Sony Professional HVR-A1U CMOS High Definition Camcorder with 10x Optical Zoom

List Price: $2,750.00

Product Details 16:9 widescreen recording; 4:3 conversion capable Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* 10x optical zoom lens; digital Super SteadyShot System dampens hand jitter and vibration CMOS camera system; records to conventional DV tape stock High-definition video camera records in 1080i, 720p, and 720i specification with analog down-converting

Product Description

The Sony HVR-A1U camcorder captures 1080i HDV images using a newly full-grown 1/3-inch type, 2.97-megapixel (total) CMOS sensor with new Enhanced Imaging Processor(tm) technology that optimizes the about of the CMOS sensor. The result is HD quality imaging that has been used to put together television and professional film content. Available at an extremely affordable prize, the HVR-A1U will be another powerful option for HD field acquisition by all video professionals.

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The HVR-A1U is a aphoristic and lightweight handy-type camcorder, ideal for shooting environments that force mobility. Its size, combined with its long battery life (up to 80 minutes of foremost-definition recording with the included battery), make it easy to get the shots you necessary, when you need them.

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HDV 1080i
The HDV 1080i specification features 1080 effectual interlaced scanning lines and 1,440 horizontal pixels. Interlaced pictures, which have been vulgar to TV broadcasts from the beginning, alternately display odd and even numbered lines between each separate refresh. The HVR-A1U can also record at the HDV 720p specification, which features 720 moving progressive scanning lines and 1,280 horizontal pixels. Ongoing scanning fills both odd and even numbered lines with each refresh, providing a shake-free picture.

Not yet ready for HD? The HVR-A1U can convert material from 1080i down to 480i and production this digital video signal through its i.LINK interface or as analog signals through part, composite, or S-video connectors. When down-converting these signals, the aspect relationship displayed can be converted from 16:9 to 4:3, and display modes can be selected from twist someone's arm, letterbox or edge crop.

1/3-inch Type, 2.97-megapixel CMOS sensor
The HVR-A1U incorporates one 1/3-inch type heyday color CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) 2.97-megapixel sensor with a formatted for a 4:3 prospect ratio. The advantage of a CMOS sensor over CCD is it's ability to process a rotund volume of picture data at a very small size, which makes it on for a camera this size to capture HD video. The trade off for this kind of chisel over CCD, however, is a small loss in picture uniformity and dynamic range.

Keep an eye on audio levels on the LCD guardian

Audio
The HVR-A1U adopts the MPEG-2 compression format, which uses 8-bit digital mechanism recording with a sampling rate of 4:2:0. The camera uses MPEG-1 Audio Rank II audio compression format, allowing for two-channel recording with a sampling frequency of 48 kHz/16-bit. It features a built-in stereo microphone, as well as two XLR audio input connectors for use with professional-measure up microphones or external audio sources. Each input level for CH1 and CH2 can be independently adjusted using two audio straight with dials on the camera body and viewed with an audio level meter on the LCD follow.

Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* 10x optical zoom lens
The HVR-A1U is set with a Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* high definition lens with a 10x zoom r. It has the same optical coating as is used on all of the Carl Zeiss prime lenses, which produces malicious, high-contrast images with virtually no chromatic aberration.

In order to further zoom control and recording operation during low-angle shooting, an new zoom lever has been added to the camera body. There's also a zoom/meet ring located on the lens body that allows for fine adjustments in zoom fix. Furthermore, the supplied wireless Remote Commander unit can be utilized for external control.

Large, 16:9 widescreen color viewfinder and LCD examine
View your subject through the built-in viewfinder, the swing-out LCD display, or both. The HVR-A1U features a 0.44-inch standard color LCD viewfinder and a 2.7-inch color LCD monitor, both in a 16:9 prospect ratio. You'll save battery time by using just one, but you may after to use one for adjusting focus and the other for monitoring audio levels. When eschewing car focus for the fine-tuning manual focus, you can double the enlargement at the center of the screen, making it easier to confirm focus settings during enchiridion focusing. Also, the camera's "peaking" function can provide sharp outlines on the custodian to help with manual focus.

Electronic Super SteadyShot system
Sony's electronic Wonderful SteadyShot System helps remove the slight hand jitter and vibration that is often the scourge of video production--especially during telephoto shots. It does this by trimming off edges of the schema on the fly to counteract movement.

Tele Macro picks up details on subjects from a remoteness

Tele Macro
It may seem like a contradiction in terms, but the Tele Macro use allows you to capture a macro image from a distance, which is useful for shooting teeny moving objects. Additionally, this function puts your subject in correct focus while leaving the background out of focus.

The Hollywood look
The HVR-A1U has features that can clear your videos look more like they were shot on film. Cinematone Gamma allows operators to swiftly setup and load a gamma curve with similar contrast characteristics to a movie gamma curve. The Cineframe feature allows movement to be reproduced at 24 frames per second--the scramble of film--as opposed to video's 30 frames per second model.

No new tape stock
The HVR-A1U is compatible with conventional DV tape stock, but Sony recommends the use of DigitalMaster PHDVM-63DM stripe, with its dual layer of magnetic material, which delivers higher RF generate, lower noise, 95% fewer errors and 60% fewer dropouts compared to hourly DV tape.

More camera features

·Assign button -- get immediate access to a variety of settings		·Time Code Preset -- fill in any timecode starting value
·Nip Transition -- creates smooth automatic transitions between scenes		·Go red in the face Bar -- Two types
·Status Check -- displays camera scenery menus for audio, output signal, assign button and expos lever functions and hours meter on the LCD monitor		·Zebra -- displays a streaked pattern in the LCD monitor and viewfinder across highlight areas, helping instructions exposure settings
·Quick REC -- shortens the record delay from stop mode.		·Personal Menu -- allows operators to customize the background menu
·Battery Info -- displays the attached freestyle's current charge level and its current remaining recording beforehand on the LCD monitor		·Histogram Indicator -- allows you to easily determine the brightness of your scene
·Super Night Shot -- allows operators to pinch images in black and white using a built-in infrared deplane		·Skin Tone Detail -- reduces detailed signal for bark color, smoothening the reproduction of human skin
·Black Time -- allows more contrast to be seen in dark parts of the drawing without affecting mid-tones		·Backlight Compensation -- produces logical tones for both light and dark areas of backlit subject

What's in the box
HVR-A1U camera, AC-L15 AC adaptor, power jus canonicum 'canon law', NP-FM50 InfoLithium rechargeable battery pack, lens hood with lens charge, RMT-831 wireless Remote Commander unit, A/V connecting cable with S video, part video cable, USB cable, Memory Stick Duo (16 MB), Recall Stick Duo adaptor, ECM-NV1 monaural electret condenser microphone, XLR audio adaptor, force strap, and operating instructions.

