Sony DCR-HC21?

[GoBlue!]

Thinking about picking up a Sony DCR-HC21, primarily to be used for family event type shooting, but I know I'm going to want to throw it in a housing, too. Saving the pennies for U/W still photo, so the U/W videography is just going to be something I'll do occasionally for kicks & documenting a fun dive.

Any experience with this camcorder? Reasonable entry-level unit that'll give me some fun video?

Thanks,
Jim

EDIT: Ugh. Just read a few more reviews online, and this seems to be a very bare-bones camcorder....maybe TOO bare bones, even just for the amateur use it'll get from me. Other suggestions in the < $600 category?

 

[MoonWrasse]

You can get the basic Sony dcr-hc42 for under that. It's the big brother of the 21.
Note UW housing alone will run you more than your budget.

 

[GoBlue!]

I'm realistic when it comes to the price of the housing. I just can't rationalize spending > $1k on the camera alone right now.

Jim

 

[GoBlue!]

So we just went to Best Buy....any opinions on the Panasonic PV-GS150 (or the lesser PV-GS65)?

Does the 3 CCD make a significant U/W (or topside) difference?

Jim

 

[ronrosa]

So we just went to Best Buy....any opinions on the Panasonic PV-GS150 (or the lesser PV-GS65)?

Does the 3 CCD make a significant U/W (or topside) difference?

Jim

Before you buy your camcorder make sure you research the underwater housing options available.

Off the top of my head I can't think of any housings available for the Panasonic GS150.

Sony camcorders offer the most options for underwater video housings.

Yes, 3 ccd does make a difference, both topside and underwater. However, not everyone can see the difference. Even those who can, some don't feel it's worth the additional cost which is a big factor because you also have to buy a housing.

My recommendation would be to get a 1ccd Sony and an Ikelite housing. The Sony HC series 21/31/42 camcorders go for around $370-$530. The matching Ikelite housings are around $680.

So for around $1200 you get a brand new underwater digital video setup all set to go. Both the camcorder and housing are small making travel easy.