As HD continues to supplant standard definition in mainstream production, the choice of camera becomes more critical…and complicated. Network format compliance, desired look, deliverables and distribution all play a critical role in production’s choice of HD camera and workflow.

Now, Panasonic has just made this process a lot easier…as the world’s most versatile HD camera is about to hit the streets.

The AJ-HDX900 offers true Universal HD acquisition. That is, the ability to shoot in 1080i or 720p in DVCPRO HD format, in either NTSC or PAL – all in one 2/3” camera. The new AJ-HD1400 VTR is the perfect companion to the HDX900 supporting worldwide HD/SD formats including 1080/59.94, 1080/50i, 720/60p, 720/59.94p and 720/50p.

Abel’s Unbeatable HDX900 Purchase Program

In order to meet the high demand for this camera, we’re rolling out a purchase program for the HDX900 that can’t be matched. Place an order by 9/30/06, and we’ll include the following support package and extras at no additional charge:

• 64MB memory card
• Pre-loaded Abel custom settings files
• Cleaning tape
• DSC Labs Handy Camette Chart
• Full package prep, including camera build, quality control, pixel compensation, lens collimation and white shading.
• One-on-one training for you and your key people at our NY or LA facility covering camera technical usage, features and workflow. We’ll even help you customize your own settings files to your desired look and requirements.

Since the HDX900 will be in short supply through the summer, we’re now taking deposits of $2,500 to hold cameras.

Contact Jonathan Epner in NY at 212 462-0100, or Ron Ayers in LA at 818 972-9078.

The AJ-HD1400 VTR and additional package components are also available at special introductory prices.

New financing program available to get you started now!

About the HDX900

This full 2/3″ DVCPRO HD camcorder records 100Mbps HD images in any of 11 video formats, encompassing 60Hz and 50Hz production. The versatile, cost-effective camera provides 1080i, 720p, 24p and 25p capabilities, and higher-quality 4:2:2 intra-frame recording that holds up through layers of special effects, graphic overlays, and constant editing and processing.

For more information, click here.

About the HD1400 

Only 1⁄2 rack-width wide and extremely light, the AJ-HD1400 can record up to 64 minutes of HD footage on a single, compact cassette (AJ-HP64ELG). The VTR can play the entire family of DVCPRO tapes—DVCPRO HD and HD-EX, DVCPRO50 and standard DVCPRO, as well as any DV and DVCAM tapes. Its universal design also allows playback of both NTSC (480i) and PAL (576i) tapes.

The AJ-HD1400 supports worldwide HD/SD formats including 1080/59.94, 1080/50i, 720/60p, 720/59.94p and 720/50p, and it can convert from an AJ-HDC27 VariCam 50p recording (over 60p) source to native 720p/50 or PAL output, making it an exceptionally useful tool for producing HD/SD content for worldwide distribution. The AJ-HD1400 is a perfect complement to the AJ-HDC27 VariCam and new AJ-HDX900 DVCPRO HD camcorder.

For more information, click here.