I pre-ordered mine within 12 hours of seeing the announcement. I really miss the days of using ENG type cameras.-- being able to pull it out the bag and start shooting, and no need to carry a bunch of lenses to swap mid-shoot is such a peace of mind. I love my FX6 and will continue to use it for the foreseeable future. But for corporate events, which is mainly what I do, the Z200 is the camera I have been waiting for. And it supports S-Cinetone so I can use it alongside my FX6 and the shots should match up quite well.
@@mediakobo See this is the exact situation that I know a lot of people are in. Honestly I’m surprised it’s taken Sony this long for a release. I’d love to hear more about it when you get it!
@@davidmorefield I have a Panasonic HC-X2 for certain uses, it has HDR / HLG / Vlog, 4k 60, built in ND (but does not have VND like Sony), Dual XLR, amazing battery life, SDI. AF is pretty trash though.
@@travisminneapolisdo you think the z200 is bettet/has better features than the HCX2? I want to buy a new Camera but can‘t decide between the z200 and the hc x2
Pretty sweet camera! This seems perfect for events where you just sit in the back of the room and film a speaker. And you make a good point, this is starting to collide two worlds with this camera here! Cool stuff! I enjoy these discussions!
The Z200 has a ton of really cool features. But, as an FX6 owner, if there is ONE thing that's going to drive you crazy about it, it's the low light capability. The FX6 has you spoiled! You can shoot in terrible light conditions and come out looking like a champion because that FX6 is made to do that. The Z200 will be crushed under those same conditions. That 1inch-type sensor just can't compete with the FX6. It's not even close...it's miles behind the FX6. You are used to walking into and event and smashing that second 12,800 base ISO and then laughing as you happily go on shooting with ease. The Z200 will force you to stress MUCH more about the lighting in the events you shoot at. That 12,800 base ISO "weapon" wont be in your hands anymore....and you will miss it. You will lose about 1.5 to 2 stops of dynamic range too.
ISO 12800 - few people need shooting in such conditions. Yes, in very low light the FX6 will be better, but in normal or not very low light the z200 will simply destroy the FX6 in many scenes. The FX6 is an unsuitable camera for shooting complex scenes.
@@csamd9049 - Actually, 12,800 is VERY helpful in events! What happens when you are forced to be in the back of a room with a live audience??. You need to shoot LONG...as in 400 or 600mm? What do you know about long full frame glass? Super slow right? This is where the FX6 second base (high 0db) saves your tail. This very high second base ISO is a LIFE SAVER when shooting on slow glass. (especially in telephoto)
Also an FX6 owner, I don't think I could ever sacrifice the lowlight capabilities or even the full frame sensor. Camera looks awesome for a few niche settings though.
I love that the Sony Z200 offers such a wide focal range-it really lets me stay in the moment. This feature also minimizes the risk of exposing the sensor to dust or harsh weather, which is a huge relief in unpredictable environments. The focus tracking is incredible in most situations, even when there are foreground or background obstructions. In documentary work, where you can’t ethically stage or redo moments, this is a game-changer. It allows you to capture a tight shot of someone’s hands or eyes and then immediately switch to a wide shot of the room, all without missing a beat or asking, “Can you do that again?” Too often, modern documentaries look polished but lack genuine moments and focal variety-especially when shooting with a single camera in real-time. I’m excited to see Sony leaning into innovations like the Z200, but I agree-a lower base ISO and a larger sensor would take this camera to the next level.
That dream S35 system camera probably wont exist any time soon. The industries that are the main users of these compact broadcast cams dont want larger sensors because the people they get to use the cameras are typically not high skilled camera operators or they are extreme fast paced situations where deep depth of field can save a shot. The developments I see that are most popular with these (and will continue to develop) are: inbuilt live streaming/FTP, autofocus, lens+body+digital stabilization and low light capabilities and long working life. Compact broadcast cams also dont get updated much because even old old models already service the requirements of the industry that uses them most. You can use an ancient P2 compact and even though its 720p with a black and white viewfinder, it still has ND, SDI, 2 XLR long battery life and is enough for 90% of broadcast applications.
@@jamesandcamera Yes, totally agree. Those features are what I was touching on towards the end. They are very functional but not sexy. However, I would even be happy with a m43 sensor in one of these camcorders. Hopefully there will be some innovation in the near future but yeah… s35 is a stretch.
It's just worth getting at $4k if you're doing doc and corporate, which I do so I am definitely matching it with my FX6 and FX3. Pick up and go and start shooting, with all coverage areas infinity and beyond!!!
So i have had owed the nx800 since 2 days after it has been released and I have been truly impressed with this camera / camcorder. I am so many full frame mirrorless cameras like the a7iv, a7rv, and i recently picked up the fx30 for up close racing action and planon using it for interviews. But the nx800 is the first camera i grab to do video. For live events and anything during the day its phenomenal. But in my opinion when the lighting is dim, noise is very noticeable. But i never expected it to be meantcfor low light. But the auto focus is fast and accurate like my a7rv. I've been only shooting straight out of the camera no s-log or hlg for Cinetone. I wasn't really happy with the s-log out of it compared to my fx30. So I got to do some more testing with that. But the variable ND filter is so nice since I do a lot of live racing I put it on auto and ND and leave everything else in manual and it makes exposing everything super easy. This wont replace your fx6, nor a fx30. But will be a valuable tool for those looking for this a good camcorder with the need for a wide range of focal lengths to use in an all in one camera 12:35
Everyone talks about how nice is to have S35 on this camera. Is like wanting a FF lens with 6x Zoom and fixed F2.8 that is light and affordable. That's a dream, not reality, because it involves physics in this case optic science. We should be thrill to have 1'' sensor instead of 1/2 or 1/3 the size standard of camcorders years ago or even the 2/3 or the typical ENG. That's a big improvement and having that with only a maximum of F4.5 not bad at all. I would like to see is the results of the clear zoom that rockets the range to 40X in FHD. Also one thing to have in mind in here is that this video beast costs around 3K and a Sony lens like the 18-110mm APS-C F4 is almost the same price. I'm considering here the NX800 and not the Z200 because I don't need to pay 600 Euros for SDI out when I can use an adaptor from 50 Euros.
For me, the fixed zoom lens needs to be brighter, wider, and less telephoto. Otherwise for less price, FX30 with 18-105 plus a few primes is a lot more versatile for me.
I think the Z00 is more for ENG and cheap multi-camera works, for other kind of videos (such as music videos and commercials) you need the magic of a bigger sensor such as Super35 or full frame. Of course you can use the FX6 for news with the 28-135 F4 which has zoom, you have the nice look of cinema but a lot of compromises about focal lenght... you cannot compare 135mm to a 480mm (max tele of the Z200) and who is into broacast knows how often you need to shoot a speaking/acting subject ona stage (with a tripod), running for news you cannot stay chagining lenses and you often need zoom.
Based upon your FX6 build and use case, I can see the appeal of the Z200 for you. I have a long history with camcorders and before the DSLR Revolution, you only had two choices, big broadcast cameras or the smaller, lighter, fairly capable camcorders. I personally owned/own: Panasonic DVX100 HVX200 HPX170 HPX300 (sort of camcorder but with a removable 1/3" lens) Sony EX1 EX3 Canon XF400 XA401 XF605 (we currently have one for our live streaming company) What the others are saying is true. If you light most or all of your setups, the camcorders are pretty handy, good for outdoor or well lit event work as well. But we all end up in badly lit situations where we may or may not have the ability to light the scene, In those situations, ISO 1600 base with a 1" sensor is going to cramp your style pretty badly compared to an FX6. Also, I don't foresee them making S35 camcorders, you are correct, it would make the lens larger, heavier, more complex and you would lose a lot of that insane focal range, you can't really cheat the laws of physics and it would massively increase the cost of the camcorder as well. It would also make the camcorder larger, bulkier, which is kind of defeating the thing that is cool about camcorders, that they pack a lot of optical punch in a relatively small and inexpensive package.
@@danbrockettDOP the dvx100 was awesome. Loved that it had 24p. I would be really interested to see where a mft sensor would land the weight and size as far as optics go. Would still have some shallow dof too. That could be a great middle ground. However, I don’t see it happening as it wouldn’t be marketable to the masses who gravitate towards ff.
