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Sony PMW-EX3 XDCAM EX HD Camcorder (without SxS Card)

  • Price: $8,320.00
  • Mail In Rebate -$500.00 (see details)
    offer ends SEP 30 '12
  • Price after Mail in Rebate: $7,820.00
  • B&H # SOPMWEX3Q
  • Mfr# PMW-EX3/2

Product Highlights

  • Interchangeable 1/2" Lens System
  • 3x 1/2" Exmor CMOS Sensors
  • 1080p
  • 24p
  • HD-SDI Interface
  • 8-Pin Remote Connection
  • 2/3" Lens Capability

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Remember the Essentials

Recording media is not included, be prepared - always carry extra media.

The Sony PMW-EX3 is a flash-memory based high definition camcorder capable of a variety of frame rates and resolutions using Sony's new XDCAM-EX intraframe codec. A "big-brother" to the PMW-EX1, the PMW-EX3 ups the ante by providing an interchangeable lens mount. The mount allows users to put a variety of professional lenses on the camera, including 1/2" and 2/3" bayonet mounts (with optional adapter).

Enhancing both usability and workflow efficiency, the PMW-EX3 has an extensive set of features that push the boundaries of traditional handheld cameras, including a continuous record time of up to 140 minutes! Whether shooting in 720p, 1080i, or 1080p modes, the PMW-EX3 has it all covered. Its bevy of output settings lets users take advantage of fast and slow motion, as well as popular frame rates such as the "film-like" 24p mode.

XDCAM EX
XDCAM EX is a variant of Sony's popular XDCAM HD codec, which has become a benchmark for affordable non-linear professional acquisition. Through the use of flash-based memory, the PMW-EX3 can take advantage of variable bit rate (VBR) recording. VBR technology intelligently employs less or more image compression to different portions of the footage dependant on which areas need additional bandwidth. The end result is higher quality video with a reduced amount of compression artifacts when compared to more antiquated constant bit rate (CBR) methods.
Shoulder Mounted
Like its more expensive ENG counterparts, the PMW-EX3 is designed to be used on the shoulder, allowing for more comfortable operation. The result is glass-smooth footage that can be recorded for an extended period of time before the onset of arm fatigue.
Interchangeable Lens Mount
The PMW-EX3 features a 1/2" interchangeable mount capable of using both Canon and Fujinon 1/2" and 2/3" professional video lenses.
Exmor 1/2" CMOS Sensors
By using Exmor 1/2" CMOS sensors,Sony has once again raised the bar for handheld cameras, The result can often be additional noise or image degradation, sometimes sending otherwise usable footage to the proverbial "digital cutting room floor". The PMW-EX3's ultra-sensitive 1/2" CMOS Exmor sensors fully take advantage of the increased surface area, delivering a signal-to-noise ratio of 54 dB! Wow.
SxS Solid State Recording Technology
SxS technology is built for today's most demanding applications and beyond. Being based on the Expresscard/34 interface makes ultra-high transfer rates possible, up to 800 Mb/s. These high transfer speeds can be very important when trying to quickly download multiple gigabytes worth of footage.
Under and Over-Cranking Made Easy
Variable frame rates have been used in filmmaking since its inception. What is often referred to as "over-cranking" for slow motion and "under-cranking" for fast motion, is achieved by running film quickly or slowly through a film gate. This method makes for a simple yet effective technique, which can be used in a myriad of creative cinematic ways. The PMW-EX3 has the ability to simulate this same effect while keeping your hands free from all those stinky film chemicals. Shoot in a number of frame rates, select any clip, and watch your footage playback automatically in all its fast or slow motion glory!
High Definition 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 PMW-EX3 comes equipped with 1-MegaPixel LCD screen, eliminating this oft-pesky phenomenon. Record with confidence, knowing that what you see is what you will get.
Extended Record Time
Due to the space-saving nature of XDCAM EX, the 8 and 16GB memory cards are capable of recording for long periods of time. Documentary work will never be a problem when shooting on the PMW-EX3.
8-Pin Remote Access
The PMW-EX3 can be connected to the RM-B150 or RM-B750 remote control units via its 8-Pin connection. This feature makes the camera ideal for a variety of applications, including studio work.

