I know its a little over your budget but a few camera jockies I know recommend:
http://catalog2.panasonic.com/webapp/wcs/s...fModel=AG-DVC30
All of them work for the local news co. and use these
Edit: just talked to one of them and he reccomends:
http://catalog2.panasonic.com/webapp/wcs/s...fModel=AJ-D410A
Waay more expensive...