I have been researching the Sony HDR-UX1 camcorder and have found some information about it that will help those looking for a DVD camcorder. This camcorder is very similar to the highly rated Sony DVD-505 camcorder, except that it records in high definition. There is some confusion about how to play back the disks. I will attempt to explain.[1] This camcorder records in high definition to mini-dvd disks using the AVCHD compression format. It will only playback in AVCHD capable DVD players (which will become common in the next couple of years), Blueray players have this capability, but from what I read you should not neccessarily need to get a blueray player, just one that can support the AVCHD compression codec. HD-DVD players may also be able to play these disks. These disks will also play on computer DVD drives with the bundled AVCHD software as well.
[2] You can playback the disk through the camcorder itself and hook it up to your high definition TV directly. So in effect the camcorder itself replaces the need for a blueray player to playback MiniDVD disks.
[3] If you want, you can also record in standard definition (just like the DVD 505) and play back the DVD on almost any DVD player, since the compression used is MPEG 2 for this and all DVD players are made for this.
So basically you have two camcorders in one. Standard definition or high definition. You can shoot in high definition, use the camera or your computer to view without the need to a blueray player. Or shoot in standard definition and view on a standard DVD player. The choice is yours.
[4] Some improved features of this camcorder are manual focus/zoom ring option for more control, Guideframes to compose your shots, 4 megapixel still image capability. You can hookup to your HDTV with component or HDMI connectors. Headphone Jack. Microphone Jack. Dolby 5.1 surround sound. Large high resolution 3.5 inch screen (same as DVD505 model).
[5] How much video can you fit on a disk? It took a while to find out this information, but here it is. In high definition, a dual layer DVD+R disk will hold 27 minutes in highest HD resolution, or in LP mode 60 minutes.
Preface:
High definition quality is very detailed. It requires good camcorder technique. You have to have a very smooth panning technique or else your video will be choppy and stutter. Don't blame the camcorder as many others have on the internet. See my comments regarding IS below.
On to the review:
1. AVCHDThe HDR-UX1 is one of the first camcorders to be able to record in High Definition using the AVCHD format. You have only two options at this time in playing back video recorded in high defiiniton: 1. Playback by hooking up the camcorder directly to a tv 2. Install Sony's software to playback on a computer. WARNING !!!: The AVCHD software requires a very fast computer. My computer has 2 gigs of RAM, a 256 mb dedicated ATI video card, and a AMD Athlon 64 3500+ processor. I tried playing back AVCHD on my brother's computer (Sempron 2.2 ghz w/ 512 mb RAM) and the video was choppy and after 4 min of playback his computer froze. Video playback is quite smooth on my computer, but I can't wait till they release DVD players that are compatible with AVCHD files. Also, at this time there are no viable AVCHD editing options. This means you will have to leave the video that you shoot in tact. Not a problem for me since the last thing I want to do after a vacation is spend hours on the computer editing video.
2. Mini DVD+R DL supportThis is the first Sony DVD camcorder that supports dual layer mini dvd. Only DVD+R or RW is supported. Using a DL mini dvd, recording time ranges from 27 to 60 mins in high definition and 35 to 110 mins in standard definition. If this is not enough recording time, consider the HDR-SR1 (hard drive based)or HC3 (mini dvd based). The DVD works fine for me. Here is how I use the camcorder: I shoot all video in high def. I then use the Sony software to convert my high def video to standard def. dvd. This way, I have a master high def dvd and another one to show friends and family.
3. Picture QualityImagine if you could shoot video that was as clear as the pictures taken by a SLR digital camera. That's what high definition video looks like. Absolutely breath taking!!! The pictures are so detailed and the colors so vivid. There has been a lot of talk on the net that the AVCHD format results in a lot of noise due to compression. I could no detect any noise or artifacts in the video that I shot outdoors (even cloudy conditions). However, there is some noise when shooting in low light conditions, but the quality is still very nice.
4. Battery lifeThis camera supports the included NP-FM50 battery (1.5 hours), optional NP-QM71D (4 hrs recording time,) and optional NP-QM91D (6 hours recording time)( extended batteries. These figures are very respectable and I like the fact that Sony used existing battery models.