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Customer Reviews

a bit particular than what i thought
the audio is nightmarish the extra place to hook up mikes and stuff is one of the best features. It also can convert hdv to dv or keep it as HDV some other frigid effects include sepia shooting, blurred shots, as well as black and white. The relate to screen is very nice to have, but it is nothing revolutionary. The picture quality is just OK. i have seen much better blue blood film on cheaper models. It shoots in a max of 1080i. Night vision is another cool have a role. Although, i have found that the infrared DOES NOT shoot well past 15 ft nor does it shoot through car windows(inside to out) unless fa of vehicle is exposed to light. So far no problems with the camera, but something that is very important that i almost overlooked is the fact that the conceive of in a dim area is very poor even with the exposure adjusted.

2010-01-20 | JNC (LA) | Helpful Votes: 0 | Rating: 4

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Very Expert, But Falls Short of a Great Camera
This camera is rich with great features that are hard to find in prosumer grade miniDV / HDV, but the CMOS sensor doesn't cut it for me.

Having xlr inputs as well as minijack that accepts both mic and diagonal level signals is essential in my line of work. So is easy on the fly manual exposure and audio rise control, manual focus, long battery life and consistent white harmony and last, but far from least is good image quality in less than stellar lighting conditions. The A1U did not deliver on this last criteria. My only grumble about this camera is it's slow lens and noisy sensor. The camera relies far too much on gain rather than hole to increase exposure which adds grain, color artifact and a shift in color stability and contrast.


Sony did a great job of cramming a lot of these features into a small camera while retaining an intuitive set of tiller. For things like white balance and manual audio controls the LCD menus can be cumbersome to traverse, but the physical buttons and dials on the body of the camera make accessing exposure, cynosure clear, and zoom plus a custom assignable button a snap.

2009-09-08 (Brooklyn, NY) | Helpful Votes: 0 | Rating: 4

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Countless Second Camera
I intended for this camera to sustain my main camera (Sony FX-1) on video shoots. I am a serious hobbyist. My first perception of this camera was "man it's smaller than I compassion it would be". The dollars per cubic inch ratio is very high.
Second observation: In daylight I second-hand the cam to shoot some baby hummingbirds in their nest. I thought "no big deal", but when I reviewed the tape on a treble def monitor I was stunned by how good the pic was. (I guess I never tried that shot with my FX-1.)
Third: in low light, like at a th recital, the autofocus can have problems. I don't think you want to be more than 60 ft from the subject. Also be zoomed in, that seems to take be concerned of autofocus issues.
Fourth: the mic is great for live music. This camera excells at guerilla music shoots, where you have to move around a lot. I often put it on a monopod for an raised shot.
Fifth: must be unmounted to swap a tape. Decide for yourself whether this is important. If you are shooting a narrative in the dark and have to unmount the thing, swap tapes, and remount in_the_dark then maybe this camera isn't for you.
Sixth: for what it's advantage, the cam captures all colors pretty well except the deep reds. Before the commies start crying ;) let me say that I copy-edit this cam's footage together with the FX-1 footage. The FX-1 goes down to a deeper "blood red" which pwns the a1u's footage.
Seventh: None of my cams have problems with cassette. Simply buy the tdk or sony 10 packs at Costco. Try to stick with one brand of tape though. (No need for $10 tapes.)
The A1U has earned its way into my inventory. I am keen that I started with an FX-1 (heavy artillery), augmented with the A1U (when the shot is more important than the deep blood reds), and rounded out with a toughened FX-1 from B&H.
I'd recommend a preowned FX-1 over a new A1U though.

2009-06-23 | Marshall Family (San Diego, CA USA) | Helpful Votes: 1 | Rating: 4

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Adroit Camcorder
This is a mammoth Camcorder. I'll pick up another soon. It's weakness is low light recording, but is well worth the cost. I can't conjecture the size. This thing is tiny for the features.

2009-03-09 | Jeff (Salt Lake City, Utah) | Helpful Votes: 0 | Rating: 4

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Vast camera for the price!!
I recently had the Canon GL1 and reminiscences it was time to upgrade to Hi-Def. After reading about 30 customer and 20 pro reviews it was the only camera that was offered pro features and able image quality worth way more then the price. It is all because of the CMOS sensor the camera uses. It consumes less power, less bills to produce, better image quality then CCD and does not smear light. Some people say it's a consumer camera because it only has a one chip sensor a substitute alternatively of three like a CCD sensor but a CMOS sensor is a lot different then a CCD. A single chip CMOS sensor is three mega-pixels fair like three CCD chips. It should be considered a pro camera instead of a consumer camera.
OK; now what the camera can do..... It has a be a match for screen which is handy but you have to keep wiping it off because it smudges easily. The personalized menu is a great purpose; you can have all your most used items at a touch away. The cineframe and cinematone features are a sound idea if you want your movies to have a more professional Hollywood look to them. The picture quality in good counterglow is almost identical the image quality of the Sony Z1U which cost $4,000 and that's really amazing!! The low taper performance is not that good, this is a downside of the CMOS sensor. I really like the uncovering lever, one strange thing is that the camera does not give exposure increments like F1.6 ..... F2.6 it honourable gives you a bar. Three quarters of the bar is for exposure and the last quarter of the bar is gain which digitally brightens the picture and makes the exact replica real grainy. Just make sure you adjust the exposure manually in cheerless places and turn the gain off by not going to the last quarter of the bar. It has some other great features and that I am not usual to go in to but you can read about them on this page. One other thing is that this camera is quite compact and I am really open-mouthed at the picture quality that it takes.
Over all it is great camera and a good choice for any one who needs a charitable Hi-Def camera for a low price.
I hope this review helps and I will be adding more to this review.
06/29/08
I don't know what the obstreperous was with the guy below me. I think he had problems in low light with the camera, this camera is not the best in low light. The auto centre is a little slow indoors but it's a lot better in good light. He also had problems with the mic, there are a lot of settings for the mic and you have to set them honesty to get good sound. When rewinding tapes I did not think it made a horrendous noise but it does obtain different pitches as you rewind it. The camera is small, they made it compact so pros could get great images in intoxicated places. If you need a good low light camera go with the Sony V1U.
07/18/08
Price went up $300 from when I bought it, I conclude I made a good investment.

