Panasonic AG-DVX100B 3-CCD 24p/30p/60i Mini-DV Cinema Camcorder, NTSC, with CineSwitch Technology, CineGamma Software, FireWire Interface and New Black Sapphire Color
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Discontinued
The AG-DVX100B is the most recent version of the Panasonic 24-frame standard definition video camera. When initially introduced, the AG-DVX100 (pre-A model) was the first small video camcorder to offer film-like 24-frame per second recording. High-end shoulder mount cameras offer film-speed recording, but operating these cameras requires a large production crew and oodles of money. The next model, the AG-DVX100A added more gamma correction and other cine' picture-look settings than the first model.
The AG-DVX100B is the improved version of the "A" camera with some 20 new features like a higher resolution viewfinder, Scene Files and Time Code transfer through the FireWire cable, greater power efficiency with newly developed battery pack, more delicate zoom control and more. An all-black paint job on the new DVX-100B camera actually hides finger marks and smears and reduces reflection compared with the older silver bodied "A" model. This latest version also comes standard with Magic Bullet edit software and an instructional DVD production book.
- Superior Image Rendering with the Leica Lens and OIS
- The Leica Dicomar lens featured in the AG-DVX100B incorporates Leica optical technology and real-world professional experience. Use of low-dispersion glass reduces color aberration and increases resolution, while a multi-coating process minimizes flare and ghosting. The results are sharp, crisp, beautifully rendered images with delicate nuances and exceptional shading. The lens system features 15 lens elements in 11 groups, including three aspherical lenses. Panasonic's advanced OIS (Optical Image Stabilizer) drastically cuts the blurring caused by hand shake. Optical processing with an automatic correction function helps assure consistently clear, sharp images.
- High Sensitivity and Superior Image Quality
- Panasonic designed the AG-DVX100B to deliver the high sensitivity and picture quality professional require. At its heart is a 3-CCD RGB system comprising three 1/3", 410,000-pixel progressive CCDs developed especially for broadcast and professional applications. The new "on chip lens" design achieves high f/11 sensitivity, allowing the camcorder to record in light as dim as 3 lux, for example, in nighttime news gathering. Its high Signal to Noise ratio means less noise in darker parts of the image and low smear that allows shooting in sunlight or under bright spotlights.
- High-Sensitivity Slow Shutter (Cumulative) Function
- The slow shutter function uses image accumulation to enable shutter speeds with frame rates reduced by half or more. You get the ultra-high sensitivity needed for nighttime shooting without illumination, as well as dramatic frame-by-frame or soft focus effects.
- High Image Quality with 12-Bit A/D Conversion
- The AG-DVX100B features an A/D converter that uses the same 12-bit processing as broadcast cameras. Precisely digitizing the gradation and colors captured by the progressive CCD, this A/D converter supports gamma switching and other fine downstream image adjustments.
- RGB Gamma Processor Provides Rich, Film-Like Tones
- Panasonic has greatly expanded the expressive capability of the DV camera by creating unique gamma functions such as Cine-Like gamma curves, which produce images strikingly similar in tone to film images. For each of the RGB signals, the gamma curve settings are processed immediately upstream from the digital signal processing circuit. This helps achieve outstanding image quality. The AG-DVX100B continues with the tradition of the seven gamma curves pioneered with the DVX100A.
- High-Quality, Native Progressive 24p/30p Mode
- Thanks to its progressive 3-CCD chip-set, the AG-DVX100B creates native progressive images with outstanding vertical resolution unlike images produced using conventional electronic interpolation. With its high mobility and low costs, the AG-DVX100B is the ideal tool for producing independent films, shorts, or streaming video. You may choose from three shooting modes: 24p (24 fps, progressive) for images with the look and motion of film movies, 30p (30 fps, progressive), or standard 60i (60 fps, interlace).
- 24p Advance Mode For 24p Non-Linear Editing
- In 24p mode, images from the CCD can be 2:3 pulldown-converted (24p Mode) or 2:3:3:2 pulldown-converted (24p Advance Mode) and recorded onto tape in the standard 60i TV format. The tape can then be played back or edited using an ordinary DV system. True 24p editing can be achieved by uploading 2:3:3:2 pulldown-converted images via an IEEE 1394 DV interface to a compatible non-linear editing system. The 24p Advance Mode allows 60i/24p conversion with minimal picture degradation and on the fly 24 frame extraction.
