GH2 ETC vs Normal ISO Equivalents for Noise

R

Ralph B

Well-known member
We all know ETC mode is noisier than normal mode, but I was curious to see exactly how much noisier. So, I did a series of tests and then examined the footage. This is not a scientific test, but rather a subjective evaluation. I feel it's reasonably close to what's actually there. As you can see, the progression is not linear.

ISO Equivalents for Noise

ETC * Normal

160 = 1000
200 = 1250
250 = 1600
320 = 2000
400 = 2500
500 = 2500
640 = 3200
800 = 3200
1000 = 4000
1250 = 4000
1600 = 5000
2000 = 6400

Example: ETC at ISO 160 has the same noise as Normal at ISO 1000.

So, what is this good for? Well, if you're trying to match a look between the two modes, this could be helpful. Other than that, it's just interesting GH2 trivia.:smile:
 
I've shot a lot of ETC mode since I've had the camera, it's interesting you find 160 to be equivalent to 1000. Always looked like 400 to me. So the maximum ISO was 640 before it got too bad.

Least to me, anyway.
 
Like I said, it was a subjective test. I also think it has a lot to do with what the subject matter is. For example, a blank, light wall will have a less noise than a dark shadow at the same ISO. Perhaps I was being conservative with the ISO 160 equivalent. I would like it to be equal to ISO 400.:smile:
 
I think Balazer over on PV actually did a scientific one now that I think about it, and he said the noise was a stop and a half dB greater in ETC. Or maybe two and a half.

Maybe ask him about it.
 
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