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New Camera
I have been in the event video biz for over 15 years. I currently use two Sony DCR-VX2100 and a DSR-300.
It’s time for new cameras. Here is what I want:
Light weight
Good in low light
All the standard features of a camcorder (versus a DSLR)
Around $3k
No rolling shutter
Decent HD image (does not need to be the very best/sharpest – my work is about storytelling)As I research this there seems to be just one choice: HMC-150.
Am I missing any other possibilities?
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5 Replies
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Given your list of requirements, I agree that the HMC-150 is about it. Not many CCD cameras on the market right now.
BTW, I’ve owned a HMC-150 for almost 2 years now and I absolutely love it. Great camera. The built-in mic is horrible, so you might want to add an AT875 short shotgun ( $200 ) as a good on-camera mic for ENG style shooting.
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Or even go HMC40 and spend the savings on audio gear…
Noah
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Mickey
The HMC 150 is in your price range. Don’t overlook the HPX-170 ($500-1000 more). You will not find an HD camera that performs well in low light. You are going to need a decent light. The DSR-300 was and still is exceptional in low light. It also has a 1/2″ sensor compared to a 1/3″.
I made the HD switch 3 years ago. I decided to invest in the HPX-500 and HPX-170 from the DSR-300 and DSR-170.
Steve Eisen
Eisen Video Productions
Vice President
Chicago Final Cut Pro Users Group -
I love my HMC-40, but if he’s dead-set against CMOS sensors (eg, rolling shutter potential), that’s not the camera for him. The HMC-40 does everything else he’s after, and even with the XLR module, still below $2000. That leaves money to buy a decent mic… I’ve got the Rode NTG-1 on mine, and it’s a great match.
The HMC-150 doesn’t suck either.. that’ll get you the CCDs rather than CMOS sensors, more weight, but with it more buttons, less need to navigate menus. And more low light capability.
-Dave
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I’ve got the 150, and it’s ok in low light, but my 7d is now what I take for very low light situations. Maybe get two 150s and one 7d? But if u routinely use a camera mounted light, then the 150 is fine.
Alf
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