FYI, just got off the phone with them and they should be releasing this to dealers on the second or third week of August. This one looks like more of a pro-cam type, a perfect fit with maximum manuverability for the hands and Camera parts.


http://www.petrolbags.com/products/Cam_Protection_I/PRC-EX1/PRC-EX1.htm

Looking at the opening for the lens part, It kinda of useless if the rain and wind is blowing towards you.

True but the stuff I shoot I make sure my back is to the wind if rain is involved as the lens is still exposed with all rainslickers and waterdrops all over the lens in SD looked bad enough let alone in HD unless that is a look your after...Like Storm chasing. Most of the big pro raincovers have the larg opening but over hang the lens hood just enough.

I wonder which one offers better protection, the Petrol or the Portabrace?

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/541079-REG/Porta_Brace_RS_EX1_RS_EX1_Mini_DV_Rain_Slicker.html

I've been waiting for the Petrol for a while but I will be doing some shooting on the coast in the winter, probably with headwinds at time, and the Portabrace looks like it might be more snug, I dunno.

I think the Kata rc-15 is a better option. I've tried the Portabrace on my old XHA1, it took at least 5mins to get it on, by the time your camera would be swimming in water. and the rc-15 covers every thing and at the same time have room for both hands...

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/367589-REG/Kata_KT_VA_801_15_RC_15_Compact_Rain_Cover.html

Looks like it might!

I have the Kata for my VX2000 and it works great! However with the EX1 I rely on the LCD and not the EVF...I know with my VX2000 and the Kata I can not get both hands inside nor can I use the LCD, but it does work great for overall protection and use of the EVF.

Hmmm... does anyone know from experience whether you can use the LCD with the Kata?

Also, I'm wondering about camera heat. I accidently left my camera "on" the other day and put it in my zipped up carrying bag. A couple hours later, not knowing I left the camera "on", I picked it up and it was freakin' hot! I mean, surprisingly hot... worried me. Is that normal? How well do they do in full covers while shooting in regards to the camera heat produced?

Also, I'm wondering about camera heat. I accidently left my camera "on" the other day and put it in my zipped up carrying bag. A couple hours later, not knowing I left the camera "on", I picked it up and it was freakin' hot! I mean, surprisingly hot... worried me. Is that normal? How well do they do in full covers while shooting in regards to the camera heat produced?

Yeah... I almost think the battery drainage is a blessing, making us to remove it each time we put our EX1's away. Especially with this pathetic power on/off switch!

Sony now have a fix for the battery draining problem. Have had my camera modified and it seems OK.

Geoff

Sony now have a fix for the battery draining problem. Have had my camera modified and it seems OK.

Geoff

Yes, I know - but it's still said to take some 5 mins overnight; my old V1E could be left unused for weeks, and not loose a minute!