advice on mid range video camera with uw hsg

[barracuda]

hi folks,

just need some advice on a mid range decent video camera. i currently have an ancient ikelite housed sony TRV30 analog which i have been using for the last 14 years and so feel the need to upgrade to a digital one!!

have done some basic research and think a 3 ccd with a universal housing seems the way to go but dont have much of an idea on which specific models and also costs.

much appreciate on advice on the same. regards.

venkat

 

[GottaDive]

Venkat, I'm surprised someone hasn't offered an opinion yet. You know what they say about opinions!

Be careful when selecting a 3 chip camera. Just because it has 3 chips does not necesarily make it better. You have to look at the size of the chips. The Sony VX2100 at around $2500 (US) has 3 - 1/3" chips where the Panasonic PV-GS180 at around $500 (US) has only 1/6" chips. The VX2100 has an amazing picture while the GS180 is fairly average.

It's difficult to recommend a camera without knowing your budget or your needs. Is it for recreational use where you will be using primarily auto features or do you need manual control of focus, white balance, exposure, etc.

Right now I really like the Panasonic AG-HVX200. It shoots in full HD as well as SD but is around $6000.00 (US). The bottom end of the scale would be something like a Sony DCR-HC46. Not 3 chip, but is still digital and takes a fine picture at around $400.00 (US) There's a camera for you Equinox makes great mechanical housings for all of these cameras.

Enough to make your head spin right? I'm not sure about places to buy in your area, but since you are obviously on the net, check out http://www.bhphotovideo.com
First find a camera that suits your needs and budget, then check back on Scubaboard to see if anyone uses it.

Good luck. Post again with any questions.

~Steve~

 

[barracuda]

dear steve,

must admit i am surprised by the lack of response as well ! anyway, your advice is much appreciated.

to be more specific, i want a mid range camera system - preferably Canon as i am really happy with their products and preferably NOT sony as i have had a lot of negative experiences with theirs !! maybe its me ?!!

usage is primarily to document marine life for a hobby as well as on some professional assignments that we get as a PADI dive center from local organisations. the one thing i really DONT want to do is to sit ona dive boat and incessantly fiddle with my camera system as that is not fun for me so basically i want a sturdy and no frills system with a bit of manual functions capability uw. hope i am not asking for the sky !!

will check the website you mentioned and see if there is anything suitable i can throw back at you for advice as well. once again, many thanks and best regards.

venkat

 

[NauiIT]

Since you like Canon, have you considered the GL2.
It's still an excellent camera and at this point you may be able to get a good deal on one. You may also be able to find an XL2 somewhere for a good price.
The new XL H1 is a awesome camera, but it sounds like it would be way over your budget.

 

[GottaDive]

Since you like Canon, have you considered the GL2.

Good idea! I know 3 of 4 guys that shoot with the GL2 and love it. Canon should be replacing that cam soon with an HD version, so prices might be real good now. In fact, one of my friends just bought the GL 2 and put it in the Equinox housing that I suggested. Sweet rig! The Equinox is much nicer than my Aquavideo.

~Steve~

 

[webhead]

GL2 mid range :huh: ..... $1500 camera w/ a $1300 Ikelite case... ouch. And don't forget lights.

I have a DCR-PC330 and Ikelite case. Been working great. Be happy to sell it since it only goes to 200 feet and I want to upgrade to something that goes deeper.....uh...a high end camera system. ;-)