By features editor Mat Gallagher and technical editor Matt Allard:
With 4K TV sets now reaching mainstream audiences the 4K camcorder was only a matter of time. The AX1 is part of Sony’s Handycam line-up, which officially puts it in the consumer range. However, with some impressive specifications and a sturdy-looking build (at 2.7kg this is no pocket cam), this camera may have uses for the professional shooter.
The AX1 features a 1/2.3 Exmor R sensor CMOS sensor, just slightly larger than super 8mm, that delivers a 3840×2160 pixel image at 50p. Clips are saved in an MP4 format with either XAVC S or AVCHD codecs. The XAVC S codec can only be used when writing to a XQD card but this does, Sony claim, give around two hours recording on a 64GB card. The camera also accepts SD and Memory stick Pro Duo formats though.
The camera includes three ND filters (1/4, 1/16, 1/64), two external XLR inputs and an internal stereo mic. The lens is a non-removable Sony G f/1.6-3.4 lens with a 20x (31.5-630mm equivalent in 35mm terms) zoom and optical stabilisation.
Here are some first thoughts on the camera from technical editor, Matt Allard:
‘It is an interesting camera though I’m not quite sure who it is aimed at. Maybe wedding shooters, documentary shooters who are shooting nature or those that shoot a lot of hand held work that needs stabilisation. The codec is an interesting one. Basically it’s a consumer version of XAVC. The use of XQD cards is a good insight into what may be announced in the new versions of the FS700 that are coming. We may well see a lot more Sony Cameras using this type of card, at least at the lower end.
‘The fixed lens really isn’t wide enough at a 35mm equivalent of just 31mm and really requires a wide angle adaptor. Apart from that, it does have a small sensor but this sort of camera isn’t aimed at people wanting shallow DOF.’
The AX1 is expected to cost $4,499 or £3,799, a release date is still to be confirmed. For more info visit: www.sony.com
