they ask for a credit card and 50 dollars a year (maybe it was more). I joined because I don't know anything

Numerous benefits; review them at:
http://www.canondv.com/xl1/ownersclub/index.html
In my opinion, very worthwhile and highly recommended.

Yes its worth it. On the XL-1 a couple of years ago, the club was free. But even at $50/yr it is probably worth it. You extra care for service and PMs. If they hold to the old standards (and I do not know if they do) PMs are suppose to be complete in 24 hours, and if the equipment needs to be in the shop longer, Canon will ship you a loaner using your credit card as colateral.

The only question I was never able to get Canon to answer was 'which brand of video tape is best to use?'

Oh well, I have good luck with my Panasonic tapes ;-)

Nathan Gifford