I'm considering taking advantage of the $2k rebate on the HPX500, but wanted to get some insight into a good lens choice. From what I've read in the forum, don't skimp on the lens, seems to be a common theme.

For those that have a 500, what would you guys recommend? The budget is limited (isn't it always?), so that's a factor.

I primarily want to continue to shoot indie short films, docu's, features...but I realize that commercials, training videos, company intros, etc will probably be what pays for the new camera.

Any other key components that should be part of the HPX500 initial purchase package?

Thanks in advance

If you're going to use this camera on a tripod (and I sincerely hope you do!) then you'll also want to consider a remote zoom control / record trigger, mounted on the tripod's pan handle.

Get two pan handles so you can also mount a remote focus controller (zoom / rec on the left, focus control on the right). If you're going to be shooting handheld most of the time then this probably isn't a big deal. But I'd say it's pretty much mandatory for tripods.

While I have remote zoom/focus controllers, I'd say they're not manadatory - just really comfy when shooting long time on sticks. I also find the focus VERY touchy. You can always get just as good (or better) w/o controllers, for shorter durations.

Spend your coin on the best lens & fluid head you can afford. Everything else gets prioritized after those. (And the rest can be a LONG list!)

Thanks for the insight. Seems like the best bang for the buck in to start with a good HD lens. The choices seems endless, but I've heard that Panny recommends a few that tend to work better. I can't find that list on the Panasonic site.

I got the KJ13x6BKRS from Samy's Camera for an unmentionable price. No doubler, but zooms nice.

Check out the footage: http://www.alan-curtis.com/video/Dunton

Randy,

Check out this stuff from Nick Harris:

http://dvinfo.net/conf/showthread.php?p=889067#post889067

I'm not sure which Fujinon lens he's using (ask him) but it's the best I've seen off the 500 with a Fuji lens. (not that Fuji doesn't make good glass, almost all the clips I've seen from other shooters have had Canon glass).

Here is a comparison between a broadcast Canon SD lens and an Angenieux HD lens on the same HPX500:

http://www.vimeo.com/1244031

Derek,

I've quoted a Canon KJ13X6 KRS at Samy's and the price is 25% less than any other place I quoted before. Which makes me suspicious and hopeful at the same time.
Right now with the rebate, 3 32gig cards and a battery package the 500 get to less than 25K.
Amazing for this quality camera.