Sony HDR-FX7 3CMOS HDV 1080i Camcorder
- Price: $1,998.00
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- In Stock
Remember the Essentials
Recording media is not included, be prepared - always carry extra media.
The Sony HDR-FX7 is a lightweight camcorder capable of delivering 1080i video via MiniDV tapes using the HDV format. This camera bears some resemblance to the Sony HDR-FX1 in both form and function, but boasts a few changes sure to entice consumers, enthusiasts and professionals alike.
The camera comes equipped with three CMOS sensors. These sensors are arranged in the same manner as the more prevalent 3CCD cameras, one for each color channel. Sony's CMOS ClearVID technology helps increase resolution and image clarity while keeping the camera compact enough to take almost anywhere.
Additionally, the camera features both HDMI (High Definition Media Interface) output, along with optical image stabilization. All of this, combined with Sony's reputation for durability and reliability, makes the HDR-FX7 a perfect solution for news and event videography.
- High Definition on MiniDV Tapes with HDV
- The HDV format used in the HDR-FX7 allows high definition recording on standard MiniDV tapes! This is accomplished by using the very popular MPEG-2 compression technique used in many applications, including DVDs.
- ClearVID 3CMOS Technology
- Sony's ClearVID sensors are positioned at a 45° angle. Since each pixel is positioned at this angle the result is far clearer diagonal lines. Images will appear crisper, without the apparent "jaggies" that often plague video signals.
- HDMI Output
- Many consumer products are adopting High Definition Media Interface (HDMI) connections for transmitting uncompressed digital HD video signals. Sony incorporates this into an already extensive array of video output choices on the FX7. Simply hook the camera up to your HDTV via this interface and view all your footage the way it was meant to be seen: purely digital!
- Small and Lightweight
- The FX7 has shaved off a few pounds in comparison to its big brother, the FX1, weighing in at less than 4 lbs! Not only will users be able to take this feature-rich camera almost anywhere, the reduced arm strain enables longer shoots.
- Optical Stabilization
- Sony has incorporated the sophisticated Super SteadyShot® optical stabilization system on the HDR-FX7. This technology helps users achieve glass-smooth shots even when conditions are less than forgiving.
- Expanded Focus Assist
- Focusing high definition can be very difficult on smaller LCDs. Their size makes it very hard to discern whether a scene is completely in focus or not. Sony's answer to this phenomenon is to give users the ability to zoom in; by localizing a segment of the frame, verifying focus becomes worlds easier.
- 20x Carl Zeiss Lens
- The 20x lens fitted to the FX7 can be very useful when subjects are further away, such as when shooting live events and sports.
- Precision Focus and Zoom Controls
- The FX7 features both a zoom and focus ring capable of making precise adjustments while having the tactile feeling of manual controls.
- Highly Customizable
- Buttons can be mapped to a variety of different functions on the outside of the unit, allowing users to customize the camcorder for their specific needs. This can be very useful, especially if different situations demand several user-defined controls being readily available.
| Signal System |
NTSC/HDTV HDV, DV |
| Image Device | 1/4" 3CMOS, 16:9, 1080i Capture |
| Lens |
Carl Zeiss 20x Vario-Sonnar T 37.4-748mm, f/1.6-2.8 |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
| Horizontal Resolution | 1080 Lines |
| Minimum Illumination | 4 Lux |
| Vertical Smear | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
| Built-in Filters | ND 1/4, 1/16 |
| LCD Monitor | 3.5" |
| Viewfinder | Color, 252,000 Pixels (16:9) |
| Scan Matching |
Yes Different Ranges for Different Record Modes |
| Memory Card Slot | Memory Stick PRO |
| Shutter Speed |
Auto: 1/60-1/2000 Manual: 1/4-1/10000 |
| Gain Selection | 0-18 dB |
| VTR | |
|---|---|
| Tape Format | MiniDV |
| Tape Speed | 18.812 mm/s |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
| Maximum Recording Time | 60 min |
| Audio | |
|---|---|
| Audio Dynamic Range | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
| Audio Signal Format |
HDV: MPEG, Stereo DV: PCM |
| Audio Frequency Response | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
| General | |
|---|---|
| Input and Output Connectors |
Analog A/V: RCA Composite (x1 Output) Digital A/V: i.LINK/FireWire, USB (x1 Input, x1 Output) Component Video (Y/Pb/Pr) (x1 Output) Headphone Jack: Stereo Mini Microphone Input: Stereo Mini HDMI (x1 Output) LANC: 2.5mm Mini (x1 Input) |
| Power Requirements |
7.2 VDC (Battery Pack) 8.4 VDC (AC Adapter) |
| Power Consumption |
HDV: 5.9W (VF/LCD) DV: 5.7W (VF/LCD) |
| Operating Temperature |
32° to 104° F 0° to 40° C |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 5.8 x 6.2 x 12.8" (14.5 x 15.6 x 32.2 cm) |
