Beware of this vendor. Don't put trust in them.

Everyone should have this unit in their arsenal.

The flash-based version of this camcorder was on sale at ZipZoomFly a few days ago for $550. That's a newer model that has 16GB of internal memory, plus the ability to record on SD cards(both recorded in AVCHD format). If you're planning to record video and then edit it on a computer, that's a more convenient way to do it. Plus, the flash based model has 12x zoom, compared to the 10x zoom on this one.

That said, either model is a very capable HD camcorder.

Flash based is more convenient only in the transfer to the computer, once there AVCHD can be a pain compared to MPEG HD (transferred from tape), it's also prone to more compression artifacts. The flash based model has a 12x zoom but it's a smaller diameter, meaning it'll take a hit in light gathering and in resolution. Sound quality is better on the flash based one, as motor noise is quite apparent on the tape based Canon.

i'll pass. waiting for Digic XXXXVII

Absolutely right about the AVCDH & editing #4, however no noticable tape hum on mine(even w/o the external mic).
I use www.resellerratings.com to check most online merchants especially the non-major ones. Remember, google is your friend.

Gimme this one over AVCHD version.

This is the best consumer-level HD cam on the market and this is an excellent price. I've also not had any issues with 6ave before....bought a flat panel TV from them and some other smaller item I can't remember and had no issues either time.

I have the HV20 and do get a little tape hum if I'm not using an external microphone. It's slight and hides in any background noise but it is there, especially when compared to external microphone shots. I wouldn't trade the camera for any other consumer camera, it's simply the best image I've ever seen on a camera for under 3000 dollars, but the tape transport noise is the one advantage I see for flash based cameras in the future. I have not been impressed with AVCHD, it seems that in order to get good results you need to approach a bandwidth of 25mb per second, which is where tape has always been.

good price

I bought the HV10 from 6Ave (through Amazon) and the transaction was great. Got a Coach leather carrying case for $30, too. My big disappointment with the camera is the tape sound. Really annoying. Also, after David Pogue from the NY Times said it was the camcorder to own, I was surprised that the image quality wasn't all that better than my Sony ip5 (micromv).