Hi SLP – I would go with the only shoulder mounted, large sensor, interchangeable lens camcorder with pro XLR mic inputs in your price range – a used Sony NEX-EA50 for less than $3000 from Amazon or eBay.
Whether you plan to shoot commercials, weddings, events, music videos or short films, this camera will do a good all-around job.
Here is what this camera can do in low light:
http://vimeo.com/55858864
Commercial:
http://vimeo.com/68328410
Wedding:
http://vimeo.com/60141876
That said, this camera records to AVCHD – and you may have to transcode to use it with Final Cut Pro. You may want to think about getting a less expensive Windows machine and a $252 copy of Sony Vegas Pro instead.
Hope this is helpful and good luck with your new video career!
Bill
Hybrid Camera Revolution
