Replying to Help me out...

So I sold my vx2 this summer because I wasn't sure if I wanted to keep filming. Now I'm thinking of getting a DVX but I don't know if its worth it considering I have no real "training" (or whatever you want to call it) in filming/ film making. It seems like a pretty expensive camera to buy for not really knowing what I'm doing. I'm decent at editing to the extent at which I can add titles, transitions and that sort of thing in FCP but I want to maybe take a few classes on how to use FCP to its full potential since I know I'm pretty much just scratching the surface. (I want to learn how to interlace and Import properly into the right format for smoother footage etc.)

I do have some knowledge of filming but it is pretty basic (shut. speed, exposure, auto/manual, presets etc.) and I'm kind of concerned with all the talk I've heard of the DVX being pretty complicated for an entry level videographer. So if I do end up buying one I'm probably gonna end up spending even more money on lessons for filming with it as well.

So basically I have a few questions:

Is there any alternative camcorders that offer 24p recording for maybe a bit cheaper?

Is there any way I can manage the DVX' s settings properly without taking lessons? (any online tutorials)

P.S. There is no way I can go HD because my computer can't handle it.

Thanks,

+karma for knowledge sharing