Go To

Signal System XDCAM EX
Image Device 1/2" 3CMOS
Lens Removable Fujinon 14x Optical Zoom with Image Stabilization
5.8-81.2mm, f/1.9
Lens Mount 1/2" Bayonet (with 2/3" adapter)
Signal-to-Noise Ratio 54 dB
Horizontal Resolution 1080 Lines
Sensitivity 2000 lux, 89.9% Reflectance, f/10 (Typical, 1920 x 1080 59.94i)
Minimum Illumination 0.14 lux (Typical)
1920 x 1080/59.94i mode, f/1.9, +18 dB gain, with 64-Frame Accumulation
Vertical Smear Not Specified by Manufacturer
Built-in Filters OFF: Clear, 1: 1/8 ND, 2: 1/64 ND
LCD Monitor 3.5", 16:9 Aspect Ratio, 921,000 Effective Pixels
Viewfinder LCD Monitor
Scan Matching Yes
Memory Card Slot ExpressCard/34
Shutter Speed Range 1/33-1/2000 s
180°, 90°, 45°, 22.5°, 11.25°
Gain Selection -3, 0, 3, 6, 9, 12, 18 dB
VTR
Tape Format Not Applicable
Tape Speed Not Applicable
Signal-to-Noise Ratio Not Applicable
Maximum Recording Time 16GB
HQ: 50 min
SP: 70 min

8GB
HQ: 25 min
SP: 35 min
Audio
Audio Dynamic Range 90 dB
Audio Signal Format Linear PCM (2ch, 16-bit, 48 kHz)
Audio Frequency Response 20 Hz to 20 kHz, +3 dB/-3 dB
Signal to Noise Ratio Not Specified by Manufacturer
General
Input and Output Connectors Component: MiniD (x1 Output)
Composite: BNC (x1 Output)
S-Video: 4-Pin Mini DIN (x1 Output)
Timecode: BNC (x1 Input, x1 Output)
Genlock: BNC (x1 Input)
HD/SD-SDI: BNC (x1 Output)
Audio: XLR 3-Pin Female (x2 Input)
i.LINK: FireWire 4-Pin (x1 Input/Output)
USB: Mini-B
Headphone: Stereo Mini Jack (x1 Ouptut) Remote: 8-Pin
Power Requirements 12 VDC
Power Consumption 13.5W
Operating Temperature 32-104°F (0-40°C)
Dimensions (WxHxD) 9.9 x 8.3 x 15.8" (25 x 21 x 40 cm)
Weight Without Lens
4.1 lb (1.9 kg)

With Lens
7.6 lb (3.6 kg)

REVIEW SNAPSHOT®

by PowerReviews
SonyPMW-EX3 XDCAM EX HD Camcorder (without SxS Card)
 
4.6

(based on 12 reviews)

Ratings Distribution

  • 5 Stars

     

    (8)

  • 4 Stars

     

    (3)

  • 3 Stars

     

    (1)

  • 2 Stars

     

    (0)

  • 1 Stars

     

    (0)

100%

of respondents would recommend this to a friend.

Pros

  • Great picture quality (10)
  • Easy to use (7)
  • Good in low light (6)
  • Large clear LCD (4)
  • Great sound (3)

Cons

  • Limited zoom (3)

Best Uses

  • HD shooting (8)
  • Weddings (7)
  • Documentaries (6)
  • Movies/short films (6)
  • Travel (4)
    • Reviewer Profile:
    • Pro videographer (10)
    • Was this a gift?:
    • No (11)

Most Liked Positive Review

 

I would buy it again,but need to improve

Very nice pictures and sensitivity, a real bargain for a 1/2 sensor camera. But many things need to improve. First, the zoom control is absolutely not smooth at lower speed. The tripod...Read complete review

Very nice pictures and sensitivity, a real bargain for a 1/2 sensor camera. But many things need to improve. First, the zoom control is absolutely not smooth at lower speed. The tripod plate is quite week. The LCD colors are greenish and the resolution could be increased (920.000 dots nowadays is not that much, canon provides 4" LCD with 1.200.000 dots and view finders with 1.500.000 dots!). On the lens grip, i miss the "auto iris" button, like in the EX1R. A 12 pin lens connector should be available directly on the camera body, like in the HVR-Z7. Possibility to record on both cards at the same time (if one fails, you have the other one saving you!)

