A Good Time to Go Camcorder Shopping

If a $600 to $700 camcorder is on your shopping list, there is good news: This is a good time to buy. With sales generally sluggish, it’s possible to get better values than ever before, and some features from the top-of-the-line models have filtered down to the low end.

If you’re confused about what to look for, here are a few tips:

When choosing a format (VHS, VHS-C or 8mm), consider which features are better for you. There’s no significant difference in picture quality provided by the formats--no matter what salesmen tell you.

If sound is crucial, go for an 8mm unit. If playback convenience is more important, the full-sized VHS may be your best bet: You can play the finished tape in a standard VCR without an adapter (as is needed for the compact VHS-C) and without hooking the camcorder directly to the TV (which is necessary with 8mm camcorders, unless you have an 8mm VCR). Also, the full-sized VHS units can use standard VHS tapes, which are the least expensive.

If size is a prime consideration--and it is with most buyers--the compacts, 8mm and VHS-C, which weigh in at 2 to 3 pounds, might be preferable. But if you have big hands, using these small machines can be awkward. A 5 to 6 pound, full-sized VHS model may be more comfortable.

At this price, don’t be swayed by the lux number, which measures the unit’s ability to shoot in dim light. A low lux, say 2, is more desirable, but in this price range you won’t get a unit that shoots exceptionally well in low light anyway. Lux is also an unreliable specification since it is measured by several different standards.

The big difference between the low-end and high-end models ($1,000 to $1,400) is that the more expensive ones offer higher quality parts and more features--although some of them are not vital to your enjoyment of the finished product.

An exception: For great close-ups, say with a 12:1 power zoom lens, you have to spend in the vicinity of $1,200. With a low-cost unit, you’re likely to get a 6:1 lens, which doesn’t get you as close to the action. With diligent shopping, you may be able to find a model offering an 8:1 lens for about $700.

The most important thing about buying a camcorder, whatever the price, is to try it out first in the store and make sure it’s comfortable to use. And consider buying a tripod: Beginners don’t realize that you can get very jumpy pictures with a hand-held camcorder.