| Weight | 3.6 lb (1.6 kg) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 111 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
97%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Great picture quality (87)
- Zoom range/performance (87)
- Easy to use (58)
- Image stabilization (54)
- Large clear LCD (54)
Cons
- Poor in low light (15)
- Poor sound (9)
- Poor still image (5)
- Complicated to operate (4)
- No external mic input (4)
Best Uses
- HD shooting (69)
- Documentaries (55)
- Movies/short films (53)
- Weddings (44)
- Travel (40)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Semi-pro (40), Pro videographer (30), Enthusiast (22), Casual user (7)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (31)
Most Liked Positive Review
Sony FX7
I Received the FX7 after reading and visiting Sony Web. sight and B&H people reviews. I am pleased with the Camera.And many people come up to me with how do you like i...Read complete review
I Received the FX7 after reading and visiting Sony Web. sight and B&H people reviews. I am pleased with the Camera.And many people come up to me with how do you like it.I really like it.And I tell them I have used B&H for past 15 years to buy items.I will say I started with a Sony Handycam CCD TR3300 High 8.Then a Canon Optura XI 1CCD.It was a good improvement fron HI 8 to dital 8 Quality.But didn't like the small viewfinder.The larger 2.7 LCD was what I used.I was also not fond of 12X Optical. I was used to 20x.So I used that for 3 years. And HD has changed our world.Now about the FX7 plug it into A 42" Plasma Hithchi TV.Bang! WOW !.I use it for Varsity Football.Large EYE Cup and Viewfinder is so great to focus and see all the Action and to zoom out on kickoffs from telophoto and the 20X lens just right from press box.Side line sooting wounderfull low light no problems.I use the viewfinder over the LCD even though it is large enought and certainly bright enought outdoos as well with out the sony LCD shade.The mic does well from box office as well. I did buy the Rode NTG-2 shotgun mic. Used it and didn't make enought a difference for me. Bought the sony wireless UMP Package and put a guy on side lines and a home made paraoblic Dish.Better then shotgun mic and still picks up announcer but more sideline chatter and football sound. I think it's a better ballance it's not like having several mics on the field.I do burn to DVD and qualiys is so much better that Canon 1ccd and color brighter and Action Images sharper due to 3ccd. I will be Investig in software for HD to DVD And I'm told that BluRay to get the HD. But people don't want to spend the money for BluRay Disk.Next is Basketball. So next season for HD.Like always I'm sure that larger CCD 1/3 Z5U and 1/2 CCD even better. But I got a bang for my buck and I was looking at Canon but check it out for yourself SONY Got It.Now their will be others that may have better Video Cameras and better Equipment more knowledge. However Good quility clear focus steady shots not full of unwanetd footage and simple editing not showing off you special effects skills.And I still have to read the Manual its been 7 weeks of Football filming and DVD Burning. Go get it if you been thinking about it!!! I also Had the Charger from My Sony and batteries so If you Zoom in and out and shootin football games or events allways have plenty of power. Get the laregr (Sony) batteries & Charger ? Hope I have helped.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Do Not Recommend This Camera
I've owned this camera for 3 years and was very pleased with the results initally. I've noticed this last year the recorded image was looking as though it was out of focus. I sent ...Read complete review
I've owned this camera for 3 years and was very pleased with the results initally. I've noticed this last year the recorded image was looking as though it was out of focus. I sent it in for repair and was told this is a common issue for this camera. The problem is with the lens deck degrading in a short period of time and they do not recommend repairing as the cost is almost that of the camera new today. Very disspapointing to only get 2 years use from what was a [$] investment.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 111 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-20
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Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Sound
Cons
- No External Mic Input
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Travel
Comments about Sony HDR-FX7 3CMOS HDV 1080i Camcorder:
I had a Sony DCR-VX1000 for many years but it stopped working, and the part that I needed was no longer being made by Sony. So I purchased this camera and could not be happier. I do some video work on the side and the cam fits the bill. When played back on my HD TV the picture is amazing.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Zoom
Cons
- Poor In Low Light
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Movies/Short Films
