Best 4K & HD Camcorders For Musicians
Filming a music video is quite fun, but it includes a massive amount of work. For that, you need the best music camcorder that can ease your job.
Music camcorder refers to those video cameras that offer special features and specs for musicians. They give you lots of precise control over audio and video recording to ensure professional quality.
It is a camcorder that records RAW audio and video files, and lets you add professional-looking color grading and correction in the post-processing phase. These types of pro features and specifications help you to make your videos more appealing.
Now, you may be trying to seek out the best Camcorder for musicians, isn’t it? Choosing the best among lots of available camcorder options is time-consuming and a little bit confusing. To clear your all confusion, I’ve picked up some of the top music camcorders and reviewed them below. Also, I’ve added some buying tips and answered some frequently asked questions in today’s article.
In a hurry?!, here are my top picks
REVIEW OF BEST CAMCORDER FOR MUSICIANS
1. ZOOM Q8 - BEST HANDY CAMCORDER FOR MUSICIANS
PRODUCT DETAILS:
FEATURES & DESIGN:
The zoom Q8 camcorder incorporates a wide-angle zoom lens with an auto image sensing feature. The high-quality 16.6 mm F2.0 lens shoots HD video with the highest clarity, even in low light. It provides a 160° angle of view and 4X digital zoom. The tripod mountable design is also compatible with all 3 point action camera mounts which makes it more convenient for outdoor and indoor shooting.
This video camera for recording live music deserves the first recommendation as it allows you to record four channels of audio simultaneously in standalone mode with or without video. You can record the main audio through the stereo track using the built-in X/Y microphone. The attached stereo X/Y microphone is detachable. If you want better sound, you can use mid-side, shotgun, or other compatible X/Y Zoom microphone capsules. It supports all types of H5 or H6 handy recorders.
For recording background scores, you need to configure multiple mic-recording systems. To configure the connection, mount the Q8 audio recorders to your guitar and the mic stands in front of other instruments at first. Then, attach the jacks of external microphones, and other line-level sources with the Camcorder through the XLR/TRS audio input units. The XLR/jack combo inputs take external microphones or line inputs to record background tracks.
You can keep the track as separate mono tracks or combine them into a stereo pair. To streamline the process it provides four recording modes: video with audio, video with separate audio files, single stereo audio, and multiple audio tracks. The live streaming facility is like a cherry on the top for musicians.
PERFORMANCE:
If you are on a hunt for the best 2 in 1 (audio + video recorder) for musicians, this portable device could be a fantastic choice for you. It lets you record 3M HD, HD, or SVGA video up to 2,034 x 1,296 pixels resolution and audio up to 24-bit/96kHz. It provides up to a 60fps frame rate during video recording for your music album. Even, it maintains the same high speed for slow-mo or fast action recording too.
What I liked about this CAMCORDER:
2. PANASONIC HC-V180K - TOP VIDEO RECORDER FOR MUSICIANS
PRODUCT DETAILS:
FEATURES & DESIGN:
No other option can be the best video recorder for musicians who want a professional quality video for their music album. When it comes to the best video quality, I highly recommend this Panasonic HC-V180K for its 1/5.8-inch BSI CMOS image sensor and 5-Axis optical Image stabilization system with Level shot function.
This duo combination makes this camcorder suitable for shooting the best quality music videos in difficult situations and lighting conditions. The Level Shot function automatically detects and fixes tilting issues in images. You can adjust the shot levels depending on shooting conditions in between three options - OFF, Normal or Strong.
The 28 mm wide-angle lens provides a 35mm equivalent focal length to fit more of the background into the frame. On top of that, the 50X zoom lens expands its capacity up to 90X zoom and lets you capture the most distant objects without involving a single distortion. Some creative effects like an 8 mm cinematic look, time-lapse video, and miniature effects let you add extra spiciness to the music videos.
NOTE: This HC-V180K does not support Wi-Fi connectivity or live streaming of videos. Plus, there is no port for attaching headphone jack, and external microphone inputs.
PERFORMANCE:
It can record 1920 x 1080P resolution video in AVCHD, MP4, or iFrame format with up to 60 FPS speed. The built-in 2 channels zoom audio recorder lets you capture crisp and clear audio in Dolby digital AAC format from a distance. The intelligent recorder synchronizes the recording volume in low to high synced according to its active zoom.