@@davidmorefield I remember doing my accounting and realizing that I bought my DVX100A for $5,000. Over three years of shooting, I billed that little camera out for a total of $68,000 in day rate fees, I traveled all over the world with that little camera, it was a joy to use. One of the most profitable cameras I ever owned. Those were the days! For some reason, I think if the big 3 were going to put an M43 sensor in a camcorder, they already would have done it. The M43 sensor size has been around a long time. I think the buyers of these sorts of camcorders are very price sensitive and bigger sensor would increase cost a decrease focal range. Most of these are sold to smaller market news, corporate in-house, house or worship and governemtn clients where they often buy a pile of them too. That's the cool thing about these, add media and you are ready to shoot, $3,999 versus all of us with our FX6s typically spent as much as the camera body in addition for lenses, batteries, media, arms, plates, cages, monitors, handles, etc. CInema cameras need a ton of accessories, camcorders, basically none.
I've been using the Panasonic HC-X1500/2000 for several years and am looking seriously at the NX800. When I bought the Panasonic I did so because Sony just had nothing that would do 50/60FPS at UHD resolutions, they were all capped at 30FPS. Now they've finally caught up and the bigger sensor (the Panny is a 1/2.3) will be nice. However, there is a *huge* price gap between the X1500 and the NX800.
@@davidmorefield Run and gun -- mainly RC model aircraft and the people that fly them. The zoom capabilities of a good camcorder (24x (600mm equiv) on the Panasonic) is really important when filming small models at distance and the ability to go from 600 to 24 and back to 600 without changing glass is essential when you want to capture the models *and* the faces of their pilots when things such as crashes happen. The 4-hours of operation on a single battery also sold me on the Panny, as did the very light weight. Holding a camcorder (because it's not on your shoulder) for several hours makes even the lightest camera feel heavy. It's horses for courses. The HC-X1500 falls down a little on image quality (due to the smaller sensor) so I'd love to go up to a 1-inch sensor, especially if it doesn't cost me anything in the way of zoom range. I made this vid about what I do and what I use: ua-cam.com/video/Vdd33EQkG4s/v-deo.html
I too love this camera! My current ENG / Camcorder is a Canon XF-705 which is pretty great but definitely heavy and doesn't easily match my FX6 / FX3 / FX30. Interesting to hear your arguments for a Super 35 sensor and how that may increase "aggregarte convergence" between form factors. My favorite bit was the XLR discussion and puzzling head scratcher about the new Canon C400 not having them. Great video as always! Thank you
@@davidmorefield very interesting... thanks! You also made me wonder if this type of Sony offering can offset tendency to make mirrorless form factor the B or C camera. At video podcast shoot this week I needed a full frame wide angle from the FX3 at 16mm but that's the exception more often than the rule. Shooting at F2.8 with this camera when there's enough room to move the camera and achieve the FF equivalent of something like 150mm... that would be pretty great for most interviews.
@@davidmorefieldIf Panasonic updated the DVX line to a DVX300 with the gh7 sensor it would be great. The dvx200 doesn't have great autofocus. I've compared the dvx200 next to one of their contemporary 1" camcorders (cx350) and the size/weight difference was significant. Still though, for the lens range and all that a camcorder brings to a package it's great. I doubt Sony would do a super 35 fixed lens camcorder. You certainly wouldn't get the long range zoom in that kind of package.
I started out in skateboarding as well. We always shot with the Sony VX1000 and a .37x century optics thread on fisheye lens aptly nick named the "Death Lens"
Curiously the old Sony Ex1r was able to have hard stop focus.. you just need to put the focus ring in different position, they could adopt that for this camera.. 😅... Btw the Z200 is very similar to an older brother EX1r... with 4k and some improvements.. 🙃
I would use this camera in combination with a minimalist A7s3 or Fx3 rig and a prime lens for low light shot. I am considering to buy it, especially for zoom range.
I’m trying to figure out why Sony would move the iris ring from the lens to the camera body. Just doesn’t seem like a natural progression from their previous “camcorders” I.e. nx5 150 190
For me, the fixed zoom lens needs to be brighter, wider, and less telephoto. I also hope that they make a smaller version of it under 2lbs. If not, they need to update RX10, RX100, ZV1 asap.
Sony HDR-FX1, a camera way ahead of its time had: optical steady shoot, manual zoom, rocker zoom, manual adjustments, internal ND, amazing cam. So much fun to operate. Too bad, Sony Television-Video and the Mirrorless Cam (many years later) Departments never appear to have really shared tech. So now the Z200 looks exciting, but still appears to be missing some of the features of the Sony HDR-FX1 has finally showed up on the block. Really liked your review David. Let us know how the cam turns out for you. 😎😎
@@jonwaldman94 It’s really not. Would be interesting to eliminate vmount batteries from my rig. Right now the optics/IQ is just lacking a tad but it seems like it’s in the right direction
@@milesfranklyn like another commenter mentioned, once you use the high base iso of an fx6 you forget how many times you were stressing with older cams in not ideal lighting situation. It doesn’t even need to be particularly dark. Sometimes just a room with bad lighting can require that high base. I call it the magic button.
I've been looking more into the Sony Z200/HX800. How will this perform for airshows and fast flying jets? Currently, I own a panasonic x1500, but i find that the image quality is very muddy and not as sharp when zoomed in. Any thoughts on how Sony's new camcorder will perform for air shows?
This camcorder is very intriguing, I love the form factor. As an owner of an FX6 and FX30 I could see myself using this...but only as a B (or C cam). In Sony's announcement video yesterday you could see the difference in image quality between the Z200 and FX6--couldn't make it an A cam. That 24-480mm would be quite handy though. The deal breaker for me is the price. If it was in the $3K price range, I'd probably have preordered it.
When the FX6 was announced to be full frame I saw that as a double edged sword, FS5/FS7 being super 35 meant smaller lenses and or better zoom Way back in the day this group I worked for had a couple camcorders in the mix for this docustyle shoot and it was very convenient, excellent powered zoom ranged, great IS, parfocal lens if anything camcorders use to be the way to go for shooting video
My new Sony nx800 will be here Monday. I have no use for time code or SDI outputs or input. So I went with the cheaper model. I’m already in the semi ecosystem so it will be a nice addition to get some of that action across the racecourse at the dirtbike and ATV events that I go And film. I almost bought the canon XF605 but these two cameras and figured The autofocus will be really good just like in the A7RV
@@davidmorefield i sure can. Today is going to be soooo long cuz i am super excited to to finally get my first camcorder. I been watching so many different race events and i would go up and talk to the main filming crew or solo operators, and they are all using camcorders. Some are not even as big or fancy as this camera is and the videos are stunning and look sharp. One of my favorite channels is Ripitupfilms on UA-cam. He is using a Canon xf605 for his racing action is phenomenal. So this nx800 is clise to specs as the xf605, maybe not as many bells and whistles but video quality wise. So i will post some samples on my other channel and let you know. Hopefully the Pergear Cfexpress type A cards are compatible with it because i have a couple of them for my a7rv
@@davidmorefieldwell it showed up yesterday and wow is it smaller than I expected. Lighter than my Sony A7RV with battery grip with my sigma 70-200 f2.8 on it. I am just getting used to it and figure out all its features. But I am impressed so far with image quality, hand held stabilization when zoomed all the way out. My Pergear CFexpress type A card works with it without any of Sony’s interference 😂. And I picked up a spare 3rd party bp-u70 battery that gives it 300 minutes of recording.
@@davidmorefield i’ve been testing it out all day and I tried out the new auto framing and I’m gonna tell you what that will blow your mind. It’s like your own little camera guy following you around zooming in and panning right and left. And you can adjust the speedof the auto framing so it don’t look so jerky and quick. I am totally baffled on how they do it. But that is a pretty cool feature.
I really hope that the Z200 brings back the old glory of professional camcorders!! I have used Sony FX30, FX3 and FX6 and Canon C100 mk2 and older camcorders like the Canon XF300. They all have their uses...for live events I prefer a real Professional camcorder with good servo zoom and SDI etc Every tool has its use. I know this Sony Z200 is only 1" sensor so we cant compare it with APSC and forget about comparing it again full frame but it sure sounds promising...I'm sure the footage WILL NOT look as pretty as whatI can get with my FX30 and a good lens but it should give great video. I will wait to see reviews with real footage and comparisons..it's over 5K here in Canada...
