: Looking for A video camera that dont cost a arm and leg? #

CrimsonTalon

This cam i have found out is one that in my opinion is perfect for Investigations.It is a step up and then some from the SONY CCD-TRV138 that is in Part 1 of this topic. But it has more features then the CCD-TRV138 and one of them features is whats called (SteadyShot digital stabilization) which helps when walking as you investigate instead of a bouncing affect when played back the play back is smooth or (steady) which in turn allows for easier examination of footage of your investigation.

Sony Digital8 Handycam Camcorder with 2.5" SwivelScreen LCD Monitor

* 20x optical/990x digital zoom
* 2.5" SwivelScreen color LCD monitor rotates up to 270° for multiple viewing angles
* 1/6" CCD image sensor with 460K total pixels, 290K effective

Digital8 recording delivers 3 times the color bandwidth of VHS with less video noise and provides stunning video performance

Programmed AE (auto exposure) modes make it easy to adjust settings according to conditions; modes include portrait, beach & ski, sports lesson, landscape, spotlight and sun & moon

SteadyShot picture stabilization system uses motion sensors to detect and compensate for camera shake without compromising picture quality

NightShot Plus infrared system captures natural-looking video, even when shooting in low light; built-in LED light brightens video and reduces shadows without excessive power consumption

Manual focusing allows control in situations that aren't suited to autofocus, such as crowded environments

Fader effects add a professional look; fader effects include black, mosaic, white, monotone and stripe

Picture effect modes enhance creativity; effect modes include negative art, sepia, monotone, solarize, slim, stretch, pastel and mosaic

Add eye-catching titles to your video by selecting from 8 presets or customize 2 titles with up to 22 characters

End search feature automatically advances the videotape to the last 5 seconds of a recorded scene to prevent over-recording accidents

Easy Handycam button streamlines the filming process for beginners by locking out nonessential functions

Photo mode lets you store still images with 7 seconds of audio on a videotape

i.LINK DV (IEEE 1394) interface allows high-speed digital communication with other compatible IEEE 1394 devices; USB streaming function allows videoconferencing and more

Accessories:
AC-L15 power adapter/in-camera charger, NP-FM30 InfoLithium rechargeable battery, A/V cable, USB cable, lens cap, shoulder strap, CD-ROM with USB driver

this is for the beginner to the seasoned investigator. I have looked arounfd and found the price to be between ($284.99-$299.99). and for the features that come with this cam i feel and others also feel it is by far one of the best deals out there. Again you dont need to spend $400 or more for a awesome video cam.