i ended up going with the sony hdr-hc3 HDV camera... it's not as nice as some of the 3CCD units, but it's HD and it's here now, so I figure why not shoot the project in HD? It was fairly expensive, with the camera coming in at 1300, the tripod 125, case, good battery, wide-angle lens, etc. totalled well over 2000, but oh well if it works i'll make far more than that in sales.

Good info though, I'd love to chat video w/ you some time!!!

Take care!