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Minidv Digital Camcorders
Minidv Digital Camcorders
The Rise of the Digital Camcorder
It was only a few years ago that the ownership of camcorders was limited only to those who could afford to cough up the hundreds of pounds required to buy one. Nowadays, you get one on your mobile phone.
The rise of the digital camcorder has been a surprisingly swift one that saw digital recording move from handheld devices created for the specific purpose of making videos to just another extra on your camera or mobile phone in barely any time at all. Of course, with the speed that today’s technological advancement moves at, where one product has barely hit the shelves before the newer, improved model is announced, is this really a surprise? Not exactly, but that doesn’t make looking back over the short life of the camcorder any less interesting.
The first camcorders worked using video tapes and were not only expensive, but bulky too. They were created during the 80s and operated by being held in the hands or screwed onto a tripod. However, it wasn’t long before one of technology’s favourite design enhancements – miniaturisation – took hold and camcorders began to shrink rapidly until they were as easy to carry around as a normal camera. Once the industry had began to boom in the 90s, camcorders switched from VHS recording to their own format, VHS-C, which unfortunately wasn’t too compatible with most VHS players. This created many problems when people found it difficult to find ways to play back their movies other than on the camcorder itself!
Following that, however, came the age of digital cameras. This new breed of camcorder used very small tapes called MiniDV tapes, which could be edited using a computer by connecting the camcorder via USB. This incredible technology changed the way camcorders were used and began to make way for people creating and editing their own videos and movies. The MiniDV used with digital camcorders was created in 1996, which just goes to show how recent the technology is.
Today, many camcorders still use MiniDVs as they are convenient and easy to use. That is, of course, if you’re using a proper camcorder as opposed to a camera with a recording function or even the video mode on your mobile phone! It’s amazing how many items of technology have a camcorder built in and it could well be the case that this is the way the industry will continue – but until then, while proper camcorders as the ones that fully do the job, a digital camcorder that functions as nothing other than a digital camcorder – well, perhaps with some photographic talent – is the way to go.
Canon GL1 MiniDV Digital Camcorder Review
 Canon GL2 MiniDV Digital Camcorder w/20x Optical Zoom List Price: DescriptionThe Canon GL2 (like its predecessor, the GL1, and its big brother, the XL1) is helping to blur the line between consumer and professional video equipment. This camcorder borrows most of those cameras’ professional-quality components and puts them into a more compact, affordable camera. Though it’s small enough to carry around and doesn’t cost much more than a top-of-the-line consumer camcorder, the GL2 produces such high-quality results that it could be used as a broadcast video camera. The Canon GL2 (like its predecessor, the GL1, and its big brother, the XL1) is helping to blur the line between consumer and professional video equipment. This camcorder borrows most of those cameras’ professional-quality components and puts them into a more compact, affordable camera. Though it’s small enough to carry around and doesn’t cost much more than a top-of-the-line consumer camcorder, the GL2 produces such high-quality results that it could be used as a broadcast video camera. The 3 CCD System The GL2 maximizes the capability of the DV format by using a 3 CCD (charge-coupled device) system with a separate CCD for each primary color (red, green, blue). A beam-splitting prism separates light passing through the lens into individual color components and each is sent to its own CCD. Compared to a single CCD, the 3 CCD system achieves outstanding detail with highly accurate color reproduction suitable for the demands of high-end video production – wide dynamic range, low color noise, high-contrast detail, natural color resolution and low-aliasing. The 3 CCD system also makes advanced Pixel Shift (for increased image quality) and Low Light Recording (for increased flexibility) possible. Professional L-Series Fluorite Lens Canon has satisfied the demands of experienced image makers for years through the power, design and quality of 35mm and broadcast TV lenses. Canon’s Professional L-Series lenses utilize Fluorite, a material which provides outstanding resolution, contrast, and color reproduction- especially in lightweight, high-magnification lenses. Incorporated into the lens on the GL2, Fluorite delivers the ultimate in clarity and image quality. The Fluorite element inside the lens defeats color aberration — the effect when the components of light stray from one another within a lens, causing a reduction in sharpness, contrast and color. The Fluorite lens precisely controls components of light providing an excellent balance of these three critical ingredients of picture quality. This is unobtainable with conventional optical glass. To further improve image detail, Canon has intentionally shifted the green CCD (which contains 60 percent of the picture detail) half a pixel horizontally and vertically. This shift allows more accurate interpolation, resulting in an image that Canon claims rivals those from cameras with 410,000-pixel CCDs. Each pixel is 72 square microns, which is about 1.5 times the size as those in competing camcorders. This increased size increases light sensitivity, allowing