Bogen 701RC2 fluid head: opinions wanted
 

The Bogen web site claims the 701RC2 fluid head is "ideal" for cameras like a fully loaded AG-DVX100, PD-150, and GL2. Can anyone attest to this? I'm in the market for an affordable (sub-$400) tripod with good fluid motion for pans and tilts. From what I've read, the only disadvantage the 701RC2 has compared to the 501 model is that it lacks variable drag for the pan and tilt, and it loses 10-15 degrees up upward tilt. I can live with those limitations. I like the idea of a smaller head to keep both price and weight down. I'm considering mating the 701RC2 with 3181 tripod for a total weight of 9.85 lbs.

Has anyone used this head?

Yes, I've got two of these heads for two GL2s. Obviously they are not going to hold a candle to a much more expensive head (there's not a lot of variability in the screw that controls the speed of pan), but for a (lightly) accessorized GL2, the 701RC2 has worked out just fine for me.

The benefits for me have been the incredible increase in smooth operation over my previous ($25) tripods, and the fact that they are relatively lightweight.

The lense on the DVX is part of the body of the camera itself. It's definitely sturdy.

DVX 100 info
 

hey guys, just got my new dvx 100. the user manual isnt the best.

does anyone know of any sites or books which explain all the functions of the camera??

Yes

http://www.dvxuser.com/articles/dvxbook/

Question about Video in and Audio in
 

Hi All !!!,

I have a question, I Have a DVC-80 (Love my Camera) and I want to recored a demo from a Laptop (through the video out) but I also want to catch the room audio. I know I can get the video from the laptop (I have done it in the past) but I don’t know how to get the audio as well. Any help would be wonderful

Thanks in advance
Michael

Basic DV out question about the DVX100A
 

Hi there

This is going to be a ridiculously simple question for most of you. I will be shooting on the DVX100A on Saturday. I want to shoot it in the 24p mode and then right after, do a firewire out to a DV deck (well, actually my Sony camera, but it'll serve as a deck).

If I shoot in 24p, how do I give it that film look when I DV it out. Specifically: how do I set it to 24p and are there any settings to make it come out at 60i, but with the film look.

Sorry for the question, I don't have the camera in my hands and I figure most of you would know this.

ROn

It's all done for you, you don't have to do anything special. Shoot in 24P, then either firewire it after or, if you can and you want to save time, you could dub it to the Sony at the same time as you're shooting. In either case the firewire stream will be 24P footage telecine'd to live within a 60i NTSC DV data stream.

I assume you want to show a presentation of some sort and narrate it at
the same time? If so I would do it differently:

1. record your talking to another system (like tape or minidisc etc.)

2. then either do an audio dub over the footage (if your cam supports that)

-OR-

2. sample the audio with your audio card and digitize the video from the camera. Put both in your NLE (editor) and put the sound under the video. Then export to your final output format (tape, dvd etc.)

serial number
 

Where can i find the serial number of the dvx100 if not looking at the viewfinder, which unfortunately i have losen it.

Can i see it in the menu or other part of the camera?
thanks!

no the serial number is UNDER the EVF.. without it Pana wont give u any support.. as they will assume its a grey import..

all cameras should have a serial whether theyre grey or not...

another review of the panasonic dvx100: may 2005
 

http://news.crystalinsight.com/index.asp?pageid=42

take a look at it. again.......what a nice cam for indies.!

This message should be deleted. A link to this website has allready been poste, Sorry for the mistake,

This same link was just posted a couple of days ago in this same section of the forum.

Panasonic camcorder voice redord help!
 

hi,
i have a Panasonic PV-GS70 camcorder, and today i recorded voice with it onto the CD card. i would now like to get that recorded voice off the SD card onto my computer, but do not now how, so how do i get the voice from the card in the camera on to my computer?
i tried sticking the SD card in our card reader but couldn't find any audio files on it...
thanks!

oops! sorry, i didnt see the forum for this line of cameras, feel free to move it to the right place!

