Recommendation for a consumer-quality HD Camcorder
 

The Canon ZR 40 that I have used for years as an SD play deck has just died. Time to replace it, and I figure an HD-capable unit is the way to go. I need a camcorder that:
1. is inexpensive.
2. can play miniDV tapes in both HD and SD.
3. accomodates filters.
4. allows DV output to a computer.

Canon's HV 20 ($1,000) seems like a good choice, but can anyone recommend an alternative?

Thanks,

Steve Siegel,
Miami

Hi Steve......
 

The Canon HV20 it is then. Bang for buck, can't beat it.

CS

I like the sony's but...
 

The Canon is a nice unit, but I am pretty pleased with the Sony.
However, if you can reuse batteries, etc, that would swing it to Canon camp, for sure.

High Definition Handycam Camcorder HDR-CX7

Very New. take a look

http://b2b.sony.com/Solutions/product/HDR-CX7

Definately the HV20....Hands Down.

Maybe you need to pay attention to what Steve is asking for like "needs to play mini dv tapes." The HDR-CX7 records to tapeless media; there is no deck on the unit to play back SD or HDV mini dv tapes. Plus, the HDR-CX7 does not have ILINK.

If you don't need a LANC remote interface (remote control of zoom, focus and record with an external controlling device) which is nice for jib and tripod use, then I would get the HV20. However, if you need LANC remote interface, then the Sony HC7 is the camera you want to get. I ended up with the HC7 after being totally disappointed that the HV20 didn't have LANC. Unfortunately, that was the deal breaker for me.

Steve,

This is pretty much a no brainer. HV20 all the way...