Ok

[Monie]

What are the pros and cons of modestly priced cameras? I mean from the PD170 to the HVRA1U?

[ACPOSSETIM]

for one the pd170 does not have HD capabilities, one thing to look for is the LUX rating the lower the number the better low light performance. Also you should have XLR inputs for your mics. Some of the newer cameras have higher optical zoom I have the sony hvr-z1u and it has a 12x zoom (I think) where as some of the new sony's have got a 20x. You should decide what you want in a camera and then compare the models that fall into your interest area. I personally love my sonys but have not really had much experience with the other brands

[bullmoose38]

There is alot of different options out there. You will need to decide whats important for you. My biggest thing i wanted was a camera good in low light. Thats why i picked the PD-170. Plus it has the ports for wireless mics.

[Monie]

Are there any other options to consider?

[bullmoose38]

Originally Posted by Monie

Are there any other options to consider?

Well its up to you... Do you want the zoom to be important? The lux? (which determines how good it films in low light) And theres other options......