For introduction at NAB 2003, Panasonic unveiled the AG-DVC80, a new 3-CCD DV Proline camcorder featuring precision wide-angle Leica Dicomar lens.

Offering the same body style and many of the same innovative features as its immensely-popular AG-DVX100 24p/30p/60i camcorder, the new AG-DVC80 DV Proline series 3-CCD camcorder is focused on 480i/60 (NTSC) applications. The ultra-compact 4.2-pound unit is equipped with 1/3" 410,000-pixel 3-CCD imagers that deliver more than 500 lines of horizontal resolution (a 25% picture quality improvement over analog VHS), low smear and flare, and low light performance of 3 lux (at +18dB).

The unit is equipped with a precision f1.6 wide-angle zoom lens (4.5mm to 45m) allowing a shooter to be extremely close to the action without the added weight, expense, inconvenience and distortion of an add-on adapter.

Manual controls include Servo/Manual Zoom (with stops and barrel markings) Its advanced optical image stabilization delivers superb picture quality and minimizes jitter, so hand-held shots and video taken from moving vehicles appear smooth and steady.

Its two, easy-to-view displays -- a large, centrally-located pivoting electronic viewfinder for left or right eye use, and a flip-out, 270-degree, 3.5" LCD panel -- makes shooting with the AG-DVC80 simple from overhead or from low angles. Superimposed audio metering is available on both the flip out LCD panel and viewfinder.

The AG-DVC80 offers a comprehensive list of standard performance features including six scene files and two user-assignable functions; S-Video, video and stereo audio inputs and outputs; pre-cleaning heads and auto head cleaning to maximize reliability.

The well-balanced camcorder can capture pictures in the conventional 4:3 aspect ratio and 16:9 aspect ratio letterbox modes. The unit offers16-bit/48kHz digital audio with two-channel, built-in XLR inputs; phantom power supply (48V); manual audio volume controls (ch1/ch2 independent), and Line/Mic switchability.

The camcorder's standard accessories include 1.6Ah battery, AC adapter/charger, microphone holder, remote control, shoulder strap, lens cap, cleaning tape and instruction manual.

The AG-DVC80 will be available in June at a suggested list price of $3,295.

Fascinating development. Thanks, Steve!

That should be interesting. I wonder if it'll have a decent widescreen.

<<<-- Originally posted by Frank Granovski : That should be interesting. I wonder if it'll have a decent widescreen. -->>>

Same as DVX100.

There's a single chip HD Sony coming out? Things are starting to move along....

hi Steve; any of these cameras available yet?

where can i get one in Canada?

thanks a bunch.

ps. if you don't mind, cc me at :
lorenzodistefano@hotmail.com

Not 'til June.

What ever happened to the DVC80? Back in April, Chris wrote:

"[Quote from Steve] << The DVX100 lets me live in a 24fps world without lots of pre and post production fussing. More time for the fun, creative stuff, less time trying to make stuff 24fps progressive. >>

Well, I would have to call that the bottom line right there, and an excellent way to sum up your decision to choose the DVX100.

As for myself, someone who doesn't need 24p, I've been giving serious thought to the DVC80. But that's for another thread.


__________________
Chris Hurd
San Marcos, TX"

Well, this is "The Thread". What about it folks, has anyone used this cam? Comments? Opinions? Que passo?

Nick

Fear not, Nick :) here ya go

http://www.panasonic.com/PBDS/subcat/Products/cams_ccorders/f_ag-dvc80.html

Thanks Kevin, but I was wondering if anyone has actually used one of these new puppies.

Nick

Anyway, they're not yet available here.

I go hybernate for a few months and a whole new camcorder shows up...
I know nothing of this DVC80. I first thought it was the PAL version of the DVX100, but after a cursory web search, found that it seems to be a more robust version for ENG field-work.
At any rate, what are the differences between the DVX100 and DVC80?

-Glenn III

Read here:

http://www.dvinfo.net/conf/showthread.php?s=&threadid=10411

Ok; so basically, it's the DVX w/o my two favorite featrues:)
Thanks Stephen.

egg-zactly! :)

Hey all!

Last week, my question would have been PD150 or DVC80, but with the DVC80 for only $2400 now at B&H, the Sony is no longer an option.

I primarily do event videography (weddings, military functions, homecomings, etc.) and plan on doing a few docs later on, but more as a hobby.

Is the DVX100 overkill for this type of current usage, or still worth the additional $700+ to get Progressive scan for event videography (edited very artistically)?

