Introduction

With an MSRP of $3199, the Sony HDR-FX1000 is an HDV camcorder that's packed with enough manual controls and features to keep most people happy. If you're a professional videographer, however, you'll likely be disappointed with the camcorder's lack of precise controls and its cramped design. The HDR-FX1000 is very limited when it comes to audio connectivity (it has no XLR inputs), and the button layout for certain controls is downright terrible. That being said, the camcorder represents a decent value for what you get as there aren't too many models out there that record HD and offer this much control for less than $3200. Also, the HDR-FX1000 performed surprisingly well in our video performance tests, which means if you care more about image quality than the caliber of manual controls, this may be the camcorder for you.

For an extra $1750 you can spring for the professional Sony HVR-Z5U, which is very similar to the HDR-FX1000, but comes equipped with better audio controls, more connectivity options, and a set of natively progressive CMOS sensors.