I really wanted to use the dcr-pc9e,but trying to think of other options i have.Just looked at a clip i did with my kodak zi8,and its not too bad,so maybe that's a safer option.Just really wanted to use the sony for a hard copy on tape,thats the main reason,and just not sure if the kodak will last the whole set,but i dont plan on doing loads of zooms.I also have a canon hv30,but no hdv tapes for it,and dont like to use standard def tapes in that machine.So for size,convinience,i think the kodak has won,so now just need to hope i can get it all filmed.Incase anyone is interested the band im taping is the beat.