- Improved Color Reproduction and Advanced Image Adjustments Built-In
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- Optimized color separation optics help provide true-to-life colors
- Enriched Matrix setting offers more saturated colors
- Adjustable V detail level (edge correction in vertical direction), H/V detail balance, and detail coring (detail noise removal)
- Knee point (luminance compression) settings Auto, Low, Mid and High
- Wide-Angle Zoom Lens Addresses Professional Needs
- The AG-DVX100B zoom lens extends from 4.5mm to 45mm covering the full wide-angle range needed in most broadcast and professional shooting scenarios. It gives you ample range for close-ups, recording in small rooms, and self-recorded interviews. In addition, with a minimum object distance (MOD) of approximately 0.6 m (1.9') in telephoto mode, the AG-DVX100B has the maneuverability of a handheld camera.
- Fast, Smooth Cam-Driven Manual Zoom and Focus Assist
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The cam-driven (mechanical) manual zoom ring provides the same smooth, easy zooming as cameras with interchangeable lenses. Its direct operation gives you fast, precise zooming control. When you turn the zoom ring, you will experience the familiar steady resistance as with familiar 35mm lenses. The AG-DVX100B is also equipped with a servo-driven zoom that allows slow zooming. Slowest zoom has been reduced to a dramatic 30 seconds from 20 seconds.
Enjoy quick, sharp focusing manually or automatically. In manual mode, the focus ring provides the similar operating feel and responsive control as conventional cameras with interchangeable lenses. In Auto Focus mode, you get the quick, sharp focusing needed in news gathering or when shooting at a high or low angle. When set to infinity, the focal distance is immediately prepared for the next manual focus. When in Manual Focus mode, pressing the Push Auto button temporarily activates auto focus. Macro Focus can be achieved either manually or automatically when the zoom lens is in the wide angle position.
- Three User Buttons for Customized Operation and Scene File Dial
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The AG-DVX100B provides three user buttons, each of which can be assigned any one of the 11 functions. The assigned functions can then be accessed at the touch of a button. This lets you customize the AG-DVX100B for quicker, easier, more versatile operation.
Set the Scene File dial for any particular shooting condition, and later you can retrieve the settings instantly. Six preset files are provided (F1 to F6); you can change any of the six file names and their settings as desired. The AG-DVX100B also introduces a new design in which a rib protects the scene file dial to prevent unintentional file changes.
- 3-Position White Balance with Auto Tracking White Function
- One press of the AWB button is all it takes to adjust the white balance and black balance. There are three white balance values to select from one preset and two (A and B) that you can set and save in memory. The Auto-Tracking White Balance (ATW) function can also be assigned to any of the three positions. The ATW mode supports fast, active shooting by adjusting the white balance in real-time as lighting conditions change.
- Auto Button for Instant, Easy Shooting
- Just press the Auto button to turn on Auto Iris, Auto Gain, Auto Tracking White Balance, and Auto Focus and you are quickly ready to shoot. You can also customize the Auto button by removing functions and setting the gain to any value desired. With this new Auto function, the AG-DVX100B gives you the best of both worlds- the speed and ease of automatic operation and the precision of manual control.
- Lightweight and Balanced Design
- The AG-DVX100B has an advanced design that ends the contradiction between a compact, lightweight body and overall stability. The center of balance is located precisely at the handgrip. Because there is no need for a wide-angle conversion lens, the weight balance is ideal for comfortable shooting. The AG-DVX100B's short body and lightweight (about 4 lb/1.9 kg) in operating condition means free, easy maneuverability. In addition, the low-center-of-gravity design and new skeleton lens hood greatly improve forward vision.
- Magnesium Alloy Chassis
- The AG-DVX100B features the same magnesium alloy die cast chassis as the DVCPRO broadcast cameras. This tough, rigid unit protects the high precision mechanism, giving the AG-DVX100B outstanding reliability and durability. Built for professionals, the AG-DVX100B stands up to the bumps and jolts that occur in the field.