I wont consider this camera but it will be good for many that need that workflow... The PXW camera series have been on the market for a long time. I used to work with the Sony PDX50 broadcast/Video Production quality back in the 2000's. Broadcast network love the PXW line for any overseas deployment and covering war and documentaries. For sure I will be keeping my FX6/FX3 for a long time, for me there is nothing to compare to that workflow. Most of us have made RIO already but I don't think investing on the new gadget will be a good financial decision when already invested on all the gear we have that is top of the line, have proven and delivered amazing quality content and have at least 5 more years of life. Anyways, as always, great video David! I can't believe you hooked me, and now I spent 5 minutes writing these! lol
@@miguelsalas1727 haha yeah it does feel weird that I’m arguing to downgrade my premium gear. But I love how the camcorder specs are improving! I used a Sony vx2000 on miniDV back in the day for skateboarding. Absolutely loved the form factor and have been chasing it ever since.
S35 sensor will make the package a lot bigger. Not ideal! I used this type of Sony camcorder to film National Basketball League comps. It’s super handy. Main focus is fast pace, super electric zoom, good quality, small file size, fast delivery. Cine cams can’t beat its broadcasting oriented design.
I made a lot of money with my sony hdr- fx1. That was a game changer 20 years ago. Worlds aren't colliding so much as camcorders have always been good. Yes glad to see camcorders are finally getting some new features though. You can stream online to your phone from the usbc port. =) Would be cool if they made one with a M43 sensor. Get a good in-between size.
Looks great for recording school sports, lower budget live events etc. 12g sdi is nice and I'm hoping this is indicative of what's coming across the line in future releases.
Loved your insight! I’ve been using a Canon VIXIA G40 to shoot high school sports the last seven years. Great run and value out of it, especially considering it’s a consumer model, but I think I’m upgrading to the NX800. The optical zoom is great for football and similar to what I have. The 1-inch sensor (almost double my Canon) is what truly intrigues me. Hopefully it will give me more options for better shots indoors and with low or wonky light settings.
@@mgoul78 I think the zoom will make a big difference but from what I’ve seen, the low light doesn’t look stellar. However it may be better than the vixia!
I'd say just make it micro four thirds - big enough sensor for some decent depth of field and lowlight while also being small enough for great small lens to exist. Basically the JVC LS300 but with an integrated lens.
@@kadeemcreates I agree and I think a lot of people would choose this over an fx6 at the same price! Some people prefer a camcorder’s features over a cinema cam’s features. I know operators who would gladly give up having to switch and carry lenses. They’d prefer the extreme focal range of a camcorder, servo zoom operation and the all in one- grab it out of the bag usability. I’m not harping on the fx6, I love this camera. But it would be cool if it had some more camcorder centric features… and this product is getting close.
This camera isn't for me but it's a great addition to Im guessing journalists and doco work where you really really need a run and gun that can take a beating. But yeah it's lacking some stuff I like :) Great video as always
Superb review…you bring up some very good points and insights regarding industry applications and needs. As for me, this camera is a no-brainer…I own the Sony XDCam EX-1 which I am very comfortable shooting with regarding the form factor and physical design. The Z200 blows my EX-1 out of the water regarding functions, image quality, options of course but because the size, design and form factor are similar, I’ll be purchasing soon.
@@davidlogan5267 It seems you are not alone in these comments. There are others who have been waiting for this upgrade. And I think it’s about time. I’m more so asking for a lot that isn’t quite necessary.
@@AcastroAX love to see it! I think brands should further their product offering with these hot shoe connections. Btw I’m not bashing canon in any way. Rather I’m pointing out MY desires for MY workflows. I think products like this and the c400 encourage all companies to continue innovation. In the end it benefits us.
@@paulgero Correct. This is the same fov I am used to when using a 24-105 on my c70. And I will say, there were so many times when I wished it was wider. This would be a major consideration as well. However I do have colleagues using the 35-150 for all of their shoots and they work around it.
I started with the dvx100b camcorder before dslr's could do video. Ive been hoping they would come back for video but they havent really added anything big/new in 17 years. The image quality/lowlight noise/depth of field just never caught up. This will probably be fun and easy to use but give you less quality.
@@BarefootMediaTV I’m very familiar with the dvx! We used it on our skateboarding videos too. Loved how crushed the blacks were and the availability of 24p. It seems like the camcorder and cinema world are still miles apart but they are on course to merge in the future.
@@marcoshilbert No. From the examples I’ve seen online, it doesn’t have the quality that I need for my high end work. So far the only footage on YT is from broadcast users. I’d love to see this in the hands of a higher end dp.
@@the_chad_0303 I love that it exists. The 35mm is a little hard to work with for wides. And the z200’s s35 24mm fov is the exact same. Having 2-2.8 is ridiculously good as well. But if I have that range, I’m tempted to look at the 28-135 for the servo and OSS capabilities. I have a lot of colleagues who use it though and they swear by it. I feel like you can’t go wrong with it.
It's a really nice lens for video, and pairs well with a 16-35mm. I am no fan of the 28-135mm powerzoom, I don't like the stale clinical image from that lens. The servo is also limiting on that lens. It's too fast for slow zooms, and too slow for fast / crash zooms, it's barely practically usable. I had a second hand one and sold it. It is really a lens made for journalists and news shooters, but not really a lens that gives a nice distinctive look.
The advantage of a z200 is controllable variable zoom and decent AF for when that is necessary. I see too many shooters trying to do live events with their hand on a manual zoom. Stop that!
There were a number of camcorders with s35 sensors about a decade ago, but they were all interchangeable lens mount bodies, because you cannot affordably replicate the zoom with a s35 coverage. That would make the lens double the size of the fixed lens, and probably cost 4-5 times what the camera body does. All of those cameras flopped in the marketplace.
@@davidmorefield mini XLR, and clients ask for Sony and Red more then they do Canon. I feel like if I say I shoot on canon they look at me like I'm shooting on a disposable camera from Walgreens.
I think a lot of corporate shooters would get a lot done with this camera. Especially for interviews with good lighting and audio. I feel like most videographers know this is true.
@@davidmorefield For real bro! Shooters are out here offering corporate clients Bokeh like it’s Grey Poupon or something 😂. Not to say that some corporate clients don’t want a little “Cinematism”, but the hard truth is that sometimes they just want you to fix their problem. It can really be done with a 4K camcorder and great lighting.
Apart from the clickbait title, these two cameras are for different purposes. Why do you say that the not-shallow depth of field look is boring? Ok, then all the Olympics from Paris were boring? Moreover, the difference between 1" sensor vs FF sensor is huge, you won't get the same look using the z200 and using the fx6 at all.
@@SportFlow No clickbait. I said in the video if this z200 has an s35 sensor I would sell my fx6. That’s a true statement. And I hope it is implemented in this lineup in the future. I can see it happening. Fingers crossed. Yes, I agree the difference between the IQ of these two cams are different. That’s also what I said in the video. They are getting closer and closer though. I’m very happy to see this happening as it’s not been possible before. And lastly, boring may not be the right word. Maybe it’s ‘lack of visual control’ seeing that it’s a small sensor, with an inability for a wide aperture- it’s limiting your tools to affect the image in how you see fit. You are pipelined through its restrictions (just like every camera) and cannot achieve the wide range of looks you can with a larger sensor. The lack of options could be… ‘boring.’
@@davidmorefield Ok, but to be honest, the hybrid camera you're asking for will never exist. It is impossible to fit a S35 sensor in a camcorder body and non-interchangeable lens and get the same focal lenghts. The lens will be huge and 10x more expensive. 2/3" is the sweet spot for HD and even for UHD (although in UHD the sensitivity is not that good). There is a huge market of broadcast 2/3" lenses and this wont change any time soon. 1" is a middle ground for camcorders this size. I can see sensors improving SNR in the next years before increasing in size.
@@SportFlow I’d gladly take a s35 sensor with a reduced focal range. 24-480 is downright nuts. I would happily accept a 24-250 with a larger sensor. It doesn’t need to be this exact camera with a larger sensor. Mft would be a great compromise as well.