5. LCD ScreenThe screen is a 3.5" widescreen and is beautiful. My only complaint is that all controls are touch screen and I am always nervous that I will end up scratching the screen. Sony should have really included a plastic screen protector.
6. JacksThis unit is full of jacks: Component video, hdmi, headphone, microphone, usb, etc. A component video cable is included, but no hdmi cable
7. Image stabilizationSony dropped the ball here. The image stabilization is electronic and not optical. The HD pic quality is so detailed that it really requires optical IS. I feel that the IS system on this unit is a tad slow and could be more fluid. IIf you have good camcorder technique (e.g you don't wiggle the camcorder all over the place) then turn on IS. Otherwise, turn it off. Many people on the net have unfairly criticized AVCHD saying that video playback is choppy on their computers. I would bet you that in some cases the cause of the choppiness is the IS system trying to compensate for their poor video technique.
8. Handling-Definitely bigger and heavier than a mini dv camcorder, but is very nicely weighted.
9. Digital StillsI haven't even tried shooting pics since I have a digital slr.
10. MiscNo shoulder strap is included and no starter dvd is included. What the heck is Sony thinking? No shoulder strap on a unit that retails at $1,399.99? Also, why not throw in one blank dvd so people can shoot video right out of the box.
Overall: Highly recommended at Amazon's price of $799 + free bluetooth microphone. Don't be scared off by the video compression rants on the internet. Unless, you are planning on using thing to shoot a Hollywood movie, you will be fine. If you are still hesitating in buying this unit, think of it as a standard definition camcorder with high definition capabilities throw in for free. Heck, this camcorder is only $70 more than the DCR-DVD505 camcorder (Sony's top of the line standard def dvd unit).
Buy Sony HDR-UX1 AVCHD 4MP High-Definition DVD Camcorder with 10x Optical Zoom Now
There have already been a few well articulated reviews for this camcorder so I won't rehash the technical details of the camera. What I will do is caution you on over analyzing this product with what you read on the internet. Two sites, camcorderinfo.com and cnet.com do a pretty good job in their reviews of the HDR-UX1. But keep in mind that they are writing from the perspective of the tech junkie and/or semi-professional videographer.I, on the other hand, am just your average consumer looking to take advantage of affordable HD technology with the purchase of my first camcorder. I have had my camera for a week and have put it through every conceivable test. The bottom line is that it is one of the best cameras I have ever used.
Most online reviews seem to focus on things like "noise" and "compression" issues. I saw none of that when playing back on my 42" Plasma HDTV. The HDMI port on the camera made playback a breeze. Just plug and play literally. The 5.1 channel built-in microphone was really cool too. While recording my dog in the yard, I whistled for him to come and recorded him running towards me. When I played it back on my TV, you could clearly hear my whistle on the back channel speakers of my home theater and hear the dog galloping towards me on the front speakers for a truly surround sound experience.
As for the picture, forget the negatives you hear about AVCHD. The compression worked just fine. It was clear, sharp and definitely in high definition. The video just popped off the screen beautifully and the colors where almost perfectly represented. I didn't see any "noise" that I had read about from other reviews on other websites. Even if you are a professional production company looking for a portable camera to use in the field, this one does the job.
Other features I really like that are not usually talked about are the night shot mode and the still camera ability. Night shot gives it that Desert Storm night vision look. Maybe it is just a novelty with no real practical use, but a really cool feature nonetheless. As for the built-in 4 mega pixel ability as a still camera...one word impressive. Most people don't buy camcorders for their snapshot abilities, but for someone like me who hikes and mountain climbs regularly, I needed an all-in-one unit with good results. Again, using my dog as a subject I snapped off about 10 still images in different lighting conditions and zoom levels. I then downloaded them to my computer and printed them to my Epson Photo Printer at 8" x 12" on photo paper. I got perfect results. So not only do I have a top-notch camcorder, I have a very good digital still camera as well.
