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Home: Video University Forums: Canon All Camcorders:
Canon XL1s vs Sony PD170

lobbster
Novice

Jul 11, 2004, 2:55 PM

Post #1 of 4 (1200 views)
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Canon XL1s vs Sony PD170	Can't Post

I am finally ready to buy a camera after saving for a year. So now asking for opinions about whether to get the XL1s or PD170. Last year I was ripped off $2590 on an eBay scam. I had purchased a few accesories for the Canon - tripod, battery, XLR adapter, filters.

My budget for the camera is about $3500. The price for these two cameras is pretty comparable. I plan to use it primarily for weddings and then various other non-business things such as short films and experimental stuff. I have been researching for so long that now I have no idea which one I should get. Thank you in advance for the advice.

Bob Hudson
User

Jul 11, 2004, 9:32 PM

Post #2 of 4 (1190 views)
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Re: [lobbster] Canon XL1s vs Sony PD170 [In reply to]	Can't Post

This is one of those questions that is rather like asking, "What's better, Chevy's or Fords?"

I would say that if you previously liked the XL1 enough to spend money for accessories, then it must have looked pretty good to you and since you already have accessories for it, you should probably go go for it.

The PD170 is DVCAM and that means shorter recording times which could be a problem during weddings. Also if you want to do short films, Canon has a better electronic 16:9 mode than Sony and the Canon frame mode looks very good - it too is better than anything Sony has done in that area. Frame mode has been used for "that film look" but in this era when everyone is watching DVD's on computer screens and other progressive scan monitors, I find the Canon frame mode provides footage that looks a whole lot better than interlaced video on progressive scan monitors.

chrissimms
User

Jul 12, 2004, 5:44 AM

Post #3 of 4 (1182 views)
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Re: [lobbster] Canon XL1s vs Sony PD170 [In reply to]	Can't Post

I have had both cameras and I would suggest the Sony over the Cannons for several reasons.
The Cannons cost so much to repair Firewire port on 1 of ours hade to be replaced at a cost of 250.00
the lense worked loose on the XL1s and we tried to buy a new locking spring for it,Cannon wanted to replace the body ass at a cost over 1000.00
I have 2 PD170's and no problems so far they have peformed well and to me are much eaiser to operate
Before these cameras I used to shoot with the Sony digital 8's with are still in use by us today.

I would suggest the Sonys based on my experence but its really up to you
Chris

DonP
Novice

Jul 12, 2004, 6:02 AM

Post #4 of 4 (1180 views)
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Re: [lobbster] Canon XL1s vs Sony PD170 [In reply to]	Can't Post

Follow your heart. Either will produce good video.

The Canon is more versitle, the Sony will pull out an image in a bit lower light.

The PD170 is a newer model, the XL1s at ~3 years old is about due for a model.

If you need it now, buy now. If you need it in 4 months, wait to see what the future brings, probably lower prices if nothing else.