On Wed, 19 Jun 2002 07:10:31 GMT, doug lauber wrote:

[......]
> Yes, using all of the manual settings is usually the way
>I like to work, since I use mostly controlled lighting and
>pre-planned shots. I found the original XL-1 was a little
>softer when in full wide angle setting, even when using various
>apertures.

Have you looked at the JVC 500 and Panasonic 200, if you
prefer manual control?

> I'm waiting for the affordable camcorder that captures
>images that are as sharp as the VX2000, with XLR inputs,
>a lens that is wide enough, 16:9 capability and with audio as good as the
>XL-1. I was hoping the GY-DV300 was the ticket, but folks
>haven't been impressed with it. -doug

Try a PD150 with a Raynox .66X or the Sony HG .7X
on it - optical performance remains very high at
the short end, even "wide-open" in the corners
(but the converter route retains the stabilization,
offers a wider zoom range, and is cheaper than the
Canon WA solution). Also, check out the PD150 sound
for yourself - you may find that what you read is
not what you hear...;-) No true 16:9, though, with
the PD150 (or Canon) - look at the JVC 700 for this...