3:16 here is your logic. Sony pushes you to use their top handles to get audio but Canon is bad because they give you sound in the body regardless of connection. They are not the same camera and not for the same user. Why is everyone trying to hold Canon to a higher standard than other brands? Why are you comparing a camcorder that has a few good uses (livestream, events etc.) to a camera that can practically can do it all?
@@AcastroAX because Canon’s logic is inconsistent. Why would their recent c300iii and c500ii all have full size xlr… yet their newest camera needs to reduce it down to a size that is not INDUSTRY standard and will require adapters. Can you buy an adapter? Of course you can. But I have yet to see someone justify why a non industry standard port is a benefit. It’s not. I’m literally holding canon to the average standard, not a higher standard. As I mentioned in the video, I’m comparing a camcorder to a cinema camera bc as tech evolves the feature segmentation and IQ difference is reducing further and further. Personally, I like this direction and hope it continues.
My biggest complaint about these cameras is they're not full frame. The specs look nice, but I've shot with M4/3 cameras, I've used Super 35 cameras basically my entire career and I have always wanted to shoot full frame, so that's what I'm looking at for my next purchase. I could however see this as a B/C camera.
@@ty-k6708 I actually see ff as more of a problem than a benefit. Mainly due to the large heavy optics it requires. I think s35 or even mft could be a nice middle ground.
@@davidmorefield All of my other six cameras are S35, my FX6 is my only FF camera. From a FOV mode, I much prefer S35 over FF. Thr only thing I like about FF is the insane ISO capability but FF really wasn’t needed. It was introduced primarily so a stagnant industry pre Covid could kick start sales of cameras and lenses. Nobody needed or was asking for FF digital video, but sales were sucking so the manufacturers figured it would kick start sales. It did.
@@davidmorefield It is. I shoot a weekly three camera live broadcast in S-Cinetone at ISO 5,000 high base. It's in a theater with theatrical kind of moody low key lighting and for a good portion of it, I need that ISO 5,000. I have wanted to add an FX30 as a plant camera but there is no way for this gig, even with f/1.4 primes, there just isn't enough light.
Thought the same! It really is a compelling all in one package for gigs where capturing the content matters more than how "cinematic" it looks. Anything with time limits, un-repeatable events and harsh conditions, I could see me wanting this over anything else. I just saw Luc Forsyth's video on the documentary film 20 days in Mariupal, and that's very much a case of getting the shot over being technically perfect. It really goes to show that story (although tragically real in this case) is king.
@@Ryan-Payne I loved luc’s last video! It felt so cool to be in the mind of a cinematographer. It would be so interesting to out this new camera in the hands of a doc filmmaker.
Here's the problem, the DVX200 exists. 4/3rd sensor, and thats a LOT bigger than one inch and a brighter lens. and a brighter lens. Noisy cause its a gh4 in a camcorder. Why they refuse to update it and put a gh5s sensor in there? Who knows. But hands down, you can get a used z90 and have 90 percent of that camera. Problem is, without a ton of light you will start getting noise in anything above 60p. The rx10 mark 2 had a F2.8! aperture, I could get beautiful shallow dof portraits, yet have an amazing built in lens! Problem is they refuse to bring a camera with a better aperture or a bigger sensor. They can, they have and it pisses me off, I have to mount a damn b4 lens to my camera. With an optical adapter that clears any issues right up. and its brighter than my z90 was, despite the light loss. Still no 32 bit float, the gh7 has it. For 4 grand theres no excuse for a variable aperture lens. 2/3rd inch sensors and 1 inch sensors are very close in size, and my b4 lens is 1.8. all the way. No excuses. I have a wonderful shoulder harness for camcorders, makes em a dream to use.
@@davidmorefield The dvx200 is proof they can make a large sensor camcorder. So its a problem when they constantly release cameras with worse specs, nearly 8 years later.
Hey David. I don’t know if you knew this but the link your description isn’t tap/clickable. If you add before hand it will make it clickable! Just noticed this and thought you would want to know! Awesome video and insight as well!
This is like saying you will trade your a7SIII for a Sony Z90...like WTF bro. You have obviously never dealt with a Sony 1" sensor camera, because those are basically budget toy cameras. As far as single sensor cameras go, anything less than M43 is basically a GoPro sensor witn the built-in lenses they put on the damn things. I see people also talking about how the Z200 is the Z280 replacement, and how much BIGGER the sensor is than 3MOS on the Z280. Again, people that have never played with a 1" sensor video camera have no idea what a huge miunderstanding of the situation they will get themselves into. This beast is also nearly as BIG and HEAVY as the Z280, uses the same EXPENSIVE 12v batteries, and runs the same cost as a used Z280. I think they removed QoS NCM streamign as well, so there goes the broadcaster market for TV statons that deploy that legacy system for live shots.
@@davidmorefield Yes, more of a warning towards people falling for a 1" as a "large" sensor. I am curious how a 1" Sony sensor would do if they slapped a 28-135 G lens on it...what would the aperture be with the 35 to 1" conversion end up being? (meanwhile fantasizing about a Sony OEM handgrip made to attach ENG style to the right side of the 28-135 using the screw holes on the bottom of the lens) :-D
Don't. The image quality is shit compared to fx6. No TV station uses this camera. This is for amateur, stock videos. You may want z280 but it costs as much as fx6
I pre-ordered mine within 12 hours of seeing the announcement. I really miss the days of using ENG type cameras.-- being able to pull it out the bag and start shooting, and no need to carry a bunch of lenses to swap mid-shoot is such a peace of mind. I love my FX6 and will continue to use it for the foreseeable future. But for corporate events, which is mainly what I do, the Z200 is the camera I have been waiting for. And it supports S-Cinetone so I can use it alongside my FX6 and the shots should match up quite well.
@@mediakobo See this is the exact situation that I know a lot of people are in. Honestly I’m surprised it’s taken Sony this long for a release. I’d love to hear more about it when you get it!
@@davidmorefield I have a Panasonic HC-X2 for certain uses, it has HDR / HLG / Vlog, 4k 60, built in ND (but does not have VND like Sony), Dual XLR, amazing battery life, SDI.
AF is pretty trash though.
@@travisminneapolis that hits a lot of good features! But yeah would definitely want good af if getting a camcorder.
@@travisminneapolisdo you think the z200 is bettet/has better features than the HCX2? I want to buy a new Camera but can‘t decide between the z200 and the hc x2
Pretty sweet camera! This seems perfect for events where you just sit in the back of the room and film a speaker. And you make a good point, this is starting to collide two worlds with this camera here! Cool stuff! I enjoy these discussions!
The Z200 has a ton of really cool features. But, as an FX6 owner, if there is ONE thing that's going to drive you crazy about it, it's the low light capability. The FX6 has you spoiled! You can shoot in terrible light conditions and come out looking like a champion because that FX6 is made to do that. The Z200 will be crushed under those same conditions. That 1inch-type sensor just can't compete with the FX6. It's not even close...it's miles behind the FX6. You are used to walking into and event and smashing that second 12,800 base ISO and then laughing as you happily go on shooting with ease. The Z200 will force you to stress MUCH more about the lighting in the events you shoot at. That 12,800 base ISO "weapon" wont be in your hands anymore....and you will miss it. You will lose about 1.5 to 2 stops of dynamic range too.
Yeah, his title makes him look, you know. A better title, "Will I Add A Sony Z200 For Corporate Events"
ISO 12800 - few people need shooting in such conditions. Yes, in very low light the FX6 will be better, but in normal or not very low light the z200 will simply destroy the FX6 in many scenes. The FX6 is an unsuitable camera for shooting complex scenes.
@@csamd9049 - Actually, 12,800 is VERY helpful in events! What happens when you are forced to be in the back of a room with a live audience??. You need to shoot LONG...as in 400 or 600mm? What do you know about long full frame glass? Super slow right? This is where the FX6 second base (high 0db) saves your tail. This very high second base ISO is a LIFE SAVER when shooting on slow glass. (especially in telephoto)
@@MaxoticsTV no I wouldn’t add this camera. It’s one or the other.
@@csamd9049 I disagree that the z200 will destroy fx6 in almost any capacity. What situations do you have in mind?
