Advice on low-end mini dv

[astrodude]

My spouse just purchased a Panasonic PV-GS9 for me, which I am reluctant to open. I have been browsing for a camcorder replacement in this price range, and have read about every review on the internet that I could find. A couple of the ones that I could afford were the Canon ZR-80/85, JVC GR-D33, and the other Samsung or Panasonic ones in the price range. Sony was another thought, but I didn't want to downgrade from my current 12x optical zoom. The Canon impressed me because I was told that it had the best optics and ability to take the old analog tapes and convert it as a pass-thru. I don't know if I really need this or not, as I have an analog AIW capture card and video editing software that I use to edit and burn the movies to dvd. Would the pass thru option be a benefit for me? I worry about the quality comparing the low light issues of the 1 CCD chips to my current vhs-c. I don't have a light on my camera, but I haven't ever had issues with the lighting being too dark while indoors. (my house tends to be a little on the darker side.) This is where the JVC GR-D33 was supposed to excel. I guess I was just hoping that someone has some experience with these cameras. Because of previous features such as color viewfinder, remote, I was leaning toward buying the ZR80/ZR85 and adding a light it if was bad. Any suggestions?

[lordsmurf]

The Canon ZR-90 gets my stamp of approval for its features and ESPECIALLY its quality when it shoots. The ZR-85 is supposed to be the same, just a lesser zoom (only slightly).

I was entirely UNIMPRESSED by most Panasonic cameras, at least until you start to spend some $$$. Same for the Sony ones.

The ZR-90 has handled quite well in low light, and without digital artifacts. Not tested passthrough, really no need here.

[harmsway1976]

i just ordered the jvc gr-d72 last night for delivery this week. i chose this one because it's in that price range and all the reviews for it on different sites said it has very good low light abilities and it a good buy for the price. i got it for $299 including 3 day shiping from pcrush.com

[Beavis]

None of the low-end 1 CCD MiniDV cameras are very "good" in low light. You should basically accept that and, if you're not willing to spend a lot more money, go forward from there. With that in mind, the Canon ZR's are very good.

[harmsway1976]

i'm not expecting to be able to see in the dark, but every review i've seen on that particular camera was positive overall. every camera has its pros and cons and i know i'm getting what i pay for. i'm going to be using it for home videos and playing back tapes i receive from others, not professional applications so i don't need an extremely high end camera. the jvc should suit me just fine and as long as i'm happy with my purchase that should be the most important consideration, right?