On Tue, 17 Jun 2003 20:34:49 +0100, Peter <nospam@no-spam.nospam.co.uk> wrote:

>I am sorry if this is not an appropriate newsgroup for this type of

>question, but I searched the entire 40k+ groups on my list and this is

>the best I found.

>

>Basically I would like to decide between a Sony TRV950, the Panasonic

>one (953) and one or two others. I have a PC100 now; just about OK if

>one has good lighting (outdoors) but it has too many artefacts and

>poor contrast range. I had a TRV900 on loan for a couple of months and

>it was a lot better, especially for indoor daylight use. I believe the

>now-ancient TRV900 is still better than just about any single-CCD cam

>I have recently used.

>

>I have found some www reviews but none of them are very objectively

>done; just impressions of somebody playing with it.

>

>Also I need *manual* audio level control with a displayed level meter

>of some sort.

>

>I am in the UK but might buy the camera in the USA, so one has the

>PAL/NTSC issues. I believe the PC100 is dual standard (or maybe only

>on playback?) and this would be a great way to get caught out. The

>Sony price in the USA is 35% lower than UK for the same product...

Try these sites (the Haru is especially useful

for current-model comparisons).

www.David-Ruether-Photography.com/vid_pict_characts.htm

www.David-Ruether-Photography.com/camcorder-comparison.htm

www.David-Ruether-Photography.com/sony_dcr-vx2000.htm

www.David-Ruether-Photography.com/camcorder--comparison.htm

http://www4.big.or.jp/~a_haru/index.html

http://www4.big.or.jp/~a_haru/exknow2002au

www.bealecorner.com

www.adamwilt.com

*In general*, 3-CCD cameras can provide lower

contrast, and also better handling of highlights

and shadows - and a sharper image with less

motion-artifacting, greater low-light range,

and better color. Among older 3-CCD cameras, I

recommend the VX1000, TRV900, and for good light

only (with some control quirks and useless

stabilizer), the AG-EZ30U/950; among current

cameras, look at the Sony VX2000, TRV950 (good

light only), Panasonic PDX100, Canon GL2, and

JVC GY-DV300. These all also provide most manual

controls of interest. Bhphotovideo.com sells

PAL versions, and it is a good dealer.