I have the HDC - SD9 and excepting for the current problem I have with the automatic lens cover not opening when in record mode (posted this problem today) I have to say that it's a great HD Camcorder. It's incredibly lightweight, gets great battery life, it's easy-peasy simple to use, and records great footage. Downside would be it's not great in lowlight situations, but with the low light settings enabled, I have shot acceptable ambient lit subjects indoors.
Oh, and I may be able to tell you what the service department is like, if I can't find a solution to the automatic lens cover problem.