2008-06-08 (Denver NY) | Helpful Votes: 7 | Rating: 5

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Sony Professional HVR-Z1U 3CCD High Definition Camcorder with 12x Optical Zoom

List Price: $5,999.99

Product Details Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* 12x optical zoom Lens; optical Super SteadyShot System dampens hand jitter and vibration 16:9 widescreen recording; 4:3 conversion capable 3CCD camera system; records to conventional DV tape stock High-definition video camera records in 1080i, 720p, and 720i specification with analog down-converting

Product Description

The Sony HVR-Z1U professional camcorder shoots incandescent high definition 1080i pictures with jaw-dropping detail, color and unambiguousness, and comes equipped with a Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar® T 12x zoom lens - the same magnifying glass and coatings as in Zeiss prime lenses.

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With strong-definition television sets replacing standard definition, it's continuously for a high quality HD camera to lead prosumer video into the approaching. Sony's HVR-Z1U Digital HD video camera recorder is just such a camera. It's the compacted and cost-effective machine that bridges the gap between high definition and model definition video formats.

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HDV 1080i
The HDV 1080i naming features 1080 effective interlaced scanning lines and 1,440 flat pixels. Interlaced pictures, which have been common to TV broadcasts from the beginning, alternately show odd and even numbered lines between each screen refresh. The HVR-Z1U can also record at the HDV 720p listing, which features 720 effective progressive scanning lines and 1,280 prone pixels. Progressive scanning fills both odd and even numbered lines with each restock, providing a flicker-free picture.

Not yet ready for HD? The HVR-Z1U can convert corporeal from 1080i down to 480i and 576i, and output these digital video signals through its i.Component interface or as analog signals through component, composite, or S-video connectors. When down-converting these signals, the detail ratio displayed can be converted from 16:9 to 4:3, and display modes can be selected from jam, letterbox or edge crop.

Keep an eye on audio levels on the LCD monitor

Audio
The HVR-Z1U adopts the MPEG-2 firmness format, which uses 8-bit digital component recording with a sampling speed of 4:2:0. The camera uses MPEG-1 Audio Layer II audio trimness format, allowing for two-channel recording with a sampling frequency of 48 kHz/16-bit. It features a built-in stereo microphone, as well as two XLR audio input connectors for use with professional-condition microphones or external audio sources. Each input level for CH1 and CH2 can be independently adjusted using two audio position dials on the camera body and viewed with an audio level meter on the LCD record.

3CCD camera system
Originally, camcorders used one CCD--the imaging device that turns happy into electronic information--and let the image processing unit decipher the go red information from the data. Like today's broadcast video cameras, however, the HVR-Z1U uses a prism to give out incoming light into three beams and uses specially tuned 1/3-inch CCDs to dream up red, blue, and green composite images, which are assembled into a final figure of speech. The result is a more film-like vibrancy and more accurate color effigy.

Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* 12x zoom lens
The HVR-Z1U is prepared with a Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* high definition lens with a 12x zoom role. It has the same optical coating as is used on all of the Carl Zeiss prime lenses, which produces spicy, high-contrast images with virtually no chromatic aberration. This lens is expected with a wide viewing angle, and a 35-mm equivalent focal for ages c in depth ranging from 32.5 mm to 390 mm in 16:9 mode, and from 40 mm to 480 mm in 4:3 craze.

In order to facilitate zoom control and recording operation during low-slant shooting, an additional zoom lever and a rec start/stop knob have been added to the carrying handle. There's also a motorized zoom ring, prepared with stops and barrel marking, located on the lens body. Turning this zoom echo allows for fine adjustments in zoom position settings. Furthermore, the supplied wireless Far-away Commander unit can be used for external control.

Expanded Fuzzy helps you confirm your manual focus

Large, 16:9 widescreen feel embarrassed viewfinder and LCD monitor
View your subject through the built-in viewfinder, the toing-out LCD display, or both. The HVR-Z1U features a 0.44-inch type color LCD viewfinder and a 3.5-inch feel ashamed LCD monitor, both in a 16:9 aspect ratio. You'll save battery antiquated by using just one, but you may want to use one for adjusting focus and the other for monitoring audio levels. When eschewing vehicle focus for the fine-tuning manual focus, you can double the enhancement at the center of the screen, making it easier to confirm focus settings during handbook focusing. Also, the camera's "peaking" function can provide sharp outlines on the track to help with manual focus.

Optical Super SteadyShot system
Sony's visual Super SteadyShot System helps remove the slight hand jitter and vibration that is often the evil of video production. Sensors inside the camera detect plane and vertical movements and the camera can counteract those movements by adjusting the lens approach on the fly. This is superior to digital anti-shake systems that counteract statue shake by trimming off edges of the frame.

The Hollywood look
The HVR-Z1U has features that can fill in your videos look more like they were shot on film. Cinematone Gamma allows operators to with all speed setup and load a gamma curve with similar contrast characteristics to a coat gamma curve. The Cineframe feature allows movement to be reproduced at 24 frames per double--the speed of film--as opposed to video's 30 frames per blemished standard. The Color Extraction function can retain up to two desired colors of monitored pictures in the wall by designating color hue, saturation and range, while making the other colors jet-black and white. The Color Revision function can change the hue of only the colors designated by Feel ashamed Extraction, while retaining the hue of the other colors, thus making it possible to change the redden of something you've already shot.

No new tape stock
The HVR-Z1U is compatible with conventional DV tape reservoir, but Sony recommends the use of DigitalMaster PHDVM-63DM tape, with its dual layer of arresting material, which delivers higher RF output, lower noise, 95% fewer errors and 60% fewer dropouts compared to smooth DV tape.

