I'm looking for something similar to what the original poster mentioned. I've read the reviews on cnet and on the website mentioned earlier in this thread. Based on that, I've narrowed my choice down to two options. I'm wondering if any of you have personal experience with either of the two below camcorders.

Canon HV20 - Supposedly not a great exterior, but it has the 24 fps mode which is cool and also is supposed to shoot well in low light. I think some of its advantage in rating is from still pictures which I have no use for.

Sony HDR-HC7 - Better exterior. Good all-around quality. Not as good in low light but has infrared mode.

I'm leaning towards the Canon because of the low light issue.