Go with MiniDV. Video/Audio is recorded to a small digital tape cassette and hold an average of 60 min. each. The footage is imported into your computer via FireWire input in DV format so you can edit it. The problem with DVD-R recording camcorders and such is the media is not in a good format to edit. If you want the best flexablility, MiniDV is the format and the most common.
Depending on what you want to spend, one major thing you want to make sure of is the CCD resolution. Ex: 680,000 and above. Get the highest you can for your budget and if your budget permits, check out the Canon HV10 or HV20. A true HiDEV camcorder for around a grand with great options.