Re: Need some Info on DV cameras

The Ex1 is a bit pricer than your specs. You also need to fact in cards to record to.

The Sony HVR Z5u would be a pretty good bet. Although not quite as good as the EX1 or 3 in low light, it is a very close second. And, the Z5u has much better ergonomics for hand-held work. Currently $4,250at B&H. (Get at least one extra battery.) I suspect that it will put your existing camera to some shame, though the V1u in bright light will hold up OK. If I were buying a doc camera, this would be my first choice. (Others will have other first choices...) (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/582905-REG/Sony_HVR_Z5U_HVR_Z5U_HDV_1080p_24p_CAMCORDER.html#reviews)

If you want to move over to tapeless, then a jump to the $5,200 Panasonic HPX170 might work for you. (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/559333-REG/Panasonic_AG_HPX170_AG_HPX170_P2HD_Solid_State_Camcorder.html#reviews)

Rick Wise
director of photography
San Francisco Bay Area
and part-time instructor lighting and camera
grad school, SF Academy of Art University/Film and Video
http://www.RickWiseDP.com
http://www.linkedin.com/in/rwise
email: Rick@RickWiseDP.com