VS

Most Liked Negative Review

 

After waiting 3 months for my PMW-EX3

I can say it is a very intuitive camera and very easy to operate and even my videos appear to be done by a professional. Although I am relatively new in the field, with ...Read complete review

I can say it is a very intuitive camera and very easy to operate and even my videos appear to be done by a professional. Although I am relatively new in the field, with this equipment and a few effects, my clips are great!
Now Sony needs to work on a more timely equipment production and customer relations. I got a lot of excuses why my camera had not shipped when promised...

Reviewed by 12 customers

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Displaying reviews 1-12

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(2 of 2 customers found this review helpful)

 
5.0

I love this Camcorder.

By Kiet

from North Little Rock ,AR

About Me Pro Videographer

Verified Buyer

Pros

  • Easy to Use
  • Good Image Stabilization
  • Good in Low Light
  • Great Picture Quality
  • Great Sound

Cons

    Best Uses

    • HD Shooting
    • Movies/Short Films
    • Weddings/Events

    Comments about Sony PMW-EX3 XDCAM EX HD Camcorder (without SxS Card):

    This is a powerful camcorder with a light weight.

    • Was this a gift?:
    • No

    Share this review

    (2 of 2 customers found this review helpful)

     
    5.0

    Great Cam. Can't Compare With Other Cam

    By Philips Patel

    from District-Surat, State-Gujarat, INDIA.

    About Me Pro Videographer

    Verified Reviewer

    Pros

    • Great Zoom

    Cons

      Best Uses

      • Documentaries
      • HD Shooting
      • Indoors/Low Light
      • Movies/Short Films
      • Travel

      Comments about Sony PMW-EX3 XDCAM EX HD Camcorder (without SxS Card):

      i use Sony EX Series Camcorders from 5years and still these are continued models in Sony. That's great because of Only Sony XDCAM-EX range has 1/2" CMOS Sensors. it is only Great/Amazing features in this range of camcorders. You can't found 1/2" Sensors in this range of camcorders of other companies. if you find all camcorders of other companies there is only 1/3" Sonsors in this range of Camcorder. All Pro DOPs know that what Sensors can do in image processing and quality. No Comments about other specification because i transfered about 55 Ad Films and Short Films in 35mm Reverse Tele. You Can't imagine about transfered Quality. its Amazing...

      Share this review

      (2 of 2 customers found this review helpful)

       
      3.0

      After waiting 3 months for my PMW-EX3

      By Ken

      from Miami, FL

      About Me Pro Videographer

      Verified Buyer

      Pros

      • Easy to Use
      • Great Picture Quality
      • light weight

      Cons

      • poor balance
      • Poor In Low Light
      • Poor Sound

      Best Uses

      • CCTV Commercials
      • Movies/Short Films
      • Weddings/Events

      Comments about Sony PMW-EX3 XDCAM EX HD Camcorder (without SxS Card):

      I can say it is a very intuitive camera and very easy to operate and even my videos appear to be done by a professional. Although I am relatively new in the field, with this equipment and a few effects, my clips are great!
      Now Sony needs to work on a more timely equipment production and customer relations. I got a lot of excuses why my camera had not shipped when promised...

      • Was this a gift?:
      • No

      Share this review

      (2 of 2 customers found this review helpful)

       
      5.0

      Great ENG EFP camera!

