r2i forum

GoogleAjax;8915I am looking at the Sony model DCR-SR40 30GB HDD, but not convinced about the reviews especially editing. I am having hard time to finalize a model.

Could somebody please recommend a good camcorder for budget range $500. Thanks.[/quote]

GoogleAjax;8915I am looking at the Sony model DCR-SR40 30GB HDD, but not convinced about the reviews especially editing. I am having hard time to finalize a model.

Could somebody please recommend a good camcorder for budget range $500. Thanks.[/quote]

GoogleAjax;9110I'm like more inclined towards the model JVC Everio GZMG130 30GB HD. Is this the good one to go with?:confused:[/quote]

Buying a camcorder has become a complex project nowadays with too many brands, too many options and price ranges. New models are introduced every year which compounds the problems. Anyway, when you are looking for a camcorder, you have to decide on the features you desire.
1) type: minidv or dvd or HDD
2) Performance and handling isssues
3) Manufacturer
4) Features
5) price

It is difficult to compare different models with different features. Here's a website which will help you with the reviews and comparisons.
http://www.camcorderinfo.com/

If you are looking for a minidv, canon elura 100 is probably the best in its class. It has the highest rating amongst similar camcorders.

Here's the review on JVC-GZ-MG37 or JVC-GZ-MG30.
http://www.camcorderinfo.com/content/JVC-GZ-MG37-Camcorder-Review/ComparisonsConclusion.htm

"Conclusion
The JVC-GZ-MG37 bears few differences to the MG30 that is replaces. The MG30 was not a well-liked camcorder here, and scored very low in areas of performance. How can we do anything to applaud the MG37, then?
These new features center largely around convenience. The Direct to DVD feature requires the additional purchase of the Everio Share Station CU-VD10 for $200. It’s a good feature, but if you want DVDs so much, maybe you should buy a DVD camcorder in the first place. If you put that $200 towards a purchase of the Panasonic VDR-D300, you’d be buying an immensely better camcorder and ending up with DVDs as well.
As stated earlier in this review, we believe that HDD, or something like it, will eventually dominate the camcorder world. MiniDV tapes, despite their superior quality, are being surpassed by DVDs for the sake of convenience. HDD and flash media are even more convenient because of greater compatibility and reusability. And while JVC is at the forefront of the consumer end of this technology, we recommend holding off for now. This technology needs time to develop.
The GZ-MG37 is the ultimate in convenience. If this sole selling point is enough to attract you, the camcorder may not disappoint. But if you’re just looking for something more convenient than MiniDV, there are plenty of DVD camcorders that deliver the same or better quality, and plenty more camcorders at the same price that can deliver vastly superior quality."

My advise. Narrow down the features you want and tell me what you want. I will try and look it up for you. Meanwhile, you can do your own research at the above mentioned website.