Panasonic AG-HPX300 P2HD Camcorder
The Panasonic AG-HPX300 is a 1/3" CMOS camera featuring full resolution 1920x1080 chips. The camera's ENG frame comes equipped with a Fujinon 17x lens, making it the most affordable full-sized shoulder mounted camera available. The HPX300 has a feature-set including timecode, genlock and HD-SDI, which is usually found only on more expensive cameras. More importantly, the HPX300 can record Panasonic's premiere recording format, AVC-Intra. When shooting in AVC-Intra mode the camera has the ability to shoot full-raster 1080p footage at 10-bit 4:2:2 color, something unheard of at this price-point.
- AVC-Intra
- AVC-Intra uses the popular H.264/AVC codec, making it twice as efficient as DVCPRO HD at comparable bitrates. At 50mbps version of AVC-Intra will perform at the same quality as DVCPRO HD at 100mbps, allowing users to shoot for twice the duration per P2 card. If cranked up to 100mbps, the format performs beautifully with a full-raster 10-bit 4:2:2 based color system, making it the superior codec at its price-point.
- "3MOS" 2.2 MegaPixel Sensors
- By using three high density "3MOS" CMOS sensors the camera boasts 2.2 megapixels, making it ideal for AVC-Intra's full-raster capability. Footage jumps off the screen with crystal clarity while still maintaining the Panasonic "look" we've come to know and love.
- 20-Bit Digital Signal Processor
- The highly sophisticated 20-bit DSP found on the AG-HPX300 renders gamma and detail with superb accuracy. Most notably, the processor consumes very little power for maximum efficiency resulting in longer battery life.
- High Definition Viewfinder and LCD
- Both a high definition viewfinder and LCD make focusing on the HPX300 a breeze. Gone are the days of relying solely on focus-assist, both the viewfinder and the LCD provide ample resolution to ensure you get the sharpest image possible.
- Durable ENG-Style Frame
- A first at this price point, this high definition ENG-style camera looks and feels as durable as any other on the market today. All the buttons are positioned in the proper place making it well suited for news gathering, sports and event coverage. The almost 50/50 weight distribution is extremely comfortable when shoulder mounted during long shoots.
- DVCPRO HD Legacy Support
- If your production calls for using the tried and true DVCPRO format, have no fear. The HPX300 comes with all the settings users have come to know and love on the HVX200 and HPX170, including DVCPRO 25, DVCPRO 50 and DVCPRO HD (100) in both standard and high definition. At DVCPRO HD, users can shoot 720p at multiple frame rates, along with 1080/60i and 1080/24p or 30p.
- Interchangeable CAC Lens
- The high quality Fujinon 17x lens features Chromatic Aberration Correction (CAC) technology. Chromatic aberration 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-HPX300 can internally correct for chromatic aberration distortion through its sophisticated CAC technology
- Cine Gamma Functions
- Drawing on technology developed for the iconic VariCam and now used for the entire line of P2HD cameras, Panasonic has equipped the AG-HPX300 with advanced gamma functions that address eight different shooting scenarios. Included are the Cine-Like Gamma, which gives recordings the characteristic warm tone of film recordings, and a cooler, harder-edge News Gamma that's designed especially for news gathering.
- Dynamic Range Stretch (DRS)
- The Dynamic Range Stretch technology (DRS) makes it easier to preserve detail in both highlight and shadows without losing color information on either side of the spectrum. This can be extremely useful when shooting indoors with brightly lit windows.
- 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's impossible to overwrite important data. Unlike tape, there's no need to fast-forward or rewind; 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 |
AVC-Intra 100, AVC-Intra 50, DVCPRO HD, DVCPRO 50, DVCPRO/DV 1080/59.94i, 1080/29.97p, 1080/29.97pN, 1080/23.98p, 1080/23.98pA, 1080/23.98pN, 720/59.94p, 720/29.97p, 720/29.97pN, 720/23.98p, 720/23.98pN, 480/59.94i, 480/29.97p, 480/23.98p, 480/23.98pA |
| Image Device | 1/3" Interline Transfer "3MOS" Chips |
| Lens | Fujinon 1/3" Bayonet Mount (17x Optical) |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | Not Specified By Manufacturer |
| Horizontal Resolution | >1000 TV Lines (Center) |
| Sensitivity | F/1.6 (Shutter 1/30) |
| Minimum Illumination | 0.8 lux |
| Vertical Smear | Not Applicable |
| Built-in Filters | ND: Clear, 1/4, 1/16, 1/64 |
| LCD Monitor | 3.2" Widescreen Color LCD (921,000 Pixels) |
| Viewfinder | LCOS Color Viewfinder (1.22 MegaPixels) |
| Scan Matching |
Yes Different Ranges for Different Record Modes |
| Memory Card Slot |
SD Memory Cards for Scene-File Sharing 2 P2 Card Slots for Video |
| Shutter Speed Range | 1/6 to 1/2000 sec (Range depends on Record Mode) |
| Gain Selection | 0-24dB 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 4-Channels |
| Audio Frequency Response | 20Hz to 20kHz |
| Signal to Noise Ratio | Not Specified By Manufacturer |
| General | |
|---|---|
| Input and Output Connectors |
Composite: BNC (x1 Output) HD/SD-SDI: BNC (x2 Output) Mic/Audio: XLR, 3-Pin Female (x2 Input, Ch1/Ch2) Audio Out: Pin Jack (x2 Output, Ch1/Ch2) Earphone: 3.5mm Stereo Mini Jack (x1 Output) Genlock: BNC (x1 Input) Timecode: BNC (x1 Input, x1 Output) FireWire: 6-Pin (x1 Input/Output) USB: USB2.0 (x1 Input/Output) DC Power: XLR 4-Pin (x1 Input, x1 Output) Remote: 10-Pin Lens: 12-Pin USB 2.0: Type-B 4-Pin (Host/Device) |
