Was considering this for my new camcorder. Anyone out there have one that can comment on whether it is worth the money?

It's not out in the UK just yet, although I just pre-ordered it this morning

you may want to wait a couple of months ...or at least a few more weeks ... as prices on the new models are sure to decline. The HV20 introduction in April (@$1099 list) should cause the Sony models to be more competitive after their initial introduction.

Best Buy in Brookfield, WI had the HC5 in stock today. He also said he didn't believe they would stock the HC7. Overheard him talking to a prospective customer and he was pushing the HV10.