Time to upgrade
 

We've been shooting with Sony VX-2000's for a few years now, with no problems. Now we are considering upgrading our equipment, not necessarily for the HD, but for good 16:9 production. Here's my problem: I am ready and able to handle the technology of the new stuff, but haven't kept up with all of the new terms and equipment changes. We are currently looking at the FX 7, or maybe even the new 1000. Is this going to be as easy as getting new cameras to replace my VX's and charging on? What else am I going to have to change in order to make this upgrade? We edit with Vegas 8, so I don't see that end as being a concern.

Reason for posting this here, is because our primary focus is doing weddings and only wedding videographers know what I'm looking for.

Hi Harry,

I would highly suggest the FX1000 over the FX7. The low light capabilities of the FX7 are no where near the VX2000 or FX1000. Another camera you should look into is the Panasonic HMC150. If you have a local dealer that carries both models, I would compare them side by side.

As far as editing, I don't use Vegas, but I understand that Vegas will edit the AVCHD files of the MHC150.

Whatever camera you go with, you will be pleased to discover that the cameras have developed quite a bit from the VX2000. They offer more features to help you run the camera in manual settings, especially in focus aides, which is a big plus.

Looks like the savings in media alone would be a bonus. Which cards do you use and how many do you keep on hand? Time for editing looks like it could be a hinderance.

Hi Harry,

I just have the camera for some testing, so it came with a 16 gb card, which holds around 90 minutes. I own an 8 gb and 4 gb card, so I had a total of about 2.5 hours, which is what I typically shoot to tape. Some a little more, some a little less depending on the circumstances. You can get a 16 gb card around $30.