Do you want to use tape or

Do you want to use tape or memory cards?

I use a Panasonic HMC150 and a Canon HF200 (tiny, hence very portable) and love the image quality from both cameras. They are both card based and record in AVCHD.

For tape-based cameras, the Canon XH-A1s, Sony Z5U are good choices (both have XLR audio, for example).

Another option to consider is a DSLR like the Canon EOS 5D Mark II.

These are just a few suggestions – hoping to hear from others with more experience. All the best!