not to mention the 12-bit ADC

> not to mention the 12-bit ADC

Oh I don't know about the PDX10's ADC, but it has 14-bit image processing... I guess it wouldn't make sense to invest all that processing if the signal is just 10 bits.

From the first review of the DVC30:

"The Leica Dicomar lens is excellent and the captured video quality is the best we've seen so far from a camcorder with 1/4-inch CCDs."

For the full text, see the March issue of Digit Magazine Online (free registration is required):

http://www.digitmag.co.uk/reviews/

Dorothy

AG-DVC30 various topics
 

I need to add a second video camera for Natue and Wildlife videography and documentaries. I would appreciate any advise on the benefits of the Canon GL2 vs Sony PD-170 and the new Panasonic DVC-30 systems. The Canon XL1s is just too cumbersome for stealth techniques.

Many Thanks,

Tom

Tom,

I have used a Cannon GL-1 and finally wore it out after 3 years. Although I was pleased with the image, I had occasional problems with tape loading lockups, plastic parts breaking, difficulty focusing, and manual white balance that refused to lock on. This was enough for me to look at some of the other brands. I had my sights set on the Panasonic DVC80 but with the 10x lens and 1.7 converter I think it would limit my reach for some wildlife subjects.

I am looking hard at the DVC30. With a 16x lens and a 2x converter that should do the trick. What also looks good on the DVC30 to me is light weight < 3lbs., magnesium body for shock resistance and the xlr attachment if needed. If the image is as good as the GL2 then it will suit my needs. B&H has the DVC30 listed at $2,199 although not in stock yet. If you are interested in this cam I would wait a few weeks until we hear some feedback from some of the brave ones who purchased it to post their experiences.

Regards,

Mark

> For the full text, see the March issue of Digit Magazine
> Online (free registration is required)

Wrong. Free registration is NOT enough. So I registered and they got my email address into their database for free :@

I am trying to set up my accesory list for my DVC30 purchase. The Panasonic site says 43mm filter diameter and B&H says 72mm. Anyone want to venture a guess as to which one is right?

Regards,

Mark

According to this:

ftp://ftp.panasonic.com/pub/Panasoni...B_AG-DVC30.pdf

It's 72mm.

The filter diameter on the DVC30 is 72mm, Mark. Go forth in confidence. Stephen will gladly reimburse you for any costs of error.

Yep, I'm rolling in the dough :)

ftp://ftp.panasonic.com/pub/Panasonic/Drivers/PBTS/brochures/B_AG-DVC30.pdf
 

The PDF Stephen reffers to states in two places the diameter of the Filter. Under [CAMERA] Line three describes the lens and line 4 states Filter Diameter = 72 mm. The again at the bottom the second to last line describes the lens hood, and the last line states Filter Diameter = 43 mm. So I would have to guess that if you are not using the lens hood you need 72 mm filters but with the hood installed use 43 mm...

Sounds kind of goofy doesn't it? Could it be that the lens hood screws on? eeww.

I did not notice that - that is a little strange. We need a hands on report on this camera and I don't know anyone who's seen it yet.

If its 72mm then that means that the only tel converter I think will fit is the Century Optics 1.7 lens at around $850.00 .
If it is 43mm then maybe the Sony 1.7-58mm with step down ring around $275.00

I've been wondering about this myself. I'll check with the DVC30 product manager and report back here as soon as possible.

Just noticed that B&H went up $50.00 on the DVC30 from their advertised price and they haven't even got it in stock yet.