What is the cheapest but high quality prosumer camcorder?

Question

I have been researching high end camcorders, such as the XL2 and the DVX100B, however, they're both too expensive for my monetary situation. Does anyone know of a camcorder that is more frugal that also offers similar functions as the aforementioned camcorders, and not that Sony HVR-1000U?

Answer 1

It's not the camera, it's the lighting, my friend... Get some 3CCD camera for $800, and spend the rest of your effort and budget on good and creative lighting.

Answer 2

The least expensive cameras that would qualify would also have a mic-in jack, full manual control of the major functions (audio level, zoom, exposure, focus) and use miniDV tapes:

Canon HV20, HV30

Sony HDR-HC7, HC9

For using pro-grade (XLR) mics with the 1/8" mic jack, you will need an XLR adapter like those from BeachTek or juicedLink.

Also, from the Sony pro line, take a look at the Sony HVR-A1U. It is the "pro" version of the HDR-HC1 from a couple of years ago (but the A1U has a lot more functionality than the HC1), plus it has XLR mic jacks for pro-grade mics. It is more than the HVR1000U, but less than the XL2 or DVX100B... and the A1U will do high definition AND standard definition the XL2 and 100B are standard definition only). The A1U will not behave quite as well as the XL2 or 100B in extremely low light - but it is not so bad, either.

Answer 3

Canon HG10 AVCHD 40GB High Definition is a pretty good deal for under $1000.

don't waste your  money on an overpriced sony handycam that uses the same functions as a canon or panasonic.