Best camcorders under $500?

What are some that really stand out?

I'm looking for something that is HD, atleast 720p. I will be using it to make films(i won't be video blogging).

I have looked into a few but there are so many that it's giving me a headache. The Sony Webbie MHS-CM1 looked good at first but then i watched some videos of it on youtube and i wasn't impressed, the frame rate is awful and the mic picks up too much crap outside. On the other hand the Sony Handycam HDR-CX100 looked fantastic, though it is a bit pricey.

I'd just like to get the best value for my money though.

HD 1080p. I love it. I use it all the time.

It doesn't have a hardrive, but I prefer an SD anyway. :)

Thanks. any one opinions?