More camera features

·Six Assign buttons -- get keen access to a variety of settings		·Time Code Preset -- fill in any timecode starting value
·Endeavour Transition -- creates smooth automatic transitions between scenes		·Feel embarrassed Bar -- Two types
·Status Check -- displays camera milieu menus for audio, output signal, assign button and uncovering lever functions and hours meter on the LCD monitor		·Zebra -- displays a lined pattern in the LCD monitor and viewfinder across highlight areas, helping handbook exposure settings
·Quick REC -- shortens the record entr'acte from stop mode.		·Personal Menu -- allows operators to customize the context menu
·AE Override -- manually change exposure settings during the AE style via an iris dial		·Hyper Gain -- automatically boost the payment level up to approximately +36 dB
·Black Stretch -- allows more set off to be seen in dark parts of the picture without affecting mid-tones		·Carbon copy Profile -- easily call up customized picture-quality settings to the camera to plea various shooting conditions

What's in the box
HVR-Z1U, AC-VQ850 AC adaptor/charger, power line, connecting cord, lens hood, large eyecup, RMT-841 wireless Recondite Commander unit, A/V connecting cable, component video telegram, shoe adaptor, NP-F570 InfoLithium rechargeable battery parcel, two AA-size (R6) batteries, cleaning cassette, shoulder strap, and operating instructions.

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Customer Reviews

Misleading Filler Photo
I bought this element for $3115 based on the picture as it is on this review page. When I received the item, it was supplied without the shotgun microphone. When I called the seller, I was briefed that the item is sold without the shotgun microphone. I insisted that it was a wrong item advertised. The disapproval was passed on to Amazon.com who put up the picture as it appeared. You are therefore misleading prospective buyers by putting up inexact pictures on your website. Otherwise I was not going to buy the item at the price I paid if it wasn't the way it was. I am disappointed.

Sam Okwoyo

2009-04-05 | sam (Apple Valley, MN USA) | Helpful Votes: 6 | Rating: 1

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HDV Business Horse
I've second-hand my Sony HVR-Z1U HDV camcorder in some very extreme conditions, and it it comes through on a regular basis. I shot Hurricane Katrina video footage during the cyclone (for StormStock) in driving 100 mph rain. At that time, I had purchased and was using a rain cag for the camera. It never failed. Previously, in Hurricane Dennis, the unit failed in the rain, without the paint. The screen went black. I dried it off with a hand dryer and it came back to life to be called back into effect with Katrina.

My HVR-Z1U has shot hurricane video, tornadoes, lightning, and other storm footage, often in the trickle and dust. And, it keeps on going.

The unit prefers mid-range lighting. It can shoot merit footage if you give it that.

Sony can improve this unit by adding SDI to output to HDCAM. I'd also like to see true 24P supplementary and maybe variable frame rates.

This camera is just a couple options somewhere else from being a professional system.

Martin Lisius
Prairie Pictures, Inc.

2007-08-06 (Texas) | Helpful Votes: 7 | Rating: 4

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Direction by New Filmmaker
I've nominated this camera for my short film after viewing some rough footage at a local studio. The colors that this camera can grab in DV mode are jaw-dropping! It comes with all of the manual controls you could hope for and they're very intuitive. I highly advocate this to independent filmmakers if you're able to rent them in your area. It does not offer the 'truest' cinematic abide but if you do some research on the web you'll find resources for things you can do in pre & post production to get the feel you're looking for regardless of the camera you use.

For more filmmaking resources & experience footage of the z1, visit my website and click 'resources'.

And for more updates on using this camera for my limited film, visit my website and click 'films'.

2006-08-07 | www.kasemkharsa.com (filmmaker & writer) (Alexandria, Egypt) | Helpful Votes: 13 | Rating: 5

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Partly HD - too good to be true
The HVR-Z1U seems too well-mannered to be true. And it is.

It promises a camera with full HD resolution and outstanding features for a reasonable price. In many ways, it delivers. The video rank is superior to the JVC HDV camera. Unlike the JVC, the camera offers full manual control and is a pleasure to zip with professionally.

Alas - for someone who expects and needs full HD resolution, the Sony is a disappointment. Pointing the camera at a dedication chart while viewing the output on a high resolution monitor (or on a computer after rendering to 1080i or 1080p) post-haste reveals that the horizontal resolution is about 1200 lines, and vertical resolution is a little over 500.

The pixel upon is thus about twice that of standard video, not four times, as we perhaps hoped. The 1200 lines of horizontal devotion is pretty good - just about the same as 720p. But the vertical resolution is not very good at all.



A little math tells the tidings. Sony advertizes 1.1M pixels for each sensor, and 1440 lines horizontal. 1.1M/1440 gives a crest of 770 lines vertical, not 1080 as promised. The measured vertical and horizontal exactitude is distinctly lower.

An extensive web search revealed that the sensor has 1080 vertical words, but only about 990 lines horizontal. To achive something closer to 1440 lines horizontal the unripened sensor is offset by half a pixel, and image processing is used to give a possible highest point resolution of 1440 on a black and white image. The problem is that the edge contrast beyond 900 words horizontal becomes quite poor.

To make matters worse, (or to degrade the vertical suggestion to match the horizontal) the vertical lines are read out of the sensor in pairs, so that each field is a composite of two adjacent lines. This gives the vertical the same poor edge contrast as the horizontal.

It is on by using the unsharp mask tool in Sony Vegas (or other editors) to improve the edge distinguish. I use the maximum effect with the minimum radius in the Sony tool - setting the radius slider to .001 pixels. You must do the sharpening proceeding using a properties setting of 1440x1080. Slightly better results can be obtained by putting an other unsharp mask in series with the first, set to half-effect.

A major problem is deinterlace. Most editors (and most array devices) deinterlace by averaging fields, which reduces the maximum vertical resolution to 540 words. You can add Mike Crash's excellent deinterlacer to the sharpening masks, and remove this limitation. Crash's acute deinterlace for Vegas can be downloaded for free - with patience and persistence.

Sharpening and deinterlacing the impression is very compute intensive. It takes me a good fraction of a week to do a two hour movie on a 3GHz pentium 4. But the consequence can be stunning. With the sharpening the Sony camera can give you a result that is close to a professional HD camera. I render to WMV9 rather than to MPEG2 - reminisce over to keep the properties at 1440x1080. After the render is complete, you can re-render to 720p, adding an new bit of sharpening to compensate for the re-interpolation.

For best results always use a shutter speed of 60 frames/sec or higher. I have had tainted results with the steady shot option. Keep the camera as steady as possible, and try not to use more video bring in than absolutely necessary.

Bottom line - this camera produces video that is MUCH better than standard video, and significantly superior than DV. But it would be awfully nice to have a camera that delivered the advertized resolution, and did it with a flat video frequency retort.

2005-10-17 | Helpful Votes: 113 | Rating: 3

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Incredible Technology Here!!!
Indie Filmmaker here, always looking out for a superiority camera!

The Sony HDV series is an astonishing technology

Don't let people tell you that the footage is "too compressed" ---- technically, it is, but once it gets on wall, it looks stunning!

