There's a huge rivalry between the Canon GL-2 mini DVD camcorder and the Sony VX 2000. The GL-2 was designed as a replacement for one of Canon's most popular camcorders, the GL-1, which came state-of-the-art with three CCDs. Advanced features include a 20 times lens, great image quality, and exciting audio control that gives you two channels to manipulate your sound.

The Canon GL-2 is a relatively lightweight machine, but the 1.7 megapixel still image mode is somewhat underwhelming. After all, if you really want to take high-resolution snapshots, you might as well splurge for an advanced digital camera, like the EOS Digital Rebel XT or the Nikon D-70. That being said, the GL-2 excels in terms of providing a film-like look. It shoots at 30 frames per second--pretty fast for a simple mini DVD camcorder.

Customers have complained that the Canon line of camcorders degrades somewhat over time, at least as far as the video head is concerned. One rather irate reviewer suggested that his video head problem cost him hundreds of dollars to repair. Of course, he also boasted about his camera's amazing color and image quality.

One factor to consider is that the GL-2 has an in-camera omnidirectional microphone standard. This should not be a problem if you are just taking home videos or vacation videos, but if you're recording long distance speeches or using this camera to make short films, you definitely want to get a microphone attachment. You should also get a rechargeable battery, since the standard battery provided with the GL-2 is only average in duration.