There is no HD Cameras forum so this is the closest I could find. Currently I have a Sony VX2100 and would like to move up to a flavor of HD. I do more events than docs so even if a DSLR is cheaper and I would love to get one, Shooting a 2 plus hrs of pageant video is not going to cut it. HDV is not a choice either. My price range is less than $4k. I have been doing some research on the JVC HM100 and the Sony HDR AX2000. Both have pluses and minuses but the Sony wins out. The JVC is missing some things that I would like.
Here are some things I like on the Sony:

1. 20x opticle zoom: great when your up high in a auditorium. JVC has a 10x.
2. 1.5 lux: Better than JVC's 5 lux
3. 3 rings for focus, zoom, and aperture. JVC has one with a switch to change to the other.
4. uses SDHC cards
5. HDMI out and component out
6. 1/3 inch CMOS sensor vs. 1/4 on the JVC
7. Can shoot a range from HD to SD

Some things I don't like:

1. records to mp3 audio: This might not be a big deal
2. SD is not supported in FCP

This is not a perfect camera no camera is, but It fits my budget and needs.

I am asking for some thoughts and opinions on this camera or others I might have missed.

Have you looked into the EX3? Solid state, w/ 32Gb capability on two ports. With their codec, you get fully sampled sound on two channels. This is the Achilles heel of the current state of HDSLR. The Canon workflow is also impressive, especially when you can shoot MOS.

If I had the cash that would be one of my choices for sure. I am looking at something on the less than 4k range.

I think that canon would be a good way to go for under 3k, every canon I have purchased I have been happy with.