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Which HD camcorder?

Posted: Tue Sep 22, 2009 10:46 am
by BigMattyP
Hi guys and girls.
It has taken a while and I have finally got everything I need in place to start shooting content... apart from the camera :)
I have been 'umming' and 'aahing' because it is such a lot of money but I wanted to know if you had any thoughts on which was more suitable between the Sony HVR-A1E, Sony Z1 or maybe even the Sony HVR HD1000E.
Lots of numbers I know and there are so many cameras out there that I have been struggling to decide which way to go.
You have all been so helpful before, would you mind 'stepping once more unto the breach dear friends'?
Thanks everyone, as always your help is truly appreciated :)
Take care.
Matt.

Re: Which HD camcorder?

Posted: Tue Sep 22, 2009 3:30 pm
by Arsewithclass
Matt hi. Even though the HD1000E is a cheaper option, its a huge camera with lots of weight when trying to pull off porn. A great camera for tripod or distance movies but thats about it...
The Sony HVR-A1E is probably the best bet as its mid way in price and still 1080i
I dont think its a progressive scan of which can be troublesome with low lighting levels.
May I ask, why HD?
When you convert the film, unless you have hd converting software, its actually only normal dv quality. Also, you can find that hd films are a pain in the arse for surfers to download if its for web footage.
Good luck which ever your choice!


Re: Which HD camcorder?

Posted: Wed Sep 23, 2009 4:23 am
by BigMattyP
Hey Carder,
Thanks man, tvbay is great :)
Out of interest, what have studios upgraded to from the Z1?

Re: Which HD camcorder?

Posted: Wed Sep 23, 2009 4:27 am
by BigMattyP
Hi Arsewithclass, (I love your work by the way!)
I was thinking HD would be good to have in the bag for when it becomes more mainstream and the niternet is quicker? Is this a good idea or maybe not?
I was planning on buying a Mac Pro with Final cut to edit with.
I know it is a lot of money which is why I am so nervous to get the right kit to start with.
Does the Z1 have the progressive scan you were talking about?

Re: Which HD camcorder?

Posted: Wed Sep 23, 2009 5:29 am
by Twingo
I believe the Z1 can record in 1080i50 and 1080i60, it can also use "cineframe" mode to achieve a progressive effect, but this isnt true progressive mode, how much difference there is, i dunno.

Re: Which HD camcorder?

Posted: Wed Sep 23, 2009 4:39 pm
by BNMedia
The FX1 is a cut down version of the Z1 and is sworn by by many. It has exactly the same image capabilities but just lacks XLR inputs and some other pro tweaks that most can live without. It would produce a much better image than the A1E as it uses 3CCD technology as opposed to 1 single CMOS sensor. This means better low light performance as well as better colour. You can get a second hand FX1 for an average of ?1400 and a used Z1 for approx ?2000. Alternatively you can get a new HVR-V1E which is a budget version of the Z1 with triple CMOS sensors.
Or for a bit more you can get the camera I'm going for next week, an HDR-FX1000 for ?2500 approx which image wipes the floor with all previously mentioned cameras I'm led to believe.


Re: Which HD camcorder?

Posted: Wed Sep 23, 2009 5:14 pm
by BigMattyP
Wow, thanks again guys, more good info :)
I will never get a camera bought at this rate!! lol
Take care.
Matt.

Re: Which HD camcorder?

Posted: Thu Sep 24, 2009 9:08 am
by BigMattyP
Lol Carder, thanks man.
I might have to go for one with the option of plugging in a mic. Seems daft not to if I am spending the money.