you to shoot in low-light situations. All this results in outstanding detail, with highly accurate color reproduction suitable for the demands of high-end video production. The GL2 also incorporates a 20x Professional L-Series fluorite optical zoom lens, which is equivalent to 39.5-790mm, as well as a 100x digital zoom. Audio The GL2’s omni-directional microphone is designed to deliver realistic stereo sound. Using the GL2’s advanced accessory shoe expands your audio options. Audio can be recorded in 16-bit mode on two channels on one track. Alternatively, audio can be record in 12-bit mode, where the audio track is divided into two, and two channels of audio are recorded onto one track, with the other left over for audio dubbing. Optical Image Stabilizer Canon’s superb optical stabilization system corrects camera shake instantly so even hand held shots, at full telephoto, and shots taken from a moving car, are smooth and steady. And since it is optical, there is no loss of image quality inevitable with electronic image stabilizers. It perfectly complements the high picture quality of the DV format. Digital Stills You can turn your GL2 into a still camera by switching to 1.7-megapixel photo mode and capturing high-resolution still images onto the camcorder’s MultiMedia/Secure Digital card. (One 8 MB Secure Digital card is included with the GL2.) The full-frame images are free from time-lag blur. A six-blade circular iris, as found on Canon’s top-of-the-line XL1 and XL1S models, is used for professional exposure control, helping to deliver stunning video and still photos. Inputs and Outputs The GL2 comes with the standard DV IEEE 1394 port (also known as FireWire) for a super-fast, lossless connection to a PC or other DV machines. You can also connect to your PC via a USB connection to download still photos. The GL2 is designed to handle two types of analog input and output: using audio/video cables (composite) or S-video. Both connections are on the camera back. More Features Three shooting modes: normal movie mode, digital photo mode, and the cinema-like frame movie mode. The Custom Key function lets you create and save your own custom settings so your common shooting modes can be readily duplicated. Digital effects are offered for a greater imaging variety, including fader, sepia, strobe motion, and black and white. With the Interval Timer function, you can record for a selected time with a selected interval–convenient for nature observations such as flowers or sunsets. MiniDV Format The Canon GL2 digital video camcorder uses the standard MiniDV cassette, producing the highest quality video possible from nonbroadcast equipment. The MiniDV format standard delivers more than 500 lines of horizontal resolution. And, because it records both video and audio as digital data, this information can be transferred–without any loss of picture or audio quality–to a computer for editing, then transferred back to DV tape, without a reduction in either picture or audio quality. Features
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Eligible for free shipping!  Canon ZR960 MiniDV Camcorder w/41x Advanced Zoom – 2009 MODEL Sale Price: $634.99 DescriptionSome events happen only once in a lifetime. A Features
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 Sony DVC-60 PRR/5 Premium Minidv Videocassette (5-Pack) List Price: DescriptionDesigned for high definition recording and playback, the premium digital video cassette (DVC) tapes are ideal for capturing the moment. Each tape provides 60 minutes of quality recording time. Features
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 Veho VCC-003-MUVI-BLK MUVI Micro digital camcorder for Action Sports/Surveillance (Includes 2Gb Memory) List Price: DescriptionMuvi is an ultra portable camcorder. At 2.17″ long the Muvi Micro Digital Camcorder is one of the smallest high resolution DV camcorders in the world. With a 2 Mega Pixel recording image, quality is not compromised. Features
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 Canon ZR45MC MiniDV Digital Camcorder with 2.5″ LCD, Digital Still Mode & MMC Card Slot List Price: DescriptionImproving on an original can be a daunting task. Canon has succeeded quite well, thank you. The ZR45MC is the successor to the ZR25MC. Canon increased the optical zoom to 18x–the digital now sits at 360x–and added an analog pass-through port. Although the ZR line featured analog-in for dubbing your movies to MiniDV, the new pass-through port allows you to go straight to the computer, eliminating a possibly cumbersome step. The ZR45MC also has a lot of the same features that made the original a lot of fun. A 2.5-inch LCD is swivel-mounted, permitting the shooter to use the camera at odd angles. Various digital effects and autoexposure modes help ensure your footage turns out well. The digital still mode makes a return, letting you capture 640 x 480 stills onto an included 8 MB MMC. Finally, Canon threw in a low-light color-shooting mode that makes the ZR45MC that much more attractive. Features
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 Sony DVC60PRL Mini DV Tape 60min Premium Data Cartridge 10 Packs List Price: DescriptionWatch your videos come alive when you record using SONY DVM60PRR Digital Video Cassettes. Each tape provides 60 minutes of premium quality digital video in a convenient pack. They feature metal evaporated tape, with a diamond-like carbon coating protective layer, which improves durability and helps prevent shedding and dropout. Start recording now with a SONY DVM60PRR 10 pack. Features
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 Sony DVC Cleaning Tape List Price: DescriptionPremium Series offers quality at an exceptional value. Digital HD Video Series is Sony’s best performing consumer DV cassette. Color Collection is a great way to differentiate and organize recordings. Features
