gs200 a better low cost bet than the new panasonic cameras?

I'm thinking of getting a new gs200 ($595 via amazon) because it has a microphone jack and headphone jack - hard to find on moderate cost newer camcorder designs - plus I prefer buying new electronics than used (otherwise would look at the gs250). Any thoughts or suggestions?

thanks,
Gil

The GS200 is several years old. Both it and the GS250 are no longer being manufactured. The GS200 is a 4:3 only camcorder. So, if you are interested in widescreen, you'll be out of luck. Plus, you likely will not have a warranty with it. Panasonic has recalled some GS200s because they will have a failure of the CCD prism assembly over time. Hope that helps.

Do you have a suggested replacement? particularly one with a microphone jack?

If you can still find one, a Canon Elura 100, Panasonic GS300 or Panasonic GS180. They also have been discontinued but you should get a full warranty with them because they were in the 2006 model year.