hvx200a vs hvx205a vs hpx170

A

Andor

Active member
Let me start by saying I'm sorry, as I know you get similar posts a lot. However, I am more or less new to all of this. This will be my first camera purchase, and I was wondering if I could get all the feedback possible towards helping me pick a camera.

From what I've read:
hvx205a is an imported Japanese hvx200a. It's cheaper, but generally comes with fewer accessories and a lesser warranty.

hpx170 has the most features, but some say the actual picture looks a bit grainy or not as crisp as a hvx200a. It costs more, better warranty, fully p2, etc etc.

Is there any reason why I should avoid the hvx205a? I live in the United States, so will I be able to buy the E series p2 cards here, other items, and not run into any issues with filming and editing?

What are the opinions on the hpx170 versus the hvx200a?

I have more-or-less talked myself out of buying a hvx200. It is my understanding that the hpx170 and hvx200a have the same low-lighting capabilities, better depth of field, etc.

Overall I have just under or around $6,000 that I could spend towards a camera. However, I don't want to blow that much otherwise I'd just wait for a Scarlet (and I'd have a bit more money to use for it then anyway).

Currently I am eyeballing this one:
http://cgi.ebay.com/Panasonic-AG-HV...eras?hash=item335433d698&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14

(let me know if that link doesn't work)

What do you guys think of the lenses and general purchase of that package? I would get two E series cards and another battery on top of it, of course.

Thanks for all replies!
 
I have the 200 and the 170. The difference between the 170 and the 200a appears related to the lack of a tape drive.

I don't see the 170 as producing video that is a bit grainy and not as crisp as the 200a. Maybe you can identify where you read that

As to the eBay auction, my educated advice is to avoid that purchase. That isn't an Panasonic authorized dealer and it's a turkey on what you will get

Right now, you can find a 170 with a p2 card and $500 rebate for about $5100 or less if shop dvxuser sponsors.
 
I have read that the image seems different on a few places, not too many. A quick Google search led to this thread:

http://www.dvxuser.com/V6/showthread.php?t=164173

Also, it does seem you have speedy replies! Thanks!

Do you know if a hvx205a is 100% fine to use?

ps- I forgot to mention that I don't mind buying used, and prefer it to some degree. I'm looking to get the cheapest and best deal possible.
 
David S. said:
I have the 200 and the 170. The difference between the 170 and the 200a appears related to the lack of a tape drive.

I don't see the 170 as producing video that is a bit grainy and not as crisp as the 200a. Maybe you can identify where you read that

As to the eBay auction, my educated advice is to avoid that purchase. That isn't an Panasonic authorized dealer and it's a turkey on what you will get

Right now, you can find a 170 with a p2 card and $500 rebate for about $5100 or less if shop dvxuser sponsors.
Click to expand...
David how are you?

I would like you to guide me up. I am interested in buying the DVX200A or HPX170 me to use marriage to low light and locations such as theaters. In this situation which camera is more sensitive to light between the two, and which offers better image quality?
I am from Brazil and if my English (google translator) I is not good patience
 
Thanks for the responses everyone! I am just trying to find the best camera at the best price.

Oh, and if anyone else has any other suggestions, I am leaning towards a solid state camera of some form. I see Grey market is bad, any suggestions on buying used?
 
David S. said:
Best to start here:

http://www.kenstone.net/fcp_homepage/hpx_170_evolution_brockett.html
Click to expand...
Thanks!

Unfortunately I have a new question... haha.

How do you feel these cameras stack up against the GH1? I am ultimately going to be filming short / indie films with this camera and am curious if spending that much money on an hvx is worth it compared to buying a GH1.

I mean, if I were to spend too much on a camera then I would just hold out for Scarlet and go all out, but from what I have read the GH1 is amazing. Any massive flaws in the GH1 I'm unaware of?

ps- The responses mean a lot to me, I am new and trying to learn a lot. Also, changing the flow of this to a GH1 makes this thread slightly off-topic, sorry.
 
GH1 shoots AVCHD at full HD. 4:2:0 color space, and has to be transcoded. OTOH HVX200/170 shoots DVCProHD, which edits like butter.

GH1 CMOS shutter rather than HVX200/170 Global shutter.

As to Scarlet -- who knows what the cam will do when it actually becomes available.
 
Does the HPX170 records 720x960 or 720x1280 ?how about in 1080P mode is 1440x1080 or 1980.1080? i have looked lota places couldn't find the answer can someone tell me please
 
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