Colin I bought an HV40 late last year and don't regret it at all (I actually liked the idea of purchasing a dying format!). It's a great camera. I did look at AVCHD cameras of a similar quality and price but read nothing really that convinced me there was any point in them until the codec is as easily editable as HDV. As long as tapes are still available and until the camera wears out I'll stick with tape since I can see no major reason not to. It goes without saying that so many so-called innovations are simply marketing ploys and/or 'we must keep up with the Jones's'. It's almost like a disease and as a awkward type I'll resist their advances. Dave B's post is spot in in my view.