hi guys, im just about ready to get my camera but i wanted some feedback first. basically the things that are important to me are that it is less than 3500, it shoots hdv, it can shoot 24p and it has xlr inputs. i have a couple cameras in mind but just wanna hear your guys' suggestions.
Thanks a lot!

Depending on your experience level, I'd say get a Canon XH A1. It's HDV (blah), 24p, less than 3500 and has two XLR inputs. It has an iris ring, which I like because then all the lens stuff is with the lens (who'da thought). The only thing is that the LCD is a little small. But if you hook up an external monitor or something like that, or if you prefer the viewfinder anyhow then whatever. I've been shooting on that camera for the past year and it makes some very beautiful video. It gives you a lot of in camera control over the image if you want to get way into the menus (custom presets).

There's really nothing else that's the same price or cheaper that would be a better option.

But then again there may always be something revolutionary around the corner.

If you need the camera now, get the XH A1, hands down.

yea thanks that was what i was already thinking. if i didnt care as much about the xlrs would you still recommend the a1? i was also looking at the fx1000, what do you think? are there any other cameras you would recommend? thanks a lot.

I have not used the fx1000, and hadn't heard of it before now. It looks basically like the Sony version of the A1. But, I don't know because I haven't used it, so I can't really recommend it. I have used the FX1 which seems like the prepreprecursor to this one. It was a very good camera. The LCD was gorgeous, so if that's the same or better that's a plus.

There's not really all that much in the price range. Panasonic has some AVCHD options, but I don't particularly like that format. I don't particularly like HDV either. They're both compressed way too much and in a bad way (IMHO). If you wanted to save for a little bit higher end camera, I'd say look into the Sony XDCAM EX series or Red Scarlet (which at the moment doesn't have any current information about it because they decided to completely revamp it).

If you need something now, based entirely on my personal experience with the camera, I'd say go for the XH A1. This is a film I shot with it - Satori

The FX1000 has some new sensor technology which is very interesting and seems like it should provide some better resolution.

Again, the fx1000 is just as good or probably better than the A1. So, I dunno. If you can get a hold of one, try it out.