Panasonic AG-HPX500 2/3" Shoulder Mounted P2 Camcorder
- Price: $11,690.00
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Remember the Essentials
Batteries, lenses, recording media, and a microphone are required, but not included; always carry plenty of power and extra media
The Panasonic AG-HPX500 is an affordable 2/3" CCD high definition camcorder designed for use with the P2 memory-based recording system. The camera truly shines in a wide variety of applications previously only possible on the highest-end Varicam. The unit is lightweight enough to take almost anywhere while still conforming to the shoulder-mounted form factor professionals require. Four P2 slots allow for up to 256 minutes of continuous recording.
Unlike similar priced camcorders, the AG-HPX500 can shoot a variety of standard definition and high definition resolutions, including 720p, 1080i and 1080p. All footage is recorded to the industry-standard DVCPRO, DVCPRO50, DVCPRO HD formats, which can be used in almost every professional editing suite. Features such as variable frame rates, 60p, chromatic aberration compensation (CAC), cine-like gamma, and many others provide limitless possibilities for dramatic, news and sports productions. No matter what the task the AG-HPX500 has it covered.
Note! This model does not come with a lens.
- P2 Flash Memory Recording Storage
- The AG-HPX500 is the first high definition ENG camcorder to feature P2 (professional plug-in) capability. P2 was developed as a recording system for professionals and is widely used amongst broadcasters and independent videographers. P2 products use no drive mechanisms, making the camera more resistant to impact, vibration and temperature change. Currently, there is a choice between 16GB and 32GB P2 cards. A 16GB card will record 16 minutes of the highest quality DVCPRO HD video, 40 minutes of 720/24pN video, as well as up to 64 minutes of standard definition DVCPRO25 or MiniDV. A 32GB card will double these run times.
- High-Quality 2/3" CCDs
- Borrowing technology from the highly acclaimed AG-SDX900, the AG-HPX500's advanced 2/3" progressive CCDs provide the kind of high sensitivity not available in comparably priced cameras. This advanced CCD combined with a newly developed digital signal processor (DSP) in combination with a very sophisticated offset spatial technology, can achieve unparalleled images while maintaining a high S/N ratio.
- Advanced Digital Signal Processor
- The AG-HPX500's advanced digital signal processor uses 14-bit A/D conversion and 19-bit inner processing to attain unprecedented accuracy. While the camera does not record 1080/60p, it is from this capture that all other signals are made, which includes both 1080/24p and 1080/30p. The DSP performs a variety of adjustments, including eight types of gamma settings, for each of the R, G and B channels. It also converts the signals to HD or SD format. With performance equivalent to processors used in many higher-end HD cameras, the AG-HPX500 delivers beautiful images in all video formats regardless of resolution.
- DVCPRO HD Codec
- Thanks to a low compression ratio at a bit rate of 100 Mbps (1080/59.94i, 720/59.94p) along with the easy-to-edit intraframe compression system, DVCPRO HD is suitable for recording fast-moving subjects with no motion artifacts whatsoever, making it ideal for slow-motion capture. The 4:2:2 sampling rate minimizes jaggies at chroma edges and is advantageous in image compositing. Sound quality is excellent as well, thanks to uncompressed 16-bit, 4-channel digital audio recording capability.
- Professional Camera Features
- The camera features almost every conceivable input, including HD-SDI. Serial Digital Interface (SDI) allows users to output and view digital video without any digital to analog conversion. This can be used for both recording and display purposes, providing the highest quality signal possible. The standard 2/3" bayonet mount allows cinematographers to change lenses depending on budget and application.
- Chromatic Aberration Compensation
- Chromatic aberration (CA) usually appears as a hard pink glow at and around high contrast areas and lines. The phenomenon often results from imperfections in the camera lens' optics. While using compatible lenses, the AG-HPX500 can internally correct for chromatic aberration distortion through its sophisticated CAC technology.
- Super Reliable Work Flow Process
- The P2 card is a new solid state recording media that Panasonic developed to bridge the gap between information technology and professional video. About the same size as a PC card, the P2 card stores large amounts of video and audio data in MXF-format files. This solid state memory is free of tape related problems such as drop-outs. It provides superior resistance to impact, vibration, and temperature changes. And it is impossible to over-write important data. Unlike tape there is no need to fast-forward or rewind to reach selected points of video. The user selects a thumbnail image and the video clip can be viewed right away. Similarly, once the record button is pressed recording starts immediately.
