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Sony HVR-Z5U Professional HDV Camcorder
- Price: $3,895.00
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Remember the Essentials
Recording media is not included, be prepared - always carry extra media.
The Sony HVR-Z5U is the highly-anticipated successor to the acclaimed HVR-Z1U. The camera improves upon its predecessor in a variety of areas, including overall performance and range of features. CinemaTone technology enhances both gamma and color, providing exceptional images that exhibit a beautiful film-like aesthetic. What makes the camera unique is its ability to shoot to both tape and compact flash simultaneously when using the HVR-MRC1K compact flash memory recording unit.
At the heart of the camcorder are three 1/3" ClearVid CMOS Exmor sensors, which capture detailed imagery even in extreme low light. Combined with a professional wide-angle lens and a super-high resolution LCD screen, the camera is ideal for all handheld professional applications, including weddings, news, independent film production and reality television.
- High Definition on MiniDV Tapes with HDV
- The HDV format, used in the HVR-Z5U allows high definition recording on standard MiniDV tapes. Experience "Window-to-the-world" clarity using the very popular MPEG-2 compression technique responsible for many forms of media used today, including DVDs and high-definition satellite television. The camera can also switch back to normal MiniDV mode when necessary.
- Watch Your CinemaTone
- The HVR-Z5U features CinemaToneTM technology, which comes in two flavors. CinemaTone GammaTM crushes blacks while keeping the mids and highlights detailed, while CinemaTone ColorTM deepens color reproduction for richer hues. Combine the two and footage becomes incredibly film-like. CinemaTone Gamma curves can be accessed by the touch of a button.
- G-orgeous G-Series Lens
- The HVR-Z5U makes full use of a low dispersion glass 29.5-590mm G-Lens with a 20x optical zoom and 3 built-in ND filters. The lens comes equipped with a manual focus, iris and zoom, making it the first camera in its class to feature a fully professional lens! Bravo. The lens has a digital extender that increases magnification by 1.5x, making the lens achieve up to 30x digital zoom levels.
- ClearVID 3CMOS Technology
- Sony's ClearVID sensors are positioned at a 45° angle. Since each pixel is positioned in this manner, the result is far clearer diagonal lines. Images will appear crisper, without the apparent "jaggies" that often plague video signals. Enhanced Image Processing (EIP) is responsible for processing large amounts of pixel color information, recording 4:2:2 chroma before being thrown to 4:2:0 HDV tape.
- Exmor Inside
- Low-light situations can sometimes be difficult for cameras of this size due to their relatively small sensors. The result can often be additional noise or image degradation, sometimes sending otherwise usable footage to the proverbial "digital cutting room floor". By incorporating Exmor technology, Sony has once again raised the bar for handheld cameras at this price-point, reducing the lux rating from 3 to 1.5! The HVR-Z5U's ultra-sensitive 1/3" CMOS Exmor sensors take advantage of technology originally developed for their flagship XDCAM EX camera, the PMW-EX1, delivering an amazing signal-to-noise ratio.
- 24p Capability
- In 24p mode, images from the CMOS can be 2:3 pulldown-converted and recorded onto tape in the standard 60i HDV format. The tape can then be played back or edited using an ordinary HDV system. True 24p editing can be achieved by uploading 2:3 pulldown-converted images via an i.LINK FireWire interface to a compatible non-linear editing system. The resultant images resemble the visual motion of film! The camera can also shoot in both standard 60i for richer temporal motion, as well as 30p, which is great for lifting stills.
- High Resolution LCD
- When shooting HD footage, standard LCD screens can be very deceiving; what looked perfect amidst a full-day video shoot can sometimes prove very soft or out of focus while in post-production. This is a direct result of a simple fact: most camera-mounted LCDs cannot resolve images in the same way they are being recorded. The HVR-Z5U comes equipped with a 1-MegaPixel LCD screen, making it 4 times as clear as the LCD on the HVR-Z1U, eliminating this oft-pesky phenomenon. Record with confidence knowing that what you see is what you will get.
- Extended Dynamic Range
- The camera's 30% extension in dynamic range translates into more detail in both highlights and shadows. Increased dynamic range can be very useful when color correcting during post production.
- Focus Assist
- Users will be delighted by the HVR-Z5U's focus assist feature; peaking focus assist provides a simple way to ensure images are in perfect tack-sharp clarity. The process highlights high-contrast areas that represent sharp lines making focus operation incredibly quick and easy.
