tbyrd

I am wanting to get a new video camera, but do not know the best one to get. I have narrowed it down between the Sony PD170 and the Canon XL2. I will be using the camera to film hunts (deer, turkey, waterfowl, bowfishing). Which video camera would be the best one to get? Does any of you use one of these, if so could you tell me the pros and cons of it? Which camera is better in low light conditions?

Thanks

TROPHYHUNTER25

get the pd 170. the canon is a great camera but the sony is so much better all around. if any more questions let me know

kshunter

I agree.. If you're deciding between the XL2 and PD-170, go with the PD-170 hands down. One big advantage is that it's much superior in low light conditions.

tbyrd

Thanks for your opinions. I agree. I am leaning more towards the Sony PD170. Are there any other cameras I should give consideration to, that are in same price range as the other two cameras I have listed. What about the Sony VX2100? or would the PD170 be the better Sony between the two to get?

Dubbya

I've been researching these cameras extensively for about a month now. Basically they are the same camera but the PD170 is the pro model. It was the XLR inputs which the vx2100 doesn't have. Also, it has a directional microphone that is or is similar to a shotgun microphone. I've opted for the PD170 because if you're going to spend that much money, you might as well get "the works" for not much extra cash. I definitely like the PD170 over the XL2, especially if you plan on doing any self filmed hunts as the XL2 doesn't have an LCD display. Good luck and let us know how it comes out.

TROPHYHUNTER25

the pd170 is the pro version of the vx2100. it already has the xlr ports so you can run a wireless mic. if your going to be selling your footage i would get a better mic for the camera. you should look at b&h photo they have great prices and service. you can find the camera else where for a lot cheaper but the don't give you everything that comes with the camera. so you end up spending more. for example i was going to buy a xl2 for another project b&h around $3,000 another site for $2,000 i called other site to se what comes with it they told me every thing. i asked what didn't and they said the veiw finder that was another $2,000

stikbow26

All of our teams are running the sony PD170 like said above the low light is great, but the zoom on the canon cant be beat. So you have a big decsion to make because if you were just videoing deer i would say the sony but turkey and water fowl you might want more zoom not sure never videoed any of them.. Walt

tbyrd

Thanks for all the info. I have noticed there seem to be two different models of the PD170 that are listed on some of the websites. One is called the PD170, the other is the PD170 (PAL). They look like the same camera, but the PAL version has a few different specs and what looks like a different shotgun mic, and cost about $1000 more. What can you all tell me about this.

TROPHYHUNTER25

Stay away from the pal version. Its Japanese crap. Wont work here in the US.