DVX or DVX100A? What's the big difference? Will it matter if I blow up to film?
 

What's the A in Advanced for. Can I still shoot with the hope it looks okay with the regular 100?

The 'A' offers about 26 changes, many minor but some noticeable improvements. The DVX100A is a refinement/update to the original camera, but the original camera is still a stellar performer.

James, when you are referring to the 'A' (advanced) do you mean DVX100 vs DVX100A or 24P vs 24PA?

If you are referring to the advanced in 24P vs. 24PA it can make a diffence if you end up going to a film out. The 24P mode uses a 2:3:2:3 pulldown scheme vs the 2:3:3:2 pulldown scheme with the 24PA mode. This 24PA mode creates a much better film out as you will be able to output without the frame blending issues.

If you are referring to the different camera designations, DVX100 vs DVX100A, then (as Barry, yes THE Barry Green, said) there are a number of different updates but the 100 is still a brilliant camera. Nancy Schreiber's Sundance cinematography award winning film November was shot on the DVX100's and not the 'A's.

Hope this helps....

Given the cost of the film-out, the price of a new DVX100a (especially less what you could get for the DVX100) might be worth it. Certainly every little bit of camera quality helps when considering a filmout.

And be sure to check out Adam Wilt's info on the subject:

http://adamwilt.com/24p/