Also an FX6 owner, I don't think I could ever sacrifice the lowlight capabilities or even the full frame sensor. Camera looks awesome for a few niche settings though.
@@CyphrStudios yeah I think I might have forgotten about how much I’ve come to rely on that.
I love that the Sony Z200 offers such a wide focal range-it really lets me stay in the moment. This feature also minimizes the risk of exposing the sensor to dust or harsh weather, which is a huge relief in unpredictable environments. The focus tracking is incredible in most situations, even when there are foreground or background obstructions.
In documentary work, where you can’t ethically stage or redo moments, this is a game-changer. It allows you to capture a tight shot of someone’s hands or eyes and then immediately switch to a wide shot of the room, all without missing a beat or asking, “Can you do that again?” Too often, modern documentaries look polished but lack genuine moments and focal variety-especially when shooting with a single camera in real-time.
I’m excited to see Sony leaning into innovations like the Z200, but I agree-a lower base ISO and a larger sensor would take this camera to the next level.
That dream S35 system camera probably wont exist any time soon. The industries that are the main users of these compact broadcast cams dont want larger sensors because the people they get to use the cameras are typically not high skilled camera operators or they are extreme fast paced situations where deep depth of field can save a shot.
The developments I see that are most popular with these (and will continue to develop) are: inbuilt live streaming/FTP, autofocus, lens+body+digital stabilization and low light capabilities and long working life.
Compact broadcast cams also dont get updated much because even old old models already service the requirements of the industry that uses them most.
You can use an ancient P2 compact and even though its 720p with a black and white viewfinder, it still has ND, SDI, 2 XLR long battery life and is enough for 90% of broadcast applications.
@@jamesandcamera Yes, totally agree. Those features are what I was touching on towards the end. They are very functional but not sexy. However, I would even be happy with a m43 sensor in one of these camcorders. Hopefully there will be some innovation in the near future but yeah… s35 is a stretch.
fancy seeing you here.
It's just worth getting at $4k if you're doing doc and corporate, which I do so I am definitely matching it with my FX6 and FX3. Pick up and go and start shooting, with all coverage areas infinity and beyond!!!
@@baerichardson would love to hear your thoughts once you get it!
@@davidmorefield im grabbing it today for corp events. I have a two day event next week let's see how it goes . Can I use it for weddings ?
@@reigndavis7930 Oh that’s awesome. Would love to see any footage that you post. Sounds great for wedding ceremonies too.
More event/live advantage
So i have had owed the nx800 since 2 days after it has been released and I have been truly impressed with this camera / camcorder. I am so many full frame mirrorless cameras like the a7iv, a7rv, and i recently picked up the fx30 for up close racing action and planon using it for interviews. But the nx800 is the first camera i grab to do video. For live events and anything during the day its phenomenal. But in my opinion when the lighting is dim, noise is very noticeable. But i never expected it to be meantcfor low light. But the auto focus is fast and accurate like my a7rv. I've been only shooting straight out of the camera no s-log or hlg for Cinetone. I wasn't really happy with the s-log out of it compared to my fx30. So I got to do some more testing with that. But the variable ND filter is so nice since I do a lot of live racing I put it on auto and ND and leave everything else in manual and it makes exposing everything super easy.
This wont replace your fx6, nor a fx30. But will be a valuable tool for those looking for this a good camcorder with the need for a wide range of focal lengths to use in an all in one camera 12:35
@@Louphotos Thaks for the review! It sounds like a really efficient tool.
I would not change an FX6 for an integrated lens, 1 inch sensor camcorder… maybe add it to my gear for very specific situations…
@@VozMadridista I agree. But I think I would be tempted if it was a s35 sensor.
Everyone talks about how nice is to have S35 on this camera. Is like wanting a FF lens with 6x Zoom and fixed F2.8 that is light and affordable. That's a dream, not reality, because it involves physics in this case optic science. We should be thrill to have 1'' sensor instead of 1/2 or 1/3 the size standard of camcorders years ago or even the 2/3 or the typical ENG. That's a big improvement and having that with only a maximum of F4.5 not bad at all. I would like to see is the results of the clear zoom that rockets the range to 40X in FHD.
Also one thing to have in mind in here is that this video beast costs around 3K and a Sony lens like the 18-110mm APS-C F4 is almost the same price.
I'm considering here the NX800 and not the Z200 because I don't need to pay 600 Euros for SDI out when I can use an adaptor from 50 Euros.
@@algarveTV I’d happily pay double the price for improvements to the sensor and even less focal range. That would be more important to me.
For me, the fixed zoom lens needs to be brighter, wider, and less telephoto.
Otherwise for less price, FX30 with 18-105 plus a few primes is a lot more versatile for me.
I think the Z00 is more for ENG and cheap multi-camera works, for other kind of videos (such as music videos and commercials) you need the magic of a bigger sensor such as Super35 or full frame. Of course you can use the FX6 for news with the 28-135 F4 which has zoom, you have the nice look of cinema but a lot of compromises about focal lenght... you cannot compare 135mm to a 480mm (max tele of the Z200) and who is into broacast knows how often you need to shoot a speaking/acting subject ona stage (with a tripod), running for news you cannot stay chagining lenses and you often need zoom.
@@mantovatv2007 Totally agree. That’s why I’d love to see a hybrid of those two systems. Maybe some time in the future.
Based upon your FX6 build and use case, I can see the appeal of the Z200 for you. I have a long history with camcorders and before the DSLR Revolution, you only had two choices, big broadcast cameras or the smaller, lighter, fairly capable camcorders. I personally owned/own:
Panasonic
DVX100
HVX200
HPX170
HPX300 (sort of camcorder but with a removable 1/3" lens)
Sony
EX1
EX3
Canon
XF400
XA401
XF605 (we currently have one for our live streaming company)
What the others are saying is true. If you light most or all of your setups, the camcorders are pretty handy, good for outdoor or well lit event work as well. But we all end up in badly lit situations where we may or may not have the ability to light the scene, In those situations, ISO 1600 base with a 1" sensor is going to cramp your style pretty badly compared to an FX6.
Also, I don't foresee them making S35 camcorders, you are correct, it would make the lens larger, heavier, more complex and you would lose a lot of that insane focal range, you can't really cheat the laws of physics and it would massively increase the cost of the camcorder as well. It would also make the camcorder larger, bulkier, which is kind of defeating the thing that is cool about camcorders, that they pack a lot of optical punch in a relatively small and inexpensive package.
@@danbrockettDOP the dvx100 was awesome. Loved that it had 24p.
I would be really interested to see where a mft sensor would land the weight and size as far as optics go. Would still have some shallow dof too. That could be a great middle ground. However, I don’t see it happening as it wouldn’t be marketable to the masses who gravitate towards ff.
@@davidmorefield I remember doing my accounting and realizing that I bought my DVX100A for $5,000. Over three years of shooting, I billed that little camera out for a total of $68,000 in day rate fees, I traveled all over the world with that little camera, it was a joy to use. One of the most profitable cameras I ever owned. Those were the days!
For some reason, I think if the big 3 were going to put an M43 sensor in a camcorder, they already would have done it. The M43 sensor size has been around a long time. I think the buyers of these sorts of camcorders are very price sensitive and bigger sensor would increase cost a decrease focal range. Most of these are sold to smaller market news, corporate in-house, house or worship and governemtn clients where they often buy a pile of them too.
That's the cool thing about these, add media and you are ready to shoot, $3,999 versus all of us with our FX6s typically spent as much as the camera body in addition for lenses, batteries, media, arms, plates, cages, monitors, handles, etc. CInema cameras need a ton of accessories, camcorders, basically none.
@@danbrockettDOP simple is best.
I've been using the Panasonic HC-X1500/2000 for several years and am looking seriously at the NX800. When I bought the Panasonic I did so because Sony just had nothing that would do 50/60FPS at UHD resolutions, they were all capped at 30FPS. Now they've finally caught up and the bigger sensor (the Panny is a 1/2.3) will be nice. However, there is a *huge* price gap between the X1500 and the NX800.
@@xjet interesting, what type of work do you do?
