OK, haven't had much or anything to do with video cameras for the past 12 years. The last time I was involved with video, Hi-8 was considered acceptable quality for broadcast use and I was using an linear editing console.
I'm trying to decide between these two miniDV (tape) Standard Definition cameras.
I want to get one for a holiday in the Pacific in two weeks.
I don't want to invest too much as HDV will be the norm soon. Decided against DVD and HDD cameras as for the same price, I get better quality with tape. Plus I probably won't do enough video to justify an expensive camcorder. It is really for just for this one holiday.
I've narrowed the choice to these two 1 megapixel cameras.
The Sony DCRHC48 Handycam.
http://www.sonystyle.com.sg/sonysty...evel2=2041&Level3=4128&MaterialNumber=2032403
The JVC GR-D650
http://www.jvc-asia.com/sg/products/camdetails.asp?id=148
Review of the D650
http://reviews.cnet.com/JVC_GR_D650/4507-6500_7-31833040.html?tag=sub
The Sony is a brand new model having just been introduced but it has a 1/6inch CCD, 25x optical zoom, f1.8 lens CZ lens, 2.7 inch LCD screen and uses memory sticks.
The JVC was introduced a year ago and has a 1/5inch CCD, 15x optical zoom, a bright f1.2 Aspherical lens, a built-in LED light, a 2.5 inch LCD screen, uses SD cards (I've got a 1Gb SD sitting around) and a SVHS connector in the rear. Made in Malaysia (not that it really matters) but the it has a cheap feel about it.
The JVC is currently $70 cheaper than the Sony bec it is a runout model.
I know the differences are probably much of a muchness and I guess, logic is telling me that the JVC is the better buy but I would like some alternative views just in case.
So if anyone has anything to add I'd appreciate it.
Thanks

I'm trying to decide between these two miniDV (tape) Standard Definition cameras.
I want to get one for a holiday in the Pacific in two weeks.
I don't want to invest too much as HDV will be the norm soon. Decided against DVD and HDD cameras as for the same price, I get better quality with tape. Plus I probably won't do enough video to justify an expensive camcorder. It is really for just for this one holiday.
I've narrowed the choice to these two 1 megapixel cameras.
The Sony DCRHC48 Handycam.
http://www.sonystyle.com.sg/sonysty...evel2=2041&Level3=4128&MaterialNumber=2032403
The JVC GR-D650
http://www.jvc-asia.com/sg/products/camdetails.asp?id=148
Review of the D650
http://reviews.cnet.com/JVC_GR_D650/4507-6500_7-31833040.html?tag=sub
The Sony is a brand new model having just been introduced but it has a 1/6inch CCD, 25x optical zoom, f1.8 lens CZ lens, 2.7 inch LCD screen and uses memory sticks.
The JVC was introduced a year ago and has a 1/5inch CCD, 15x optical zoom, a bright f1.2 Aspherical lens, a built-in LED light, a 2.5 inch LCD screen, uses SD cards (I've got a 1Gb SD sitting around) and a SVHS connector in the rear. Made in Malaysia (not that it really matters) but the it has a cheap feel about it.
The JVC is currently $70 cheaper than the Sony bec it is a runout model.
I know the differences are probably much of a muchness and I guess, logic is telling me that the JVC is the better buy but I would like some alternative views just in case.
So if anyone has anything to add I'd appreciate it.
Thanks