HPX3700

December 31, 2011 forum topics
My buddy has an HPX3700 P2 Varicam.

He is considering selling it, since he mostly does motion graphics and never uses it. It’s only been used a few times, it’s in like new condition, and I could get a really good deal on it and a Fuji HD lens. Plus, he has the PS/Teknik adapter and a nice set of Zeiss Primes.

I am going to do a lot of two camera shoots this Spring, and I need matching P2 cameras that I can pair up using scene files. It seems like a wise buy, since along with my HPX370 P2 camera, I could be covering all formats and frame rates for a variety of clients.

I would be using this gear to shoot horseback riding, interviews, documentaries, nature, corporate films, some TV commercials, and the occasional sport event. Any reason why I should consider otherwise and buy a used HPX2700 instead? I know that the 3700 only goes up to 30 frames, but my HPX370 can shoot up to 60 frames, so I would be covered for those slo-mo shots (which I rarely do), and I could use the 3700 for everything else.

I also watched this video.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YtRs7WQ2PBA

I am also involved in creating and delivering content to Nat Geo, much of which has been previously done on HDV. We are now using a combination of DSLRs and the Canon XF305 4:2:2 camera, but I would like to start using a 2/3 inch chip camera for the Nat Geo program production due to the better audio recording capabilities as opposed to a DSLR, where a double system is necessary for good audio, and the easier run and gun operation of the 3700 as opposed to the DSLR. The 305 provides master quality recording, but I need bigger chips due to the low-light shooting situations that we often encounter when on location. Is the 3700 currently used for any Nat Geo programming? I also do some work for the crew booking agencies with my current gear, and I would like to add a top-end camera like the Varicam to my arsenal. I could get a screamin deal on this cam from my buddy. So would owning a 3700 be a wise choice for me? Or should I look at a 2700?

I read that the 3700 is the "gold standard" for Discovery and Nat Geo programming.

And as always, your input is appreciated on this issue!