Electronics, Lighting, & Gadgets - Video Camera opinions

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Wildcatnj

01-12-09, 08:35 PM

I was thinking of using a video camera to tape some of the routes I go on. Right now these are my four main choices:

Buying a Ram Mount and using my camera (Canon A540)
http://www.ram-mount.com/camera_mount/camera_mounts.htm

Oregon Scientific ATC2K camera
http://www.amazon.com/Oregon-Scientific-Action-Memory-Camcorder/dp/B000F5FKHI/

Epic Sports Stealth Action Camera
http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?Prodid=11333209&whse=BC&topnav=&browse=&lang=en-US

Digital Blue Tony Hawk Helmet Cam
http://www.amazon.com/Digital-Blue-Tony-Hawk-Helmetcam/dp/B000AYAJ34/

I do not need the best quality like those in the $200+ range. I am just wondering if anyone has had any experience comparing the different types and which they prefer.

Gyro

01-12-09, 11:19 PM

Thinking about this one this spring.

http://www.tachyoninc.com/main.html

Can't help with the others.

RubenX

01-13-09, 12:10 AM

I have the ATC2K. It needs lots of light to work and the footage is very shakey. My 2 cents.

Unknown Cyclist

01-13-09, 02:01 AM

I also bought an ATC2k it's complete rubbish.

If you were 10 years old you'd still be disappointed by the 'quality'

It's much lower quality than the CVS camcorders.

:)

LanceMach

01-13-09, 08:03 AM

I've tried several different methods for taping Open Track runs in my car and by far the best and most convenient was using my digitial still camera. My Panasonic DMC-FX07 gave much better results than either Hi8 or MiniDV camcorders and was much easier to get onto the PC.

After seeing the results I got in the car, I mounted the camera to my bike and was very pleased with the results.

Best part is that I got the camera off eBay for around $75. I had done my research and really liked the fact that this camera shoots in widescreen at fairly decent resolution - 848x480. You can get around 30 minutes on a single clip.

Wildcatnj

01-13-09, 06:13 PM

thanks for all the feedback, I will probably buy the RAM mount.

tnuom

02-17-09, 02:13 AM

I think it's better if you check the camcorder ratings (http://www.smartratings.com/photography/camcorders) of various brands. The expert reviews can help you get acquainted about certain products. That would make your choice much easier.

Good luck.

agarose2000

02-17-09, 08:35 AM

the HERO cam has some really cool vids on the website, I believe helmet-mounted. Check it out.