I haven't done much filming with this camera ---- but I have seen its footage and edited its footage

Both on idiot box and the computer monitor, I was impressed with its 'look' ---- very detailed and extremely clear

Editing was a BREEEEEZE with this footage! I edited on Incontrovertible Cut Pro and could composite 5 layers all above each other, each with a different opacity, and FCP's real time engine kept up without having to interpret! Thus, the compressed footage makes editing EASY - but Sony has managed to make a beautiful sketch out of this stuff too

For the Indie Filmmakers out there ---- test one out before purchasing..... I find the Sony HDV to be the most clear look out there --- emulating a fashionably shot NFL game on HD..... but for cinematic looks, I still may stick with the Panasonic DVX100, as there is a more movie theater feel to that one

hope that helps

HAPPY BUYING!!!!

2005-10-08 | Filmmaker/Political Pundit (Eagle County, Colorado) | Helpful Votes: 21 | Rating: 5

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Sony HVR-Z7U HDV Professional Video Camcorder

List Price: $6,850.00

Product Details Includes a 3.2-inch XtraFine LCD viewfinder Comes with a 1/3-inch-type 3 ClearVid CMOS Sensor system Features a Carl Zeiss 12x optical zoom lens Sony's first professional handheld HDV camcorder with an interchangeable lens system

Product Description

The HVR-Z7U HDV camcorder delivers the enhanced functionality professionals have been waiting for: an interchangeable lens system, born progressive recording, and solid-state memory recording.The HVR-Z7U is the people's first HDV handheld camcorder that uses 1/3-inch bayonet cooperative interchangeable lenses.

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Customer Reviews

Excellent decision ever.
I recieved 2 marred JVC GY-HD110's from Amazon. Sent them back and fronted the extra cash for this one. Best decision I have ever made. Recording to Brief Flash cuts my editing time in half. The battery time is 4 times longer with the wares battery than the JVC too! I love everything about it.

2008-06-16 | Helpful Votes: 6 | Rating: 5

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Fine fantastic for the price
Sony HVR-Z7U Inspection

For the last 3 years I have been using the first Sony HDV camera, the Z1U, with great results. We took it in over 21 countries for the filming of a documentary and it preformed no more than great. However my Z1U, as much as I loved it, was growing old, so I went for the next generation, the Z7U, that I just got a couple days ago.
The first article to notice as I unpacked it is that is noticeably heavier. I knew that from the spec sheet, but I thought I wouldn't advise the 0.6 pound difference. Anyway, the newness of the camera and the fact that is a lot shorter than its predecessor got me wrought up enough to get over it.
I also noticed and liked the new frontal design where the far reaching built in microphone of the Z1U is missing. This allows for bringing the camera much more rapidly to the airplane or car window for instance, something I will value as a documentarian.

The Lens
The removable lens hood is effortlessly removable by the push of a button, opposed to the screw system of the Z1U, a nice little touch, to be valued when you're strapped for at intervals.
The main advantage that I went for on this camera is the removable lens. So first thing I did I removed the Vario Sonnar 12x lens that comes with it. The get ready was easy and intuitive. Upon my first field test, I got to like this lens a lot better than the built in Z1U. It seems that the new example achieves a much better shallow dept of field, the nirvana of any professional. I also really liked the "Digital Extender" aim, built in this lens, that brings the subject 1.5x closer when you're zoomed in to the max. First I thought in might be a cheapo "clout up the pixels" trick, but while watching the footage on a 50inch HD monitor, I could not tell any quality give someone the sack decline while using the "Extender".
The focus ring is large and handy and must be pushed forward for "Sports car focus". This is handy as you shoot, but it is guaranteed to move the shot if you're on a tripod shooting. I remember that the centrally positioned AF button of the Z1U could be moved without any jerk while shooting. The other disappointment is that there is no Autofocus push button, unless you go trough a convoluted programming pass on from the book.
The zoom is handy and smooth, and what I liked the most is that the servo zoom is a lot smoother than the older one. More than that, the servo zoom on the control bar can be programmed to various speeds and once it reaches the upper or lower limit it will ease to a lodge. Totally cool and professional.
The iris is located as third ring on the lens. I liked that too, and there is an Auto Iris handle, but I like doing my own exposure.

The Camera
There are 3 ND filters as opposed to two and they work like a handsomeness. I was able to shoot a sunset reflection on the water without closing the iris at all or being overexposed...
There are 3 advance levels and they are programmable as a new feature. I dindt change the DB levels but I used them all and could not see any image graining even on the "H" scenery. I wish that was the case with the Z1U. So, yes, the low light performance of the new Z7U is net better, a Godsend for a documentarian that can't always control the lighting.
The ghostly balance seems to be the same, not much to do there, same with the menus, and status check. The picture profile has a number of sophistication's such as "disgraceful gain" and color depth that were a bit above my comprehension without further reading.

The display and the outputs

The first major unsatisfaction was the smaller LCD screen. More than that the colors on it were pale and while is it worked well in the sun, it was still simply too small. I got in trouble a lot in the over by not seeing where the focus was, so I was hoping on a larger display. Sony says that is superior since it has more pixels, but I'd preferred it bigger.
The VCR functions are the same, and the HDV tape-record is in the back facing the cameraman, not upwards. This is great if you're changing tapes in the rain or a sandstorm like it happened once while I was in Egypt.
The most valuable new output is the HDMI of performance. I connected it directly to my plasma TV and it looks just great. I also liked the full size firewire connector.
The new Sony Terse Flash recorder unit is small and it fits in the back, over the battery compartment so you'll need to kick out it first if you want to change the battery. That is OK I guess. The unit is small and luckily it takes the fully available CF card. Thank you Sony for not requiring us to buy your overpriced Sony Stick and other non-compatible "Sony Only" kind of cards. And say thank you you for having a dual kind of output storage. I am a "tape" faithful for storage and jam purposes, but it is nice to have the CF option. I have not tried it yet.
The biggest disappointment happened when I tried to playback on the new camera tapes recorded by the old Z1U. As before you know it as I put them in, the Z7U ejected them out. They were recorded in the "1080I 60FPS" a format fully compatible with the Z7U. This is highly troublesome since I have hundreds of tapes filmed on 5 continents that I might have to re-digitize one day should my diligently disks crash. What am I to do, buy an $3000 VTR?