Head Care
 

First of all, I stumbled onto this site yesterday, and it looks to be one of the greatest sites I have yet to come across for DVX 100 users. I saw that previous posts have addressed the issue of buying a separate camcorder as a more economical route instead of buying a Mini DV player, my question is this because it was somewhat unclear in the posts....if I buy a separate 300 dollar range mini DV camera, when I upload how much quality and resolution am I going to lose? Is it minor? Or will I not lose any of the quality? I was looking into getting the JVC DV VCR player the cheap one (forgot the model ), but it is selling for $698 right now, but all the reviews I have read on it say it sucks at least for sony users ( I use panasonic tapes anyways). I'm shooting a short movie, but I really don't want to lose the 24 P quality by uploading the footage on a low quality camera. And at the same time, I can't afford to wear the head of my camera. What do you guys recommend?

What is the longest lasting battery you've come across for the DVX 100? Thanks to whomever replies....
Derek

At a quandry, gl2+accesories+comp or DVX100a?
 

Well this is my dilema, I was originally thinking of purchasing a gl2, but lately I have been doing research on the Panasonic DVX100A and am finding that it is a much better camera, but here is my problem if i buy the gl2 I can buy mics,tripod,lenses, and still have money left over to pitch to a g5. If I buy the DVX100A I will only be able to get the camera and buy a g4. I mainly want to make my own films, music videos, montages, filming the outdoors, etc.. Each camera has its own +s, like the gl2 is cheaper. The dvx100a can shoot in 24p which would be usefull for filming movies. So I don't know what to do, please lend me your input.

First of all: As the DV signal is digital, there will be no loss of quality whatsoever using any DV camcorder. Except the camcorder induces problems of its own (dirty heads...).

DVXuser.com has some batteries, that are said to be very good. Multiple user reported that they take some time to deliver (2-4 weeks) - which is due to the fact, that the board operater selling them is no sales guy, but a videoguy too.

Connecting the camcorder to your PC it should actually show up as a different "hard-drive"... If you cannot even see the files using a card reader I would go back and try it another time, maybe with different settings and confirming, that the camcorder is actually "saving" the file.

Panny Pro Line Service Center?
 

One of my 30's stopped playing tapes. Panny's website shows one service center in Illinois. Anyone sent one in? Is that where you sent it? Thanks!

Fox Valley Video Service is certified service center
 

I have not dealt with them, but a Panasonic field rep has told me the company consists of retired/former Panasonic employees who know the 30's inside out. I have spoken with them, and I would feel extremely confident sending them my camcorders.

Fox Valley Video Service
771 South Eighth Street
West Dundee, IL 60118
Phone (847) 844-3330
FAX (847) 844-3887

GL2 is a great value . . .
 

Logan, the real question is how you want to use the camera. The GL2 is a great value and you will get more movie making stuff for your money. You won't get 24P/PA, you won't get a true wide-angle [but you'll get a great lens and the best telephoto] and you won't get native XLR. The DVX is a better piece of gear but not tremendously better unless some of those features are mission-critical.

If "film look" is critical, you should first investigate the filters for FCP from Graham Nattress, which do a very good job of producing film look, even 24p, in post (for $99). You don't say if you are experienced and with which cameras, but if you have the eye and experience to use the image controls on the DVX, you will get huge control over the final look, though some of the effects can be done in post and some are better left to post.

In the interests of full disclosure: I made three shorts with GL2 and recently sold it and bought the DVX-100A after some agonizing.

Adapter to UNsqueeze LCD?
 

I'm partial to being able to see the actual image in a viewfinder and this is holding me back from using the "squeeze" mode. I assume there are various accessories available to clip over the LCD to unsqueeze the image for "normal" viewing. Can folks you have used them please list them with a comment on their utility?

There are at least two products that will do what you're asking, both are available from www.centuryoptics.com. One is an LCD magnifier/desqueezer, the other is a viewfinder desqueezer.

SDX-900 & DVX-100
 

We're shooting a feature with the Panasonic SDX-900 camcorder, but we may want to pick up some second unit with the DVX-100 (shot 24p and cropped for 16x9). Anyone mixed the two and gotten away with it?

I hear about this all the time. It's a common practice, but as with all mixed camera mixing, try not to put in too much camera B footage. =)

Hope that helps!

Mixing video from different cameras
 

I'm upgrading to 3CCD equipment, but can't afford two DVX100s. Can I do a two camera shoot using any other 3CCD camera and have similar looking video? What about just using Panasonic cameras, like the GS400 as a second camera?

You won't find a less-expensive camera which will do 24p, so you won't match that. However, in 60i and its frame mode, the DVC30 does quite well compared to the DVX's 60i and 30p modes.

