Any camcorder buffs out there?

[gixxer1000]

Hi folks. I am looking to buy a camcorder with the following qualities:

* huge memory capacity, ideally not external media (and definitely no tapes)
* high-end sensor
* good quality stills capability

JVCs Everio Hard Disk camcorders seem to fit the bill and I am drawn to the MG505 (see www.jvc.co.uk/product.php?id=GZ-MG505EK&catid=100094). 3CCD sensor (3 x 1.33m pixel sensors), 5mp stills, 30GB hard disk.

A friend of mine researched extensively and came up with this as the best option (and bought one for himself). He is a complete anorak and spent hours and hours researching the market, so I am fairly comfortable with his recommendation. I plan to use it to video the kids, so don't have particularly technical requirements, I am just looking for top quality movies.

Having never owned a camcorder before I would welcome any opinions / guidance.

Many thanks,
Gixxer

[gixxer1000]

Anyone? Noone? Want that one!

[Tuna]

We have the JVC - later models are much better than the earlier ones. It produces excellent quality videos, it's easy to use and convenient to carry around. Battery life isn't so hot though, so get additional batteries if you can. JVC are bringing out a Hight Def version soon - see www.camcorderinfo.com for news and reviews.