XL2 or DVX100B?

[mmf1pitt]

I can't decide on either camera XL2 or DVX100B...wish I could afford both. Can anyone list the pros and cons for these two cams? I've got a major headache and all of it is just a blurr. Some prefer DVX, others prefer XL2...I've been using a DVX100B for documentaries and some special events but have not had any chance to try out an XL2 (none available to rent in Pittsburgh). I'm hoping someone can give me an honest review of both cameras. Thx.

:badputer:

Manny

[ennfurno]

hi manny,i'm living in pittsburgh to and i've used both cameras,and as a matter of fact i struggled wit the same thing for 3 months but for my purpose doing cinematagarphy type work i went with the dvx 100b because i previously owned the 100a and to me no other camera in its price range can deliver the colors and film look like the dvx can.the xl2 even when tweaked will deliver you a cleane video look with a subtle film look but still falling short in my opinion. let me know what part of pittsburgh do you stay?

[Mack Fisher]

Manny, I would suggest instead of posting this again, do some reading. Search up on this forum DVX vs Xl2 read some of the posts people have ranted endlessly rather than starting up another thread. Also read the shootout section for a proffesional opinion. This article can be found at the top of the site in the article section.

[Rick Meyer]

Well, you've definitely come to the right place for answers (dvxuser.com). This forum is chock full of knowledge.

I have a couple of DVXs and absolutely LOVE them. My GF was just watching "Whose Wedding Is It Anyway?" on TLC and it never ceases to amaze me how comparable and downright good my DVX footage is compared to that show. Though, for all I know, they might be using something like a DVX or XL1 or 2.

Having said that, the XL-series produces a stunning image as well. I think I am going to say what most other will say, it A) depends on what you are using it for and B) comes down to personal preference.

If you are filming theater productions, for example, from the back of the house and want the extra long zoom capability, than the XL2 is for you. If you are doing weddings, its a toss up.

A good buddy of mine has an XL1 and a DVX and has used them both extensively. Then he got to use an XL2 for a while and said that it just feels differently than the XL1 does...and not in a good way. It says it just feels more cheaply made than its predecessor...Now, I don't expect you to go on 3rd person advice, but all in all you are gonna have to get to a video store handle them both and see what you think.

Then, bring a blank mini DV tape...get a few minutes of footage on it from each camera...then bring it home and look at it. That will help you out a lot.

Rick

PS One more thing...I've seen multiple video clips where DVX footage and XL1(or 2) footage was intercut irregardless of which camera it came from and it was impossible to make a clear distinction. Either way, I'm betting you'll be satisfied with either.

[rawfa]

There's an absolutely amazing article about the DVX, XL2 and FX1 here at the forum. You should read it. Of course, the best thing to do would be to try both cameras.

[rawfa]

Here you go: http://dvxuser.com/articles/shoot3/

[BLT]

Hey,

I just finished a recent action movie shoot in which we used all 3 competitive brands of the non-HD prosumer camera series - The Sony PD170, Panasonic DVX100b, and the Canon XL2. As independent filmmakers, I suppose image quality is the top concern, so that is where I shall start my brief but blunt review of the two camcorders.

Of all 3, I have to say that the XL2 has, by far, the best image quality. The images were much 'sharper' and the colors given much more depth/contrast by this camera relative to the other two. In addition, manual focusing on this camera was alot more sensitive than the other two and one could create decent shallow depth of field shots that resembled professional grade films. However, I sorely hated its lack of a LCD monitor, its weight, and its difficulty in moving around.

I wouldn't really recommend the PD170 because its image quality is really quite poor for its price (Just a few hundred less than the XL2). Between the DVX and XL2, I'd say the XL 2 is an overall better camera although I'd rather go for the DVX for its price, flexibility, user-friendliness, and overall ergonomics (I friggin love the big LCD monitor). I felt that the extra money (Often 150%-180% the price of a DVX) you pay for the XL2's slightly better image quality and focusing was not worth it because of its lack of flexibility and utility.

[Drew Ott]

From seeing footage of both, I think the DVX delivers a much more film-like image. If you are doing news-type stuff, go with the XL2.

It also depends if you will be using interchangable lenses, and if 16:9 is a must for you.

[Mack Fisher]

I think the Xl2 produces a more film quality image. true 16:9 and interchangable lense seals it for me

[KyleProhaska]

Im in a constant tossup between these two cameras now and its driving me crazy. Basically there are some points I have drawn after reading much for the past month:

XL2
1) Longer Zoom Reach 20x
2) Better for event shooting
3) Heavier, Less Rugged Design
4) Small LCD (could be fixed with $300 LCD)
5) Native 16:9
6) More Res to color correct with (IE film look is possible but not as much in camera as the DVX100B)
7) $3600

DVX
1) Wins in 4:3 (cropping to 16:9 is possible)
2) Larger LCD
3) Great community, lol.
4) More rugged and easy to move
5) Less zoom 10x
6) 16:9 uses Squeeze mode, eck.
7) Not really an event photography camera.
8) $2850 after rebate

I plan to use my camera for: (in order of priority)

Filmmaking
Events/Interviews
Weddings

I say XL2 but is the extra 750 really worth what I gain? Its so hard to decide its eating my insides.

One Major Point: XL2 produces a higher res 16:9 image, most DVX users love the in camera film look but one thing I have learned is that a flat image that can be tweaked to your liking is more efficient then a more dynamic image right out of the camera and less ability to color time and correct. I like color correcting and I think its important. For me getting the film look isnt priority but if I want it Ide like the possibility which teh Xl2 can provide.

So what do you guys think? Im looking for answers from someone whoh as used both, not a DVX die hard who will only say "get a DVX" which is what ive gotten anywhere else.