I need to make a decision this week so please give me your wisdom!! Thank you all in advance.

to engage in 24 or 30 P - the picture quality is superb. However, keeping focus at an event can be a bitch. I imagine you will have all the same picture controls with the 80 but without the progressive scan capabilities. That in itself makes the panny a good choice. I shot a wedding in 60i with the panny (my first shoot with the cam about 3 days after I got it - didn't have the confidence to shot progressive at that time.) At this point, I'd reshoot that event in 30p given the choice. anyhoo- good luck.

Hey, the DVX has more than just the 24p and 30p modes so I would go with it if you can afford it. I shoot events all the time in 24p, and i just infinity focus.

But, if you never ever want to shoot progressive, or use the extra transport controls or DSP settings, and are about to buy a GL2 or sony, go with the DVC-80.

Hello,

I'm starting a project in which I need a very good 3 Chip hand held Cam. It's size has to be small to allow for mounting on motorcycles and other machines. For shots in very tight areas (like inside of engine bays), I'll be using high resolution "lipstick cam" and plan on plugging that into the 3 chip cam (use it as a VTR). Now, I really don't need to shoot in 24p or 30p modes, this is why I'm looking at the Panny DVC-80.

Most of the shots will be during day light hours, some at "the golden hour", only a few night shots, and several indoor interviews. All of my subjects (except for the interviews) will be moving "very fast" or will be in conditions that are not "human friendly", like above/underwater surfing shots at the pipe, high speed runs on fast machines, etc.....

From what I've read here so far, the DVC-80 is the same as the DVX100 without 24p, cinigamma, and few other modes. I can apply filters/plugs in post to achieve the "cinigamma" and other DSP effects of the DVX100, so I'm looking to save some cash for other toys needed for this project. The DVC-80 is selling for around $2000-$2300 depending on dealer choice. The savings between the DVC-80 and the DVX100 or a PD150 would allow me to purchase an underwater housing, and other needed accessories.

Sooo.... Here a few questions.
==============================
---
(1) Does anyone here have the DCV-80? If so, what are your likes/dislikes about it?
---
(2) The Sony PD150 is great in low light, how does the DVC-80 compare to it?
---
(3) How durable is the DVC-80? Can it operate in rugged environments or function well in high vibration situations (meaning high wind and engine vibes transmitted through cam mounting)? Also, what's the average usage hours on a DVC-80 before sending it off for a major overhaul (lets say under normal use, I can calculate the "beating factor" in later)?
---
(4) Any suggestions of other 3 chip cams if you think the DVC-80 is not a good choice? Also, please explain why.
---
(5) Has Panny fixed focusing & zooming issues with the DVC-80? I've read that the DVX100 in manual mode takes some practice in regards to focusing and zooming.
---
(6) Panny mentions they have installed stops on focus and zoom rings. Is it the same as the DVX100? (I really hate the endless spinning rings).
---
(7) Does a company sell a shoulder brace/mount for the DVC-80 (not necessarily from Panny) for shoulder held shots?
---
(8) Are there any links that show pics of the Panasonic underwater housing? Does anyone here have one, is it a good quality unit? Likes/Dislikes? Are there other units that will mate with the DVC-80 without modding them?
---
(9) Are there any links to more reviews on the DVC-80? It's a new cam and I can't find many out there (online).
---
(10) Any reasons why I should not get the DVC-80? (Please be objective).
---

==============================

That about covers it.... Any information and feedback will be greatly appreciated (thanks in advance). Well, I have to take a nap (YAWN).... Have a great week and trouble free shoot everyone.


-Terry

Anybody here? Hmmmm.... Can anyone help out? Pretty please with sugar on top ..

-Terry

<<<-- Originally posted by Terry Glatz : Hello,
I can apply filters/plugs in post to achieve the "cinigamma" and other DSP effects of the DVX100, so I'm looking to save some cash for other toys needed for this project. -->>>

Cinegamma cannot be achieved in post. It actually changes the gamma of the captured image resulting in a increase in exposure latitude. You can simulate in post, but you cannot create pixels that the camera did not capture up front.

24P can be done in post, but unless you already own a quality plugin, it will cost you $300 to $1000 to get the software. That kills the price advantage right there.

I don't own nor have I used a DCV-80 and it's camera for people who want basic, rugged, quality 60i interlaced video footage i.e. broadcasters and some event/corporate types. It's not intended for creative, narrative or film-style productions.

If you can LEGITIMATELY get a dv80 for $2K then I'd probably do that... when I researched it the difference between a dv80 and a dvx100 was only $400 which begged the question, "What's the point?"