- Advanced Audio Recording
- The built-in microphone features full stereo recording capability capturing crystal clear audio. If more directional audio recording is necessary, the unit comes equipped with an ECM-XM1 monoaural microphone, providing a high level of flexibility while allowing operators to tackle a wide range of projects.
| Signal System |
NTSC 1080/60i, 30p, 24p |
| Image Device |
1/3" ClearVid 3CMOS with ExmorTM Technology 1.2 MegaPixels Each |
| Lens |
20x G-Lens 29.5-590mm (35mm Equivalent), f/1.6-3.4 72mm Filter Thread |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | Not Specified By Manufacturer |
| Horizontal Resolution | 1080 Lines |
| Sensitivity | Not Specified By Manufacturer |
| Minimum Illumination | 1.5 lux |
| Vertical Smear | Not Applicable |
| Built-in Filters | 1/6, 1/32, 1/64 |
| LCD Monitor | 3.2", 921,000 Pixels |
| Viewfinder | 0.45" Color, 1.2 MegaPixels |
| Scan Matching | Not Specified By Manufacturer |
| Memory Card Slot |
MemoryStick Duo for Scene Files Compact Flash for Video Recording (Requires Optional Addon) |
| Shutter Speed Range |
60i/30p: 1/4-1/10000 24p: 1/3-1/10000 |
| Gain Selection | -6, -3, 0, 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21dB |
| VTR | |
|---|---|
| Tape Format | HDV |
| Tape Speed |
DV: 18.8mm/s HDV: 18.8mm/s |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | Not Specified By Manufacturer |
| Maximum Recording Time |
HDV: 63 min (with PHDVM-63DM Cassette) DV: 63 min (with PHDVM-63DM Cassette) Tapeless HDV: 72 min (16GB CompactFlash using HVR-MRC1K Addon Unit) |
| Audio | |
|---|---|
| Audio Dynamic Range | Not Specified By Manufacturer |
| Audio Signal Format |
HDV MPEG1 Audio Layer II |
| Audio Frequency Response | 20Hz to 20kHz |
| Signal to Noise Ratio | Not Specified By Manufacturer |
| General | |
|---|---|
| Input and Output Connectors |
Component Video: 10-Pin Connector A/V Out (x1 Output) Composite Video: 10-Pin Connector A/V Out (x1 Output) Analog Audio L/R Output: 10-Pin Connector A/V Out (x2 Output) Analog Audio L/R Input: XLR 3-Pin Female (x2 Input) FireWire (x1 Input/Output) Headphone: Stereo Mini Jack Digital Video Output: HDMI (x1 Output) Remote: LANC (x1 Input) |
| Power Requirements |
Battery Pack: 7.2VDC AC Adapter: 8.4VDC |
| Power Consumption | 7.1W |
| Operating Temperature | 32-104°F (0-40°C) |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 6.8 x 7.5 x 17.8" (16.9 x 18.8 x 45.1cm) |
| Weight | 5 lbs (2.2kg) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 94 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
100%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Great picture quality (79)
- Zoom range/performance (77)
- Great sound (60)
- Easy to use (52)
- Good in low light (49)
Cons
- Poor in low light (3)
- Poor still image (3)
Best Uses
- HD shooting (67)
- Documentaries (60)
- Weddings (45)
- Movies/short films (44)
- Travel (32)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Pro videographer (46), Semi-pro (33), Enthusiast (8)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (40)
Reviewed by 94 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-20
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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
- Awkward Menu Select Wheel
Best Uses
- Legal Videography
Comments about Sony HVR-Z5U Professional HDV Camcorder:
As a legal videographer this camera meets all the requirements along with an excellent quality video and audio system. Setup and operation was very straight forward. Along with the HVR-MRC1 Memory Recording Unit the simultaneous recording to minidv and cf media is a plus. It is everything I need and more. A minor negative is the menu thumb wheel being a little awkward to use. Over all a very good choice for my needs.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
Comments about Sony HVR-Z5U Professional HDV Camcorder:
It's the perfect prosumer camera for start-up level videographers. If you're someone whose been a long time home-movie maker waning on the cusp of bigger things then the Z5 is perfect for you. But, it's also great for professionals, in fact I use it extensively in shooting outdoors features, such as a fishing show I work on. The directional it comes with isn't perfect, but it still provides adequate quality audio when you're in situations where a proper boom might not be possible, such as in a boat two miles deep in a swamp. The only problem is that the wheel-system it uses to access the menu functions can sometimes be difficult to use, especially when it's cold, but that's a minor nit-pick and the only one I can think of. All in all the Z5 is everything that the budding videographer could hope for and maybe a little bit more.
