JVC GR-D270 Mini DV Camcorder, any good?

[StellerCrys]

I've been looking for a good camcorder, but I don't have much experience or knowledge about them. Does anyone know anything about this camera? (JVC GR-D270 Mini DV Camcorder)
And if someone could explain to me what exactly does "mini DV" mean?
I'm just looking for a camcorder that isn't tooooo expensive, preferably $600 and lower (canadian dollars).
I want one with good, clear pictures, to take video and stills, and that can be used at night also (which this one seems to do).
Any help is appreciated, thanks!
StellerCrys

[Stephen]

well, Mini DV stands for Minature Digital Video... which means it's a small digital camera... next to those old huge big big old digital cameras... I'm also looking for a good camera, but I've had better expierence with the Canon ZRs... like the ZR100 for example... btw, do you have like editing software like, Final Cut Pro, or if you're on a mac, iMovie, because DV cameras are ideal for stuff like that. Anyway, the ZR100s are good cameras.


http://reviews.cnet.com/Canon_ZR100/4505-5_7-31263285.html?subj=Canon+ZR100&part=rss

[Executioner]

I suggest not getting anything with JVC written on it. I have had nothing but trouble with their cameras and decks, and so has the companies I have worked for. They don't last long and they start to put digital hits on your tape causing your audio and video to unsync by half a frame. Thats right, half a frame. It sucks when you have a 2 cam or more shoot and the audio doesn't line up. It causes a little reverb. The decks don't like to recognize other tape stock brands, but yet they say it should.No matter what we did to the cameras and decks, be it cleaning them or adjusting them, they still did it. Sony makes really good cameras for video. Also Sony's Mini DV Excellence tapes are great tapes. Also Final Cut Pro is only for Mac (love that program).

[StellerCrys]

Thanks for your replies, I'll take your advice about the JVC's. I heard sony was a good brand anyways. Anhy suggestions for a Sony cam? (that can take still pics, work in dark light, has sound, and good quality picture)
Thanks again!

[Executioner]

Prosumer or consumer? I have only delt with prosumer cameras. If you got the money or are willing to pay for it, I suggest the Sony VX-2100 (around $2,300) or the Sony PD170 (around $3,000). Or you can go ebay and get the VX-2000 for around $1,000 or less, of course you could also look up the other ones to and get them used for cheaper. They are very light cameras that do take stills. The PD170 is very good in low light and the color is awsome, plus it has 2 XLR inputs on it where the VX-2000 doesn't. B&H is pretty reasonable on their prices. Anyway, I hope that helps you out a little.