What I liked about this CAMCORDER:
3. CANON VIXIA HF G50 4K - BEST VIDEO CAMERA FOR RECORDING LIVE MUSIC
PRODUCT DETAILS:
FEATURES & DESIGN:
Let's get more professional! Well, if you are a professional musician looking for a high-quality video cam for shooting your live music videos, then what about trying this Canon VIXIA HF G50 camcorder. It is one of the most popular video cameras for recording live music.
The efficient image sensor and powerful image processor capture clear videos, even in insufficient lighting conditions. On the other hand, the optical image stabilization system reduces the jitters and handheld shake issues from 5 directions, especially at the highest zoom and maximum focal lengths. But guess what! Th camcorder is compact and easy-to-use and comes with a lens hood and lens barrier for better protection.
PERFORMANCE:
First let me tell you that, Canon VIXIA HF G50 has overcome all problems that you could face with the previous model (PANASONIC HC-V180K). Yes, the design incorporates ports for attaching the headphone jack and taking microphone inputs. Moreover, you can use it as a webcam and also live-stream your music video.
On the other hand, the built-in 2 channel audio recording system shows the same efficacy as the previous music camcorder. It records professional quality 16 Bit audio with less background noise. In addition, you can record 4K ultra HD video, including slow-mo or fast action or other creative effects with up to 60 fps rate.
Overall, Canon VIXIA HF G50 is one of the best camcorders in the market for shooting pro-grade music albums and videos!
NOTE. You can check my in-depth review on Canon G50 video camera, to get more information.
What I liked about this CAMCORDER:
4. SONY FDR-AX43 4K - BEST HANDYCAM FOR MUSICIANS
PRODUCT DETAILS:
FEATURES & DESIGN:
What do you expect from a good camcorder for musicians? A good audio-video recording system! Right? But, wide-angle telephoto zoom lens, powerful image Sensor, advanced stabilization system, and especially the 5.1 channel stereo recording units give you more. Moreover, the Sony AX43 handycam enables easy operation featuring a joystick, five function buttons, custom dial controls, and a lens ring.
PERFORMANCE:
Aside from traditional 2 channel audio units, it includes a 5.1 channels stereo recording system for capturing sounds from 5 directions at 48 kHz / 16 bits in PCM format. The LCD screen displays the levels of each channel for easy control. Though, you can use it only for FHD or HD, or 720P video recording. But, it compensates for the limitation by enabling high-speed 4K UHD video recording at XAVC-S codec format.
Sony AX43 and AX53 almost hold the same features; however, the latter model has a ViewFinder and also holds an Infrared Night Vision facility. If you are not keen, you need these two features for sure; then the Sony FDR AX-43 is great for you.
What I liked about this CAMCORDER:
5. SONY FDR-AX700 - BEST 4K VIDEO RECORDER FOR LIVE MUSIC
PRODUCT DETAILS:
Do you want to amaze your audience by creating a stunning music video with attractive out-of-focus backgrounds and visual depth? The exclusive HLG recording, HDR mode, and built-In ND Filters of this SONY FDR-AX700 camcorder is waiting for your appreciation.
FACT: FDR-AX700 is Sony's first palm-sized music camcorder to incorporate instant HDR workflow.
Aside from these pro features, it also provides the best quality 4K ultra HD video and audio with the highest clarity and minimum background noise. The Exmor RS CMOS image sensor and BIONZ X image processor let you capture the same smooth videos in different types of situations.
What I liked about this CAMCORDER:
6. PANASONIC HC-WXF1
PRODUCT DETAILS:
If you want to show the singer from multiple angles, this 4K camcorder can simplify your task. Along with the advanced image stabilization package, it also incorporates level shot functions to correct tilting issues. The built-in 5.1 channel microphone captures clear sound from more distance. On the other hand, the Leica telephoto zoom lens brings the most distinct objects near to you. It provides all the features and specs that all professional music video creators could expect from the best camcorder for live music.
What I liked about this CAMCORDER:
7. ZOOM Q2N-4K
PRODUCT DETAILS:
FEATURES & DESIGN:
HDR mode captures natural-looking clear video into the shadowed areas, without imposing lighting effects on your subjects. This versatile camcorder offers 12 optical scene mode options for easy scene composition. The options include outdoor, Sepia, Monochrome, concert light, Jazz Club, and many more options based on the ambient light of these places.
