I bought this camcorder two weeks ago. It works as advertised. Be advised the 1.7 zoom feature cannot be activated if the camcorder is recording. BE WARNED - batteries are very expensive ($120-$225)and must be special ordered. Several sites offer discounted batteries but do not have them in stock. When you place your order they call you to get you to switch to a cheap ($20-$50) generic battery that does not communicate with the camcorder, that is you don't know how much power is left in the battery. If you choose to use this battery you must tell the camcorder to use it every time you start recording.

If you want this camcorder, be sure to order the batteries through your local camera shop, the internet is a little to dicey.

The lack of a viewfinder is annoying as well. I though I could get by without it but the drain on the included battery (1 hr max at hi rez) makes the lack of a viewfinder mystifying.

I don't have buyers remorse but given the battery situation and the lack of a viewfinder makes me think I should have waited for the next incarnation.