I've searched the web and tried all suggestions but I cannot get a good DVD from HDV footage. Here is my workflow. Shoot with XH-A1 in 1080i. Edit in FCP HDV native 1080i timeline. Export a self contained 1080i qtime. Use compressor to create MP2 and AC3 files using 1 pass 90 minute setting and CHANGED the field setting to lower. The DVD looks nice when the camer is still. If there is motion for pans I get flicker.

Is this the best it gets?

Normal HDV (and DVDs thereof) do not flicker at all.

Sounds like a field order problem - but it also sounds like you have been exploring that possibility already.

What shutter speed were you using when you shot the original footage?

High shutter speeds may cause a strobing effect during pans. Footage shot with 1/60th of a second will not show this strobing.