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MillimeterHands-on HVX
Feb 1, 2006 11:15 PM, By Barry Braverman
A first-look review of the Panasonic HVX200, video’s latest quantum leap.
Four channels of uncompressed (PCM) audio are supported in the HVX200.
Traditional film shooters working with the HVX200 may miss having a 6fps capability, as the camera comes only as close as 12fps. Of course, in interval and time-lapse modes, accelerated effects are still possible at much slower rates, but many veteran shooters, including myself, will miss being able to shoot “6-for-6” commercials and music videos with the HVX (that's shooting 6fps for playback at 6fps).
The HVX200 also currently lacks a 50p capability that would facilitate downconversion of DVCPRO HD files to PAL. For European producers wishing to use a single camera for a wide range of productions around the world, this could be a major hassle. Perhaps this could be corrected in the first HVX200 revision.
The HVX200 features much quieter preamps than we’re used to seeing/hearing in similarly priced camcorders.
Beyond these points, the short runtime and relatively low capacity of the P2 cards is likely to be the big issue for many shooters, especially in the documentary field. Many producers of narrative features, commercials, and music videos may not find the current card limitations a hindrance to their creativity. Longer-form shooters, however, especially of documentaries, may want to consider an external drive solution like the FireStore, which enables a continuous run time of 90 minutes or more.
The navigational buttons atop the camera are 90 degrees off from where they should be. Also, the buttons should be illuminated for easier visibility at night and on dark sets.
Final thoughts
With the introduction of the Panasonic HVX200, the inexorable industry trend toward a tapeless IT workflow has taken a major leap forward. Whether one utilizes the actual P2 cards or not, the HVX200 system obviates the need for long capture sessions and expensive VCRs. This represents potential savings of tens of thousands of dollars in time and hardware, more than offsetting the current (temporary) high cost of the P2 media. Many folks will still cite the need for videotape for backup and archiving, but this is also changing rapidly as large-capacity optical discs are on their way. In the spring, Panasonic is expected to ship its first Blu-ray burners with 50GB capacities. HVDs (Holographic Versatile Discs) also are looming. The first iteration of 5in. discs with capacity of 330GB are due for shipping in mid-2006, according to the HVD Alliance.
There you have it. Any mode you slice it, the Panasonic HVX200 is a major achievement in technology and a watershed introduction. We've always said we wanted an affordable, compact HD camcorder — a real one! — and now we have it.
FEEDBACK
To comment on this article, email the Video Systems editorial staff at vsfeedback@prismb2b.com.
