I bought this camera a couple decades ago. I love it still. I bought it on a recommendation from a Local Channel Newsman Friend, but he warned people would not take the size serious. He said when he used the VX-2100, he also had to bring along an old large camera to set up as a prop, to convince people he really was a professional.
Great video! I always wanted the vx2000 when I was younger but couldnt afford it. I had to settle for a D8 TRV520. Now that they are semi-affordable I've been able to get a few (VX3, VX2000. and VX2100). Absolutely love them. I'm still on the hunt for a VX1000.
I love the VX 2000/2100 but because of skaters it’s always overshadowed by the VX-1000 and isn’t as well liked for that reason. The features on it really make it a great prosumer camcorder. Basically getting better picture and audio compared to a higher end consumer DV camera and even Digital 8. Seems a lot of the features cross over as well which is always nice.
I mean, there is a good reason why and that's due the colour palette on the 1 being more 'warmer' and the image being less sharp, so it has a certain look to it compared to the 2/21. Although they're an absolute PITA to whether they'll crap out on you over time, whereas the 21s I had never gave me many problems par having to clean tapes to stop glitches from time to time (which should be done regularly anyways, as per general camera maintenance). The 2/21 however is definitely a good camera and works well. I still stand by the VX21 as a worthy VX1 or any sort of Mini DV prosumer camera to have and that still looks good today. It's newer than the other 2, so I found it wasn't as bad for random sound or video dropouts, it'd wouldn't really give me grief if I played back on it when I was out and its general build quality was noticeable. Plus a flip out screen works was nice to use over a VX1 that doesn't have one. I filmed with my first VX21 from 2013-2016, which worked pretty much flawlessly (the only reason it died is that it got hit badly and no manual controls would work). The second one I have is still used for random projects outside of skateboarding. If you're a skateboarder and looking to replicate the VX1 look (and sound) you can sort of do so, it just takes a little bit of working with the settings.
@@fecklessdoodooship Oh I totally understand that, as both a 1k and 2/2100, I know the differences and why one is chosen more than the other. For me I’ve found the easy to create the same colors using the built in setting, image to me looks sharper, bettor sensor, and it’s easier to use.
I had the Sony VX 2000 and VX 1000 use them on many professional shoots. People asked about the camera and I told them their digital lesson great. I told them digital made the camera smaller. Use those two cameras for over 10 years. Then I moved onto HDV before going to DSLR's and Mirrorless for video. Also the VX2000 has a DV Widescreen mode.
I forget the model number of the first video camera I had, BUT I do recall it being a RCA VHS camera, that had a 1 lux video sensor in it!! THOUGH I will say that it only had a black and white viewfinder, and then the VHS was a huge camera, but in low light it was pretty amazing for indoor video recording!! I bought it in early 1990 too!! But the point is, back then there were cameras built to record in low light conditions, NOT just the Sony, and even the old Canon ES200, I had was pretty good in low light, which was an Hi 8MM with hifi stereo, dual mics, and a flip out screen. I bought the Canon in 1997!!!
Yes its true. Actually the sensors back then were bigger than they are now. Some of the cameras had 1/2" and 2/3" sensors which gave them a low light advantage. Its all relative though. Back then we say "wow, this isnt bad in low light " and then when we compare to today's cameras its funny to see how the perspective changes. As time went on each camera got better and better. Sony seemed to have the best low light technology in many peoples' opinion and this was super important for event videographers because those lights were so big, heavy and obtrusive!
It’s nice to see a thorough summary of this camera. I bought it when new and have never done much with it. Now I’m not sure if it has any utility compared to consumer cameras made in 2024. It seems a shame to let it collect dust.
Ohhh I miss my VX2100 that sadly I sold as needed the money at the time. I still own the Sony PD170 though and that’s basically the same just with pro version with XLR audio and DVCAM though I prefer standard Mini DV as it has been more reliable for me, which is rather ironic given DVCAM was supposed to be more reliable format. Great video from you once again and you did amazingly well the find this unit with the box and basically all the original stuff. Surly that pro remote didn’t come as standard as I’m sure that is the professional remote that engineers used to re program camera settings?
