Yes, I have an HF G60. I bought it after the G70 launched, and picked the older version for the larger sensor. I suspect Canon stopped using that in the Vixia line because it was 'too close' to the XA professional cameras. To me, it seems like the G60 is most of an XA camcorder except the XLR handle. The other reason is that I was replacing a Vixia HF M41 for which I had the mini-hotshoe shotgun mic, and for some reason Canon dropped the mini-hotshoe from the G70 (even though all the G-series camcorders before had it).
The rocker on the camcorder is not ideal, I agree. I was unaware of the Manfrotto LANC controller, thanks much for the mention – I have the MVR901EPLA in my cart for my next order. I already use a Manfrotto 608 Nitrotech fluid head, so it's perfect.
The C50 and C80 have a LANC input. The R50 V has a 2.5mm jack but it's for the E3 remote trigger and I doubt it would work with a LANC controller.