HiDef Camera Format Comparisons

Hello, oh wise and resourceful LAFCUG! I've been trying to put together a comprehensive pro/con list for the various different kinds of HD camera/recording formats for presentation to some producers considering shooting on HD. While I know a good deal about the different possibilities and configurations between different cameras I certainly don't know everything I'd like to and I'm wondering if anyone know of or has heard of any kind of comparison chart or pro/con list for the (now) rather substantial group of digital movie cameras available from HDV to the HVX to the Viper to Varicam to f-900/950 and beyond into Genesis and the upcoming Red Technologies oddity? I'd love to find a list that exhibits each camera's capabilities, recording format, codec options, editing options and what not as a practical guide if it already exists.

Otherwise I'm going to make one. This question is just coming up far too often when producers ask me if they should shoot Varicam or f-900, and what the real difference is between 720p and 1080i - and is there a camera that shoots 1080p? Too many questions and I know the answers are out there.

Looking forward to any suggestions! Thanks!

DV magazine has done a couple of in depth tests where the compare the cinealtas, varicams on down to all the HDV trash.

i think web access to their stories is free

Go to www.hdforindies.com and look at the FAQ, and also search for the TEXAS SHOOTOUT...where they compared all sorts of HD cameras.

The Varicam has a nice Cinematic "look". DP's always comment about the look. One thing the Vaircam does that the Sony does NOT do is variable frame rates, hence the name "Varicam". Odd frame rates are no problem, just use a separate dedicated tape to shoot odd frame rate footage.

If you can afford the Genesis then you need to be shooting on film.