SOS. questions about DVX's: future, bundle, cranes

S

slowdance

New member
I found this lovely place a few days ago and have become a lurking addict. I have learned so much from everyone’s chatter, so Thank You (Bill and Barry)!
Ok enough fodder.
The question:
I am considering updating my XL1 to the land of 24P. I realize we are at a plateau in this league of cameras, where it’s going and when is my question? Is there a huge dip ahead of us? If I buy a DVX now, will it be updated in half a year, because the upgrade to XL1s nearly killed me (momentarily). Same thing happened to me when ordering the last model of the G4 tower... few months later the G5, ooops!!!
So if i get this package:
Package #1 DVX CinePack
AG-DVX100 Cine DP Package
Complete $15,995.00
At http://saferseas.com/vsd/eye/eye13.html

Will I be in good hands for the next couple of years? I know the DVX100A is solid and anyone fortunate enough to afford one is truly blessed. But should I wait for HD 24P? Seeing Barry's DVX200 wish list made me foam at the mouth.

Anybody ever use this:
http://dvmoves.com/products/crane/index.cfm http://www.promax.com/Products/Detail/28034
or recommend a better crane?

THANKS!
 
Re: SOS. questions about DVX's: future, bundle, cr

Re: SOS. questions about DVX's: future, bundle, cr

You've asked the eternal question that nobody knows the answer to... will there be a new model, and if so, when?

It's almost a foregone conclusion that there will be a new model... heck, after three years even Canon updated the XL1s! So some day, yes, there will be a new model. But nobody can answer the pertinent question, which is "when"?

Some of the turmoil seems to center around everyone's feeling that there's an impending wave of HD that's going to come along and obliterate DV.

I look at it like I do with cars: yes, some day they may make hydrogen-powered cars, which are the ultimate eco-friendly vehicle, free us (somewhat) from dependence on foreign oil, and their pollution is pure water. Would that stop me from buying a gas-powered vehicle today? Not for a second. Gas will be with us for a long, long time, at least until they retrofit a large percentage of the gas stations to be able to supply hydrogen. That seems like many years away.

And so it is with DV... until there is a viable "critical mass" of HD delivery media (meaning high-def DVD's or some other technology) that's in enough homes to justify it, standard-def and DVD will be with us for years to come.

You're asking "will I be in good hands for the next couple of years?" Undoubtedly yes. Will you be in the latest-and-greatest hands for the next couple of years? Maybe not, maybe something newer will come along (like the Sony FX1) and maybe something newer AND BETTER will come along (haven't seen that yet though). But I still shoot film on my 30-year-old film camera, it works fine... and as long as there's a viable DVD market, standard-def 24P will be a perfectly viable acquisition tool.
 
Re: SOS. questions about DVX's: future, bundle, cr

Re: SOS. questions about DVX's: future, bundle, cr

I would price out all those toys separately and elsewhere to see if it's a genuine value. I have a skeptical nature to "all inclusive" packages but that's just me. :-/
 
Re: SOS. questions about DVX's: future, bundle, cr

Re: SOS. questions about DVX's: future, bundle, cr

[quote author=Dakotapod link=board=Links;num=1101877560;start=0#2 date=11/30/04 at 22:33:19]I would price out all those toys separately and elsewhere to see if it's a genuine value. I have a skeptical nature to "all inclusive" packages but that's just me.  :-/[/quote]
Sounds like a smart idea, especially when they don't list the price of each component. Also make sure you question how appropriate each component is. For example, do you really need a Bogen 510/515 and a 3198 dolly? Those are designed for much heavier cameras, even with all the bells and whistles on that DVX, it won't weigh near enough to require the 510 head. You can get a sweet lightweight Miller or Vinten for less money than just the head on that kit. The Zoe DVX has been updated with a cheaper better ZoeDVX-PZB. Where are the adapter rings that allow me to use the Century lenses with the Mattebox? Those are separate but not listed. Also, if I am gonna pay $16K for a kit, I want larger batteries than the 2800mAH. The MKH416 mic is too short to fit in the supplied MZSCAM shockmount, so that is a waste of a shockmount. You will need a Ktek KCAMSSM or other shorter shockmount like the AT8415 with KSUS suspenders. The EW500ENG Sennheiser has been updated with the G2 version, which has auto-scan, backlights, and more frequency selection. Why get old products for the same price? Also for $16K I want a Carbon fiber boompole. I will get one less filter so my under-paid sound guy isn't griping about the heavy aluminum pole all day. And 100 Sony Premium tapes? What ever happened to Panasonic MQ and wet/dry lube tape differences... If you have q's write me at rush@evsonline.com
 
