This puppy rules!
Written: Dec 05 '00 (Updated Sep 07 '01)
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Video quality, firewire, DVCam-DV setting, balanced audio, size, batter length
Cons: Focus ring, no true interchangeable lenses, viewfinder is not sharp enough
The Bottom Line: This is the Bomb!
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| PolishWonder's Full Review: Sony DCR-VX2000 Mini DV Camcorder |
September 07, 2001
Ok, folks, I'm updating this review. The focus here will really be on the Sony PD-150, but much of what I say is applicable to the VX 2000
E-pinions only permits commentary on the VX 2000, but I am now using the PD-150. They are essentially the same cameras, save for the DV-Cam and DV setting, balanced audio, B&W viewfinder, and some other minor adjustments and settings. The VX 2000 can be had for under $1,900 and the PD-150 for under $2,800 at your “favorite” New York City dealer… Actually, they can probably be bought for within a few hundred dollars from a more reputable dealer.
I’ve traveled with the camera to Russia, and have used in both cold and hot weather zones. It is light and works well in most every setting. I have found that the camera handles the weather well, and that it is easy to get through foreign customs. All in all it is a relatively small package for what you are getting. You could easily squirrel it away in a soft carrying case and look like any tourist out there. Now, granted, if you add a shotgun microphone and through on a wind protector, then you might have a few people stare at you, but it certainly is a low attention grabbing camera. The VX 2000, with its shinny silver case, would likely pass more for a tourist camera.
Automatic gain control is not bad. But you’ll quickly find a love for the manual mode. Previously I complained about the audio mode and a hiss that was observable in the manual mode (PD-150). At the time, Summer 2000, this was a big issue. Everyone was clamoring about this “horrible” situation. Well, let me just say that it was an issue, and if you have a camera that was not properly modified by Sony, then this is a problem. The problem appeared to stem from the automatic gain control circuitry and other electronic components. Sony claimed that “upgrading” the camera would diminish the audio quality, but their logic was faulty. What I think happened is that Sony put lower quality circuitry in this camera so that it would not take away from the higher-end products. Remember here that the PD-150 is the entry level Professional camera. FWIW, I had the upgrade and I think it has made a difference. I have also upgraded my audio equipment and now use Sennheiser’s Evolution microphone 500 series with GREAT success. The less gain you have on the manual the obviously better results, but try to keep your readouts above -12 and less 0. Obviously, any peaking will mean distortion. A nifty little trick if your audio is low is to run two sets of audio tracks in your NLE right over each other. This has a way of amplifying the audio – at least I’ve found that it does in Final Cut Pro 2.0 by Apple.
I’ve started to see this camera (PD-150) pop up in network television shoots. It looks like it is being used on the NBC program Lost. And it would not surprise me if it were. The camera, and its sibling the VX2000, are powerful tools in the right hands. All I can say is let your imagination run, and this camera will keep up with you for most everything. Ok, well… maybe not everything. But you get the idea, I hope!
The picture is pristine on this camera. It is noticeably better than several other Sub $5,000 cameras. And don’t even try to compare it to the consumer pack. I used it with a Sony TRV 900 while in Moscow and St. Petersburg. I alternated tapes – even for the PD-150 and odd for the 900. When I came back and began to prepare an EDL I immediately noticed the difference. There was no comparison. Flesh tones were amazing, color accuracy, even with fluorescent lighting, was very good. When I switched to automatic controls for some settings the differences became even more apparent.
The controls on the camera (PD-150 and VX2000) are wonderfully placed. There is more than enough manual functionality to make even the high-end user happy. And plenty of auto functions for an average user. Although, I’d recommend that you learn how to use the manual functions since it will maximize your video capturing.
One disappointment with the camera is the lens. First, there is an infinite focus ring – yuk! Then the lens’ optics are good, not great. I would have gladly paid another $500, or so for improved optics and a lock set type focus ring. New add-ons permit change of lens capabilities. Century Optics has wide, telephone, and fisheye type lenses. Canon also has a reasonably priced wide angel adapter. Now, I realize that this camera is not designed to have an interchangeable lens system, but I wanted to share my concerns in this area. And please don’t get me wrong here. The standard lens does a great job, and the picture really is sweet!
Despite the short coming with the manual focus ring, the focus system is pretty good. Auto focus is better than most, but you'll still find the annoying seek problem. Go for manual for better control, when needed.
Also note that the camera has a record button up near the lens and the handle. This is great for the shots you want to try and get discretely when no one is paying attention and you have the camera by your side. Be sure to turn off the record light before trying this.
Handling the camera for me is no problem. I’ve read about others who claim it is front heavy or not well balanced. But I’ve not had the problem. Get yourself the Sony 960 batteries, if anything, they can help balance out the camera. And if you have 2 I don't think you'll run our of power at all during all-day shooting, unless you are using the LCD screen. I carry 3 on trips and often go days with out a recharge. Estimated time on the 960's from my experience is about 8 hours, with moderate to heavy use – no LCD.
IF you are looking for a great camera, this is the one. I think it stands head and shoulders above the VX 1000, TRV 900, GL-1, and XL-1. Canon recently introduced the XL-1s, and from what I understand it is really being targeted to the indie-film maker. I’m sure it is a great camera, but it will cost more, it is slightly large with all necessary accessories, and well… those gosh darn colors – red and white and black all over. For under $3,000, the PD-150 is my choice, and really is my choice for under $5,000. Sure the XL-1s might be newer and have some great features, but I like the PD-150’s size, manual controls, actual built in balanced (XLR) audio, LCD, and other features.
This is a great camera for home hobbyists (those who like the best), for families, for documentarians, for professions, well... for anyone. It's one awesome camera! Hope this helps, and happy shooting!
Kind regards,
Jonathan Franklin
Elah Productions, Inc.
A 501(c)(3) not for profit corporation
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
PolishWonder
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Member: Jonathan Franklin
Location: Miami, Florida
Reviews written: 20
Trusted by: 1 member
About Me:
I'm diagnosed with techno-itis, with a compounding gadget-itis sub-issue.
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