In message , Grumps
writes
Just a quick note; I saw the HC42E on ebuyer for £324.99 (no stock though).

You'd be far better bidding for one of the brand new Sony DCR-TRV30Es
currently on Ebay.

Functionally and performance-wise, the TRV30E is very similar to the
later top-end Sonys - TRV80, HC85 etc. With the advantage that it
doesn't rely on the touch-screen for operation.

--
Tony Morgan
http://www.camcord.info