Sony debuts HDR-FX1000, HVR-Z5J high-def camcorders
It looks like those not willing to give up on DV tape for their HD recording needs now have a pair of new options to consider from Sony, which has just introduced its HDR-FX1000 and HVR-Z5J camcorders in Japan. The HDR-FX1000 (pictured above) is the slightly more consumer-minded of the two, with it boasting a not-outrageous price of ¥400,000 (or roughtly $3,700), and some impressive specs all around, including a 20x optical zoom, both 24p and 30p modes, and Sony's G-series lens, which promises to deliver some top-notch images. The HVR-Z5J, on the other hand, offers some more specialized features like XLR audio inputs, PAL and NTSC compatibility, and support for the DVCAM format in addition to usual DV/HDV option. Look for it to set you back ¥554,400 (or just over $5,000) when it lands in December, with the HDR-FX1000 set to slip out ahead of it on November 10th.
http://www.engadget.com/2008/09/04/sony-debuts-hdr-fx1000-hvr-z5j-high-def-camcorders/
Sony HDR-FX1000, In Japan Now
This morning Sony announced the arrival of a new HDV camera (tape based in 1440x1080i60), the HDR-FX1000.
Even if our new FX1000 keeps the same look as the previous generation FX, Sony decided improve their camera with some nice improvements like a new G Lens that provides better quality images also tuned by the Exmor image processor and the “3 Clear Bit CMOS sensor”, and a 20x optical zoom, and the possibility to have a 24p and 30p mode.
If there are any doubts that this camera is a good product for the average Joe or Indy reporter, we still argue that tapes are a thing of the past due to their 27MBps limitation, this camera still provies 1440x1080 and no 1920x1080 or 1280x720, a 720/60p would be wonderful. Sold roughly for around 2500?? in Japan you should MOST probably switch to a P2 camera if you're really serious about video.
Interestingly, Japanese TV journalists mainly use Sony FX cameras on the go while many in the US use the P2 HVX200 (HBO, TV series: the 4400, Stargate Atlantis...)
http://www.akihabaranews.com/en/news-16651-Sony+HDR-FX1000+now+in+Japan.html
