consumer grade miniDV - HDV format - camcorder is the Sony HDR-HC9 (no native 24p, but Sony's simulated version of "Cineframe".
With Canon, the jump is from the HV40 to the XHA1 - and beyond. With Sony, there's the HVR-HD1000, HDR-FX7, HVR-A1U and HDR-FX1000. None do native 24p...
None of these are (new) will meet your budget requirement. Assuming the (used) HV40 has not been used a lot is in good shape and everything is in working order, it is a good camcorder.
Im looking to make some shortfilms and thus as one would guess need a camera. I shall narrow down what I am looking for, essentially a higher end canon vixia hv40, that still records with a mini-dv tape, shoots in 1080i has the option for 24p and has an external mic jack like the vixia. Basically what can I compare to this camera? Also Im looking sub $600 range, which I can buy a used vixia for. One last thing, should i just get the canon or is there something better? Thanks

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