Sharp Viewcam VL-AX1

Hello everyone

I'm a new member so i don't know if this subject has been aired before. I am looking to buy a new camcorder & the Sharp VL-AX1 looks as if it could be the beast for me.

I film mostly steam trains so need a good optical lens & a zoom mic as well. Trouble is i can't find out anything more than the above about this model. I need to know a guide price & a stockist in UK. I will be going to Hongkong in the near future so wonder if it would be available out there & would it be cheaper?

Are Sharp cameras any good? It is not a name that comes readily to mind.

Any help appreciated.

Alan