Sony's new PMW-EX1 XDCAM is a powerful and very intelligent camcorder.
The EX1 features a 14 X Fujinon HD lens, three 1/2-inch CMOS sensors and a high-res 3.
5' LCD with reflective panels for clear viewing in bright sunlight.
1/2-inch CCD's makes for higher resolution and a greater depth of field than the 1/3' CCD's commonly used in prosumer camcorders.
Through use of Sony's MPEG-2 Long GOP CODEC and when recording onto their newly developed "swappable" SxS Memory Card system, this camcorder can record up to 140 min's of HD footage in one load when using two 16 GB cards! Files can also be exported in the IT-friendly MP4 format compatible with many electronic portable devices such as Ipod's or for online file-sharing.
The user have a choice of recording to 2 bit rates - either 35 Mb/s for higher quality 1280 x 720 HD or the space saving 25 Mb/s mode (1440 x 1080) a lower resolution compatible to the HDV format.
For the more advanced and creative user the EX1 features; selectable gamma curves, variable frame rates for 'Slow & Quick Motion' (commonly known as "overcranking" and "under-cranking"), interval "time-lapse" recording and a Picture Profile feature letting its user pre-set 6 modes for different looks.
Another great feature are the Depth-of-field/Histogram Indicators for easy evaluation and control of focus and exposure! The included servo lens also supports auto-focus, and by sliding the ring backwards it snaps into a full manual mode with "hard stops" and precise focus positions marked in both meters and feet.
The bigger version Sony PMWEX3 is basically the same camcorder but adds on an interchangeable lens system, shoulder-mount, Gen-lock and timecode in/out jacks and an 8-pin interface for full studio remote control.
Conclusion The Sony PMW-EX1 and the EX3 are very innovative camcorders and a step above most prosumer camcorders.
They create astoundingly clean and beautiful HD images with rich colors and a great depth of field.
With a great variety of features for the creative user these camcorders offers a great solution for high-end videography, independent film makers and professional broadcasters who want exceptional HD image quality and a state-of-the-art workflow in a very compact and affordable camcorder! To read more about the Sony PMW-EX1 and the EX3, and find out about the best HD Camcorders currently on the market, read my reviews on: Best HD Camcorders