Should I get this for the price? I'm looking for a camcorder that I can use to record my trips with my parents. I like to find one under $100 if possible. Video quality isn't a need for me. Just as long as it's clear enough that I can see things I'm pointing it at.This thing has a digital camera built in, which I like. But it doesn't explain how long you can record standard.I just wanna know if this would be a smart buy for home use. Not something to put on YouTube. Should I get this for the price? I'm looking for a camcorder that I can use to record my trips with my parents. I like to find one under $100 if possible. Video quality isn't a need for me.... » Read More Should I get this for the price? I'm looking for a camcorder that I can use to record my trips with my parents. I like to find one under $100 if possible. Video quality isn't a need for me. Just as long as it's clear enough that I can see things I'm pointing it at.This thing has a digital camera built in, which I like. But it doesn't explain how long you can record standard.I just wanna know if this would be a smart buy for home use. Not something to put on YouTube. « Show Less
473317
I just got this camera, and I'm surprised by how good it is for the price (I paid $69.99 on sale). The better memory cards will let you use this for about a couple of hours of video I think. It's really easy to use too, and as other people have pointed out - a great starter camera.
1051671
Yes, the Zoom Q2HD is very good for recording live performances. I frequently use it to record my band, it has an auto-gain feature that's very convenient for regulating the input volume to avoid distortion. As most reviews state, the video is not great but not bad, and if you need good audio and can live with so-so video then this is the best option. It has different light and audio settings depending on the environment you're recording in and it's pretty flexible. Spend the extra money for the AC adapter though, because it destroys AA batteries...you'll only get about 30 minutes of recording time out of 2 new batteries. Also the tripod that comes with the AC adapter is only about 6 inches high, good for setting on a table but you'll need to get some kind of other stand if you want it 3 feet off the ground (I use a music stand). My biggest gripe besides the way it kills batteries would be the fact that the buttons are pretty small and when you're on the menu screen it's easy to accidently select the wrong function. The AC adapter/triopod package includes an HDMI and a USB adapter, so you can connect the HDMI adapter to an HD tv's input and play videos straight from the recorder to the TV. To save your files you FIRST have to use the menu to select the 'USB' option, THEN you connect the USB adapter to the Q2HD and to a computer. This is actually another gripe that I have with the design, because even though the Q2 AC adapter uses a USB connection to power it, it doesn't seem to use phantom power from the computer, so you need to have batteries in it prior to using the menu to select the 'USB' option. Bottom line, the main reason to get this would be for the outstanding audio recording. If you don't really care about getting good quality audio there are probably better video cameras available for the price.
470085
for video recording, i lasted as much as i needed. Longest i used it for was close to 5 min using a class 10 32gb card. I think it records plenty though so it should be good for +5min vids. I did have my battery drained much faster too so keep that in mind. Other than that, yea it's pretty good cam for the price. I getting me a 2nd one which the first one i just had a little scratch on the lens. Hopefully that was helpful! :D
474599
I have a question about this also...Is this a one-time use camcorder or can it be re-used?I am thinking the latter, just by virrtue of the selling price...Many thanks in advance!
809058
IMHO, it would be overkill for that and there are much cheaper, easier microscopes in the $50-70 range that would be more suited to that. You don't mention the age of the kids but this might be a bit expensive and fragile for many 'kids.' Also, are you just wanting optics or the capability to digitally record? For the recording function, this scope will be needing a PC of course with a USB function but also wall current, AC. I am actually in the process of getting one of those little Tasco (or like product) USB microscopes I mentioned for some kids I know to play with. Finally, I just love Amazon reviews for learning about products the 'easy' and cheap way. IMHO, it would be overkill for that and there are much cheaper, easier microscopes in the $50-70 range that would be more suited to that. You don't mention the age of the kids but this might be a bit expensive and fragile for many 'kids.' Also, are you just wanting optics or the capability to digitally record? For the recording function, this scope will be needing a PC of course with a USB function but also wall current, AC. I am actually in the process of getting one of those little Tasco (or like product) USB microscopes I mentioned for some kids I know to play with. Finally, I just love... » Read More IMHO, it would be overkill for that and there are much cheaper, easier microscopes in the $50-70 range that would be more suited to that. You don't mention the age of the kids but this might be a bit expensive and fragile for many 'kids.' Also, are you just wanting optics or the capability to digitally record? For the recording function, this scope will be needing a PC of course with a USB function but also wall current, AC. I am actually in the process of getting one of those little Tasco (or like product) USB microscopes I mentioned for some kids I know to play with. Finally, I just love Amazon reviews for learning about products the 'easy' and cheap way. « Show Less
124091
Well, I just bought the video camera today online, and I have heard about Cyberlink Power Director 7 being really good. It's about $60 but some of the videos I researched and saw on YouTube turned out really really good, in High Quality. Maybe someone else has some recommendations too.
611818
this camera is great for a lightweight professional kit, as a compliment to a more expensive camera or as a tool for the independent blogger. However, if you're looking to start making videos, there are plenty of cheaper options. Get a decent (sub$400) canon or sony consumer camcorder, and invest instead in stuff like lighting, a tripod, and a field recorder like the zoom h4n if you want better audio. Spend your savings on something like Lynda.com (tutorials) and a subscription to Adobe CC (creative software suite) to teach you everything you need to do to make your videos look their best.
798483
It is good enough for casual recording and youtube quality. If you want better quality, you need to consider Vado HD which is more expensive.
