How bad is the viewfinder on the F330? I've heard it is below par for HD.

I'm wondering between the 330 and 350 but the viewfinder is the major draw for me as there is little point in shooting HD if it is out of focus!

I'm going to try and test both cameras but I'm not sure if I'll get a chance with my schedule.

Thanks!

You can buy the higher quality 16x9 2.0 inch viewfinder for the F330. I think it's around $2000USD. It will work just fine on the F330.

Just mentioned that because it would still save you money over buying the F350 if you don't need the other features of the higher end body.

-gb-

Thanks Greg.

I was aware of that, but it would make the price difference close enough to just upgrade to the 350. Pretty sure it is a deliberate move by Sony and one that will have sold many 350s.

It is of course an option if I get sick of the 1.5" but I'd prefer to buy the correct gear first time.

I agree.

Pairing a 4:3 viewfinder on an HD camera is a little suspect to me.

It's just a way to keep the price low on an F330 package.

I had a F330 beside a F350, so i could take a look in both viewfinders at nearly the same time. The difference is like driving through traffic by bike or by truck. It's just WOW...
The F330s viewfinder worked great with my DSR400, but don't try it in any 16:9 mode or HD.
The Sony IMX Cameras are also equipted with the F350 viewfinder, and it's also the standard - viewfinder for the HDCAM - Series...

I bought my 330 with a 2 inch viewfinder. The 1.5 inch is 4:3 and shows black bars to fit the 16:9 image. The image is to small to focus. I tried it, I couldn't focus well. And focus is critical in HD. I consider to buy a real HD lens in the future. Probably one that works with the autofocus of the camera.