November Screening
 

Hi all,

Got this from Jake Abraham, producer for November. Hope it comes your way. Done with the DVX100 not even the A version by Nancy Schreiber,ASC, a most talented DP. Intersting film, great cinema. Best Cinematography Award out of Sundance 2004.
:
Jake: Wanted to let you know the exciting news: a feature film I produced,
starring Courteney Cox, hits theatres in NY and LA this Friday, July
22nd through Sony Pictures Classics.

The Bay Area and other west coast cities will open the following
weekend, July 29th, with cities around the country opening each week
thereafter, hitting around 200 theatres nationwide.

Hope you get a chance to see it!

Jan


EBERT & ROEPER TWO THUMBS UP!
STARTS AIRING SATURDAY MORNING...


TRAILER
http://www.apple.com/trailers/sony/november.html

WEBSITE
http://www.novembermovie.com

FIND A THEATRE NEAR YOU
http://www.janellebrown.com/nov.htm

Please forward this to your friends, family and co-workers --
word-of-mouth is key when it comes to independent films.

Thanks for your support and see you at the movies...

Jake


------

IFC Productions Presents
an InDigEnt Production
in association with Map Point Pictures

NOVEMBER

Starring:
Courteney Cox
James Le Gros
Michael Ealy
Nora Dunn
Nick Offerman
Anne Archer

Edited and Directed by Greg Harrison
Written by Benjamin Brand
Produced by Danielle Renfrew, Gary Winick and Jake Abraham

Original Music: Lew Baldwin
Costume Designer: Danny Glicker
Production Designer: Tracey Gallacher
Director of Photography: Nancy Schreiber, ASC

Official Selection:
Sundance Film Festival - Dramatic Competition - Excellence in
Cinematography Award
San Francisco International Film Festival
Seattle International Film Festival
Los Angeles Film Festival

After a dinner out, photographer Sophie Jacobs (Courteney Cox) and her
boyfriend Hugh (James Le Gros) stop at a corner store for a late night
snack. While Sophie waits unaware in the car, Hugh is murdered in a
violent robbery.

Haunted by guilt, Sophie goes on with her life as best she can:
teaching photography at a local art college, meeting her mother (Anne
Archer) for lunch, and visiting her therapist (Nora Dunn). But one day
at school, a slide mysteriously appears in the projector’s carousel: an
image of what looks like her car in front of the corner store the night
of the shooting. Are these paranoid visions stemming from her grief and
guilt, or does someone know something about the murder? As her
investigation deepens, more strange events occur, drawing into question
exactly what happened the night of Hugh’s death. Soon, Sophie's life
begins to splinter, as the line between fantasy and reality becomes
alarmingly blurred.

November is a psychological thriller exploring a woman’s struggle to
transcend trauma through a surreal blend of emotion and memory. The
narrative and visual style are comprised of dreamlike moments and
images stemming from Sophie’s subjective experience, blurring the line
between reality and the subconscious.

awesome!

definitely one on the "must see" list!

Paglight for DVX100A
 

Hi all,

I need some help with understanding whether the Paglight M series light will work on a DVX-100A. Specifically, if there is a connection which allows this light to run on the camera's Li-ion battery? Checked the Paglight website and am still not getting it....

Also confused about other on-board lights that have an XLR connection? I assume these draw power from the cam battery? And I also assume they utilize one of the XLR inputs? Never assume! And that's why I'm asking you bright people.

Thank you in advance!

Steph

okies, ill try to clarify afew things..

the paglight cam connector is for the larger ENG cams (shoulder mounted, or AntonBauer bettery hybrids) which have a power output connector.. the shape can vary among manufacturers
anyways. for the DVX, this is NOT a possibility, unless u get an ABauer mount with the power sharing coupler.

okies, moving on..
the XLR power which is refered to here, is a 4 PIN power connector. Some lights run off proprietary plugs (like the PaglightC6) or you can get a cigarette lighter type plug. 4 PIN is a lil more stable and offers an earthing connection so its considered "professional"
Youcan also get adapters to run XLR lights from Cig lighter batery packs.. these batteries are usually 12v shoulder wearable kits which are bloody heavy..

The XLR on teh DVX is only 3 pin, and is for audio and very minimal power supply for the mic only (I dont see how a phantom powered mic adapter can run a 100lamp...)
although theoretically, it can run LED lights,, but i wouldnt bother trying..

hope that helps..