Sound
The included microphone is nice and sensitive, but I seldom record more than the ambient sound on the built in mic. There are 2 XLR inputs, nothing new there. I like that the mic is easily detachable and can recover space while packing the camera. Also with an XLR extension cord it can be used for interviews on a table mount if you're lacking a lapel microphone... This couldn't be done with the old exemplar.

The camera also has the capability to take still pics even while shooting. It has an SD Ram slot and a button can be assigned for picture bewitching. I never cared much for this feature since you can extract just as good pictures from the HD Video files.


Finale
The new HVR-Z7U is a pretty good piece of equipment for the $6000 USD price tag. Despite a couple of shortcomings I don't woe getting it. I really hope Sony will come up with longer lens soon that would make the channel new feature "interchangeable lens" so much more valuable. So far Sony offers just some one wide lens for this segment. That's disappointing, great cinema and nature shots require long lens and none are close by specifically for this camera. Sony offers some options that require adapters and reduced functionality for use of their still camera lenses with the Z7U, but I am skeptical about using such non precise products.

Mitch Anderson

Mitch Anderson is the producer of the film "The World Without US" . This physiognomy-length documentary debates the implications and consequences of US military involvement in the world today.
The Crowd Without US - With Niall Ferguson

2008-03-20 | Documentarian (US) | Helpful Votes: 31 | Rating: 4

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Sony HDR-CX100 ACVHDHD Camcorder with Smile Shutter & 10x Optical Zoom (Red)

List Price: $599.99 Price: $326.08 You Save: $273.91 (46%)

Product Details 8 GB built-in memory; compatible with Memory Stick PRO Duo Media (not included) Capture 1920 x 1080 HD video to built-in flash memory 10x optical zoom, 120x digital zoom; Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar lens with SteadyShot image stabilization 4-megapixel still image capture; Face Detection

Product Description

The SonyHDR-CX100 is a stiff definition Memory Stick Duo media Handycamcamcorder that offers 1920x1080 Full HD video recording and 4.0 megapixel still dead ringer capture in an ultra-compact, affordable package. While the HDR-CX100 packs a in the pink feature set, including a 1/5" Exmor CMOS sensor, BIONZ copy processor, Face Detection and Smile Shutter technology, and 8GB of embedded ritzy memory, its most differentiating characteristic is its ultra-compact design. The trifling size and light weight of the HDR-CX100 allow for easy portability, and the option of silver, black, and red color variations give consumers the opportunity to pick the redden that best suits their tastes. The HDR-CX100 appeals to consumers who are interested in HD nobility video and who desire a compact, portable design.

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Customer Reviews

A fair to middling, but not the greatest camcorder
I have owned and occupied this Sony camcorder for approximately 6 months. And I have now just gotten around to creating a consumer review. I as a matter of fact wanted to love this camcorder. Nevertheless, I still like it very much. But I was disappointed when filming in the dark. There is no external obscure to film in dark settings and all one gets is a grainy picture. However, I knew that there was no light on this cam, so I knew what I was getting for my well-to-do. The touchscreen menus are convenient and easy to use after you get accustomed to navigating them. That does take some practice. But what I indubitably love the most about this camcorder is the fact that it is so small and so light. In the 1980s I had a camcorder that you would have to lug over your shoulder. But with this camcorder, it is as turn up as a baseball glove. The ergonomics are good and the velcro strap that you put your hand in is adjustable. YOur supervision won't be sore while holding it. The battery life is okay, but not fantastic. For new users, I would recommend investing in a espouse, alternate battery, and keeping it charged while you use the first battery up. Another downside to this Sony camcorder will not allow you to use another producer's memory card. Hence, you will have to purchase a Sony memory card. This camcorder is also a digital camera. However, I would not stand up for using this for still photography as the quality is not up to standard of what you would find in a DSLR. If using the high-definition use, the picture is absolutely beautiful and crystal clear, provided that there is full exposure to natural cheerful during the daytime. The color of the picture is perfect. It is as good as anything I have seen professionally. The software that is to be downloaded onto the computer is casual to set up and to install. However, to a new and confused user, learning how to transfer movies and your still pictures is hard to do the first team a few of times. Everybody who buys this will need to read the instruction manual and just take part in around with it until you get the hang of it.

Overall, I would say that if you are an amateur who just wants to casually shoot some footage of kindred, friends, and a vacation, then this camcorder is a good buy. But do not expect a lot of bells and whistles. It is a high-outlining camcorder and as impressive as the picture is, it still does not have an external light to capture decent footage in the devilish. I am modestly happy with my purchase.

2010-03-07 | Nate | Helpful Votes: 0 | Rating: 4

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Lovely Good Product
I like this camcorder. HD characteristic is not bad at all. I wish the recording time was longer with standard battery

2010-03-05 | Andrei (St Louis, MO USA) | Helpful Votes: 0 | Rating: 4

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The Pleasant Spot for Price vs. Performance
Since there is a profusion of information about the specs and features of the Sony HDR-CX100 HD Camcorder, I'll just briefly touch on what I bent about the camcorder and what I dislike about it:

Pros
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- High Definition Video
The videos and images captured by the Sony HDR-CX100 Camcorder are prodigy! You would have to see for yourself how crisp and sharp videos and images are. The high definition technology (1920x1080 judgement) make viewing videos and images on a full HD TV or monitor almost akin to peering through a window!

- x.v. Feel ashamed Technology
x.v. Color is Sony's name for xvYCC (Extended-gamut YCC).

Traditional CRT's use the RGB standard (Red-Green-Morose primary colors) to produce a broad range of colors. xvYCC is a new standard that extends this cover (or "gamut") of colors.

Sony's x.v. Color Technology truly makes the colors captured on videos and images more vibrant and constant-to-life.

- HDMI Support
HDMI, the standard for audio and video connectivity is supported. (Note: the HDMI connector is a Mini HDMI connector, not a Archetype HDMI connector. If you need to hook the camcorder up to a Standard HDMI female end, you will desideratum a Mini-HDMI to HDMI Connector.

- Compact and Lightweight
The camcorder is amazingly snug and lightweight. It fits very snugly and comfortably in the palm of your hand. Talk about portable!

- Affordably Priced
The HDR-CX100 hits the icky fond of spot for price vs. performance. It's one of the best camcorders you can get at this price point.

Cons
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- Noise in Lowlight Position
As many have noted, images have a lot of noise in low light conditions. With a measly 1/5-inch CMOS Sensor, that's not too much of a stupefaction. Compare this with the higher-end camcorders: the Sony HDR-HC9 (which has a 1/2.9-inch CMOS Sensor) or the Sony HDR-XR500V (which has a back-illuminated CMOS sensor).