      By Bonanza pilot

      from Frederick MD

      About Me Pro Videographer

      Verified Buyer

      Pros

      • Easy to Use
      • Good Image Stabilization
      • Great Picture Quality
      • Large Clear LCD

      Cons

      • Limited Zoom

      Best Uses

      • Documentaries
      • HD Shooting
      • Travel
      • Weddings/Events

      Comments about Sony PMW-EX3 XDCAM EX HD Camcorder (without SxS Card):

      Use the camera to shoot news and short features. Change in form from EX1 makes it easier to handhold. Manual, mechincal control rings on lens (iris, focus, zoom) are great for professional shooters. Power zoom leaves something to be desired. Very touchy, difficult to get a nice slow push or pull. Some shooters I know have replaced the lens with something from
      Canon or Fujinon, although it is difficult to explain to a CFO why you want to put a lens on the camera that costs twice as much as the camera. But the image quality supports the better lenses. All in all, a great camera for the price.

      • Was this a gift?:
      • No

      Share this review

      (2 of 2 customers found this review helpful)

       
      5.0

      Excelelnt performance/solid construction

      By Jonah

      from Virginia Beach, VA

      About Me Pro Videographer

      Verified Buyer

      Pros

      • Easy to Use
      • Good in Low Light
      • Great Picture Quality
      • Great Sound
      • Large Clear LCD

      Cons

      • Not the smoothest zoom

      Best Uses

      • Documentaries
      • HD Shooting

      Comments about Sony PMW-EX3 XDCAM EX HD Camcorder (without SxS Card):

      The camera is used for national television prcduction and is a workhorse. Large LCD and excellent features. Great for ENG or Documentaries.

      • Was this a gift?:
      • No

      Share this review

      (3 of 3 customers found this review helpful)

       
      4.0

      Great camera for the price

      By Clemens

      from Bend, OR

      About Me Pro Videographer

      Verified Buyer

      Pros

      • Easy to Use
      • Great Picture Quality

      Cons

        Best Uses

        • Documentaries
        • Movies/Short Films
        • Weddings/Events

        Comments about Sony PMW-EX3 XDCAM EX HD Camcorder (without SxS Card):

        Professional video at a great price.

        • Was this a gift?:
        • No

        Share this review

        (10 of 10 customers found this review helpful)

         
        4.0

        I would buy it again,but need to improve

        By maxbet

        from Venice, IT

        About Me Pro Videographer

        Pros

        • Easy to Use
        • Good in Low Light
        • Great Picture Quality
        • Half-inch sensors

        Cons

        • Miss

        Best Uses

        • Documentaries
        • HD Shooting
        • Weddings/Events

        Comments about Sony PMW-EX3 XDCAM EX HD Camcorder (without SxS Card):

        Very nice pictures and sensitivity, a real bargain for a 1/2 sensor camera. But many things need to improve. First, the zoom control is absolutely not smooth at lower speed. The tripod plate is quite week. The LCD colors are greenish and the resolution could be increased (920.000 dots nowadays is not that much, canon provides 4" LCD with 1.200.000 dots and view finders with 1.500.000 dots!). On the lens grip, i miss the "auto iris" button, like in the EX1R. A 12 pin lens connector should be available directly on the camera body, like in the HVR-Z7. Possibility to record on both cards at the same time (if one fails, you have the other one saving you!)

        • Was this a gift?:
        • No

        Share this review

        (10 of 11 customers found this review helpful)

         
        5.0

        Wow

        By ATX Shooter

        from Austin, Texas

        About Me Pro Videographer

        Pros

          Cons

          • Mega Poor Zoom Control

          Best Uses

            Comments about Sony PMW-EX3 XDCAM EX HD Camcorder (without SxS Card):

            Had this camera for 7 months and am still in the "GeeWhiz" mode with this camera. Awesome images. It was recommended to me by 3 of Austin's premiere shooters and I finally accepted their advice and bought it. Buy the Vortex "how-to" DVD and you'l be up and running fast. The only downside is the lousy zoom control, but with HD, I can add the little "push-ins" in post. There are a number of good shoulder mount rigs out there now (DM-Accessories sells a great one) which make up for the ergonomic weirdness, although handholding out of the box ain't that bad. If you haven't bought a camera yet, this is it baby!

            • Was this a gift?:
            • No

            Share this review

            (8 of 8 customers found this review helpful)

             
            5.0

            Amazing!!

