best minidv camcorder to buy-easily edit to DVD via PC

Archived from groups: rec.video.desktop (More info?)

Which minidv camcorder do you own? Could anyone offer advise? I am
shopping for my first camcorder. I am looking in the $300-400 range.

Important features looking for:
good quality output to computer
easy to get video from camera to various brands of editing software
16x or better zoom
good low light quality (to use mostly indoors)
external battery charger
color viewfinder

Any particular brand more PC friendly than others?
Which is better usb or firewire? why?

Thanks for your help.