Sony HDR-FX7 3-CMOS Sensor 20x Optical Zoom HDV High-Definition Handycam Camcorder Review

The Sony HDR-FX7 is a lightweight camcorder capable of delivering 1080i video via MiniDV tapes using the HDV format. This camera bears some resemblance to the Sony HDR-FX1 in both form and function, but boasts a few changes sure to entice consumers, enthusiasts and professionals alike. Shoot like a pro with the HDR-FX7 High Definition Handycam(R) camcorder. Capture amazing video and still images in high definition with the first HDV 1080i 3 CMOS sensor consumer-level camcorder and player in the world.

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The three - 1/4" ClearVID CMOS Sensors provide stunning detail and precision, while a 20x Optical Zoom Carl Zeiss Lens maintains image clarity. Since the HDR-FX7 records video in high-definition, you can dual record still images at the same time. So no matter what the occasion, the HDR-FX7 is the perfect camcorder for the situation. A Sony developed Real Time MPEG Encode/Decode system with reduced energy consumption and compact size to fit inside a personal camcorder. This provides efficient MPEG2 compression, and recording and playback of clear HD images at the same bit rate of the DV format, so that High Definition video can be recorded on the same cassettes as are used for MiniDV recording. From the authority in lens technology, the Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T lens provides a high-quality 20x optical zoom which maintains image clarity and color while reducing glare and flare. Dual independent zoom and focus rings provide precise and detailed control over the amount of zoom and the overall focus of the image with just a turn of the rings. Fast, intuitive framing when zooming, and finely detailed focusing is easy with the natural "feel" of the rings. Easily adjust the amount of light entering the lens by adjusting exposure brightness in accordance with the iris and gain. The Iris control allows the volume of light to be adjusted (shutter speed and gain are adjustable). Though not small enough to carry with you to Disney, this camcorder opens up new opportunities for serious amateur and semi-professionals to record videos suitable for play on new widescreen HDTV sets. An IEEE1394 iLink port is provided for easy transfer to a PC or Macintosh for professional editing applications.

Product Features and Technical Details

Product Features

• Record and play back HDV 1080i video; switchable recording in standard definition
• ClearVid CMOS sensor; 20x optical zoom
• Wide 3.5-inch Hybrid Touch Panel Clear Photo LCD Plus display
• Capture 1.2-megapixel stills to Memory Stick Duo
• Professional 62mm Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T lens

Technical Details

• Brand Name: Sony
• Model: HDR-FX7
• Media Type: Mini DV (HDV)
• Optical zoom: 20 x
• Maximum Aperature Range: f/1.6 - 2.8
• Shooting Modes: Normal movie mode
• Display Size: 3.500000 inches
• Optical Sensor Resolution: 1.200000 MP
• Optical Sensor Technology: CMOS
• Height: 6.25 inches
• Weight: 3.6 pounds
• Depth: 13.75 inches
• Width: 5.75 inches

High Definition on MiniDV Tapes with HDV

The HDV format used in the HDR-FX7 allows high definition recording on standard MiniDV tapes! This is accomplished by using the very popular MPEG-2 compression technique used in many applications, including DVDs.

ClearVID 3CMOS Technology

Sony's ClearVID sensors are positioned at a 45° angle. Since each pixel is positioned at this angle the result is far clearer diagonal lines. Images will appear crisper, without the apparent "jaggies" that often plague video signals.

HDMI Output

Many consumer products are adopting High Definition Media Interface (HDMI) connections for transmitting uncompressed digital HD video signals. Sony incorporates this into an already extensive array of video output choices on the FX7. Simply hook the camera up to your HDTV via this interface and view all your footage the way it was meant to be seen: purely digital!

Small and Lightweight

The FX7 has shaved off a few pounds in comparison to its big brother, the FX1, weighing in at less than 4 lbs! Not only will users be able to take this feature-rich camera almost anywhere, the reduced arm strain enables longer shoots.

Optical Stabilization

Sony has incorporated the sophisticated Super SteadyShot^® optical stabilization system on the HDR-FX7. This technology helps users achieve glass-smooth shots even when conditions are less than forgiving.

Expanded Focus Assist

Focusing high definition can be very difficult on smaller LCDs. Their size makes it very hard to discern whether a scene is completely in focus or not. Sony's answer to this phenomenon is to give users the ability to zoom in; by localizing a segment of the frame, verifying focus becomes worlds easier.

20x Carl Zeiss Lens

The 20x lens fitted to the FX7 can be very useful when subjects are further away, such as when shooting live events and sports.

Precision Focus and Zoom Controls

The FX7 features both a zoom and focus ring capable of making precise adjustments while having the tactile feeling of manual controls.

Highly Customizable

Buttons can be mapped to a variety of different functions on the outside of the unit, allowing users to customize the camcorder for their specific needs. This can be very useful, especially if different situations demand several user-defined controls being readily available.