- Time Code Synchro and File Transfer Functions
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Connecting two AG-DVX100B units together with a FireWire cable (IEEE1394) allows synchronous time-code setting, which then enables time-code-locked editing of clips recorded with multiple camcorders for "TC synchro editing." The built-in SMPTE time-code generator/reader lets you select, preset and regenerate the Drop Frame/Non-Drop Frame and Free Run/Rec Run modes. User Bits are also provided, letting you record your choice of date, time, frame rate or user data.
The new User File transfer function makes it easy to get uniform image quality from multiple camera-recorders. When two AG-DVX100B units are connected together with a DV cable (IEEE1394) you can transfer user files containing camera parameters to help match cameras on a multiple camera shoot. Additionally, the Time Code value can be transferred as well making a common starting point for recording.
- Remote Operation Function
- The AG-DVX100B is equipped with terminals that allow remote control of focus and iris settings. You can combine these control functions with the conventional remote control functions (Zoom, Rec Start/Stop) to create an easy-to-use remote control system for mounting to the handle section of a tripod or on a remote arm of a jib.
- Three 16:9 Wide Modes, Including the New Squeeze Mode
- The AG-DVX100B has three modes for shooting 16:9 widescreen images. Use the optional 16:9 conversion lens (AG-LA7200G, sold separately) to take full advantage of the higher image quality made possible by using all of the CCD pixels. With the standard lens, you can record in letterbox mode or the newly added Squeeze mode. This gives you extra flexibility when using the AG-DVX100B together with equipment from other manufacturers. Activating the Aspect Ratio function on the LCD allows for a letterbox display for easier framing when shooting in Squeeze Mode or when using the Anamorphic lens.
- External Backup with the IEEE 1394 Synchro Lock Function
- An IEEE 1394-compliant 4-pin DV terminal features a synchro lock function that allows the AG-DVX100B to remotely start and stop an external DV device connected to it via a DV cable. Three recording modes help protect against mistakes: record only onto the external recorder, record onto both the AG-DVX100B and the external recorder, begin external recording when the AG-DVX100B tape ends.
- Support Functions for Greater Convenience
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- End search: Automatically searches for the last recorded portion of the tape. Convenient when preparing to start the next recording.
- Mode check: Displays a list of the camera settings on the viewfinder and monitor. Makes it easy to check settings before recording.
- 2-Pattern zebra: Displays an overexposure warning on the viewfinder and monitor. Select any two levels from among 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 100% and 105%.
- Rec Check: Plays back the last portion of a recorded passage for easy checking.
- Index: Enables marking while recording. Convenient for searching after recording.
- Tally lamps: Provided on the unit front and rear menu switchable.
- Reversible eye cup for left and right-eyed shooters.
- Built-in SMPTE color bars useful for setup.
| Signal System | NTSC, 30 Frames, 60 Interlaced Fields/sec |
| Image Device |
3-CCD, 1/3" Interline Transfer-Type |
| Lens |
4.5 - 45mm (10 x Optical Zoom) f/1.6 72mm Filter Diameter Minimum Object Distance= 1.9' (0.6m) No Digital Zoom |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
| Horizontal Resolution | 500 Lines |
| Sensitivity | f/11 @ 2000 lux |
| Minimum Illumination | 3 lux @ f/1.6 with 18 dB Gain and 50 IRE Output |
| Vertical Smear | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
| Built-in Filters | 1/8 ND (2 Stops), 1/64 ND (4 Stops) |
| LCD Monitor | 3.5" Color LCD Monitor with 210,000 Pixels |
| Viewfinder |
0.4" Monochrome/Color Switchable with 235,000 Pixels |
| Scan Matching | Yes, 24.1 Hz - 250 Hz |
| Memory Card Slot | None |
| Shutter Speed Range |
1/24 sec - 1/2000 sec Different Ranges for Different Recording Modes |
| Gain Selection |
0dB, 3 dB, 6dB, 9dB, 12dB, 18dB O dB Fixed during Slow Shutter Mode |
| VTR Section | - |
| Tape Format | DV |
| Tape Speed |
18.812 mm/sec. SP Mode 12.555 mm/sec. LP mode |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
| Maximum Recording Time | 60 Minutes with Mini DV Cassette in SP Mode |
| Audio Dynamic Range | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
| Audio Signal Format |
16 bit/48kHz 12 bit/32kHz Switchable |
| Audio Frequency Response | 20Hz - 20kHz |
| Signal to Noise Ratio | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
| Input and Output Connectors |
