For the kind of work you are doing and the level of expense involved, I think DV is the way to go.
Going so-called "HDD" at the consumer/prosumer level involves the extra expense/problematic storage situation I attempted to describe above.
I assumed that you were asking a question about the the so-called "HDD" built-in consumer camcorder storage system and not
an external hard drive system or some other pro-end file storage system
like XDCAM EX.
If you intend to stay Standard Definition (SD) and not go High Definition (HD) then possibly seeking out a used Sony PD-170, PD-150, VX- 2000 or VX-2100 would be a good idea.
Each of these offer amazing low-light/natural-light capabilities and a spectacular image... at very affordable prices, especially now with the change-over to HD happening.
If you want to switch up to HD at this point, there are numerous Sony choices at the consumer/prosumer level.
Here's one very high-quality 3CCD unit that uses tape-
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/461818-REG/Sony_HVRV1U_HVR_V1U_HDV_Ca...
This one is a good-quality Single CCD unit that uses tape-
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/384527-REG/Sony_HVRA1U_HVRA1U_HDV_Cam...
There are numerous other choices.
Its an interesting time to be investing in video gear with the change to broadcast HD in the forefront.
