Re: Don't see value in XF300. Alternative?
 

The argument that the Panny can be upgraded to 50/60p is moot, since not even Panny has a single delivery system to support that format. DVD and BDR do not support it. So whichever way you turn, you have to reduce fps to accepted and usable rates like 24, 25 or 30.

The EX1R/EX3 may not hold their value as you think they do, because they are not on the approved BBC list for HD programs. The only handhelds on that list are the XF300 and the XF305. That means it is quite possible that the Canons hold their value better than the Sony's.

Re: Don't see value in XF300. Alternative?
 

I used to subscribe to those points, but they are not relevant across the pond. 1080/60p is distributed widely over satellite and cable, and 4:2:2 is moot as well since ENG uses the SDI output anyway.

The problem for Blu-ray is that optical disk in general is going obsolete.

Submissions of programs to BBC is one thing, ENG is live event/news gathering. The EX1 at least has an option for 4:2:2 with a Nanoflash or similar, what option is there to give 1/3 inch sensor shallow DOF and low light except to argue 1/2 inch isn't much better, which if you want to beat that dead horse again, you have to do it without me.

Correction:
1080/60p is NOT widely distributed over satellite and cable, just 1080/24p.

Re: Don't see value in XF300. Alternative?
 

60p ability is not moot (at least, for some shooters).
Delivery options at 60p is moot.
If you want better quality slow motion effects, it's relevant.