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 Sony HVR-HD1000U Digital High Definition HDV Camcorder Pack Sale Price: $1,548.99 DescriptionThis Kit Includes: 1- Sony HVR-HD1000 Digital High Definition HDV Camcorder Brand New w/ Full Manufacturer’s Accessories 1- 1GB PRO DUO Memory Card 1- USB SD/HC Memory Card Reader 2- Rechargeable Lithium Ion Replacement Extended Life Batteries 1- Rapid Home and Car Charger 1- 3 Piece Filter Kit Includes: UV, Circular Polarizer and Flourescent Filter 1- Video Light 1- Soft carrying case 1- Wide Angle Macro Lens w/Pouch and Caps 1- 2x Telephoto Zoom Lens w/Pouch and Caps 1- Full Size Tripod w/Carry Bag 1- HDMI Cable 1- Pack of LCD Screen Protectors 1- Mini DV Head Cleaning Tapes 5- Pack of Mini DV Tapes 1- Lens/LCD Cleaning Kit 1- Mini Table Top Tripod More about this camera: The Sony HVR-HD1000 is an HDV camcorder specifically designed for videographers looking for an affordable shoulder-mounted camera. Ideal for event work and wedding videography, the camera is equipped with a ClearVid CMOS sensor, capable of recording 1080i high definition footage on a standard MiniDV tape! Additionally, the HVR-HD1000U comes fitted with a 10x Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar lens with Super SteadyShotTM image stabilization, ensuring operators get the perfect shot every time. These features make the HVR-HD1000U a welcome addition to the already proven line of Sony professional HDV products. Supplied Manufacturer Accessories in addition to mentioned above: Lens Hood , Lens Cap , Microphone, Windscreen ,Eye Cup ,NP-F570 Battery Pack ,AC Adapter ,Power Cord ,RCA A/V Cable , 1 Year Limited Warranty. Features
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 Canon XL1 Digital Camcorder Kit List Price: DescriptionThis mini DV offers great image quality and full digital power. The XL1’s design and manual controls offer the widest range of picture possibilities. In daylight or lowlight, if your subject is near or far, this cutting edge camera adjusts its settings to offer the finest in resolution, magnification and color reproduction. Additional features include top grip with recording controls, standard optical 16x zoom lens with SuperRange optical image stabilizer and 3 shooting modes. The Canon XL1 is helping to blur the line between consumer and professional video equipment. Though it’s small enough to carry around and doesn’t cost much more than a top-of-the-line consumer camcorder, the XL1 produces such high-quality results that many independent filmmakers have started using it instead of a traditional film camera. Great movies start with great CCD sensors, and Canon cuts no corners here. For the best possible picture quality, they use three separate 270,000 pixel CCDs (one for each primary color). To further improve image detail, Canon has intentionally shifted the green CCD half a pixel horizontally and vertically. This shift allows more accurate interpolation, resulting in an image that Canon claims rivals those from cameras with 410,000 pixel CCDs. Each pixel is 72 square microns, which is about 1.5 times the size as those in competing camcorders. This increased size increases light sensitivity, allowing you to shoot in lower-light situations. Ultimately, the larger pixel size results in an improvement of 4 dB in sensitivity. The XL1’s body is based on a magnesium-alloy frame for maximum durability. It ships with a 16x optical zoom lens with optical image stabilization, but is also compatible with other XL camcorder lenses. With an optional adapter, you can use Canon EF (EOS) still camera lenses–some of which also feature optical image stabilization. Though the camera’s built-in microphone has a great frequency response, the XL1 can also accept balanced microphones with the optional MA-100 microphone adapter/shoulder pad. The XL1 records digital audio, with two channels of 16 bit/48 KHz sound or 4 channels of 12 bit/32 KHz sound. The electronics of the XL1 have many advanced features, including a number of programmed AE modes, as well as both shutter and aperture priority modes. There are two different auto modes, one of which allows you to adjust any setting manually, if you want, and the other, which adjusts every setting automatically and lets you adjust nothing. A spotlight mode automatically compensates for difficulties when shooting a subject bathed in a spotlight. There are also three different shooting modes: Normal Movie, Digital Photo, and Frame Movie. Normal Movie mode is for any time you want to shoot video footage. Digital photo mode records a still image for six seconds on the mini DV tape and also captures any audio, such as a commentary. The Frame Movie Mode records 30 noninterlaced still images per second, instead of capturing 60 fps interlaced images. This mode isn’t intended to be used for shooting video (playback may not look completely smooth). Rather, Frame Movie mode should be used as a burst, or continuous, shooting mode, like you’d find on a still camera. The XL1 uses an IEEE 1394 port for digital editing and for transferring footage to and from other IEEE 1394 compliant devices. The camcorder also has RCA (composite) audio and video ports, and an S-Video out. The XL1 features a LANC terminal for editing with compatible controllers. Features
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 Sony DVM60PRR/6 Premium Digital Video Cassette Brick (6-Pack) List Price: DescriptionDesigned for high definition recording and playback, the premium digital video cassette (DVC) tapes are ideal for capturing the moment. Each tape provides 60 minutes of quality recording time. Features
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