Question about DVC Pro HD
 

I am thinking about getting a Panasonic VTR that records in DVC Pro HD. Now after reading up about this i saw that it actually downconverts the signal then compresses it.

I just basically want to know how the final product looks? Can you notice down conversion? Is this one of the best solutions? I just want a VTR with HD-SDI inputs and wont cost me 50 large. I know i cant get away with no conversion, but what's the best bang for the buck?

Jon