first camera...

Aschu

Well-known member
I'm looking to buy myself a camera. I'm looking for one of a caliber higher than that of a consumer camera. I would prefer not to spend more than $2000 though i don't know if that is possible. I really want the Panasonic DVX 100B but not sure if i can afford it. I don't want to buy used either. Any suggestions would be welcome.
 
I would go for a used 100A if you can find one. As long as it was well maintained, that would be your best bargain. I haven't been keeping up on the market value but I feel as though ~$1,500-1,600 for one with a few hours on the heads isn't unreasonable. Just make sure you have a little extra cash to get a decent tripod that will actually support the thing.
 
B&H has the Canon GL2 for around $2000 new. The GL2 is definately better than a consumer cam, but it's not quite as good as a DVX.
If you wanted to take the HD route, the Sony HDR-FX7 is $2000 as well. It's on about the same level as the GL2. However, neither of the aforementioned cameras have 24p.
 
used dvx100b's are in the marketplace on the site. they are usually well maintained some with very few hours on it for under 2000. check it out. if u really dont want to buy used 100b's are now about $2,300 from spec comm and other places i think. so maybe u want to hold off and save a little more
 
gl2 does not produce and image that is anywhere near the quality of the DVX and the dvx is worth the extra money, more manual controls and and overall better product.
 
Woahhhh do NOT buy a gl2... that would be a terrible UNGODLY waste of money. That camera is so aged it's unfathomable.

For a first cam, I would highly recommend something along the lines of an hv20. You might lack some manual controls but it makes up for that in its HD picture.

Like you said, it will be your first camera. THe hv20 will last you a very long time (or a camera similar in calibur to it) and you can definitely make some sweet movies with it. Given some lighting and good audio, it's golden.

And after you've gained all knowledge you can from it, you can move on to a prosumer or professional camera past the dvx100b and still have an awesome hd camera for vacations and such.

(p.s. this is exactly waht I did).
 
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