I'm surprised that Panasonic has both these cameras available. As I read it the dv80 doesn't do ANY progressive modes let alone the cine-gamma etc.

It's only my humble opinion, but you really need to find somebody local to you that can show you the benefits of going with the dvx. I'll be surprised if anybody who buys a dvx ever goes back to 60i... About the ONLY reason I can find for this cam to even have 60i built into it is for the extremely rare occasion when you absolutely MUST use gain to get light over clarity... as in identifying a criminal or something where light is crucial... otherwise you'll prefer the darker (and SHARPER) image of the progressive modes.

I expect that 90% of my future video will be in 30p, 8% will be in 24p, and 2% will be 60i... it's THAT good. Really.

As far as taking a point by point approach to your list of questions, I really can't address all of them based on my lack of experience with the dv80... The manual focus is great on the dvx (and so the dv80)... very fast and easy, there are no stops on that, but as you use it you'll realize that it's not really needed anyway... you'll be feathering focus with a nudge, not spinning to focus. The zoom does have stops though, but using this cam in manual zoom is not something I expect to do... full wide to full zoom is a 90 degree turn so there is no way you're going to do a smooth zoom without doing it electronically, unless you want to do Adam Wilt's string thing.

Just to prove I'm not irrationally biased to the Panasonic I can tell you that I doubt anybody makes a more DURABLE camera then Sony... I expect that the pd150 is physically tougher, but time will tell on that issue and I WILL say that the dvx and dv80 are made of magnesium alloy NOT plastic, as they appear. Go to Adam Wilt's page for a cool pic. Also the pd150 is a better low-light cam by a marginal amount... if low light was the ONLY consideration I'd probably go with the pd150.

The audio on the dv80 will be on par with the dvx and that is a big plus... Panny leads the class on audio right now. Even after the "fixed" audio on pd150's people say it's not very close to the dvx audio.

You may have people try to tell you to consider a pdx10 since you're mentioning a $2K price, but I doubt that price will prove to be a real one... so if the "real" price is more like $2500 then you're in the park with pd150's and only $500 away from a dvx.

Tiburon makes an underwater housing for most lanc protocol cams for around $600 at B&H... Panny's control system is different so we'll have to see what comes out for the dvx. Gates housings often cost as much as the camera... so pay or wait.

Now that I've offered some info and a well-deserved complement for the pd150 I'm gonna' give you a Super-Panasonic Wedgy just so you'll go to sleep tonight hearing voices in your head (convincing you that you'll be HAPPIEST with the dvx)... here's a quote from VideoSystems... an industry magazine that plugs Sony products almost EXCLUSIVELY every time somebody asks what camera to get... In the December 02 issue Barry Braverman said:

"With all the hype surrounding this breakthrough camera, it may be difficult for the curious shooter to seperate fact from fiction. Let's just say the dvx100 represents a quantum leap forward in DV imaging. Shadow detail and lens performance are both exceptionally good, especially for a DV model in this price range."

Thanks for the replies.

Note: I'm not fixed on the 2k price of the DVC-80, however, I was curious about what you get for $2,000 bucks.
It might be a great second cam to have in the bag though.

Yes, your right about simulating cini-gama in post, but you can get sort of close. As far as other plug ins, I have a boat load of them. More often than not, I don't use them (Less is more sometimes).

Anyway, the project will not begin until this fall (late October), so I can stash away more cash for a DVX100. I will need to buy new NLE software that supports 24p, any recommendations? Please, no rinky dink stuff for tourists and home movie makers.... I prefer to use software & hardware combo's that have it's own SCSI bus controller on the PVR board (drives connect directly to the card, like DPS systems impliments). This way your not dependent on the computer system bus or CPU speeds while editing/rendering.

Now, the version of Speed Razor I own does not support 24p (unless I import it via analog connection (S-VHS or component In). This can introduce more visual quality problems when going this route though (not to bad, but enough to bother me). Plus, my version is for hardware specific cards, such as my DPS PVR and others. You can use your "system drives" with my version, but it's slow as death!

The DVX100 has been one of my choices (I'm leaning that way now).
Sorry, I'm pretty biased against Sony due to several nasty problems I had with them in the past and their policy of "we control the world and the medium you buy". Yes, I know it's a silly reason, but it's the same feeling I have towards Microsquish (soft).

