Sony HDR-FX1000

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.

Comparisons

Jump to a quick comparison of the Sony HDR-FX1000 with these other camcorders...

Canon XL H1A Compare

This review is organized into 17 pages
Page 1 Product Tour Compact, hand-held design with no shoulder mount. Left side is too cluttered and confusing. Read More...	Page 2 Color & Noise Performance Low noise levels and deep, vivid colors. Overall image is dark and colors aren't as accurate as we'd hoped. Read More...	Page 3 Motion & Resolution Performance Smooth and sharp motion with shockingly good video resolution. 24p and 30p modes aren't natively progressive. Read More...
Page 4 Low Light Performance Color and noise levels were generally strong. Low light sensitivity doesn't stand up to the competition. Read More...	Page 5 Audio Mic jack and audio level controls are better than nothing. Limited audio inputs and outputs, no dual channel level control. Read More...	Page 6 Compression & Media MiniDV is cheap and popular. Sony's proprietary Memory Stick cards are required to for still images. Read More...
Page 7 Manual Controls Assignable buttons and excellent peaking features stand out. Many important controls are difficult to access and manipulate. Read More...	Page 8 Still Features Photos can be taken during video recording. No size or quality options for still images. Read More...	Page 9 Handling & Use Large LCD screen with impressive resolution. Scroll wheel isn't well designed and too many buttons are awkwardly placed. Read More...
Page 10 Playback & Connectivity VCR controls are large and well labeled. Sony's proprietary multi-AV cable means you can't use universal cables. Read More...	Page 11 Canon XL H1A Comparison We compare the HDR-FX1000 to the XL H1A. Read More...	Page 12 Sony HVR-Z5U Comparison See how the HDR-FX1000 stacks up. Read More...
Page 13 Panasonic AG-HVX200 Comparison Read More...	Page 14 Conclusion Read our final conclusion of the Sony HDR-FX1000. Read More...	Page 15 Photo Gallery A gallery of photos of the Sony HDR-FX1000 Read More...
Page 16 Specs and Ratings See all the scores for the Sony HDR-FX1000. Read More...	Part 17 Comments Read what people are saying about the Sony HDR-FX1000 Add Your Comments