Digital Video - September 2007 - (Page 19)

reviews VariCam—”native” mode records only the given frames for a selected speed, thereby eliminating redundant information and expanding the record times on the P2 drives. In 1080p24 (60i), each 16GB P2 card yields about 16 minutes of footage (64 minutes with four cards). In 720p24 “native” (pN) mode, each card yields 40 minutes of recording time (160 minutes with four cards). As with all P2 technology, the cards are hotswappable while the camera is recording to a separate P2 drive—thereby extending your recording time infinitely (that is, over as many P2 cards as you can cycle through). The PCMCIA P2 cards utilize free software and drivers from Panasonic, can be read by any PCMCIA reader (included in most modern laptop computers). The camera also includes an internal intervelometer for time-lapse photography and a one-frame setting for animation. Working for my first time with P2, I was surprised at how simple the solid-state technology was to operate. Playback in the camera is incredibly quick and easy. Every time you start or stop the camera, a “clip” is made with a thumbnail for the clip. Surfing through the clips to review is fast and intuitive. Integrating footage into Final Cut Pro v5.0.4 on a Mac PowerPC G5 dual 2 GHz system was simple. Hooking the camera directly to the system via IEEE 1394 6-pin FireWire 400, the transfer of both 1080 DVCPRO HD and 720 DVCPRO HD footage was seamless. Final Cut controlled the camera and, depending on the setting, went directly to the 720 or 1080 footage on the cards without prompting. Conclusion Possibly the most exciting feature of the Panasonic AG-HPX500 is its price. With the package I tested (four 16GB P2 cards and a Fujinon XA17x7.6BRMM58B lens) available at a price of $27,815, I can see these things flying off the shelves. The camera’s versatility—recording in more than 30 HD and SD formats—and excellent performance definitely set it apart in its price range. This is a package I didn’t want to send back! ■ Jay Holben was a director of photography for eight years before turning to produce and direct full time. He has been a technical editor for American Cinematographer magazine in addition to being a contributing writer for more than 10 years. DEMAND MORE. Audio-Technica’s portable dual wireless solution. Introducing Audio -Technica’s new 1800 Series dual-channel camera-mount UHF wireless systems. These ultra-portable professional wireless systems are designed for simultaneous use of two microphones. Systems include plug-on and/or body-pack transmitters plus a compact dual receiver featuring: • Two independent receiver channels • Two balanced outputs, independent audio level controls • UHF reception (996 frequencies selectable/25 kHz steps) The new 1800 Series delivers more: crystal-clear audio quality & the incredibly versatile performance that distinguish Audio-Technica products around the world. • True Diversity operation • Automatic frequency scanning • Tone Lock™ squelch • Headphone monitor output www.audio-technica.com http://www.audio-technica.com http://www.audio-technica.com

Table of Contents Feed for the Digital Edition of Digital Video - September 2007

Contents News AG-HPX500 HD Camcorder First Look: Color V8000HD 8" LCD Monitor Shoulder Mount System Instant Expert Close-Ups Fest Cercuit Q&A Flight Plan Cutter's Way Imagination in Action Motion Graphics Production Diary

Digital Video - September 2007

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