A Tale of Two PTZ Cameras: Newtek UHDPTX and Aida PTZ-NDI-X18B in Action
Sometimes, life presents you with unexpected gifts. That was precisely the case when we got the Newtek UHDPTX cameras as part of an educational bundle along with our new TriCaster Mini 4K. They're pricey toys, and not something we would've usually splurged on. But, as they say, fortune favors the brave!
Newtek UHD PTZ NDI|HX 4K camera - Big image, big price tag
One thing I've learned throughout my time in the field of video production: the pricier option doesn't always mean the best one. Enter the Aida PTZ-NDI-X18B, our other major player in the PTZ camera field. Lighter on the pocket and the scale, this little powerhouse arrived ready to surprise us with its capabilities.
The Aida PTZ-NDI-X18B is smaller, lighter, and easier on the budget
For most of our needs in the performing arts theater and the gymnasium, the Aida showed consistency and reliability, like that loyal friend who always shows up when you need them. Not only does it offer an aesthetically pleasing image, but it also offers an array of control options within its web interface. The intuitive setup and lighter weight also made the Aida a breeze to mount, and it fit into our network like a glove.
Now don't get me wrong - the Newtek UHDPTX is a formidable tool. The 4K image and superior optical zoom mean it comes into its own when shooting in larger venues, capturing our school's chorus, band, orchestra concerts, and student honors nights with a certain elegance. However, it does seem to struggle in low light conditions. During one particular chorus concert, it lost focus and, much to my dismay, switched off mid-show. I still remember my adrenaline-fueled sprint to reboot it - twice!
Both offer power via a single Ethernet, but the Newtek requires POE++ to maintain full performance.
And while the Newtek camera does have a more "high-quality" feel, its weight can be a hurdle when you need mobility and flexibility in a shoot. The Aida, on the other hand, with its compactness, can be conveniently perched on tripods and wheeled around campus, making it a dream companion for mobile shooting.
Despite the Newtek camera's clear win in terms of 4K image quality, in our world, where we rarely require a 4K stream, the Aida shines bright. I can't overstate the value of a cost-effective, reliable camera that delivers on image quality and flexibility.
If I were to recommend a camera to a fellow professional, I'd make my case based on the specific needs of their workflow. The Newtek camera could be a gem for high-resolution, stationary shoots with adequate lighting. But for those on a budget seeking reliability, mobility, and consistent image quality, I'd wholeheartedly vouch for the Aida PTZ-NDI-X18B.
In the end, there's no one-size-fits-all in the world of video production. It's all about understanding your needs and finding the right tool that will be your faithful ally in capturing those magical moments. Our journey with the Newtek UHDPTX and the Aida PTZ-NDI-X18B has been enlightening, to say the least, and we're all set to embark on more filming adventures with these tools in hand.
Meet the Author, Josh Dempsey
Josh Dempsey is a video and film teacher at Marietta High School in Marietta, Georgia. With nearly 20 years of experience in the classroom, Josh is just as excited as his students to keep learning about the power and possibilities of this visual medium. He invites you to follow his students and their work online by following them on social media @bdn_marietta.
Josh loves traveling with his wife, Megan, and their two kids, and more pets than should be allowed. If you want to follow their adventure and get some tips and tricks for RV travel and epic road trips, head over to their website at eastrollswest.com.
Adam, your resident IB film teacher, wants to help your students walk the talk. How understanding the Big 4 (mise-en-scene, editing, cinematography, and sound design) can transform student analysis and filmmaking.