HPX250: Need some good advise HPX250 or EX3 need someone that has used both . . . help . . .

rzr219

rzr219

Well-known member
Ok,

I have a Sony DSR250 currently, and I have saved up to go HD. I have done my homework on cameras and have narrowed it down to the HPX250 (New)or EX3 (Used). I love the specs on the HPX250, 4:2:2, P2 card , Zoom Lens and lightweight, 4 audio channels the list goes on and on. However I have a concern about the auto focus I keep reading so much about. That is my main scare right now. Here is what I shoot, Stage Performances of High School Plays, and Other non Profit productions and wedding videos and small interviews. For the stage shoots I use a remote control for Zoom and run manual or auto focus depending on where my camera is pointed, lights change up and down, but I run almost full manual with a small monitor for focus. For weddings its auto focus normally well light except when the lights go down.
I like the remote controls for the HPX250 smooth control of zoom and other features, I don't hear good things about the EX3 remote control for the zoom, too jerky speed is not smooth from start to stop when in progressive mode. The EX3 has 1/2 sensors, love that for low light and the auto focus is really solid, but it only records in 4:2:0 (I know I could get an external recorder but want to avoid that).

Both cameras cost the same 5K for the HPX250 (new and with a 64GB card) and 5K for the EX3 (Used). So since I have never shoot in HD before and I will be buying just one good camera give me some insights on what your thoughts are. I was leaning toward the HPX250 but I am nervous about its auto focus.

Thanks You.:undecided
 
Can't speak to the auto focus, never use it on any of our cameras. 250 has a vastly superior codec, and lens reach, but will be slower unless you go to PAP Level 1, and even then, if 85% zoomed in or more, you will be shooting at f3.4, even if opened up all the way.

Not sure why you want an EX3, an EX1 will give you the same result for around $3Kish used or you could buy a used EX1R for $5K.
 
The autofocus doesn't seem to be a very big issue, unless you're fairly close up, which it doesn't sound like you'd be for most of your uses. I've only used the autofocus once for twice, so I don't have much experience there.

Overall I consider the camera to be a great value, and I think you're better off going with the HPX250 over the EX3, although I have next to no experience with the EX3.

With the 5 year warranty from Panasonic, its hard to see how you'd be going wrong with it.

rzr219 said:
Ok,

I have a Sony DSR250 currently, and I have saved up to go HD. I have done my homework on cameras and have narrowed it down to the HPX250 (New)or EX3 (Used). I love the specs on the HPX250, 4:2:2, P2 card , Zoom Lens and lightweight, 4 audio channels the list goes on and on. However I have a concern about the auto focus I keep reading so much about. That is my main scare right now. Here is what I shoot, Stage Performances of High School Plays, and Other non Profit productions and wedding videos and small interviews. For the stage shoots I use a remote control for Zoom and run manual or auto focus depending on where my camera is pointed, lights change up and down, but I run almost full manual with a small monitor for focus. For weddings its auto focus normally well light except when the lights go down.
I like the remote controls for the HPX250 smooth control of zoom and other features, I don't hear good things about the EX3 remote control for the zoom, too jerky speed is not smooth from start to stop when in progressive mode. The EX3 has 1/2 sensors, love that for low light and the auto focus is really solid, but it only records in 4:2:0 (I know I could get an external recorder but want to avoid that).

Both cameras cost the same 5K for the HPX250 (new and with a 64GB card) and 5K for the EX3 (Used). So since I have never shoot in HD before and I will be buying just one good camera give me some insights on what your thoughts are. I was leaning toward the HPX250 but I am nervous about its auto focus.

Thanks You.:undecided
Click to expand...
 
I am going to go back into my local store to check both out once more and compare each. I was doing a stage performance last night and it was so dark, around F2 to get the shot, but my auto focus was holding rock steady. I wont be zooming as much as the lens will go, my guess only 12x. I also don't hear good reviews about the zoom controls for the EX1 and that is what makes what I do look so good. A smooth zoom, I guess I am asking for allot in a camera for 5K. I want to go forward with technology, not backward but I don't have 15K to make that happen. I love all the specs on the 250, I just wish Pany would say how they will address the auto focus issue. It will be hard to go from no zoom to half zoom while focusing, then back as action happens.

Also what is "but will be slower unless you go to PAP Level 1".

I have the funds to get my new camera, but I want to make a wise decision and investment all the way around.

Thank you for all your reply's, I have went over the specs of each camera. Only for lens the ex1 I like, for everything else the 250.
 
Also what is "but will be slower unless you go to PAP Level 1".
Click to expand...
The EX1 is slightly more sensitive than the HPX250 when the HPX250 is in PAP Level 2. The HPX250 is slightly more sensitive than the EX1 when the HPX250 is in PAP level 1. It's a menu setting you can change on the HPX.
 
"it would be nice if the current PAP setting is displayed on the LCD monitor. "

I agree. Sometimes I forget to go back to PAP2 after shootimg in PAP1.​
 
For what it's worth. We just got a HPX250 in and we couldn't be happier. Stunning resolution, great lens, amazing codec and under $5K. We've used the Sony EX series cameras for awhile and in my opinion, the image looks quite soft compared to the HPX250. I was also a little worried since we had a bad experience with the HPX300 but it seems those issues have been resolved. If I had to find any fault with the HPX250, it would be the physical "feel" of the camera. The body feels a bit "plastic" but so does the Sony EX cameras. Anyway, it's a phenomenal camera at it's price point.
 
Ok, so after finally going back to my local store (Full Compass) I played with the 250, zooming walking around. Trying out the auto focus in dark areas, light gray walls (it did move some, but this is what I expected). I spent about 1.5 hours trying out all different things. I am glad I did, this forum is great, however sometimes you can be in the middle of the forest and not see the trees in front of you. After spending time with the camera, I am pleased with its performance for what I will be doing, Stage Performances, Weddings and what ever else I can make money doing. I saw little things, however would have never noticed them for the work I do. So since I will be taking advantage of the rebate on the P2 I will be ordering next week. I want to thank everyone for there help. One question I do have is I have noticed many people saying to buy the P2 card used for half the price, but I have not come across such deals. Where are you finding these. My typical shoot is 1.5 to 2.5 hours long non stop so I am looking for a 64GB card, are only the smaller cards on the cheap?

PS. This book, by Barry I hear so much about how do I get one?

Regards,
Robert
 
When you buy the hpx250 there is a card for a free book. Just fill it in and mail it.

I find the HPX250 is amazing for Stage Performance. If there are very dark scenes you can add a little gain and you can't see the grain. You can also go PAP1 and really increase the sensitivity. I just think it's the best buy out there right now.
 
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