Shoot three-chip HDV at 1080i

Sony steps up to the HDV plate next month, when it’s scheduled to ship the HDR-FX1 Handycam, a $3700 three-chip 1080i (1440×1080) camcorder – along with new HD DVC videotapes (63 minutes of recording time) to go with it. The sensors are 1/3-inch, one-megapixel 16×9 CCDs, and the camera boasts a 14-bit analog-to-digital converter. At press time, Adobe, Canopus, Pinnacle and Ulead had already announced support for the FX1 in their editing products, and Sony reiterated the HDV support in its own Vegas Video app. Here’s the catch: the camera, from Sony Electronics, is aimed at the high-end consumer market. A more expensive pro version is coming in time for NAB 2005, but Sony’s mum on exactly what features will be added (XLR inputs and 24p would be a logical start).
Key Features:
  • Three 1 / 3 -inch, one-megapixel 16×9 CCDs
  • 14-bit digital-to-analog converter
  • 12x optical zoom (32.5mm to 390mm)
  • 3.5-inch 250,000-pixel LCD swivel screen
  • Stereo microphone
Accessories: Optional 0.8x wide conversion lens, PL filter kit, shoulder brace, and hard and soft carrying cases all available in November
Price: $3700
Availability: November
Site: news.sel.sony.com