Best small field camera? HV10 or something else?

[naeem]

Hi;

I need to buy 3 or 4 field cameras to hand out to kids in Afghanistan, who'll use the cameras to record themsleves over several months, for a doc we're working on.

Recently CNN, handed out Canon HV10's for the Katrina doc, with Spike Lee. I did some research - is this the best "small" and cheap field camera to get.

Check out this review http://reviews.cnet.com/digital-camcorders/canon-hv10/4540-6500_7-31995279-4.html?tag=sub

Seems like it's the only one that uses tape, and is the right price range. Only downside is lack of external mic (which sucks!) If anyone has used this, or has any input - I'd appreciate some input.

Thanks!

[Huy Vu]

HV20 is better. 24p progressive with a mic jack for not that much more.

[Alan H. Chang]

+1 ^Same as what Huy said.

[joy99]

I think that's qutie a good choice both for the camera and the price .

[onetime1]

HV20 is better. 24p progressive with a mic jack for not that much more.

Yes I agree that HV20 seems better .

[elyuma]

I have the HV10, used for personal staff, the image quality is fantastic on my 51 inch TV. I don't really care about the external mic or 24p. but for everything else, i recommended. here is a sample (http://www.stage6.com/user/elyumapro/video/1174920/Canon-HV10-sample) I took around the house. required DivX