DVX100B Exclusive First Test

yeah.. they pre-release version we got to test came with the Head Cleaner, but i think the package they sent may of just had the 100A accessory pack. A head cleaner is a good thing to have in my opinion as well instead of a tape, but its possible people abused it ( I have personally seen some pretty smart people that i saw run that tape for 2 minutes at a time) and caused premature head wear. The transport in the 100b is completely new from the 100a, so it Could be Panasonic's way of saying "take it to a pro to clean, these heads don't play nice with tape cleaners"

Instead of going and buying a cleaning tape.. i would suggest you buy a manual head cleaning kit ( the special swabs and fluid kits) and read here or elsewear detailed instructions how to swab your heads.. its so much better for your camera. Just be careful.
 
I just bought my DVX100B and I want to record 4:3 images, but shoot with 16:9 framing (just in case I need to crop in post). Would setting the aspect ration display to 16:9 and set the Aspect Conv (under Camera Setup in the menu) to Normal give me what I want??
 
No -- that'd just display the full 4:3 frame in a squashed-down aspect ratio.

To do what you want you'd have to use something like the ScreenSkins.
 
Barry_Green said:
No -- that'd just display the full 4:3 frame in a squashed-down aspect ratio.

To do what you want you'd have to use something like the ScreenSkins.
What is that? Sorry... Can you provide me with a link or something?
 
I think EVS sells 'em; try calling Rush at EVSOnline and ask him about it. They're inexpensive transparent overlays for your LCD screen that give 16:9 or 1.85 markings.
 
I was checking out the ag-dvx100b at panas' website and read this:
-Audio off tape or live E-E for delay free (echo free) monitoring (menu choice)
-More sensitive on-camera microphone
Ag-dvx100 and Ag-dvx100A already had a very good sound system (comparable to a dat recorder, so I read in many reviews). Would this second option help you eliminate the echo when you're recording dialogs on a large room with the oncamera mic? How much better is this new sound system?

Thanks guys

P.S - Barry, I just saw your "10000 post video". Tha was hilarious! You should put some of those dance moves on the next dvx book hahaha ;-)
 
Barry_Green said:
I think EVS sells 'em; try calling Rush at EVSOnline and ask him about it. They're inexpensive transparent overlays for your LCD screen that give 16:9 or 1.85 markings.

Yes, I bought them from EVS and there were two in the pack, I keep one on my LCD all the time, so now I shoot everything 4:3 and just use the overlay for visual framing if I intend to crop for 16:9 in post. Also, the overlay doesn't completely block out the top and bottom area, it's still visible but with a line on top and bottom separating the area. I also suspect that by using the overlay eventually I'll just get an eye for the 16:9 framing.
 
Sorry if i missed it, but the gain doesnt offer a higher setting than +12db does it? I don't often need more than +3db, but for B&W shooting, I like excess noise.
 
I am looking for a good low light capable camcorder for event photography. I will mainly be shooting weddings. So far I have been directed to the Sony PD170. Is the new Panasonic 100b capable of delivering a good picture under low light conditions like the PD170?

My budget is under $4,000.

I really appreciate your help.

Alvin:)
 
Oh it sure does :thumbsup: The DVX 100A or B deliver a cleaner image under the same lighting conditions than the PD170. The PD170 under very low light is very noisy, whereas the 100B has a cleaner image even with 3dB gain.
 
No RUSH ! - I disagree. The PD170 is MUCH better than the DVX100A in very low lighting. It's the one quality I miss after the PD150 - Try them side by side and I think you'll agree. - Having said that , I still wouldn't swap my DVX100A !!
 
Ruff.. are you comparing the DVX100A in 24p mode vs. the 170 in 60i mode.. flip the DVX100 into 60i mode and you will see a world of difference.
 
Dang it Jarred you beat me to it! :laugh: Ruff, I have done at least 15 side by sides for customers in a darkened lobby, and even went to studios with both cameras in tow to prove that point. Everytime, everyone agreed the DVX was cleaner and brighter, and bought DVX's.
 
Sounds more legit comin' from you anyhow :laugh:
Everyone thinks I got to bed with a DVX under my pillow :grin:
 
Rush said:
Sounds more legit comin' from you anyhow :laugh:
Everyone thinks I got to bed with a DVX under my pillow :grin:


WAYY too much information ha ha ha.. I bet you stash all your tapes in your little wee-man fridge.
 
does the fu11-frame feature mean that what you see on the 1cd/viewfinder, is exact1y what wi11 show up on the tv?? im not sure if thats what it meant.:huh:
sorry i had to use ones for my you-know-what-1etter..my u-know-what-1etter does not work
 
So I'm looking into getting one of these DVX-100B's. I'm new to the area of professional digital video cameras, so I'm trying to find the best deal for my money. I am an amateur videographer. I am looking into filming short films, weddings, pretty much anything I can. I am especially looking for a camera with 24p capability. Is this the best 24p camera for the value? Is there another camera out there that matches this one, or is the 100B the best all around? Do I need to consider other accessories, or is this thing ready to go out of the box? I really appreciate any help you may have. Thanks so much!
 
Back
Top