Recommendations for a HD camcorder within $2000 range

[kpchen]

Hey guys,

I'm totally new into this world of videography and I'm helping my friend to purchase a HD camcorder in the range of around SGD$2000 or less. I've browsed some of the threads here and I've picked up a few models like TM300, HV20/HV30, HF10, etc. My friend was initially interested in the Panasonic HDC-HS200, but I guess it there could have been a better choice? He's interested in shooting for events (including a few low-light ones), sports and short films once in a while. The videos are usually uploaded online and not really for TV purposes.

I think what we're looking for are:
1. Good video quality
2. Ease to edit (including time to transfer the file to PC)
3. Simple enough to bring around and shoot

Are there any recommendations? Thanks for the great help!

 

[sonyboy]

"Enjoy Long recording in a compact body"

XR100E with 4.0 mega pixel , 2.7 wide lcd , recording time 33 hours.
With 8gb memory stick , accessory kit , sony high grade wide lens and tripod and SDW course.
Memory storage : Hard disk
At $1,799

High definition, high in style

CX100E with 4.0 mega pixel , HD quality , 2.7 wide lcd , recording time 3 hours.
With 16GB memory stick , accessory kit , wide lens , digital photo frame , tripod and SDW course.
Memory storage : memory stick
At $1,399


At COMEX 2009!
Check them out!

 

[kpchen]

yeah i was in Comex today but the models listed weren't mentioned much in forums, so i'm pretty skeptical about their performance. i think my friend and i prefer something that users have grown to rave about. any other recommendations?

 

[Bamboopictures]

I think what we're looking for are:
1. Good video quality
2. Ease to edit (including time to transfer the file to PC)
3. Simple enough to bring around and shoot

Looks like you should not be shooting in HD if you want "Ease to edit". Any time you save in acquisition is quickly lost in transcoding, rendering and more rendering. Especially if the final product is just for online viewing. Stick to good ol DV. I think a 3CCD Sony VX2100 should be within your budget these days.