need help - switching HVX200 to XDCAM-EX??

[schteevie]

I am seriously considering moving from HVX200 to the XDCAM-EX for my next series due to broadcaster issues... (1/3 vs 1/2 chip, etc)

I have never shot on XD-CAM and would have been happy to stay with HVX, but I am facing pressure from various sources, and starting to get tired of fighting...

Is it a hard transition? both productionand post workflow (FCP)?

I realise this is a very vague question, but I am looking for starting points as I research the options...

I am considering picking up this training DVD as a start...
http://www.callboxlive.com/store/sony-guidebook-p-39.html

thnx

[gabrielflorit]

Or check out Vortex Media's DVD. Great learning tool. http://www.vortexmedia.com/EX1DVD/EX1DVD.html

[DCSensui]

I did what you're doing back in February. It's an easy transition. It'll even intercut with each other in a sequence in FCP.

You can't do multicam without converting one to the other format. All clips in a multicam clip have to share the same format.

Something to be aware of is the pixel aspect of the two formats. P2 is 1440 x 1080 pixels (rectangular pixels) and XDCam EX is a full 1920 x 1080 (square pixels).

You get three times more recording time per gigabyte and that's a huge plus as it means fewer cards to carry or buy.

[schteevie]

I did what you're doing back in February. It's an easy transition. It'll even intercut with each other in a sequence in FCP.

You can't do multicam without converting one to the other format. All clips in a multicam clip have to share the same format.

Something to be aware of is the pixel aspect of the two formats. P2 is 1440 x 1080 pixels (rectangular pixels) and XDCam EX is a full 1920 x 1080 (square pixels).

You get three times more recording time per gigabyte and that's a huge plus as it means fewer cards to carry or buy.

thanks for hte reply.

so the compression isn't visible then?
aldo - can time code jam betweeen cameras with the EX? HVX doesn't so that would be another advantage...

[NoahK]

thanks for hte reply.

so the compression isn't visible then?
aldo - can time code jam betweeen cameras with the EX? HVX doesn't so that would be another advantage...

No timecode cannot be jammed between the cameras in production. But you can easily sync them in post- say if both cameras shoot 24p etc. The EX1 is a totally different camera from the HVX in usage and abilities. But it's perfectly capable of delivering the same level and more of image quality in the HVX in the right hands. Might want to check out my disc (http://www.callboxlive.com/store/sony-guidebook-p-39.html)- it's definitely from the perspective of someone experienced with the HVX and moving over to the EX1.

Noah

[newadam]

Back in January I sold three HVX cameras and bought 2 EX1'S. The HVX is an awesome camera, but for me the EX1 has been a way better fit. You have to take into context what I (you) use it for. For me it is perfect. I have a photography background so my shots are typically well planned, on a tripod, jib, or dolly. When I do handheld work, I use a shoulder support with smooth motion. I do not do run and gun shaky handheld stuff. I do not mount it to my bike, and no cloverfield stuff. To me the picture is stunning. When used with a Letus Extreme, the look is amazing. I do alot internationally so it is perfect as it switches between NTSC/PAL. I love that the SxS cards slip in my Macbook and transfer quickly. When I has the HVX, I had to tie up a camera to transfer.

To me is is way cleaner, no compression unless you go crazy with panning, and the codec has been great. A little slower than DVC-PRO when rendering, but not so much that it is problematic.

Enjoy,

Adam