By Carl Mrozek, April 11, 2008
After a decade-long procession of new and improved HD cameras and camcorders at NAB, what more can we hope to see this year? Will it be a year of dramatic breakthroughs, of cameras that exceed expectations, or will cameras finally meet core expectations? Obviously, that depends on your expectations.
If you were hoping to find a CineAlta-type camera for under $10,000, you might be disappointed. The latest addition to Sony’s CineAlta camera family, the PMW-EX1, is already on the market for around $6,000. Unlike the HDW-F900, it captures 720p and can operate at 50 or 60Hz. Not bad for less than the cost of a “cheap” 2/3" HD lens.
If you were expecting a 4K cine-style camera for under $20,000, you also might be disappointed
. That was last year’s breakthrough in the Red One, although Red Digital Cinema promises something comparably impressive this year, but in a much smaller package and for a smaller price. If you prefer bigger cameras, with 2/3" full-raster HD sensors, at bigger prices, you shouldn’t be disappointed as there should be several offerings for sale this year.
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If you’re expecting great things in small (camera) packages, you shouldn’t be disappointed, either, as there will be more than a few new camcorders with 1/3" sensors, able to capture full-raster HD at 1920x1080, in multiple formats and even standards (50Hz, 60Hz). If you prefer even smaller cameras, there will be something for you, too.
Click www.dv.com for the whole story.
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