• Panasonic Cameras

  Which PANSONIC DV camcorder works best as deck?

  Posted by Sudbury on May 27, 2005 at 3:26 pm

  Hey everyone and anyone who wants to help a newbie to the DV world:
  I just received my DVX 100A, and clearly understand purchasing an additional, cheaper DV camcorder is the smart move for playback and transfer functions.
  More so, I’ve read all the posts on this topic (which inexpensive camcorder is the best option), but there still remains conflicting issues on all models.
  So I’ll not waste your time, but refine exactly what info I seek, if anyone knows definitively, keeping in mind I want to stick with PANASONIC models. [RELEVANT SYSTEM INFO–filming with DVX 100A, transferring to and editing with a new MAC with Final Cut Pro 4]:
  1.) Which of these models efficiently and safely transfers video to (with no
  timecoding problems!!) and can be used with FCP 4:
  A.) Panasonic PV-GS19 (some have said timecoding problems
  persist)
  B.) Panasonic PV-GS31
  C.) Panasonic PV-GS2

  thanks anyone and everyone for the help,
  Sudbury

  Michael replied 21 years, 3 months ago 3 Members · 2 Replies
• 2 Replies

• 

  Ryan

  May 28, 2005 at 3:43 am

  I would just use the camera as a deck for the time being and once you have saved up some coin by a deck.

  I have the DVX100, bought the week it came out, and use it as a deck as well and have not had any issues with it.

  I use the same kind of tape and never have any issues.

  But like I said, if it is a concern, do some jobs to pay for it and by a deck.
• 

  Michael

  June 10, 2005 at 5:54 am

  Tips:

  You should NOT use a camcorder as a deck. Camcorder heads are made of a softer material and don’t withstand the shuttle/searching that PB/REC decks are designed to handle. The movements are much more fragile, too. If you continuously use a camcorder as a deck you will need to service it a lot. The best deal going is the DSR-11. You can pick one up on eBay for the price of a mid-level camera.

  Make sure you’re using Panasonic Master Tape in the camera (it’s a white box with silver or gold banners and blue print). Don’t use Sony tape. They are made of different compounds. I get them mixed up, but one uses a wet base, the other dry. Putting one in the other is not good.

  You’ve got a great camera, don’t gunk it up with cheap tape. Definitely avoid consumer tape in that camera. Don’t go into Walgreen’s and pick up any old DV tape. You’ve got a high-end camera and should treat it as such.

  -mjd

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