Just a couple of links that may be helpful for camcorders.
http://www.simplydv.co.uk/reviews.html
http://www.reviewcentre.com/products58.html
I bought a JVC GRD25 at Xmas from Jessops. I had seen the same cam online at a couple of place for about £130 cheaper. I knew that Jessops would try to match the price and they managed to get within £15, but also threw in a 5 pack of DV tapes which made up for it.
For spare batteries, I bought a generic double capacity one on Ebay from a UK supplier with about 100% positive feedback. I paid about £18 "buy it now" inc p+p. I saw the same on Saturday in Dixons for £69.99! Not a bad saving. I will find the name of the seller if anyone wants it.
Oh I nearly forgot, whilst looking into the one I bought I too found many people mentioning motor noise on Canons. My analogue Canon, only about 18 months old has the same.