First of all, hi to everyone on the board.

I'm sorry that I had to create another thread like this. I appreciate Mark W created this thread for us.

For the last couple of weeks I have been researching, and found out that HDV miniDV cameras are very reliable for editing.

What I'm looking for is

• HD (Good enough for amateur VFX/CG)
• reliable for editing, mini DV tape compatible? (what is the difference between mini DV & HD DV?)
• Budget ~ US$1800

So far I found
HDRHC9E MiniDV HD Handycam Camcorder
Canon Vixia HV30
Any others???

I'm just not sure which camera is the best for me. I personally want to use the camera for a long run for both home videos and my hobby which is producing CG VFX(visual effects). Some might say that I should go for an expensive camera but cannot afford :/

Thanks for taking time to help me.

daisukem, I just tried to compare chosen HD camcorders by reviews.
Ok. Here are the results:

Sony HDR-HC9E
Score: 8.8 out of 10 based on reviews from 20 sources in 12 countries.

Canon VIXIA HV30
Score: 9.7 out of 10 based on reviews from 76 sources in 19 countries.

So as you can see yourself much more better score has the second camcorder.
As for me - I'm totally agree with the crowd, anyway it's up to you

Thanks Gamla! Anyone got other opinions?

Thanks!