| Signal System |
1080/60i, 30p, 24p 1080/50i, 25p 720/60p, 30p, 24p 720/50p, 25p 720pN Variable Frame Rates 60 Hz mode: 12, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 30, 32, 36, 48, 60 fps 50 Hz mode: 12, 18, 20, 23, 25, 27, 30, 32, 37, 48, 50 fps NTSC: 480/60i, 30p, 24p PAL: 576/50i, 25p |
| Image Device | 2/3" 3CCD |
| Lens | None |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | Not Specified By Manufacturer |
| Horizontal Resolution | 1080 Lines |
| Sensitivity | F10 at 2000 lux |
| Minimum Illumination | Not Specified By Manufacturer |
| Vertical Smear | Not Specified By Manufacturer |
| Built-in Filters | ND: Clear, 1/4, 1/16, 1/64 |
| LCD Monitor | 3.5" |
| Viewfinder | 1.5" CRT B/W, NTSC/PAL Switchable |
| Scan Matching |
Yes Different Ranges for Different Record Modes |
| Memory Card Slot |
SD Memory Cards for Scene-File Sharing 4 P2 Card Slots for Video |
| Shutter Speed Range | 1/12 to 1/2000 sec (Range depends on Record Mode) |
| Gain Selection | 0-18 dB Range |
| VTR | |
|---|---|
| Tape Format | Not Applicable |
| Tape Speed | Not Applicable |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | Not Specified By Manufacturer |
| Maximum Recording Time | Not Applicable |
| Audio | |
|---|---|
| Audio Dynamic Range | Not Specified By Manufacturer |
| Audio Signal Format | 16 bit/48kHz Four Channels |
| Audio Frequency Response | 20Hz to 20kHz |
| Signal to Noise Ratio | Not Specified By Manufacturer |
| General | |
|---|---|
| Input and Output Connectors |
Composite: BNC (x1 Output) Component: D4 Terminal (x1 Output) SDI/HD-SDI: BNC (x1 Output) Timecode: BNC (x1 Input, x1 Output) FireWire: 6-Pin DC Power: XLR (x1 Input, x1 Output) Remote: 10-Pin Lens: 12-Pin EVF: 20-Pin USB 2.0: 4-Pin (Type-B) Microphone: XLRx2 (x1 Input) Analog Audio: XLRx2 (x1 Input) Line Out: Pin Jack Headphone: 3.5mm Stereo Mini Jack |
| Power Requirements | 12 VDC (11-17V) |
| Power Consumption | 23W |
| Operating Temperature | 32-104°F (0-40°C) |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 5.6 x 10.4 x 12.6" (14 x 26.1 x 31.8 cm) |
| Weight | 8.4 lb (3.8 kg) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 10 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
100%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Great picture quality (9)
- Great features (7)
- Great sound (6)
- Versatile (5)
- Comfortable to operate (4)
Cons
Best Uses
- Movies/short films (7)
- Documentaries (5)
- Outdoor events / games (4)
- HD shooting (3)
- Sports (3)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Professional (5), Pro videographer (4)
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 10 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-10
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
Comments about Panasonic AG-HPX500 2/3" Shoulder Mounted P2 Camcorder:
This camera packs a huge HD bang for the buck. It has features previously only available in a higher price point camcorder. Why pay almost as much for a less ergonomic camera that doesn't have the pro features this camera has. This camera is versatile and perfect for broadcast video feature, news, DVD and web production.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
- No image stabilization
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
Comments about Panasonic AG-HPX500 2/3" Shoulder Mounted P2 Camcorder:
I waited for Panasonic to come out with a P2, broadcast quality camera and it was the best decision I ever made. The 20+ formats got me foreign clients who need PAL, domestics who want NTSC, HD, SD and everything in between. This camera does it all and more. I've never lost a byte on the P2s in more than two years and the MXF workflow is fast and manageable. It even works on the same DS20/SoloDV Miller tripod as my XL1s. Add a great lens and you'll never regret it.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Comfortable to Operate
- Great Features
- SDI
- Simple Controls
- Slow motion
Cons
- Poor menu
- Small audio level meter
- Weak viewfinder
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- Movies/Short Films
Comments about Panasonic AG-HPX500 2/3" Shoulder Mounted P2 Camcorder:
Quite cheap but very good camcorder for this price. I worked before with procamcorders like AJ-D700, AJ-SDX900, DSR450WSL, PDW-530 XDCAM and for me the worst thing of HPX500 is very, very weak viewfinder... It has also poor menu and too small audio level meter what is important when you work with sound engineer - it could be two switchable items on one LCD display: video preview and "normal" audio level meter with time code (like in DSR-450). For professionals HPX2000 is much better in usage but it costs twice or more (the main reason I did not buy it) and has no SDI. If you do not have P2 gear SDI is sometimes very useful to copy material on broadcast recorders (I do it quite often). Anyway I like my HPX500 and is really worth to buy!!!
