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Home: Video University Forums: HDV:
Suggestions for a HDV camera

immortalem
New User

Jul 17, 2005, 5:46 PM

Post #1 of 3 (919 views)
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Suggestions for a HDV camera	Can't Post

I am looking for a good HDV camera to film a short on. I was wondering if anyone had any suggestions where I could buy one on-line and tell me what the best one is.

videobear
Veteran

Jul 18, 2005, 9:39 AM

Post #2 of 3 (904 views)
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Re: [immortalem] Suggestions for a HDV camera [In reply to]	Can't Post

Right now, your choice is pretty much limited to the Sony FX1/Z1U. There are also the JVC one-chip HDV camcorders, but the Sonys are definitely a step above.

If you can wait maybe 3-4 months, you'll have considerably more choice. Sony is coming out with a couple of new 1 chip CMOS HDV camcorders, priced around $2-3K (these may even be shipping now). JVC will be releasing their 3-chip 720p camcorder priced around $6K, and the Panasonic 200, capable of recording HDV on solid state memory chips should be out as well.

If your short is a one-time job, consider renting a camcorder for it.

Regards,
Doug Graham
Panda Productions

Montepix
Novice

Jul 18, 2005, 11:16 AM

Post #3 of 3 (893 views)
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Re: [videobear] Suggestions for a HDV camera [In reply to]	Can't Post

Sony has released the HDR-HC1 single chip (CMOS) HDV camera. Price on the street is around $1800. Lux rating is typical of a single chipper with a 37mm lens (i.e. 7 lux) so it will require decent lighting to get a good picture. 10x zoom is a limitation for some as well. However, the camera is TINY (small) and weighs only around 2 lbs. 1/3" CMOS chip is used and gives 1080i HDV to a miniDV tape.