1770761
Thanks again david.I remember reading some of the flash based camcorders record on .MOD files, which are somewhat hard to work with.This will be my first camcorder purchase in a long while (my last was a sony digital-8...), so your advice is well needed and appreciated.
2126550
Don't use it so much for videos but I recently went to a car show and the battery went dead after 147 pictures. Seems like the battery used to last longer [about 1 yr. old] so I may get a spare, but it's great for the price and I was going to spend $750 to $800 , glad I got this one . Good luck.
225447
For $399! It will definitely be brand spanking new! But check around Amazon venders. I've seen it for less than $399. It does come with its own recording software and can be integrated with other third party software! Great product!
1166197
I see that the VM pro is still available for $229 so I don't understand what you're talking about. Also, if you're interested in a video mic for your camcorder or DSLR camera, then you might consider the reasonably priced Videomic for $149. Seems like a good deal to me.
1844762
I would agree with everyone and mine worked perfect for snorkeling, hiking/biking and just as a regular camcorder. Video quality is very good.Caveats:- sound is not too great (if it's important)- I would add "wasabi" set of 2 batteries and charger, I bought it here at Amazon- Mounting options: instead check mounts for iON camera's carried by Walmart, they seem to fit by thread and look better than JVC provides. I did not use them yet but want to check.
809059
IMHO, it would be overkill for that and there are much cheaper, easier microscopes in the $50-70 range that would be more suited to that. You don't mention the age of the kids but this might be a bit expensive and fragile for many 'kids.' Also, are you just wanting optics or the capability to digitally record? For the recording function, this scope will be needing a PC of course with a USB function but also wall current, AC. I am actually in the process of getting one of those little Tasco (or like product) USB microscopes I mentioned for some kids I know to play with. Finally, I just love Amazon reviews for learning about products the 'easy' and cheap way.
663620
The down side to Sony is that it takes proprietary software (special only to Sony). Playmemories is correct for this camcorder. The files ALWAYS have to go through software to change it to a mode that is viewable. The good thing about Sony is that it has a "steady cam" feature that helps remove the jitter from mild shaking. I imagine that would be helpful for your dad. I am facing replacing my HDR CX 100 because it is wearing out but will go with the C x240 (newer model of 100). The only mistake you might have made is the CX240 is cheaper now than the $250 I have seen for the CX100.
1453947
Hi Sharon, I've only recorded a couple videos right after I received the camera and those were only for testing the record function. I didn't record any audio but I do remember some slight wind noise. I just did a quick test recording the tv sound and it was ok. If you decide to purchase the camera, keep in mind the microphone is located on top close to where you would hold it with your left hand. Also, it is not stereo. The camera has served my needs and I've been very pleased with it. Photos are not DSLR quality but pretty good nonetheless. Wi-fi backup and sending via email on my home network work great. Sorry I don't have a better reply regarding the sound quality. Hi Sharon, I've only recorded a couple videos right after I received the camera and those were only for testing the record function. I didn't record any audio but I do remember some slight wind noise. I just did a quick test recording the tv sound and it was ok. If you decide to purchase the camera, keep in mind the microphone is located on top close to where you would hold it with your left hand. Also, it is not stereo. The camera has served my needs and I've been very pleased with it. Photos are not DSLR quality but pretty good nonetheless. Wi-fi backup and sending via email on my home... » Read More Hi Sharon, I've only recorded a couple videos right after I received the camera and those were only for testing the record function. I didn't record any audio but I do remember some slight wind noise. I just did a quick test recording the tv sound and it was ok. If you decide to purchase the camera, keep in mind the microphone is located on top close to where you would hold it with your left hand. Also, it is not stereo. The camera has served my needs and I've been very pleased with it. Photos are not DSLR quality but pretty good nonetheless. Wi-fi backup and sending via email on my home network work great. Sorry I don't have a better reply regarding the sound quality. « Show Less
1895962
Thanks. Seems like each of these makes has its quirks. I just gave away on old (4 years) Toshiba DVD recorder that did OK for its time, but the menus were very unintuitive, and the manual was in broken english. I guess I could always pick up a D-R410 at Fry's and if I don't like it, return for the Panny when it's in stock. Fry's also has a Sony RDR-GX360 for the same price as the Panasonic, and it seems to have the same ins/outs and upconversion, but I can only find one user review out there and it was bad. I hear that Sonys are picky about the DVD brand you use, plus they're the "source" for the industry restrictions on recording HD, so I don't want to support them. Thanks. Seems like each of these makes has its quirks. I just gave away on old (4 years) Toshiba DVD recorder that did OK for its time, but the menus were very unintuitive, and the manual was in broken english. I guess I could always pick up a D-R410 at Fry's and if I don't like it, return for the Panny when it's in stock. Fry's also has a Sony RDR-GX360 for the same price as the Panasonic, and it seems to have the same ins/outs and upconversion, but I can only find one user review out there and it was bad. I hear that Sonys are picky about the DVD brand you use, plus they're the... » Read More Thanks. Seems like each of these makes has its quirks. I just gave away on old (4 years) Toshiba DVD recorder that did OK for its time, but the menus were very unintuitive, and the manual was in broken english. I guess I could always pick up a D-R410 at Fry's and if I don't like it, return for the Panny when it's in stock. Fry's also has a Sony RDR-GX360 for the same price as the Panasonic, and it seems to have the same ins/outs and upconversion, but I can only find one user review out there and it was bad. I hear that Sonys are picky about the DVD brand you use, plus they're the "source" for the industry restrictions on recording HD, so I don't want to support them. « Show Less