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we are going to switch from our sd camcorders to hd and would like some help on picking a new hd camcorder. In particular, what do fellow cassie users think about tape or going with hard drive or cards for a camcorder and what format is easier to edit in a s4000?
thanks,
john

I hear, feel and share your pain... seems like every year technology forces us to spend more money then we have or get left behind. Understand, like 80% of the used-to-be-middle-class and now known as the working-class-poor; I am not rich. I am still working in DVcam (still have and use DSR 300, DSR150 & a PD100a with a DSR30 deck from 1999) on a S4000Pro.

I looked at Sony HXR-NX5U NXCAM, then a Sony PMW-EX1R XDCAM EX. Then I looked at a Sony PMW-EX3 XDCAM EX. And finally a Sony PMW-F3K Super 35mm Full-HD. Can't spend that much and still have a wife tomorrow...

LOL a few weeks ago someone was commenting, (on this very cassie forum) about the future of cams and the AG-3DA1.

On several other forums I am associated with, fellow movie-makers are talking mad & crazy stuff about those 5D Canon Mark II cameras -- for shooting 1080P video. Huh? Then I picked up a book by Kurt Lancaster called DSLR Cinema. After seeing some really impressive footage created with the 5D and not having more than a couple thousand available, I think the DSLR may be my next camera. For shooting movies.

There are a lot of great cameras out there. Just thinking about how much cash I have spent to date -- Ha ha ha (no use crying over spilt milk or spen dollars). I wish I had sold my current cameras back in 2002 when they still had major value. But a 5D ? It will always take digital stills...

My two cents...

For the money and for a nice change in you footage
I recommend the CANON 60D, we have 2 and is a
great DSLR camera....

ps-Remember to invest in good lenses, we mix with
Sigma and Canon..

I just looked up and read about the Canon 60D (999.99) @ 18.0 megapixel... It runs about 2/5 the price of the 5D ($2,699.00) @ 21.1 megapixel. Is there any difference in quality of footage shot on the different cameras? I have read about how there is so much of a different look & feel between the 5D and the 7D Canons. Also are the same lenses usable on both Canon 60D and 5D (as they are with the 5D and 7D) ? The 60D has a 18MP CMOS while the 5D is a full frame CMOS -- so I wonder... what is your take?

If I am going to spend $$$, I would like to be rolling as good as possible (for at least a few years)...

Outstanding quality with the 5D and 7D. There are drawbacks as it relates to camera controls and handling which can be overcome. I GUESS a good steady rig would help stabilize the camera.

The video people in my association have to 'run' several HDSLR cameras during a special event. There seems to be a 12 minute cut-off where the camera shuts off. Also, zooming is difficult "on the fly."

My personal opinion is that I like the lowlight capability and the shalllow DOF, but not in every shot. Personally, I am waiting for the introduction of 4/3 REAL video cameras that have the proper FAST lens. This should be very soon once the mess in Japan is over.

My only reservations for current HDSLR's are the amount of proper lenses that have to be purchased. There is still an investment beyond the stock lens.

Lastly............... Seems Hollywod is getting back to a flatter DOF or mixing both, especially with 3-D.

BTW: I just hope this shallow DOF is not a fad that in a few years clients will say "THIS IS SO 2011."