Sony has released a new pro-sumer high-definition camera, the HDRFX1000, which records to HDV tape.

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November 21, 2008: Sony has released a new pro-sumer high-definition camera, the HDRFX1000, which records to HDV tape.
Featuring three 4.8 x 3.6 mm ClearVid CMOS Image Sensors with Exmor-derived technology, the HDRFX1000 supports a range of advanced manual features with triple focus, zoom and iris rings. It also boasts a new Sony G Series lens that was developed specially for the HDRFX1000 and covers a wide angle equivalent to 29.5mm in 35mm. The 20x optical zoom range can be boosted digitally by a factor of approximately 1.5x for close-ups with the Digital Extender. Constructed from 15 elements in 10 groups, the HDRFX1000’s lens contains two ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass elements reduce chromatic aberrations plus compound aspheric elements for clear images at high zoom ratios.

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The high light-gathering power of the G series lens supports a low-light sensitivity of 1.5 lux (at 1/25 fixed shutter speed with auto iris and auto gain). Video shooting is enhanced further by Optical SteadyShot image stabilisation. The HDRFX1000 is Sony’s first pro-sumer Handycam camcorder with a 25p progressive scanning mode. Signals scanned at 25p are converted to 50i before recording on tape. This allows progressive-scan images to be viewed and edited seamlessly in an existing HDV environment. Film-like images are now achievable with Cinematone Gamma colour filtering.
The HDRFX1000’s 3.2-type Xtra Fine LCD has a resolution of 921,000 dots. It is

complemented by a 0.45-type Xtra Fine electronic viewfinder. Independent zoom and focus rings are joined by a new iris ring that allows precise adjustment of the amount of light entering the lens. Users can adjust exposure brightness with the iris and gain settings while shutter speed remains locked. Dedicated controls are also provided for white balance and shutter speed. There is also a focus switch for quick, positive mode selection and three switchable ND filters.
Other manual features include Shot Transition and Picture Profile. Three assignable buttons can be customised to put frequently-used functions within easy reach for instant recall. The HDRFX1000 is supplied with a rechargeable battery that supports up to 140 minutes of recording time with the LCD on. Supplied accessories include a remote control plus A/V and Component cables. The HDRFX1000 is available now for an RRP of $5,999 from consumer electronics retailers and camera specialty stores nationally. For more information, visit www.sony.com.au.