Perhaps you'd consider something inbetween the two. There's always the Cannon XL1, still uses the DV format but has a lot of usability features over the VX1000. In particular, unlike the VX1000 it's possible to alter your exposure, shutter speed, white balance, audio levels, etc. without too much difficulty -while shooting-.(posted 9283 days ago)Another member posted something about the DSR having a more "professional" look. That can be a plus or minus... having an intrusive camera can be a minus if you're looking to do some types of documentary work. If you'd still like the "pro" look, the Cannon XL1 definately delivers. I've been shooting around DC, where there are beta video crews in abundance. It's not unusual for them to ask questions if I've got the Cannon out. The VX1000 just blends in with the tourists.
For the big difference, with the Cannon you can get the EOS lens adapter ($450+) and use any of the Cannon EOS lenses. This leads to a magnification, which means to get anything near a reasonable wide angle shot you'll want to use a 15 or 17mm lens with a .42 or so wide angle lens adapter. The advantage of this system is that it lets you do rack focusing. Both the VX1000 and XL1's base lenses have this strange servo focusing, that makes marking focus points on the lens for a shot impossible. Very troubling. With the XL1 and this setup you can get around this problem, AND get some great glass.
-- John