@@davidmorefield Run and gun -- mainly RC model aircraft and the people that fly them. The zoom capabilities of a good camcorder (24x (600mm equiv) on the Panasonic) is really important when filming small models at distance and the ability to go from 600 to 24 and back to 600 without changing glass is essential when you want to capture the models *and* the faces of their pilots when things such as crashes happen. The 4-hours of operation on a single battery also sold me on the Panny, as did the very light weight. Holding a camcorder (because it's not on your shoulder) for several hours makes even the lightest camera feel heavy.
It's horses for courses. The HC-X1500 falls down a little on image quality (due to the smaller sensor) so I'd love to go up to a 1-inch sensor, especially if it doesn't cost me anything in the way of zoom range. I made this vid about what I do and what I use: ua-cam.com/video/Vdd33EQkG4s/v-deo.html
@@xjet wow that video is really informative. Thank you for sharing your thoughts on your tools of choice.
Congrats on 194k subs as well!!!
I too love this camera! My current ENG / Camcorder is a Canon XF-705 which is pretty great but definitely heavy and doesn't easily match my FX6 / FX3 / FX30. Interesting to hear your arguments for a Super 35 sensor and how that may increase "aggregarte convergence" between form factors. My favorite bit was the XLR discussion and puzzling head scratcher about the new Canon C400 not having them. Great video as always! Thank you
@@denver_video There’s even a strong argument for an MFT sensor. I think that could be a great middle ground.
@@davidmorefield very interesting... thanks! You also made me wonder if this type of Sony offering can offset tendency to make mirrorless form factor the B or C camera. At video podcast shoot this week I needed a full frame wide angle from the FX3 at 16mm but that's the exception more often than the rule. Shooting at F2.8 with this camera when there's enough room to move the camera and achieve the FF equivalent of something like 150mm... that would be pretty great for most interviews.
@@davidmorefieldIf Panasonic updated the DVX line to a DVX300 with the gh7 sensor it would be great. The dvx200 doesn't have great autofocus. I've compared the dvx200 next to one of their contemporary 1" camcorders (cx350) and the size/weight difference was significant. Still though, for the lens range and all that a camcorder brings to a package it's great. I doubt Sony would do a super 35 fixed lens camcorder. You certainly wouldn't get the long range zoom in that kind of package.
@@ledheavy26 yeah I think mft could be a sweet spot
I started out in skateboarding as well. We always shot with the Sony VX1000 and a .37x century optics thread on fisheye lens aptly nick named the "Death Lens"
@@QWSfilms I had a 2000 and the mark 2 fisheye. Loved that setup
I used a PD170 Back in the day, but the current killer skate setup would have to be a global shutter A9iii with a SEL20F18G or maybe the SEL14F18GM
@@LaurenceJanus 20 isn’t wide enough and I believe the 14mm is rectilinear, not fisheye. But that global shutter sounds great for skating.
I would definitely get a Sony FX60 style (fx6 body/S35 sensor) with upgrades. People have been asking for that for a while now!
@@chrisaaronfilms yes s35 hasn’t missed a beat and is still extremely viable.
Curiously the old Sony Ex1r was able to have hard stop focus.. you just need to put the focus ring in different position, they could adopt that for this camera.. 😅... Btw the Z200 is very similar to an older brother EX1r... with 4k and some improvements.. 🙃
I would use this camera in combination with a minimalist A7s3 or Fx3 rig and a prime lens for low light shot. I am considering to buy it, especially for zoom range.
Why choose ? Use both
@@holsteincowboy for simplicity, I’d like to be on one system.
I’m trying to figure out why Sony would move the iris ring from the lens to the camera body. Just doesn’t seem like a natural progression from their previous “camcorders” I.e. nx5 150 190
@@ethiller I was wondering the same thing but forgot to comment on it. I wish it was on the lens.
@@ethiller That is one thing Canon nailed on the XF-605, three ring lens controls, more intuitive than the tiny scroll wheel on the body.
I feel like Sony takes 2 steps forward and 1 step backwards. Maybe corporate is calling the shots on design?
For me, the fixed zoom lens needs to be brighter, wider, and less telephoto. I also hope that they make a smaller version of it under 2lbs. If not, they need to update RX10, RX100, ZV1 asap.
@@frankfeng2701 highly agree! Would love a wider and brighter lens even if it meant less reach
You are describing a Sony Z90 and other similar micro broadcast cameras
Sony HDR-FX1, a camera way ahead of its time had: optical steady shoot, manual zoom, rocker zoom, manual adjustments, internal ND, amazing cam. So much fun to operate. Too bad, Sony Television-Video and the Mirrorless Cam (many years later) Departments never appear to have really shared tech. So now the Z200 looks exciting, but still appears to be missing some of the features of the Sony HDR-FX1 has finally showed up on the block. Really liked your review David. Let us know how the cam turns out for you. 😎😎
@@gbwalther3198 I remember that fx1! I had a vx-2000 on mini dv at the time.
Love these rants brother. I was very intrigued by this. Very excited to see the future of these cameras. It’s not far off!
@@jonwaldman94 It’s really not. Would be interesting to eliminate vmount batteries from my rig. Right now the optics/IQ is just lacking a tad but it seems like it’s in the right direction
The lowlight capability can’t be THAT bad right?
@@milesfranklyn like another commenter mentioned, once you use the high base iso of an fx6 you forget how many times you were stressing with older cams in not ideal lighting situation. It doesn’t even need to be particularly dark. Sometimes just a room with bad lighting can require that high base. I call it the magic button.
I started with Camcorders and was looking at this. Pretty cool great for run and fun too
@@RealLifewithAdrianRuth Haha run n fun sounds better than run n gun 🤣
@@davidmorefield lol type o
I've been looking more into the Sony Z200/HX800. How will this perform for airshows and fast flying jets? Currently, I own a panasonic x1500, but i find that the image quality is very muddy and not as sharp when zoomed in. Any thoughts on how Sony's new camcorder will perform for air shows?
@@Mach1Aviationt I haven’t had a chance to test it. Would love to see more field tests on UA-cam from others.
This camcorder is very intriguing, I love the form factor. As an owner of an FX6 and FX30 I could see myself using this...but only as a B (or C cam). In Sony's announcement video yesterday you could see the difference in image quality between the Z200 and FX6--couldn't make it an A cam. That 24-480mm would be quite handy though. The deal breaker for me is the price. If it was in the $3K price range, I'd probably have preordered it.
@@scottsmokerx I would love to see a pro version of the z200 where they added an aperture ring, linear and servo lens setting.
When the FX6 was announced to be full frame I saw that as a double edged sword, FS5/FS7 being super 35 meant smaller lenses and or better zoom
Way back in the day this group I worked for had a couple camcorders in the mix for this docustyle shoot and it was very convenient, excellent powered zoom ranged, great IS, parfocal lens
if anything camcorders use to be the way to go for shooting video
@@Supercon57 it totally is a double edged sword. S35 seems to be a great compromise. I’d love to even see some mft camcorders in the mix.
My new Sony nx800 will be here Monday. I have no use for time code or SDI outputs or input. So I went with the cheaper model. I’m already in the semi ecosystem so it will be a nice addition to get some of that action across the racecourse at the dirtbike and ATV events that I go And film. I almost bought the canon XF605 but these two cameras and figured The autofocus will be really good just like in the A7RV
@@LMActionsports would love to hear how it works out. You’re the first one I know who’s received theirs.
@@davidmorefield i sure can. Today is going to be soooo long cuz i am super excited to to finally get my first camcorder. I been watching so many different race events and i would go up and talk to the main filming crew or solo operators, and they are all using camcorders. Some are not even as big or fancy as this camera is and the videos are stunning and look sharp. One of my favorite channels is Ripitupfilms on UA-cam. He is using a Canon xf605 for his racing action is phenomenal. So this nx800 is clise to specs as the xf605, maybe not as many bells and whistles but video quality wise. So i will post some samples on my other channel and let you know. Hopefully the Pergear Cfexpress type A cards are compatible with it because i have a couple of them for my a7rv
@@davidmorefieldwell it showed up yesterday and wow is it smaller than I expected. Lighter than my Sony A7RV with battery grip with my sigma 70-200 f2.8 on it. I am just getting used to it and figure out all its features. But I am impressed so far with image quality, hand held stabilization when zoomed all the way out. My Pergear CFexpress type A card works with it without any of Sony’s interference 😂. And I picked up a spare 3rd party bp-u70 battery that gives it 300 minutes of recording.
