AC130: Focus updates anyone?

L

Lou Bruno

Well-known member
Has anyone updated their camera yet for the new focus assists? I have not made up my mind if it is worth it as it doesn't seem to address the auto-focus issue but just adds two more aids such as a turbo button and expanded focus which probably wouldn't really help a videographer using the camera in auto-focus mode. It would probably be too late to use the assist functions if the camera goes out of focus. In my case, I use manual focus. For others, do you think it would really help those who need auto-focus? I was also thinking maybe it would be a good idea to update the focus assists as the resale my be higher when the time comes to sell the camera?

I have not decided what to do as it not about the $300 but rather functionality.
 
I was quoted a lot more in Canada $675, when our dollar is pretty much at par with the US. I'd like to hear other people's results as well. I agree with your resale point and I also think it would be handy to have the faster focus button functionality.
 
I have tried a couple of times in Canada to get availability information on the 160 -> 160A upgrade. The only info I am able to get is '... not yet available'

If the price is indeed going to be $675 then I will probably sell what I have and go to another manufacturer.

I was able to confirm that any 160 not purchased in the USA cannot be sent to N.J. for upgrades.
 
I bought my camera through the US so I'm guessing I might have to send it back to the US. (I'm glad my company has a US mailing address) I was quoted $375 for parts and $300 by the local Panasonic guy, but he's the local warranty repair guy, he doesn't work directly for Panasonic.
 
Hi Walter

I haven't even seen an offer here but for me I certainly would be loathe to pay 20% of camera cost and the auto focus is still not up to par...I'm pretty glad I downgraded back to my new HMC82's the AF is magic and with auto ND filters in the cameras you can go from an indoor situation to an outdoor one with not only accurate exposure but accurate AWT as well. If I had kept the 130's an upgrade would set me back nearly $1400!!!! I really think they should have done it for free!!

Chris
 
Well, assuming this is a bug and not a feature, it's rather off putting to have a new unit with 3 years service where a fix is described as a "new feature".

I have no problem with paying $300 and at that price, don't care whether it was/is a bug or a feature because I really like my 160.

But, if the price doubles, then we are in a different ballgame entirely where I will probably quickly go in the direction you went, Chris.
 
jchristie said:
I was quoted a lot more in Canada $675, when our dollar is pretty much at par with the US.
Click to expand...

Was this quote from a reliable source? Did it come from a Panasonic Canada employee, or from a Panasonic dealer?

How much is the VAT tax in Canada? Could it account for a significant part of this big difference??

The exchange rate between the Canadian and US dollars is very close now. Almost at 1 to 1.
 
jchristie said:
I bought my camera through the US so I'm guessing I might have to send it back to the US. (I'm glad my company has a US mailing address) I was quoted $375 for parts and $300 by the local Panasonic guy, but he's the local warranty repair guy, he doesn't work directly for Panasonic.
Click to expand...

You should contact the Panasonic Service Center in either LA or Secaucus. It is $300.
 
Here in Spain / Europe update is now available for 280 € (300 $), today I have confirmed and is available on the website of panasonic when you walk with your camera recorded.
I wonder if it's worth updating the camera and if we notice a big change.
If anyone has any experience with it would be important to your opinion on this forum.
Thanks and greetings from Estepona / Malaga / Andalusia / Spain.
 
Here is an update re the AC160A upgrades for Canada.

My local dealer called today to advise that my unit can now be upgraded - the price is around $300 with prompt turnaround (whereas the logistics are such that my dealer is not at present able to do the installation of the kit, they are agreeable to looking after sending it to Panasonic Canada HQ and calling me for pickup once it comes back).

This is good news and good service.

I plan to bring it in tomorrow.
 
Last edited:
Just had a quick exchange with my counterpart in Canada. They are charging $450 for the 160 upgrade. Apparently they didn't sell the 130 so there isn't a need to sell that upgrade there. Contact your local Authorized Panasonic Service Center.

And yes, the camera is only going to be upgraded by the country where it was originally purchased. In other words, Canada only upgrades Canadian cameras and the US only does the US cameras.

All the best,

Jan
 
My unit goes out Monday afternoon to Toronto and should be back Wednesday.

I will test it next Thursday/Friday and provide feedback.
 
My AC 160 is purchased in the US. I'm definitely interested in the upgrade, but I'm not sure where to call or send it. I live in Indiana. Quite frankly shipping my baby off scares me to death. I'm starting to get used to it, and I really like the picture quality. So far I've videoed three weddings with it.
 
CEWest said:
My AC 160 is purchased in the US. I'm definitely interested in the upgrade, but I'm not sure where to call or send it. I live in Indiana.
Click to expand...

Did you buy it from a local dealer or online? If from your local dealer contact them if online I would contact Panny direct as you will most likely be shipping it. Make sure you insure it for market replacement.
 
Bought it from B&H, because I don't have anything locally. Definitely insurance, probably UPS. I do appreciate your reply. Thanks
 
Who wants to send his cam, and it uses the original carton should tape over the printed reference to the internal batteries (which are not even sent).
My reason was almost back from Dusseldorf.
I wanted was lucky that I had called in Cardiff and I inquired after the whereabouts of my camera.
Thereupon checked out the nice customer service and the Researcher to the conclusion that the program was therefore classified as "dangerous goods".


Regards, Ruediger
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top