Howdy Smartie .... I am a first time camcorder owner. Bought a Sony DVD-405 about 4 months ago. Extremely happy I chose this model. Did research - as you are doing. Settled on the DVD format because it was easy to use - and I found that to be true. I use non-Sony mini DVD+RW Memorex disks. Another reason for my choosing disks is I am handy around a comuter and am use to using disks. Easy for me to format the disk - in the camera. Same with finalizing the disk when I want to transfer the image to my computer - the process makes the disk readable. 2 minutes of video or 60 minutes ( in LP ) - whatever. Disk is readable in my computer DVD and I transfer the file(s) wherever I want them in my system. Put the disk back in the camera and re-format the disk ( approx 1 minute ) and use it again. I do keep formatted disks handy - in the camera case - if I need to change a full disk - format it later.
The files in my computer are stored for me to play anytime or burn to a DVD disk when I want to or edit with whatever Movie software. No complicated software, just move the files to wherever you want them. They are ready to use, they have been finalized. I have read that you need special software to transfer to your computer. Put the disk in the DVD and transfer the files with Windows Explorer (or a similar program, I use Windows Commander as an Explorer replacement).... can not be easier !
Have used the SF, F and LP settings. My terms for SuperFine, Fine and Long Play - describing the 3 image quaility settings I have. Of course SF is outstanding, but I an using LP because the image is great and I get 60 minutes on a disk. Have yet to use 60 mintues in a session ...
I have zero complaints with this camera or the disk format - in fact having read about the editing problems using tape was another reason for buying this format.
Hope this helps ..