just recieved HC7..wondering what mic. and camera light would be best. is there a way to attach a light and mic at the same time? thanks

I bought a 3W Sony lamp, the HVL-HL1 a few months ago, and it works with the HC7. I do not recommend it. It's coverage isn't great and it gives off little light.

There's a 10W model, the HVL-10NH. Bear in mind you need to buy 4 AA 2500mah rechargeable batteries and a charger along with it (either sony's or everready's, the 4 AA's and charger combos cost about $20-$30 most places). It would be a better choice I think but still probably not real good.

I was tempted for a long time to get the MX601 from Bescor, it uses an external battery pack and offers what appears to be better lighting. In the end I thought the external pack might be a pain, if I got it I would get the smallest battery pack and self limiting charger. You can find the bescor products at B&H photo.

For now I just try and deal with lighting as I can, using off camera light sources when available. If I wanted on-camera lighting I would consider the Bescor and 10W sony models.