Finally, I agree that there are very few options for editing video at the moment. But that should be temporary. The software industry just has to play catch-up to the AVCHD technology. For now, you can do some basic clipping of video with the supplied software. But the ability to burn to standard DVD from the camera is simple and effective. I shot a quick 2-minute movie in high definition; connected my camera to the computer; uploaded the movie to my desktop; then simply right-clicked the file and clicked "Burn to DVD." The Sony software took care of converting it to a standard DVD and burned it all within about 5 minutes. The playback quality going from HD to standard DVD was the same as any DVD movie you rent at the local Blockbuster. In other words, it looked great and even carried over the Dolby 5.1 onto the DVD. Sure it wasn't a true 1080i recording like the original but even down-converting from the high def of the camera to a standard DVD that can be shared with friends and family was a simple process with great recording quality.
The only real negative I can see at this point is recording time and weight. Other reviewers have mentioned the short record time. I agree. Just 15 minutes for HD+ mode is too short, but keep in mind you can now buy dual layered mini DVDs that double that time. Also, just knock the record mode down to the HD-Standard or HD-LP mode (instead of HD+) and you get a few more minutes. I for one sort of expected short record times so I can live with it. I'll just make sure I always have a half-dozen or so blank DVDs in my camera case. The Sony HDR-SR1 might be a better option for you because it records 4 hours of HD video to a hard drive, but you still have upload to your computer and burn it to DVD if you plan on sharing it. The weight of the camera is pretty hefty by today's standards. My parents have a Canon DC40 and it is a feather compared to the HDR-UX1. I could hold the Canon up chest high and take video all day long, but with the Sony, you definitely know you're holding nearly 2 lbs. It's not a big deal, but for long hikes in the mountains when you're trying to record while walking and carrying a backpack, it can tire the shoulders out pretty quickly.
The last paragraph is probably the only reason I didn't give this camera 5 stars. Also, it's tough to give a perfect score to any first generation product. No doubt the technology for HD camcorder will improve quickly, but for now, I couldn't be happier with the purchase. A very nice product for the average consumer. Don't over-analyze the technical side of other reviews you might read on the internet.
Read Best Reviews of Sony HDR-UX1 AVCHD 4MP High-Definition DVD Camcorder with 10x Optical Zoom Here
A lot has already been said and there are some excellent reviews here (as well as elsewhere), but I just want to add my 2 cents. I purchased this guy a few months back, and have since purchased a light and a second battery for it (I'll talk about those shortly).My favorite features include:
1. The 3.5" screen, which should be a must for ANY camcorder, as the 2.5" screens common today are worthless IMHO.
2. The sliding door for accessing the HDMI port as well as the other video ports. This is unique to Sony's UX1 and SR1 HD Camcorders (as far as I can tell) and is the BEST implementation I have seen to cover and uncover ports. Much better than the little plastic plugs that inevitably break-off and are lost.
3. Beautiful, detailed video.
My least favorite features include:
1. The stupid little plastic cover plug for the power port. As mentioned above, this camera has a great sliding door for all its video plugs. Inexplicably, Sony used the plastic plug for the power port, which is right next to the video ports and could have used the sliding door. Stupid. Mine is already threatening to break.
2. Short recording times. It is hard to blame Sony for the short recording time on DVDs. This is just a fact of life and the short time isn't limited to the HD DVD camcorders but it problematic for all DVD camcorders (though less so than here). You make a choice and you live with it. While lots of the reviews mention the dual layer DVDs out there, they are MUCH more expensive and I don't even really consider them an option. Luckily, the lower quality modes still look very good, especially when taping outside. For lower light situations, I would use the higher quality settings. Still, all of the video I take with this thing looks better than any standard def. stuff you may see. Also, related to the DVD issue is that the camera insists on popping up a little comment saying it recommends Sony brand DVDs every time I put in any other brand. This is completely annoying and Sony should rethink the way they try to lock you in to their own brand.
3. Automatic lens cover. Not having to bother with a cover is a great little addition to this thing.
Features I thought I wanted but could have lived without:
I haven't yet used the focus ring or the mic in or headphone out yet. I really wanted these, but in retrospect, they were unnecessary for my home use. The mic on this thing is plenty good, and I just don't want to mess with the focus at the end of the day.