Re: SOS. questions about DVX's: future, bundle, cr

Re: SOS. questions about DVX's: future, bundle, cr

[quote author=Rush link=board=Links;num=1101877560;start=0#3 date=12/01/04 at 00:01:35]Also make sure you question how appropriate each component is.[/quote]

Boo-ya! Tell it like it is, Rush!

Slowdance, pay close attention to the above post. The DVX Cinepack would seem like the ultimate MiniDV rig, but you have to look at the individual pieces that make up the package to determine its real value (or lack of). $16,000 is a lot of money... research is your friend. Of course, that's why you posted this question in the first place, so you're on the right track! ;)

As for what the future might bring... Well, when do you need the camera? I'm assuming it's for narrative film purposes, otherwise you wouldn't need the Cinepack's accessories. When will you be filming? If it's in January or February, get the DVX. But if it's not until Summer, there will always be better things on the horizon, so waiting until a month or so before shooting might get you the latest and greatest. (And yes, the DVX200 wish list has me drooling, too)

As far as cranes go, I've used the CobraCrane 1, and was extremely pleased with it.

Let us know what you end up getting!
 
Re: SOS. questions about DVX's: future, bundle, cr

Re: SOS. questions about DVX's: future, bundle, cr

Lest there be misinterpretation, I wasn't recommending that kit from safer seas, I know nothing about them but have heard mixed reviews. I was just saying that if someone was worrying if they'd be on solid ground if they chose the DVX, then my opinion was yes, definitely the DVX will be a solid production tool as long as DVD remains a viable distribution medium, which should be for several years at least.
 
Re: SOS. questions about DVX's: future, bundle, cr

Re: SOS. questions about DVX's: future, bundle, cr

I think that was clear to all, my friend. :) You are not one to be misunderstood; instead, you are always clear and concise with your words. You are the greatest, Barry! ;D
 
Re: SOS. questions about DVX's: future, bundle, cr

Re: SOS. questions about DVX's: future, bundle, cr

I totally thought you were recommending the package and ordered one :o

Kidding naturally - You were of coarse crystal clear. I was just commenting on the package and not your post. :)
 
Re: SOS. questions about DVX's: future, bundle, cr

Re: SOS. questions about DVX's: future, bundle, cr

Right back at ya, pal. Rush is a superb dealer -- the frequent praise he (and EVS) get are well deserved, I've spent thousands with EVS and couldn't be happier with the pricing and service they provide.

In all seriousness, before considering any questionable/iffy dealer, you should give Rush a call at EVS. You'll get top-notch service and one of the best prices around.
 
Re: SOS. questions about DVX's: future, bundle, cr

Re: SOS. questions about DVX's: future, bundle, cr

Sundance,

I recommend that if you want to save some money, you can have nearly the same kit above for far less. I’ve been building my CinemaDP kit from new and used gear and so far have some serious gear for well under the Safer Seas Price.

For example:
I bought the following items used:
* DVX100a with 8 months warranty, 4x4 MatteBox, 4x4 Filters, extra battery, and case for around 3000.
* Got the Panasonic Anamorphic Adapter for $600
* Got a Sennheiser MK-60 shotgun for $899
* 2x Oktava MC12 microphones wth hyper-cardoid for $200
* Lots of cheaper things like (Raincover for DVX, Hoodman, Reflector) quality used gear from ebay.

I purchased the following new:
* Bogen 525MVP with 503 head kit.
* 3 Britek Lights with softbox, stands and extra lamps.
* Shotgun Mic Zeppelin with handgrip and shockmount and boom.
* Kata-4 Lighting kit bag, and Porta Brace DV Organizer Case

I've spend less than $7000 for everything so far. You just have to keep an eye out for deals, specials, and know what products are out there. What is good and what is not.
 
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