            By Kellenito

            from Kalamazoo

            About Me Semi-pro Videographer

            Verified Buyer

            Pros

            • Good in Low Light
            • Great Picture Quality
            • Great Zoom
            • Large Clear LCD

            Cons

            • Slow setup time

            Best Uses

            • HD Shooting
            • Indoors/Low Light
            • Movies/Short Films
            • Travel
            • Weddings/Events

            Comments about Sony PMW-EX3 XDCAM EX HD Camcorder (without SxS Card):

            recently upgraded cameras from a Panasonic AG-HVX200 to this beauty and couldn't be happier. High capacity SxS cards record a beautiful 1080 picture and the browser and transfer software for the XDCAM footage is quick and simple to navigate, getting your footage into an NLE fast!!

            • Was this a gift?:
            • No

            Share this review

            (9 of 11 customers found this review helpful)

             
            5.0

            Very complete and professional equipment

            By J2Films

            from Caracas, Vzla

            About Me Pro Videographer

            Verified Buyer

            Pros

            • Great Picture Quality

            Cons

              Best Uses

              • Travel

              Comments about Sony PMW-EX3 XDCAM EX HD Camcorder (without SxS Card):

              Perfect for productions outdoors

              • Was this a gift?:
              • No

              Share this review

              (10 of 10 customers found this review helpful)

               
              5.0

              Great Camera

              By Chris

              from Grand Forks, ND

              About Me Semi-pro Videographer

              Verified Reviewer

              Pros

              • Easy to Use
              • Good in Low Light
              • Great Picture Quality
              • Large Clear LCD

              Cons

              • Limited Zoom

              Best Uses

              • HD Shooting
              • Indoors/Low Light
              • Movies/Short Films
              • Weddings/Events

              Comments about Sony PMW-EX3 XDCAM EX HD Camcorder (without SxS Card):

              I use this camera at the church i attend for video recording and streaming of the services. The picture is great and the operation is very intuitive. Works well with the stage effect lighting and low light scenarios.

              • Was this a gift?:
              • No

              Share this review

              (8 of 8 customers found this review helpful)

               
              4.0

              Stepping into the top gear

              By tim

              from ny 10976

              About Me Pro Videographer

              Verified Buyer

              Pros

              • Good in Low Light
              • Great Picture Quality
              • Great Sound

              Cons

              • Limited Zoom

              Best Uses

              • Documentaries
              • HD Shooting

              Comments about Sony PMW-EX3 XDCAM EX HD Camcorder (without SxS Card):

              Great in low light and no loss of time for editing

              • Was this a gift?:
              • No

              Share this review

              Displaying reviews 1-12

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              Media

              Required item: Recording media is not included. Be prepared-always carry extra media.

              Sony -  32GB SxS Memory Card PRO
              • Price: $712.71
               

              Batteries & Power Adapters

              Always keep a spare battery handy so you won't get caught without power.

              Sony -  BP-U60 Lithium-Ion Battery
              • Price: $269.95
               

              Lenses & Lens Adapters

              Capture your desired angle of view with a quality conversion lens.

              Fujinon -  XS8X4AS-XB8 8x for Sony PMW-EX3
              • Price: $3,999.95
               

              External Microphones

              Focus your sound with a high-quality microphone. Audio quality can make or break your video.

              Audio-Technica -  AT875 Short Condenser Shotgun Microphone
              • 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.

              Pearstone -  Pro Camcorder Case with Wheels
                • 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.

              Libec -  LS-38M(2A)N Professional 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System
              • Price: $524.95
               
              View all Accessories

              What's in the Box

              Sony PMW-EX3 XDCAM EX HD Camcorder (without SxS Card)
              • 14x Zoom Lens
              • Lens Hood
              • LO-3830 1/2" Lens Adapter
              • IR Remote Control
              • USB Cable
              • Component Video Cable
              • Shoulder Strap
              • Operation Manual
              • XDCAM EX Clip Browsing Software
              • SxS Driver Software
              • BP-U30 Battery
              • BC-U1 Battery Charger
              • 1-Year Limited Warranty
               
               
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