i stumbled upon this website. i know dv batteries can be pretty expensive and it seems like this person's solution sounds practical. to the veterans in this here website, what say you?

go to:

http://www.sticktowhatyouknow.com/

then click on:

Behind the Scenes

then click on:

Specialized Film Equipment

you'll see 8 thumbnail pics. click on the upper right one. Discuss

You might save a few dollars. You will have to deal with diy wiring and resulting reliability problems. There is no way a battery like this would fit on your camcorder - NiCad batteries are bigger than Li-Ion for the same capacity.
Alex

Homemade battery + expensive camera + OOOPS!!! = No Warranty!

Be careful.

RB

I bought a Lenmar (cheaper brand) battery for my XL1S at around
$50 or so (new) and it lasts like 4 hours or something (not continues
recording). Pretty good and cheap in my opinion. Doesn't always
have to get a brand battery!

Check eBay before you go and build a battery. I got a $60 Sony Li Ion ($13) and a Sony external Battery Charger ($12) + $16 (shipping) = $41. It was shipped from Singapore, though.