PMW-200 or (2) EX1’s?

[Michael Johnston]

I don’t get this question. If the EX1’s are sitting and never used, why buy a PMW200? The 200 does not shoot like a FS700 or 5D. If you’re not using an EX1 you won’t be using a 200 so I say sell the EX1’s and forget about a 200.

[Dan Hyman]

Thanks Michael.

The reason I like an attached lens, 1/2″ cam is because for real run and gun, event coverage or on the spot shooting, the EX1’s (200) are better options. No fiddling with different lens and a rocker control that works (right now the one on the FS700 is disabled).

I guess it brings me to another tech question. The FS700 shoots an amazing picture at 24mbs, but the 200 shoots 50mbs… I can’t help but wonder about the color and clarity comparison. I know the sensors are different but the EX1 quality is still superb.

I think I’m going to sell the EX1’s, get one 200 and a lens. Sorry for thinking out loud.

Anyone interested in a pair of EX1’s with the latest firmware updates and both with Juice Design base plates?

thanks
Dan

[Michael Slowe]

You fellows are talking all around a very interesting question indeed. I too love my EX 1, shot three docs on it, brilliant pics, does all I want. BUT, I could do with less DOF on occasions. I don’t want to go to the EX 3 and have to change lenses, I’m often shooting under pressure and taking care of all the other stuff such as audio and direction.

My question is, how does this new 200 compare with the EX 1, the publicity doesn’t make it clear? Same chip size so presumably similar performance. What about focal length, is there a longer tele, wider aperture? I know about the 50mbps, that’s good but we have 35 with the EX, there can’t be all that much improvement. Is the 50mbps VBR or constant? The EX’s are VBR I think so you don’t really know what you’re getting at any one time anyway.

Also, the focus arrangements with the EX are great, quick pull or push if you have to go to auto for a minute, great focus and aperture rings, just like a proper camera. Is the 200 with S x S cards?

Any info would be great if you have time. I too don’t understand why the EX 1’s are not being used, are you going up market?

Michael Slowe

[Michael Johnston]

Biggest difference is EX1 is a fixed lens where the 200 has an interchangeable lens. The EX3 has been the production choice for this reason. In the end, all Sony did was take the most popular features of the EX1 and NX5U, added an interchangeable lens, more menu options, and added the option of recording in the EX1’s 35Mbs 4:2:0 or 50Mbs 4:2:2 for higher end productions where there is a lot of post work and color grading. If you don’t do extensive post production grading then you won’t see a visual difference between the 200 and EX1. All it really comes down to is do you want to spend the money for, essentially, an upgraded EX1 just to say you have the cool new camera. Oh, by the way, I use an EX1, EX3, and NX5U and there is no difference in DoF between the EX1 and EX3 but I CAN getting a shallower DoF with the NX5. Just keep that in mind. The EX1/3 and NX5 are so much different from a FS700 or 5D in terms of image captured that they are not even comparable.

[Michael Palmer]

From what I’m reading the PMW-200 has a fixed lens
https://pro.sony.com/bbsc/ssr/product-PMW200/

Good Luck
Michael Palmer

[Michael Johnston]

My mistake. You are correct, it is the same fixed lens as on the EX1. Another reason why it’s a waste of money to buy if you already have an EX1.

[Michael Palmer]

No I would NOT trade 2-EX1’s for the 200. If I’m purchasing a 3-chip camera the senor size is what I’m most concerned with and both of these cameras use the exact same sensor. If you really want 4:2:2 then get an external recorder like the Nano Flash.

Good Luck
Michael Palmer

[Dan Hyman]

Hi Michael,

Good points all around. To answer your question, the FS700 has been heavy use since we got it. I used
to use the EX1 for everything, with a 2nd as a backup, and also for 2 person interviews (rare). When I wanted to use my Canon L’s, I got the Letus Extreme. Clunky, but worked well. So I got the Mark II, then traded up for the Mark III. Different animal, amazing image, but challenging for event coverage with lenses and audio (Hn4, etc)

Now when I have event coverage work, I’m torn and need to use what I’m most comfortable with. The EX1 (200) structure is much easier for on-the-go shooting.

If you or anyone has any info, sample footage, etc on the EX1 vs 200 comparison, I would love to see it.

I just don’t like the idea of having (2) EX1’s sitting there. They are amazing cameras and I know someone could put them to good use. IF I did need a run and gun camera, I’m thinking replacing the 2 with a 200 would be a decent move..

[Ashraf Helmi]

Hey Dan Im in the market for an ex1 right now, how much would you sell one for?
Ash

[Dan Hyman]

How about $4500.. I have them selling as a pair for $9299