Hi all,

I have Panasonic PV-GS150, $699 at BestBuy. The zoom sucks as it is jerky. Plus I haven't filmed over 50 hours and already the camera has given me lots of trouble.

The last two times the camera caused the images to jump around as if the camera was bumped - which it wasn't.

Nearly ruined the entire filming.

Yeah...I know...it's a cheapie.

So I've been researching what to get.

Whew! Lot's to read.

A video buff friend of mine suggested Sony. I've researched and the DCR VX 2100 seems to reach out and grab me.

My filming scenarios are as follows:

50% of the time filming inside an indoor arena - lighting not typically bright.

50% of the time filming outside in an outdoor arena.

Also use a remote/cordless mic set up.

Both places have potential for dirt. (Am as careful as possible).

Need a good zoom - should be easily controlled and not jerky.

Is this the camera I should get?

Is the picture quality superb?

Thanks for the help!

Andy Curry

Andy,
I would say that the VX2100 will exceed your expectations in every area. The one thing you don't mention is how much zoom you need. The Vx2100 has 12X optical zoom and the control is very smooth and controlable from quite slow to pretty fast. Subjective I know but I haven't heard any complaints about the zoom on this forum. You should go for the VX2100 and not listen to the input from the GL2 people. Bear in mind that this is a VX2K forum.

You might want to elaborate on what wireless mic rig you have.

If you do decide to buy a VX2100 you should expect to pay around $2100 for it. Stay away from sites that advertise one for $1200-$1600 as they will scam you. You should not pay more than $2200 either. Check www.resellerratings.com before you buy anything from any retailer. Also don't hesitate to list on this forum the gear you decide to get with the camera if you go the VX2K route. You will get lots of good advice here.

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Mike

The 12X zoom will suffice.

I've been using a Shure L4 wireless receiver. It's worked pretty well with that other piece of junk panasonic I've been using.

Anyway, I appreciate your input and suggestions.

Andy

Hi I have been using the VX2100 for about two months now in my acting class in north Hollywood. The only complaint that I have is that the mike on the camera are useless. They are fine for family get togethers, and if you are filming a party. I bought a RODE shot gun mike and it works great. The best thing about the camera is the low light ability at 1 lux it out dose the GL2's four. So far the camera and stuff ie: tripod,firewire,tape ect. has been a $3000 investment. See if you can buy it from a store that's near buy, that way you have some body to go too when you can't get it to work. I have made several trips to see the guy who sold me my camera, and he has been very helpful in showing me how to use it. Good luck

That is good advice. With such a major purchase, try to get it from a store, as you at least have a point of contact, if you need advice or if something goes wrong.

Definitely avoid any online companies (especially if they are based in NY) selling cameras for a thousand bucks less than retail. They are in fact only selling a body only camera with no warranty, battery, charger or anything. They will try to sell you by hard sell over the phone all the accessories that should have come with the camera, plus a bunch of unbranded junk you really don't need. By the time you pay the extortionate shipping and insurance, plus all the basic accessories to get your camcorder working, it is no longer the bargain you thought it was.

It seems there is an internet electronics store based in New York (Brooklyn, maybe?) that seems to have dozens or hundreds of internet (and Ebay) identities, but you can spot their sites by they always use the same layout for the accessories.