| | | | - Three 1/3-inch wide-aspect-ratio advanced HAD CCD imagers for true-to-life color rendering
- Play and record interlaced high-definition video at resolutions up to 1440 x 1080 for professional-quality video
- 12x optical zoom with Super SteadyShot Optical Stabilization System
- 3.5-inch wide precision hybrid SwivelScreen LCD
- Record at either 30 frames per second or, for a film-like feel, at 24 frames per second
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| | | | Product Description: Sony Handycam(R) HDR-FX1, the first true 1080i high definition camcorder, is the perfect introduction to the world of high definition video. Record your most intimate moments in the highest quality. With advanced features such as the newly developed wide 3 sensor 1/3" CCD, 72mm Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T lens and Real Time Codec engine, the HDR-FX1 is equipped to handle every video task. Relive your memories in vivid HDTV quality colors and clarity. This may not be the camera to use for family and touring. If you're into professional or serious creative use, this camcorder offers vast opportunities that were previously unavailable at this class. You've been waiting for your chance. Here it is! 3.5 LCD Viewing monitor Manual control of camcorder functions allow settings of the camera to be adjusted so that creative effects can be achieved while filming 12x Optical Zoom with 4-way zoom capability for different situations Widescreen LCD monitor lets you see every detail as you shoot in 16 - 9 mode High-performance Down Conversion Function Precision DV- wide Recording Personal Menu Battery Information Continual shooting time Sony iLINK (HDV/DV) Connector for easy video transfer to a PC or Macintosh computer for DV edit and enhancement - and back again SteadyShot Active Lens System (Menu) Shot Transition Picture Profile - 6 Picture Profiles - You can set each of 6 Picture Profiles with Color Level/Color Phase/Sharpness/Skin Tone Detail/AE Shift/AGC Limit/Auto Iris Limit/WB Shift/AWB Sensitivity/Cinematone Gamma/Cineframe |  | | | |

Average Rating : 
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. Customer Review : |  |