SONY FDR-AX100 - retro looks and modern filling
With the advent of high-quality cameras on smartphones, companies such as Sony, Panasonic, JVC, and others forced to either seek new arguments in favor of buying a separate full-size camcorder. One way to attract attention was the transition from HD to 4K resolution.
This product from SONY for its size and form factor reminds us of video recorders 90s, which was recorded on 8-mm magnetic tape. Especially miniature camera will not name - hull length of 20 cm Weight without battery - 907 grams. Body frame is made of magnesium alloy usual. Authorities have not touched fashionable ideas "intuitive" and "friendly" interface - like in the '90s, it consists of a solid number of buttons and switches. It looks even more archaic, but in fact this solution is optimal for a serious operation. At the same time has a touch screen interface. It is fixed on a rotating two-axis hinge.
Native resolution is 1920 x 480 pixels. Folded screen adjacent to the body, which protects it from scratches and hides the 6 buttons (including the power button) and a slot for memory cards. As you know, one screen may be insufficient in some situations, so the manufacturer has equipped more FDR-AX100 digital viewfinder with a resolution of 1.4 megapixels. For convenience it can be rotated in a vertical plane. On the opposite side of the front of the lens has an adjusting wheel that can control the zoom or focus.
To switch modes there are a small button. Below is another rotary knob, which can be assigned to different functions. The right side has a standard handle retention. It is made of leather and has a pocket, which is charged with the short cord integrated USB. It is not only used to synchronize files, but also allows you to connect an external power supply, including any portable battery suitable denomination. In the number of interfaces also includes modules WiFi, NFC, mini-HDMI, 3,5-mm audio jack for a microphone, and corporate multi-interface for connection to an external storage device, or other accessories. There is a built-in microphone, which provides 5.1-channel surround sound.
Includes:
Camcorder
Battery
USB Cable
Remote Control
Lens Hood
Lens Cap
Instruction Key Features Optical Sensor: CMOS 1-inch, 20-megapixel Focus Contrast Display: 3.5-inch, 1920 x 480 pixel touchscreen interface Max video resolution: 3840 x 2160 pixels Maximum speed: 120 frames / s Lens: Vario-Sonnar T 2,8 / 9,3-111,6, multiple 12x Optical SteadyShot stabilization system Memory Card: SD, Memory Stick Video Format: MP4
Remote Control
Like most modern products, FDR-AX100 can be controlled remotely using a smartphone or tablet with a special application. However, following the traditions of the old school, the developers added the supplied infrared remote and traditional. Its functionality is limited to the basic options. To use the menu screen is a must see. IR receiver signal is close to the lens, so protective of his head partially obscures what causes failure. Recommended lowering control below.
Operation
The quality of the video itself, as expected, no complaints. The picture is very sharp and rich. Autofocus can not occur instantaneously, but retains excellent grip. Optical stabilization adequately cope with its task, even at maximum zoom. Time-lapse mode (120 k / s) as a whole works correctly, but on the big screen does not look so great - not enough color. The camera is able to do a 20-megapixel photo quality is also great. Purple fringing artifacts or completely absent, deep color rendition. In the complex environment of artificial light camera copes well. To capture web content can be reduced resolution. 64 GB memory card is enough for 14 hours in a format AVCHD 1080p HD.
But it was not without flaws. Thumbwheel lens does not work very smoothly and accurately, that creates some inconvenience with manual focus. Button for a quick photo in the video mode has on the upper part of the body, which contributes to accidental pressing. Under the sun of the display lacks brightness and touch input does not work sometimes.
Pros
- great video
- high quality photos
- WiFi and NFC
- remote
- excellent build quality Cons - not enough accurate lens ring - not enough screen brightness - touch interface failure
Verdict
FDR-AX100 can not be called the number one choice for professionals, but for the creation of high-quality video and fotokontenta travel in a very good option. Retail price is $ 1,950.
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