Am I Crazy? XL2 to HV30...

Nick Royer

Nick Royer

Well-known member
I've had my XL2 for a little over a year now and I'm not thrilled with it. Recently I picked up a Canon HV30 as a second camera and I have since used it multiple times on projects I would normally use the XL2 for. I love the small form factor instead of the VERY front-heavy and awkward XL2. After NAB next year I plan on getting an HVX200A or XH A1 (or A2 if it's out). But for now, I figure I can sell the XL2 for about $2000+ with accessories. The XH A1 is just $1000 more, which I have, but I would then not have many accessories and I would have to sell it if I decide to upgrade. So I am actually thinking about selling off the XL2 and getting another HV30 with a bunch of accessories. Here is the list below:

-Canon HV30: $769.95
-Beachtek DXA-6VU XLR-converter: $359.95
-Canon 0.7x Wide Angle: $179.95
-Canon 1.7x Telephoto: $159.95
-2x Canon BP-2L24H Battery: $199.90
-Hoya 43mm Kit: $49.95
-Bogen 55XB Pro w/ 501HDV head: $331.90
-2x Petrol PMCCB-1-N Bag: $359.90
TOTAL: $2,221.45

So what do you think? Am I crazy to give up a $3000 cam for a $800 one? If I end up doing this I will end up keeping both of the HV30's when I get my HVX or XH-A1.
 
I say shoot with whatever works best for you and your needs... leave ego at the door.

If the HV20 or 30 work best, then shoot with that :)
 
I should probably just go ahead and get the XH A1 now instead of later. Maybe I can find a good deal on a used one. The HV30 is a great camera but it does have one big weakness in it's CMOS sensor. I've had several problems with rolling shutter already and had to use an older Optura camera because the XL2 wouldn't fit where we needed the camera to be (it was on a bike). Having CCD's is a big bonus.
 
Well, then certainly the HV30 won't work for you if rolling shutter can cause a problem in your work. Giving up the XL2 for it is iffy, you'll really start to miss those manual controls, let me tell you. The XHA1 would make more sense plus you'll still be able to use it with your XL2 for SD work or you could bump up your XL2 stuff to HD with Instant HD or some software solution like that.
 
I would sell the XL2 if I went to the XH A1 but I wouldn't get as much for it because I would keep most of the accessories as they will work with the XH A1.
 
I just bought my second HV20 (for dirt cheap, too).

It all depends on your uses. Personally, I want the best image quality with the smallest form factor. Until Scarlet hits the market, the HV20/HV30 series seems to be the best option, and at a great price too.

So I don't think you are crazy. Arguably, it would be crazy to spend $2k more for a camera that doesn't work as well for you!
 
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