Difference between consumer camcorders and pro kits—wildlife…

With technology increasing in small $300-$600 camcorders, whats the real difference between them and the huge $10,000 proffesional cameras?What justifies spending that much? What are the advantages?

Best Answer —lare

1. Data rate, consumer DV and HDV is fixed at 25kbps. Pro HD is 50kbps. Faster tape speed requires larger cassettes, no “minis” are used.
2. CCD sensor size, and corresponding lens size. 1/2 inch for pro-cameras, 1/6th inch for consumer.
3. Removable/repairable lenses, smooth variable speed zoom operation, and fits standard filters.
4. Battery system. A pro battery can cost over $300 each, charger can handle multiple batteries.
5. Support from manufacturer, instruction/repair manuals, parts availability.
6. Easy to use and accurate manual settings
7. White balance options
8. Access to time code while shooting, in and out, can be coordinated with other recorders.
9. Audio data sample rate is locked to video frame rate.For $300 the consumer gets a heck of a good video system but it does not have all the pro features.

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