DSLR VS. Video Camera

Having used both of these tools here are a few things I have learned. First for events and easy audio controls you can not beat a regular video camera. I find my video camera more useful than a DSLR for a lot of video projects. Take a lecture for example, you don't want to start and stop a DSLR in the middle of a lecture because it won't record long enough. A video camera can roll as long as you need depending on how long your tape or memory card is. Video cameras have a built-in zoom lens so you can frame on the fly along with auto focus. On board XLR plug-ins are perfect for audio and offer a lot better professional choices of mics to use on your camera. So why use a DSLR? Picture quality is the first thing, you can use amazing glass for wonderful shallow depth of field. You have amazing low light ability so you can be more artistic with a DSLR. I like to use a DSLR for my stock video work as I shoot no audio and have better creative control with my lens choice. When using a crane I still prefer my video camera because of the good auto focus on it. If I had the money for only one camera I would choose the video camera for the  XLR alone! Keep in mind for any video that needs audio you must not take short cuts, audio will make or break you as a video professional. If you are just shooting stock video or don't need audio then get a good DSLR. You need to keep in mind there is no auto focus as good as a regular video camera. You need to learn how to focus to eternity and be able to pull focus as well. You need good glass which is the most important for picture quality. If you buy cheap glass you are better off getting a high end regular video camera. An external monitor is a big help on a DSLR as well. Owning both has really been the best for what I do. I love shooting video with the 5D Mark II but I love the controls on my HMC 150 as well. Hope this helps you and whatever you choose, take the time to learn it well!