Thanks so much Chris ! You’re right that wired remote was not standard and I actually never even saw one like that but it’s pretty cool. Absolutely. I remember the PD170 with DVCAM- it’s funny you mention about it being LESS reliable than the 2100. It went for a lot more money didn’t it ? Just for those XLR inputs. ! A lot of people preferred DVCAM and I never really got why since the picture quality was identical but I think there were some other subtle benefits in editing ? Anyway yeah this cam was a blast from the past and still pretty fun to use. Thanks for watching and thanks for your comment !!
@@techtoremember8096 Yes I did see a video on TH-cam not too long ago about that remote. They are worth a good amount of money as it was used to do things like turn on features locked on Pal units like the ability to record via inputs that so many Pal units did not have where the US versions did due to tax laws and having a recording to tape feature via inputs made it a VCR not just a video camcorder so all down to stupid tax pricing laws. Yes the PD170 was probably another £1000 or so. As far as I know the only thing that made DVCAM "better" was it was supposed to have less drop outs but the downside was it went through tapes at a faster recording speed so tapes did not last as long as normal DV recording and the tapes cost a lot more.. Anyways I look forward to your next upload :)
Great to know ! Did not know that remote was so valuable. I’ll give it another look. It’s funny about the DVCAM drop out issue because there were so few drop outs anyway on MINI Dv! thanks again for your comments. More videos on the way ! Regards-
Great video again TTR. I picked up a DCR-TRV27E Mini DV cam and considered maybe getting a VX or something later in the year but I may just hold off and get a Blackmagic or newer alpha series camera as I don't think I absolutely need a 3CCD unit. But collecting is addictive 😅
Hi there! Thank you for the comment..Aw, are you really going to get a Blackmagic over a CCD unit?! How could you! Yes, but seriously collecting is very addicting and requires a lot of restraint...We don't need 3 CCD units, but we definitely want to them ! Thanks again.
I just found your video for the second time and I remember back in the day when I first watched it I loved your presentation. I know this may sound weird but did you ever used a super8 camera? I love both hi8 and super8 systems and the Beaulieu brand in super8 cameras is the most high standart brand. I would love to see a review from you, Kind regards, Eren
Hi Eren. Yes I do actually have a sort -of-review where I compared an 8mm film camera to 8k video th-cam.com/video/cdH9vsT5gao/w-d-xo.html. Its actually a Chinon I reviewed but I did hear that Beaulieu was a great brand. I believe my Dad may have had one. Thanks so much for your comment
I just purchased my vx2100 and am looking to purchase batteries and a battery charger but I am confused on which battery type would be compatible with the vx2100 , would you be able to help me out and let me know which batteries I should purchase and provide me with a link maybe!??
Hi. Sure. Try this link Basically the Sony NP Batteries will work or compatible brands www.ebay.com/itm/Batteries-or-LED-Dual-Charger-for-Sony-DCR-VX9-VX2100-VX9000-LED-Video-Light-/322857701739?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&_trksid=p2349624.m46890.l49286&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0 Or try this www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/835998-REG/watson_b_4205_np_f770_lithium_ion_battery_pack.html
We're so spoiled with options nowadays, this was one of the best video cameras back then, and is now beaten by an iPhone in everyone's pocket. But there's something about SD 3CCD MiniDV camcorder footage that can't be replicated with the glossy CMOS AI-enhanced cameras of today.
Love my VX-2100, but my problem is getting the video off the MiniDV and into my computer for editing. I have to keep an old computer around just so I can transfer the video to a DVD, so that I can take it to my current computer for editing. I've tried many eBay solutions without success. Do you have any ideas for getting the video directly into my Windows 10 computer? (So I can retire that old XP computer.)
Hi there. I feel your pain. I keep a dedicated computer for that reason too. I have reviewed 2 products , Elgato and the clearclick. Feel free to check them out. They both do work. You met sacrifice a little quality for some convenience. !