The X/Y pattern stereo recording system can record up to 120 dB loud rock music efficiently. The 2 channel microphone captures sounds at a 120-degree angle and produces audio 24-bit WAV files up to 96 kHz. On the other hand, a low-cut filter eliminates low-frequency noise and provides professional sound quality.
PERFORMANCE:
The manufacturer especially launched the Zoom Q2n camcorder model for musicians. It combines a 4K UHD/ 30P video recorder with a maximum 24-bit/96 kHz stereo recording system. The one-button recording mode and 5 FOV setting options let you capture yourself and other band members easily. On the other hand, the one-touch share option enables you to live stream or share your rehearsal video on social media easily.
What I liked about this CAMCORDER:
8. GOPRO HERO9 - SMALL VIDEO CAMERA FOR LIVE MUSIC
PRODUCT DETAILS:
FEATURES & DESIGN:
Are you someone who would love to share short teasers of your music videos on social media platforms for promotion? If yes, then welcome GoPro HERO9 to the world of your music video production. The new features Hind-Sight and Live-Burst are like a blessing for you.
The Live-Burst mode helps you to find the best thumbnail pictures for your music videos. Hind-Sight mode enables a precise self-recording mode, where you can schedule the starting or ending time and set the duration of the recording. Plus, the webcam and live streaming functionalities let you go live on social media platforms for the promotion.
People consider Hero9 as the best Camcorder for musicians for its three microphone arrangements. In the previous edition of the GoPro camcorder, the wind processing techniques were only limited to the compressed audio recording. But, the latest version allows you to apply different degrees of processing during raw audio recording.
Zero processing level provides three different audio WAV files, which come from three different audio recorders. The built-in microphone records crisp and clear audio suppressing unwanted background noise. You can attach external microphones via 3.5 mm Type C USB ports.
This small portable video camera incorporates a 2.3” touchable display screen. Here, you can adjust the zoom, synchronize the audio inputs, and enable professional audio video settings just with a single touch. The flip-out 2-point mount can be attached with over 45 GoPro mounting accessories for better stability.
PERFORMANCE:
Hero9 is the one that provides the same level of stabilization without a Gimbal mechanism. The 3.0 versioned Hyper-smooth I.S and horizon level option capture professional-quality smooth video. It captures stunning 5K, 4K, 2.7K, and 1080P videos in ACV, HEVC, and MP4 formats with 240fps speed.
What I liked about this CAMCORDER:
HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST VIDEO CAMERA FOR MUSIC RECORDING
No musician will want to invest in a wrong video camera, right? So, make sure you consider the following points; before buying any video camera for your next music video project.
If you're creating music videos for online streaming, you need to record a minimum 720P HD video. And, the most important thing is 1920 x 1080P HD / 60P is better than 4K UHD/30P video.
When someone adds round-shaped attractive colorful bokeh in the blurry background, it enlightens the singer and makes the video more visually appealing. To do so, choose a video recorder with an 8-bladed round-shaped aperture. Some music camcorders provide lots of optical scene modes for cinematic composition. And, other high-quality camcorders offer cine-like visual effects, miniature effects, time-lapse, and slow-mo video recording mode to add extra spiciness to the music videos.
The song ultimately touches the heart of your audience. So, before buying anything, you have to check the audio recording system of the Camcorder. YouTube generally streams in ACC audio at 128 kbps bit rate, with Normal quality mode.
Also the camcorder should have an external microphone jack to plug in your headsets, mics etc.
Always try to grab a camcorder that has better battery life. Lithium-ion batteries are the first choice for a portable camcorder. The Rechargeable 2500 mAh battery also works well during shooting.
For music video production, a lightweight, compact handy camcorder is always preferable.
FAQ
If you want a professional 4K video, Panasonic HC-V180K can fulfill your demand. For live music video recording, you can choose any of these camcorders that I mentioned above. These music camcorders mainly emphasize its audio and video recording system.
If you want a grab-and-go music video shooting kit, you need to keep the following things in your camera bag
Generally, it takes 2-3 weeks to complete the shooting and editing process. But, it depends on what you expect from your music videos.
CONCLUSION
The music video production is easy and fun only when you will use the perfect music camcorder. Above mentioned video cameras are great for producing professional-quality music videos. Choose one of them according to your budget or shooting needs, and end up with the best video camera for recording live music now.
