"Curt Zimmerman" <cwz@mc.net> wrote in message

news:tqmtsvkb6g1dpvelqsvgjt73u3jvlj4qob@4ax.com...

> I'll be purchasing two video cameras in the near future. I think I'm

> interested in pro-sumer or low end professional cameras. After

> looking at several, and comparing prices, features, and such, we have

> it narrowed down to two likely models. The Canon GL-2 and the Sony

> PD-150. Comparing specs alone, the GL-2 appears to be the better

> camera. Pricewise (at least in the magazines), the GL-2 is much

> cheaper.

>

> I know that there are LOTS of non-spec, non-price, intangiable things

> that make one camera better or worse than another. Anything from

> warranty service, to low light capability, and even things like the

> microphone picking up your finger moving on the zoom switch. Can

> anyone share personal experiences or preferences between these two

> cameras with me? If I'm off base with these two models, please feel

> free to recommend another a completely different one.

The VX2000 is considerably less expensive than the very similar

PD150 (and both have replacement versions coming out soon,

the VX2100 and PD170). No XLRs (these can be added with

adaptor-boxes, or transformer-adapters [each has merits]), but

I prefer the controls of the VX2000. The VX2000 (and variants)

is still the low-light and resolution king (by a tad), but the other

current "good" cameras in its class each has its unique characteristics

that may lead you to preferring or disliking it (Panasonic DVX100/80,

Canon GL2, JVC DV-GY300). These web sites may help:

www.David-Ruether-Photography.com/articles.html (see the video section,

especiallywww.David-Ruether-Photography.com/vid_pict_characts.htm,

www.David-Ruether-Photography.com/sony_dcr-vx2000.htm, and

www.David-Ruether-Photography.com/camcorder--comparison.htm)

www.bealecorner.com

www.adamwilt.com

http://www4.big.or.jp/~a_haru/index.html

http://www4.big.or.jp/~a_haru/exknow2002au

> The cameras will be used to make commercial videos, but probably not

> broadcast.

> I have some specific questions too.

> 1). What is DVCAM format? How does it compare to MiniDV?

Very nearly identical but for tape speed (affects only drop-out rate).

> 2). Which is better, electronic or optical image stabilization?

Both can be equally good, but the 3-chippers all now have optical

stabilization - but their characteristics vary from model to model...

> 3). Do either or both of these cameras have LanC control jacks?

Canon and Sony do, don't know 'bout the others...

> 4). I've also found conflicting specs on the GL-2 LCD screen size. Is

> it 2" or 2.5"?

Who cares? It is too small/unsharp/off-color to use easily for anything

but framing, and then only in low light levels. With experience and best

set-up, it can be a reasonable guide for exposure and color-balance

for interior work, though...

> Thank you in advance for your help!

>

> Curt

--

David Ruether

d_ruether@hotmail.com

http://www.David-Ruether-Photography.com