Information Engineer

Panasonic is proud to introduce the AG-HVX200, a handheld DVCPRO HD P2 camera-recorder that’s designed to meet emerging needs in HD production. It debuts as Panasonic’s first HD video product to use P2, the cutting-edge memory recording device that has the potential to revolutionize the entire production paradigm.

The AG-HVX200 records HD, either 1080i or 720p video acquired by a new optical system and high-performance digital signal processor onto a P2 card using the broadcasting DVCPRO HD codec. This system achieves a level of image quality that conventional handheld HD cameras simply cannot match, while also supporting HD/SD multi-format and multi-codec recording capabilities. Variable frame rate recording is just one of the features that makes the AG-HVX200 unique in its class. Using technologies that make the Panasonic VariCam camera-recorder a favorite in movie production, this powerful function allows the overcranking and undercranking techniques used with film cameras to create fast-motion and slow-motion effects. The P2 card offers superior reliability, immediate playback and outstanding cost-performance. It allows direct connection to nonlinear editing systems and streamlines the production work flow, by providing to the editing system data files ready to be edited, rather than a video tape which would require the task of digitizing.

Technical Details:

- True high definition image quality (1080i or 720p) with low-compression DVCPRO HD intra-frame recording.
- Supports HD/SD multi-format and multi-codec recording capabilities.
- Includes the the P2 card, offering superior reliability, immediate playback and outstanding cost-performance.
- Features the new Leica Dicomar HD lens, developed specifically for HD recording.
- New progressive CCD and DSP for higher sensitivity and image quality.

Panasonic Pro AG-HVX200 Highlights

- Newly Designed Leica Dicomar 13x Zoom Lens System for HD Applications.
- New Progressive CCD and DSP Achieve Higher Sensitivity and Image Quality.
- DVCPRO HD: The Image and Sound Quality Broadcasters Demand Supports Multi-Codec Recording.
- Hot-Swap Recording and Other Functions that Add Versatility.
- Clip Thumbnail/Data Function.
- Variable Frame Rates from 12 to 60 fps Allows Cinematic Expression.
- Equipped with Native and Over-60p Modes for Previewing Visual Effects.
- Cine-Like Gamma Provides Warmer, Film-Like Color Tones.
- Manual Zoom, Focus, Iris and Gain Functions for the Professional.
- Scene File, User Buttons and Auto Functions for Quicker, Easier Shooting.
- XLR External Microphone Inputs and Manual Adjustment Capability Meets Professional Audio Needs.

Customer Feedback

This camera uses P2 cards or you can plug in a Firestore (you have to drop another 2K for that). I am using it with a Firestore in a chassis rig ($350) underneath the camera. This is a better setup for tripod work, but less than ideal for shoulder shooting. Its bulky and slightly delicate because you have the Firestore plug right next to the headphone jack, right in the same area as the record button. This could cause a serious problem if you accidently jar the plug while reaching for the record button.

The whole process of setting up a Firestore with the camera’s menu system, and navigating the Firestore menu to record and organize footage is a little more involved than just using mini-dv tape, but the convenience of recording to a hard drive is wonderful. It takes far less time to get the footage into the system. Of course, this is compressed, but still very good quality HD footage. I couldn’t fathom going back to SD minidv.

One last thing: I hope they make a higher resolution screen/viewfinder. I have noticed that it is sometimes hard to get things in focus because you just cannot see the fine detail needed. This is another drawback and a serious consideration. For the price, however, this is great for many types of shooting.