FireWire- 4-Pin (x 1 input and output) S-Video- 4-Pin (x 1 input and output) Composite Video- RCA (x 1 input and output) Audio- RCA (x 2 input and output) Mic/Line Input- XLR (x 2 input only) Headphone- Mini Stereo (x 1 output only) Remote- Mini Mono (x 1 input only) Power- Proprietary Connection (x 1 input only) Video and Audio connectors act as both Inputs and Outputs and automatically switch depending which mode the camcorder is in, unless otherwise stated. |
| Power Requirements | 7.2 - 7.9VDC |
| Power Consumption | 18W Maximum |
| Operating Temperature |
32° ~ 104° F 0° ~ 40° C |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) |
5.5 x 6.4 x 14.4" (139 x 160 x 364 mm) |
| Weight |
4.2 lb (1.9 kg) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 108 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
99%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Great picture quality (93)
- Comfortable to operate (67)
- Great features (62)
- Durable (58)
- Great sound (54)
Cons
- Complicated to operate (9)
- Poor sound (8)
- Limited zoom (6)
- Poor in low light (3)
Best Uses
- Movies/short films (82)
- Weddings (41)
- Documentaries (40)
- Travel (38)
- Outdoor events / games (36)
- How long have you owned it:
A month or less
42%
(13 reviews)
One-to-three months
Three-to-six months
More than six months
- Reviewer Profile:
- Semi-pro (27), Enthusiast (19), Semi-professional (18), Professional (17), Pro videographer (13)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (15)
Most Liked Positive Review
Great Standard DV Camcorder!
I LOVE this camcorder!! I am going to be using this to film a low budget feature film. I specifically the DVX100B for shooting at 24 frames per second mode (like film) and...Read complete review
I LOVE this camcorder!! I am going to be using this to film a low budget feature film. I specifically the DVX100B for shooting at 24 frames per second mode (like film) and if you set up final cut pro correctly (using the 2:3:3:2 pull down) the footage is very comparable to a 16mm film camera. This camera is cram packed with features and is WAY more than I expected when I bought it. The XLR jacks on the camera capture really good sound using an external shotgun mike although I will probably use and EQ and compression on the audio in post. This camera can go full auto at the push of a button, it has 2 zebra striping modes to help you check your light levels for blowouts, and a ton of preset features to really fine tune your settings to specific environments and lighting. There are 6 programmable "scene" settings that allow you to store all of your location specific settings (for example "outdoor on a sunny day" vs."inside on a dark night".) and all this isn't even scratching the surface of all the options you have available with this camera. As far as the design and functionality, I have NO complaints. So what's bad about it? Well, I think the only complaint that I had was that there were so many features to learn how to use that I needed
"The DVX Book" to really explain to me how everything works. The acronyms for the settings in the menu aren't always self explanatory. For example, I had no idea that "OIS" stood for Optical Image Stabilization (yeah, it does that too...). You really need to print out a "cheat sheet" of the menu tree and read "The DVX Book" to really get a handle on the DVX. If you are stepping up to this camera from a consumer camcorder, you will spend a lot of time learning how to use this camera, but once you do you are going to be VERY happy if you want to get a 16mm color film camera result. Oh, and let's not forget that it not only shoots in 2 24fps modes (24p and 24ap) and it also shoots in NTSC 30fps and 60i. Yes, you can do at least 3 different types of slow motion and time lapse if you speed up settings in your NLE program. (All of this is explained in The DVX Book. The ONLY technical challenge I have had using the DVX is manual focusing. I would strongly recommend looking up "DVX focus chart" and download the file. It will save you hours of frustration. Bottom line? If you are looking for a 24p in the price range, this camera is worth it!
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
hardly worth it
I bought this camera because the Sony DSR 250 is longer available. This seemed like a good replacement but I am less than impressed with the quality and durability of the camera compared to the...Read complete review
I bought this camera because the Sony DSR 250 is longer available. This seemed like a good replacement but I am less than impressed with the quality and durability of the camera compared to the Sony.
Will have to say, I thought about sending it back, but realized it would make a good backup camera to what I have, so I'm keeping it. Would I buy another one. Probably not.