@@techtoremember8096 Also: I found a 1 TB External HDD with 2 Firewire connections. Do you know if the VX-2100 will store to an external source (as many pro digital cameras will do) instead of the tape while recording?
I remember doing a documentary in 2011 with one of these at night and was shooting under a street light, i ended up slowly moving away into the dark but didn't realize it until I took my eyes off and looked around that it was almost pitch black out. Really solidified this camera and a 3CCD setup ever since, still prefer it. Reject modernity. Return to standard definition.
@@techtoremember8096 that is something I never had I tried a cleaning tape but it ate the tape. my digital 8 never had that problem I will never go back to min DV
Hi there. Well first you need a way to play it on a tv. If your tv has traditional composite inputs (rare) you’re in luck if not you have to find an adapter. But that aside, this camera, since it’s high resolution for the time ,holds up pretty well. I like to watch in the original aspect ratio. (Not stretched). The smaller the screen size the better. But I think it looks pretty good considering it’s age!
I would say maybe price. If you can get a better deal on one versus the other. And styling. The vx2000 silver is a little brighter color. Otherwise they are very very similar !
@@techtoremember8096 when i import my footage from my vx / export camera my footage is always slower on QuickTime or whatever program i choose to upload on compared to the viewfinder
Brings me back early 2000s, shot so many weddings on this beast. Didn't know anything about lenses, lighting, blocking etc but it held its own.
It sure did hold its own. The camera was the perfect wedding camera for sure. Thanks for the comment
I bought this camera a couple decades ago. I love it still. I bought it on a recommendation from a Local Channel Newsman Friend, but he warned people would not take the size serious. He said when he used the VX-2100, he also had to bring along an old large camera to set up as a prop, to convince people he really was a professional.
Haha. I remember that feeling. Feeling very self-conscious using a “small “ camera back in the day !
Great video! I always wanted the vx2000 when I was younger but couldnt afford it. I had to settle for a D8 TRV520. Now that they are semi-affordable I've been able to get a few (VX3, VX2000. and VX2100). Absolutely love them. I'm still on the hunt for a VX1000.
That’s great ! Yeah Sony made the coolest cameras in the day. Thanks for the comment. Good luck on your hunt !
One of my favourite things about this camera is that it has more of that movie look, even at 30 fps
I remember my high school had this camera. I used it all the time!
I love the VX 2000/2100 but because of skaters it’s always overshadowed by the VX-1000 and isn’t as well liked for that reason. The features on it really make it a great prosumer camcorder. Basically getting better picture and audio compared to a higher end consumer DV camera and even Digital 8. Seems a lot of the features cross over as well which is always nice.
You are so spot on ! The 2100 offered so many improvements over the Vx1000 but skaters stand by it !
@@techtoremember8096 ill stand by the vx2100 for skating 😤 if its done right it looks a lot better than a VX1k
@@Dyl_Cam i stand by the PD150, basically a 2000 but a bit cheaper on ebay sometimes
I mean, there is a good reason why and that's due the colour palette on the 1 being more 'warmer' and the image being less sharp, so it has a certain look to it compared to the 2/21. Although they're an absolute PITA to whether they'll crap out on you over time, whereas the 21s I had never gave me many problems par having to clean tapes to stop glitches from time to time (which should be done regularly anyways, as per general camera maintenance).
The 2/21 however is definitely a good camera and works well. I still stand by the VX21 as a worthy VX1 or any sort of Mini DV prosumer camera to have and that still looks good today. It's newer than the other 2, so I found it wasn't as bad for random sound or video dropouts, it'd wouldn't really give me grief if I played back on it when I was out and its general build quality was noticeable. Plus a flip out screen works was nice to use over a VX1 that doesn't have one.
I filmed with my first VX21 from 2013-2016, which worked pretty much flawlessly (the only reason it died is that it got hit badly and no manual controls would work). The second one I have is still used for random projects outside of skateboarding.
If you're a skateboarder and looking to replicate the VX1 look (and sound) you can sort of do so, it just takes a little bit of working with the settings.
