Sticking with the DV workflow is probably a good idea and I'm sure the XL2 will work great. Especially since you are going to DVD standard def for playback. That having been said...

If you get a chance to see HDV from the sony on a nice HD monitor you might have a problem settling for anything less. ...

As an XL2 owner/user, I will second what Muttley said. Too, with the XL2 you won't have any need to record to DAT.

Yes, HD is wonderful, but unless you have all the necessary kit for HD posting and HD presentation, it's a moot point, isn't it?

Wow..I'm really surprised that no one supported the HDV.....I guess I'll start really looking into that XL2.

Make no mistake about it, HD is great. And I'll go on record right now saying that as soon as the XL goes HD, I'm there. The problem from where I'm sitting is that I'm not willing to give up the options I have with the XL2 just so that I can shoot HD. The cameras just aren't that attractive to me at this stage in large part due to the fact that there are limited means of distribution for the format. I'd be pretty bummed out using another cam that I'm not in love with on many of the projects that I do that don't require HD. I personally don't know one single person that has and HD DVD player.

- Ray

www.undergroundplanet.com

On one hand, I'm still shooting with my (beloved) PD170.

But NO WAY would I buy a SD camera. It's going to die a very fast death (one to two years) once HDV gets going.

Based on what you said - a movie with actors destined for the "big screen", I'd definitely go for the HDV camera. I'd also wait until after NAB. There's going to be an explosion of new gear (no I"m not privy to anything secret - it's just always the way) - and then within a few months, prices will drop.

I'd say you will take a huge value drop in your new XL very shortly.

This is all simply conjecture, but it's the way that I'd go.

best with that video - good luck!
v.

Xjerx, maybe you can rent or borrow the two cams and try them out under identical situations to see which one you like best.

And, just an aside to anyone who cares to answer, what's "open architecture" mean? I hate to sound ignorant, but I guess I am.

Though I've never used one, I've always been enamored of the XL's features and expandability, but $$$ was an issue so I went for a GL1. I've been pretty happy with it EXCEPT that the head(s) got out of alignment after only 2 years and it cost me $400 to have it put right by Canon. I've had a different problem with a ZR60 I use as a deck and knockaround camera---it keeps frying the batteries. Overcharging them, I guess---I dunno.

So, after two separate problems with Canon cameras, I've really been thinking of switching brands next time. And with the HD explosion about to start, and no $$$ for another camera yet anyhow, I'll wait to see what shakes down.

But the idea of an HD XL(3?) might just make me take one more chance on Canon gear.

you might want to wait until after NAB. There are going to be other options out there as far as HDV/HD goes and the GY-HD100U will shoot 24p at 16:9 in either HD or SD. Also, like the XL2 it is going to have detachable lenses. And let snot forget the talk out of Pani land about the HD version of the DVX100. IMO, it would be good to get a camera that will give you both SD and HD/HDV. Truthfully it is the one thing that holds me back from either the DVX100 or the XL2.

Hello Z1 is good, I like the 510 specs but have not tried it as of this writting.
The 510 is more money, but please take a look.
The URL is: pro.sony.com
or Sony Business to Business.
Each state has a rep speciffically for the 510 -900 series and they are a pain to speak with.

As for the Canon save your money, look at the number of active scan lines compared to the Z1. Look at the number of chips on board.

The Canon is old hat for now and many remain unsold. Do not buy one on Amazon unless you buy directly from Amazon or J&R.
20 to 30 add each day for the Canon under $1000.00, they simply do NOT exist. You send your money to Russia and never even get a postcard.

Sony will sell you the Z1 for less than 5K, but Abe of Maine had it for 4800. and gives you some extra stuff. after purchace call Sony and buy the Service Plan from them, it is much better and you always have a huge company to gripe at.
best Wishes,
marty