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To be honest both cameras are from the Stone Age now, I think the Sony came out 6 years ago, but they perform well. I've used both. Handy hint is if you don't need the use of XLR sockets and phantom power and a couple of menu items, get yourself a Sony FX1 which is the domestic version of the Z1, but basically exactly the same running gear and about ?1000 cheaper. The Z1/FX1 is completely "Idiot proof", which means they will give great results whatever the conditions in Auto mode. If you learn to actually use them properly, it's even better!

One major problem I've found with Z1's and FX1's is the on board mic picks up any sound you make from the body of the camera itself. It's not just me who's noticed this and its bloody annoying, lots of people don't give a toss about "Sound" but if you do, it'll bother you.

Best thing is try to rent one first. BTW now I use a Sony V1 which I love although this too has its own set of little annoyances!

If you can possibly afford it, buy new. You never know how the previous owner of a camera has treated it. For example if someones been using his camcorder as a playback medium for a computer based edit system and he has been loading in batches for years, ie the PC has been basically stopping, starting and running his camcorder hundreds of times whilst importing sections, the camcorder could well be knackered, but still look good on the outside.

An "Honest" dealer?, not sure if such a thing exists. You could try Visual Impact on 0208 977 1222, they used to have a second hand department and I used to use them alot for broadcast equipment hire and found them OK, at least you'd probably get some kind of guarantee from them.