Canon DV camera?

[NeedToJump 0]

OK so I've been reading through the posts about only getting Sony cameras, but are any of you guys out there familiar with Canon cameras? I'm looking to start doing video and my friend can get Canon cameras at wholesale and tax free so I've been looking into them. It seems like the Canon Optura 200MC (http://www.canondv.com/optura200mc/index.html) is pretty close in size and features to the Sony PC cameras, although I'd probably have to make my own dbox. What do you guys think - is the Canon going to be OK or should I just shell out the $$$ and go with Sony? I love to know if anyone has experience with this Canon, how their cameras and service, etc. are.
Thanks!

Wind Tunnel and Skydiving Coach http://www.ariperelman.com

[Gadget 0]

I don't know the camera but i see in the specs that it has an Special 4-pin connector (based on IEEE 1394).You should check if it is completly compatible with a firewire port.Otherwise the spec's are impresive.

If people from Poland are called Poles, why aren't people from Holland called Holes???
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[chachi 0]

Well here's the thing, you take a crap shoot to save a couple hundred dollars. It's up to you but I try not to duplicate other's mistakes. Plus I am sure even saving taxes there is a better Sony option in the same price range. I looked at online price of 1299.00 US, if your buddy saves you $200, you could still get many better Sony options. Coupled with the things you gain. Lanc port, IEEE, Sony stabilization, proven quality, support.

~Chachi

[AndyMan 7]

It's up to you, but literally every time I hear of someone buying a camera that isn't Sony, they end up regretting it.

No, to answer one of your questions, I am not familiar with the Canon DV cameras. I've never seen any being jumped, nor have I ever used one myself. I do know some of their high end cameras have very good reputations in profesional circles.

If you do get it, make SURE you get a good extended waranty.

Make sure it has a LANC port. (probably doesn't)
Make sure it has Firewire. (probably doesn't).
Make sure it will fit whatever mounting system you plan to use.

_Am

__

You put the fun in "funnel" - craichead.

[pcalandra 0]

Hi Ari, I'm new to the forum but not to video in general or frefall videography.

I currently own a Canon Optura PI the first non-Sony camcorder I've ever owned. Take everyone elses advice and buy a Sony! It's not that the Canon is a peice of junk, they are good products, but only Sony is Sony and if I had it to do all over again I wouldn't have been such a cheap bastard [;)


Pat

[NeedToJump 0]

Thanks for the advice everyone. I've decided to get the Sony PC 101, I'll find another way to save some money for more jumps, maybe cut back on beer or something...
Thanks!

Wind Tunnel and Skydiving Coach http://www.ariperelman.com

[JayhawkJumper 0]

cut back on beer? That's crazy talk! Cut back on food or something thats not important.

[MarBrock 0]

I have a Canon ZR45MC. The nearest equivalent among current models is the ZR65MC. The ZR series is less expensive than the optura200mc you considered, but I'm happy with mine. I don't wear it on my head, however. I use a separate helmet camera (www.helmetcamera.com) similar to the SportCam advertised in Parachutist last month. This setup works well enough for me, but it's not suitable for professional camera work.

As you noted, the biggest problem with a non-Sony camera with a conventional video helmet is finding a mount for it. Most mounts are designed for Sony models.

[MarBrock 0]

Also, the ZR45MC has a LANC port, and I use a CamEye Sport without a hitch. The camera also has a 1394 (firewire) port, and I've had no problems with it either. I can't address the image stabilization issue, because I don't actually use the camcorder's optics in freefall.