Zero conversion desired

My old Sony miniDV camera just died, and I am researching the best camcorder model to accommodate my workflow & budget. My goals for this purchase:

- Maximize video quality -- HD 1080p at the highest bitrate possible yet minimize conversion time during the import process to iMovie

- File size / storage is not a concern

- Record to flash memory

My understanding is that AVCHD requires conversion to Apple Intermediate Codec in order to edit in iMovie. Do all MP4 files require conversion as well? Is .mov the only format that is read natively by iMovie and thus does not require conversion?

I have looked hard at the Canon line of camcorders. The Vixia HF G30 records in MP4 35Mbps. Does this require conversion when importing into iMovie? My preference is to record at the highest quality possible that natively imports into iMovie without the need for conversion to Apple Intermediate Codec. This model also bears the Works with iMovie label. Does this mean it records in .mov? I am not sure what the Works with iMovie designation means.

Does Final Cut Pro eliminate the need for the conversion to Apple Intermediate Code, and thus reduce the time necessary to import and begin editing? I would prefer not having to drop $1,600 on a camcorder, and also not drop $300 more to go to FCP in order to improve speed during the import process. What is the best balance in regards to video quality vs. conversion time in regards to recording formats? Please let me know if FCP can work with MP4 or AVCHD and eliminate the need for conversion during the import process.

Thanks for your input.