Users of the FX1 will enjoy the clearest, smoothest High Definition Video images at a resolution of 1440 pixels x 1080 lines (compared to conventional DV format of 720 pixels x 480 lines, in case of NTSC). Using Inter-frame compression through MPEG2 encoding technology, the HDV format is recordable on pre-existing DV format tapes.

Professional Functions for Professional Productions

With the HDR-FX1, users can now make home movies look like a professionally shot film.  The Cinematone GammaTM  and CineframeTM  functions on the Handycam enable high quality picture processing and 24 frames/second or 30 frames/second style of shooting, enhancing the dept and mood of any high-definition footage.

Smooth, seamless, professional looking shot transitions are achieved using the Shot TransitionTM  function. With settings to control focus, zoom, iris, gain, shutter and white balance, focus can gradually shift from the front of the screen to a deeper subject, or vice versa, enabling a smooth transition in depth of field.  Transitions may be linear, soft or soft transition.

For convenient creativity, the HDR-FX1 allows users to define their own default settings through Picture Profile. This function allows six different profiles that a user can customize and take advantage of, depending on the filming scene.  This may include a setting for filming sunsets, another for filming people, and another for recording in black and white.  For ultimate control, Iris, Gain, White Balance, Shutter Speed and Focus can all also be adjusted manually.

Shoot like the Professionals

The Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* lens minimizes warping and maximizes contrast and colour reproduction. To meet the demands of high-end users, the HDR-FX1 has a shooting range from 32.5mm to 390mm, a 12 x optical zoom and a multitude of zoom control of a professional camera. With a new encoder installed, the zoom ring allows for definitive zoom position control, according to the angle for smooth, delicate operation.  Users also have the option switch between the zoom ring, zoom lever and remote control functions.

With the higher resolution of HD images, the HDR-FX1 increases control of focusing.  The Expanded Focus function magnifies the screen twofold to ensure crisp focus. The Peaking function emphasizes the outline of objects and Super Steady Shot eliminates jolting and blurring when moving and shooting. As with professional cameras, the Centre Maker on the HDR-FX1 aids in central focusing and matches the horizontal plane with the vertical. The 3.5" hybrid LCD panel is located towards the front of the unit, on the same level as the viewfinder.  The convenient location and hybrid nature allows perfect viewing under any lighting conditions.

Not only does the HRD-FX1 record and playback superb images, but the wide range stereo microphone provides superior audio quality.  Wind noise is minimized through the camera's own shape and sound adjustments, previously made through a menu, can now be directly adjusted the external audio level meter.

Enjoy the HD Difference

Once limited to the world of digital broadcasting, the HDR-FX1 takes advantage of Sony's proprietary HD Codec EngineTM  to bring HDV recording and playback into the prosumers' space.  This highly advanced processing circuit efficiently compresses data, while maintaining the quality of the digital images.  Sony's unique 1080I HD CCD separates light into the three primary colours and, with 1.12M total pixels, more defined HD images are achieved.

No matter what functions or setting employed, using the rapidly expanding range of compatible HDV editing software, users can edit footage into their personal professional production and return to the DV tape, through Mac or PC.