It is not feasible at this stage of the HD production world, to invest ANY significant amount of money into a camera & format with a limited production life expectancy. Spending anything above $1,500 (and maybe even THAT much) for a SD only camera, if you plan to keep a viable production business going, isn’t wise.
That has nothing to say against, or do with, SD vs HD production. Those having SD equipment, and the client base to keep using it are equally wise to avoid investing too early in HD production/editing. Those getting into the business, or ready to move to HD, or being pounded (doubtful) by their client base to provide/offer HD production, would be wise to go ahead with HD rather than spending money on SD and limiting their business potential over the next 12-to-15 months.