- 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
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sony HVR-Z5U Professional HDV Camcorder:
I'm a freelance photographer that covers breaking news, weddings, concerts, variety show etc. I love everything about this camera! I wish it had a 1/2 chip but the price, you get amazing pictures and audio!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Great Zoom
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Sony HVR-Z5U Professional HDV Camcorder:
Just started a one-man video production company and this camera does everything I could ask of it. Beautiful picture, easy to use. Love it
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
Cons
- Poor Still Image
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sony HVR-Z5U Professional HDV Camcorder:
Love so Easy to handle
the Quality, bright picture
clear sound
- 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
- Outdoor Production
Comments about Sony HVR-Z5U Professional HDV Camcorder:
I'm a profesional outdoor videographer and this camera can not be beat! It's portable, user friendly, great in low light and quick to set up! I'd definately recommend this camera and buy it again!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Sony HVR-Z5U Professional HDV Camcorder:
Got the camera out of the box and started shooting. The camera is great, no complaints. Cannot go into detail since I just shot 3 tapes.
Only dissappointment is when I went to download the footage from camera to computer, there is no cable included.
I searched everywhere for the cable, called sony, and they said it does not come with one.
I cannot understand why sony would not include an essential cable, worth about $15, with a $4000 camera.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
Comments about Sony HVR-Z5U Professional HDV Camcorder:
I love all the changes that were made to the latest in Sony's HD offering. The Compact flash drive is a great addition.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sony HVR-Z5U Professional HDV Camcorder:
I bought this camera in early Feburary 2012, and it's the new "Z1U". There are some subtle improvements. The new LED screen has a richer resolution. One of the things that threw me a bit was the menu scroll sheel (now located on the side of the camera rather than in the back).
The scroll wheel is harder to operate than the previous one and you'll want to have your eyeglasses on to operate it. It used to be metal colored, now it's black and harder to see.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- BW or color view finder
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- LCD is very clear
- Viewfinder is clear
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
- Small function buttons
Best Uses
- DanceTheater
- HD Shooting
- Historical Sketches
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sony HVR-Z5U Professional HDV Camcorder:
Used in mostly stage productions where lighting can be problematic. Low light ability is good. When compared to the Sony PD170/150 it is not as sensitive, but it satisfies our "stage" needs. In fact the PD170s were a little too sensitive. Great "wide angle" coverage with on board lens. Function buttons are very small and hard to find "on the fly" i.e., "push auto focus button" when in manual focus, white balance button; and the "assign" function buttons. We cut small soft self-adhesive velcro spots to place on these function buttons in order to find them easier.
On board battery cannot be installed when using the AC adapter. This makes the switch over to battery from AC awkward compared to the PD 170/150, VX2100 and even the DSR250s. Only three gain positions can be programmed (your selection) as opposed to dialing a full range on the fly. However, the transition to various gain positions is visually smooth. Manual iris control is on a ring and is easy to find. The Camera menu is similar to that of the PD170.Image quality is good. Four star rating is because of small function buttons that are hard to locate when shooting on the fly, otherwise I would give a 5 star rating.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
- Small clear LCD
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sony HVR-Z5U Professional HDV Camcorder:
It has all what I was looking for and even more. Perfect for event videography.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
- Poor In Low Light
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- Home Movies
- Movies/Short Films
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sony HVR-Z5U Professional HDV Camcorder:
THIS CAMERA TELL YOU HOW TO USE IT BY ITSELF.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- HDMI Output
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
- 120 fps is standard def
- Poor Still Image
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sony HVR-Z5U Professional HDV Camcorder:
I use this camera primarily for industrials, promotional and music videos. It's well built, has all the controls in traditional Sony configuration. But most importantly, this camera comes with an HDMI output pre-HDV compression. This means that if you attach an Atomos HDMI recorder to it you can record 4:2:2 HD. That's right, REAL high definition footage, not watered down, barely-HD HDV.
That's why I bought it 2 years ago. I knew HDV was a transitional format, but I needed a good camera for an upcoming job and didn't want to pay for an EX1. With the HDMI out, this camera has an extended it's usable life.
