actually the 250 has optical stabilization that looks great. that's one of the main reasons i chose it.

http://www.dvspot.com/reviews/panaso...ew/index.shtml
just do a search for stabilization

and i see it for $399 at a couple of reputable places. think i'll just get another of this one instead of messing around with the others. this camcorder has been great for me and i'm very used to it.