Advice needed on a camcorder

[Khephra]

I'm looking to get something in the $400-700 range...maybe even a bit higher than that.

What I'm looking for is the best camcorder for filming speeches and political rallies.

[thebigidea]

1. get anything with 3 chip CCD, the much better looking color is worth it

actual "flesh color" is so much nicer than some hideous blueish smear.

if you're on a budget, the old Sony Trv-900 is small and can be had for a steal on ebay or from those Sony shops...

the VX1000/2000 line is good too...

lately I've been shooting lots on a newish panasonic that has that progressive scan stuff, very nice for a filmlike effect.

[Khephra]

2. Size doesn't really matter

Actually, since I learned my basics on an old SLR, I like the larger models. There's just something about having a camera that actually feels like one instead of feeling like a pocketbook.

[BigDaddyLove]

4. The Sony VX1000 is an excellent camera........

and can probably be had for somewhere in your price range. Though you have to keep in mind how (if at all) you plan to edit the stuff you shoot. Getting a MiniDV camera makes the process easier and relatively cheap, as there is so much out there geared toward DV these days.

[BigDaddyLove]

3. How do you like the DVX100?

If been seriously considering getting one.

[thebigidea]

6. faaaaaaaaaantastic, the 24P stuff is really useful

great lens, good XLR/audio stuff, good manual controls, all around swell.

[BigDaddyLove]

8. Does the 24p really look and/or feel much different?

Renting one for a test drive is on my list of things to do, but I just haven't had the opportunity yet....not to mention the $175.00 per day rental fee.

[cprise]

7. Hmmm, the last time I tried to 'steal' a TRV-900 on ebay

...I couldn't.

But that was some time ago. I sprung for a VX-2000 at $1900 instead.

[cprise]

5. Sony TRV-22

http://reviews.cnet.com/Sony_DCR_TRV22/4505-6500_7-20791504.html?tag=pdtl-list

Portability, precision optics and CCD, good light sensitivity.

Also get a sturdy yet tall Bogen / Manfrotto type tripod. You will need it for getting over people's heads without having your footage look you were bouncing around in a popcorn popper.