Advise on Sony HDR-CX12 High Definition Handycam Camcorder

Please advise on the Sony HDR-CX12 High Definition Handycam Camcorder, is it worth buying among tons of camcorder out there ? What's other would you recommend ? Pros/Cons. Don't worry about the underwater housing yet, I am looking for a high def video for topside use for now.

Thank you !

Dominic

I know you say not to worry about a housing yet, but if you plan on using the same camcorder UW, the housing is key. The camcorder selection is limited by the housings available to match it. You might pick a topside camcorder that meets all your needs of price, features and performance, only to find their is no housing available for it.

Please advise on the Sony HDR-CX12 High Definition Handycam Camcorder, is it worth buying among tons of camcorder out there ? What's other would you recommend ? Pros/Cons. Don't worry about the underwater housing yet, I am looking for a high def video for topside use for now.

 

Thank you !

Dominic

I've never been thrilled with the cost of the proprietary Memory Stick Pro Duo media. On an extended dive trip I could see it getting expensive unless you bring a laptop and download it. And I could see completely filling the 4GB Memory stick on a single dive if you shoot at either of the higher HD resolutions:

Recording and Playback Times : When using supplied 4GB Memory Stick PRO Duo™ Media Mark2: High Definition: FH = up to 25 min., HQ = up to 30 min. SP = up to 65 min., LP = up to 85 min.

Housings are available for any of these though - without looking I'd guess the L&M Stingray, Bluefin, Ikelite, TopDawg are options.

You also want to use it underwater? Well if you are looking for quality video then you should take it, i think it is much better to go for housings instead of underwater camcorders like Panasonic SDR-SW20.