OT: Best Camera Under $2000

Jameson_Prod wrote on 4/16/2005, 12:36 PM
Let me preface this with two comments....I have searched but not found what I am looking for here in the forums. I am an audio guy first and video second. Although as of late, more request for my video work than my audio hence this post.

I am looking to move up to a better camera. With little experience with upper level cameras, I am not sure what is the best way to go. I would consider myself an entry level professional who wants to do as professional job as I can. I'm not interested in a lot of bells and whistles, just the best picture I can afford and ease of use. I'll list a few of the things I'd like but I am sure in the "bigger" picture they are not what you professionals would base a camera selection on. Price will probably be the biggest factor. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Specific models would be a great help.

-"professional" looking
-preferable 3 CCD
-a good standard shipped lens
-Large enough camera to be shoulder mounted
-XLR inputs or atleast some type of adapter that will allow XLR cable use

Thanks in advance.

Comments

Jay Gladwell wrote on 4/16/2005, 4:27 PM

I'm not aware of a "good" $2,000 camera with 3 chips that will is large enough to be shoulder mounted. You might consider the Canon GL2 and something like this.


Grazie wrote on 4/16/2005, 5:15 PM
I've got 2 of the PAL GL2s. The price allowed me some major "accessory-budget" headroom. The 20x optical zoom has proved invaluable for framing distant objects. I now film nearly entirly on a tripod. If I had a GlideCam type thing I would be nade up!

. .. and yes Jay, I'm back on!

Grazie
Jay Gladwell wrote on 4/16/2005, 5:17 PM

Glad you're back, Grazie!


Jameson_Prod wrote on 4/16/2005, 7:25 PM
I had looked at the GL2 and also a couple of the Panasonics...just wasn't sure what was the best way to go.

Thanks for your time.
GregFlowers wrote on 4/17/2005, 9:04 AM
You may want to consider looking for something used. With the release of the FX1/Z1, prices on most good used 1/3" chip cameras are falling. You could get a used PD150/170 for around $2000. Or you could get a VX2000/2100 (add $150 XLR adapter) for around $1500. Any of those would be very good in regular or low light, depending on what kind of video you are doing. Since I puchased my FX1, I (shameless plug) have a like-new VX2000, wide angled lens, and 12 filters for sale for $1650. You might could find a new VX2100 close to $2000 if you looked hard enough. If you are going to be shooting in low light situations, you may want to avoid the 1/4"chippers. If you have adequate light 1/4" chippers should do just fine. Here is a link to some decent XLR adaptors: http://www.studio1productions.com/xlr-menu.htm
Jameson_Prod wrote on 4/17/2005, 7:14 PM
Thanks Greg...I had taken a look at those adaptors before. I appreciate all the info.

Looks like this is what I have to choose from:

Sony VX2100, PD-170
Canon GL2
Panasonic AG-DVC30, AG-DVC60 , AG-DVX100A.

All close to $2000 new and seem to be similar. Suggestions?

And again, thanks for all the help.
jimmyz wrote on 4/17/2005, 7:45 PM
sony dcr pdx-10

Doesn't fit on your shoulder but has xlr and anamorphic widescreen
also dvcam but smaller ccd's
just bought for 1599. at b&hphoto (with a Sony rebate )
Laurence wrote on 4/17/2005, 8:56 PM
I love everything about the PDX-10 except it's small CCDs. I do run and gun stuff exclusively and I need every stop of light sensitivity I can get. Its one of very few cameras that can do a proper widescreen.