How much am I gaining by buying a camera that shoots "true" 16:9 like the pana GS400, Optura XI or PDX 10 over getting a sub $2k camera that shoots great 4:3 and cropping it in Final Cut Pro?

Thanks for any advice in advance!

Cheers,
Scott

True 16:9 gets you ~80 more lines of vertical resolution in your image. With the low resolution of SD, every line is important. GS400 or Optura Xi aren't that expensive, around $1000.

Jochua,

I have to admit that I really am interested in buying the GS400 but I am scared to death at this point of getting one with the dreaded tape transport problem... Also, where did you see them for $1k?

Cheers,
Scott

Sorry I mispelled your name.

Scott

Scott, no problem. I think I may have the noise myself, but it doesn't really matter unless you use the internal mic. I go with an external mic full time. There is a known fix to the problem, and the Panasonic service centers are aware of it. Takes a few minutes to fix, and it's under warranty.

Around $1000. I paid $1200 for mine from buydig.com. The Optura is just under $1000, I think.