There IS NO “prosumer” cam

There IS NO “prosumer” camcorder for around 1,500 bucks new.

There IS a really, really nice entry level high definition camera, the Canon HV30, that records true HD to MiniDV for under $900. Great starting point for amateurs, hobbyists, semi-pros, and is even getting a lot of use from so-called professionals as backup or third camera, even playback unit for ingesting into their respective editing systems.