Do HD camcorders capture better quality SD video ?

Question

I am curious as to whether a hd camera such as a Sony HVR-Z7 will capture a better Standard Definition image than an SD only camera such as a Canon XL2 ?

Answer 1

Depends, but in this case, probably yeah. Generally HD downconverted to SD is better quality, but cameras like the XL2 offer interchangeable lenses and 24p so this sometimes can't compare to good SD cameras. However with the HVR-Z7, it offers true 24p/30p, records to CF cards, and has an interchangeable lens system. Wow. That's all I can say. I normally find some way to recommend people to buy an HV20 (that's what I have), but I really can't this time. The HV20 is $6000 cheaper though and records true 24p as well. There. Hope this helps!

Answer 2

You will see the difference in the skin texture. HD captures more details that SD. Editing will take longer too since its files are bigger than SD captured video files.