Am looking to buy for the first time a new camcorder. Will be shooting underwater mostly. Of the prefered cameras listed does anyone have any good advise? Money is not the issue. Video quality and ease of editing and transfer to dvd.
Thanks to all replys.

Hi surf...

The PDX has the best 16:9 mode of the three, the other two have the better dynamic range and light sensitivity, as well as better manual control. Do you think you might use the camera for anything other than diving? That might better inform you on your decision. Overall, I say that, unless you're hot for 16:9, either the VX or the 170 will serve you best, and if money truly isn't a problem, go with the 170 (for slightly more refined manual controls and better/more audio options).

Out of curiosity, have you considered also Panasonic's offerings within this price range?

Shawn

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Breakthrough In Grey Room


DSR PD170
DSR PDX10
PowerMac G5
Final Cut Express

It depends on what you're doing in the water. Housings are very heavy and bulky. They weigh as much as an equivalent amount of water so if you're going to be filming surfing, you may have a hard time lifting it out of the water. Scuba diving is much easier since you just push the camera and heavier one will be more stable in the swell.

Depending on where you dive, look at the low-light sensitivity. I dive in darker dirtier water where there isn't much color at 40 feet. Unless you're in crystal water under the tropical sun, get the biggest CCDs you can afford or shell out the cash for a serious UW light.

Another thing to consider is the fact that housings can fail and they do. If you get water in your camera, you're out of luck. Before shelling out 4 grand on a 170, consider if you want to buy another one to replace it if you have to.

I love filming underwater and the 16:9 that the PDx10 gives would be a nice feature to really capture the underwater world. You'll need a wide angle adapter anyway though because the housings and water give a tunnel-vision effect.

I'd go with the PDX10 and spend the extra money on a good light.