I have less than 2 yr old Sony HC90 (similar to the HC96). Its tiny, has the best image I've seen in a SD miniDV and pretty good in low light. Now that HD cameras are easily at/under $1000 I'm wondering about upgrading. How does the PQ of the new Sony or Canon HDVs compare? Hows the low light ability in 60i? Do you get choppy pans and moving objects or compression artifacts with HDV? Most of the video will be of our kids growing up/vacations, etc. I'll be editing everything on a Mac in iMovie (no HD burner yet -- but can save the .mov for upcoming Blue Ray drives -- or iTV??) and watching everything on either a DLP RPTV or LCD projector in the theater room (ah, LOVE the theater room!!). Thanks.

Corp,

There are a ton of downloadable clips from various HD camcorders online. I would start there to see if you notice any of the issues you were interested in finding out about. I would think that if you're satisfied with the low-light capabilities of your current camcorder, the newer model HD ones won't be far off (if not better).

If you already have an HD set and/or projector and the extra $, I would highly recommend going HD on the camcorder front. I've been shooting HD footage for over 4 plus years and have never looked back.

I'm into my third HD camcorder (got the original JVC HD1 back in 2003) and I'm looking at the Sony HD-SR11 or CX7 for portability.

I you have the Mac hooked up to the RPTV or the projector download a couple of the clips online and let your eyes decide. I'm sure you will be impressed.

Troy