Camera suggestions please

[Chris Hipp]

I need some help in finding a decent video camera to use underwater for $1000 or less. I would prefer MiniDV, but all recommendations are welcome. Most of the video I would be shooting would be in places like Cozumel, fiji, Bahamas, etc.

I honestly don't know what to look for in a camcorder so any help is greatly appreciated.

 

[Mike Veitch]

see if you can find a used Sony TRV950, that would be a great camera to start out with

 

[Mafiaman]

Sony hdr-hd1, it's HiDef.
If your looking to get camera and housing for 1K$ that will be difficult.

 

[ronrosa]

I'm selling my mini-dv setup. Have you seen my post in the marketplace section ?

Here is a link.

http://www.scubaboard.com/showthread.php?t=167000

I know I must sound like a used car salesman, but I encourage you to do some research before laying out $1,000 a new mini-dv camcorder. For a little more you can get a very good used camcorder and housing setup.

My Sony TRV900 and Gates housing are both highly regarded as quality products. I've never had a leak and use the setup once or twice a year while on vacation.

I just bought a $3000 FX7 high definition camcorder, so I no longer need my mini-dv setup.

 

[Mike Veitch]

yep, the 900 is a great camera

 

[Diver Mike]

You can usually find a used TRV900 or TRV 950 for around 3 to4 hundred dollars. Look into the Equinox housing, around 700. So for around 1000-1100 you can have the a 3 CCD prosumer camcorder and a new housing.

You will stil need lights, but that is the case with all housings.

Mike...

 

[Chris Hipp]

Thanks for the info guys. I am looking at $1k max for the camera itself, not including housing. So, maybe 1500-2000 for both.

 

[HiDefPics]

In that case, take a look at the Sony HC3. For just a bit over your budget you can get the camcorder & the Ikelite housing. This would put you into higher quality HDV video, which is becoming more & more common. Check out this link at B&H - http://tinyurl.com/yfrhko

 

[ronrosa]

In another post a member "chuck e" discusses his head to head underwater comparison of his wife's HC3 against his TRV950. Definitely worth the read.

http://www.scubaboard.com/showthread.php?t=164595

 

[limeyx]

In that case, take a look at the Sony HC3. For just a bit over your budget you can get the camcorder & the Ikelite housing. This would put you into higher quality HDV video, which is becoming more & more common. Check out this link at B&H - http://tinyurl.com/yfrhko

Could also get the Light and Motion Stingray sport? (aka Top Dawg?) housing for that camera for I think $800 or so. I'd take that any day over an Ikelite.