Media Player for Sanyo 60p Videos - Update

Since my last post on this was in March, it is time to give an update on this item. Based on feedback from the comments here and in other forums, it would seem that all HD media players are now able to play the 60p videos from the Sanyo HD2000 or FH1. Just make sure that they are new models using the current chipsets as older models (like the 1st generation WDTV) cannot play these videos. But to be sure, bring along a 60p video clip and do a physical test on the player you intend to purchase.

For those thinking of getting a HD Media Player, you can refer to my Blog here, just updated, for a quick guide. There is a new companion Blog on choosing a HDTV if you do not have one yet. Both items are necessary to enjoy the fruits of your shooting labor with the HD2000. Have fun!

Ronald Kwok

Hail and Wail to Sanyo

I was hoping that in 2010, Sanyo will release an improved version of the HD2000/FH1 with the long awaited optical image stabilization (OIS) which will make this series a top buy. Anyway, it did not happen and looks like it never will. The new models released do not have OIS and in fact the resolution has dropped to just 1920x1080i and they are aimed at a different market. This is understandable since Sanyo has been acquired by Panasonic and they do not want to compete in the same market segment. The latest Panasonic 700 series has now the 1920x1080p (60p) resolution, presumable using the Sanyo technology and they are getting rave reviews for the video quality.

We owners of the HD2000/FH1 have been enjoying the 60p resolution much earlier and looks like this series will not be continued. It is not perfect but it has many innovative features. Only now the latest Sony series can copy to an external HDD without using a PC calling it Direct Copy; Sanyo already have it earlier as part of the Xacti Library.

I recently got myself the Sony XR350E camcorder since I needed one with a HDD for my travels. It definitely beats the Sanyo HD2000 with its rock steady image stabilization and solid auto-focus and after using it, only then I realized there are plenty of neat features in the Sanyo that are not available in the Sony though it costs substantially more.

So hang-on to your Sanyo camcorders if you have one and those without should get yourself a HD2000/FH1 while it is still available as this will reach cult status or become a collector’s item soon. Happy shooting!

Ronald Kwok

Sanyo HD2000 vs Sony XR350E

After playing with the HD2000 for some time, I feel that I must move to something better. Better in the area of image stabilisation and auto-focus, the major setbacks of the HD2000. The camcorder that I opted for is the latest Sony XR350E and the reasons I chose this are in my new Blog on this videocamera. I'll be going for holiday in Germany (leaving tomorrow itself) using this Sony while my wife will be using her Sanyo so it will be a real shoot-out. I'll report the results later in June when I am back. So meanwhile, sit tight and enjoy using your own camcorder that is right for you. Cheers.

Ronald Kwok.