Don't get me wrong, I've used Sony pro audio and video gear for years, and they do produce great stuff. However, their policies in regards to admitting bugs, honoring warranties, and other nonsense is not acceptable with me. I've been stuck with the bill many times when Sony has denied a problem on their end... Now I read here about how they dealt with the PD150 audio noise problem. Nope, I think that other manufactures out there make great gear also and I'll stick with them. Panny has never given me problems in the past and their gear has taken a beating and kept on running and running and running....

Anyway, your point about the DVX is well taken (Thanks for planting the seed). The savings is not "that important" to me if I'm getting a superior product. It will just be a pain to buy and learn a new NLE system. Oh well, we must move forward in life and that means learning new stuff I guess.

Thanks again for the information. If you have anymore suggestions, please fire away.

Have a great week.

-Terry

Hardware assisted 24p that explicity supports the DVX100 is Avid Xpress Pro with Mojo, Final Cut Pro with Cinewave (don't know much about that choice) and not much else that I have heard.

Nothing stated on new Matrox, Canopus, DPS or other Pinnacle products (though if anyone knows, please post it here).

A lot of us like Vegas 4.0. I came to it from Matrox RT2000 and much prefer it though I'm still learning the video cutting side (used it for audio for some time).

On a fast machine, I don't miss any of the "real-time" assist.

The key for NLE is they must support the 2:3:3:2 pulldown on 24P advanced mode. Ideally for capture, previews and output (with and without reverse pulldown).

Terry, I read your post after mine and I need to re-emphasize a point. I plan to shoot 90% of my video in 30p, not 24p... and 30p loads directly into whatever nle you use right now. I get great results right out of premiere 6.0. For normal tv viewing most people will prefer 30p most of the time.

Since you were initially considering a 60i camera, you don't have to turn your world upside down to accomodate 24p... you can always do that later and still be elated with the images you get from the dvx in 30p.

Also I couldn't agree with you more on Sony's politics... I try as hard as I can to buy ANY other brand first. The only time I don't is when I truly feel that Sony is my only choice for a particular need and price range.

I know the DVX100 has all sorts of image controls (gamma, etc)...does the DVC80 have these as well? Is the 60i image of the DVX100 the same as the image the DVC80 produces?

Here's a list that someone made which should detail all the differences:

http://www.2-pop.com/ubbthreads/showflat.php?Cat=&Board=PanasonicAGDVX100Camera&Number=616014&Forum=PanasonicAGDVX100Camera&Words=dvc80&Match=Entire%20Phrase&Searchpage=0&Limit=25&Old=3months&Main=616004&Search=true#Post616014

In short, no, the DVC80 does not have all the image-adjustment features (if this person's list is definitely accurate). No adjustable gamma, no cine-matrix, no color temperature shift, maybe some other things. Of course, neither does the PD150, which is the DVC80's main competition, so maybe they thought we wouldn't notice?

Other than those things, the 60i performance should be basiaclly identical between the DVC80 and the DVX100.

I am suprised that this camera get's so little attention. It's features seem to put it in the PD-150 range at a VX2K price. Anyone used/bought this camera like to comment on performance, image, audio, controls, etc?

GL

I ordered the dvx100 because I'm intrigued by all of the gamma settings and of course the progressive modes. However my primary use for it will be event work namely weddings. If I find the gamma settings and progressive modes not exactly fitting to my work I'll probably go with a dvc80 as my 2nd cam in the future.

I too was looking at the DVC-80 as an alternative to the GL2. What I did was download the DVC-80 manual and compare it to the dvx100 manual. Do this and you will find more than just 24p and cinegamma missing. The objectionable omissions were the removal of zoom and focus position feedback from the displays!

Personnaly the status of the zoom is important for preset shots, focus too.

The manuals for both cameras can be downloaded from panasonic's web site.

The zoom and focus readouts are missing from the display? Really? That's not good.

The zoom readout isn't that big of a deal, because you always have the actual manual zoom ring you can look at and find out what position the zoom ring is at. The missing focus readout would be really disappointing, as that's one of the neatest features on the DVX100. Still, consider that the competition (GL2, PD150/170, VX2000, etc) don't have any sort of focus readout and it's not crippling, but certainly disappointing.

Yes, I suppose in that light it isn't such an omission. I guess I may have lost sight of my goal and budget and started comparing the dvc to the dvx , rather than the GL2! Thanks for the slap back to reality and I am going to give it a second look!

I tried 2 GL2's from B&H and both had viewfinder problems. Canon suggested I send the camera to them for repair instead of returning it to B&H. I suggested they fix their production. That is why I began looking at the DVX then found the DVC-80. I really like the wide-angle lens and manual zoom capability!

