You are looking at 1/2 inch chips by Sony, JVC and Panasonic----You will get a pro camera and that will require the purchase of a seperate lens. Just check out the sites---all of them are excellent instruments.
Easy, Sony PD-150, fantastic camera, I've had mine for over a year now and I shoot everything from live events to indy movies. I shot an entire scene lit only by firelight, amazing low light performance.
I know there were a couple of new amazing DV cameras presented at NAB. Search for news articles from there or at magazine sites or go to your local magazine dealer and sneak-read between the shelves.
I use the excellent Sony PD-150. Many TV-stations here in Sweden use it as a minimum alternative to their expensive cameras since it's 3 CCD. Got a good deal including Sony Freedom wireless mic, maybe you can to. Bought a Canon WD-58 wide angle lens and a Sennheiser K6 with ME64 mic. Also a camera mount battery light, Sony HVL-20DW2. I use it with Vegas on my laptop and everything fits in a backpack (well, except for the tripod). Fast, portable and fun!
stormstereo - Same setup here BUT with the cheaper Canon XM2 3CCD - love it love it.
Canon WD-58 wide angle lens - Superb got it woth the Hood
Sennheiser K6 with ME64 mic - Fits into the Canon Hotshoe & beautiful sound characteristics. The Canon Hot shoe has 2x XLR and lanc connections PLUS a BNP.