Panasonic AG-DVX100(n) or AG-HVX200?

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Level 3

941 points

Panasonic AG-DVX100(n) or AG-HVX200?

Apologies in advance for posting an irritating question. I think I'm at the "Paralysis-By-Analysis" stage of decision-making. The more research I do, the less clear I am.
I had set my heart on the DVX 100, as so many reports tell of the 'real film" quality aspect of its output which really appeals to me. But then I thought that if I was to use the camera in a professional capacity, people will ask me "is it HD?" and/or "is it proper 16:9?". And I would not want to say "no" to either question and regret not paying a bit extra for those two features.

I have a limited budget and would suspect that the HVX would be the most I would want to pay. It may be that there is another camera on the market that gives 24/25p film quality/ HD/16:9 for less - but I doubt it? I do like Panny stuff though.

So, if anyone can put me out of my misery with some simple, objective clarity (I know it's a lot to ask!) I'd be really grateful.

I'd be using the camera for both home movie making as well as professional use - ie filming professional presentations and someday move into weddings/functions filming.

Thanks guys.
Chris

4 X iMacs, Intel 20/17 (C2D) inch 2.0 with 1.5 gig ram Mac OS X (10.4.8) FCE HD

Posted on Jan 29, 2007 1:57 PM

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Answer 1

Tom Wolsky

Level 10

152,809 points

Jan 29, 2007 2:30 PM in response to ChrisRR

FCE does not support DVCPRO HD. The HVX camera would only be useable with FCE in its DV mode.

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Answer 2

ChrisRR Author

Level 3

941 points

Jan 29, 2007 2:41 PM in response to Tom Wolsky

Thanks Tom.
Not a major issue for me if Final Cut pro HD supports it. If it does? I'd upgrade.

But if there are any views on the cameras, independently of software compatibility - I'd be grateful.
Chris

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Answer 3

Jim Cookman

Level 7

23,447 points

Jan 29, 2007 3:23 PM in response to ChrisRR

I own a dvx 100a and I love it. I've shot with the HVX and it is a dream. Be sure to get two of the p2 cards, the bigger the better (8 giggers) I think panasonic is still throwing in a free one with a camera purchase.

Warning: the hvx is not for all types of shooting-- i.e. where you want to capture long presentations etc in HD unless you get a hard disk recorder.

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Answer 4

Tom Wolsky

Level 10

152,809 points

Jan 29, 2007 4:03 PM in response to ChrisRR

You need to seriously look at the workflow with P2 media. Search on the FCP forum here at Apple or on the Creative Cow forum. It's completely different from tape and requires careful production, planning and operation to ensure the material is archived properly.

Personally I dislike the form factor of both cameras, which are essentially the same. All the controls seem in very awkward places.

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Answer 5

Jan 29, 2007 6:31 PM in response to ChrisRR

I just cut a music video shot on the HVX with B-roll from the DVX...all I can say about the HVX is ...ahhh, HEAVEN!!! I can only imagine how great it is with a mini35 setup. If I were you, and I was 6 months ago, I'd get the DVX and one of the lower cost HDV offerings...I can't tell you which cause I'm never shooting hdv again unless (it's doc work for an hd network) and haven't kept up with the new cameras...but it is a good hd format for long form, budget conscious work. However, my kicking and screaming, 3 years of convincing, 15 year video director buddy is getting on the wait list for the HVX as soon as the check clears. Do I Love this camera? YES, but it ain't for everyone. I shoot music videos, so it is for me.

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Answer 6

ChrisRR Author

Level 3

941 points

Jan 31, 2007 11:09 AM in response to TimeKoder13

Thanks everyone for your thoughts and time. Really appreciate it. No further on really - beginning to wonder about either. Plus, I saw, out of the blue in a second hand shop, a Sony DCR VX9000E, for £1400. I've Googled it and it seems to have good reviews but no prices i I assume it's no longer made. The guy in the shop with the visible dorsal fin sticking through his t-shirt said it was only 1 year old - is this possible, and any thoughts on the camera, guys?
I know I'm a pain.
Chris

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