Both are excellent cameras. Both record a 1920 x 1080 resolution picture which
is, technically, HDV. And both will give you an excellent picture if you light well.

The Panasonic records to memory cards the Sony to tape. There are dozens
of on line sources that will give you a very detailed explanation of AVCHD
and HDV.

I wonder why the salesperson is pushing the Panasonic over the Sony. This
sales person is not telling you the truth. The tape mechanism does not pose
problems in a year or two. I've used Sony cameras for 10 years and longer
with no problems with the tape mechanism.

My last word? You'll be happy with either camera.

Not what you want to hear? Okay. Get the Panasonic.

=============================================
The aim of an argument or discussion should not be victory, but progress.
Joseph Joubert, essayist (1754-1824)

Rather than start a new discussion, I'll use this one.

I, too, am stuck on deciding which camera to get. Only my choices are the HVR-V1 and HVR-A1. Other than the price, is there really a huge difference between these? The A1, I've read, may be problematic in low-light conditions. But I've also ready that it's unoticiable. Which is true? The A1 has a 51 mm lens and the V1 has a 78 mm lens (better)? Still learning all this.

They both have 2 XLR inputs and a mic included. The A1 is a bit smaller than the V1.

Being a newbie in filmmaking, I don't know that I would take full advantage of the extra features, if any, of the V1. But how big of a difference are the two?

certified, would you know?

Venni, Vidi, Vinsi...

I've used both.

They are so close to being identical that even side by side an experienced professional
couldn't tell the difference. I like a bigger camera so I'd go with the A1. And I never
ever base a camera buying decision on it's low light capabilities. I'm a filmmaker who
believes in lighting all my movies.

Toss a coin and buy either one and start making movies. Why are you waiting?