OT: Is the A1 wortht the extra $$$ over HC-1?

p@mast3rs wrote on 12/31/2005, 12:20 PM

I am assuming more post work would be required for HC-1 footage than the A1 since the A1 seems to give more control than the HC1.

Any thoughts?

Comments

Spot|DSE wrote on 12/31/2005, 12:24 PM

A few things you can't do with the HC1 that are easily accomplished with the A1:
1. Black Stretch. For me...this is the main deal breaker, especially in lower light.
2. Gamma/Tone modes
3. Balanced audio/phantom power
4. Assignable button
5. Faster/smoother control of parameters due to assignable button and tone mode mixes.

Those are the main differences, there are others. We bought 2 of the A1's, and enjoy them very much.

p@mast3rs wrote on 12/31/2005, 12:27 PM

Thanks DSE. Is there much of a stretch between the FX1 and the A1? Kind of crossed off the HC1 for the time being unless money becomes a major concern.

Or should I wait with hope that Sony is releasing a new line anytime soon?

Quryous wrote on 1/3/2006, 8:23 PM

We can always hope, especially that they will fix the non-extendable viewfinder and bottom loader absurdities.

Spot|DSE wrote on 1/3/2006, 8:37 PM

I wouldn't expect anything in the professional HDV cams anytime soon, but what do I know. I'm basing my comment on the lifespan of their previous cameras in the same class.

The HC1 is a good cam, but like it's price point...it would be my last choice. I love the A1, and the bottom load "absurdity" is easily dealt with via a bottom loader offset. While it's not my favorite feature, it's also not at all a problem.