Reviewed by 108 customers
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Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- Home Movies
- Movies/Short Films
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Panasonic AG-DVX100B 3-CCD 24p/30p/60i Mini-DV Cinema Camcorder, NTSC, with CineSwitch Technology, CineGamma Software, FireWire Interface and New Black Sapphire Color:
This camera is for the money and tech. quality the best.
I've used it for live music shows on stage hand held and worked great, and weddings,Documentaries.
Along with the zoom focus control hooks up to my jib great(10ft.boom)w/mc50 control head).
24p is great aswell. I'll step up to HMC-150 and the AF-100 next.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Images shared by Bruce
W/Matt Box & Fallow focus.
(1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)
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Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- Music video
Comments about Panasonic AG-DVX100B 3-CCD 24p/30p/60i Mini-DV Cinema Camcorder, NTSC, with CineSwitch Technology, CineGamma Software, FireWire Interface and New Black Sapphire Color:
Wonderful sound quality. I connect 2 xlr cables up to a good mic on a stand, 50 feet away, close to the singer/ instrument I'm recording; great audio and video results.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Panasonic AG-DVX100B 3-CCD 24p/30p/60i Mini-DV Cinema Camcorder, NTSC, with CineSwitch Technology, CineGamma Software, FireWire Interface and New Black Sapphire Color:
i wanted to knew if this camera in europe
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Film mode shooting
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Large Clear LCD
- Rugged
Cons
- Limited Zoom
- Non native 16x9 lens
Best Uses
- General use
Comments about Panasonic AG-DVX100B 3-CCD 24p/30p/60i Mini-DV Cinema Camcorder, NTSC, with CineSwitch Technology, CineGamma Software, FireWire Interface and New Black Sapphire Color:
I've only owned this camera for 2 weeks when I decided to upgrade to the HVX200A. Great camera for standard definition DV shooting. Very well designed. Film cam as well as video cam modes. Multitude of customizable manual/auto camera functions.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
- Complicated To Operate
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- Home Movies
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Panasonic AG-DVX100B 3-CCD 24p/30p/60i Mini-DV Cinema Camcorder, NTSC, with CineSwitch Technology, CineGamma Software, FireWire Interface and New Black Sapphire Color:
I ordered the AG-DVX100B because I didn't want to go HD. I know everything is moving that way but I wanted control over my camera. I must say that having worked in a newsroom that this camera allows me as much control of my image and picture as the $15,000 equivalent full sized pro cameras.
The picture is more than I wanted especially in 24p mode. The learning curve is a little steep, and the lense is a little short in some situations. Overall I am really happy with it.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Excellent audio interface
- Good in Low Light
- Great Design
- Great Lens
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Highly Flexible
- Large Clear LCD
- Relatively light weight
- Robust feature set
Cons
- Complicated To Operate
- No stop-motion recording
- Poor Still Image
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- Home Movies
- Indie
- Indie DV productions
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
Comments about Panasonic AG-DVX100B 3-CCD 24p/30p/60i Mini-DV Cinema Camcorder, NTSC, with CineSwitch Technology, CineGamma Software, FireWire Interface and New Black Sapphire Color:
I am just now learning to use the DVX, but I am comfortable now with about 90% of the options on this camera so it's time to write a review. The more I learn about videography, and the better I get shooting with the DVX, the more amazed that I am with this camera. I bought the DVX100B because of the excellent reviews that people gave it, but now that I have used it, I now understand why people love it. At first the locations of many of the buttons and functions seemed mystic, but then when I picked up the DVX and started doing some hand shooting, or holding the camera to your eye to shoot, all of the sudden all of the buttons are "conveniently" located in the right places. This is not by accident. This camera is VERY well designed, though probably more for right handed people.While there are a slew of auto-functions on the DVX for the "fast" videographer to just point and shoot on the run, I'm actually more on the DV indie-film side so I run many of the controls, such as fStop/Iris, focus and shutter speed manually. The lens is great. It has a really wide angle, but can go to an acceptable zoom mode as well, and with the right settings the images can be stunningly good. There are a slew of functions for image enhancement, 3 (actually 4) white balance settings, 3 levels of gain for low light shooting (and customizable), there are settings to filter out excessive light in high lighting conditions, as well as electronic functions to clean up images, enhance details, vary color curves etc. (This only scratches the surface of your options and functions! Seriously.)Oh, and for self recording or other stationary recording, the remote control