| Power Requirements | 12VDC (11-17V) |
| Power Consumption | 18W |
| Operating Temperature | 32-104°F (0-40°C) |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 6.7 x 6.9 x 21.6" (24.6 x 25.1 x 54.9cm) |
| Weight |
With Lens 11 lbs (5kg) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 10 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
89%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Great picture quality (7)
- Comfortable to operate (6)
- Easy to use (4)
- Large clear LCD (4)
- Versatile (4)
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries (6)
- HD shooting (6)
- Movies/short films (6)
- Travel (3)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Pro videographer (8)
Most Liked Positive Review
A great camera with room to grow
The HPX300 has four very compelling features at its price-point that you won't find in cameras in its range. They are:
1. Full-raster 1080p imaging sensors
2. The AVD-Intra 1...Read complete review
The HPX300 has four very compelling features at its price-point that you won't find in cameras in its range. They are:
1. Full-raster 1080p imaging sensors
2. The AVD-Intra 100 codec with 4:2:2 colorspace.
3. An excellent Fujinon ENG-style lens.
4. A nicely balanced shoulder mount format.
The 300 is truly a professional grade camera and
can find itself readily usable as either a
principle or B-roll camera. Since it supports
genlock (and other time syncs) it can be used
on commercial shoots easily.
The 300 also has a wireless receiver slot that
can host Lectrosonics (and similar) wireless
receivers. This allows the DP to capture 4
simultaneous audio feeds to the 300.
The 300 also has many handy switches and settings
that allow both the lens and automated functions
to be controlled by the videographer.
There are two problems with this camera, however.
1. The Rolling Shutter / Skew on the 3MOS sensors
may be an issue for some "run and gun" style
shooting.
2. Low-light sensitivity of this camera is still
lacking and you may need to augment this camera
with a secondary rig that does low-light better
(5D MK-2 for example).
All-in-all, the is a remarkable camera at a
roughly 8K price-point.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Too much whiz and not enough bang
I had high hopes for the HPX-300, but after a few months of use I've become disappointed with the camera. I use the camera mostly in ENG situations, however they are situations in...Read complete review
I had high hopes for the HPX-300, but after a few months of use I've become disappointed with the camera. I use the camera mostly in ENG situations, however they are situations in which I must use the available light. When shooting in low-light I find that the camera produces excess amounts of noise in the 1080P image. Even in day-light I find the amount of noise to be high. To compensate, it has been recommended that you turn down the detail level, this does help with the noise. However, with the detail level turned down I find that the image is never quite sharp, not out of focus, but not sharp, the image feels soft. Over all I don't feel that the HPX-300 is a great camera, I've never been happy with the quality of the image, it's either too sharp or too noisy, never perfect.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 10 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-10
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good in Low Light
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
Comments about Panasonic AG-HPX300 P2HD Camcorder:
I use this equipment in the productions of my company
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Great Picture Quality
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
- Tripod plate is expensive
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Panasonic AG-HPX300 P2HD Camcorder:
I've used the HPX300 for a month now for Television production which includes TV Shows, documentaries and commercials in all kinds of operating environments. It has far exceeded my expectations. Well balanced and comfortable, and a great Full Raster 1920x1080 image.
Pros
- AVC-Intra
- Easy to Use
- Great Picture Quality
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Movies/Short Films
Comments about Panasonic AG-HPX300 P2HD Camcorder:
An outstanding camera and hands down...the best in it's class. AVC-Intra100 and full raster 1920x1080 pixel for pixel resolution. 24P and variable frame rate recording. Well balanced on the shoulder and crisp/clear viewfinder and LCD monitor.
Pros
- Comfortable to Operate
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
- Poor In Low Light
- Rolling Shutter Skew
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Movies/Short Films
Comments about Panasonic AG-HPX300 P2HD Camcorder:
The HPX300 has four very compelling features at its price-point that you won't find in cameras in its range. They are:
1. Full-raster 1080p imaging sensors
2. The AVD-Intra 100 codec with 4:2:2 colorspace.
3. An excellent Fujinon ENG-style lens.
4. A nicely balanced shoulder mount format.
The 300 is truly a professional grade camera and
can find itself readily usable as either a
principle or B-roll camera. Since it supports
genlock (and other time syncs) it can be used
on commercial shoots easily.
