Hitachi DZ-MV350ENone of the analogue models makes it as a Best Buy. Unless you want to buy one of the cheaper camcorders on the market, or you'd prefer not to go digital, we recommend that you opt for a digital camcorder as they offer better overall picture quality.
Where possible we tested camcorders priced at £400 or less. However, in order to include a good range of models in the test, we also tried out a DVD camcorder, the Hitachi DZ-MV350E, that cost a bit more than the rest. At around £620 from independents or £594 from
www.unbeatable.co.uk it was the most expensive model in our tests but did achieve the highest total test score. It performed well when it came to video image quality, autofocusing and battery life, but one drawback is that you can record at the best quality setting for only 18 minutes before having to change or turn over the disc that you're recording on. This camcorder's indoor film quality was good, as was its ability to autofocus.
Sony DCR-TRV245Considering its price, we were pleased to find that one of the cheaper digitals on test, the Sony DCR-TRV245 was a clear Best Buy, costing £380 from Argos or £284 from
www.unbeatable.co.uk As with the other Best Buys, it produced above average video quality. Its image stabiliser worked well and battery life was good. It didn't pick up much operating noise through its microphone. Its still picture quality wasn't brilliant but, like the Hitachi, it was better than the rest on test.
Canon MV600iThe Canon MV600i produced good image quality and scored well overall, but was let down its battery life. It costs £500 from Jessops or £385 from
www.unbeatable.co.uk. The picture quality was above average, and its sound quality was very good, too, when used with an external mic. It's not good for taking stills.
A little out dated Nov 2003 but hope it helps