I got the HC90 a couple of months ago. I did a lot of research. I was between the Sony DCR-PC1000, Sony DCR-HC90 and the Panasonic PV-GS250. My main concern was low light performance vs. the 3-chip color performance. The HC90 has the best low light of any camcorder I've read reviews on, but the color is not as good as the PC1000(according to other users, I have not personally tested or seen video of the PC1000). I found a website by another HC90 user that put my HC90 color worries to a rest. He has posted several video clips that show different lighting situations. I found the color of the HC90 to be true to life in his videos (check out the video of the yellow flower).
http://www.disneyfunsite.com/hc90_clips.htm
I have not regretted getting my HC90. I find it easy to use. I was surprised how small and lightweight it was. Hope this helped...Nicole
I am looking to purchase a new camcorder to shoot video of live bands, which as you can guess, is generally in very poor lighting situations. I was all ready to get the Panasonic PV-GS250 when I started hearing reviews of it's terrible low light function.
Can anyone recommend a camcorder that does really well in very dark action shots? Preferably under $1000. Good sound would be a plus as well, but for now I am more concerned with the lighting factor. THANKS!!

Chowhound
Comic Vine
GameFAQs
GameSpot
Giant Bomb
TechRepublic