@@fecklessdoodooship Oh I totally understand that, as both a 1k and 2/2100, I know the differences and why one is chosen more than the other. For me I’ve found the easy to create the same colors using the built in setting, image to me looks sharper, bettor sensor, and it’s easier to use.
I had the Sony VX 2000 and VX 1000 use them on many professional shoots. People asked about the camera and I told them their digital lesson great. I told them digital made the camera smaller. Use those two cameras for over 10 years. Then I moved onto HDV before going to DSLR's and Mirrorless for video. Also the VX2000 has a DV Widescreen mode.
You’re right it does. But I don’t think that widescreen mode is native so it’s a bit degraded quality from the native 4:3
@@techtoremember8096 its not really. The only problem is the screens aren't 16:9 so the image is smaller on LCD and viewfinder.
I forget the model number of the first video camera I had, BUT I do recall it being a RCA VHS camera, that had a 1 lux video sensor in it!! THOUGH I will say that it only had a black and white viewfinder, and then the VHS was a huge camera, but in low light it was pretty amazing for indoor video recording!! I bought it in early 1990 too!! But the point is, back then there were cameras built to record in low light conditions, NOT just the Sony, and even the old Canon ES200, I had was pretty good in low light, which was an Hi 8MM with hifi stereo, dual mics, and a flip out screen. I bought the Canon in 1997!!!
Yes its true. Actually the sensors back then were bigger than they are now. Some of the cameras had 1/2" and 2/3" sensors which gave them a low light advantage. Its all relative though. Back then we say "wow, this isnt bad in low light " and then when we compare to today's cameras its funny to see how the perspective changes. As time went on each camera got better and better. Sony seemed to have the best low light technology in many peoples' opinion and this was super important for event videographers because those lights were so big, heavy and obtrusive!
It’s nice to see a thorough summary of this camera. I bought it when new and have never done much with it. Now I’m not sure if it has any utility compared to consumer cameras made in 2024. It seems a shame to let it collect dust.
I haven't used my VX2100 in years - time to pull it out of the bag!
I would say so!
Ohhh I miss my VX2100 that sadly I sold as needed the money at the time. I still own the Sony PD170 though and that’s basically the same just with pro version with XLR audio and DVCAM though I prefer standard Mini DV as it has been more reliable for me, which is rather ironic given DVCAM was supposed to be more reliable format. Great video from you once again and you did amazingly well the find this unit with the box and basically all the original stuff. Surly that pro remote didn’t come as standard as I’m sure that is the professional remote that engineers used to re program camera settings?
Thanks so much Chris ! You’re right that wired remote was not standard and I actually never even saw one like that but it’s pretty cool. Absolutely. I remember the PD170 with DVCAM- it’s funny you mention about it being LESS reliable than the 2100. It went for a lot more money didn’t it ? Just for those XLR inputs. ! A lot of people preferred DVCAM and I never really got why since the picture quality was identical but I think there were some other subtle benefits in editing ? Anyway yeah this cam was a blast from the past and still pretty fun to use. Thanks for watching and thanks for your comment !!
@@techtoremember8096 Yes I did see a video on TH-cam not too long ago about that remote. They are worth a good amount of money as it was used to do things like turn on features locked on Pal units like the ability to record via inputs that so many Pal units did not have where the US versions did due to tax laws and having a recording to tape feature via inputs made it a VCR not just a video camcorder so all down to stupid tax pricing laws. Yes the PD170 was probably another £1000 or so. As far as I know the only thing that made DVCAM "better" was it was supposed to have less drop outs but the downside was it went through tapes at a faster recording speed so tapes did not last as long as normal DV recording and the tapes cost a lot more.. Anyways I look forward to your next upload :)
Great to know ! Did not know that remote was so valuable. I’ll give it another look. It’s funny about the DVCAM drop out issue because there were so few drop outs anyway on MINI Dv! thanks again for your comments. More videos on the way ! Regards-
Great video! Refreshing jokes. Love the comparison to modern digital camera footage. I prefer the VX.
