So I've decided that the most painless way of doing video work involves me purchasing a digital camcorder.

The hitch is I want it to have Firewire output, so that it will work seamlessly with my video software and hardware (Apple). I tried using a dvd-camcorder at work over USB, but that only support the still images export - nasty cheap camera.

The current crop of Sony stuff I thought would surely have FW/i.Link, doesn't.......

Suggestions needed badly and urgently.

Requirement is Firewire / i.Link / IEE1394 OUTPUT.

Price limit - consumer level (sub £400 really preferred)

I got a JVC one - can't remember the model from pixmania for around £300 that is firewired up.

Their stuff is cheap because it comes from france but the net is great for getting the manuals.

Based on your suggestion, I've been looking at a JVC jobbie this afternoon too....GZ MG155.....£300.....seems a pretty good deal. I don't need all this HD nonsense, just something that will do firewire for the Mac input, so this looks about right.

Thanks for the hint.

One recommendation I'd make is to go to somewhere like Currys/Comet/Jessops and have a play with the models you're interested in. (Twice!) I've sold myself on Canon gear based on the spec on paper and then tried them out in the shop and hated them and had to go back to the drawing board.

I bought my mini-DV camcorder a few years ago now and opted for a Sony TRV-33 (Sony DCR-TRV33 Camcorder Review - Sony MiniDV Camcorders) because it felt so much better made and much nicer to hold than the competition. Be aware though that most come with the smallest battery they can get away with so you might want to budget for a bigger one of those and also very few of them come with a bag/case of any sort.

I think in terms of quality, there won't be much to chose between the brands for a given price range.

Chris

Also be aware that not all camcorders confirm to standards. Some come with their own drivers. Obviously avoid these like the plague. There should be a list somewhere on the Apple site of stuff that will work with standard FireWire.