which is the best HD dvd camcorder but not too pricy

Hi, Katherine.
If you are looking for an inexpensive compact HD camcorder that is easy to use in fully auto mode and still have some manual functions and effect features to have fun with, then I am recommending the Canon HV10. It has a very high video and still picture quality. The HV10 delivers great video quality in both wide screen and standard TV format, Plus high quality 3.1 MP still photos. The built in video light makes it convenient for short distance low light conditions. Its the biggest bang for your HD bucks on the market. Its also the most compact in design compared to other camcorders, some like the aesthetic design some don't, but since its not a fashion show it should not be a concern for the performace you get in that price range.

Media format:
The Canon HV10 uses MiniDV tapes, they are cheap, they are reliable, and easily archivable. MiniDV tapes is a preferred choice by professionals because tapes are more computer friendly with computers and works like a charm with editing software and burning the best quality DVDs. You can find DV tapes at your 7/11 or your local Stop and Shop and probably in any city in the world. If you are planning to do any video editing to cut out unwanted scenes or video transferring to make DVD copies, you will need to stay from DVD disc camcorders. DVD disc camcorders were designed for consumers to have an instant DVD disc, shoot & play and avoiding computers. The hard drive camcorders are nice for big media storage, but they also have their own issues, plus the quality won't be as good as miniDV tapes for making transferred DVD copies. Incase you are sold on a hard drive HD camcorders, you will need to reconsider your price range.
.
Software:
The HV10 comes with the Digital Solutions disc, V.23, which contains some basic editing software and the necessary driver. You can also avoid the computer by recording DVDs directly on a DVD burner like the Sony DVDirect - VRD-MC1 external dvd recorder.

Portability:
The HV10 measures 56mm x 90mm x 29mm and weighs in at 440g (15.5 oz.) making this the most compact 1080i HDV camcorder to date. Canon has pulled off a significant achievement in miniaturizing the HV10 as much as they have.

Widescreen/16:9 Mode:
The native 16:9 CMOS sensor, the widescreen TV, and of course, the widescreen-by-definition HDV format all make for a great widescreen feature set. You can also shoot standard definition DV in either 16:9 or 4:3, options selected in the first subset of the administrative menu.

Optical Image Stabilization:
The OIS (optical image stabilization) system on this camcorder is impressive, in fact it may be the best I have seen on a camcorder this compact. In full telephoto mode with OIS engaged, its possible to hold a shot quite steady. OIS systems are superior to the EIS (electronic image stabilization) systems found on most consumer camcorders because EIS systems sacrifice some image quality while OIS systems do not.

Canon HV10 under $699 -best price I have found
http://www.thedigitalexpo.com/product.asp?productid=hv-10&tab=1
Main site
http://www.thedigitalexpo.com/

I Hope this advice answers your question. If you need any further advice to your question just ask in the reply box below.

Thanks!

Happy Shopping!