-Kyle

[Elton]

If you're not in a hurry, don't even consider either. Wait for the Canon XH-A1 and get so much more.

[KyleProhaska]

HD isnt really practical for me to edit right now, even with my new laptop. I want to stick with SD for now. Plus they are way more expensive then I can afford, im pushing it getting the XL2 or DVX besides.

-Kyle

[MovieSwede]

What is your end medium?

DVD?
35mm?
VHS?

[Elton]

Understood. I simply thought if you were close to the $4K range you could get a camera that shoots great 24p DV and has HD when you're ready for it.

[Matt Sconce]

I have only used the DVX, and have never used the XL2. Check out the look at www.strickenthemovie.com (http://www.strickenthemovie.com) in my media section. Almost all grabs are not CC'd and I used a M2 35mm adapter for alot of them.

I have friends who use and love the Xl2 and Friends who love the DVX. I think if your priority is film making, do a search on IMDB on how many movies have been made with a DVX. There are a ton. I would say DVX100b if you prioritize film making, XL2 if you prioritize events. Just my two cents.

[MovieSwede]

Or just flip a coin and be happy what ever it is. ;)

[mmf1pitt]

Thanks to everyone!

My work focuses on a combination of interviews, scenic footage and events...the piece I'm currently working on deals with Native Self-Government in Canada and the U.S.. I have a number of key interviews with Chiefs, native artists, government and corporate reps as well as shots of native events in Canada etc. Film-like quality and camera ease-of-use factors are pluses when I need to jump from an interview shot to an outdoor scene shot in a matter of minutes.

Thanks again to everyone for all of your invaluable input.

Great article that answered all of my questions...DVX it is dudes! http://dvxuser.com/articles/shoot3/

Manny

[KyleProhaska]

I still think no matter what its a personal choice and from what I see whoever chose the XL2 ended up loving it, whoever chose the DVX ended up loving it. I guess I have nothing to loose. DXmetal who has sold things here before is selling me his XL2 under 20hrs of usage for 2800, done deal. He said he sold his DVX100B after 7hrs of usage lol. I think ill be happy no matter what but after figuring my priorities I went with the XL.

-Kyle

[MalcolmOng]

Congrats on the new camera purchase!

[Rick Rock]

I purchased an XL1s when they were out for a couple years for a little over $4,000. I honestly believe that when the HVX-200 hits that price point in maybe a year or two, it'll be the best bang for the buck despite being a little older.

I've since sold both my XL1s and my GL2 and am a year later still trying to decide whether to go with the XL2 or DVX100B. Tough choice in the SD realm.

[Rick Meyer]

As been said before, its all about personal preference. They are as good as one another. If you are on the fence and leaning towards the DVX however, and need a final push, check out PINELAKEFILMS.com. Most all of these nature films are from the DVX.

Simply amazing.
Rick

[Bogdan]

Rick -

If you plan shooting widescreen, XL2 will have the edge in image quality. In fullscreen, XL2 and DVX are very close.
XL2 is heavier, but more stable hand held. On Steadicam or Glidecam XL2 will take more energy from you but with more weight you get better stability. In my opinion, XL2 is easier to operate, but DVX offers LCD screen. The viewfinder/LCD in XL2 is not as convenient so external monitor will be helpful.
Like others said, it's a question of personal preference, but my suggestion is: if image quality in 16:9 is your priority, go for XL2. If convenience and smaller size is your preference, go for DVX.
I owned XL2 and also worked with DVX100 so I thought I'd share my opinion. Good luck!

[David Jimerson]

How is the DVX not suitable for "events"? A lot of advantages/disadvantages listed seem arguably valid, but that one baffles me.

[Bogdan]

How is the DVX not suitable for "events"? A lot of advantages/disadvantages listed seem arguably valid, but that one baffles me.

Come on man, it's not like DVX is not suitable for events. What people mean here is that XL2 is better in those applications and the reason is very simple: much more zoom power and the best image stabilizer in the class! :) 20x vs 10x makes huge difference.

However, I don't agree with msconce saying DVX is better choice for filmmaking. It really depends. Both cams have their advantages. The choice is not so simple.

[David Jimerson]

No, they actually said that it's not suitable for events. This comes as a surprise considering how many events I've shot with it.

And like you say about filmmaking, it really does depend on the event as to which advantages come into play.

[LuckyStudio 13]

DXmetal who has sold things here before is selling me his XL2 under 20hrs of usage for 2800, done deal. He said he sold his DVX100B after 7hrs of usage lol.
-Kyle


HOw do you like the cam kyle ?? you better be saying nice things bout me here ! :Drogar-Love(DBG): HVX here I come !!!

[KyleProhaska]

Its great, glad I decided to get the XL2. The LCD is the only downside but some extra dough and a 7in LCd will do :).

-Kyle

[Bogdan]

No, they actually said that it's not suitable for events. This comes as a surprise considering how many events I've shot with it.


OK. Maybe people get a little over-excited sometimes, but that happens much more often to DVX and HVX users than to Canon users. We're just too professional for that :)

[Evro]

I've got both, a DVX & XL2. Personaly I do not shoot in 50i video modes, I only use 16:9 at 25P for all my work.

The DVX gives you a more classic film-like Gama & strobing just like a real film camera during fast pans, it is also more portable & discreet with a large LCD for accurate adjustments during run & gun work.

The XL2 image is far cleaner than the DVX however the cadence of it's 25P mode still has a kind of video look & does not strobe as much (even with fast un-orthodox pans) something which is more forgiving where you're doing events or unpredictable action. Also, slowed down footage looks much smoother than the DVX and has less pronounced strobing. Finally the XL2 commands & receives more respect during event work than the DVX.