Best camcorder under $1500- 2012

Overview
The World's first 3D Full HD consumer camcorder Sony HDR-TD10 High Definition is set to expand the world of 3D while redefining the meaning of home video. Up until now, high quality 3D image capturing was only possible with professional cameras, but with the Sony HDR-TD10 High Definition, anyone can shoot stunningly beautiful Full HD 3D videos. From the occasional big moments, to the day-to-day small moments, you can now capture all that in Full HD 3D.

* Shot with two lenses and processed with two image processors
Driven by not one but two Wide Angle Sony G Lenses, two "Exmor R" CMOS sensors, and two powerful "BIONZ" image processors, HDR-TD10 is able to shoot 3D images in Double Full HD.
# "Frame packing" method to achieve Full HD quality
By employing the "frame packing" 3D signaling method, HDR-TD10 is able to produce Full HD 3D images without sacrificing image quality, as both the left and right frames are transferred via HDMI as Full HD signals without being squeezed by half.
# Shoot in 3D, watch in both 3D and 2D
Simply shoot in 3D, and have a choice to watch in 3D or 2D later, both in Full HD quality. When Sony HDR-TD10 High Definition is connected to a 2D HDTV, only one of the channels of the 3D video will be displayed automatically, without the need to manually switch from 3D to 2D on the camcorder.
# Optimum distance between lenses to produce the optimum stereoscopic effect
One of the most important characteristics in a 3D camera is the amount of stereoscopic effect a camera can produce. Based on our rich experience in both 3D imagery and camcorder technology, for Sony HDR-TD10 High Definition, a distance of 31mm between the lenses is chosen for optimum performance.

Get full HD 3D recording in the palm of your hand with the Sony HDR-TD1. Using two full 1920 x 1080 sensors, you get real HD 3D recording to record your memories. Review your footage in 3D on the 3.5" LCD screen without glasses, and use the HDMI output to display your movies directly from the camera onto your compatible HDTV. Shooting options like intelligent auto and steadyshot make getting the best in 3D simple.

Sony HDR-TD10 High Definition

Product Description
Capture stunning 1920 x 1080 high-definition video and 12 Megapixel still images with the HDR-XR550V, which employs an "Exmor R" CMOS sensor for superior low-light performance and a 240GB internal hard disk drive. Optical SteadyShot image stabilization with Active Mode and 3-way Shake Canceling enables you to capture remarkably smooth video from wide angle to full telephoto shooting.
Technical Details

1920 x 1080 high-definition resolution
12.1-megapixel still image capture
Built-in 120 GB hard disk drive can record and store up to 48 hours of high definition video footage (HD LP mode)
Bionz image processor; Face Detection
3.2-inch widescreen, touch-panel Xtra Fine LCD display and color viewfinder.

CUSTOMER SAYING
The HDR-XR550V takes absolutely stunning HD video and stills. I owned the HDR-XR500V which I absolutely loved. In addition to all the great features on the HDR-XR500V, the HDR-XR550V includes an electronic viewfinder and also provides manual shutter speed control. It also offers a non-native 60p output option and in-camera standard definition downconversion. The latter is an especially welcome addition, giving users the ability to record and archive their footage in the highest quality, then export and edit with the smaller, more manageable MPEG-2 files.

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I bought this camera to accompany my other Sony Z1U which shoots HD on HDV tapes using the HDV compression. This camera records the newer AVCHD compression onto a 240 GB hard drive, which is absolutely awesome. Even at the highest quality setting, I could record over 1900 minutes before having to delete anything. And when you're ready to capture, simply hook it up with USB, and your computer recognizes it as a disc. To edit the footage, you will need to convert the footage into Apple ProRes or Apple Intermediate Codec (if using a Mac, of course). Macintosh can not, at the time of writing this, edit the AVCHD footage NATIVELY (i.e. without converting it). I hear the new Final Cut 8 which is coming out soon should be able to do it. For the Windows users, I have a friend who edits ACVHD using a Pinnacle System and he doesn't need to convert.
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I've had this camera for three months now and highly recommend it. The HD video quality (I only use the FX 24 Mbps mode) is stunning. I sometimes think the video is even more realistic looking than the actual scene being shot. I have added a Rode Stereo Video Mic and Vortex Warm Cards to good effect.

I would like to have more independent manual control over focusing, exposure, white balance, etc. It is possible to manually adjust these settings but there is only a small multipurpose rotary knob for this purpose. Also, you can't simultaneously adjust both aperture and shutter speed. A larger lens would be nice, native progressive mode framing, and XLR microphone inputs. In order to get these features, you would have to spend a few thousand dollars more.

Sony HDR-XR550V

The Canon VIXIA HF G10 allows you to record up to 12 hours of clear high definition video to a 32GB internal flash drive or to two SDXC-compatible memory card slots. With Relay Recording, the camcorder automatically switches video recording from the internal drive to the SD memory cards when the memory becomes full. No need then to worry about running out of recording time during a thrilling, once-in-a-lifetime shot. With SDXC memory card compatibility, you'll have card storage capacity from more than 32GB up to 2TB and ultra-fast data transfer speeds.

You'll also have the flexibility of copying video from your VIXIA HF G10's internal drive to the removable SD or SDXC memory cards. That makes it easy to insert the card into your computer or HDTV's card reader and view your recorded footage immediately.
The advantages of flash memory go beyond the added recording time. You'll also appreciate the quick response time, because there are no moving parts in the recording process. Press the record button and your Canon VIXIA HF G10 starts recording video faster than you've ever seen before. In addition, when you review, you'll have quick access to your footage.
Another benefit of flash memory is the VIXIA HF G10's low power consumption rate, allowing your battery to last longer. It's just what you need so you don't miss that pivotal play on the field or the moment when they say "I do."