The 300 also has a wireless receiver slot that
can host Lectrosonics (and similar) wireless
receivers. This allows the DP to capture 4
simultaneous audio feeds to the 300.
The 300 also has many handy switches and settings
that allow both the lens and automated functions
to be controlled by the videographer.
There are two problems with this camera, however.
1. The Rolling Shutter / Skew on the 3MOS sensors
may be an issue for some "run and gun" style
shooting.
2. Low-light sensitivity of this camera is still
lacking and you may need to augment this camera
with a secondary rig that does low-light better
(5D MK-2 for example).
All-in-all, the is a remarkable camera at a
roughly 8K price-point.
Pros
- Comfortable to Operate
- Easy to Use
- Great Picture Quality
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
- No image stabilization
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
Comments about Panasonic AG-HPX300 P2HD Camcorder:
I was uncertain about getting this camera, but I am glad i got it. Great images and if you need shallow DOF the Letus relay with a DOF adapter and a quality lens will surprise you with great footage. AVC-Intra is REALLY good. Great for keying and color correction without banding issues. Transferring footage is fast and works with all 3 major NLE programs. Not the best in low light but not bad either. If you know how to light correctly this will capture anything you need without problem. I was really close to getting a Sony PMW350K (and it is a great cam also), but this is doing what I need and it is much cheaper... that is w/o the extras. LOL. B&H rocks as well!
Pros
- Comfortable to Operate
- Durable
- Great Features
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Simple Controls
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Travel
Comments about Panasonic AG-HPX300 P2HD Camcorder:
I'm giving this camera five stars. For the money, it just can't be beat. A true shoulder mount, AVC-Intra codec, full-raster 1920x1080, four channels of audio, Fujinon lens, low power consumption, and the list goes on.
Sure, I'd like to have bigger chips and a better lens, but then I probably wouldn't be able to afford it.
Migrating from palm-sized cams (Sony V1U, Canon XHA1), this camera is a natural upgrade into pro-level acquisition.
Plus, the recent drop in price of P2 media (E-series) made this purchase even sweeter. Goodbye tapes.
This is a great camera. And will probably buy another this year.
Pros
- Comfortable to Operate
- Versatile
Cons
- High image noise
- Inadequate Features
- Poor low-light image
Best Uses
Comments about Panasonic AG-HPX300 P2HD Camcorder:
I had high hopes for the HPX-300, but after a few months of use I've become disappointed with the camera. I use the camera mostly in ENG situations, however they are situations in which I must use the available light. When shooting in low-light I find that the camera produces excess amounts of noise in the 1080P image. Even in day-light I find the amount of noise to be high. To compensate, it has been recommended that you turn down the detail level, this does help with the noise. However, with the detail level turned down I find that the image is never quite sharp, not out of focus, but not sharp, the image feels soft. Over all I don't feel that the HPX-300 is a great camera, I've never been happy with the quality of the image, it's either too sharp or too noisy, never perfect.
Pros
- Comfortable to Operate
- Great Features
- Great Picture Quality
- Simple Controls
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
Comments about Panasonic AG-HPX300 P2HD Camcorder:
I produce corporate video, broadcast, Doc's, and TV comercials and Music videos. Very pleased with the picture quality, AVC 100 better then DVCHD, camera is a great buy, and we are going to get another in a month or two. See samples at VIMO - Dave Barnes.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
- Movies/Short Films
Comments about Panasonic AG-HPX300 P2HD Camcorder:
Panasonic did a great job and the marketing dept. as well: add the Bauer batteries, charger, P2 cards and P2 reader and your bill weight will be bigger with other 2-3k from you're pocket. It would had been the perfect camera if they would had put the 1/2 CMOS.
It's better than the EX1/EX3 when we're talking about DVCPROHD, AVCIntra, 4:2:2 and the form factor. At all other chapters, EX1/EX3 it's a winner
Pros
- Comfortable to Operate
- Durable
- Great Features
- Great Picture Quality
- Simple Controls
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Movies/Short Films
Comments about Panasonic AG-HPX300 P2HD Camcorder:
Just Look At The Lens Alone How Much It Would Be To Buy....I Rest My Case.
Displaying reviews 1-10
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
Media
Recording media is not included. Be prepared-always carry extra media.
- Price: $349.00
External Microphones
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: $219.95
- Instant Savings: -$40.00 Offer ends MAR 31 '12
- You Pay: $179.95
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
- Fujinon Lens
- Front Lens Cap
- Rear Lens Cap
- Zoom Lever
- Lens Connector Cap
- Lens Hood
- Lens Hood Cap
- Eye Cup
- Shoulder Belt
- Front Audio Level Knob (with Screw)
- Mount Cap
- BNC Connector Cap
- XLR Connector Cap
- P2 Card Software Driver (CD-ROM)
- 1-Year Warranty (Increased to 5-Year Warranty Once Camera is Registered with Panasonic Broadcast)
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