Recommendations for DV Cam..

[eGoCeNTRoNiX]

Hey Guys.. I'm looking to buy myself a DV Cam to take place of my current digicam (DX3500) Not looking to spend too much more than $400 as it will be a christmas present to myself. I would appreciate links to any you'd recommend, I've done a little searching on my own. Just want something I'll be able to pull off the cam and straight to my PC for DVD/CD-R buring of my videos and easy access to the pictures I might take.. TIA eGo

[eGoCeNTRoNiX]

Anybody got one they feel is worth my going to look at? I'll probably end up having to go to BB (about 3 hours away) Also, is it a "worthy" replacement for a regular Digital camera? Or should I have one of those as well? TIA eGo

[nexus_7]

Friend of mine has a Sharp dv that is pretty nice and didnt cost all that much. I have an expensive sony.

Greg

[eGoCeNTRoNiX]

Well, I've pretty much been told I will be getting a MiniDV cam for Xmas from my dad. I just have to tell him which one and it has to be under $400. (He said $500 but I've got other stuff I'd like him to get as well.) I have narrowed it down to the following makes and models and need more help from you guys who know more about this stuff. I plan on using this for Home Movies as well as for Photography and Review purposes. I know very little about Camcorders in general so all of your input is welcomed!

Here are the models I have narrowed it down to (If you have one in that price range you'd like to throw in please do do!!!!!

Samsung :
SCD23
SCD67
SCD80
SCD56

Panasonic :
PVDV51
PVDC252

JVC :
GR-DVL300U
GR-DVL505U
GR-DVL520U

I'm guessing they're supposed to be better the higher the number gets, but when browsing the specs on some sites info was left out for the specs between the different models so it was hard for me to tell. I know there are some DV Cam gurus out there who can help me make the right choice! I will also be doing my own research to see what I can find out, but like I said, I don't even know what to look for. I was basing most of my decisions on the features offered (NitePix, Infared, 10X optical zoom or better, FireWire or USB 2.0 etc..) and the price. TIA