Used DVX100A ($2k) or New DVX100B ($3.4k)?

C

CineAlta

Well-known member
Hello,

I am interested in buying a DVX100-series camera, for independent filmmaking, to use for at least the next 3 yrs (until I can afford to jump to HD).

I am considering buying a used DVX100A for $2,000, from a rental house (not low head usage). But it's in good condition (the picture is good, lens is not scratched etc). It is from an authorized reseller and comes with a full manufacturer's warranty.

Or I am considering buying a new DVX100B for $3,400.

Please advise me on which would be the better option. If both cameras were new, then I would just read the threads on the 100A vs 100B for x amount of money. But, in my scenario, the 100A is used at that price (and has been a rental, not used in a studio). Is a new B worth $1,400 more than a used A?

Thank you very much for your advice! I am currently using a GS400 and am looking to move up!
 
BennisHahn said:
I would go with the 100A and then use the extra $$$ for goodies such as audio equip, lighting, good tripod, etc...
Click to expand...

I couldn't agree more. The extra $1400 will go a long way toward getting everything you need to actually start shooting.
 
I know there is a big money difference. You mention there are already a lot of hours on the lesser priced camera yet have plans to use this camera for three years.

With that in mind...I'd say buy the newer camera. Yeah, you could get some other stuff with the price difference cash but...your camera is the keystone.

If your budget is really tight, go ahead and buy the higher hour, lower priced camera but don't kid yourself about getting three years of use out of it without spending more money for repairs/maintenance.

Go into this with your eyes open and focus on the long term goals of this purchase. Lots of us have made the mistake of being penny wise and pound foolish. There is a reason they are selling that camera for only a couple of grand!

Just my thoughts. :beer:
 
When you say to use the extra money to purchase goodies such as lights, ect. What would you suggest as the type of light to purchase that would mount on the camera, and what extra lighting package would you suggest for purchase as additional lighting.

I have a AG-100A and love it. It is not great in low light situations and for this reason, I need a light to mount on the camera. Wouldn't mind something that had a waist battery pack and, of course, price is a factor. Thanks.
 
Very. Reseller Ratings only has one review for them, and it ain't good. Another quick clue... They're located in Brooklyn, NY. Stick with a well known and trusted shop like EVS or B&H. A little more expensive, but you know they're in it for the long run.
 
Get it all used.

If you are only going to be making small independant films for 3 years, then get good equipment.

I ordered a bogen (503 head)tripod with dolly combo, for about 700$ here locally in Indiana. I know i'm going to use this tripod untill my camera outweighs it, or untill it falls apart.

Invest in production equipment now, because cameras come and go. Tripods and lights are alot more future proof.
 
In March, I am getting back several 100A's from a rental. You can contact me then if you like.
 
I would personally go with the 100B. The new features and improvement, however minor or insignificant they may seem, are worth it for me. But generaly, for my business, I don't like buying certain type of equipment used, even from reputable sources, as I can't afford to have something go wrong at a critical shoot. Of course if the hours meter is REALLY low, then that's another issue.

On the other hand, if it's for the occasional shoot and familly events, I'd go with the price conscious decision of the 100A.
 
I' ve got an original 100 with less then 50 hours on it I'm going to sell.
Used it to take video mostly of kids b-days and an occational weddings.
 
The rental DVX-100A, has 350 hours on the heads (apparently it was used as a playback deck, as well). I'm not sure if this is a lot, or what the normal lifespan of the heads are? If anyone could comment on the number of hours, I'd appreciate it. Thanks!
 
:thumbsup: Very normal. I've seen many with over 1000 hours. Die hard little cameras.
 
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