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I'm very impressed with Sony's HD and x.v. Redden technology -- in well-lit environments, the quality of videos and images produced by the Sony HDR-CX100 is marvellous. However, in low light conditions, the performance of the camcorder is less-than-stellar -- videos and images have a lot of bruit about. The bottom line: If you plan on shooting primarily in well-lit environments (such as outdoors in daytime conditions), the affordably priced HDR-CX100 is a substantial way to go. Otherwise, you will do well to look at other higher-end Sony camcorders.

2010-03-03 | A Music Fan (San Jose, CA) | Helpful Votes: 0 | Rating: 5

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Slight, useful, high quality
Do not demur, you can choose and can not regret.
Especially I like slow motion recording.
But photo trait is not good. (Already this is not photo cam, this is video cam)
Everyone has a sony handy cam ;)

2010-02-24 | adonisas (Ankara / TURKEY) | Helpful Votes: 0 | Rating: 5

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Fulfilled camera for me!
I did a lot of fact-finding before buying the Sony HD Handycam!
For the price, the features were just what I was looking for.
The red color is a bonus!
When I promote it in to my computer, Mac w/Snow Leopard OS,
iMovie opens and I can edit my shots and save to
Blue Ray, You Tube, DVD, etc. The experienced combination for home video.
I can also take still pictures!
I am very happy with my choice of camera!
Thanks!

2010-02-21 | Queen Bee (Oregon) | Helpful Votes: 0 | Rating: 5

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Sony WCS999 Wireless Camcorder Microphone for DCR-DVD101/201/301 & DCR-HC20/30/40/65/85

List Price: $119.99

Product Details Three channels with selector switch for low interference Complete kit includes: lavalier mic, transmitter, receiver and monitoring earphone 900 MHz FM transmission for high-quality sound Transmission range up to 150 feet, depending on conditions

Product Description

The WCS-999 Wireless Microphone system from Sony lets you list voices up to 45 meters away depending on environment and transmitting conditions. The WCS-999 is ideal for video camcorders - it captures the voices of kinfolk members on vacation, in sporting events, at recitals, birthdays and weddings. It is also paragon for Pressman portable audio recorders as it captures lectures and speeches, acceptable for music and nature study.Supplied lavalier microphone is minuscule and unobtrusive, clips onto shirt or tie. Built-in windscreen helps limit the microphone's pickup of wind noise. Omni-directional microphone figure picks up sound from all directions. Pocket-sized wireless transmitter is gentle to hide, clips onto clothing for unobtrusive use. Wireless receiver plugs into camcorder or audio recorder mic input; handily clips onto clothing, camcorder hand strap or shoulder strap. Three broadcasting channels enable you to choose another channel if you encounter interference. Monitoring headset lets you hear what's being recorded; plugs into wireless receiver. Mic mixing lets the camera taxi and the subject both be recorded. 900 MHz wide FM transmission allows for smashing sound quality, excellent frequency response (100 - 15, 000 Hz) and open dynamic range (more than 78 dB). Switchable transmission channel lets you pick out the channel with clear, noise-free sound.

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Customer Reviews

Sony Wireless Mic RF Handicap
I recently purchased a 900MHz SONY Wireless Mic system (Ideal WCS-999) which works exceptionally well at home, very clear without any RF Radio Frequency Interference clap. However when I use it at work it doesn't not perform well due to RFInterference. I assume caused by the many electronic devices such as computers and tainted power loads and circuits nearby. If you buy this product you might want to ensure you are not near many elctronic tons or high power electrical loads which might cause reception problems. I found I couldn't use the mic as intended for catching audio sund while taping video.

2009-03-04 (Canada) | Helpful Votes: 1 | Rating: 3

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Marvellous Product
I use the Sony WCS999 Wireless Camcorder Microphone in my classes for apprentice presentations and it exceeds my expectations. It eliminates background noise and I am able to hear the undergraduate who is presenting when I play back the tape. Outstanding product.

2009-01-30 | Helpful Votes: 1 | Rating: 5

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Makes videos strong less amateur
I give this 5 stars because it does a moral job for what it is.

Don't compare it to a $1000 system with a $500 microphone. That's NOT what this is.

I don't do much video anymore and one of the few things I do with my camcorder is to sit down with older relatives to give us some storytelling of their memories.

I inured to to do this with my camcorder on a tripod and I always got poor audio because the microphone is far away from the source of sound, and worse, you pick up the survey of the camcorders motors wirring and whining while it works. I knew I needed an external microphone. I checked this because it was a for twopence wireless option. I knew the microphone that comes with it is cheap, but decided to see how it performed and I could always upgrade that later.

For me:
I have never had a unruly with this unit. And I haven't been easy on it. It has been abused by an active subject who has ripped it out of his pants and ripped the microphone out of the jack by the line. I don't get interference, noise, nor drop outs, and I have used it, say up to 10 meters. I have imagined how I could put the camera on one daze and the subject on another rock 100 feet away and do a nice slow zoom out rave-up, but frankly, I just don't shoot that kind of stuff anymore and if I did, I'd be using a $2000 wireless system, not a $100 system.

The percipient I record with this is WAY better than the internal microphone on the camcorder, and that is all you should judge this against. Clean, clear, tough audio goes a long way to elevating you footage away from "home movies." There is nothing like it anywhere climax in the market. You have to spend 5-10x the price to go to the next step up.

I've never had noise problems with it, either. If I ever did, I just alteration channels and it is fine. Perhaps some of the other reviewers work in more noisy areas than me.

The only thing is that you need to always examine it, because there is no indication that one of the batteries is about to run out, and then you've recorded your subject without audio for a while.

2008-09-16 (Salt Lke City, UT) | Helpful Votes: 5 | Rating: 5

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Movables Value
It does the job for less than 100 bucks. Although not rather studio quality, it's perfect for my wedding videos. I did 17 on-camera interviews and only one of them came out crappy, seemingly due to obstruction between transmiter and receiver at a distance of approx. 10 feet. If you're on a small budget, and/or, lawful starting your business as I am, this is a very good option.

2008-09-08 | robortgax (Tijuana, B.C. Mexico) | Helpful Votes: 2 | Rating: 4

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Emend your videos 100%
Nothing improves video like tolerable audio. If you're interested in dramatically upgrading the quality of your footage, stop using the on-cabinet microphone and get this wireless. For the home user or the beginning professional, it's a terrific bargain. The range isn't superb and the mic has a poor clip, but nevertheless the difference in sound dramatic.

