The "B" Camera (often used for close ups and / or cutaways) is the Sony SR12 which conversely records on Hard Drive. While it saves on tape costs, there are still acquisition charges (also known as Log and Transfer) that average out to about 1 Hr of logging per 1Hr of footage shot; therefore logging fees still apply.
The "B" Camera (often used for close ups / stationary and / or cutaways) is the Sony PDX-10 which conversely handles bright, out-door events superbly.
Both "A" & "B" Cameras are capable of DVCam recording (higher resolution but turns a 1 Hr tape into a 42 minute tape).
We often refer to our cameras as letters in relation to their coverage emphasis. An "A" camera or A-Cam is regarded as the primary camera doing the most work (zooming in for close up's or following the lead actor / MC at an event for example). Our "B" camera refers to our second camera operator that is covering a wider angle of the action or following a second coverage zone (perhaps shooting a Power Point screen or second staging area).
Our favorite option in covering an event (either live and / or taped), is to use 3 cameras with the A Cam & B Cam working opposite close up's and a stand alone C-Cam getting the wide angle shot. In the editing process, this gives us the best possibilities (especially with music). But this process often leads to more editing hours so please keep it in mind if you're working on a strict time line.
