Advice Please...ZR300 v. Optura 400/500 v. DCR HC42 v HC90 ?

Just wonder have you made decision yet? I am on the same boat but don't know which one is better. I had a Sony Hi-8 and really love its video quality and its easy to use. This time I am considered buying the one which has both video recording and capture a still image at the same time. So, I don't have to carry both camcorder and digital camera. Since the Sony DCH-HC 42 only has 1Meg still image while Canon Optura 400 has upto 2Meg. I don't know how good both of these camcorder can capture a still image. Optura 400/500 price is higher but now Canon offers rebate before they discontinue this optura models.

I thought I would offer some help for those of you who are looking for a good camcorder around $400. I'm not quite sure why you would compare Canon ZR300 with Sony HC-42. The Canon model corresponding to HC-42 is Elura 90.
There are two great expert reviewers out on the web. One is www.camcorderinfo.com. The second one is www.dvspot.com. I prefer dvspot because all reviewers are subjective but I have followed Steve's advice on a digital camera and his opinions were right on.
In short, I was in the same boat as you. I ended up buying the Canon Elura 85. The ZR300 is not bad but has terrible motor noise. The Sony HC-42 was a close competitor, but several factors played in its demise. First, it was too small to be used comfortably with one hand, Check this out for yourself. Second, it was too expensive compared with what you got. Third, its video quality in low light was worse than the Elura. Fourth, you have to carry the docking station around with you if you go on vacation.
If you think Optura camcorders also consider the Panasonic three CCD camcorders. They often get good reviews, especially for video quality. However, ther are pricier. I got my Elura 85 for less than $400 with shipping. Hard to beat.
Hope this helps
Thanks