Camcorder Question: Sony HC26 vs. HC96

[lucky978]

Obviously there is a large difference in price. From reading some of the informative threads on this board, I'm knowlegeable just enough to know the difference is mostly because of the 1/6 ccd vs. 1/3 ccd.

The HC96, however, only has 10x optical zoom (compared to 20x for the HC26). Why would this be - if the HC96 is so much more $$$?

Also, I like how the HC96 claims that they have "analog" capabilities for transferring old VHS tapes to digital. Has anyone used this feature?

What do you think? I'd like a nice zoom if possible, but also would like the 1/3 ccd. Why can't I have both in a Sony Handycam?

 

[Anewman]

when you have a smaller sensor it is easier to get magnification(actually crop factor) out of a lens.

Kinda like with digital SLR cameras and film SLR lenses, a 100mm lens acts like 160mm lens when mounted on a DIGITAL SLR because the sensor is smaller than a 35mm frame.

10x optical zoom is still considered a "nice zoom" IMO.