@@LMActionsports awesome!!!
@@davidmorefield i’ve been testing it out all day and I tried out the new auto framing and I’m gonna tell you what that will blow your mind. It’s like your own little camera guy following you around zooming in and panning right and left. And you can adjust the speedof the auto framing so it don’t look so jerky and quick. I am totally baffled on how they do it. But that is a pretty cool feature.
I really hope that the Z200 brings back the old glory of professional camcorders!! I have used Sony FX30, FX3 and FX6 and Canon C100 mk2 and older camcorders like the Canon XF300. They all have their uses...for live events I prefer a real Professional camcorder with good servo zoom and SDI etc Every tool has its use. I know this Sony Z200 is only 1" sensor so we cant compare it with APSC and forget about comparing it again full frame but it sure sounds promising...I'm sure the footage WILL NOT look as pretty as whatI can get with my FX30 and a good lens but it should give great video.
I will wait to see reviews with real footage and comparisons..it's over 5K here in Canada...
@@TheFandangovideoguy yes I would love to see what the footage looks like when they put it in the hands of skilled users.
I wont consider this camera but it will be good for many that need that workflow...
The PXW camera series have been on the market for a long time. I used to work with the Sony PDX50 broadcast/Video Production quality back in the 2000's. Broadcast network love the PXW line for any overseas deployment and covering war and documentaries.
For sure I will be keeping my FX6/FX3 for a long time, for me there is nothing to compare to that workflow. Most of us have made RIO already but I don't think investing on the new gadget will be a good financial decision when already invested on all the gear we have that is top of the line, have proven and delivered amazing quality content and have at least 5 more years of life.
Anyways, as always, great video David!
I can't believe you hooked me, and now I spent 5 minutes writing these! lol
@@miguelsalas1727 haha yeah it does feel weird that I’m arguing to downgrade my premium gear. But I love how the camcorder specs are improving! I used a Sony vx2000 on miniDV back in the day for skateboarding. Absolutely loved the form factor and have been chasing it ever since.
S35 sensor will make the package a lot bigger. Not ideal! I used this type of Sony camcorder to film National Basketball League comps. It’s super handy. Main focus is fast pace, super electric zoom, good quality, small file size, fast delivery. Cine cams can’t beat its broadcasting oriented design.
@@danieltang2488 I agree. Maybe mft sized sensor would be a middle ground
What about a FX60 APSC version of the FX6
@@nyambe if I could pair that up with a lighter newer version of the 18-110, that sounds like a solid trade off.
I made a lot of money with my sony hdr- fx1. That was a game changer 20 years ago. Worlds aren't colliding so much as camcorders have always been good. Yes glad to see camcorders are finally getting some new features though. You can stream online to your phone from the usbc port. =) Would be cool if they made one with a M43 sensor. Get a good in-between size.
@@kennyadvocat I think m43 would be an amazing middle ground.
@@davidmorefield a Fujinon broadcast lense in m43 and a nice matching sony body.
Looks great for recording school sports, lower budget live events etc. 12g sdi is nice and I'm hoping this is indicative of what's coming across the line in future releases.
@@olindamedia you and me both brother! I want them to punch this product line further!
Loved your insight! I’ve been using a Canon VIXIA G40 to shoot high school sports the last seven years. Great run and value out of it, especially considering it’s a consumer model, but I think I’m upgrading to the NX800. The optical zoom is great for football and similar to what I have. The 1-inch sensor (almost double my Canon) is what truly intrigues me. Hopefully it will give me more options for better shots indoors and with low or wonky light settings.
@@mgoul78 I think the zoom will make a big difference but from what I’ve seen, the low light doesn’t look stellar. However it may be better than the vixia!
They made the VG-30 , ten years ago. But unfortunately sony stopped doing that😅😅😅😅
I'd say just make it micro four thirds - big enough sensor for some decent depth of field and lowlight while also being small enough for great small lens to exist. Basically the JVC LS300 but with an integrated lens.
The feature set of what you just mentioned would put it into an arena of an FX-6 price range…
@@AdamKuzniar yes I’ve been saying this as well! Would love to have that combo.
@@kadeemcreates I agree and I think a lot of people would choose this over an fx6 at the same price! Some people prefer a camcorder’s features over a cinema cam’s features. I know operators who would gladly give up having to switch and carry lenses. They’d prefer the extreme focal range of a camcorder, servo zoom operation and the all in one- grab it out of the bag usability. I’m not harping on the fx6, I love this camera. But it would be cool if it had some more camcorder centric features… and this product is getting close.
Well, the lenses probably need be a lot bigger to cover m43 sensor, which will make the entire camera bigger and heavier.
This camera isn't for me but it's a great addition to Im guessing journalists and doco work where you really really need a run and gun that can take a beating. But yeah it's lacking some stuff I like :)
Great video as always
@@stuartswindellcampoy8483 I could also see it heavily used for doc, run n gun and Eng capture.
Thanks for checking out the video!
Superb review…you bring up some very good points and insights regarding industry applications and needs. As for me, this camera is a no-brainer…I own the Sony XDCam EX-1 which I am very comfortable shooting with regarding the form factor and physical design. The Z200 blows my EX-1 out of the water regarding functions, image quality, options of course but because the size, design and form factor are similar, I’ll be purchasing soon.
@@davidlogan5267 It seems you are not alone in these comments. There are others who have been waiting for this upgrade. And I think it’s about time. I’m more so asking for a lot that isn’t quite necessary.
I have noise when I'm filming. Can you tell me the tips and settings I use when I'm filming in low light? I was filming with s-cinetone, 4k.
@@fokalestudio low light is usually always going to have its noise. I don’t do anything specific to combat it.
3:52 same thing canon does! With the MI connection
@@AcastroAX love to see it! I think brands should further their product offering with these hot shoe connections.
Btw I’m not bashing canon in any way. Rather I’m pointing out MY desires for MY workflows. I think products like this and the c400 encourage all companies to continue innovation. In the end it benefits us.
Super 35 would have been nice indeed and a wider aperture.
Can't wait to see real word test 😊
@@vaustop5341 fingers crossed it will be implemented in the future. Yes, I’d love to see more footage, especially log.
not sure it's wide enough -- if it's 24mm on S35 wouldn't that make it a 36mm FF equivalent?
@@paulgero Correct. This is the same fov I am used to when using a 24-105 on my c70. And I will say, there were so many times when I wished it was wider. This would be a major consideration as well. However I do have colleagues using the 35-150 for all of their shoots and they work around it.
@@davidmorefield perhaps they will come out with a high performing wide angle adapter that goes in front of t of the main lens.
@@paulgero that’s an option!
Don't forget clear image zoom
@@ianhodgsonphoto_video adds even more reach!
I started with the dvx100b camcorder before dslr's could do video. Ive been hoping they would come back for video but they havent really added anything big/new in 17 years. The image quality/lowlight noise/depth of field just never caught up. This will probably be fun and easy to use but give you less quality.
@@BarefootMediaTV I’m very familiar with the dvx! We used it on our skateboarding videos too. Loved how crushed the blacks were and the availability of 24p.
It seems like the camcorder and cinema world are still miles apart but they are on course to merge in the future.
so did you do it?
@@marcoshilbert No. From the examples I’ve seen online, it doesn’t have the quality that I need for my high end work. So far the only footage on YT is from broadcast users. I’d love to see this in the hands of a higher end dp.
What are your thoughts on the Tamron 35-150mm f/2-2.8? Would that give you the zoom reach you are looking for with f/2.8.
@@the_chad_0303 I love that it exists. The 35mm is a little hard to work with for wides. And the z200’s s35 24mm fov is the exact same. Having 2-2.8 is ridiculously good as well. But if I have that range, I’m tempted to look at the 28-135 for the servo and OSS capabilities. I have a lot of colleagues who use it though and they swear by it. I feel like you can’t go wrong with it.
It's a really nice lens for video, and pairs well with a 16-35mm.
I am no fan of the 28-135mm powerzoom, I don't like the stale clinical image from that lens. The servo is also limiting on that lens. It's too fast for slow zooms, and too slow for fast / crash zooms, it's barely practically usable. I had a second hand one and sold it. It is really a lens made for journalists and news shooters, but not really a lens that gives a nice distinctive look.