Pros
- Comfortable to Operate
- Durable
- Great Features
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- No drop outs
- No heads
- No moving parts
- Simple Controls
- Versatile
- Very power efficient
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- Drama vignettes
- HD Shooting
- Sports Corporate Video
Comments about Panasonic AG-HPX500 2/3" Shoulder Mounted P2 Camcorder:
Great camera. Love the P2 work flow. Lots of configurations for HD and SD. Bought last Jan. 08. Very power efficient. Best features: No moving parts, No heads to wear out, No such thing as drop-outs, no heads to clog or clean. Very awesome.
I have a fuji wide angle lens on the camera, and love to do hand held at waist level with the LCD screen out. Very steadi-cam like when shooting this way.
Pros
- Great Features
- Great Picture Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
Comments about Panasonic AG-HPX500 2/3" Shoulder Mounted P2 Camcorder:
So far we are very happy with the HPX500. Execellent picture quality. The P2 workflow requires a whole new approach when it comes to ingesting, logging, etc.
Pros
- Durable
- Great Features
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
Cons
Best Uses
- Special Events
- Sports
Comments about Panasonic AG-HPX500 2/3" Shoulder Mounted P2 Camcorder:
Action sports in Reno/Tahoe area.
Cannot break it and the P2 card system allows unprecedented rough handling in outdoor weather. Makes HDV tape look very shabby - can never go back to HDV.
Its still a big camera and not as easy to use as a smaller camera. Extra P2 cards are over priced in my opinion - but they don't wear out!
Worst feature is Japanese translated manual!
Pros
- Comfortable to Operate
- Great Features
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Movies/Short Films
- Music Videos
- Special Events
Comments about Panasonic AG-HPX500 2/3" Shoulder Mounted P2 Camcorder:
I shoot mostly films and music videos and I have to say that this is one amazing camera. Tons of professional features, easy to use and if you put some nice primes on it the picture will blow your mind. Long battery life. Great for the price.
Pros
- Great Features
- Great Picture Quality
- Versatile
Cons
- Viewfinder weak
Best Uses
- Movies/Short Films
- Special Events
- Sports
- Weddings
Comments about Panasonic AG-HPX500 2/3" Shoulder Mounted P2 Camcorder:
I've used this camera for ENG work at my job, though it could be used for just about anything from events to commercial production to filmmaking.
Great HD picture quality shooting to P2 cards.
Great price. $20k for a full package is an unbelievable deal.
Easy to use for anyone who has handled a larger camera or moving up from the HVX200.
Works superb in low light.
My only knock is that the viewfinder is weak compared to other cameras in this range.
- How long have you owned it:
- One-to-three months
Pros
- Comfortable to Operate
- Durable
- Great Features
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Simple Controls
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Movies/Short Films
- Special Events
- Sports
Comments about Panasonic AG-HPX500 2/3" Shoulder Mounted P2 Camcorder:
Great camera but make sure it has the e-prom update for the 5600 white balance pre-set. The 5600k white balance pre-set is very blue and green. There is talk about it on the forums and Panasonic has a fix. It doesn't effect the manual AWB modes.
The scene file wheel (like the HVX200) is great to have on a pro camera.
- How long have you owned it:
- A month or less
- Similar:
- HVX200
Pros
- Great Picture Quality
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Movies/Short Films
Comments about Panasonic AG-HPX500 2/3" Shoulder Mounted P2 Camcorder:
Good quality, in my opinion one of the best products on the market.
Excellent value for money. Perfect for professional productions.
- How long have you owned it:
- A month or less
Displaying reviews 1-10
- Brochure (PDF 3.5mb)
- Operating Instructions (PDF 11.6mb)
Media
Required item: Recording media is not included. Be prepared-always carry extra media.
- Price: $425.00
Lenses & Lens Adapters
Required item: A lens is not included. Capture the right view in crisp detail and brilliant color.
- Price: $7,499.95
Estimated arrival at B&H is 7-14 days. Your order will only be charged at time of shipment.
Batteries & Power Adapters
Required item: Batteries are not included. Keep plenty of batteries handy so you won't get caught without power.
- Price: $399.95
External Microphones
Required item: Focus your sound with a high-quality microphone. Audio quality can make or break your video.
- Price: $299.95
Bags & Cases
Carry, organize and protect your investment with quick access to your gear.
- Price: $279.00
- Instant Savings: -$20.00 Offer ends FEB 29 '12
- You Pay: $259.00
Tripod & Stationary Supports
Stabilize the your footage and eliminate handheld fatigue with the support you need.
- Price: $524.95
- Price: $415.00
Allows for quick tripod mounting and unmounting.
What's in the Box
- 1.5" B/W Viewfinder
- Component Video Cable
- Shoulder Strap
- P2 Card Software Driver (CD-ROM)
- 1-Year Warranty + 4-Year Extended Warranty w/Registration
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