When choosing an HD camera to purchase, one of the most important decisions is determining the correct file format to utilize, since a camera’s file format will determine how footage is captured, transferred to a computer, edited, and finally exported.
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Kevin Fulda and Jake Jorgovan of Rabbit Hole Recording break down video gear.
AVCHD
AVCHD is a relatively new file format on the market, and it is offers unrivaled quality at an affordable price.
Cameras that shoot AVCHD file formats do not record on to video tapes like conventional video cameras. Instead, the cameras film on SD cards similar to what consumer digital cameras use. Up to three hours of footage can be recorded onto each 32GB SD card. The video is then transferred through a USB cable onto the editing computer, where it is imported into the video editing software.
While the quality and media storage of AVCHD is unbeatable, you’ll need to have a decent amount of hard drive space and a computer with at least a dual core processor.
PANASONIC
HMC150
LIST PRICE: $3,699.95
Includes separate Focus Ring/Iris Ring and Zoom Ring
Shoots AVCHD File format (1080p, 720p)
Media Storage: SD Card
Additional manual controls
Built in XLR Inputs with Phantom Power
Features Built in ND Filters
1/3″ 3CCD Imaging System
PANASONIC
HMC40
LIST PRICE: $1,995.00
Only has one ring that can be set to focus, zoom or iris
Shoots AVCHD file format (1080p, 720p)
Media Storage: SD Card
Less manual controls
Must purchase audio adapter for XLR Inputs
Touch Screen LCD
1/4” 3MOS Imaging System
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