Should I Buy the HMC150 or not

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djkoz

Well-known member
I've been using the DVX100A for a few years and I am now ready to upgrade to HD. I do not want to stay with tape or use proprietary cards. Essentially, I am looking for the HD equivalent of the DVX100A, that records to SD/CF at a price of under $3,000.

My wish list is:
1. Records to SD or CF cards
2. XLR inputs
3. HD recording in various modes 24P, 30P, 60i (and maybe 60p, but I am not sure why)
4. Good performance in low light
5. Clear, sharp video
6. High Mbps (I am thinking about creating a documentary that I would like to promote to local TV stations, so I need something that will record as close to broadcast quality as I can afford, whatever that is.)
7. Has time code
8. Easily imported into Vegas NLE
9. Allows for tight close ups, maybe around 6-8 inches
10. 3 chip
11. Good zoom range
12. Easy to use, convenient controls
13. Great audio
14. Probably more

I've seen a few good reviews on the web, but no thorough reviews like those given on CamcorderInfo.com

Does this camera fit the bill? I've looked at Canon (FX100 - but it only has 1 chip) and JVC (HM150U - poor low light performance and inconvenient controls), but I can't quite find the perfect fit.

I'd appreciate hearing from those of you who have used the camera under various conditions. Do you like it? Should I avoid it?

Thanks,

Dan
 
The HMC150 is exactly what you're asking: an HD version of the DVX100 that records to SD cards.

The other one to consider would be the new AC130, it's a tad more expensive but produces sharper footage with substantially more zoom range.
 
The HMC150 fits the bill. 60p (at 720p) is VERY useful. To be honest I almost always film EVERYTHING at 60p, so that I can get beautiful slow motion footage anytime I want. 40% of 60fps is 24fps... Very easy.

The ONLY negative would be the 'soft' image quality, but this is generally not a severe issue unless you are out of focus. Use a good scene setting appropriate to your subject, manual focus (using focus assist) and go for it! I have several cams and I use my HMC all the time. When I upgrade I will be going the AC160 route...
 
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