for the camera is really a nice addition!People have complained about the sound quality, but with my shotgun mic (and a decent boom/boom operator) I think the audio recording is quite acceptable. Clean signal, if not the most robust waveform. Oh, yeah, DO NOT use the mic built onto this camera. It's not good enough. You can pick up a nice shotgun mic for around $200+ and it's well worth the investment. Fortunately the DVX has an audio jack for studio headphones for audio monitoring, and it comes with 2 48v phantom power mic jacks. This is the pro stuff, it's what you want.If you are new to DV and are coming from consumer point-and-shoot cameras (like me) you might be overwhelmed at first by just how many options there are on this camera and you may wonder what the heck half of them do. However, once you start understanding all of the features of this camera and what they do, and especially how much flexibility they give you, you also start to understand that this is a fantastic, top quality, piece of equipment that will match almost anyone's creative aspirations. If you can think of the shot in your head, you can probably do it with this camera. (Get a Letus DOF adapter if you really want to get some cinema-like depth of field shots).Yeah, I know there are a lot of HD cameras out there and that HD is the wave of the future, but honestly, I don't care. I get great shots with this camera and I just love it. (Plus I don't have another [$] to spend on a camera!)There are really on 2 "must haves" to go with this camera:1) Barry Green's "The DVX Book"2) A decent shotgun microphone with an XLR cable that runs on phantom power.Good luck!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- All metal construction
- Durable 1000 hour heads
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
- Limited Zoom
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Panasonic AG-DVX100B 3-CCD 24p/30p/60i Mini-DV Cinema Camcorder, NTSC, with CineSwitch Technology, CineGamma Software, FireWire Interface and New Black Sapphire Color:
The Panasonic DVX100B and its 60i sibling DVC80 have graced video projects for nearly a decade. This rugged, responsive, beautiful work of Standard Definition art will be remembered for its quality and value. The DVX100B is head and shoulders above its less reliable MiniDV competitor, Sony's GL2. The Panny's larger metal construction, bigger lens, XLR inputs, monster 3.5" LCD, bigger 3CCD chips (1/3" vs. 1/4"), and more rugged tape transport system are qualities not found elsewhere in this price range. That Panasoninc still makes these babies in an HD world, is a testament to the love affair we budget documentary filmmakers have had with them. If you are commited to standard definition videotape, you owe it to yourself to get the best of the breed before it becomes a memory. Chances are you will never need the durable 1,000 hour video heads, and can take comfort in knowing your grandkids are likely to inherit this example of electronic magic!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
- Limited Zoom
Best Uses
- Corporate Films
- Documentaries
- Movies/Short Films
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Panasonic AG-DVX100B 3-CCD 24p/30p/60i Mini-DV Cinema Camcorder, NTSC, with CineSwitch Technology, CineGamma Software, FireWire Interface and New Black Sapphire Color:
I own my own production company and this camera has been with me since day 1. I've now been in business for 2 years and this camera has worked great with a huge variety of projects. The only complaint I have is the zoom is not great for applications such as sports videography. The 10x zoom has limited me on a few projects. I still use this camera today but also have a Sony FX1000 and and am looking into getting an EX-3 in the next few months. However, the DVX will always be my baby. Great lens, great cinematic look (24p), great controls, and solid low light performance. I suggest getting a shotgun mic using the great dual-XLRs. The Rode NTG-1 is great for those on a budget and the NTG-3 is great for pros looking to make an investment. Definitely suggest the DVX100b!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
- None
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Movies/Short Films
- Skateboarding
Comments about Panasonic AG-DVX100B 3-CCD 24p/30p/60i Mini-DV Cinema Camcorder, NTSC, with CineSwitch Technology, CineGamma Software, FireWire Interface and New Black Sapphire Color:
This is an amazing camera. I purchased it for skateboarding with an Opteka death lens and let me tell you, im in love with this camera. So much customization and has AMAZING quality. Dont at all hesitate to purchase this camera
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Panasonic AG-DVX100B 3-CCD 24p/30p/60i Mini-DV Cinema Camcorder, NTSC, with CineSwitch Technology, CineGamma Software, FireWire Interface and New Black Sapphire Color:
This is my second DVX-100B. I just love it. Don't even hesitate.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- Movies/Short Films
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Panasonic AG-DVX100B 3-CCD 24p/30p/60i Mini-DV Cinema Camcorder, NTSC, with CineSwitch Technology, CineGamma Software, FireWire Interface and New Black Sapphire Color:
