answer 1

The only way this will work is if you have manual audio control. Metal music will overdrive the built-in automatic audio leveling on pretty much any camcorder making the audio clip and sound really muddy. There are camcorders with external mic jacks and no manual audio control - this will not work.

The cheapest camcorders with manual audio control - of which I am aware - are the Canon HV20, HV30, Sony HDR-HC7 and HC9. They all have 1/8" (3.5mm) external mic jacks, too.

Answer 2

You may try Consumer Reports.org or http://www.camcorderinfo.com/ratings.php for help.  

Your price range limits what's available to you.  However, I recommend looking into used camcorders.  

It really all depends on what you intend to do with your video once it's been shot.  You may also want to consider an editing software, such as Adobe Premiere, Sony Vegas, Ulead, etc...Good luck!

Answer 3

http://www.jr.com/JRProductPage.process?...

At the above link, there is a decent $200 camcorder called the Canon ZR850.  If you get the time, I recommend at least checking the camcorder out.

Answer 4

http://www.YouriPodTouch4free.com/index....