Chris, you keep beating me to the punch damn it! :lol:
The
DVinfo and
DVXuser communities have some great threads on this and other HD/HDV models. Some articles on the JVC can be found
here
The reason I am directing you to those forums is because there's some great analysis provided, going into great depth and detail on the entire unit. From its physical characteristics, to the picture, and to the post production and distribution feasibility of the HD/HDV format.
One thing I can say, with primary focus on
distribution - by next summer there *might* be a couple HD DVD/Blu Ray player/recorder units on the market. However, these products will still be new, with no signs of universal acceptance. I direct you to the
HD DVD and Blu Ray battle. Even though your investment in an HD/HDV camera future proofs productions for the next few years, it doesn’t negate the fact that you will currently be distributing the final product in standard definition.
Now, with regard to your choice between HD/HDV cameras on the market. By the time you shoot next summer, you will have these four models to choose from.
They don’t necessarily fall into the same price parameters, but they do offer about the same ratio in bang for buck, you really do get what you pay for with these cams.
There is also a poll between these cameras on these forums featured
here.
Of course, there are a handful of other HDV cameras available on the market provided by Sony and JVC, and there will likely be even more by the time you make your decision, but these 4 in particular appear to be the front runners within this range. If you haven't already, I suggest you also do your research on these other models and see how they appeal to your needs in areas that the JVC might not.
If your producers decide to stick with the DVX100, perhaps you'll at least be able to persuade them into picking up the new DVX100b, this way you'll at least have a two camera set up. :wink:
