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Sony HVR-Z1U 1/3" 3-CCD HDV Camcorder
Blurring the line between consumer and professional video cameras Sony has created the HVR-Z1U camcorder. It adheres to the HDV Consortium's specifications for 1080i recording on popular DV mini cassettes. This camera represents the widest array of professional features within a new standard of miniaturization. The HDV video standard will provide about double the resolution of the old standard DV formats.
In contrast with consumer cameras, this pro model HVR-Z1U offers many special functions that the professional operator will immediately appreciate. Just as an example, the HVR-Z1U will keep track of the hours of operation the camera endures. Another example of the pro camera's greater abilities is that it records and plays in DVCAM, consumer DV (SP mode), and the HDV formats. You may also use the LCD screen simultaneously with the viewfinder, a function not found in the consumer model.
The design of the camera is aimed directly at the filmmaker, the most modern event video producers and even widescreen news shooters. Because it records in high definition and standard definition modes it can be used in a variety of production scenarios that may change from client to client or evolve over time. It is NTSC and PAL system compatible as well.
- High Definition and Standard Definition, and Film-Looks
- The HVR-Z1U is Sony's first attempt at a mini-sized camcorder for the newest high definition monitors. The camera records in 16:9 widescreen with native widescreen chips. It will output component video in 1080i, 480i and 480p formats. In fact it will output 60 frame, 50 frame, 30 frame and 25 frame standards. An additional function is HD to SD down conversion. Another feature of the camera is the CineFrame Mode that replicates the look of film production. The mode has 30 frame, 25 frame and 24 frame modes that utilize a 3:2 pull down conversion. Additionally the camera has the ability to down-convert HD captured video to standard definition video for viewing on a SD monitor or for systems that require SD video.
- High Quality Lens
- High resolution video starts with the finest glass lens appropriate to the camera. The HVR-Z1U has a Carl Zeiss designed lens, a world leader in optical technology. With the most advanced glass composition and the most efficient anti-reflective coatings this HDV camera captures the sharpest most detailed pictures in the most compact design available.
- World-Wide Compatibility
- The HDV camcorder is both NTSC and PAL and 50i/60i systems compatible which is a first for the pro-sumer 3-CCD camera market. This allows the industrial and event videographer to satisfy clients almost anywhere in the civilized world. The high-def formats are inherently universal being digital algorithmic constructions.
- Color Correction for Special Effects
- This very advanced feature allows the user to adjust color of a target subject without affection the color of the remainder of the scene. As a fascinating special effect one object may show color while the remaining scene is black and white. In fact 2 target colors may be chosen and controlled for color phase, color gain and other parameters.
- One-Touch Custom Set-Ups
- The HVR-Z1U has 6 buttons for your special custom setting memories and menu selections. A single button push will set the camera to your specific outdoor, fluorescent or color correction selected options. Menu items like REC REVIEW, Back-Light, Spot-Light features may be selected to one of the assignable buttons.
- Viewfinder and LCD Monitor Features
- Essentially all functions viewable through the viewfinder will be displayed on the 3.3-inch LCD screen- and both can be used simultaneously. Safety markers for 4:3 can be generated on a widescreen image for use with the Edge Crop function. The widescreen marker can be displayed on 4:3 recordings. All markers may be selected simultaneously. Zoom ratio display may be shown as a bar graph or in numerical readout as menu selected. Of course all supplemental viewfinder information may be turned off completely as well.
- Color Bars and Hours Metering
- The HVR-Z1U has 2 sets of color bars for accurate color representation. Full SMPTE bars and standard bars may be selected through menu settings. Diagnostic metering has been available on large professional camera from the very beginning of ENG shooting. This little camera is the first to address this requirement in a small camera. Operation, Drum Run, Tape Run and Threading hours are all available for maintenance purposes.
| Signal System |
NTSC and PAL Systems Recording 1080/60i, 1080/50i, 480/60i, 576/50i Playback 1080i/60, 1080i/50, 480/60i, 576/50i, 480/60p, 576/50p |
| Image Device |
3-CCD, 1/3" 16:9 Aspect 1.12 Million Pixels Total Each Chip |
| Lens |
4.5-54mm 12x Optical Zoom f/1.6 to f/2.4 72mm Filter Diameter |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
| Horizontal Resolution |
1080 Lines Horizontal Pixels 1440 Vertical Pixels |
| Sensitivity | Not Specified By Manufacturer |
| Minimum Illumination | 3 Lux |
| Vertical Smear | Not Specified By Manufacturer |
| Built-in Filters |
1/4 ND (1.5 stops) 1/32 ND (5 stops) |
| LCD Monitor |
3.5" 16:9 Aspect LCD Monitor and Viewfinder Can Be Used Simultaneously |
| Viewfinder | Color |
| Scan Matching | Yes |
| Memory Card Slot | No |
| Shutter Speed Range | 1/4-1/10,000 |
| Gain Selection | 0 dB, (+)3 dB, 6 dB, 9 dB, 12 dB, 15 dB, 18 dB |
| VTR | |
|---|---|
| Tape Format |
DVCAM Small Cassette HDV Record and Play DVCAM Record and Play DV Record and Play |
| Tape Speed |
HDV: 18.8 mm/s DVCAM: 28.2 mm/s DV SP Mode: 18.8 mm/s |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | Not Specified By Manufacturer |
| Maximum Recording Time |
HDV: 60 min DVCAM: 40 min DV: 60 min |
| Audio | |
|---|---|
| Audio Dynamic Range | Not Specified By Manufacturer |
| Audio Signal Format |
HDV MPEG1 Audio Layer II DVCAM/DV 16-bit/48kHz 2 Channel Mode 12-bit/32kHz 4 Channel Mode |
| Audio Frequency Response | 20Hz to 20kHz |
| Signal to Noise Ratio | Not Specified By Manufacturer |
| General | |
|---|---|
| Input and Output Connectors |
HD/SD Component: 3 RCA (x1 Output) Firewire: 4-Pin (x1 Input, x2 Output) S-Video: 4-Pin (x1 Input, x2 Output) Composite Video: RCA (x1 Input, x2 Output) Mic Audio: XLR (x2 Input) Audio: RCA (x2 Output) Headphone: Stereo Mini (x1) LANC Control: Mini (x1) |
| Power Requirements | 100-240VAC with AC-VQ850D AC Adapter |
| Power Consumption | 8.4W |
| Operating Temperature | 32-104°F (0-40°C) |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 6 x 7.1 x 14.4" (15.2 x 18.1 x 16.5cm) |
| Weight | 4.3 lbs (1.9kg) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 32 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
100%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Great picture quality (19)
- Comfortable to operate (15)
- Durable (13)
- Great features (12)
- Great sound (10)
Cons
- Poor battery life (3)
Best Uses
- Movies/short films (14)
- Outdoor events / games (9)
- Travel (7)
- Weddings (7)
- HD shooting (6)
- How long have you owned it:
A month or less
One-to-three months
Three-to-six months
More than six months
71%
(5 reviews)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Professional (8), Pro videographer (4), Semi-pro (4), Semi-professional (4)
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 32 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-20
Previous | Next »
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Movies/Short Films
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sony HVR-Z1U 1/3" 3-CCD HDV Camcorder:
I love my camera! I've had it for 3 years now, and I don't have one complaint. I've used it to shoot weddings, commercials, music videos, live stage productions and it hasn't failed me yet!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
- 12x Zoom
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- ENG
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Live Events
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sony HVR-Z1U 1/3" 3-CCD HDV Camcorder:
I picked up the HVR-Z1U to shoot ENG. I can't say enough about how great it is! From the XLR to iLink for a digital recorder, this camera can't go wrong. And since it's small, it's easier to handle vs the news business big shoulder cameras. I can get in and out with ease. And the controls and menu are simple to use.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Comfortable to Operate
- Durable
- Great Features
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Simple Controls
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- Editing
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
Comments about Sony HVR-Z1U 1/3" 3-CCD HDV Camcorder:
I purchased this camera to produce product videos for my company. This camera is amazing. The quality will rival much larger - more expensive cameras.
Pros
- Comfortable to Operate
- Durable
- Great Features
- Simple Controls
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- Movies/Short Films
Comments about Sony HVR-Z1U 1/3" 3-CCD HDV Camcorder:
This camera is great for documentary work, it is lightweight and with lots of pro menu options. Nice and comfortable design, although some problems with light sensibility.
Pros
- Comfortable to Operate
- Great Picture Quality
- Simple Controls
Cons
Best Uses
- Home Movies
- Travel
Comments about Sony HVR-Z1U 1/3" 3-CCD HDV Camcorder:
Handles dark areas very well. If outdoor shooting in dark clouds, results are very good.
Pros
- Comfortable to Operate
- Great Features
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
Cons
- Poor Battery Life
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
Comments about Sony HVR-Z1U 1/3" 3-CCD HDV Camcorder:
I love this camera as much as I love my wife,and I used for shooting a christine music video karaoke, it the Best camera I ever own. Thanks God for His blessing.
Pros
- Comfortable to Operate
- Great Features
- Great Picture Quality
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
Comments about Sony HVR-Z1U 1/3" 3-CCD HDV Camcorder:
This was a perfect choice for me as it's ability to shoot HD and SD is what sold me. The camera is light and well balanced. I'm not sold on CMOS so the 3 CCD capture system was a plus. The camera travels well also.
Pros
- Comfortable to Operate
- Durable
- Great Features
- Great Picture Quality
Cons
- Poor Sound
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
Comments about Sony HVR-Z1U 1/3" 3-CCD HDV Camcorder:
I still love the HVR-Z1U that I bought from B&H when it first came out in 2003.
Even though the technology behind this camera may seem a bit old in the very fast paced world of HD video cameras, there is no doubt that the HVRZ1U was very mature when it fist came out and still is a solid and reliable piece of equipment in todays environnement.
Thanks Sony and B&H.
Michel Gallone
Sowatt Music Video Production
Prilly, Switzerland
Pros
- Comfortable to Operate
- Great Features
- Great Picture Quality
Cons
- Poor Sound
Best Uses
- Family
- Movies/Short Films
- Special Events
- Weddings
Comments about Sony HVR-Z1U 1/3" 3-CCD HDV Camcorder:
quality is crisp. lots of control options. i love it
Pros
- Great Picture Quality
- Simple Controls
Cons
Best Uses
- Special Events
- Sports
- Weddings
Comments about Sony HVR-Z1U 1/3" 3-CCD HDV Camcorder:
We use this camera for in our new business for weddings, reunions, graduations from drug programs -- or for any other excuse. We have two of them: They can be programed in such a way that they work in sync to the frame. Great feature. I give this camera 5 stars. I also bought the extended warranty. If I drop it in the water, all I do is fish it out and they will take care of it. Great insurance!
Pros
- Comfortable to Operate
- Durable
- Great Features
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Sony HVR-Z1U 1/3" 3-CCD HDV Camcorder:
Works well, easy to use, and great quality
Pros
- Comfortable to Operate
- Great Features
- Simple Controls
Cons
- Poor Battery Life
Best Uses
- Movies/Short Films
- Special Events
Comments about Sony HVR-Z1U 1/3" 3-CCD HDV Camcorder:
With any of my previous camcorder I always found difficult to zoom-in/out without a little shaking. This time I have been able to do so without a problem.
Service and delivery comments:
As usual, it arrived in time and perfectly packaged.
Pros
- Comfortable to Operate
- Durable
- Great Picture Quality
- Versatile
Cons
- Inadequate Features
Best Uses
- Documentary
Comments about Sony HVR-Z1U 1/3" 3-CCD HDV Camcorder:
I use the Z1 to shoot my own documentaries and art movies, and to shoot 2nd camera for other production companies. It's industry standard for observational documentaries with small budgets. Cons: I wish it had exchangeable lens, and a filmic setting like the Panasonic AG-HVX200. The focus ring doesn't have a stop on it which is very annoying.
Pros
- Comfortable to Operate
- Durable
- Great Features
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Simple Controls
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Movies/Short Films
- Special Events
- Weddings
Comments about Sony HVR-Z1U 1/3" 3-CCD HDV Camcorder:
easy to use menus and manuals will have u filming like a pro in no time.
it switches from pal to ntsc and hdv to dv withought hastle and i like it for that.
Pros
- Comfortable to Operate
- Durable
- Great Features
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Simple Controls
- Versatile
Cons
- Not the best in low light
Best Uses
- Movies/Short Films
- Music Videos
- Special Events
- Sports
- TV Spots Infomercials
- Weddings
Comments about Sony HVR-Z1U 1/3" 3-CCD HDV Camcorder:
As an Producer, Director and Artist, if you take time to master this camera, you can produce amazing pictures close to Sony's [$] cameras. Your aperture, lighting, filters, depth of field, proper exposure and white balance is the key. [@]
Pros
- Durable
- Great Features
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
Cons
Best Uses
- Corporate
- Special Events
Comments about Sony HVR-Z1U 1/3" 3-CCD HDV Camcorder:
i use this cam for corporate video. It works well for that. It's not great for run-n-gun material due to the fact that you can't place it on your shoulder and still see the viewfinder/monitor. Well, I guess that's common with all prosumer cameras.
