I know this has been discussed before (I unsuccessfully tried search) but I'm looking for a mini camcorder that has an input for an external mic. Does any such device exist?

It would be used mostly to record a live music band and/or solo acts. Anyone currently using such a device? Does an external mic make a difference, or are you satisfied with your audio without a mic input?

Any suggestions on the camcorder and external mic would be appreciated.

Thanks

For my money, this has been the best ever.
http://www.samsontech.com/zoom/products/handheld-video-recorders/q3/

I have big Tascam HD recorders with inputs, but never use them. This has excellent sound recording and good video.

Bernie

I looked at the Zoom and the Kodak Zi8 and went with the Zi8 after doing days reading reviews and comparisons. It was a little while ago, and now I can't remember exactly what convinced me to go with the Kodak, but it was a result of the research ... Good luck.
Ciao,
Jerry

Thanks Bernie and Jerry

I checked out both, and from what I have read, both have great reviews.

So far I have determined the Zoom Q3 HD (the newest Zoom is the HD model) has better 'on board' sound, while the Kodak Zi8 has equally good sound, but only if you use an external mic, like the Sony Condenser Stero Mic

The Kodak Zi8 cost more and an external mic seems to be needed for quality audio, while the Zoom HD costs less, has quality built in stereo mics, and an external mic is not needed, although there is an input jack.

Both seem to be equal in video quality, perhaps Jerry was comparing the Zi8 with the older non HD Zoom Q3

Based on all that, I'm currently leaning toward the newest Zoom Q3 HD

I'm sure that I did indeed compare the Zi8 to the older Zoom ... but I paid $149.99 for the Zi8, new in the box.
Ciao,
Jerry

What I want is to be able to use stereo audio inputs in conjunction with the video, bypassing mics.
DonM

The Zoom seems to be the only one with a stereo, line-in connection that would allow you to bypass the onboard mics and used outboard audio systems.

Cheers,

Gary

Don, would this work?

It's a condenser stereo mic made for camcorders (Made By Sony)Stereo separation is suppose to be good

Actually I want to run the sound off the recorder outputs of my mixer and record the video at the same time so that it will be synced.
I'm not absolutely sure the Zoom will do both at the same time. I know it has stereo audio inputs, but nobody can tell me if they work with the camera.
Thanks,
DonM

The user manual wasn't too clear about that, Don. This is one that you may have to contact Customer Service via telephone to find the answer.

Gary

I know. I read the manual. I can't justify getting one right now anyway so it really doesn't matter.

DonM

I bought the ZoomQ3HD just last week, and it is a little gem!
I think you will find the answers to all your questions if you go to
http://www.zoom.co.jp/faq/q3hd
got it in UK at Maplin's for £179

It's an absolute gem and it can probably do most of what we want...........

Don, it appears the Q3HD can do both at the same time

From Zoom.co.jp

Audio input jack
The Q3HD’s audio input jack allows for external recording devices to capture video and stereo recordings to the unit. Combined with a mixer, you can use this recorder to capture sound through multiple microphones for sophisticated recordings.

Sounds like a fantastic device.
Worth $300?...perhaps.

Thanks, I'll check it out when I get a chance.
DonM

You Bet! every penny (and cent)
There is also an easy facility to send your videos and sound to YouTube (if you are into that sort of thing)using an included app called
Handy Share which comes with the Q3HD.
see HandyShare is the software application that allows trimming of video and audio files, applying sound effect and also makes uploading them to YouTube easily. You can create your movies and share them with everyone via the Internet.

"HandyShare is the software application that allows trimming of video and audio files, applying sound effect and also makes uploading them to YouTube easily. You can create your movies and share them with everyone via the Internet. "

From reviews I have read it is the audio recording features that sets this camcorder apart from other competing products. While other camcorders are better in terms of rechargable batteries and onboard storage they don't compete with the audio recording features and this is the recommended unit for recording live music performances.

Here is the PCMag review http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2373829,00.asp

http://www.samsontech.com/zoom/products/handheld-video-recorders/q3hd/

For my friends in USA, above is a site for you.

Actually the Kodak Zi8 also has a stereo line input.

How about this?...Video using the Kodak Zi8, with Audio using the Zoom Q3HD.

I assume there will be a little editing on a video/music project; right? Then, any combination of a stereo recorder (I used an old Zoom H2 on my recent ones) and an appropriate cam (I sometimes use a Cannon Rebel with HD video capabilities) will do.

Just turn the audio and video units on and clap your hands. synch the audio video after you dump both into your computer.


Works GREAT!


R.