Looking for NTSC/PAL switchable camera (Doesn't matter if HD or not)

[daxdigital]

Hi!

I've been looking for an NTSC/PAL switchable DV camera (brand new or used), and I currently have these options:

Canon XL-H1 (NTSC/PAL switchable, requires Canon service upgrade to PAL) - expensive
Sony HVR-Z1 (NTSC/PAL switch via menu) - popular choice

Are there any other options out there, like from JVC or Panasonic as well? It's OK if it's HD or not. Must have Firewire input/output (not just output.)

Why DV? I have a large library of tapes and the media archiving is cheaper with tapes.
And why switchable? I do productions for clients everywhere (NTSC: Philippines, USA, etc.; PAL: Singapore, China, etc.) so flexibility is at play here.

If possible, Please include these items in your costing as well:

1 additional large battery (2 better)
1 wide lens (minimal distortion as much as possible, no too much curvature on the image)
1 set of filters (UV, clear, polarizing; must match lens size)
1 tripod (must be good like Sony with remote, Manfrotto or higher better)
1 dolly (portable dolly, not the expensive track dolly kind, must be compatible with most tripods)
1 bag (for cam + some accessories)
1 video light (attachable to camera via coldshoe, like from Bescor or Sachtler, include battery too)
If handheld cam, 1 shoulder mount or brace

budget with some accessories: SGD5500 (or less if used), less than SGD8000 (variance of +/-1000) for brand new

If you have info regarding this, please reply here or send me a message. A response would be highly appreciated.

Thanks!

 

[engr]

u can do an assessment of the cost online with Expandore. I think 8.8k should be tight if all new. U need to get a used Z1. New export set 6k plus. Tripod will cost 1k plus, batts-350, wide lens-680, dolly-350, video light-130, filters-80, bag-200. The sums would point u to a used Z1 at 4-5k range n get the rest new. I do have a libec dolly to go ;p

 

[engr]

u can do an assessment of the cost online with Expandore. I think 8.8k should be tight if all new. U need to get a used Z1. New export set 6k plus. Tripod will cost 1k plus, batts-350, wide lens-680, dolly-350, video light-130, filters-80, bag-200. The sums would point u to a used Z1 at 4-5k range n get the rest new. I do have a libec dolly to go ;p

 

[samvision]

if you need it now. I think z1 is the way to go . if you can push your budget a bit , you can consider ex1.
for pansonic ..you should be looking hpx 170 that will be coming out in sep to dec

 

[engr]

HPX170 if u wanna go the P2 way.. no tape

 

[daxdigital]

Though card system is great, I have to admit to the fact that the majority of current video libraries (including mine) are in tape format. Not ready for a tapeless system now, either XLH1 or Z1 for the moment.

It has to be good compromise on these factors: global compatibility (PAL/NTSC), practicality (most of my clients don't even know what the heck is a P2 card, so tape is better option), price (tapes are way cheaper than cards) and archive reliability.

On the last point, would anyone be willing to archive your memocards? When your cards are filled up, What is the best medium possible to save your video for long-term storage?

I work as a freelance digital media artist (2D/3D, photo, video), I also shoot and accepts editing jobs from other companies. Best medium available out there that has known reliability in the field: the good ol' MiniDV tapes.

Again, these two cameras are my current option, though someone offered an HVX200, the fact that most countries use PAL and I have clients from NTSC countries can make it a bit problematic recording/playback of tapes, that's why find switchability is a key factor here.

P2 is very, very nice, but the excruciating price of a single P2 card and playback decks are enough for me to say NO!

 

[daxdigital]

OK, wiling to change my specs.

Z1U camera, with large battery and tripod (OK even if it's a Sony kind). Think I could get around 5k for that? Used or new?
Optional wide lens and bag. How about that?

 

[engr]

So means u gotta get a used Z1 for 4k. Barely can make it la.. 5.5k more realistic.. a lot of Z1 out there.. hee hee unless u dun mind a used 10/10 condition FX1e i m selling now. Then u only need 4.5k to settle everything.

 

[daxdigital]

FX1e is a PAL cam, unless tapes recorded in it are playable in the USA or it can playback NTSC tapes, or able to output live video feed in NTSC..

Ok, now Willing to go 6k...

 

[cibs]

....you can consider ex1.

EX1 system would cost a lot more. The SxS 16gb card alone is 1.2k each and the cost of the processing power and archival system would be equal to that of the camera or more. Forget this option with that budget. Mini-DV systems are still the most cost efficient for now.

 

[daxdigital]

EX1 system would cost a lot more. The SxS 16gb card alone is 1.2k each and the cost of the processing power and archival system would be equal to that of the camera or more. Forget this option with that budget. Mini-DV systems are still the most cost efficient for now.

Thank you for thinking like I do!

Though I have sufficient processing power to work with, it's the archive system where it comes to kill you. Archiving to DV/HDV is the most cost-effective solution available.

I do really like the EX1, but it's way out of the budget. Unless I trade my soul to the devil... :think:

 

[extremalis]

So means u gotta get a used Z1 for 4k. Barely can make it la.. 5.5k more realistic.. a lot of Z1 out there.. hee hee unless u dun mind a used 10/10 condition FX1e i m selling now. Then u only need 4.5k to settle everything.

Any Z1 available? 2nd hand will be fine. Price depends on condition though. Thanks! Look forward to getting your PM.