Canon MD205

The basics

The Canon MD205 is a miniDV camcorder with a Wide High Resolution 16:9 system,, Advanced zoom that offers up to 36x the magnification, DIGIC DV image processor for bright and crisp images, new LCD video light for poorly-lighted settings and a new multi-angle remote control for a wider control and flexibility in video production.

The good

Yes, real, live video cassettes! It’s pure image quality that has kept MiniDV out of jumble sale territory and the pocket money MD205 doesn’t disappoint, serving up snappy widescreen movies and crisp stereo sound. A big, fat 32x zoom doesn’t hurt either, although the on-board electronic stabilisation is no substitute for a real tripod. If people do start sniggering, you could point out the modern 2.7-inch LCD that reverses to illuminate close-ups, and demonstrate its funky digital effects. Or you could just slip on some jodhpurs, grab a megaphone and run with the whole retro look.

The bad

Remember copying VHS tapes with just the fast forward and rewind buttons? Even that’s preferable to streaming footage from the Canon to a PC, editing it and saving it in a format suited to the 21st century. MiniDV tapes are pricier than memory cards these days, and heavier too – the MD205 weighs in at a hefty 380g.

The bottom line

George Lucas didn’t need High Definition and a hard drive to make the original Star Wars. The MD205 gives you everything you need to make basic, great looking home movies - and with plenty of cash left over for Ewok make-up.