[CSpaced]

Hey Gang,

The short version:
I'm looking for a new video camera.

The long version:
I'm looking to replace my trusty Sony DCR-IP5, it's almost nine years old now and is starting to show signs of age. Also, the software for loading the video onto the computer is outdated and incompatible with all the latest versions of quicktime, and this new O/S Vista will only download the whole tape instead of only what I want.

So, things I liked about my Sony.
The viewfinder - much easier to track objects (like planes!) than with the side screen. In fact the only time I use the side screen is when I'm showing someone what they just did.
Stereo mic - for getting those warbird passes.
Zoom - it has an awesome 10x optical zoom with super steady shot.
Firewire interface - thats just a given.
It was reliable and I've never had a problem with it.

Things I didn't like.
Stereo mic - for some reason it was right up by my nose so all my video sounds like it was shot by Darth Vader.
MicroMV cassette - umm yeah - not quite the advanced tech they thought it would be.
Battery - would be nice to have had longer battery life.
Weight - it was super light and for the most part that is a good thing except when I'm filming stuff I can't keep the camera steady.
No real ability to alter exposure or film speed.

So what am I looking for in a new camera? Everything!

First of all, I don't want to have to sell off my 33%'er to buy it, and yet I'd like something on a little more of a pro level.
Maybe something with a shoulder mount?
It has to be firewire compatible so I can progressively download video.
It would be nice if I could adjust exposure and film speed (to some degree).
A decent optical zoom is a must.
A good viewfinder, battery life, and all that good stuff.

So for all you camera gurus out there, let's hear what you've got or suggestions you might have. I haven't shopped for a video camera in the last nine years so I'm clueless as to what is available.

Thanks for taking the time to read!
Chris.