Digital Videocam purchase - need tips on what to look for/avoid

[MichaelD]

I need to buy a videocamera. I know I want a DV cam that uses DV tapes and Optical Zoom>Digital Zoom, but other than that, I'm clueless.

What do I look for? Avoid?

Looking to spend as little as possible...preferably about $600-$700 or less.

Thanks!

 

[MichaelD]

???