HP Pavilion dm4-3000 Beats Audio notebook 
RRP: $999.00
RRP: $999.00
Thu, 25/06/2009 - 12:23
Looking to buy a Digital Video Camera - HD? And old VHS camera tapes...
Looking to buy a Digital Video Camera - HD? And old VHS camera tapes...
Hi,
I'm looking to buy a digital video camera and am confused about some aspects although I have read this site's guide. Can anyone help?
If I purchase a HD dv camera, will I be able to edit footage and play it easily? I have Windows Vista, a div x dvd player (not blu-ray).
Maybe it's better if I tell you what I want it for, what I have and you might be able to help me!
I have Windows vista, a HD tv (or HDMI?) and have been using the Windows Movie Maker (which I hope to continue using and don't want HD if it will affect this). I make videos in all types of places/lighting and then edit and upload to youtube for family/friends and also put onto dvd for play in my div x. Would like an external mic jack and low light option. I understand optical zoom is important, not digital zoom. I want to be able to spend hours filming without needing to recharge the battery. I'm expecting to pay between $1000-$1500.
Finally, I have old VHS camera tapes from my old Panasonic NV-VS7 that I want to get onto my computer, what would I need to do this?
Sorry about all the questions, I hope someone can help!! :-)
Re:
Hi there. Vista comes with the latest version of Windows Movie Maker, which is fully compatible with HD video. However, it all depends on what CPU and graphics card your PC is running. If your components are low-end, you may have trouble editing HD video.
Check your computer's Windows Experience Index base score, which can be found in the Control Panel. This will give you an idea of whether your computer can handle HD files or not. (The base score should be 4 or higher).
External microphones are usually only found on expensive camcorders - $1500 and up. If you're looking to pay only $1000, you may need to stick with in-built audio. As for battery life, you won't get multiple hours out of a single battery, regardless of which model you buy. You should probably factor the cost of an additional battery into your purchase.
Do you know what HD video format you want (i.e. - HD tape, memory cards, hard disk drive)? Let me know, and I'll make some recommendations.
Regarding old VHS tapes, you need an analog-to-digital video capturing device. Try this:
http://www.goodgearguide.com.au/review/digital_video/magix/rescue_your_v...
It's cheap and relatively straighforward to use.
Thanks so much for your help,
Thanks so much for your help, Chris. Using your advice I have now made my purchase - with an additional battery.
Thanks also for the review for Magix Rescue Your Videos. The only problem is, where to buy it? I have searched and the only place I can find to buy it in Australia is on Ebay - and it's actually from the UK. I'm happy to buy it on Ebay but would prefer to get it in Australia if I can...
Thanks again,
Helen
Hi Helen, I believe the Magix
Hi Helen, I believe the Magix Rescue Your Videos product was reviewed by one of our overseas correspondents. Subsequently, I'm not sure whether you can purchase it locally. Sorry I couldn't be of more help.
VHS to DVD
Thanks Chris.
For those who have the same problem I've been having with videos to DVD:
I went onto Dick Smith online and found a product called Video to DVD Maker by Kaiserbaas. It's essentially a USB port that you can connect to your analogue video camera or VCR by the yellow and white cables (not sure of their names!). Anyway, I have finally managed to get my videos onto my computer and then dvds.
Thank you for all your help. I'm relieved I've got all my problems sorted out now!