Canon's HV30 has been on sale at bhphotovideo ($600) and is a terrific little camera, especially when run at 24 or 30 fps.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/539289-REG/Canon_2680B001_VIXIA_HV30_...) Be sure to order an extra battery (largest size) at the same time. This camera records to tape.
From advance reviews, the Canon Vixia HF S10 and S100 are even better, but they are not yet out and will no doubt cost more than your $800 figure. I am guessing the reason the HV30 has dropped so much in price is due to the fact it will soon be replaced by the Vixia models, which record, by the way, to flash memory.
Do you have a tripod?
Rick Wise
director of photography
Oakland, CA
www.RickWiseDP.com
email: Rick@RickWiseDP.com
