XL2 vs. DVX100a

[Sean Michael]

I own a Canon XL1. I’m looking to upgrade. The new camera will be used in conjunction with my old camera to film a documentary. Which is preferable: XL2 or DVX100a?

I’ve been torn over this decision. The XL2 would make a nice companion to my XL1. I love the styling of the XL series—it’s impressive and that helps gain credibility when working on an indie production.

I like 16:9 from a cinematic standpoint, and the XL2 is 16:9 native.

But I’m equally impressed with the many filmlike features of the DVX100a. The lighter weight of the DVX is an advantage, and the 24p is unparalleled.

Price isn’t much of an issue. (Some web retailers have these cameras priced within $500 of each other.) I just want to get the best camera for my documentary. It will hopefully end up at some film festivals, as well as on TV.

Any thoughts on this comparison?

[J.R. Hudson]

Unfortunately; there are many thoughts on this subject. DO a search and you will find countless debating and insight on this subject.

[MattC]

You should use (borrow/rent) both cameras if you can to compare. One thing, you mention that the DVX's 24p is unparalleled. To the best of my knowledge this is not true, both cameras operate identically in this respect. They do, however handle color differently, at least in their stock settings, but both cameras are so tweakable, you can really do whatever you want with either camera. If you like the form factor of the XL1 then I would give real consideration to the XL2, especially if you have any additional lenses from the XL1.

Matt

[Sean Michael]

I participated in a "digital filmmaking" workshop at New York Film Academy (NYFA) last year, and we used the DVX100a. There's no question it's a fantastic camera. I'm thinking of doing another NYFA workshop this year, and it would be useful to have the same equipment as the school.

OTOH, native 16:9, 24p, and a visual complement to my XL1 is tempting.

One factor I sincerely appreciate is the presence of DVXuser. This is a great community. I know it will be a really helpful resource if I go the Panasonic route. Stay tuned... I'm leaning toward the DVX but will sleep on it! :undecided

[Isaac_Brody]

DVXuser isn't just for DVXusers. It's a pretty open community and a lot of the information is pretty transferrable between the XL2 and DVX, especially production and post production workflows.

Like Matt said, compare both and see which one fits your needs better. If you have specific questions related to cameras ask a question or do a search.

[MattC]

Isaac is right, I only have an XL2 and have found a home here. You should read Barry Green's review of both cameras (plus a high-def cam as well). It really sums up the differences, but, if I remember correctly, he felt the biggest difference was form factor.

Having said that, if you are taking courses where the instructors are very familiar with a particular camera and can offer you a great deal of guidance on that camera, that's a pretty big thing to consider. I think if I were in your shoes, I would talk to some of the teachers there, especially the ones you just had. See what they're feelings are and how they would feel about your taking the class but using an XL2 (yours) instead. They may jump at the chance to have a student shoot on a different camera that they themselves would like to get some experience on, or they may advise you to stick with the DVX because it is what they know and they feel they can best instruct you on that.

Personally, if it were me, I'd wait to buy anything until after NAB.

Matt

[MattC]

I think they're pretty much equal myself. But I have to say, if you get the chance to use Canon's manual lens, it is really a treat. Nicer than any other lens on a prosumer camera so far, although that may change after NAB. But if you're not going to spring for the manual lens, then it really isn't an issue.

Matt