RatVega
Enthusiast
Mar 20, 2006, 2:26 PM
Post #2 of 4
(1521 views)
Shortcut
|
|
Re: [coupia] Help In Deciding What To Purchase
[In reply to]
|
Can't Post
|
|
First off, I commend you for not just throwing money or buying whatever fits your budget without any research - you're talking about a tool that your son may be using to make a name for himself.
The two cameras that seem to be quite popular with film students are the Canon XL and the Panasonic DVX. Both are a little over your budget new (the current Canon model is the XL-2, and the Panny is the DVX-100B) and both are fine cameras. One feature they share that appeals to those experimenting with images is 24 frame progressive mode (24p).
If I were in his shoes (knowing what I know now) my "affordable" ideal would the XL-2 because it can shoot normal video (60i) as well as 24p and 30p as well as standard format (4:3 aspect ratio) and widescreen (16:9 aspect ratio) without special lenses or attachments. The XL-1 and XL-1s cannot do this, neither can the Panasonic.
Everyone these days is fascinated with HD cams (and some are pretty cheap ) but actually finishing a project in HD typically involves special editing gear and when finished there is (currently) no way to produce a standard DVD. For all the flash, they're only practical for established videographers or those trying to get into HD without any immediate DVD-based delivery requirements.
If I were in your shoes, I'm want to know if your son is approaching this with 24p in mind, since there are several other options (like the Canon GL-2) that are affordable alternatives for someone who isn't interested in 24p. Timing is also important since new cameras are introduced every year at NAB, meaning your options will probably change. I've never bought a camera used because unless you are positive about its condition you can end up investing the cost of a new camera repairing a used one. Several XL-1s have shown up here lately with firewire port problems and the like. It's like buying a used engine "as is" - you never know it it's good for another 100,000 miles or will throw a rod next week.
If your son if like mine (as in: when he commits, he gets serious and completely applies himself) then I feel your pain in not being easily able to give him precisely what he needs. With the XL-2 around $4000 from a reputable dealer, I'd be talking seriously to him about where he's planning to go. If he says 24p isn't a big deal, I have him into a GL-2 with a nice accessory package in a heartbeat.
Good luck.
______________________________________________________________
Currently on a loaded 2.5GHz G5 dualie/5GB/1TB internal RAID/dual 19" monitors. Final Cut Studio, Adobe Suite, Boris RED. Shooting with Canon.
VU California Crew, Inland Empire Sub-Chapter (paragraph?)
|
