Subject: Digital8 vs MiniDV
MiniDV doesn't have much better quality than Digital8. The difference is mainly size. MiniDV cameras are smaller and lighter (because the tapes are smaller and lighter). Digital8 cameras can weigh up to 2 pounds, whereas MiniDV's are as light as 1.2 pounds. The small size can work against you if you have shaky hands, though, because it is easier to shake with a lighter camera. A little shaking can be somewhat corrected automatically if the camera is fitted with image stabilization. The picture and sound quality is pretty much the same, the difference is that the actual camera is better. It is the lens or the 3 CCD's or the advanced features that throw people off.
Some people are saying that MiniDV cameras are easier to use for home video editing. Anyone who says that is really just incorrect and/or biased. Computer video editing software such as iMovie or Adobe Premiere couldn't care less what format your camera is most of the time. The process is exactly the same for both: import, edit with your software, and export.
If you have a good amount of 8mm/Hi8 format tapes (like the person at the top), you should seriously consider the Sony Digital8 cameras. You can just pop in the tape right in the camera and capture in iMovie or whatever software you have as though it was digitally recorded. If you got a MiniDV camcorder you would need to have a 8mm/Hi8 camera and an analog capture card to convert the analog signals into those 1's and 0's. Also, if you get a Digital8 camera, make sure it has the in/outs so you can convert ALL video (from the TV, DVD, VCR, etc.) onto the computer via FireWire. Another benefit is that you'll save about $4 on each tape (multiply that times the number of tapes you think you'll use forever and you will see what I mean). Remember that when you edit the tapes, you will usually have one original copy and one for the finished copy (two tapes for one event, kind of).
You will not find a 2 or 3 CCD Digital8 camera today and probably not ever. Why? Because it was designed for consumers and the average "Joe" doesn't care too much about the more vivid color or razor sharp pictures, "Joe" just wants a movie. MiniDV cameras come in either 1 or 3 CCD models. That is because it just turned out that way, Canon decided to use it with their popular XL1 and GL1 camcorders. That is why people think it is so much better, because Canon uses it on their "professional" camera. A big misconception is that they are professional cameras that can be used for national commercials and movies. Yes, you can use it, but of course you will not get the same amazing results as if you were to use a 32mm film camera that would cost over 5-10k a day to rent. Even for news stations, "soap-operas" or anything that is more than a local production. Do you really think that the XL1 has the quality of Sonys' HDW-F900 $103,000 "base" camera (alone)? That doesn't matter to the average "Joe" or not even too much (most of the time) to the people doing local productions for your area.
MiniDV, although superior in size and camera quality is not necessary for the average person taking home videos (unless you are bootlegging movies, then I would recommend Sony's new MicroDV cameras ;), just kidding). I hope you found this useful and enjoy your day!
Take it easy,
Zack@Delta-Designs.com (Now Zack@KakaliProductions.com)