So I have been using a VERY bare bones webcam/OBS setup to record and stream tabletop wargames over Twitch and YouTube and it is time for me to put on big boy pants (or at least short pants) and upgrade my gear a bit. I don't want to make the leap to a pro setup just yet as portability and ease of production is important. I was hoping I might get some input on cameras. My budget is up to about $1200, but lower is obviously better.

By way of background, I live stream X-Wing Miniatures games from tournament events. I have been using a Logitech C920 and Open Broadcast Software and doing simple commentary using a cheap, USB compression mic. This has been adequate, but I wish to move up from OBS and webcams for better picture and better control of a more produced live broadcast.

Requirements: I need a high quality, 1080 picture of the play area (3'x3') that will be shot from a standard 72" tripod. This camera will be fixed, so zoom and stabilization are not essential. Light conditions are unpredictable and I do not have space for lighting, so good low-light performance is important. I will be using an HDMI capture card to import the A/V into XSplit Broadcaster. The audio from the table will just be going to the commentators, so on-board audio quality is not important. I would like to be able to attach a polarizing filter as the game uses dice and cards and glare is a problem (another reason low-light performance is very important). Higher frame rate is preferred as there is lots of movement. Manual focus control is preferred. Auto-focus is unimportant and would typically be disabled.

I have looked closely at the Panasonic V770 ($500), the Sony AX53 ($1000), and the Canon Vixia G40, ($1200). All three seem adequate, but possessing of many features I do not need.

Any suggestions would be GREATLY appreciated!!