Comments about Sony HDR-FX7 3CMOS HDV 1080i Camcorder:
Really solid camera, great use with good lighting. This is not the best camera for low -light, but serves its purpose in many other situations. I use this camera for documentary style production, music videos, and many other types of video production.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
Comments about Sony HDR-FX7 3CMOS HDV 1080i Camcorder:
I roam the neighorhoods doing 'people' stories for our ABC affiliate TV station. The camera is great. Very versitile and lets me get into the smallest and biggest of homes and offices.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Great Picture Quality
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
- Poor In Low Light
- Poor Sound
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sony HDR-FX7 3CMOS HDV 1080i Camcorder:
i use this camera for wedding videos and it works pretty well, i do recommend to always use an on camera light for any low light situation, video quality is great, and overall a good camera specially if you are in a [$] budget.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Movies/Short Films
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sony HDR-FX7 3CMOS HDV 1080i Camcorder:
5 Stars for this Sony HDR-FX7Im a videoproducer and I will use this full HD to film corporate videos.This is better than my HDR-FX1.The image colors are excellant and the picture quality is even better because this camera can record in HD or mini DVHaven't seen the results of HD on MiniDV tapes yet but the transition between 4:3 & 16:9 and SD & HD appears to be simple. The 20x optical zoom is amazing and works great in the outdoors. AND IS BETTER THAN THE 12X OPTICAL ZOOM OF MY HDR-FX1.[...]
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good in Low Light
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sony HDR-FX7 3CMOS HDV 1080i Camcorder:
First major issued occurred during the video shoot. This system's auto lock- hold wouldn't allow you to "unlock" so I wasn't able to change the exposure setting AND the focus wasn't sharp either. That started a few weeks before. So I called Sony and I ended up having to send it to a repair center in Texas. The warranty had expired by a month but they did reduce the repair cost to $600. Then about a year later I opened the compartment to insert a minidv... now the compartment won't close. And the camera is giving me an error message. Remove the mini-dv , nothing happened. The door still won't close. Press the reset button. Nothing changes. It's not worth it anymore. I had a Sony VX2000 before this one. It's got audio issues. Sony had let me down too many times. And it's unfortunate since I used to love them. I still have one of their digital high 8mm videocameras, and I love it. It still works. I use it to transfer customers home movies to dvd. It will be a LONG time before I trust Sony again. I have two other brands that I trust now.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sony HDR-FX7 3CMOS HDV 1080i Camcorder:
As a video artist and educator, I've had access to this camera for a few years through the college I teach at and finally got one myself.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sony HDR-FX7 3CMOS HDV 1080i Camcorder:
I needed a dedicated event camcorder as I use DSLR for movies and music videos. This seem to be the best cam in this price range. There are more manual controls than I expected. It is a step down from the Canon XH-A1 I recently sold, but I am happy with the purchase. I really like the 3.5" LCD screen. On the down side, it definitely could be a little better in low light situations. The only reason I wouldn't buy another is because HDV and tape are rapidly being replaced by AVCHD and SDHC/SDXC.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
- Poor In Low Light
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sony HDR-FX7 3CMOS HDV 1080i Camcorder:
Use it for filming all across the East Coast...Awesome Camera!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sony HDR-FX7 3CMOS HDV 1080i Camcorder:
We use the product for Dance Recitals, Weddings, etc. Love the ability to set your own presets. For the prices you get a lot of bang for your buck.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Movies/Short Films
Comments about Sony HDR-FX7 3CMOS HDV 1080i Camcorder:
Camera works great. I am a Video Coordinator for a football program, this camera works well for what we are using it for. Best part about it is i can use the dv side of it until i convert everything to hd. Smooth control and picture is great.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sony HDR-FX7 3CMOS HDV 1080i Camcorder:
I produce training videos for clients and needed a smaller camera for intricate shots of equipment. The FX-7 is relatively light and provides the quality I need for my videos.
I'm impressed with the balance of the camera and found it works well with the Glidecam 4000 and Smoothshooter.