Right ? Thanks for the comment. Something vintage about the look which is great
Great video again TTR. I picked up a DCR-TRV27E Mini DV cam and considered maybe getting a VX or something later in the year but I may just hold off and get a Blackmagic or newer alpha series camera as I don't think I absolutely need a 3CCD unit. But collecting is addictive 😅
Hi there! Thank you for the comment..Aw, are you really going to get a Blackmagic over a CCD unit?! How could you! Yes, but seriously collecting is very addicting and requires a lot of restraint...We don't need 3 CCD units, but we definitely want to them ! Thanks again.
Great video, your chanel is underrated
I appreciate that ! Got some more stuff comlng so stay tuned !
I just found your video for the second time and I remember back in the day when I first watched it I loved your presentation. I know this may sound weird but did you ever used a super8 camera? I love both hi8 and super8 systems and the Beaulieu brand in super8 cameras is the most high standart brand. I would love to see a review from you, Kind regards, Eren
Hi Eren. Yes I do actually have a sort -of-review where I compared an 8mm film camera to 8k video
th-cam.com/video/cdH9vsT5gao/w-d-xo.html.
Its actually a Chinon I reviewed but I did hear that Beaulieu was a great brand. I believe my Dad may have had one. Thanks so much for your comment
Great video 👏 brilliant cottage and well presented. Insta sub
Thank you !
13:22 Whiskers.
VX2100 made me very crazy!!! 🤩🤩
Haha ! I hope a good crazy !
@@techtoremember8096 for me it's EXTREMELY HAPPILY CRAZY
Haha. Good to know !
I’m looking for the best way to capture FireWire, and a decently priced way aswell. What do you do to convert to FireWire?
I just purchased my vx2100 and am looking to purchase batteries and a battery charger but I am confused on which battery type would be compatible with the vx2100 , would you be able to help me out and let me know which batteries I should purchase and provide me with a link maybe!??
Hi. Sure. Try this link
Basically the Sony NP Batteries will work or compatible brands
www.ebay.com/itm/Batteries-or-LED-Dual-Charger-for-Sony-DCR-VX9-VX2100-VX9000-LED-Video-Light-/322857701739?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&_trksid=p2349624.m46890.l49286&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0
Or try this
www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/835998-REG/watson_b_4205_np_f770_lithium_ion_battery_pack.html
@@techtoremember8096 thank you!
We're so spoiled with options nowadays, this was one of the best video cameras back then, and is now beaten by an iPhone in everyone's pocket. But there's something about SD 3CCD MiniDV camcorder footage that can't be replicated with the glossy CMOS AI-enhanced cameras of today.
So well said !
Love my VX-2100, but my problem is getting the video off the MiniDV and into my computer for editing. I have to keep an old computer around just so I can transfer the video to a DVD, so that I can take it to my current computer for editing. I've tried many eBay solutions without success. Do you have any ideas for getting the video directly into my Windows 10 computer? (So I can retire that old XP computer.)
Hi there. I feel your pain. I keep a dedicated computer for that reason too. I have reviewed 2 products , Elgato and the clearclick. Feel free to check them out. They both do work. You met sacrifice a little quality for some convenience. !
@@techtoremember8096 Thank you for the quick replies!
@@techtoremember8096 Also: I found a 1 TB External HDD with 2 Firewire connections. Do you know if the VX-2100 will store to an external source (as many pro digital cameras will do) instead of the tape while recording?
I do not believe it can !
I thought the same about keeping an old PC but I recently learned there’s firewire cards for motherboards and that’s what I use on my windows 10 PC!
I remember doing a documentary in 2011 with one of these at night and was shooting under a street light, i ended up slowly moving away into the dark but didn't realize it until I took my eyes off and looked around that it was almost pitch black out. Really solidified this camera and a 3CCD setup ever since, still prefer it.
Reject modernity. Return to standard definition.
Hey. Yes. It was amazing as a low light camera - incredibly clean image and sharp !
