VHS Camcorder Buyer's Guide

Since the invention of the video camera a firestorm of technological innovations has swept the consumer electronics world. In the mid-1980s, consumer camcorders became available in the VHS format. Despite the onslaught of new types of cameras and formats, VHS has endured as a popular video-gathering medium for many consumer videographers, placing it among the most long-lived formats in the history of video.

There are several reasons for the longevity of VHS. Primarily, there is the convenience of easy playback. All VHS tapes, including the compact VHS-C, are viewable with a family VCR. Also, VHS continues to be one of the more affordable formats, with tape prices well below the one-dollar-per-hour mark.

Variety in size is also a feature VHS camcorders offer that other consumer models don't. The larger dimensions of full-size VHS allow the videographer to stabilize the shot by resting the camera on the shoulder. If smaller, lighter weight styles are a priority, VHS-C is as compact as 8mm.

Another feature that some VHS models offer that other analog camcorders don't is the ability to perform insert edits. This means they allow the operator to record (dub) music or sound effects over video footage, or vice versa. The only full-size VHS camera with this capability is RCA's CC4371, while four of JVC's VHS-C camcorders, the GR-AX730, GR-AX930, GR-AXM300 and GR-AXM700, have insert-editing capabilities. This feature is handy for people who edit as they shoot, or who are not interested in purchasing an editing deck, but like to have the versatility of a separate sound track.

S-VHS boosts the quality of the image to almost twice that of standard VHS. Though this format has been superceded in many ways by the introduction of DV, many professionals still choose to shoot with S-VHS. That's why the JVC Professional Products line still offers the GY-X2BU and the GY-X3U.

Depending on your needs, VHS may be the format you're looking for. Consider the features that are important to your video goals, then take a look at the following grid, and check the full specifications at the manufacturers' Web sites. Then go to the consumer electronics store armed with knowledge, and get the camcorder that best suits your needs.