I need to buy a 3ccd camcorder quick

[J. Bernard Vallon]

My studio has a boat load of video jobs coming up this week, and we need another camera for backup and b roll. I thought about renting one, but to rent one for the week, we might as well buy one and sell it after the season. We don't need or want anything really nice and new, for these jobs 3 or 4 year old technology will do just fine.

My boss swears he has seen things like VX2100s or PD150s for sale at retail locations, like circuit city or best buy. I think he is crazy. Has anyone ever seen this?

[Jeff Kilgroe]

I don't know about the VX2100, but the PD150 has been long discontinued. You won't find either at the big chain stores. Although, my local Best Buy sometimes has an FX1 or some of the lower end "prosumer" HDV cams.

My recommendation would be to look for a used Sony HVR-A1u, now discontinued. It's the predecessor to the current HC3 and HC7 cameras, but IMO had a few nicer features. The A1 as XLR audio inputs and I've seen them sell pretty cheap. You're probably still thinking you just need a DV camera, but I have a hard time recommending such a thing to people these days when HDV is so cheap.

Look around for a Canon GL1 or GL2 -- I've seen new or near new sell for next to nothing.

I personally don't have anything to sell at the moment... Unless you want to buy my HVX. ;)

[Paul Hazlett]

I agree with AV,

the canon gl2 is still an nice looking budget cam. But also look at dvx100's

that would be a step up and give you a real good look for the money.

[Jeff Kilgroe]

Used DVX100s are still going for $1500+ though... I was thinking he was looking for something a bit cheaper. But can't go wrong with a DVX if you'll be shooting and editing DV.

...But for $1K budget or so, I'd take a serious look at the Canon HV20. Sure, it's compact and more of a palmcorder, but for a $1K HDV camera, it's amazing and I'd take it over most regular SD camcorders any day. ...Hmmm.

[martinnoweck]

For miniDV i would try to get a used DVX100, too.

Far better picture than Sony VX2100 or PD150.

Martin

[Ralph Oshiro]

Used DVX100s are still going for $1500+ though . . .
I'll sell you my DVX100 right now for that price.

[Ralph Oshiro]

Or my VX2000!