Recommended Camcorder under $1800?

[dmcelveen11]

I'm new to underwater photography. We do a lot spearfishing in the gulf of Mexico under the oil rigs and i would like to take some underwater videos. Can anyone recommend a good digital camcorder/housing combination for under $1800? Thank you for your help.
Doug

 

[drbill]

Would you be satisfied with mini-DV video or do you want HD? It is quite possible to get a mini-DV camcorder and housing for that price, possibly even with lights (I bought my first set-up for $1,600). However, if you want HD, you may be out of luck.

 

[dmcelveen11]

I'm not opposed to spending a little more money if the pictures are a lot better with HD. I'm more worried about the light than the quality of the picture. I would prefer to use natural light rather than a external light if possible. Is there a certain camera that is preferable with only natural light? Thanks again.

 

[drbill]

HD camcorders tend to do more poorly in low light conditions than mini-DV. I've seen some three-chip mini-DV camcorders that produce better overall results (albeit at lower resolution) than the single chip HD camcorders. Since mini-DV is on its way "out," you may be able to find some good deals on them.

 

[mpgunner]

Hi Doug, Let us know what you find. I'm also starting to look at that same price range.

 

[diversteve]

B&H has 5 or 6 options between $1459-1849. All are mechanical housings with either a Sony or Canon HDV camera. Underwater Video Housing & Camera Kits | B&H Photo Video

 

[H2O Photo Pros]

With the latest round of Top dawg housings out for HD camcorders, you can easily get a quality HD camcorder and a quality housing in your price range. The extra few hundred to add the monitor back to the top dawg housings is well worth it.

The other option is Ikelite has a pre-packaged housing/JVC camera combo that comes in around $1,500 give or take.