- How long have you owned it:
- A month or less
Pros
- Comfortable to Operate
- Durable
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
Cons
- Poor Battery Life
Best Uses
- Movies/Short Films
- Special Events
- Travel
- Weddings
Comments about Sony HVR-Z1U 1/3" 3-CCD HDV Camcorder:
This little camera is impressive, it's easy to start with, easy to work with, the result are wonderful. [...]THANK YOU !!!
- How long have you owned it:
- A month or less
Pros
- Comfortable to Operate
- Durable
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Versatile
Cons
- audio controls are tricky
Best Uses
- Movies/Short Films
- Special Events
Comments about Sony HVR-Z1U 1/3" 3-CCD HDV Camcorder:
I travel and do cultural documentaries. This is a good camera for what I do. Light, but not too light. Good controls on it. Good in low light. Overall another excellent Sony camera. Dual xlr is a must. I use it with 2 senheiser g2 packs. I'd love it if there was interchangeable lenses.
- How long have you owned it:
- More than six months
- Recommended:
- Senheiser g2
Pros
- Comfortable to Operate
- Durable
- Great Features
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Simple Controls
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Movies/Short Films
Comments about Sony HVR-Z1U 1/3" 3-CCD HDV Camcorder:
I´m a movie maker and I have one HDVZ1 since 2006. It has good image and easy controls. However, with low light there are some problems (noise) and should be better if the zoom lens were higher (20x for example).
- How long have you owned it:
- More than six months
- Similar:
- Sony PD170
Pros
- Durable
- Great Picture Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Movies/Short Films
- Special Events
- Travel
Comments about Sony HVR-Z1U 1/3" 3-CCD HDV Camcorder:
Been using this camera for 1.5 years now, and whether it's event video or live-action handheld work, the picture quality is really great. The colors aren't nearly as red in saturation as the Canon GL1/2. Battery life, even w/using the flip out LCD, is stunning (I've gotten 5.5 hours ... with the LCD in use the whole time).
- How long have you owned it:
- More than six months
- Similar:
- Canon GL2
Displaying reviews 1-20
Previous | Next »
- Brochure (PDF 2.9mb)
- Operating Guide (PDF 5.2mb)
Media
Recording media is not included. Be prepared-always carry extra media.
- Price: $6.00
- GBP 3.83
Batteries & Power Adapters
Always keep a spare battery handy so you won't get caught without power.
- Price: $104.95
- GBP 67.01
Lenses & Lens Adapters
Capture your desired angle of view with a quality conversion lens.
- Price: $567.50
- GBP 362.33
External Microphones
Focus your sound with a high-quality microphone. Audio quality can make or break your video.
- Price: $299.95
- GBP 191.51
Tripod & Stationary Supports
Stabilize the your footage and eliminate handheld fatigue with the support you need.
- Price: $149.00
- Instant Savings: -$30.00 Offer ends JUN 30 '12
- You Pay: $119.00
- GBP 75.98
Filters
Protect your lens or produce a desired visual effect by adding a filter.
- Price: $117.95
- GBP 75.31
On-Camera Monitors
Compose your shots, detect color temperature issues, and check critical focus.
- Price: $432.00
- GBP 275.82
LCD Hoods & Protective Coverings
Shield your camcorder from unwanted glare and wet/extreme conditions.
- Price: $43.34
- GBP 27.67
External Storage Recorders
Expand your camcorder's recording capabilities in the field.
- Price: $1,119.00
- GBP 714.45
Zoom & Focus Controllers
Control your camcorder from a distance, and eliminate hand-vibration in your footage.
- Price: $203.95
- GBP 130.22
What's in the Box
- AC Adapter and Battery Charger
- Battery Pack
- Wireless Remote Control with AA Batteries
- A/V Cable
- Component Video Cable
- Large Eye Cup
- Accessory Shoe Extender
- Lens Hood with Integral Lens Cap
-
1-Year Parts and 90 Days Labor Warranty except:
2-Years Parts on CCD Block
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