How is the video quality of digital video cameras compared to the older analog VHS or Hi-8 video cameras?

Initialy we bought a Sony HI8 Handy Cam for its higher resolution than those of the VHS types. Since the Sony showed signs of death last October, we purchased a Hitachi DVD Cam. The Hitachi doubles as a digital still camera but only at 640 x 480 resolution. Pictures at up to 12X Optical Zoom are fine but extending the zoom to 240X using the digital magnification produces distorted images. Video on the other hand depends on the maximum resolution of the CCD. If the CCD is rated at low number of pixels then the picture would be equivalent to a 640 X 480 PC screen. Hiher pixel rating of the CCD are better regardless of the recording media. The Analog cameras typicaly have had good color and white balance when set to Auto. Digital Cameras (according to my research) have problems in this area unless it is a very expensive "Professional" camera. I haven't had a chance to use the New Camera for Video as yet but the reviews rate it at 8-1/5 out of 10. Consider the price.

Sticking with a Digital or Analog Tape Cassete is a good choice for those who like to record up to two hours without changing mini DVD discs and are less susceptible to media damage. New Digital Cameras with Hard Disc Drivers are a good alternative to DVD disc cameras. Just more expensive.

In all the articles I have read to this date, the video quality seems to be best with analog tapes folloewd by digital tapes on cameras that have large pixel count CCDs.

I dont know if Digital Mini Cassete Cams will record in HD or Wide Screen format but most all DVD and Hard Drive Cameras will record in both conventional and Wide screen format. I'd recomend doing as much research as posible before deciding on the camera you'd want to purchase. There are several websites and magazines that publish reviews and give specific details.

Knowledge is priceless.

the old cameras have more memory and better quality, say if the quality was digital it would be 50 frames per second

But today's camcorders only have 30 fps.

If you mathching quality you'll probably need an HD camcorder for around 2000 dollars!

Much better.