I am currently using my VX 2100 to play my footage while capturing into FC. Does anyone know of a inexpensive and better means of doing this to avoid wear on the camera? I have found mini DV recorders but these are expensive, at least the ones I have seen. Are there any that just "Play"?

Thanks

A cheap camcorder is your cheapest option.

There are also professional decks that have some extra features, but they cost significantly more. Their heads and mechanical parts last a little longer, so if you shoot hundreds of hours of footage they can be worth it.