Is using a EX1 / EX3 much different than using an HPX ?

[EDV]

Sony XDCAMs are much more popular than Panasonic P2s where I live. I'm thinking I should be able to work with XDCAM eventhough I don't have an EX1 or EX3. Are they much different? What are the major differences / advantages, and should I hire one of these cams to become more familiar with it? EX3 seems particularly popular with television crews.

 

[ciencin]

I like EX cameras more but went with a HPX170 mostly due to the price difference. The SxS cards are a bit cheaper and (if I'm not mistaken) you can fit more on to a SxS card than a P2 card. The problem that I found with P2 is where I live is that nobody rents P2 cards or P2 readers, which is very problematic if I need an extra P2 card....

Another advantage of EX1 is that its built more sturdier. Not that I'm planning on playing basketball with my hpx but there are countless stories on this forum on how people dropped their EX1's and it still survived with no problems (wouldn't feel the same about the EX3 as I'm always paranoid about breaking the viewfinder when filming in a crowded place).

I do prefer the sensor and the 4:2:2 colour on the HPX though