Problem deciding between a HVR-MRC1K or a Focus Enhancements
FS-5 unit for a Sony HVR-Z5 camera. Sony recommends their own
UDMA cards ($200 for a 8gb 300 x 45 mb/s card)which are very
expensive; price wise it looks as if the FS5 unit seem more appealing.
Anything else, compatibility wise or other "hidden" issues anyone
is aware of? Which do you prefer? Your thoughts are most welcome.

Thanks.
-dp-

One issue is that almost all users are finding no problems with cards that are much cheaper than Sony's card. I have 2 - Transcend 16 gig 300x cards and I also have used SanDisk Ultra III's with no problems. The reviews seem to be mixed on using Transcend 133x cards but many are having no problems with them. You are not going to have to spend the big bucks for the Sony cards if you choose the MRC1.

Thanks.

I've decided on the "Lexar" 16GB UDMA 300x (45MB/sec). Compared to Sony's
card with similar specs this costs $150 (with rebate); will update with test
results on my HVR-Z5.

Thanks.

I've decided on the "Lexar" 16GB UDMA 300x (45MB/sec). Compared to Sony's
card with similar specs this costs $150 (with rebate); will update with test
results on my HVR-Z5.

I use Transcend 16 Gb 133X cards on the Z5 as well as on the Z7, and I never had any problems. They cost something like 65 euros a piece, so very affordable.

I've been using ntoh transcend and kingston cards (16 and 32gb, all x133 speed)

I had a problem with one of the 32g Transcend cards, but I think it was becuase I eas formatting the card after every shoot (after I dumped the footage to my PC) then I read on here that you should simply 'delete all' rather than 'format'

Since then, Its been fine.

I bought my cards from Amazon.co.uk, £70 odd for the transcend, £60 odd for the kingston.

I also bought a 32gb x133 speed kingston off ebay (by way of hong kong) and suprisingly (touch wood) its been working fine, it was only £45!

Hope that helps, I woundt dream of spending all that money for sony branded cards.