A1 footage quality

J

Jokerswild

Well-known member
I guess this is an apples to oranges question but I just invested in two A1's with all the associated gadgets. My primary source of income from using these cameras will be from doing training films and of course short documentary work. I wlll present the footage on DVD to my clients. With all these solid state cameras coming out with larger chips (EX1) I am now wondering if I made the right move. I guess for the price, it was a good deal and I am already seeing better quality with these cameras than I have seen before. I am just wondering how much better the footage is from these larger chipped cameras..Especially as seen thru the eyes of my clients when they play the DVD end result on their LCD projectors?

Also would the footage be of acceptable quality if I produced a 30 second spot for local companies that would air as commercials on TV?
 
I have an A1 that I bought about a month ago. I've been impressed with the quality and so far, my clients have as well. As for the 30 second spot, it really depends on what station they have it aired on and what that station's requirements are. For local companies, you're more than likely airing on local stations - should be fine.

I haven't worked with the EX1, so I can't really comment on my thoughts of the larger chips. This is a time where cameras are exploding - the "new DVX" is supposed to be released in fall. Has great potential and everything and I'm sure a lot of people are waiting for that. The Sony line of cameras that was just released is also astounding. Cameras will constantly change and for now, I don't think you wasted your money. I'll keep mine until I make back double what I paid for it, sell it and move on to a newer camera. I just hate to be a beta tester for new cameras that come out.

I like to hear all the sound reviews and not base my buy on technical specs alone. Be happy with your purchase and if your clients like the quality, there's no problem!

-Kegan
 
Jokerswild,

Personally, as an XH-A1 user, I think you made a great choice with the A1. As Kegan said, if you are happy with the camera's quality, and your clients are as well, then you should not have to worry. I highly doubt that on an SD DVD that there would be too much descernable difference between A1 and EX1 footage.

On an HD monitor, HD footage differences between the two cams would probably be noticeable, but then you would have to determine how much better the EX1 is (theoretically). The A1 carries a great 'bang-for-your-buck' value. Also, you probably were able to afford your 2 A1's for the price of 1 EX1. If I were in your shoes and felt that I needed the EX1, and could get away with using just one camera, then I would get it, but then you only have 1 camera. There of course will be situations where you may need 2 cameras filming at once.

Of course, NAB 2008 is coming soon. And after NAB there is IBC, so there will be some new cameras announced then from the usual suspects: Sony, Panasonic (possibly a new HVX and their HMC150), Canon (maybe an AVC-HD XH-A2 or XL-H1), JVC, RED (Scarlet). Of course it will be a while after any announcements until any new cameras actually ship. I'm pretty intrigued by RED's Scarlet. Until we know what it is, what it can do, and how much$$; I would be willing to be it might give the EX1 a run for its money.

Personally, I think the A1 is the best value-for-quality camera out now, until more light is shed on any new stuff later this year. If something really advanced comes out, you can always sell your A1 and use that cash towards the new technology (not that you would need to).

Anyways, just some of my thoughts and feelings on the A1 and other cameras. Hope this helps.
 
Jokerswild said:
Also would the footage be of acceptable quality if I produced a 30 second spot for local companies that would air as commercials on TV?
Click to expand...

Local companies? I say absolutely acceptable. But if you need further proof, try looking thru the A1 archives here at dvxuser for examples.
 
Thanks a lot for the opinions. I am not at all unhappy with my dual-A1s. And like you say, down the road, I could always sell them and upgrade. I think my plan is to start making some good $$$ with what I have and then later on see what is available to upgrade. I have also learned from my 30 year still photography career that buying the latest and greatest camera is not always the best decision. You end up being a beta tester for the company to help them get the bugs out.
 
I have an a1 while a friend of mine has an hvx200. I really like the hvx200 and think panasonic did a great job with the camera and my friend loves his hvx but he has said on more than one occasion that i got a very capable camera for under 4k.

The a1 is a great camera that has alot of potential.
 
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