Canon XL2

The Canon XL2 is a exceptional piece of hardware, in it's ability to capture images closer to the finished product than ever before. Work geared for post-production can now be done on location - in the camcorder itself.
The performance of this camera is found only in much more expensive video cameras. Total Image Control, interchangeable lens capability, and superb Canon image processing quality are brought together in the XL2. This thing brings alot to the table. The performance and convenience features in this video camcorder- can't be found in this combination on other high-end video cameras. They include: Canon Super Range Optical Image Stabilization in the standard lens; dual aspect ratios; various frame rate capabilities; image gamma and detail controls; skin detail control and convertible LCD display and much more.
Now, finally, it seems that creative power been put in the hands of the film maker, video artist, and videographer.

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Sony HVRZ1U HDV Camera

The new HVR-Z1U features three newly developed Super HAD 1/3" CCDs. These new 16:9 native CCDs, combined with a high quality 12X Optical Zoom Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar Lens and a new 14 bit A/D and DXP Digital Extended Processor, result in precise image acquisition with superb detail and crisp and clear images.. The advanced CCD design allows more light to reach the pixel imager, reducing video noise and improving the signal-to-noise ratio. The new HVR-Z1U records this exceptionaly clear imagery using the recently adopted HDV 1080i format, onto a DVCAM mini cassette. Easy to use, easy to handle, easy on the wallet too.

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JVC GY-HD100U

CCD Mini DV Professional Digital Video Camcorder

One look at the this camera and it's obvious: this is not your normal camcorder. All the controls and switches are laid out in the same manner as on higher end production cameras. Because of extensive customization capabilities, there are menus, but critical performance controls are right at your fingertips where you expect them. The actual guts of this thing is a truly advanced progressive camera that sets a new benchmark in the industry. · 24 frames per second progressive acquisition produces recorded images that have a more polished, film-like appearance than typical interlaced video cameras. That's why virtually all high end digital cinematography cameras utilize the 24P system. The GY-HD100U uses three newly developed 1/3-inch native high definition CCDs that produce a more refined HD look without scaling. Since the native 24 frame material is recorded to tape, it is possible to transfer the recordings to film without frame rate conversion. Time code is recorded in the 24P mode, so recordings made with the GY-HD100U can be edited with film based or high end digital systems with complete ease.

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Sony DSR-400K Professional Camcorder

The Sony DSR-400 is said to be an amazingly versitle camcorder that pushes the envelope for high quality images in a small and efficient shoulder-mount design. It captures high resolution video in both low light and bright light with the advanced 3 x 2/3-inch power had ex chip set. I haven't had the chance to use this one yet, but I operated it's kid brother, the DSR-250 on part of a music video shoot not too far back. What I do know is that the DSR 250 was a comfortable camera, and from what I understand, the design in form didn't changed in the upgraded 400K.

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DCR-VX2100 Digital Handycam / Camcorder

N ow it's possible to take control of sound and vision with the DCR-VX2100, offering the brightest video results of all Sony MiniDV models. With new advanced progressive scan CCD technology, illumination is improved dramatically, delivering great low-light performance without the use of infrared technology. By increasing the CCD's sensitivity to light, clearer, brighter video with more lifelike color can be captured, even when recording in those dimly lit environments.
It has a 58mm aspherical lens and a duel-position neutral density filter to minimize distortion from standard spherical lenses, and compensate for different lighting situations, ie..studio lights or direct sunlight. Plus, and you don't find this on too many cameras, the VX2100 includes a built-in lens cap to protect the enhanced optics package. More 'wow' features include manual audio control and PCM Digital Stereo Audio in 12 and 16-bit modes, a manual focus and manual zoom ring, built-in color bar generator, 16:9 wide screen recording capability, intelligent accessory shoe, both 12x optical and 48x digital zoom, advanced optical SteadyShot picture stabilization and up to seven hours1 of operation with the optional NP-F960 InfoLithium battery. Overall, a pretty sweet product.

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AG-DVC7

1/4" CCD DV PROLINE

The AG-DVC7 makes it easy for anybody to produce professional-looking digital videos. And think that was the intention here. The shoulder-held design provides outstanding stability when shooting. A variety of automatic functions combine simple operation with extraordinary results. An IEEE1394 DV In/Out terminal facilitates
PC video editing and website production. And a full line of optional equipment, including a wide conversion lens, and external stereo microphone , lets the AG-DVC7 serve a variety of high-level uses in many situations. It's lightweight and easy to use, and the AG-DVC7 is ideal for applications demanding professional recording performance at a price that won't hurt the budget.

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Panasonic AG-DVC20

($1500 - $2000)

The AG-DVC20 DV is a camcorder delivers highly professional results with extremely easy operation. If you are shooting events like sports or weddings, the shoulder-held design is extremely comfortable. It also features a 3CCD camera system, advanced color engine, and 10x optical zoom lens that delivers professional-level, high-quality images. I can't forget that the navigation menu also makes operation one-touch easy. It's easy to see that it has the competitive advantage of being a highly affordable shoulder mounted camera with no competition at its price level.

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AG-HVX200

1/3" 3-CCD 16:9 HD/DVCPRO/DV Cinema P2 Camera

This handheld DVCPRO HD P2 camera-recorder is designed to meet emerging needs in HD content production. It debuts as Panasonic's first HD video product to use P2, the cutting-edge memory recording device that has the potential to revolutionize the entire production paradigm.
The AG-HVX200 records HD, either 1080i or 720p video acquired by a new optical system and high-performance digital signal processor onto a P2 card using the broadcasting DVCPRO HD codec. This system achieves a level of image quality that conventional handheld HD cameras simply cannot match, while also supporting HD/SD multi-format and multi-codec recording capabilities. Variable frame rate recording is just one of the features that makes the AG-VX200 unique in its class. This powerful function allows the overcranking and undercranking techniques used with film cameras to create fast-motion and slow-motion effects. The P2 card offers superior reliability, immediate playback and outstanding cost-performance. It allows direct connection to nonlinear editing systems and streamlines the production work flow, by providing to the editing system data files ready to be edited, rather than a video tape which would require the task of digitizing.

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AG-DVC60

1/4" 3-CCD DV PROLINE

• Shoulder-Mount Camcorder with IEEE 1394 Interface

You shoot like a professional, so you want to look like a professional. The AG-DVC60 delivers. Its wide-angle, 16X optical lens allows dramatic zoom effects. Its top-quality audio capabilities include XLR mic/line inputs and two manual level controls. With rock-solid, shoulder-mount stability, an adjustable viewfinder, 18 shutter speeds, and exceptional image quality, the AG-DVC60 lets you take your career to new heights.The AG-DVC60 is a mobile, shoulder-mount Mini-DV camcorder in a rugged yet lightweight carbon fiber alloy body. Designed for professional use, this high-performance workhorse stands at the top of its class in image quality, sensitivity, framing flexibility, and functionality.

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AG-DVX100B

1/3" 3-CCD 24P/30P/60i DV Cinema Camera

World's First DV Camera-Recorder to Support Multi-Camera Recording

The AG-DVX100B debuts as the industry's first DV camera-recorder to allow camera-to- camera time-code synchro and user-settable file transfer. This allows the AG-DVX100B to be used for simultaneous multi-camera recording techniques often used in video production. Additionally the new model offers remote focus and iris control for easier operation when mounted on a jib arm or tripod.
The AG-DVX100B offers the acclaimed performance and multiple functions of previous high-end DV camera-recorders models. In addition to superior image quality, high sensitivity, 24P/30P Cinema mode and manual operation, it has the specifications needed for full-fledged professional video production.

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