I have $10,000! What should I do with it?

[Malcolm Desoto]

Hey thanks bill.

Yeah, that did help. I get what you’re saying. I had read that before. Thanks again.

[Malcolm Desoto]

Okay, so why does it say,

“Uncompressed 1080/60i 4:2:2 HD-SDI output at 1.485 Gbps”

So even though it says “uncompressed” when you capture it, the footage is being processed through a long GOP codec and then frame accurate frame editing is generated within the program? Sorry for the run-on sentence and my ignorance on the technical aspects of various frame rates. I am researching all this, believe me.

[Malcolm Desoto]

Oh, and the XLH1 appears to record with a 4:2:2 compression as well as the Panasonic HVX-200. So is there a difference there? In addition to this, the XLh1 also has interchangeable lenses. So, in light of all that; would you still go with the Panasonic?

“The secret to creativity is knowing how to hide your sources.” –Albert Einstein

[Jan Crittenden livingston]

Hi,

The Canon camera records HDV and thus the recording is 4:2:0 in a long GOP stucture. The only place on the camera where you will see an uncompressed output is at the HD-SDI. This signal does not go to tape, it is an output for say monitoring or sending to an external recording device.

The only small HD camera that can record a full 4:2:2 signal with independent frames is the HVX200 from Panasonic.

Hope this helps,

Jan

Jan Crittenden Livingston
Product Manager, DVCPRO, DVCPRO50, AG-DVX100
Panasonic Broadcast & TV Systems

[Bill Marcellus]

Malcolm,

Like Jan said, the Canon records in the HDV format which has 4:2:0 colorspace. Period. The 4:2:2 output is ONLY through the SDI connection and is not recorded to tape.

Additionally, HDV is a “prosumer” format, DVCPROHD is a professional format. If your intent is to create programming for broadcast you may find it difficult to sell HDV material to the networks. You will also have much better results in compositing and VFX with the Panny.

It seems you really like the Canon based on your experience with the XL. I understand. I purchased one of the first XL-1s in my area and loved it in 1997. That is, until the DVX-100 came out…that was the end of the XL-1 for me.

Again, I would emphasize that you should shoot some test footage with both cameras, play with them in post and determine which one you think provides the best image.

Bill

[Malcolm Desoto]

Bill and Jan, thank you very much. I get it now. Although I do like some features of the XL H1, the picture is ultimately the most important factor. So, I guess I’ll be taking a closer look at Pany HVX200. I’ll try to get my hands on both of these cameras and play around with them. Once again, thank you very much for your consistent replies.