My DVX200 Lens Failed - What Would You Do?

R

rpc

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I have a pair of DVX 200's that have been great for the last 4-5 years. Always carefully stored in hard cases. Anyway, one developed an issue with the lens to where the image jumps around when zooming in and out. It works fine other than that, so I can still use it as a backup. But I sent it to Panasonic and they wanted over 2k to put a new lens in. Just wondering if there are any alternatives out there. If I have to spend that much, I'd rather get something new. Definitely need the 4/3 sensor as we shoot mostly low light recitals/dance shows. I was looking around and it doesn't seem like there is a newer model of DVX 200, so thinking about just picking another up, but really stinks that repair cost is so high.
 
For around the same money, the closest you'll get is a 1" sensor, and there are quite a few of those.

Or a S35 JVC LS300, which is one-of-a-kind and more of a cinema camera, but you can use the zoom rocker in 1080p.
 
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Yeah, that's what I was thinking. I can at least keep the busted one as my constant full stage shot.
 
rpc said:
I have a pair of DVX 200's that have been great for the last 4-5 years. Always carefully stored in hard cases. Anyway, one developed an issue with the lens to where the image jumps around when zooming in and out. It works fine other than that, so I can still use it as a backup.
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I've heard of this before. Have you tried a remote zoom demand to see if the lens behaves the same way? If the zoom functions correctly with a remote servo controller then the most likely culprit is actually the zoom rocker switch. Especially if it has had a lot of use which is possible seeing you've run it for some four to five years. A zoom rocker switch should be available as a spare part and way cheaper than a whole lens replacement. Also carefully inspect the zoom gears on the lens and clean with an old toothbrush or similar just in case you have accumulated crud in the gear ring. On B4 lenses I now regularly clean out all the focus, zoom, and iris gears as I've had crud affect smooth movement in the past. I also brush the gears with a little Silicone spray on the toothbrush. Really helps smooth gear engagement. One such case was after filming in a wood mill. The zoom became inconsistent and a bit jerky and lo and behold it was air-borne sawdust that was still a little sap moist that had settled in the lens zoom ring gear. Just enough of it to hamper smooth rotational movement.

Chris Young

Chris Young
 
ux90 or ux180 are 1" but yield the same if not better results, cx350 is better but much more expensive
 
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@cyvideo:

How do you access and get into the gears and rocker switch? Is there a disassembly schematic available?

Thanks.
 
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David, does this happen when you zoom manually (hand on the lens zoom ring), or just with the servo?
 
David_ said:
@cyvideo:

How do you access and get into the gears and rocker switch? Is there a disassembly schematic available?
Click to expand...

No, I don't disassemble anything. I just manually rotate the rings, inspect closely and brush their teeth.

Chris Young
 
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