Two years after launching the world’s first high-end HDV Handycam, Sony Australia has unveiled the HDR-FX7, its first HDV camcorder with 3 ClearVid CMOS Sensor technology.

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November 9, 2006: Two years after launching the world’s first high-end HDV Handycam, Sony Australia has unveiled the HDR-FX7, its first HDV camcorder with 3 ClearVid CMOS Sensor technology.
Designed for semi-professional videographers and video enthusiasts, the new FX7 model is 27% smaller and 30% lighter than the original HDR-FX1 model. Its new 3 ClearVid CMOS Sensor technology consists of three independent CMOS sensors each handling one of the colour elements: red, green and blue. Sony has partnered its new sensors with an Enhanced Imaging Processor that enables signal processing for up to 1,440 x 1080 pixel recordings. At the same time, the photo-detector surface is larger to capture more detail. Together, these new technologies result in higher video resolution, greater light sensitivity and more accurate colour reproduction.
The FX7 has a Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* lens with20x optical zoom plus a built-in Super Steadyshot optical image stabilizer. With the new digital extender function, the FX7 can magnify video footage up to 1.5 times, to provide the equivalent of 30x optical zoom without visible loss of picture quality. The lens is made from extra-low dispersion glass, which reduces chromatic aberration and produces video with minimal coloured fringing. Multi-layer coatings ensure excellent colour reproduction. The zoom and focus rings operate independently, while the exposure/iris dial is located directly behind the zoom ring for smooth operation. Manual adjustments are provided for shutter speed, white balance and gain so users can fine-tune the FX7’s settings to match the shooting conditions.
A Memory Stick Duo slot, USB port, HDMI output terminal and headphone jack are positioned on the left side of the FX7’s body, while the i.LINK (HDV/DV) terminal, analogue component terminal, multi-A/V terminal, and DC input terminal are on the right side. The microphone is built into the front to provide more realistic sound capture. The onboard HDMI output terminal allows direct playback on HD displays (like Sony’s Bravia models). The FX7 also includes the popular Smooth Slow Record function, which allows six seconds of footage to be played back as 24 seconds of smooth slow motion video. The HDRFX7 will be available from mid November and will retail for $5,499 (inc GST). For details of Sony’s Handycam range and stockists, phone Sony Australia on 1300 720 071 or visit www.sony.com.au