fast and cheap? possible?

[88bomber]

I am just a normal guy when it comes to photography with a plain ole Kodak CX4230. I would be happy with it if it were faster (auto focus, shutter lag -> shot-to-shot). So, what is the fastest DC that uses AA batteries that I might get at or under $300?

Oh and I only need 3x optical zoom and minimum of 2 MP.

Thanks for helping a newbie!