I'm a college video instructor and we use this camera for all of our student projects and live events. We have 8 of these on hand. This camera has great picture quality and is easy to use. I love the large viewfinder too. This camera is great for our students because it's still used by a lot of industry professionals.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- Movies/Short Films
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Panasonic AG-DVX100B 3-CCD 24p/30p/60i Mini-DV Cinema Camcorder, NTSC, with CineSwitch Technology, CineGamma Software, FireWire Interface and New Black Sapphire Color:
I have had this camera for a few years now and I love it. It's easy to use, reliable, and the image quality is good. For the price it's a good deal. I work for a TV station and use this camera to shoot short documentaries on my own.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Panasonic AG-DVX100B 3-CCD 24p/30p/60i Mini-DV Cinema Camcorder, NTSC, with CineSwitch Technology, CineGamma Software, FireWire Interface and New Black Sapphire Color:
As a professional videographer, I find the 100B to be very easy to use and am very satisfied with the video quality. I am thinking about buying another.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- Movies/Short Films
Comments about Panasonic AG-DVX100B 3-CCD 24p/30p/60i Mini-DV Cinema Camcorder, NTSC, with CineSwitch Technology, CineGamma Software, FireWire Interface and New Black Sapphire Color:
I love this camera. I did so much research and I finally found a camera that can do everything I need it to do and more. As soon as it came, I loaded it and began shooting. I didn't putting down the entire first day.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Panasonic AG-DVX100B 3-CCD 24p/30p/60i Mini-DV Cinema Camcorder, NTSC, with CineSwitch Technology, CineGamma Software, FireWire Interface and New Black Sapphire Color:
We use the DVX for a government access TV channel to record community events. It is a solid camera that always produces good TV quality standard def to tape video.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Feature rich
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Versitile
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
- Fair learning curve
- Focus not intuitive
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Panasonic AG-DVX100B 3-CCD 24p/30p/60i Mini-DV Cinema Camcorder, NTSC, with CineSwitch Technology, CineGamma Software, FireWire Interface and New Black Sapphire Color:
I LOVE this camcorder!! I am going to be using this to film a low budget feature film. I specifically the DVX100B for shooting at 24 frames per second mode (like film) and if you set up final cut pro correctly (using the 2:3:3:2 pull down) the footage is very comparable to a 16mm film camera. This camera is cram packed with features and is WAY more than I expected when I bought it. The XLR jacks on the camera capture really good sound using an external shotgun mike although I will probably use and EQ and compression on the audio in post. This camera can go full auto at the push of a button, it has 2 zebra striping modes to help you check your light levels for blowouts, and a ton of preset features to really fine tune your settings to specific environments and lighting. There are 6 programmable "scene" settings that allow you to store all of your location specific settings (for example "outdoor on a sunny day" vs."inside on a dark night".) and all this isn't even scratching the surface of all the options you have available with this camera. As far as the design and functionality, I have NO complaints. So what's bad about it? Well, I think the only complaint that I had was that there were so many features to learn how to use that I needed
"The DVX Book" to really explain to me how everything works. The acronyms for the settings in the menu aren't always self explanatory. For example, I had no idea that "OIS" stood for Optical Image Stabilization (yeah, it does that too...). You really need to print out a "cheat sheet" of the menu tree and read "The DVX Book" to really get a handle on the DVX. If you are stepping up to this camera from a consumer camcorder, you will spend a lot of time learning how to use this camera, but once you do you are going to be VERY happy if you want to get a 16mm color film camera result. Oh, and let's not forget that it not only shoots in 2 24fps modes (24p and 24ap) and it also shoots in NTSC 30fps and 60i. Yes, you can do at least 3 different types of slow motion and time lapse if you speed up settings in your NLE program. (All of this is explained in The DVX Book. The ONLY technical challenge I have had using the DVX is manual focusing. I would strongly recommend looking up "DVX focus chart" and download the file. It will save you hours of frustration. Bottom line? If you are looking for a 24p in the price range, this camera is worth it!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
Cons
- Poor In Low Light
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- Indoors/Low Light
- Travel
Comments about Panasonic AG-DVX100B 3-CCD 24p/30p/60i Mini-DV Cinema Camcorder, NTSC, with CineSwitch Technology, CineGamma Software, FireWire Interface and New Black Sapphire Color:
Very easy to use. Great value for the money. But sometimes white balance doesn't quite get the right color temp, you'll have to play with it a little. The IEEE port is very easily fried. I have 4 of this camera in the house, and only one of their port still working.
