Hi-Def Monitors

[rtmst3k]

I'm using an HMC-150 for a short film and the display on the camera is unacceptable for seeing accurate focus. There are other tools on the camera for achieving good focus and picture (waveform monitor, vectorscope, etc.), I've been told that an auxiliary monitor might be a good choice since we're not doing "run and gun" shots.

Looking at HD-capable monitors that are marketed for production, the prices are WAY out of line, like thousands of dollars. These displays are on the order of 7 inches diagonal in size.

However, at CostCo, I can get a 23" LCD monitor with full HD resolution, 3 ms refresh time, with DVI and HDMI inputs, for about $275.00. I can get smaller monitors than this down in the $140 range as well (sub 19 inch, but they don't have HD resolution.)

I'm assuming that the LCD panels used by HD production companies are NOT consumer-volume monitors, and that their manufacturing costs are higher, and there is just not enough volume in the market to get these types of displays at a cheaper price point. But I still think $5000 is WAY out of line for what you get.

Are there any small HD-capable monitors available at a decent price point (with an HDMI input) ?

Thanks!
Randy

 

[Huy Vu]

To answer your question, when you can find a consumer LCD monitor that is light enough to be camera mountable, can be powered by battery out in the field and still has a high enough resolution and image then please point me to it. It is a niche market.

With that said, there are several options now on the market for about $600-800 such as the Manhattan LCD or the SmallHD monitors.