Canon XM2 -

I am a professional wedding and special events videographer and have three of the Canon XM2 camcorders as well as a Canon XL1 and XL1S.
Generally speaking, I love and prefer the XM2 to the larger XL models - although the XL's 'look more professional' and have some additional versatility but regularly stay in the cases while I use the XM2's.
Picture quality is superb, ergonomics reasonable, size makes them excellent for reportage and discrete filming. I have only one real caveat - the tape transport mechanism seems very fragile and two of my three machines have suffered from the infamous 'remove cassette' syndrome and have recently been sent for servicing to Lehmans of Derby (who can be highly recommended for their excellent service). I tend to rewind using cheaper handycams 'just in case'. This is the problem, I am now fearful that valuable one off material will be lost. I have lost faith in the mechanism despite the fact the problem has not returned since the servicing.
Results are, however, most impressive - as long as an external microphone is used. I use Senheisser microphones for speeches etc. If the ambient sound is loud then the built in microphone is adequate.
I have invested a great deal in Canon equipment but have lost faith with the mechanism which is a pity because picture quality is fantastic. When I go HD I shall move over to Sony.