PRO-LEVEL CAMCORDERS
Sony HDR-FX1
The HDR-FX1 records in the HDV format, with 1080i resolution at a 16:9 aspect ratio. (That's 1080 x 1440 pixels, for those of you out there measuring.) This is true professional-quality video, of the same resolution as you'll find broadcast on your nearest HDTV station. You have the option of recording at either 24 or 30 frames per second; the former creates a more film-like picture. The camera's innards contain three 1/3'' 16:9 Advanced HAD CCD imaging chips for just about the best picture available. The digital recording incorporates professional-level MPEG2 video compression, using a real-time HD codec engine and 14-bit HD Digital Extended Processor (DXP) for faster processing speed. You can switch back and forth between HD and standard DV recording as necessary. Lens-wise, we're looking at a Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* lens with 12X optical zoom. Sony's Super SteadyShot image stabilization system takes the jitters out of the picture, without noticeable video degradation. You can view your recording-in-progress on a 3.5'' 16:9 LCD display that swivels out from the body of the camera. That's not all, of course; the HDR-FX1 contains all the bells and whistles you'd expect of a camcorder in this class. That means you get automatic scene transitions, the ability to smoothly shift the focus from the front of the screen to a deeper area of the picture, and both manual and automatic control over zoom, focus, and iris. Sony's Picture Profile feature lets you create up to six preset video modes, each containing a variety of shooting settings. Bottom line, this is the premier camcorder to buy if you want to create high-definition movies. For the time being at least, it just doesn't get any better than this.
JVC GR-HD1Sony isn't the only player in the high-definition camcorder game, as witnessed by JVC's GR-HD1. This pro-level camcorder records in 720p (720 x 1280) HDV format with 16:9 aspect ratio; it can upconvert its signals to 1080i if you want, or switch to standard definition DV mode. Recording is via 1/3'' CCD; the lens is a 10X zoom. Naturally, you get all the requisite bells and whistles, all in a very solid-feeling design.
Sony HDR-HC1If you want to go high-def without springing for a bulky pro-level camera, check out Sony's new HDR-HC1. In addition to your choice of HDV (1080i)/DV recording and 16:9/4:3 aspect ratios, you also get a Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* 10X zoom lens and a 2.7'' touch-panel LCD display that does double-duty as a menu controller. Sony keeps the size (and cost) down by using a one-chip CMOS design.
Sony DCR-VX2100Not all pro-level camcorders are high-definition; there are plenty of standard definition models around, such as Sony's DCR-VX2100. This MiniDV model uses HAD progressive-scan technology with three 1/3'' CCDs; recording is in the 16:9 widescreen format, with sound in 16-bit digital PCM stereo. Lens-wise, you get a 58mm aspherical lens with 12X optical zoom, and Sony's Super SteadyShot optical stabilization system uses motion sensors to deliver super-steady pictures under a variety of conditions.
Canon XL2Even though it's not high definition, the Canon XL2 is the uber-camera of choice for many independent filmmakers; what the pros especially like is the interchangeable lens system that lets you use any of Canon's XL and EF 35mm camera lenses. The XL2 incorporates professional styling and a rugged magnesium body, uses a 3-CCD imaging system, and shoots in the 16:9 widescreen aspect ratio. It's a true pro-level camera used by real pros!
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