excellent, and both Canon and Sony are experienced makers of video cameras. Panasonic is not, and I am not familiar with their camera.
Have you looked at the Sony PD170? It is a low end pro camera, and has XLR mic input. I don't think Canon has anything other than the XL2, which is excellent, at that price point. I think the XL2 has a higher price than the PD170.
which is suitable for a serious shooter or a semi-pro shooter
Canon GL2 , Panasonic AG-DVC30 or Sony DCR-VX2100

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