HVX200/HPX170 vs. Canon XH A1 vs. Sony HVR-Z1u

wildernesstv

New member
Hi, I film high speed mountain biking called downhill biking. Sometimes I film in the rain, and I'm always around dirt and rocks. Currently i shoot with a canon hv30, and am looking to upgrade. What are the pros and cons of these cameras specifically to my area?
 
did the size/quality/moveable(up and down)ness of the eyepiece get worse from hvx to hpx? the hpx looks cheaper in quality

what do people think?
 
I have no experience with the Canon and about a hot seconds worth with the Sony. The HVX & HPX are both solidly built cameras IMHO. If you are on the move, the focus assist features on the HPX will be better suited than the HVX, as well as the lighter camera body and more evenly balanced design. Frankly, unless you need to shoot DV tape, I'd say go with the HPX. It also has a few more I/O options, and a sturdier Firewire connection. The eye piece hasn't bothered me anymore than I'd expect; its not a tank, so there are some parts of it you need to be more careful with than others.
 
The HPX170 is ergonomically the best camera in the sub $10k market. It handles so well and is so intuitive for the type of shooting you are doing. I would also think that the variable frame rates would be right up your alley as well. With the new low cost P2 cards coming on-line, you can afford enough space to shoot all day with just two cards as well.

You can read more about the HPX170 in depth here http://www.kenstone.net/fcp_homepage/hpx_170_evolution_brockett.html

Dan

Enjoy!
 
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