Need help purchasing a HD camcorder
 

Sorry, but I've fallen out of the know when it comes to HD camcorders.

I'm looking to spend under $4,000 USD. Preferably I'd like to stick within the 2,000-3,000 range. I'm looking for a camcorder that has a decent lens. It doesn't have to shoot 1080, but that would be nice. Preferably 1080p if it does shoot that resolution, otherwise 720p is a must. I'll be using a mac to edit.

If you have suggestions for camcorders that fall in different price ranges that would be appreciated.

I was looking at the sony HVR FX7 although, I don't know if that's the best in its price range. Thanks for any help.

On the upward end of the scale I was looking at the Canon XH A1. I've always loved Canon, but I haven't heard much about this camera or if it's easy to edit the format it uses.

There aren't many camcorders in your price range which can output 720p/60. The Panasonic AG-HVX200 and the Sanyo Xacti HD1000 are the only ones I'm aware of. JVC's GY-HD250U is another one, but more highly priced.

Most others offer 1080i/60 output. Within the HDV, H.264/AVC and AVCHD specs (which cover most of the models in the range you mentioned), 1080p/60 isn't available as far as I know. It would require a higher bitrate or compression rate, which simply isn't defined in these formats.

Sony V1U
 

Mark,
You should also consider the Sony V1U. It's sort of the "pro version" of the FX7. It has XLR mic inputs, and can shoot progressive at 24fps and 30fps. I think the current "street" price is around $3800.
Ken