Sony DCR-HC26 MiniDV Digital Camcorder

[blang]

All the reviews that I have read said that this camcorder is a disappointment. It is the right size and price for us but the bad reviews scare me. Is it worth buying this camcorder or waiting another year or so until we can afford something much better?

Right now we have an older Sony with 25x zoom which does pretty well in low light. Does anyone have experience with this camera?

[Damion Chaplin]

I'd say if you're at least 80% happy with your current camera, save your money until you can afford a mid-level camera. I've always found buying the bargain-basement model leaves me wanting...

[mario]

Consider the HC-46. If it´s too expensive for you (it´s not cheap at all) then wait with your current one. May I suggest a DVD model?

[blang]

The hc-46 only has 12 optical zoom. We need at least 20x. Although I really want a smaller camcorder, I think we are going to wait.

The problem with the dvd's is that it only lasts 20-30 minutes, depending on quality. That seems like it would be a pain in the neck to constantly monitor and change out dvd's. I could live with 60 minutes but less, I don't think I would be happy with.

[mario]

at low quality, which it´s not so bad at all, a dvd last 60 minutes. And sony high end models have only 12x and not 20x optical zoom, don´t ask me why. Top of the line models get only 10x. I asked a salesmen, and he told me that on higher res models so much optical zoom is not needed. Not sure about that.

[blang]

I don't understand that either. However, we tape our kids at tournaments/meets and we could not sit close enough to get a good picture with 10x or 12x.

[moorashj]

I can get it from Office Depot for 179...anyone have any ideas...is it decent enough for an everyday camcorder..thanks