What kind of camcorder/video-camera should I buy?

Question by JesSIca: What kind of camcorder/video-camera should I buy?
I’m looking to buy a camcorder. I have a Canon dc210, but I’m not happy with it. I’m going to start a film-making club at my high-school, and I’m going to make short movies and try to eventually enter them into local film-festivals. (I also write my own screenplays, act..etc.)

I’d like to upgrade to a professional, but I can’t afford anything over $ 800 right now (I’m 15 but I’m getting a job soon…haha)

I was looking at the Sony HDR-CX12 and Canon VIXIA HF100.

*I need an external mic input, and I’d like a mic input too. Manual focus, white balance are nice. Is that all too much to ask for what I can afford?

(**I’d really appreciate links, especially from sites like Amazon. Thank you so much!)
Opinions on the Canon HV30?
Can I find a camera that records on SD cards?

Best answer:

Answer by Force9000
Sanyo Xacti VPC-FH1 is a nice camera and only $ 500

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