I haven't used it, but I did some research on it. It looks like a pretty decent camera, and apparently is good in low lighting situations. It doesn't have any XLR mic inputs for higher quality sound. You may also want a camera with more manual 'physical' controls and dials on the body of the camera if you plan to do feature length movies.

Here's a CNET review for the camera you're looking at:
http://reviews.cnet.com/Sony_DCR_VX2100/4505-6500_7-30567263.html

Of course, if this camera reaches the limit of your budget, there's not much you can do, and all the reviews tend to give the same conclusion: not a pro camera, but it does have excellent video quality. I was having a hard time making a decision when I first posted here as well, but someone directed me to the JVC HD100U:
http://reviews.cnet.com/Sony_DCR_VX2100/4505-6500_7-30567263.html
and I've been researching it and reading reviews for a few days now. It's expensive, but I've decided that it's worth the wait and the saving. Really, you just have to know what it is you want to do with a camera, and find the camera that does it.

'In the life that man creates for himself, he too, creates his demise... and his legacy.'

I have seen the CNET reviews and many other reviews already. I have heard a lot of people are dissapointed because of the lack of an XLR input.

Basically, about $3500 is my budget. I could always get a couple more hundered in a few months, but is $3500 enough for the camcorder I want, a decent shotgun microphone, and a good light(s)?

As you see I am really trying to purchase things for production, for I already have a lot of software from a while back considering my Uncle is the manager of a CompUSA. He gives me a lot of software for an extremely cut-down price.

Well, enough of me blabbering about nothing. I really just want an answer to my question about my budget.

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When the script writing is done, the work has just begun. When the filming is done, the work has just begun. When post-production is done, the work has just begun. When the distribution is done, you decide if the work is done.

If I were to purchase an Azden SGM-1X Shotgun Microphone, what kind of an adaptor would I have to buy for the dcr-vx2100?

Also, what kind of descent affordable lights are out there?

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When the script writing is done, the work has just begun. When the filming is done, the work has just begun. When post-production is done, the work has just begun. When the distribution is done, you decide if the work is done.

This is my last question.

Is there anyone who uses this camcorder? I have heard that when it is imported into editing, it looks "weird".

Is this true?

Please be certain to answer all above questions.

Sorry for asking you guys so many questions, I just really want to know if I should buy this camcroder or not.

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When the script writing is done, the work has just begun. When the filming is done, the work has just begun. When post-production is done, the work has just begun. When the distribution is done, you decide if the work is done.

Shouldn't be anything 'weirder' than any other DV camera, though I haven't used it myself.

Personally though, I'd look at HDV if you can afford it. DV is fine for shorts, but I think if you're aiming to make a feature or two then distributors will be expecting HD masters before long.

I've used it. I didn't notice anything weird about the transfer. But then I'm not sure what you heard or what "weird" means.

The VX2100 is a very professional camera similar to the better PD-170. No XLR input but nice sized CCD?s and an acceptable lens. The controls are a little difficult to get to, but for a consumer camera they are fine. What I don?t like about this camera (and the Canon) is the focus control. The focus rings doesn?t actually focus - it turns a sensor which uses a servo motor to adjust the focus. A minor detail for consumer level operators, but to get good, fast, accurate follow focus you need a ring that rotates the lens adjusting the focus. A dedicated headphone jack is a rare thing in a consumer camera - this one has it.

BTW: I just saw Inland Empire at the famous Cinerama Dome in Hollywood. David Lynch shot that in SD with the PD170. When he came out for a Q&A after, the first words he said were, "I love DV!"

That is good to know.

Thanks for the help, guys. Has anybody else used this camcorder?

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When the script writing is done, the work has just begun. When the filming is done, the work has just begun. When post-production is done, the work has just begun. When the distribution is done, you decide if the work is done.

Dude, you've got a $3500 budget and you haven't considered the Panasonic DVX100B? I had a similar budget, and after about 4 months of research it was a no brainer; I bought a DVX100B used(36 hours on the meter) with the 16:9 anamorphic adapter for $2800, new they are $3200+ a $400 rebate for about $2800, plus they come with a copy of magic bullet editors, instant hd, and a book and DVD by emmy award-winning producer Barry Green that shows you how to ring the best results from your camera.

It also comes with 2 XLR adapters and shoots in 24 progressive, for a great film look. why pay the same price or higher for a less capable VX2100?

Do a little more research, at this price point the DVX100 is simply unbeatable, I see you want to do shorts and features, I think it's the best choice for you.

Go here for more infor: ?url?www.dvxuser.com?/url?

I'm not saying the DVX is the best because I bought one, I'm, saying I bought one because it's the best.

Got 1911?

Thank you for your inputs, guys. My budget is $3500, that is for a micorphone, an adpater, a camera, and a tripod. I think I may stick with the DCR-VX2100, but I may turn. Thank you for your replies.

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When the script writing is done, the work has just begun. When the filming is done, the work has just begun. When post-production is done, the work has just begun. When the distribution is done, you decide if the work is done.

I just checked to see what VX-2100s are selling for now and even with that much of a difference I'd still say grab the more expensive DVX100b. 24p and professional XLR audio inputs, not to mention the great image controls, make it worth every penny.

But good luck with your selection!

Got 1911?