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Camcorder for videos...

Posted by Mark Werner on November 6, 2010 at 12:00pm in Cool gear discussion - that's not cigar box relate
So, I've been wanting to post some of my original songs for some time, but I don't really have any decent equipment.
I've tried my digital camera, which actually takes a fairly decent image....But no sound at all to speak of.  Certainly nothing you'd want on YouTube.
Likewise my wife's laptop, which has a very nice webcam that records good images and even has editing software built in.  (Windows 7)
Again... No sound.    The built-in mic is useless.

I tried to use the microphone/headset I use on my rig, and could not get it to work... The computer would not recognize it.

So... If I were going to go out and buy a video camera, what would I look at.  I'm thinking cheap here...

I know there are a number of mini digital video cameras available for well under 200 bucks.

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Replies

  • Hip Bone Bellaire November 7, 2010 at 8:24am
    this might be a surprise but I have a point an shoot with sterio mics.. the panasonic ZS3, they have a new model out that has more manual controls.. I have to say I have entered video contest using these on camera mics.... 10 megapixal and 12 optical zoom...I believe the new model is the ZS5 and also shoots 720 HD video.. I also shot a few concerts of Rorry Block check these out http://vimeo.com/12395011 along with a few other videos with a hammond...

    I got this camera because it's a pocket camera, real Glass lens and sterio mics.... Very nice... best buy has all these camceras
    http://www.amazon.com/Panasonic-DMC-ZS5-Digital-Stabilized-2-7-Inch...
  • Ben November 6, 2010 at 10:37pm
    I got the Flip Ultra and think its a great little camera. It is nice and compact and does a great job at normalizing the volume that the built in mic picks up. I've actually recorded marching bands, live bands, and CBGs all with nice quality. It doesn't have the capability of adding a mic, but I think the built in one is sufficient. I know you said that you already have video editing software but the Flip also has easy to use software that is great if you're just doing a quick edit (trimming beginning and end and adding a title). Even thought I use Corel Video Studio ProX3 for more in-depth projects, I still sometime use the Flip software. Check out my videos for some varied examples (the Humidor Troubadours were on a webcam).
  • JUJU November 6, 2010 at 8:33pm
    well if you thinking of maybe spending $200 why not have a look for a second hand one if you spend $200 on a second hand one it's more than likley to be better quality than spending $200 on a new one - try and get one that records sound in stereo and maybe one with a external Mic socket so you can plug a Good mic in if need be - just a idea !
  • Hip Bone Bellaire November 6, 2010 at 8:18pm
    Remember that the Kodak or any other camera will only have the camera mic as well...If you're doing this acoustic try recording in the bathroom... no kidding or a concrete stairwell ..we sometimes do this when recording Indian flutes...

    Here is a review http://www.digitaltrends.com/camcorder-reviews/kodak-zi8-review/
  • Mark Werner November 6, 2010 at 6:13pm
    I don't have a video camera, just a point-n-shoot that has video capability... And no mic input. I'll check out the Kodak!
  • Hip Bone Bellaire November 6, 2010 at 3:50pm
    The best one for under 200.00 bucks is the Kodak ZI8 and even has a built in mic input... BUT since you already have a camcorder see if it has a Mic input.... IF it does... THEN get one of these

    http://www.amazon.com/Rode-VideoMic-Directional-Condenser-Microphon...

    I've been in the business for 22 years and this mic is incredible... Plus you don't need High def video for people to hear good music... These mics can be found used for under 100.oo used... otherwise get the Kodak and get one of these and a bracket and have HD with HD Audio...
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