Hi, I have a pd170 and I've been thinking about buying a vx2100 to use as a 2nd camera for wedding ceremonies. Is this a good idea? Before I decide I was wondering:

Are there cheaper cameras to buy as an alternative to the vx2100?
Is a HDV camera a better choice than the vx2100?
Is another pd170 a more logical choice?

Most of all I would like to know is there a cheaper camera than the vx2100 that will pair well with the 170, since I will primarily only use it for wedding ceremonies as an unmanned 2nd camera?

Any help or advice is much appreciated.

Why not get a VX2000? It's very similar and will work out perfectly for you I think.

The need for HDV depends on your audience. Do you think most of them are today able to watch HD content? I really doubt.

Richard:

VX2100 would be a near exact match, and you would have virtually no problem in matching the two cameras.

I have VX2000, and I bought the FX1 to pair with it when needed. VX/PDs have better low light capability, but with FX1 I shoot in HDV, then downcovert, either out of camera, or while editing. I think the FX1 actually gives you better quality DV, and you would probably be making it your main camera, with the PD becoming your second camera. However, FX1 will require a Beachtech XLR adapter.

Thanks.


I wonder how the HCR-HDR 1 or 3 would pair with pd170. Does anyone have any thoughts, insight, or advice on how this pair would fair? Is this camcorder worth considering?

Well, there are those who say the single chip Cmos chip type camera will replace the 3 chip cameras. There have been a lot of discussion on in the HDV section about these issues. Browse that area for more on it.

Thanks. I'll let you all know what I end up getting. But I unfortunately I have to wait. I am leaning towards the Sony HDV HDR 3 because the price is good and would like to try HD.

Thanks. I'll let you all know what I end up getting. But I unfortunately I have to wait. I am leaning towards the Sony HDV HDR 3 because the price is good and would like to try HD.

Richard:

Check this thread out for some shots by the HC1:

http://www.dvinfo.net/conf/showthread.php?t=67425