2007Monitors forum
Choosing between an HD monitor or downconverter for HD video monitoring on a stabilizer rig
19 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.
What the thread found
- An 8.4-inch Tiffen UltraBrite HD monitor with 1400 nits brightness can accept HD-SDI, SDI, component video, and composite signals, as well as VGA and DVI inputs for versatility.
- A 7-inch Tiffen HD monitor exists that accepts HD-SDI, SDI, PAL/NTSC, and component video via HD-15 connector, but has lower brightness around 500 nits which limits outdoor performance.
- Some prosumer cameras like the XLH1 can output HD-SDI and composite SD simultaneously, eliminating the need for downconversion in those cases.
- A downconverter approach allows using any existing monitor including green screen models and can be rented to productions for revenue, but introduces power consumption, reliability concerns, and potential frame rate delay.
- Outdoor monitors require 1000+ nits brightness for adequate visibility in sunlight, which limits available HD monitor options in smaller sizes.
Depends on
- The discussion occurred in 2007 when HD monitoring options were limited and manufacturers had not yet released optimal 7-inch HD monitors.
- No direct comparison of downconverter latency or frame rate delay was provided to help assess real-time work suitability.
- The final decision made was to use a downconverter while waiting for better monitors to become available, so long-term performance data is not included.
- Specific issues with AJA downconverter reliability were mentioned anecdotally but not detailed.