You will likely get more responses if you post your question on the Camcorders Forum.
Here is a link to the Camcorders Forum:
http://forums.cnet.com/camcorders-forum/?tag=TOCleftColumn.0;blankArea.2
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I have decided on Sony as the brand camcorder I want am looking for one under $500 and that offers the hard-disk option. This camcorder doesn't need to be HD, but with good optical zoom and all-around solid camera. Thanks!

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