I was looking for an inexpensive but nice mini-dv camcorder and this is what I found.  Canon has a couple of other models with added features but this base model was perfect for me.  I was wanting mini-dv and firewire for easy import of video to my computer.  Video quality is pretty decent.  If I had a chance to do over again, I probably would have gotten the ZR850 instead due to the megapixel image sensor for video.  I do not regret this purchase though.  It fires up quick for those moments when my son is doing something cute.