Need a camera under 1,5k

[mod68]

I need your help to decide wich camera to buy. Most I´m looking for good quality images and filmlook like more or less. I will use it for shorts and low budget music videos. I can´t spend more than $1,400. The cameras are: PV-GS400 or AG-DVC30 or DCR-VX2100. Because of my location I have to buy it by internet and I do not have a chance to try any of them. I need to know wich one will work better for me for this low price. Thanks

 

[Digigenic]

Hey Mod, welcome to the forums.

Out of the three cameras you mentioned, the Panasonic AG-DVC30, and Sony VX2100 are the more capable out of the bunch.
I would first point you into the direction of the AG-DVC30, primarily for its film like characteristics.
Then, I would direct to the DCR-VX2100 for every other reason.
They are both strong cameras in their own right, and both deserve your consideration.

First, the AG-DVC30, if you want a film look, you should consider this camera first, as it has the same cinegamma control settings that are employed within its infamous older brother, the DVX100.
The frame rate of the DVC30 is arguably cinematic, as it simulates a 30P frame rate, but not 24.
It also features a 16x Leica lens, Leica makes phenomenal optics.
It also features a host of accessories, particularly for manual audio XLR input/control.

Okay, now for the coveted VX2100. The biggest argument that can be made against this camera is the fact that it does not have a cinematic frame rate; it shoots 15 frames progressive--kinda weird. I'm not sure if the PAL version is 25P or not...you might want to look into that.
The VX2100's strongest points are of course, the low light capability, 1 lux, nobody in the 1500 to 4000 range can touch that. Also, they have a 12x Zeiss T* lens, not much zoom power, but Zeiss makes phenomenal optics. Also, there are a ton of accessories available for the VX model.
Now, something else that can be of some significance is the fact that the VX series is established with a lifeline spanning back into the mid/late 90's (VX1000)...it's tried and true...along with the Canon XL series, it’s one of the single most reliable models on the market.

So, if you want film like images out of the box, the DVC30 is where it's at.
But if you have the capabilities in post, you can definitely achieve a film like image with the VX.

By the way, who are you purchasing your camera from?

Also, NAB will be next month, if you’re able to hold off on your purchase, you might want to wait and see what’s announced there.

Happy Hunting

 

[mod68]

Thanks Digigenic,
I'm very grateful for your information.
Now, I`m living in Dominican Republic and I don´t know if I could make the trip to visit de NAB. I will watch for it. I was planning to buy the camera from bestchoicedigital

Thaks again for your information.

 

[Lazlo]

I own the AG-DVC30, and am very pleased with the results. I would highly recommend it. The VX2100 is bulky in size, large, and is definetely over 1400 dollars last time I checked. I think its more in the 2400 dollar range because of its special unmatched low light capabilities and its 1/3 inch CCD's. I love my DVC30 for a lot of reasons. Firstly, its size and balance make it very easy to handle, and carry just about anywhere (without muscles). Also, its 1/4 inch CCD's hold up very well under low light. The DVC30 actually has HIGHER resolution as I look at the specs. Even though the CCD's are smaller (which make it less successful in low light), it has 380,000 effective pixels with a maximum of 410,000, where as the max for the VX is only 380,000. You're not talking about a big difference, but since the VX costs about 600$ more than the VX, why not go lower. Another thing I love is how everything is MANUAL. I can control everything, and when it comes to my camera, I am a control freak. Its very professional. On the low end, some of the buttons are placed in akward positions, and the handle is sort of awkward as well (but at least it has a handle!). Its an awesome camera. Any questions, ask me. Highly recommended.