Sony FX-1 ($3400 new)

[HankCastello]

I've had this camera nearly a year and only last month did I finally get around to actually making a hi-def DVD (see my article about burning my first HD-DVD).  Everything went just fine.  

I understand that there are cameras that give better resolution and non-compressed file formats, but they don't have the low lux rating (3-Lux) that this camera has and that we need for shooting weddings (especially receptions).

The controls are laid out so they can be easily reached with the left hand.  Iris and gain have separate controls and gain can be limited when in auto-exposure mode.  You can read all about this camera's features elsewhere, the purpose of these posts are feedback, so I'll just say that I really like this camera, though it is heavier than our VX2100s.

One thing I'm not thrilled about is the shoe-mount adapter.  This is a gadget you have to put on the camera to use shoe-mountable accessories.  Unfortunately, I bought the camera used and did not get this.  Sony wants seventy bucks for it!

[kwshaw1]

When the FX1 was introduced it set a new standard for affordable high-definition videography, and started a revolution of independent HD production which continues to spread today. I have two FX1s and have some concerns about their low-light performance, but have learned to work with that and overall enjoy this camera very much. As Hank noted there's some learning involved in making a high-definition DVD for customers, but that situation is improving rapidly with the recent release of new hardware and software. I show HD demos to clients using a Sony Playstation 3 connected to a 1080p LCD display, and that looks much better than anything I was able to do using DV cameras and standard DVDs.

I"ve tested most of the competing HD cameras costing under $10K and still find the FX1 to be one of the best values in this price range for event videography work. The newer Canon XH-A1 is also worth a look because it comes with XLR inputs for about the same price (which the FX1 doesn't have), but the Canons are even trickier to use in low light than Sony HDV cameras.

[RevelVideo]

Why does Sony put out cameras that do not have xlr inputs...it is so frustrating! Do you just use a beechtek adaptor then?

[osbornes5]

The Beachtek is certainly a viable option and many o use that. However there are 1/8" to XLR adapter cables available. A B&H tech told me that you want to get the name brand ones because there is a difference. He specifically mentioned the Azden brand and that is what I wound up getting. Sennheiser also makes one as well as, I'm sure, a host of others. The Beachtek allows you to have independent adjustable inputs which can be nice.

Agreed, though, on the Sony thing. Why do they do that? I haven't the foggiest idea. But then again, why does Sony make cams that have their tape access on the bottom? It boggles the mind.

[HankCastello]

The Beachtek is certainly a viable option

In my opinion, it's much more than that.  Consider for a moment that your camera (FX-1, VX2100, etc.) has native XLR inputs.  You're shooting a wedding ceremony that's just beginning.  Your sound tests went fine and you set audio levels for groom and officiant accordingly.  The officiant begins and guess what?  He's clipping! 

If you have native XLR, you need to quickly get to the volume control for left channel (for instance).  This means punching buttons and turning dials that are built into your camera.  Good chance you bump the camera and ruin a shot.

Now, same issue, but with a Beachtek.  You gently turn the knob for left channel until the level is in the safe zone.  Problem quickly solved without ruining a shot.

If you can't yell "CUT!" then you need quick, effective access to audio level control that does not ruin a shot and the Beachtek gives you this.  I recommend the new model with separate LED level contorls.