What is the very best HD video camera I can get for under $1000?

Canon VIXIA HF M41 Full HD Camcorder with HD CMOS Pro and 32GB Internal Flash Memory

The Canon VIXIA HF M41 Flash Memory Camcorder features a 32GB internal flash drive and dual SDXC%2Dcompatible memory card slots in an ultra%2Dsleek%2C compact and lightweight body %2D convenience and capability wrapped in one package%2E Canon%27s ... read more...

I suggest this one because of its ability to shoot awesome in low light conditions. It also offers outstanding video resolution, amazing sharpness and focus, and smart auto which automatically selects the best settings for scene, distance, lighting, color, etc. Finally, it comes with a touch decoration feature which allows you to decorate your images and then superimpose them. It's a pretty cool camera.

Reply · Send thanks · posted 91 days ago

Canon VIXIA HG20 AVCHD 60 GB HDD Camcorder with 12x Optical Zoom

The Canon HG20 AVCHD Hard Disk Drive camcorder sets a new standard for High Definition, delivering optimal image quality, long shooting times along with the extraordinary ease and versatility when viewing video on television or a computer. Capture... read more...

You need this camera!!!!! You really need this camera. Fantastic optics from Canon, as always. I don't know if there is a better camera company in the world.... of course I am sure many people would disagree with this statement, but I think Canon makes amazing equipment. Here's what this camera will offer you:
-9 Point Ai-AF Mode (auto intelligent autofocus)
-24Mbps (the highest bit rate in AVCHD for High Def video)
-up to 22 hours of HD video on the 60 GB hard disk drive
-genuine Canon 12x High Def video lens
-Canon's SuperRange optical image stabilizer
-amazing image quality!
-intuitive menu layout
Great stuff... you'll be in good hands with Canon.