BUT, AVCHD footage is NOT

BUT, AVCHD footage is NOT the same quality as true HD footage. Way more compressed, and nothing you do will change that reality.

Format AND camera considerations HAVE to be based on your professional (if professional) and/or personal/amateur needs, wants AND what your prospective clients prefer. The more universal your equipment and format, and editing/production are, the easier it will be if you are looking for commercial production compliance.