[chemical x]

Are there significant differences/pros/cons when comparing the Canon Elura2 and ZR series. Any other suggestions?

[Paul S]

The Elura2 will have a better image sensor (680,000 pixels) than the ZR series (460,000). Outside of that, I like the ZR series better. The Elura's shape doesn't work for me. I think it's difficult to hold and hold steady. The new ZR's are much better than the previous ZR10 in terms of bells and whistles. The ZR30MC is the way to go. It has the powered accessory mount that the other ZR's lack. It also uses a memory card for stills like the Elura2MC (different from the Elura2 in that respect).

The image sensor thing is also something that I don't feel is too important, unless you are doing some serious professional work. I have a 460k Sony that I uses for professional wedding videos. I think it looks fine and so do my customers.

Sony doesn't get into MiniDV until past $1000 so they won't be an option for you. Canon is definitely the company you want to look at.

[antonio]

for me size matters - the smaller the better. i had a sony trv11 and while the video quality was very good, i found that i rarely took it with me due to it's size (the zr series is a little bit smaller). i've since bought an elura 2 (not the mc since i dont give too much credit to stills taken with a camcorder - not until they can make at least a 2 megapixel still shot version would i consider it - besides, you can still take the same quality stills, just saved to tape on the elura2) and i'm very happy with it. i chose it over the sony pc5 (no progressive scan and a wierd feel) and the zr10/30 becuase of the progressive scan and the "feel." i strongly suggest you go to a dealer and try the camera on for size, then buy it online where you'll get a better deal (pricegrabber.com). now i use the camera a great deal more, stuffing it in my pants pocket (loose pants only) or jacket and seting up for a video shot in no time. i would suggest you also think about the battery life - on the elura 2 and pc5 it's about 45 minutes - while the zr lets you use a bigger standard battery with about 2 hours time on it. personally, 45 minutes between charges is fine with me, so again it wasnt an issue. you'll hear alot about the low light problems with the elura2 but i havent experienced it - with standard indoor house lighting i've found the quality very good for a 1ccd camera. hope this helps

[zigzag]

I concur with antonio - if compactness is your first priority, the Elura2 definitely has an advantage. I take mine everywhere. I also happen to like the upright form factor, but it's a matter of personal taste,and it does cost more. The Z series is great for the money. I recommend going to a store and handling the cameras before making a decision.