-DVX100b-

In the news earlier this week there was talk of the European model's new features (which should be the same for the NTCS version). The only 16x9 difference was that squeeze mode will actually be displayed as 16x9 instead of stretched in the viewfinder. This has no effect on the image at all, just helps you monitor squeeze mode better. It seems the majority of people do not use this mode anyway (the 100 doesn't have it), and as disjecta has pointed out, you can do much better stretching in post with letterbox (or just crop off bottom and top).

Other differences I've seen do not justify missing the rebate and deal on the 100a. Looks like the B will be able to share timecode and settings with another camera over firewire, so I can only see that being worthwhile if you are getting 2 and need that. The upgrade from 100 to 100a seems to have fixed the 100's shortcomings. The move to 100b just seems to add a few new pro features that they are probably using on other new models (like the hvx) so was easy to add.
 
i love how the rebate has gone from 300 to 500 bucks, yet the total price after rebate is still about 3100 bucks. Marketing guys are geniuses :)
 
Yes, if using 16:9 shooting, this would be a good camera. However, if they release it at $4k MSRP, then you may as well just get an XL2 at that point which is native 16:9 or save a few hundred bucks and get a DVX100A. That is unless the apparent "DVX-look" matters to you or the small form factor. After that, you're heading into HD(V) territory: HVX200, XLH1, and HD100U.
 
I know I'm sounding like a broken record here but I am in the same situation as others and am looking at making a decision about getting the DVX 100 A with rebate or wait for B with probably no rebate. The following was posted a couple of times before but with no response from people who may be in the position to respond. The answers to the two question would be real helpful.

Although, I have just realized that maybe Panasonic reps are not answeing on purpose because if the press release is correct about a price reduction for new DV cameras then the 100-B model maybe be close to the 100-A model even with the rebate on the 100-A and they want to deplete the 100-A cameras so dealers don't have a lot in stock. Once again here is my original post:

https://eww.pavc.panasonic.co.jp/pr...fo/ibc/132.html

Below is an excerpt from a Panasonic European website (URL above) which has the following information about the new DVX 100 B.

"Improved colour reproduction with advanced image adjustments have enhanced this already high quality unit allowing productions to cut material shot on this Camcorder into other formats with even more ease.

With the release of the P2miniCam, prices for all Panasonics SD mini DVs has been brought down making production on these high quality units much more cost effective."

Jan, or anybody who can answer:

1. What might the 'Improved colour reproduction with advanced image adjustments" be for the DVX 100 B?

2. How will the statement, "Prices for all Panasonics SD mini DVs has been brought down" be reflected in the price of the new camera?

Thanks.
 
Richie White said:
jdstan,

What make and model is the lens hood adapter and what does it go for? I'm in the same boat as DarkGlobe. I've got the money, now I need to decide which model to buy. The 16x9 viewing is really the major factor that matters to me.

the hood is $250 and its century
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/con...s&Q=&sku=361579&is=REG&addedTroughType=search

they also make an eyepiece for $340
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/con...s&Q=&sku=323245&is=REG&addedTroughType=search

these are B&H prices; I'm sure EVS could do better

But at 3300 or 3400 (100A minus rebate plus eyepiece or hood) it might be best to wait and see actual price + DVXuser discount at EVS are.

Also, the hood is heavy enough to tip the lcd downward when you don't want it to, but I use a 6" bungie looped around the top handle and this provides the proper resistance. If anyone goes this route I woulod be happy to email you one of the exact bungies I use as they come in multi-pacs.

The 16X9 in camera monitoring is obviously preferable but raises two questions:
1) Can you flip the display into 16X9 mode if you are using the anamorphic adaptor and shooting normal, or does it auto engage when squeeze mode is enabled?
2) This will help with framing and will work great for squeeze but does not adress the more serious challenge of shooting with the anamorphic adaptor. Even if you can manually engage 16X9 monitoring, the LCD is still not high enough resolution to achieve critical focus by eye when using the anamporhic adaptor.
 
I thought I read somewhere that the 16x9 in the LCD was enabled via a menu option and then it is stuck on so it can be used with the anamorphic adapter. If I find the link I'll post it.

I think the 100B will be of most interest to 16x9er's that don;t have the capability to us external 16x9 monitors on location. It is very helpful to see true 16x9 when composing shots.
 
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