I'm offering two-camera shoots for conferences and events where I do close-ups with my XH-A1, while leaving a second camcorder stationary at the back for a wide shot. I need suggestions for a second camera that I can just start and forget about knowing that it'll capture a usable, high-quality image. And while I intend to secure it to the tripod (and the tripod to something else), I have to consider that it might get stolen so it should be expendable.

HDD is okay, as long as there isn't too much compression, but MiniDV would be best, as I can use it as a deck too and spare my XH-A1 for captures. 24p is a near-must (althouh I could always do a reverse pulldown).

Any suggestions? I thought about the venerable HV20 and HV30, which I've used before, but I'd prefer something new that I can buy at the local Circuit City and return if it doesn't work out.

Thanks.

I was intrigued to find out more about an "EXPANDABLE second camera". I see, in context, that you meant "expendable".

Good luck with your quest.

Mercy me! There, I've fixed it. Now, any recommendation for an expEndable camcorder?

Canon HV40. You can still get it new:

L.L.Lozeau - Canon Vixia HV40 (http://www.lozeau.com/product.aspx?nav_id=14737&lang_id=F)
Canon HV40 - Price Comparison - Canada's Cheapest Prices (http://www.shopbot.ca/pp-canon-hv40-canon-price-172301.html)

I'd recommend the Canon HV40 also. It's Mini DV, and has 24p. They are actually on a $300 discount through 4/30/10 at bhphotovideo.com.

Thanks Vito and Michael. The local Circuit City (actually Futureshop here) doesn't stock MiniDV camcorders anymore. Glad to see I can still get it.