Sony Style USA, is offering a HDR-HC1 HDV 1080i Handycam Camcorder starter kit for just $2,199.93. According to reports, the HDV format will help usher in high definition recording into the mainstream aka the average consumer, thanks to its affordable price . Even though the format still has some problems mainly time code issues, ( I heard this at HDV seminar) it is seen at the 'it' format of the future. Since the format is relatively new, video editing software companies are still fighting to wrap their lips around everything HDV. That's the upside, on the downside, High definition has no mercy on the skin, every hole, every scar will be visible.

Features of the HDR-HC1 HDV 1080i Handycam Camcorder

1/3" CMOS sensor with the Enhanced Imaging Processor
Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* lens with 10x optical and 120x digital zoom
2.7" wide (16:9) hybrid touch panel Swivelscreen LCD display1
Super Steadyshot Stabilization

I recently purchased the Sony HVR-A1U 1/3-Inch Professional HDV Camcorder. Features of that include 3-Million Pixel CMOS Imager, DVCAM and Mini DV Recording Options, Professional Audio Inputs and Time Code. It's really small, lightweight/capable entry level introduction to HDV. I think my next HDV camera, hopefully the Panasonic, I will be able to give an intelligent review.