The receiver has a well designed spring clinch and also accepts another mic input, which is very handy and a feature more expensive systems don't offer. The unit's irrefutable enough and simple to use and the battery life is good. I thought the sound worked well for YouTube video. You can also use singular mics with the transmitter (like a Giant Squid or Radio Shack lav).

It may not be the last wireless you buy (it wasn't for me), but it's a momentous place to start. I still use mine as a B or C wireless. After three years of regular use, it's held up well. If you're a beginning filmmaker or cognizant of one, I can't think of a better hundred bucks spent.

2008-05-21 (Maine, USA) | Helpful Votes: 3 | Rating: 4

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What do you think about the RED camcorders?

Q: Are they the most appropriate? I mean are they better then Canon or Sony or other? Are there other brands like RED that solely as though camcorders? I am trying to make professional movies and documentaries. Are they HD? Plus I am misleading with all the different lenses that they have do I need them all?

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A: Sincerely, if you have to ask these questions, you probably should not be wasting your money or time...

But... to plea directly:

Are they the best?
Some say so.

I mean are they better then Canon or Sony or other?
Some say so - others may core you at Silicon Imaging. Though Panavision, Varicam, CineAlta and others will also buoy their hands...

Are there other brands like RED that solely make camcorders?
Yes - Silicon Imaging is one... Arri is another. Panavision... and several others.

Are they HD?
Yes.

Additional I am confused with all the different lenses that they have do I need them all?
It depends on the draw up and the shots you want... and how long you have to wait from the epoch you decide you need the lens until you can get it...

Sony camcorder with firewire connectivity? ?

Q: I am looking into buying a camcorder. In a beeline now, I am looking at the Sony DCR- VX2100 Digital Handycam, the Sony professional hand held HDV camcorder and the Canon XH A1S and XH A1.
When looking at the check-list of these camcorders, I can't find anything about if they are compatible with Firewires, since i will use a MAC with them.
Also, can anyone tell me the difference between the Canon XH A1S and the XH A1. Appreciation you guys so much.

Where can I purchase a professional T.V. set / Motion Picture video camera camcorder ?

Q: The same video cameras the tv & motion picture industry use. For example when t.v. shows like seinfield & other t.v. shows end & you see those bountiful cameras that is used when it pans back from the sitcom's set to the live audiance & in pic. I know it may cost around $10,000 to $ 5,000,000. Five million dollars. The small sony camcorders I have need to be replaced with something better.

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A: First, set a budget.

What can you grant?

What do you want to use them for?

Keep in mind that the large cameras used in studios commonly never come off the big dolly stands and they are way to bulky/heavy to use as handheld/cooperatively mount and are not "convenient". They also do not have any recording media faculty built-in - they feed the video to recording decks in a hold back room - and a BUNCH of other gear. And they have no audio capabilities. ALL audio is captured off-accommodate using a totally separate audio system.

In the recent days of old, smaller cameras that are on camera cranes or shoulder mounted can now be found in studios. They did not repay the large cameras - but augment them. Different camera angles and more resiliency on stage presence. Again, for the most part, they also do not have any recording media capability built-in - they upon the recording decks in the control room - and a BUNCH of other materiel. And they have no audio capabilities. ALL audio is captured off-board using a thoroughly separate audio system.

Camcorders on the other hand, by definition, have the recording media thingumajig built-in to the camera body. They also have built-in mics and arrest the audio to the same storage media that captures the video. Diminish end consumer units generally do not have external mic jacks or instructions audio control. Low-end consumer camcorders have small lenses and imaging chips and do not do well in low sunny as a result. Manual controls are not easy to get to because they are usually employed through the camcorder's menu system.

"Prosumer" and professional camcorders have audio-in jacks (preferably ones use XLR connectors rather than 1/8" (3.5mm) stereo audio in). They also have larger lenses and imaging chips for much greater low-light behavior. Manual controls are on the outside of the camcorder and relaxing to get to.

Even though they have audio-in and built-in mics, the best way is to capture the audio singly with a field recorder and replace the audio captured by the camcorder with the audio from the mead recorder.

Low end:
Canon ZR900, ZR930, ZR960. All are benchmark definition, miniDV tape consumer camcorders, have a mic jack but no guide audio control, have small lenses and imaging chips.

mid-align:
Canon HV20/HV30/HV40 or Sony HDR-HC9. All can do standard definition DV or High Definition HDV, miniDV seal consumer camcorders, have a 1/8" stereo mic jack with instructions audio control, have medium sized lenses and imaging chips.

prosumer guide definition:
Canon GL2, Sony DCR-VX2100 are standard definition, miniDV bind prosumer camcorders, have a 1/8" stereo mic jack and vade-mecum audio control, have larger lenses and imaging chips.

prosumer strong definition:
Sony HDR-FX1000 does HDV and DV, and is a miniDV tape prosumer camcorder, has a 1/8" stereo mic jack and vade-mecum audio control, larger lenses and imaging chips. It replaced the HDR-FX1 and is a sibling to the pro-NZ hack HVR-Z1U.

Then the jump to low-end pro finds larger lenses or imaging chips, and XLR audio connectors:
Touchstone definition:
Panasonic DVX100
High Definition (and standard statement of meaning):
Panasonic HDX200, Sony HVR-Z1U, HVR-Z5U, HVR-Z7U, HVR-V1U, Canon XH series and XLH series and JVC GY series.

These lists of camcorders is not model and meant only to provide you with the better examples of camcorders within a certain order. Notice there are no hard disc drive or flash reminiscence consumer camcorders listed. They save to same very highly compressed video facts files - much more compressed than DV/HDV used by miniDV tape based camcorders. more density = more discarded video data = reduced video je sais quoi... there are several other reason miniDV tape continues to be the preferred storage order, but that won't be covered in this post. Consumer DVD camcorders barely make utilitarian doorstops and never make it to the short list for any serious consideration - their video is flattened even more than the HDD/flash memory video data files..

Panasonic and Sony have higher end camcorders that go into diverse formats (DVCPRO, XDCAM, HDCAM) and they can exceed $100,000.

So... after all is said and done... set a budget. In my sentiment, if you are looking for good video quality and flexibility, the Littlest you should be looking at is the Sony HDR-FX1000 or Canon XHA1... or above.