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I have a few of Big "E" Productions earlier (1994 and earlier) video tapes on various railroad operations. Although entire trains are usually shown (good!) and some of the commentary is interesting, I am not entirely happy with the quality of these tapes.Some problems include - out of focus shots, poor lighting/under exposure, and the often occuring "oops, we missed the head end" or "oops, we missed the train" (probably because someone was sleeping at the time?).I am considering purchasing some of their latest tapes. However, I am concerned that the above "problems" may still be present in their latest tapes. If so, then it is unlikely I will purchase further tapes from them.So, can anyone who has some of their latest tapes (say, within the last year) clarify if any of the above problems are still present, please?Thanks.
I think the problems you speak of are common amongest train video producers. I have only seen a few Big E tapes, thanks to Curt who let me borrow them, and for the most part I thought they were so so. I actually found seeing the whole train to be a bit boring. But despite that, I am thinking about buying a few of thiers anyways. Big E is one of the best in the industry and just like every other industry, no one is perfect. They will miss a train here and there and they may have some poorly shot scenes, but in the end, you still get a lot for your $$$.I normally buy from www.traintapes.com. Peter makes some outstanding videos and DVD's. If you have never seen one of his productions, pick one up, you won't be disapointed.Chris Bogley Syracuse New York
I haven't purchased any of his "new" stuff (from within the last year). I have about 12 Big E tapes or so, I think the latest being UP's Incredible Cascade Line, which is a great tape. Although, I agree that the photographic quality isn't always the best, say comparing to Pentrex, I still watch a lot of his stuff. The "night shots" unfortunately, are usually the worse. His information (train symbol, lengths, etc.) is always interesting. Whenever I'm considering purchasing on of his items, I'm always assuming that the photo-quality is going to be so-so. I do believe, however, that he has upgraded is camera equipment in the last several years. His stuff is definitely better than a lot of other tapes I've seen (Pro K Video, etc.)
Thanks for your comments.At this stage I am still undecided whether to purchase more tapes from Big E, as it is still not entirely clear whether there has been an overall improvement in quality for their latest releases.Regarding Highball Productions (www.traintapes.com), I have several of their tapes and DVD's. Their earlier releases were not of high quality (image-wise), but later releases showed an improved image quality. Image quality aside, I found HP videos to be OK overall, with one exception.The last purchase from HP was "Triple Track Two" which I consider to be the worst video they have produced! I suspect this video was a "rush job". First, the commentary was done by Peter instead of the usual commentator, and I found it a bit difficult to understand what he was saying! Second, the shots were done entirely on public property, there were no track side or cab shots. This suggests that permission from UP (and others) was not sought to shoot on private property. Third, about 85% of the shots were made on a grade crossings where you could hear the distracting clanging of the crossing warning bells. Fourth, most shots were of train approaching crossing with horns blasting away, then cut to train going away. Repeat. Repeat. Repeat! I found this to be monotonous and distracting with trains horns blasting most of the time. Not a good video.I have several Pentrex videos as well, and their image quality is very good indeed! Overall, very good quality videos.Anyway, can anyone comment further on the quality of Big E Productions latest videos please?
Well, with most train tape producers, it is hit or miss. I have 25 of Peters tapes, and highly enjoy most of them. I don't have Triple Track Two, nor do I plan on buying it. One visit to the flat plains of Nebraska was enough for me.Good luck with what you do decide to buy.Chris Bogley Syracuse New York