Buying DVX102 (DVX100AE) PAL
 

Does anybody know where can I buy online the newest DVX102 (non scammer site please, preferably on the US)

thx!
L

The only dealers we recommend (or will allow any mention of, for that matter) are our site sponsors. See the link in my signature. Several of them can get PAL equipment for you.

What's the difference between models
 

AG-DVX100A

AG-DVX100AP

AG-DVX100AE And so on?

The reason I ask, is because I din't get my rebate back yet, and I'm afraid it's because of the model # I put down.

P = American market, E = Europe
 

The letter "A" at the end is part of the actual model name for the current AG-DVX100. A DVX100 without the "A" is the first-generation 24p camcorder that lacks some nice improvements (such as stiffer focus ring, more menu settings, etc.).

I could be wrong, but I'm pretty sure that models ending in P are for U.S. domestic (NTSC) markets and E are European (PAL) markets. I purchased my DVC80 from B&H in NYC, and its packaging and user manual all included a "P" at the end.

Good luck with your rebate. I hope that's not the cause for the delay. If you bought P model where they only sell E models, you might have a problem, but I don't know for sure. Jan from Panasonic sometimes visits this forum and may be able to clarify.

The Definitive Post About Dvx100 Focus/backfocus Issues
 

THE DEFINITIVE POST ABOUT DVX100 FOCUS/BACKFOCUS ISSUES

Hi all,
I did a search in the archives looking for posts about these issues and found lot of them, but I still can not make myself a clear oppinion in some issues.
I will try to make some very clear questions and I hope to get some very clear answers.
Maybe my English is not good enough to understand the other posts, but I am sure that in this way some doubts could be resolved and for me (and surely much more people) would be a biiiiig help.
So:

1. HOW TO FOCUS
YOU HAVE TO ZOOM FULL (Z99) AND OPEN THE IRIS AS MUCH AS IT GETS (DO NOT FORGET ND FILTERS!)
AND THEN FOCUS THE SUBJECT YOU WANT. THEN YOU CAN ZOOM OUT AND PUT THE IRIS WHERE YOU WANT.
THIS SUBJECT WILL BE ALWAYS FOCUSED, JUST THE SAME WAY LIKE THE BIG CAMERAS, is that OK?

2. BACKFOCUS
ONCE YOU FOCUSED WITH THE DVX100, THE FOCUS SHOULD BE PERFECT (OR THE SAME) ALL ALONG THE ZOOM.
IF I DO HAVE DIFFERENT "FOCUS" ALONG THE WAY MY CAMERA HAS A PROBLEM WITH THE BACKFOCUS ADJUSTMENT
AND SHOULD BE SEND TO SERVICE, or?

3. BACKFOCUS
BACKFOCUS CANNOT BE ADJUSTED, or?

4. FOCUS / RESOLUTION
WITH WIDE SHOTS IT IS NORMAL TO HAVE SOME VERY VERY LITTLE SOFT FOCUS, THAT IS BECAUSE OF THE LENS CONSTRUCTION, or?

5. FOCUS / RESOLUTION
IS THERE ANY WAY OR ANY TEST TO MAKE, TO KNOW IF THIS "SOFT FOCUS" IN MY CAMERA (BY WIDE ANGLE)
IS NORMAL OR IT IS TOO MUCH AND THE CAMERA SHOULD BE SERVICED?

6. FOCUS CHART
THE MOST COMPLETE FOCUS CHART IS THE ONE IN THE DVX BOOK. I DO HAVE IT,
BUT FOR THE PEOPLE THAT STILL DO NOT HAVE IT, WHICH IS THE LINK TO DOWNLOAD THE BEST ONE?

Please feel free to write more of these questions.
And (clear) answers are welcome!!! Maybe think of the (lots of) people whose first language is not English.
Thank you all

I think that an iris change does affect the focus and the depth of field.

To test focus and controls set the camera up to a large monitor and experiment.

DVX100B officially announced
 

Yesterday afternoon Panasonic announced the release of the new DVX100B.

Link: http://www.digitalproducer.com/artic...e.jsp?id=35308

Saw this but they didn't have a price for it yet. I guess they have it right now at 4k but I bet its subject to change.

Hours meter in the DVX100?
 

Can someone tell me how to check the hours meter?
thanks, RB