In choosing between the GL2 and the XL2, bear in mind that you will be shooting very poor audio in bleak contrast to the outstanding video until you manage to invest in sound equipment.

What are you going to be shooting?

I had same dillema...and bought XM2 (GL2) and for difference in price i afford myself XLR adapter, pro mic and decent tripod. That was 2 years ago and i still don't feel that i need something "better" for my needs and expectations. It serves just beautiful as a backup camera for my bigger kit. And like most people on this forum would agree, this cammie can produce some stunning images.

Having a Gl2 is like having a toaster, no home is complete without one. :}

Accessories
 

I agree that even a wide angle is not very useful. The most important things : a large battery, a bag, a lot of tapes and do a lot of shooting. Maybe a shotgun mic is useful for shooting live performances. To avoid tear and wear to your GL2, you may consider buying a cheap DV cam to rewind your tapes and as a second cam. The footage of my GL cam does not play very well in my second cam(sometimes no sound). You may take one recorded tape of your GL and put it in the second cam to try before buying.

Kenneth

GL2 on the Cheap
 

Just picked up a refurbished GL2 in perfect (waranteed) condition from techforless. Their stock is irregular, but I am sure you can find a refurbished unit in the $1600 range for this model. Make sure it carries some sort of warranty if it is a refurb - usually just open box stock anyway...mine is perfect.