Which Version of the DVX 100 Series Should I Get?

O

Okana

New member
Hello everyone, I've been doing a lot of research lately about digital video cameras and have pleasantly stumbled upon the DVX 100. I'm sure this is the right camera for me, just because you can get them for so cheap (fits right into my budget) these days, and the fact that the camera is still quality even being considered outdated technologically, is great. My only question is which version should I get? It seems that they are all listed around the same price on eBay, but is there really much of a difference between the A and B versions for instance? Thanks.
 
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I'm sure there are posts in the archive about all the differences between the A and B models, but here are a few:
A has time lapse feature (records X frames every X seconds). A has a better LCD screen display. If you shoot "squeeze" mode, the A does not un squeeze it in the viewfinder or LCD...the B does.

The B is supposed to have a "beefed up" tape transport, but loses the time lapse feature to implement it. I've never had a problem with the A transport.
B shows the correct aspect ratio in the viewfinder if you shoot squeeze mode. B is supposed to have a bit less noise. I haven't seen this in the stuff I've done using both models together on shoots.

I have an A, and immediately noticed the lower quality LCD display on the B. However, in bright daylight, both LCDs are pretty useless, even with a hood. As an old film guy, I prefer the viewfinder anyway. I'm hangin' on to my 100A, because I could never get what she's worth in the current market.

You should be OK with either one (if it has low hours and has been well cared for), but I'd try and find one locally so that you could test it "hands on".
Hope this helps.
Ken
 
Find a low hour B
B is newer and will less likely have parts ready to break.
I heard A has a design/parts issue with the lens, if I recall correctly.
 
The A and B have the same lens assembly. Having owned my current 100A for over 6 years now, I,m thinking your recollection might not be correct. If your lens servo and back focus are ok when you get it, it's likely that they will stay that way for some time. Only last year did I take mine in for "software alignment/cleaning" because I noticed a slight back focus issue on a test shoot, and electronics can, indeed, drift out of alignment over time.
That $200+ for peace of mind after almost 7 years ain't too bad for a professional tool. :)
Ken
 
I had the A and currently have the B. The B is better to me because it has less noise and the LCD displays the correct aspect ratio when shooting in squeeze mode.
 
I've been shooting with the A for 8 years and love it. I'm not replacing it anytime soon. Rock solid and reliable.
 
The B is slightly better then the A which is much better then the original. All are good. Depending on your budget it might be a good idea to look for a used HVX-200. It can record to tape just like the DVX but if you want to step it up to HD you have that option, with P2 cards or external recorder. The HVX is slightly less sensitive in low light than the DVX and a bit heavier but all around it is a better camera. I sold my DVX100A 3 years ago for $500 with 3 batteries and a $300 hard case. You will not find that kind of deal for a HVX but there are some good deal to be had.
 
As the product manager, get the B version, it is the best DVX out there. I has tons of little improvements made on it including all of the ones that made the DVX100A great. Between the A and B version, I think there are 42 improvements over the A. So if they are all around the same price, then the B version. However, I might just side with the guy that suggested the HVX200. You can use it just like a DVX with tape until you are ready for that HD transition. The menus are very similar to the DVX but the one main advantage is that it is a native 16:9 chip set.

Good Luck,

Jan
 
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