Sony HDR-FX1000

As with most HD camcorders that record to MiniDV tape, the Sony HDR-FX1000 uses HDV compression for high definition footage and DV for standard definition video. The camcorder cannot output uncompressed video, which is a feature commonly available on more expensive professional video equipment.

Images provided by Sony

The multiple frame rate options on the HDR-FX1000 are 1080/60i, 1080/24p, and 1080/30p. Sony calls the 24p and 30p settings as 'Film-like Progressive Scan' modes. When the 24p and 30p signals are recorded to tape they are down-converted to 60i using a 2:3 pulldown method. This makes the footage easier to use on non-linear editing systems, but it means the video recorded to tape isn't really 24p or 30p—it's simply 60i with a pulldown conversion. The Sony HVR-Z5U, in contrast, records native progressive images as the camcorder utilizes 3 progressive CMOS sensors.

Now, all this compression jargon will probably be useless to most consumers as the only thing that really matters is how the frame rates actually look. 24p and 30p on the Sony HDR-FX1000 are definitely slowed down and choppier, which does produce a somewhat film-like look, although it definitely won't appeal to everyone. In comparison with the Canon XL H1A, which uses does not use a 2:3 pulldown when recording to tape, the Sony looks very similar (and in overall motion comparisons we thought the Sony actually looked a bit better).

Media (6.0)

The HDR-FX1000 records to MiniDV tape, which is still the most popular recording media for pro camcorders. Tape is cheap, light, easy to store, and provides a relatively easy transition to non linear editing systems. You do have long logging and capturing times with tape, but it is made up for by the low cost and widespread computability of the HDV codec.

The HDR-FX100 with tape being ejected.	The camcorder records to regular MiniDV tape.

 

If you're looking to stray away from tape-based products, Sony's XDCAM series features a number of camcorders with tapeless workflows, as do numerous professional models from JVC and Panasonic. Canon has yet to release a pro or prosumer camcorder that does not record to tape. Sony does not claim the HDR-FX1000 to be compatible with its flash memory and HDD video recorders that can connect via the FireWire port. Sony sells two tapeless memory recording units, the HVRMRC1K and HVRDR60, both of which are fully compatible with the FX1000's big brother, the Sony HVR-Z5U.

Editing (8.0)

No editing software ships with the HDR-FX1000, which is the usual story with pro and prosumer camcorders. The FX1000 should work seamlessly with pro-level non linear editing systems, although some may have difficulty removing the 2:3 pulldown on footage shot using the 24p and 30p modes. Check with your editing software to see if it supports reverse telecine options (removing 2:3 pulldown) or if it can handle editing 24p or 30p footage.