What do people think of this cam? At about $1200 it's in a sweet price range for me, but should I just suck it up and spend the money on a GL2, VX2000, etc.?
I've been shooting on digital8 for a number of years and I am making films just for the fun of it. But now I'd like to move to a minidv system.
My next big project will be a solo documentary on the Harley Davidson 'Ride Home' and party. It will be three weeks on a motorcycle from Seattle to Milwaukee and back, so size is of a concern too.
Any suggestions would be helpful.

thanks,
c

For about $150 more, you can get a Panasonic PV-DV953. This cam should be available within a week or 2.

The GL2 and VX2000 are a lot more money. Depending on the features you need these are all good cams. This is how I would rate them:

for low light
1) VX2000
2) GL2
3) AG-EZ50U
4) PV-DV953

for resolution and picture quality
1) PV-DV953
2) AG-EX50U
3) VX2000 / GL2

for features
1) PV-DV953
2) AG-EZ50U
3) GL2
4) VX2000

Compare the specs for yourself to see what features you think are most important for you.

The dv953 looks like it may work for me. I had been toying with the idea of importing an MX500, but I'll hang tight some more and see when the 953 comes out.

You're lucky. I only have a 1974 BMW (R75/6).