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JonMW

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Hello All,

I'm new to the forum. I was convinced to join after perusing through a few threads.

I'm an aspiring independent filmmaker with a background in editing. I've done documentaries, promos for companies, and of course short films.

I'm in the process of purchasing my first prosumer camera and I've had my eye on the Panasonic DVX100B. Why? The 24p is amazing IMO and for what I want to do it's all I need. I'm not into HD and I'm not rich to buy P2 cards lol.

I want advice from the forum. I did my research about the 100B but I want to hear from the members. Am I investing in a good product (it is a few years old)? I plan on buying from B&H.

Suggestions and help is greatly appreciated.
 
Well you're going to open a hornet's nest here, I'll bet. So I might as well be the first hornet. :)

First of all, welcome to DVXUser! This is a great place to learn everything there is to know.

On the subject of cameras -- especially SD vs. HD -- there are likely to be strong opinions on both sides. I have a DVX100b and I love it! HD is a wonderful thing, but the HD cameras that are in the DVX100b's price range all have the same problem -- they tend to get a lot of video noise in low light. At least that seems to be the consensus. I'm familiar with the Canon HV30 and the Panasonic HMC40, and they both seemd to have that problem. Not so with my trusty DVX.

Now if you're going to do moviemaking, that may not be as big a problem as it seems. Why? Because the truth is any scene you shoot -- even if it's supposed to be indoors at night -- you're going to pour a LOT of light on it. 'Darkness' will be created by a combination of things including flagging of lights, controlling the camera iris, adding color gels, and tweaking exposure and contrast. I've not tried either the HV30 or the HMC40 under those conditions.

What I do know is that the DVX100b performs beautifully in low light, as well as 'normal' light. I like the size, the weight, and the features of the camera. As you said, it does all I need. And there are ways to shoot with it and uprez the footage for near-HD quality.

If it were me, in today's market, I'd probably still buy the DVX100b. I have to confess, I've not shopped for and compared cams lately. If I did, my opinion might change. But right now I'm very happy with my DVX. I hope whatever camera you choose, it will make you happy as well.

Best of luck!
 
Hey,

Welcome to the forums.

I love the DVX, it is still one of my favorite SD prosumer cameras around. Combined with a 35mm adapter like the SG, and the looks is something else. I actually sold an xh-a1 in order to buy a DVX. Would I buy one today? Probably not, especially not new. If I were you, I would check the marketplace and try and find a good deal on a used one. However, depending on your budget, I would also suggest maybe picking up a used HVX. I have a sinking suspicion that in the next few months you may see a large number of both DVX and HVX cameras for sale in the marketplace. I also wouldn't worry to much about buying/selling on here. I have both bought and sold many things through the marketplace with no problems whatsoever. Having said all that, what do you for see the majority of your work going to? Web? T.V?
 
I plan on doing mostly music videos, local venues, and short films. Nothing too serious. I've had my eye on this HVX200A kit from B&H. I'm conflicted now because 100B is an older camera and the 200A has HD and P2; essentially newer. To me, the HVX will do the new stuff that peope may ask for (HD) and the stuff that I want it to do (24p, CineGamma, etc.). Although I mentioned my disinterest in HD the fact is HD is in. RIP SD lol.

Here is the link to the 200A kit

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/458857-REG/Panasonic_AG_HVX200A_3CCD_Starter_Kit.html
 
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