On Fri, 21 Jul 2000 09:39:00 +0100, "The Dude" wrote:

Hi--

>Any suggestions on what the best camera for semi por use?
>The Canon or the Sony. Is it just a matter of opion or preference or are
>there any real advantages with either machine?

The XL-1 and several others are reviewed on my web page,
(look under "I babble"). I am checking out a VX-2000
now. For sound quality/control, I would rate the
XL-1 outstanding - the best of the bunch. For picture
quality and ease of use of basic lens controls, the
"picture" is quite different: I didn't like either
of two samples tried of the XL-1 very much. The VX-2000
picture appears to be in a league of its own: sharper
in all light levels than other 3-chip Mini-DV camcorders
(I have not tried the JVC 500, though...), with excellent
color, and really outstanding low-light picture quality.
If sound is paramount, take the XL-1; if the picture is
(a little playing with the custom controls is useful...),
take the VX-2000 (or PD-150).