$2K budget

[STEALMYBUCKS]

OK, last post didn't bring any opinions, let's try another one.

I have a budget that is set in stone of $2000 for a camera, what camera should I get?

This will be used for making video announcements and for capturing/distributing a static shot of our service to the rest of our building over RF.

Any opinions are appreciated, also what camera's to stay away from would help also.

[tdangelo]

Is your current switching and distribution to screens analog composite, component, SD SDI, HD SDI, HD component?

How far will the camera be from the stage and how tight of a shot do you want to make?

[bladeaudio]

At that price point, and knowing nothing else about your requirements as Tom has asked, and assuming you don't need an HD camera, I'd go with something like the Canon XL2. You can get them on ebay for just under $2k

[STEALMYBUCKS]

We currently use a Kramer switcher, SD only. We don't do any video distribution yet, but are going to go SD over RF (very inexpensive). The stage is 30 feet from where the camera will be, we are not looking for a very tight shot, just a reference point and something visual to go along with our audio distribution.

We may at some point do an HD upgrade, where we upgrade projectors, switcher, camera, RF head units, but that will be down the road. There is no reason for us to go HD except for the "cool" factor. SD will look good, and give vision to the video distribution.

Thanks for any input.

[tdangelo]

Considering the budget you are trying to work eBay may be the best bet IF you have someone qualified and you trust to check out the item upon delivery and the seller has a return policy.

If you eBay search the following model cameras: Panasonic DVX100, Sony PD150, Sony PD170, Canon XL1 you should be able to stay in budget with a tripod.