Impressions of the Panasonic HPX-171

DVCPro P2 camcorder without tape drive

March 2, 2010

Impressions of the Panasonic HPX-171; DVCPro HD P2 camcorder

Rick FilmsJust spent most of the last week shooting with Panasonic's HPX-171. For those unfamiliar with the Panasonic camera range the HPX-171 is the European model, the equivalent of the US model, the HPX-170. This camera shoots DVCPro HD, or standard definition DVCPro, or DV to P2 card. There is no tape drive on the camera, therefore the only option is to record to card. For those want the ability to record to tape, Panasonic also offer the HVX-201A (European model) which is the successor to Panasonic?s hugely successful HVX-200.

The HPX-171 is delightfully light. This was my first impression before even switching on the camera. Many camera operators find lightweight cameras a hindrance, needing a substantial amount of weight to balance the camera, however my opinion is that Panasonic have got it just right with this camera.

Heavy cameras work great when they are shoulder mounted, The HPX-171 is a hand- held camera, much the same size as other cameras such as the Sony PMW-EX1 or HVR-Z7, or the Canon XH A1 or XH G1 - however, the HPX-171 is substantially lighter than any of these competing models. Light in such a way that one can hold the camera for long periods of time without suffering from arm fatigue. This is a big deal as it made me want to shoot and to continue shooting. Many will consider a multitude of characteristics of a camera, from technical operation to image quality as being paramount - however, for me if a camera makes me want to shoot than this is crucial: the more coverage I can get means the more footage I have to work with in the editing.

Not only does the HPX-171 makes me want to shoot, the lightness and slimness of this model makes it extremely manoeuvrable - and once again this adds to the flexibility of being able to get the shots you need.

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