Sony HDR-FX1 3-CCD HDV High Definition Camcorder w/12x Optical Zoom
from: Sony
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Photo : Sony HDR-FX1 3-CCD HDV High Definition Camcorder w/12x Optical Zoom |
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Rating: - * The FX-1 is the new standard bearer! ... When I first received this camera, I really put it through the paces trying it out in different light conditions, with different mics, etc. I was really impressed with how well it performed. Though it is not true HD, it is as close as I can currently get on my budget. With a full complement of features and presets, the FX-1 provides a tremendous amount of bang for my buck. Some reviewers mentioned the lack of XLRs for audio in, but in a wireless world is that really a problem? I use a Sennheiser G2 Wireless Lavalier Microphone Kit with a wireless adapter that snaps into the XLR port of any handheld or shotgun mic. I just plug the wireless receiver's miniplug directly into the FX-1. The auto-limiter has never failed me; the audio levels stay very consistent and I haven't seen it peak out once. I do also carry a BeachTek DXA-4 Dual XLR Adapter and an XLR cable in my kit in case of emergencies, but I've never once had to pull them out. Not a negative, just an FYI: the FX1 weighs almost 5 pounds, add a big battery, a shotgun mic and/or a light and this camera is probably way too heavy for the average prosumer-quality tripod. Additionally, if you use a steady-device, even with a basic harness, or a shoulder mount, you might your shoots a little more grueling than with your old camera. Ultimately, you may find as I did that you also have to upgrade some of your basic support equipment to accommodate the extra weight. Be sure to consider this in your budget. Great color, wide-screen, 1080i and great audio what more could you ask for around $3000? The FX-1 has set the mark that the others are now trying to emulate. Rating: - * Super Camera!!! ... My wedding cinematography studio purchased this camera just about a year ago. We love it! The quality is outstanding - the 16:9 is so beautiful. Easy to learn. Good weight and feel. The LCD is HUGH!!!! We are planning to purchase two more early next year! Rating: - * Superb!! ... Sony HDR-FX1 3-CCD HDV High Definition Camcorder w/12x Optical Zoom Just one word of warning, the camera can get heavy, especially if you use the standard battery it makes the camera very front heavy, but oh well. This camera is totally customizable in which it is either all auto, manual or some of both. It has 5 presets that are customizable. The cool features about these presets are that you can get a 24p, 30p (cineframe and cinetone), and 60i modes. The 24p and 30p refers to the "film" setting. You can record in true 16:9 widescreen or standard 4:3 letterbox. The high def mode will only do 16:9. I wouldn't listen to anyone who says the widescreen is a stretched 4:3, because its not. You can also hook in headphones, and an XLR adapter. This comes with a 2-hr battery. There are just 3 things I have beef with about this camera. One is the fact that it doesn't have XLR inputs - you'd think that after spending 3K on a camera you'd get some. 2nd: It records in 1080i. Not exactly terrible. 1080i is not true HD, but nor is 720p. True HD is 1920x1080p. But, recording at this high of resolution means spending more money. 3rd: This thing can't record in 24p. I'm a video production major and I love this camera. It not really just a consumer camera, but a professional consumer camera. I highly recommend it, its well worth your money. Yeah it has come cons, but I think every camera will. This is by far one of the best on the market. Rating: - * Sony's got a winner here! ... I have been using the DCRVX 1000 for over 10 years and it has done well. However, the FX1 is so far superior in every way. The only feature I miss is the "overlap". So far, the color, the detail, the feel (a bit heavier than the VX1000) are even better than I expected. HD is as close to reality as possible. I have 2 weddings that I will soon record, and I feel confident that the FX1 will perform without fail. I recommend this camcorder for the very serious videographer. It is priced $2 thousand less than the VX1000 sold for in "96 at $5 thousand. Technology has improved while costs have fallen. A good buy at 3 grand. Rating:  - * Great for short films! ... Got my hands on one of these babies this weekend for a no-budget short film. Loved it. So easy to use, and the picture is great. It's true, the finished look is not "cinematic", which is a fair criticism, but for the price it is great if you're looking to upgrade to a high-def digital picture. Watched the playback on a 16:9 widescreen TV before editing and it was beautiful. However, you can't rely on the auto-functions. Tried using auto-focus and auto-iris at the start, but ended up doing both manually for the most part. A small complaint considering a real filmmaker shouldn't be using them anyway. Otherwise, a great camera. |
