I am going to be upgrading from my Cannon GL2, and I would like some opinions on these cameras if you have used them. I have narrowed the search to these 4 cameras, any input is appreciated. Cannon XH A1 Cannon XF 105 Sony HDR AX2000 Sony HXR NX5U
Though I have only used the Sony AX2000, here is my opinion after looking at the specs Tom. Cannon XHA1. Pros 20x zoom and price for HD. Cons uses tapes and not very good in low light. A 6 Lux rating is not real good. Canon XF 105 Haven't heard a lot about this camera, but the 4.5 Lux rating still isn't the best and the 10x zoom would have you pounding your head against the tree at times. Sony AX2000 This is the camera that Todd and Justin use, as well as Johnny and Dustin. I have used Johnny's camera a lot and absolutely love it. The 1.5 Lux rating, the 20x zoom and the fact that it writes to SD cards are all huge pluses. Sony NX5U Just running through the specs, it looks like a great camera. Great 1.5 Lux rating as well as the 20X zoom and writes to SD. Hopefully someone else on here can chip in and give some thoughts on this camera. It looks like a great option. If I was going to pick between these cameras, I would definitely go with the AX2000. Though, the NX5U looks very nice as well. Hope that helps Tom!
I have used the AX2000 extensively so I will echo Dan's thoughts on that camera. It does phenomenally well in low light, and the three 1/'3" CMOS sensors offers great color reproduction as well. Plus, I love the ergonomics of it, although it's similar with the NX5U. I would stay away from the XH A1, simply because it is 2011. Who uses tapes anymore? The XF105 is going to be a real popular camera and is new for 2011, but if given the choice I would take the AX2000. If price is not an option then go with the NX5U, it's the overall better camera on all fronts.
I have just acquired my NX5U and have really fallen in love with it. I've used a lot of tape based cameras that were OK, but none to equal the overall simplicity and quality of this camera. The tapeless idea appealed to me and I am not sorry. It is so simple and quick. For the additional cost, you will be ahead in the long run just in what you save in tapes. I highly recommend getting the FMU128 external memory. B&H has a kit that includes the FMU at a pretty good savings.
This is right on. The Sony's are better in low light. Also, the Canon XHA1 has an inferior view finder that is harder to determine whether you are in focus...I had trouble with this camera and focusing it well at first. I would go with the NX5U first and the AX2000 a close second. It just depends on how much you want to spend.
Thanks for all of the info. I have been going back and forth on this. I think I have finally decided and I am going to order the AX2000 tomorrow. I was going to get the NX5U but I herd the shotgun mic on there was not as good as what I can buy for the AX2000 and spend about the same.
