Moving on from DV? What next?

[ron spencer]

I have been happily using my Panasonic 3 CCD camcorder for some time now...however, on my 50" plasma, it is just not looking as good as I would like. It is ok on smaller sets, but I am looking for more. I am thinking of going the HD route, despite the AVCHD issues still out there (who knows, maybe I will stick with DV cause I like EditStudio so much).

So:

1. What AVCHD camcoders can be recommended....or maybe the good old canon HDV ones are better? I am interested in quality, so the new Canon (HF-S11) or JVC one from Japan (GZ-HM400) look good. Another recommendations would be helpful.

2. What are people editing with now?


For those who have made the jump, please feel free to advise.

thanks!!!

[edDV]

I have been happily using my Panasonic 3 CCD camcorder for some time now...however, on my 50" plasma, it is just not looking as good as I would like. It is ok on smaller sets, but I am looking for more. I am thinking of going the HD route, despite the AVCHD issues still out there (who knows, maybe I will stick with DV cause I like EditStudio so much).

So:

1. What AVCHD camcoders can be recommended....or maybe the good old canon HDV ones are better? I am interested in quality, so the new Canon (HF-S11) or JVC one from Japan (GZ-HM400) look good. Another recommendations would be helpful.

2. What are people editing with now?


For those who have made the jump, please feel free to advise.

thanks!!!

A camcorder is a "cam" + "corder". Most of the first generation picture quality issues relate to the "cam" section. The reason HD camcorder prices range from ~$800 to $80,000 mostly relates to the "cam" section.

The HD format "corder" issues are addressed here. You will need to weigh the pro/con issues of getting picture quality to the final print. Process loss issues can be considerable.
https://forum.videohelp.com/topic370625.html?

The decision tree at the sub $2000 price point becomes first HDV vs. AVCHD. For HDV the standout model is the Canon HV40. For AVCHD see the latest reviews at www.camcorderinfo.com.

As for editors, HDV has wide support. AVCHD really needs conversion to Cineform Neoscene if you intend to hold quality through serious editing. Check the Cineform web site for editor compatibility.
http://www.cineform.com/neoscene/features.php

[diegolaz]

I'm exactly in the same situation. Have a panasonic GS 250 (mini dv) and I'm looking to move to HD and was reviewing those two camcorders at camcorderinfo.... so if you reached any conclusion I would apriciated.
They look very similar in quality so up to know I prefer the JVC GZ-HM400 since it's $999 vs >$1200

I'm not sure if its better to wait for better editor compatibility although I currently just do very small editing.

Someone did the jump recently with any of this cameras?

[pepegot1]

Have fun, because this technology is in its infancy with all the problems that entails. Long hours, costly and then you convert to DVD because how many HD players are there out there. I am sticking with my 3 CCD until this becomes a sain atmosphere and that's not tomorrow.

[ron spencer]

actually I have given up for now....so many friends, neighbours, co-workers totally miffed at how un user friendly high def avchd camcoders are...I am going to stick with DV for now...most camcorders out there are just crap, No viewfinders, etc. Will keep an eye out though.

[pepegot1]

A wise choice. You can google for a Panny GS500 or GS320, and be better off. A good upconverting DVD player should help on the big screen. The newer Canon mindv is another option, but I heard you may need an external mic, as the one on board is not so hot.

[ron spencer]

It is really funny....I am still making some great DVDs (DVDLab) from my 3CCD Panny....alot now with the AVCHD thing just "can't be bothered"

I was always hoping for a flash or hard drive based DV camcorder...that would be cool

I may try an HDV camcorder....


With busy kids, I just do not have the time to mess with AVCHD, DV is so easy and you can do anything with it.

But as I said.....always keep your eyes open

[j.man]

I've been considering Sony's XDCAM with Flash-cards for storage such as the PMW-EX1 or PMW-EX3 which I've used without worries. I'm going to wait at least a while until the prices of the Flash-cards come down, since one costs about 700€ and stores 1.5 hours and since I don't have a laptop where I can dump the footage once every 1.5 hours.

[MJA]

I think HDV is the best for now.never trust hard drive to store priceless me.memories

look for a new/refurb hv20/30 ,or 40