For the gl2 viewfinder issue see the gl2 forum "gl2 defects"

<<<-- Originally posted by Barry Green : Still, consider that the competition (GL2, PD150/170, VX2000, etc) don't have any sort of focus readout -->>>

FWIW, the PDX-10 has a focus readout (in meters), a zoom bar-graph and an exposure bar-graph. For some strange reason Sony decided to add the focus readout but not display the actual f-stop. Go figure...

Yeah, the PDX10 was my first pro investment but I had to return it because of the smear problems I constantly encountered. I didn't feel that constant worry about avoiding limitations of the equipment was in order.

I decided to escalate my budget yet another notch to look at the GL2. My progression was:
Canon ZR65 - handy and convenient but not practical for my taste
Pana dv953 - great features and ergonomics, poor execution
Sony PDX10 - poor balance, akward controls, vertical smear
Canon GL2 - lousy viewfinder, lense a little long
Pana DVX100 - Too expensive for a first timer (maybe).

So my search continues... DVC80??? nothing in it's class

hi joe,

I am also interested in pdx10, would you please tell me how come you constantly have smear problem? under which condition ? thank you.

Use the search button at the top of this page and search for my name. Then select the thraed titled "vertical smear: sounds like a bad skiing accident". In that thread you'll find my post about my PDX10 experience.

My conclusion was that after spending $1900 for a camera I should not have to be paranoid about scene content and bad side-effects. Sure there are work-arounds but I don't know them, and couldn't get those posted herein to work. The fact that Sony eludes to smear in the manual as "normal operation" turned me off.

Fact is; I didn't know what vertical smear was until I had this camera!

Smear occurs when the cam is pointed into a strong light source (the sun, bright pointy chandelier lights, and is especially accentuated, vertically, when you have a much darker foreground. With a little experimentation, and in more controlled shooting situations, this phenomena can successfully be avoided. Promise. But know yourself, how you shoot, etc.. If you're shooting happy go lucky outdoor home movies, or you really require the cam to do the work, then a cam with larger chips is the way to go. Naturally, they generally cost more, though the vx2000 and the dvc80 are fairly comparable in price. Smear tends to happen by degrees with the smaller chip cams, and the 950/pdx10 seem to have their fair share. But, my god, read around. Guys are sky and scuba diving with this cam. Our own Boyd Ostroff shoots with one for an opera company (paired with a vx2000). I recently shot with mine for seven hours in a classroom: one instance of smear; the light bulb seen through the side of the overhead projector created a vertical laser effect. I had another cam shooting the same basic area, so I'm covered. If you intend make a high pressure living in a variety of conditions with one PDX10, then reconsider your choices. If you have the time to constuct a work of art/product, or have the time to get to know it's limitations for certain future run and gun app.s, and every cam has them, much can be done with this piece of equipment. I would venture to say that this cam does exceedingly well when paired with a second piece. And do notice that "Vertical Smear: sounds like the worst skiing accident ever" was started by me. The PDX10 is also my first "real" cam, I'd heard about the smear, and set out to find it my first day. I found it, was alarmed, asked about it here, and continued shooting. I've hardly seen smear since. I recommend this camera, but do know what you need, if possible. The PDX10 is more specialized than a vx2000. Good luck,
Shawn

ps Must check out Boyd's stills somewhere around here. Good justice done.

ps I really really want a dvc80 to go with that pdx10. All donations are accepted.

Allow me,

As no one i mean no one in the industry has taken the time to properly give a review of this camcorder.

I bought one blindly. This forum helped me in some ways because essentialy other than the 24p, cinegama and the like it is essentialythe same build.

In my opinion it is direct competition with the Sony PD150. The camera comes with a battery charger wheras the Sony lacks. The omni microphone on the DVC 80 is really nice.. it doesnt come with the directional shotgun mic.

B&H sells them for $2350. With the uni directional mic its $2500. The Sony PD 150 Sells for $3100.

I am somewhat of a novice so I cant go into great detail about comparisons and such. I know the gain is magnificent I know the construction seems to be great and extremely durable.

I have used a PD 150, I rented it for a weekend for my sisters wedding. It was a great camera. it seemed very durable as well. it was moreso ergonomic I think. It certainly been tried and tested for durability.

So i guess all i can do is continue using the DVC 80 and hope that the camera's durability meets up to the PD 150 comparitive challenge.

