Saw the new 2/3′ XDCAM HD in the flesh.

[Nigel Cooper]

With regard to new 2/3rd XDCAM HD having variable frame rate.

I think Sony are going to launch it and wait 3 months to see what affect it has on HDCAM sales. If the new 2/3rd XDCAM HD camera does not affect HDCAM sales Sony will put in variable frame rate to the XDCAM HD via a firmware update. If on the other hand the new 2/3rd XD does affect HDCAM sales i.e. HDCAM sales take a nose dive, then Sony will not put in variable via firmware, but instead they will launch another flagship 2/3rd XDCAM HD camera with every bell and whistle going, but for a further

[Steve Wargo]

Well said Nigel. The RED will not be a freelancer’s camera. When it is released in 2009, there may be a stampede or maybe not. I know of several people who have asked for a refund on their deposits.

It might be like the iPhone. Some slept on the sidewalk for days waiting in line. People who waited till the next day were in and out of the AT&T store in about 15 minutes.

So what and who cares?

Steve Wargo
Tempe, Arizona
It’s a dry heat!

Sony HDCAM F-900 & HDW-2000/1 deck
5 Final Cut Pro systems
Sony HVR-M25 HDV deck