While we certainly hope you keep your VIXIA HF G10 securely in your hand while shooting, if it happens to slip, or you accidentally knock it against something, you'll be happy to know that flash memory makes your camcorder more shock-resistant than other recording storage systems. It also minimizes the chance of data loss if you accidently jolt or drop your camcorder.
Outstanding Video Resolution (800 Vertical and 900 Horizontal TV Lines)
Since the effective number of pixels of HD CMOS Pro is equal to 1920 x 1080, resizing is eliminated, allowing Full HD video to be captured and recorded with professional precision.
Superb Low-Light Performance (1.5 lux)**
Because each individual pixel is larger and more sensitive, each is capable of capturing more light, allowing high quality video to be achieved even in dimly lit conditions. The sensitivity of HD CMOS Pro is approximately 25% better than the Full HD CMOS sensor in the 2010 VIXIA HF S-series.
Wide Dynamic Range
A larger pixel area also allows more light to be stored, resulting in 280% improvement in dynamic range for exceptional reproduction of both highlights and shadows.*** Skin tones are captured in a finer gradation, and stable gamma and Auto Exposure control is also achieved resulting in a more 'lifelike' image.
Custom Key and Dial
A Custom Key and Dial feature allows you to assign functions to an easily accessible key and adjust the settings with a control dial. They include:
Tv/Av: Use the dial to adjust shutter speed (Tv mode) or aperture (Av mode), as needed. In this mode the key has no effect.
Manual exposure: When manual control is selected, the dial can adjust aperture, shutter speed, or gain. Select items to adjust, such as aperture or other settings, with the key.
Exposure Lock can be set on or off as can the AGC Limit.
CUSTOMER SAYING
Since I was a little kid with an 8mm film camera, I have tried in vain to make videos that had the look and sound of professional TV and movie productions.
I failed in many ways, many times. Sometimes due to my meager skills, sometimes due to the short comings of my cameras.
The Vixia HF G10 changes that. I can no longer blame my equipment.
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I guess I was one of the lucky few who was able to get this camera early. I got mine 2 weeks ago and have been nothing but impressed with it. Right out of the box and in a medium lit interior room the picture was superb. I got a chance to take it out in the field for a bit and am extremely happy with it. Full manual control, a focus ring, an awesome and absolutely beautiful touch screen, what more could you ask for?

Canon VIXIA HF G10

Sony HDR-TD20V can capture your precious moments in an immersive 3D experience .The advance Dual Full HD sensors produce true 3D videos with 1920x1080 60p/24p resolution and 20.4 megapixel still images. The HDR-TD20V also allows you to view 3D video directly on the 3.5-inch Xtra Fine LCD display - no glasses needed.
Technical Details

20.4 megapixel still image capture
10X Optical, 17X Extended Zoom
3.5 inch Xtra Fine LCD 3D display with TruBlack technology
1920x1080 Full HD 60p/24p recording
64GB Flash Memory for up to 24hrs 2D HD video
Key Features
Double Full HD 3D Consumer camcorder

The Sony HDR-TD20V utilizes two Full HD sensors to capture true 1920x1080 3D video for a more immersive 3D experience. Most 3D cameras achieve the 3D affect by splitting a 1920x1080 signal into two 960x540 channels in order to squeeze them onto one sensor, thereby limiting resolution on the final output.

3D Ready 3.5-inch Xtra Fine LCD display (1229K) w/TruBlack technology

The LCD is also 3D ready, enabling you to view your 3D content directly on the camera's LCD without the need for 3D glasses. TruBlack technology brings remarkably higher contrast and brightness to the camcorder's 3.5-inch Xtra Fine LCD display, delivering more natural, realistic colors and easier viewing in bright conditions by reducing glare.

1920x1080 Full HD 60p/24p recording*** w/20.4MP still image capture

Capturing 1920 x 1080 high definition resolution lets you record your memories in exceptional Full High Definition quality. Capable of 60p recording*** and playback via HDMI and compatible HDTV** providing stunning clarity and incredibly detailed playback of your memories. If you're looking for a film-like quality look to your video, 24p recording* is available for you.

64GB* embedded Flash Memory

The built-in 64GB* embedded Flash memory can record and store up to 25 hours of 2D high definition video footage (HD LP mode), or up to 5 hours of High definition 3D video.


Manual Control (Iris/Shutter/Exposure/White Balance)
Get the most out of your camcorder with enhanced manual controls. The assignable dial allows for control of focus, exposure, white balance, iris, and shutter speed.
CinemaTone Presets and 24p Recording for Cinematic Quality Video
For extra control over image expression, CinemaTone technology is used to deepen the color and recreate film-like color tones. Combined with 24p recording, you'll have some of the tools you need to fulfill your need for cinematic expression.
Advanced Controls with Expanded Focus, Zebra, and Peaking

26mm Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T Lens
From the authority in lens technology, the Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T lens provides a high quality 26mm wide angle so you can get everything you want in the shot.

Back-illuminated Exmor CMOS sensor for Superb Low-light Video
Experience stunning low-light sensitivity with improved image clarity and drastically reduced grain with Sony's back-illuminated Exmor CMOS sensor. Designed for compact cameras and camcorders, the Exmor sensor relocates the photo diodes above the support circuitry, maximizing the light gathering area per pixel so you can shoot with better results in lower lighting conditions.

Sony HDR-TD20V

Sony HDRCX760V