The DVC 80 is built like a lil tank.. It's stylish. And I think customers as i plan to shoot weddings etc. will percieve that im using professional equipment. The images it produces are great and certainly will please the discriminating user.

i recommend it from a novice prospective whatever thats worth. If anyone has any particular questions I will try my best to answer them.. Hope this helps some folks.. Thanks

I already owned the DVX100 and I recently bought the DVC80 and I'm not disappointed, especially for the price. The color is great, the feel is good and the price is right.

I bought both cameras from buydig.com and I was pleasantly pleased with their service and delivery time.

didnt i read somewhere Buydig was a scam shop? If im worng i appologize i thought i read that somewhere.. be careful who you give your card # too i was taken advantage of for 2,00 it took me 5 weeks to get my money back.. 5 weeks i couldnt afford.. anxiety , stress, sleepness nights.. Not really trying to give them an advertisement here but i have made 4 purchases from B&H and not one issue.. professional timely service..

Scott,

What kind of image presets are there on the dvc80? I own the dvx100 and have been overwhelmed by the image manipulation offered. Unfortunately some of it looks buggy to my eyes. The gamma is a little screwy IMO which is probably the cause of the highly visible image noise that a few of us have complained about. This is even at 0db gain which is not a good thing. How does the dvc80 compare say to the pd150 in low light? Do you notice a lot of picture noise even at low gain modes?

To be honest sir...
There are sooooo many different functions on this camera i am overwhelmed.. I know it doesnt have the same functions as the DVX 100.. Cinegama, 30p and 24 p come to mind.. Otherwise it has the standard 60 I .. (interlaced) this is the standard that most folks use to do weddings and corporate and such..

The PD150 is very comparable in its capability.. Pany made the DVC 80 to compete with Sonys PD150.. Other than the fact that Sony takes some crappy quality stills at 1 megapixel or close to that range.. in a progressive mode. Its essentialy has the same capabilities.

The gain in low light is comparable.. Personally i like the picture better that i got from my DVC 80.. I did notice some graininess at highest setting in low light.. Which you will certainly get with any camera. Fact is: this camera will see things in the dark with the gain that the human eye cant really see.

Im not for sure if my settings were off when i used the PD150 or not.. I assume that i may have tweaked it and got an image that would be somewhat indistinguishable from the PD150 image.

Im still on a learning curve. Im a novice.. I could make most folks head swim that arent in the industry with all the technical jargon I have learned on this forum and others.. But if i were to chat with a pro.. It would be a learning experience for me.. Hope that helps some. If anyone has questions more specific Im willing to do a test or two and report back.. I am a busy person so I can deal with a few of them and it would be a learning experience for me as well.. Thanks

"didnt i read somewhere Buydig was a scam shop?"

Buydig is NOT a scam shop, but as always do your research before buying.

I went to buydig website.. No address of where they are located.. That worrys me.. Maybe its hidden soemwhere on their site.. This is not a good sign for anyone wanting to do business with any companies

They me reputable.. I tried to go back to where i thought i read the negative press and didnt find anything about them.. Mistake on my part.. I prefaced it as Im not sure..My intention was not to be slanderous..

If you feel uncomfortable with buying from buydig then profeel offers similar prices. The can be a bit pushy and are not the most friendly of folk but they came through with my dvx100.

i am totally sold on B&H. There is a reason why they are the most popular.. They deliver and have time and time again without a hitch....

You can equally good or better service at Zotz Digital (call Brian, tell him you're from DVInfo) and better prices than B&H, plus you're helping this site as Zotz sponsors DV Info. I got my DVX100 there plus lots of stuff since. They have been perfect with everything and better than B&H on price.

Buying one of them within 24 hours how about some opinions. Being used for weddings mostly.

It's funny that you're getting more replies over in the VX2000 forum...

These were the two cameras I was considering so very recently (the PD 150 was on my list at first, but I scaled back the budget a tiny bit). Since both were the same price, it was a battle of features, and for me, the DVC80 won out.

A big selling point for the DVC80 for me was the XLR inputs. As basically a one-man crew, I don't want to bother with either 1) dealing with quasi-XLR sound with a mini-plug/XLR adapter or 2) dealing with an external DAT/MiniCD deck just to capture good audio. So far, I'm happy with the audio.

Basically, I felt that both cameras were very similar in features for the video work I want to do. I really liked the DVC80's XLRs, it felt better in my hand, word on the street was really good...and a lot of other ephemeral things that influenced my decision.

I'm only starting my third week of ownership -- perhaps I'll know more later.