is what I got. Sony has great low light performance, and this model has 20X optical zoom.
http://www.sonystyle.com/is-bin/INTERSHOP.enfinity/eCS/Store/en/-/USD/SY_BrowseCatalog-Start?CategoryName=dcc_DICamcorders_MiniDVHandycamCamcorders&Dept=cameras
Go to pricegrabber.com for the lowest price. I paid $348.85 for mine in March.
I am looking at a Panasonic AG DVC30, but they seem impoosible to find to buy (west coast). I am needing a camcorder that operates well in low lighting and has descent sound, preferably automatic--to be used primarily for dance recitals and dance/martial arts competition. The lighting at most of these events are low/stage lighting. I need something that will zoom well enough to get clear video from the back of an auditorium. I obviously don't understand a lot about specs, etc. Please help me find a camera that should hopefully live up to my expectations.

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