Pros
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
- Steep learning curve
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- Home Movies
- Movies/Short Films
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Panasonic AG-DVX100B 3-CCD 24p/30p/60i Mini-DV Cinema Camcorder, NTSC, with CineSwitch Technology, CineGamma Software, FireWire Interface and New Black Sapphire Color:
No intent to repeat what has already been said. This is simply great. Don't be lured by the HD trend...this camera is THE standard. Bottom line. It shoots great, looks great, and gives great quality.
Pros
- Easy to Use
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Panasonic AG-DVX100B 3-CCD 24p/30p/60i Mini-DV Cinema Camcorder, NTSC, with CineSwitch Technology, CineGamma Software, FireWire Interface and New Black Sapphire Color:
We use it for our morning announcements and important taping jobs. It's great.
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
- Limited Zoom
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- Home Movies
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Panasonic AG-DVX100B 3-CCD 24p/30p/60i Mini-DV Cinema Camcorder, NTSC, with CineSwitch Technology, CineGamma Software, FireWire Interface and New Black Sapphire Color:
I picked up this camera to use for all my freelance projects. So far, this camera has met all my expectations. I shoot a lot of music performances and I'm pleased with the results. The picture quality is excellent and the 24p mode is great if you want to achieve that cinematic look. I heard some complaints about it's use in low light scenarios, but in all the dive bars that I've filmed in, I have no complaints. My only complaint is the zoom is not incredibly powerful, but I'm also used to the camera that I use at work which has a macro zoom that I sometimes need to use when it is difficult to get close to an accident scene. The built in mic works well as long as you are monitoring the audio levels. I'm still working on obtaining an external shotgun mic for it and have yet to determine the quality difference between the two. I use final cut pro 7 to edit and all I needed to do was plug the firewire into the side and I was good to go. The customizable presets are a plus and easy to set up. I highly recommend this camera for anyone looking for a high quality camera at a decent price. It's not an HD camera, but in the area I live in, it will still be another couple of years before everyone moves to a HD standard.
Displaying reviews 1-20
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Media
Required item: Recording media is not included. Be prepared-always carry extra media.
- Price: $1.95
Batteries & Power Adapters
Always keep a spare battery handy so you won't get caught without power.
- Price: $99.95
Estimated arrival at B&H is 7-14 days. Your order will only be charged at time of shipment.
-
- Original: $99.95
- Save: $9.99
- Price: $89.96
Lenses & Lens Adapters
Capture your desired angle of view with a quality conversion lens.
- Price: $619.00
- Price: $753.00
This item is usually Drop Shipped from the MFR/Distributor within 7-10 days (subject to availability). Your order will be charged at the time of placing the order with the vendor. Item is non-cancelable or returnable.
External Microphones
Focus your sound with a high-quality microphone. Audio quality can make or break your video.
- Price: $176.90
Create a more snug fit and vibration isolation for a shotgun mic when it is mounted in the camcorder's mic clip. (B&H # SAROCS)
Tripod & Stationary Supports
Stabilize the your footage and eliminate handheld fatigue with the support you need.
-
- Original: $149.95
- Save: $14.99
- Price: $134.96
External Storage Recorders
Expand your camcorder's recording capabilities in the field.
- Price: $2,358.00
What's in the Box
- Battery Pack
- AC Adapter/Battery Charger
- AC Cable
- DC Cable
- Wireless Remote Control
- Viewfinder Eye Cup
- Microphone Holder
- Shoulder Strap
- 63-Minute Master Series Cassette
- 1 Year Parts and Labor Warranty
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