Any opinions on the Sony PDW-F330 XDCAM HD?

[markyf]

I know it's a few years old now but there's a used on in my local classifieds. Looks like a decent camera considering I may be able to get it for the price of a new HPX170 + 2 16GB cards + tax. I like the fact that it's 1/2 inch CCDs and that it records to disc for archiving.

What's the general consensus on this camera? I honestly know nothing about it.

Cheers,

Mark

 

[vanvideo]

Well, I don't own one. I've never used one. But I can tell you the video is good enough that they're cleared for 100% acquisition for Discovery HD Silver programming. Actually, the 350/355 are cleared, but how can you tell the difference between the two cameras?
It doesn't have the best low-light capabilities, but definitely better than 1/3" chips. Apparently the 1/2" EX line are better for low light, but then you have to deal with the CMOS chips. I think the EX cams even have sharper pics (1920x1080 compared to 1440x1080), but don't hold me to that.
The 330 doesn't have HD/ SDI out -the HPX170 does. It doesn't have variable frame rates - the 170 does. It only shoots in 1080 modes - the 170 does 720 and 1080. 4:2:0 color -170 is 4:2:2.
Still, I understand the 330 is a very good camera, and the discs are relatively affordable and good for archiving. The video should be sharper than the 170s.
Does your NLE edit XDCAM? Do you have a deck to play back the discs? I understand you can use the camera for that. I don't know if playing back discs causes any wear and tear on the internals. The discs do spin, so there is a motor in there somewhere.

Actually, you really need an owner of a 330 to chime in here.

 

[markyf]

Cheers!

Yes, you're bang on about just about everything. This camera's intriguing. Obviously if it's was the 350 with HD/SDI, it would open up some real possibilities. But I think since it's not, that opens up an avenue for bargaining.

For what I'm planning, I don't need variable frame rates. I'm also a little scared of CMOS... I'm aiming for a very handheld, intimate style. And you don't need the deck... just drag and drop from the camera with next to no wear and tear. Harmless to the camera. I also understand they know make 50gb discs which will store about 2 hours of 35mbps for about $40.

I'm intrigued. If he doesn't get any other interest, I'm thinking I may be able to get his F330 + Fujinon lens + 2 batteries + charger + 15 23gb discs + mounting plate for about US $7,000. Well that's about as much as I can pay.