Working in low light has yet to be a problem for me as some other people seem to have problems. Even though it does not have an XLR port, I purchased an adapter for my wireless mics and found the sound quality to be above average.
I found the instructions to be relatively simple and was able to use the camera out of the package.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Sony HDR-FX7 3CMOS HDV 1080i Camcorder:
Charge the battery and go!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
- Poor In Low Light
- Poor Still Image
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Movies/Short Films
- Skateboarding
Comments about Sony HDR-FX7 3CMOS HDV 1080i Camcorder:
I use this primarily for skateboarding videos and projects at film school. I find it easy to use if you actually spend the time reading the manual, its helps. Once you learn the camera, its very simple, other's complained about the lack of external mic input, but they must be blind or specifically want an xlr input, there is a mic input, but only for eighth inch inputs. You can buy and xlr to 1/8 inch cable if you need xlr inputs. If you want xlr inputs on the camera, you're gonna need to buy a more expensive camera. I find the image quality to be clear, even as people are moving to use 24p dslr's and what not. It shoots at 60i, or 1080i. This is not a drawback, as interlacing is how video has been for a long time. But if you really want your video to look like film, you might want a camera capable of 24p, or at least 30p. The still images are terrible, only 1 MP in size (my phone shoots 5MP), and they are littered with noise.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
- Complicated To Operate
- Poor In Low Light
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Movies/Short Films
Comments about Sony HDR-FX7 3CMOS HDV 1080i Camcorder:
HAVE USED THIS CAMERA FOR SHOOTING OF A 4 HOUR DRAMA TO BE AIRED FROM SATELLITE ...THE RESULT IS UN MATCHABLE TO ANY PROFESSIONAL CAMERA ...
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
- Short Lifespan
Best Uses
Comments about Sony HDR-FX7 3CMOS HDV 1080i Camcorder:
I've owned this camera for 3 years and was very pleased with the results initally. I've noticed this last year the recorded image was looking as though it was out of focus. I sent it in for repair and was told this is a common issue for this camera. The problem is with the lens deck degrading in a short period of time and they do not recommend repairing as the cost is almost that of the camera new today. Very disspapointing to only get 2 years use from what was a [$] investment.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Great Picture Quality
- Large Clear LCD
- Prity good low light
Cons
- Not anuf imputs
- Poor Still Image
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sony HDR-FX7 3CMOS HDV 1080i Camcorder:
ive used the sony z1u and this camera and id say this one is beter you will want to get the xlr adapter for it
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Great Picture Quality
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- Movies/Short Films
Comments about Sony HDR-FX7 3CMOS HDV 1080i Camcorder:
This camera is more than expected! It is primarily used by a 16 year old boy who is an aspiring videographer-filmmaker. Awesome! Dr. E
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sony HDR-FX7 3CMOS HDV 1080i Camcorder:
It is happy with purchase all perfectly thanks for professionalism and efficiency work as thanks for a site very reliable. I give an appreciation.
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
- Recording issues
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sony HDR-FX7 3CMOS HDV 1080i Camcorder:
I used the camera for shooting video of sporting events and live performances. The camera had some glitches which could have been unique to the unit alone. I wasn't sure, so I upgraded to the FX1000.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Displaying reviews 1-20
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- Operating Guide (PDF 3.5mb)
Media
Required item: Recording media is not included. Be prepared-always carry extra media.
- Price: $2.39
Batteries & Power Adapters
Always keep a spare battery handy so you won't get caught without power.
- Price: $98.90
-
- Original: $84.95
- Save: $10.00
- Price: $74.95
Lenses & Lens Adapters
Capture your desired angle of view with a quality conversion lens.
- Price: $279.00
-
- Original: $89.00
- Save: $8.90
- Price: $80.10
External Microphones
Focus your sound with a high-quality microphone. Audio quality can make or break your video.
- Price: $149.00
Bags & Cases
Carry, organize and protect your investment with quick access to your gear.
-
- Original: $79.95
- Save: $7.99
- Price: $71.96
What's in the Box
- AC-L15A AC Adapter
- RMT-831 Remote Control
- NP-F570 L-Series Info-Lithium Battery (7.2v, 2200mAh)
- Lens Hood
- USB Cable
- Composite A/V Cable
- Component Cable
-
1-Year Parts Warranty
90-Day Labor Warranty
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