Ha, that's the first time I've heard an XL2 described positively in terms of ergonomics! I do like the fact that Canon uses physical controls for most basic camera functions, but an FX1 is much more ergonomically friendly (in terms of being able to hand hold it) than an XL2.

Regarding video cameras for personal use, I'm starting to see some videographers buying HDV cameras for just that purpose, because they understand that *their* most important memories should be preserved in the higher resolution viewing format of the future. Plus I can't imagine anyone using an XL2 for their home videos unless they couldn't spare a few hundred dollars for a more portable DV camera, and even then no.

The XL2 is one of the few SD cameras I would still recommend to anyone at this time because it has a true widescreen recording mode, but after testing the XL2 against all the latest HD cameras I bought another HDV camera. Different strokes for different folks.