Archos AV500 and AV420 portable video recorder capabilities, accessories, and modifications for video production use

Gear

ZephyrCan I fly my Alexa or RED on a Zephyr?389

Master SeriesIs a used Master Series rig worth buying as a first big rig?191

BFDHow do I power my BFD receiver from my camera or sled?186

VoltCan I retrofit a Volt onto my existing sled or gimbal?168

ArtemisHow do I power my camera and accessories from an Artemis sled?166

MDRWhere can I mount my Preston MDR on my rig?143

ModulusIs there a Modulus option for HD wireless video?141

G-70Will my G-70 fit my vest, gimbal or sled?126

FI+ZCan I control iris and zoom wirelessly, not just focus?60

HU3Where can I get my HU3 repaired, refurbished or repainted?60

CineLiveHow do I pack and case my CineLive rig for transport?54

G-70XHow does the G-70X compare to Pro Titan, Xarm and other arms?46

Trinity 2Is Trinity 2 SUP 3.0 firmware safe to install or buggy?46

Ultra VestWhich vest should I choose for my body size, comfort and operator type?39

2005Video Assist and Video Accessories forum

21 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.

The AV500 offers 100GB storage compared to the AV420's 20GB, providing significantly more recording capacity
The AV500 supports MPEG-4 video encoding at bitrates up to approximately 6 Mbps, while the AV420 is limited to around 2.6 Mbps, resulting in better image quality on the AV500
The AV500 weighs 315g versus the AV420 at 280g
The AV500 docking station includes video pass-through capability, allowing the device to sit between a camera and video monitor without requiring additional video distribution equipment
Custom cables can be constructed using connectors like 5-pin LEMO or Hirose to connect the recorders to professional video equipment, avoiding the need to modify the factory docking cradle
A CD jewel case can be cut and velcroed to the device screen for protective purposes
The standard remote control supplied with these devices is oversized and custom alternatives may be explored for smaller footprint solutions

Information about the AV500 specifications appears to be estimated or inferred rather than officially confirmed datarates
Custom cable modifications require technical skill and may compromise video playback quality if connectors are not properly integrated
The AV500 video pass-through functionality requires careful setup to avoid feedback loops when routing video signals
No confirmed user experience with the AV500 was reported in the thread, only with the AV420
Third-party case solutions discussed do not all provide clear screen protection windows