I had a Sony min dv I always had to clean the tape head lasted me to 2010 got it in 2007 have you ever had a problem with min DV
Yes definitely. Quite often I would need to clean the heads. Always good having a head cleaner nearby !
@@techtoremember8096 that is something I never had I tried a cleaning tape but it ate the tape. my digital 8 never had that problem I will never go back to min DV
@@cyberlight22 sounds like more of the tape mechanism having a problem
Agreed!
I have just discovered 1 of these cameras in a cupboard at work. How well does it display on a modern 4k tv?
Hi there. Well first you need a way to play it on a tv. If your tv has traditional composite inputs (rare) you’re in luck if not you have to find an adapter. But that aside, this camera, since it’s high resolution for the time ,holds up pretty well. I like to watch in the original aspect ratio. (Not stretched). The smaller the screen size the better. But I think it looks pretty good considering it’s age!
wow i didnt know alpha one can go 32k iso and looks clean
It is !!!
Esa es la videocamara de la película de proyecto almanaque
The fact that it had a 3ccd sensor, imagine if it had a cmos sensor!
How true !
I am waiting for hdv like fx-1000.
Would you recommend the vx2000 or vx21000 for skateboarding and b-roll
Both cameras produce almost identical video so I would say either is fine
@@techtoremember8096 are there any reasons someone might chose one over the other
I would say maybe price. If you can get a better deal on one versus the other. And styling. The vx2000 silver is a little brighter color. Otherwise they are very very similar !
This version is superior to mini dv handycam mini dv DCR-VX 2000 and DCR-VX 1000?
Yes Sony advertised it to be but in fact it was a very very small upgrade
why does my 2100 upload in 25fps? like the frame rate on import is slower than i would like?Need help :(
Can you clarify what you mean by upload ?
@@techtoremember8096 when i import my footage from my vx / export camera my footage is always slower on QuickTime or whatever program i choose to upload on compared to the viewfinder
Try using another computer or another program to play back your file besides QuickTime
are you capturing through FireWire or AV?
I use FireWire
do you have any pro camcorders and I am talking big ones
I have a superbeta bmc110. Some other full size super vhs ones too !
When you see this kind of camera, the first thing that comes to mind is 🛹
how to set up color bars
Hey what is that Sony firewire recorder ?
That is the HDV700!
how did you get your hands on a boxed VX-2100?!?!
I got lucky ! Found it on eBay !
@@techtoremember8096 really lucky! what did you pay for it?
I think it was about $250!
videocam used to weight 15 pounds?!?
What’s the lens you are using on the camera
Just the built in lens (it’s not removable )
Are you willing to sell this camera?
Unfortunately I can’t get myself to part with it !
It's a skateboarding camera.
How to get these tape record videos to the computer
It was through FireWire into the computer
Someone know a page to get a charger to this camera?
www.amazon.com/Binval-4-Channel-Charger-NP-F550-NP-F570/dp/B0BKL2X325/ref=sr_1_4?crid=2P447PHO0O16&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.5faQLe150bKBC-WMiy5QB2jAj9R7y6vYwKN1HE4YRVS3snb4XmwHrSD6hfwiiBmH99rqGkjNocaXcHkb26VK3NkYPTg4MZ_tsjTHNlMKz5cmcJm9yIbp7XWox1gJQyhhVfIb6SBcWzYKi_ExByvpMI8CUZ2H0X4fldHHjUZJfRIdxj8gdZLnGy5FCUkZsNCAAFaxY7Jfn0YswDGwRQhl7RLlw1OFFR1EM5ekyOe4XfQm3xag0djXObyHp-lYEtGuCNH4EOB5BHSpRER4C8-Od-5t6nAHhdfHPcWbXLwNcgE.V4wqGoiQhi3hO9iT60mMP179xd4WfS3Au71KrUwLdGs&dib_tag=se&keywords=vx2100+battery+charger&qid=1723157128&s=electronics&sprefix=vx2100+battery+charge%2Celectronics%2C71&sr=1-4
in china sony pd170 500rmb 99新!
Sony = MEGA overexposed video.
Very informative 👍🎭🎭
Thank u