> "I'll check out the FX7, but don't I need to upgrade all my peripheral equipment as well, i.e. DVD burners, etc?"
The FX 7 makes the transition to HD more convenient by allowing you to record in both HD or Standard Definition. Though it is nice to have a powerful computer, today's standard computers can hadle moderate HD projects. Most NLE's now support HD.
You will still be able to use your current DVD Burner even if you shoot in HD.  HD video can still be used to make a Standard Defition DVD...Some people claim that HD converted to SD is still better than regular SD.
Also, if you shoot in HD instead of SD, you can always down convert the footage to SD if needed.Â
I have a buddy that always shoots events in HD eventhough some customers just want SD...It's always nice to have the HD footage for future use if needed and it makes a great selling point.
> "I forgot to ask - which is the best point and shoot camera? Meaning, once the white balance is set, which records best in auto mode?"
I think all four of the cameras function on the smae principle and will require an equal amount of competance to operate.
   Â