Other notes:
I purchased a light and an extra battery here on Amazon and couldn't be happier with them. The light is the Sony HVL-HL1 and the battery is the same one that comes with the camera, the Sony NPFM50. The light is just right to give a boost to indoor recording and makes the picture MUCH better in low light situations. It's only 3 watts but seems VERY bright. It attaches to the hot shoe on the top of the camera. It's priced right and works flawlessly.
As for the grainy picture mentioned by many reviews, I haven't noticed anything distracting. Every camera has positive and negative aspects, but I am more than happy with the quality of video this thing takes.
I give this Camcorder 5 stars not because it is perfect, but if you weigh the price and the features, I'm not sure there is a better HD or SD camera out there right now. It would not be worth the list price, but at the price they have it for now, you simply can't beat it, as long as you can live with the DVD format. If that is a dealbreaker for you (it wasn't for me, obviously), it's a dealbreaker, but otherwise, this is by far the best buy at this price point.
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This is an awesome piece of equipment! This cam produces some of the most stunning video and right now the price has to be the deal of the decade! The dvd format is outstanding and it really is the best of both worlds. I use -rw discs and copy my video to my computer then reformat the disc (which takes about 7 seconds) and use it over and over again so the price of media is virtually nothing, unlike tape which you have to keep buying and buying. The other benefit is unlike a hard disk based cam I dont have to worry about the drive filling up while I'm on vacation with no place to offload the video. And unlike A tape based cam I dont have all the problems associated with tape like head cleaning and trying to dig out tape that is wrapped up inside the cam or having to endure hours of tedious capturing or having to properly tension a tape before use or how big of a box I need to store all those old tapes in or worrying about recording over something I have already shot. I could go on and on and on about it but tape is just an old unreliable pain in the rear. As you can tell I have had bad experiences with tape based cam's so enough of that.The AVCHD codec is very efficient you will have about 4.5gb per hour of video compared to 13gb per hour of video from a tape based hdv cam and it records audio in dolby 5.1 surround which is alot better than the stereo only that you get with hdv.
Others have mentioned the short recording time and I suppose it may be an issue for someone but it is not for me. Think about it when you are watching tv or a movie how many times does the cam just sit there pointed at one thing without a break for longer than a minute (or even a few seconds)? There is nothing I can think of that I can record for more than 20 minutes (hq mode) straight that I would want to sit down and watch anyways. Now if you have to record something like a childs school play sure maybe a couple times in your childs life you need an hour shot but I dont and even if an event took say 1 hour straight it only takes 15 seconds to change out a disc and be recording again so in 1 hour I would change twice and miss 30 seconds of video, not a big deal. Most all the stuff I shoot is like 1-3 minutes tops and I'm on to the next scene. I have shot a wedding and I was able to get all of it from the time the bride walks in to the time the couple walks out all on 1 20 minute disc. I think most of the people that complain about short recording times are just to lazy to change a disc! As far as the video being noisy in low light well give me a break, it does but so does every other cam that is priced south of $3,500.00! Besides that they do make these things called lights! In the daylight there is no noise at all in the video when played back on my HDTV, just beautiful high def video.
The bottom line for me is that this cam is by far the best bang for the buck available today. Nothing in this price range even comes close to the video quality that this cam produces. It is a snap to record brilliant video and transfer it to the computer. Editing options are limited right now but they do exist and more are on the way so the editing thing is a non issue as well. It has pro type features that are just not found on other cams and I especially like the manual adjustment ring and I would never own a cam again that did not have at least a 3.5" lcd screen. Having used the smaller 2.7" screens before I can tell you that the big screen is way better especially when you are trying to manually adjust elements like focus and exposure. With the big screen you can actually tell what your video will look like, the small screens just dont show enough detail. This cam also takes beautiful still pictuers, I could keep going on and on but the truth is I really enjoy everthing that this cam has to offer and I would not trade it for anything else.
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