Differences between HV40 and HF200..

[Bjomesphat]

So I'm trying to decide between these two cameras, and I was hoping some of you could guide me toward the best one.

The thing I love most about the HV40 is the native 24p mode, but the biggest downside for me is the HDV format (not a big fan) and recording on tapes.

For the Vixia HF200, I like that it is tapeless and that it shoots in full HD at 24mbps. But I'm mostly concerned about controlling gain, aperture, and shutter. I've had the HV20, and I've been using the trick that allows you to do this, but my question is what kind of manual controls does the HF200 have? Can I choose my own shutter speed and aperture? I also don't like that it shoots 24p in a 60i wrapper, but that's not that big of a deal for me, I've dealt fine with it on the HV20.

So what camera would you guys recommend based on your knowledge and experience? Thanks!

[plainfaced]

Sorry, I cannot help..
Another Q.

When using auto settings. Whats the picture quality like between the two? Do the have the same lens/sensors?

Thanks

[CycleWriter]

The chance of finding someone that has hands-on experience with both of these cams is slim. You'll probably have to do your own research and comparisons. There are a number of threads on the HV40 strengths, weaknesses and features. Please do a search for them. The Canon website is another good resource as far as finding out about what manual controls each has.

[Bjomesphat]

That's true. But I'm not too concerned about the HV40 since I have experience with the HV20, so I really just need some impressions on the HF200.

[CycleWriter]

In that case...thread moved.

[Eugenia Loli-Queru]

The right choice for you is the HV40. You see, the HF200 does NOT have zebra support, so having additionally gain control (which I think it's a control only found on the HF-S series only), will be a bit vain. Also, you lose the full advanced shoe, and other hardware features that only the HV series have. Not to mention the larger aperture/sensor that the HV series have.

If you are serious about accessories, and good exposure estimation, and shallower depth of field, get the HV40. Or at the very least the HF-S, but the HF200 is a bit of a toy in my not so humble opinion.

[cydiamante]

New HF200 owners thread, hope this helps:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1167251