Canon HV20

Pros: High Quality Optics for a low price

Cons: Poorly designed, cheap quality frame

Summary: I have been doing allot of research on 2 camcorders. The Canon HV20 and the Sony HC7 and that is why I am so suprised that Cnet dropped the ball on this one. Now before you say anything let me give you two points of reference.

These guys know there business.

http://www.camcorderinfo.com/

Independant testing/comparison of both Camcorders. Sadly in German, however you can download the video samples taken from both cameras.

http://www.fxsupport.de/21.html#

My own personal testing and research has came to the conclusion that the Canon HV20 and the Sony HC7 have very little differance in Full Light shots. However when you take both cameras into a Low light situation, the Canon stands out with a brighter and cleaner picture then the Sony HC7.If you dont believe me. See for yourself by going to

http://www.fxsupport.de/21.html#

and downloading the video samples from both cameras (especially the low light/ night footage) and judge for yourself. The videos are pretty large but if you have DSL or faster it should be no problem.