Anyone using the 3100 yet?

I also want to know what's the deal with this camera. Why there is not more info online about this camera?: like reviews or discussion threads. Apparently it started shipping, but if you want to buy one, you have to do a special order. It seems to me that with all the DSLR and other big sensor camera craziness, these traditional form factor camcorders have lost their sex appeal.

A larger imager (2/3") in a smaller body (HPX300/370), 10-bit, 4:2:2, AVC-Intra on reliable P2 media? Proper shoulder mount, no less. That's all very sexy to me! I would guess this will be a pretty big deal to Panasonic broadcast stations.

Working in the broadcast industry, I totally agree with you Clark. What I was trying to say is Why there is no new information about this camera?. For less than $20K you are basically getting the same camera that used to cost about $54k just a couple of years ago. The internet should be flooded with new info about this camera. That is what I don't understand. If I had the budget I would definitely buy this camera.

It's just been released. There probably aren't many users of the camera yet. I doubt they'll be as vocal as the AF100 users. We don't hear much from HPX2700 users, but you know those cameras are busy working out there.
I agree that a lightweight, 1920x1080 full raster 2/3" CCD, AVC-i 100 camera is a very big deal. I'm excited by its potential. Unfortunately, my budget is geared more toward the AF100.

That camera is pretty good to me, and I'm a PDF-F350 user. I think I'm close to pulling the trigger on it, I'm just debating the lack of 720p on the 3100 and whether I can cleanly downrez 1080 for my clients. Also, Panny has the "look" right out of the box whereas Sony always needs some tweaking to get skin tones "sexy".

The 3100 looks a bit longer than the pmw500 and weighs a tad more. Both cams have dual media slots. I think the 3100 has the sharp LCD of the 370 but the 500 carries over the EX1r's LCD. Both cams are within 3K of each other on the street. I wish Panny used the V-lock batteries so I wouldn't have to snap on an adaptor. Lots of things to think about.

-Greg

Iam looking to up date from my HDX900.. I use it with a nanoflash .. but think I need a "real" internal recording tapeless camera.
From the looks of it.. the 3100 couldnt be better if I had personally requested what i wanted direct to Pana.. including the price..!! there is even a new BW viewfinder.. my only gripe with the HDX900..

But yes I thought there would be more buzz about it.. maybe too early yet..

I think the AF100 will take alot from the DSLR market.. as its so much easier to work with..but wont take away from the doco market.. I guess the next stage would be be the bigger sensor,s being put into "full size" production camera,s. But apart from the shallow DOF thing.. handy for interviews.. I dont see the big advantage..

Iam wondering how best to use the Pana single card reader,that needs 2 USB ports.. with my 13inch Macbook pro which has only 2 USB ports.. another being needed for the ext HDD that I want to copy it too.
I would be hoping to be doing these down loading/copying at home or in hotel room.. so in theory somewhere with AC.. any idea,s? a powered hub..?

Had a good look at the 3100 at BVE this week and it looks a very nice camera that matches the HPX301 form factor, also had a look at the Sony 500 but some of the switches are getting very prosumer and small.

Got to make my mind up and buy the 3100 sooner or later.
I still see my choices at the moment as 3100 P2 or Sony 800 XDCAM.. 800 way more expensive and I still worry about the life span of moving parts camera,s,need a deck etc..
But could also worry about life span of P2.. but looks like Pana will be sticking with for a while yet.. where as Sonys new camera is already solid state..

Mmm ..

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I'm planning on attending a Panasonic demo this Thursday with the 3100, 370 and the AF100. It'll be nice to have a hands-on inspection of all of the cameras.

I would like to see those three cameras next to each other. Is this a tour or a local shop presenting?

I would like to see those three cameras next to each other. Is this a tour or a local shop presenting?

I believe it's a tour of some kind. If you're in the Jacksonville, FL. area tomorrow, The demo is at WJCT 7 at 4:30 pm.

Edit - I see you're in Texas. Kinda far for a demo.

I looked on the Panasonic website and did not see any tour info. I wonder if they are coming the north Texas area.

I looked on the Panasonic website and did not see any tour info. I wonder if they are coming the north Texas area.

I sent the Panny contact your city info. I'll let you know what he says.

Hey thanks.