Recommend Camcord for Rock Shows?

Question

Hi. I'm looking for a recommendation for a digital camcorder to record rocks shows at small venues.

My primary requirements are (1) that it can record well in low light and (2) can handle loud sound.

Secondary requirements are (1) that it is small (so I won't be hassled!) and (2) cheap.

No bells and whistles needed. I just want to capture some bands. A couple of years old is ok. I'll find it used on ebay.

Many thanks!

Tony

Answer 1

Start with the audio... In order to get good audio from a loud sound source is to control the sound getting into the camcorder. You need to have manual audio control.

The least expensive camcorders - of which I am aware - with manual audio control are the Canon HV20, HV30, Sony HDR-HC7 and HC9.

If you can't control the audio, the rest of the stuff does not matter. I would not recommend buying off eBay or used - but that is up to you.

There may be some older camcorders with manual audio control that will do what you need... in your search, be sure you specify manual audio control.