Nex-7 vs Nex-Vg20 for video?

[AlexMacP]

I have the Nex-7 pre-ordered but now am wondering if perhaps the VG-20 might be a better option for video only.

I shoot narrative only and have no interest in the sound aspect of the 2 cameras. The NEX-7 looks like it would
be great for shooting discreetly on location. The Nex-VG20 with the less MP looks like it be a better low-light option.

Thoughts?

 

[brunerww]

...I shoot narrative only and have no interest in the sound aspect of the 2 cameras...

Hi Alex - if you:

1 ) have no need for headphone monitoring of in-camera sound;
2) have a DP or an external monitor and don't need a front facing LCD for composing shots while you're in front of the camera; and
3) never need to capture more than 29 minutes of continuous video in one take, then...

I would say get the NEX-7. Test video from Steve Huff looks fine in low light (H. Paul Moon's input in the comment section notwithstanding ;-)): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=trjdswMmQP8

As for me, I'm holding out for the VG20. I am a one man band and need the headphone jack, forward facing LCD, and unlimited recording time.

And competently shot VG20 test videos look pretty good too: http://vimeo.com/groups/nexvg20/videos/31024014

Still waiting for a comprehensive VG20 review written in English, though.

Good luck,

Bill

 

[David W. Jones]

You have no interest in the sound aspect of the cameras because you are shooting narrative films only?

So are you shooting silent movies?

In my book sound is half of a movie... But I'm a little old fashion that way.

 

[Samuel H]

eoshd made a very harsh 5n vs vg20 comparison: http://www.eoshd.com/content/3898/sony-nex-5n-versus-fs100-and-nex-vg20-hands-on-comparison - also, I've read some negative comments about noise in video mode with the new 24mpix sony sensor, which makes me think the 5n may be the best of the bunch for video (but I'm in "wait and see" mode and will definitely buy no camera before 2012)

 

[Samuel H]

@David W. Jones: I think he means he's going to use an H4n or similar anyway, so he doesn't care for in-camera audio

 

[AlexMacP]

Norman is correct.

For what I do, I just need video that I can score to music in post. I am attracted to the 60p of the Sony cameras. I have a buddy with an FS100 and the 60p is gorgeous.

I am still on the fence... but now that the VG20 is in stock at B&H , it is becoming hard to resist.

 

[daveswan]

Amazon have it in stock (Supposedly)

For £2000

With a lens I neither want nor need

I could get a 5DII body for £1650 or so and use my Leica primes (A damn sight better than any Sony rubbish)

I think I'll pass.

Dave