2nd low-cost camera for on-site shoots

Question

I use the Panasonic HVX-200p for my studio work which is almost all green screen and usually shot at 720p30 or 720p60. I capture direct to my workstation using OnLocation CS4 via firewire.
Now I need a 2nd camera to capture on-site, outdoors mostly, but possibly some indoors. End use is educational DVD's and perhaps online courses, probably in H.264, so I don't need broadcast quality.
I need to go cheap on this because of my budget. I have little knowledge, but how about an inexpensive DSLR? My concern with these is that the codec is AVCHD [I think] and I've read about how this strains the PC requirements, is not easily digested (unless that's improved with CS6), etc. (see my Profile for workstation specs). Also, I'm not sure how it would look with the Panasonic keyed footage.
There is another option: carry a laptop with OnLocation CS4 installed and capture with it using the Panasonic. Granted, it is cumbersome and hinders in other ways, but it is possible. This choice, if acceptable, would require me to buy a laptop with a decent battery life (my existing laptop is an older, core 2 duo & the battery died long ago). I'd like to hear opinions on this because I don't know if this option would be cheaper than a new camera and/or give me better quality.
Anyway, I think you get the idea. I am most grateful for all recommendations. I am willing to consider used cameras, if that works.
Paul
P.S. I need at least one wireless microphone.
Message was edited by: Paul Stark

Answer 1

Hi Paul,
Both my cam's are panosonic, and though a little above the one in question in terms of price range, i can give a little feedback on what is similar between them.
Apart from the dreaded AVCHD problems CS5 and early versions of CS6 had, you shouldn't have to much trouble with it.
Both of my cams;
AG-AC130
Panasonic AG-AC130 AVCCAM HD Handheld ... - B&H Photo Video
& AG-AC160
Panasonic AG-AC160 AVCCAM HD Handheld ... - B&H Photo Video
use the dual SDHC cards, apart from making sure you copy the entire card, you will be fine. The file structure has to be completely intact otherwise timecode, audio and spanning clips will get messed up and cause you headaches.
My cam's are extremely good in low light, stomp all over the famed Sony Z7's of yesteryear. As long as your not shooting anything fast moving, if you need the light lower the shutter speed to 1/25 and open the iris right up you will get decent footage in lower light situations.
One thing you won't get in that model is the DRS function which is revolutionary to say the least, in a nutshell it supresses overexposure and boosts shadows.
In addition you'll have to xlr inputs so add wireless, or even a boom mic (much better price to quality ratio) with ease.
The GoPro's are amazing, but in my opinion totally sh*t in low light situations. People will argue that the newer models are much better, but I hate any grain. Another option with your low light requirements would be to add one of these Z96 LED, They are amazing for the size, easy to attach to a hotshoe, dimmable and unbelievably bright. Color temp isn't bad either, can be a bit cold\blue at full kick but has two magnetic diffusers ( i usually just manually change the temp in cam but lower budget cameras don't often have this function). Even doing an Auto WB would help to correct the temp.
Hope this helps you a bit
Troy