The only thing I don't like about the Z5U is the small sensor size and the relatively low quality of the 120fps. Of course the fact that it can ACTUALLY shoot 120 fps or 240 fields is fantastic, so maybe I'm just being picky. But I use the feature, and every time I use it and try and match it to the HDV/HD stuff I've shot, it always comes out looking bad. But still pretty cool.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Movies/Short Films
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sony HVR-Z5U Professional HDV Camcorder:
Since this is my second Z5u purchase, I would imagine it speaks for itself. A great camera for the price point. Beautiful full HD pictures, clear and crisp. Good low light capability and offers operational options from full auto to full manual. Three rings for focus, iris and zoom; 2 xlr with fantom power option. Peaking option really helps with the focus while using the LCD. Has the features I look for and at a price point I could afford.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- Indoors/Low Light
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sony HVR-Z5U Professional HDV Camcorder:
I love it when customers think I am using a much more expensive camera! Many of my customers have commented on the amazing clarity of this camera. For HDV users, this is THE camera. The three CMOS sensors deliver a sharp, vivid image with low-noise for their size. SONY's color profiles give you lots of flexibility in getting the look you want. Of course, each profile is completely customizable. These are the same color profiles found on SONY's higher-end cameras. The Z5U has performed very well while shooting outdoors in various weather conditions from -11 degrees to 100 degrees Fahrenheit. This is a rock-solid camera that delivers a great image for an affordable price.
- 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
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sony HVR-Z5U Professional HDV Camcorder:
No complaints, there is a reason it is so highly rated!
- 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 HVR-Z5U Professional HDV Camcorder:
I decided to finally upgrade from my 12 year old Sony DSR PD-150 and PD-170 camcorders for the occassional high definiton assignments. The video quality of the HVR-Z5U was gorgeous when used taping a First Communion ceremony in which the church's ambient light was plentiful, as well as in any outdoor situation. The shocker came when I taped the reception segment of a wedding the following weekend. As soon as the subject was out of range of my on-camera video light during candid zooms of people dancing, the image was dark, grainy and off-color. If you're used to the amazing low-light capability of the PD-150 or PD-170, be prepared for disappointment.
- 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
- Indoors/Low Light
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sony HVR-Z5U Professional HDV Camcorder:
I used to have Canon XH A1s that I paid for throught the nose at B&H 2 years ago. I regret and regret and regret and regeret for buying the canon because that camera produced lot of noise and very poor in low light compared to its price.
Finally, I was able to sell it back to B&H for few hundred bucks to get Z5U. This camera is great in Low light, and the image is great and sound quality is amazing. The best thing, I can shoot in full HD and convert to SD via firewire to edit even with Avid Liquid which has not been updated for years. The LCD is wide and clear. I love the zoom lense and the AF mode. If you wantto add and external microphone which is not even necessary, this camera comes with a powerful sony mic for professional shooting.
- 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
- Broadcast
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
- Talking Head
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sony HVR-Z5U Professional HDV Camcorder:
For alsmost year I was searching for a camera to complete my HD camera series, to make the switch to HD/BLU-RAY. I found that most cameras even those priced over 5 Grand, Had weak sound quality/features, only one can meet my expectations of this area, the Sony HVR-Z5U.
After I bought this camera and I see that this is my best investment because without having good tools you cannot make an excellent video product.
Thank you B&H for collecting the
right feedback for helping me choose the product that would exceed my expectations.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Great Picture Quality
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
Comments about Sony HVR-Z5U Professional HDV Camcorder:
This camcorder is only used by professionls.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Displaying reviews 1-20
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- Brochure (PDF 2.2mb)
Media
Required item: Recording media is not included. Be prepared-always carry extra media.
- Price: $11.95
Batteries & Power Adapters
Always keep a spare battery handy so you won't get caught without power.
- Price: $104.95
-
- Original: $84.95
- Save: $10.00
- Price: $74.95
Lenses & Lens Adapters
Capture your desired angle of view with a quality conversion lens.
- Price: $699.95
-
- Original: $149.00
- Save: $14.90
- Price: $134.10
External Microphones
Focus your sound with a high-quality microphone. Audio quality can make or break your video.
- Price: $176.50
Create a more snug fit and vibration isolation for a shotgun mic when it is mounted in the camcorder's mic clip. (B&H # SAROCS)
Bags & Cases
Carry, organize and protect your investment with quick access to your gear.
-
- Original: $179.95
- Save: $17.99
- Price: $161.96
Tripod & Stationary Supports
Stabilize the your footage and eliminate handheld fatigue with the support you need.
-
- Original: $149.95
- Save: $14.99
- Price: $134.96
What's in the Box
- AC-VQ1050 AC Adapter/Charger
- ECM-XM1 Mono Microphone
- NP-F770 "InfoLithium" Battery
- A/V Multi-Connecting Cable
- Component A/V Cable
- Lens Hood with Cover
- Shoe Adapter
- Large Sized Eye-Cup
- RMT-831 Wireless Remote Commander
- Lithium Battery
- Operating Instructions (CD-ROM)
- Operating Instructions (Printed Copy)
- 1-Year Warranty
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