Hi,

I've been considering the benefits of having a second camera for a backup. I researched everything from the HD1/HD10's to the HV20's from Canon and the FX7's from Sony.

The conclusion is that the only suitable "B" camera is another HD100. The main reason being that I need all my accessories to work with the second camera i.e. IDX battery system, X-less XLR & camera light.

The problem is the high cost of another HD100.

What are you guys using for backup cameras?

Scott,

I've ordered the HV20 to use as a chaep "b" camera to my HD 100a. It seems to me the only cheap HDV camera that has a similar look because it shoots 24p. I looked at the HD 7 and I was concerned about having to convert .tod files among the fact that on auto settings the colors really went very red plus no 24p at a $200 to $300 more cost.

I anticipate some definite drawbacks. Like: Need an audio adaptor for XLR, lens hood, and a good monitor for focus.

Overall, I'm a little concerned that it lacks the latitude of the HD 100. Seems everyone is rating it at ASA 120 w/o a lense adaptor vs. I rate HD 100a at asa 325. I'll have to see I far I can push the HV20.

But at $1100, I feel the HV20 is worth a try. After all that camera is already so popular that if I can't make it work I know I would have no problem selling it.

I'll let you know how it works next week.

Cheers.

The other consideration is editing software.

I'm on FCP5, so I don't have the open timeline to mix & match footage. Not that I think it would look that good mixing 720p & 1080i footage but I would need the $500 upgrade if I went that route.