Which pro camcorder?

Question

I'm looking for a professional camcorder to film independent films, documentaries, & wedding with. I want to spend as little money as possible, but if spending a few more hundred means much better quality, that's fine. I'm not too informed on camera brands, so to someone who is: which would be the best pick?

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Answer 1

You listed:

Panasonic DVX100B, DVC20, DVC60

Sony DCR-VX2000, HVR-HD1000U...

If this is all I get to choose from, I would probably flip a coin between the

Panasonic AG-DVX100B. It has built-in XLR audio in which none of the others have. It does 24p which none of the others do. It is standard definition - but at 16:9 will do a decent job.

or

Sony HD1000U. It does high def and standard def - you will want to add an XLR adapter (like those from BeachTek) because it has only a 1'8" mic-in jack. It does not do 24p, either. It is a shoulder mount, so that helps keep steady.

The VX2000 is a good, camera, too - but only standard def., no HD and no 24p...

The DVC20 and 60 would not make my short list...