2006Video Assist and Video Accessories forum
Comparison of portable video recording devices for on-set video assist use
20 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.
What the thread found
- Portable video recorders with flash card storage offer advantages over higher-capacity hard drive models for typical on-set video assist work, since most users need only 1.5 hours of recording time or less.
- A compact MPEG4-based recorder can capture 640x480 resolution at 30 frames per second for over two hours on a 2GB SD card, with dimensions around 3.14 inches wide by 2 inches high by 0.86 inches deep and weighing 2.68 ounces.
- Hard drive-based recorders like the Archos AV500 offer significantly higher storage capacity at lower cost compared to limited-capacity devices, with 30GB models available for approximately $350 and 100GB models for approximately $420.
- Important evaluation criteria for portable video recorders include picture quality, reliability, ease of use, physical size, and compatibility, which may matter more than raw storage capacity for most users.
- Devices using remote control operation rather than front panel controls are acceptable for practical use despite the additional step required.
Depends on
- One portable recorder experienced a complete system freeze during field use, indicating that thorough testing on set is necessary before relying on new devices.
- The comparison predates modern recording standards and equipment capabilities by over 15 years.
- A previous product from another manufacturer had failures, making users cautious about endorsing new devices without extended real-world testing.