Very interesting review. Thank you !
@@maxencebriet2372 thanks for checking it out.
The advantage of a z200 is controllable variable zoom and decent AF for when that is necessary. I see too many shooters trying to do live events with their hand on a manual zoom. Stop that!
From what I've seen so far FX6 footage still looks a lot better.
@@tejaspics massive difference. Especially in log and low light
There were a number of camcorders with s35 sensors about a decade ago, but they were all interchangeable lens mount bodies, because you cannot affordably replicate the zoom with a s35 coverage. That would make the lens double the size of the fixed lens, and probably cost 4-5 times what the camera body does. All of those cameras flopped in the marketplace.
Does it hv variable shutters for shooting lcd screen and stuff like the other newer sony cameras?
@@TheMTJOE variable shutter speed? Definitely.
When I saw it I was super excited. then it quickly faded. I don't even think I could use it as a B camera. looks super dope though.
@@carloscmedia That’s how I feel for most camera releases.
@@davidmorefield The camera that almost got me was the Canon C400 I thought for a moment I was going to switch. BUT nope.
@@carloscmedia what was the dealbreaker?
@@davidmorefield mini XLR, and clients ask for Sony and Red more then they do Canon. I feel like if I say I shoot on canon they look at me like I'm shooting on a disposable camera from Walgreens.
Thank you for sharing David!
@@MikeAustinMedia At least someone enjoys it 😂
@@davidmorefield 😂 - You put a lot of time and effort into your videos, and its much appreciated 🙏🏼
@@MikeAustinMedia Thanks man! This was a one-take. Just brain dumped to the camera and exported it out. Fast and easy.
@4:00 And the cat has entered the room.
@@mowomedia4801 that cat was my girlfriend 😂 but in fairness, she really wants us to get a cat.
I think a lot of corporate shooters would get a lot done with this camera. Especially for interviews with good lighting and audio.
I feel like most videographers know this is true.
@@benarnoux Totally agree. This camera is a powerhouse for that vertical.
@@davidmorefield For real bro! Shooters are out here offering corporate clients Bokeh like it’s Grey Poupon or something 😂. Not to say that some corporate clients don’t want a little “Cinematism”, but the hard truth is that sometimes they just want you to fix their problem. It can really be done with a 4K camcorder and great lighting.
Long live the camcorder! But not quit yet unfortunately. Too many drawbacks.
@@sixofsix unfortunately… I agree.
Apart from the clickbait title, these two cameras are for different purposes. Why do you say that the not-shallow depth of field look is boring? Ok, then all the Olympics from Paris were boring? Moreover, the difference between 1" sensor vs FF sensor is huge, you won't get the same look using the z200 and using the fx6 at all.
@@SportFlow No clickbait. I said in the video if this z200 has an s35 sensor I would sell my fx6. That’s a true statement. And I hope it is implemented in this lineup in the future. I can see it happening. Fingers crossed.
Yes, I agree the difference between the IQ of these two cams are different. That’s also what I said in the video. They are getting closer and closer though. I’m very happy to see this happening as it’s not been possible before.
And lastly, boring may not be the right word. Maybe it’s ‘lack of visual control’ seeing that it’s a small sensor, with an inability for a wide aperture- it’s limiting your tools to affect the image in how you see fit. You are pipelined through its restrictions (just like every camera) and cannot achieve the wide range of looks you can with a larger sensor. The lack of options could be… ‘boring.’
@@davidmorefield Ok, but to be honest, the hybrid camera you're asking for will never exist. It is impossible to fit a S35 sensor in a camcorder body and non-interchangeable lens and get the same focal lenghts. The lens will be huge and 10x more expensive. 2/3" is the sweet spot for HD and even for UHD (although in UHD the sensitivity is not that good). There is a huge market of broadcast 2/3" lenses and this wont change any time soon. 1" is a middle ground for camcorders this size. I can see sensors improving SNR in the next years before increasing in size.
@@SportFlow I’d gladly take a s35 sensor with a reduced focal range. 24-480 is downright nuts. I would happily accept a 24-250 with a larger sensor. It doesn’t need to be this exact camera with a larger sensor. Mft would be a great compromise as well.
Do you plan to get 28-105 F2.8 Sigma for your FX6? :D
@@JoATTech no. I’ll make a video on it.
3:16 here is your logic. Sony pushes you to use their top handles to get audio but Canon is bad because they give you sound in the body regardless of connection. They are not the same camera and not for the same user. Why is everyone trying to hold Canon to a higher standard than other brands? Why are you comparing a camcorder that has a few good uses (livestream, events etc.) to a camera that can practically can do it all?
@@AcastroAX because Canon’s logic is inconsistent. Why would their recent c300iii and c500ii all have full size xlr… yet their newest camera needs to reduce it down to a size that is not INDUSTRY standard and will require adapters. Can you buy an adapter? Of course you can. But I have yet to see someone justify why a non industry standard port is a benefit. It’s not.
I’m literally holding canon to the average standard, not a higher standard.
As I mentioned in the video, I’m comparing a camcorder to a cinema camera bc as tech evolves the feature segmentation and IQ difference is reducing further and further. Personally, I like this direction and hope it continues.
My biggest complaint about these cameras is they're not full frame. The specs look nice, but I've shot with M4/3 cameras, I've used Super 35 cameras basically my entire career and I have always wanted to shoot full frame, so that's what I'm looking at for my next purchase. I could however see this as a B/C camera.
@@ty-k6708 I actually see ff as more of a problem than a benefit. Mainly due to the large heavy optics it requires. I think s35 or even mft could be a nice middle ground.
@@davidmorefield All of my other six cameras are S35, my FX6 is my only FF camera. From a FOV mode, I much prefer S35 over FF. Thr only thing I like about FF is the insane ISO capability but FF really wasn’t needed.
It was introduced primarily so a stagnant industry pre Covid could kick start sales of cameras and lenses.
Nobody needed or was asking for FF digital video, but sales were sucking so the manufacturers figured it would kick start sales. It did.
@@danbrockettDOP insane iso is nice.
@@davidmorefield It is. I shoot a weekly three camera live broadcast in S-Cinetone at ISO 5,000 high base. It's in a theater with theatrical kind of moody low key lighting and for a good portion of it, I need that ISO 5,000. I have wanted to add an FX30 as a plant camera but there is no way for this gig, even with f/1.4 primes, there just isn't enough light.
@@danbrockettDOP the fx6 really is something special
Thought the same! It really is a compelling all in one package for gigs where capturing the content matters more than how "cinematic" it looks. Anything with time limits, un-repeatable events and harsh conditions, I could see me wanting this over anything else. I just saw Luc Forsyth's video on the documentary film 20 days in Mariupal, and that's very much a case of getting the shot over being technically perfect. It really goes to show that story (although tragically real in this case) is king.
@@Ryan-Payne I loved luc’s last video! It felt so cool to be in the mind of a cinematographer. It would be so interesting to out this new camera in the hands of a doc filmmaker.
Looks promising, but not quite there yet.
@@TwangThang57 thanks for accurately summarizing the video in 7 words. 😂
Why can’t Sony just manufacture a 4K-6K full frame ENG fixed lens camera??
It's a beast for different purpose
@@victorlolo2008 I agree. I’m trying to fit a square peg into a round hole. But I do love that Sony is pushing this product line.
Wait, you can't change focus ring to linear? Panasonic have this since I think gh5 II 🤔 Can someone with sony camcorder fact check this? 😉
@@JohnyTFK the z200 is fly by wire, not linear.
@@davidmorefield in gh5m2 it's software option. Maybe they can add it
@@JohnyTFK It would be interesting to see. However, even if executed, there are no focus marks on the lens so you wouldn’t be able to see it.
Here's the problem, the DVX200 exists. 4/3rd sensor, and thats a LOT bigger than one inch and a brighter lens.
and a brighter lens. Noisy cause its a gh4 in a camcorder. Why they refuse to update it and put a gh5s sensor in there? Who knows. But hands down, you can get a used z90 and have 90 percent of that camera. Problem is, without a ton of light you will start getting noise in anything above 60p. The rx10 mark 2 had a F2.8! aperture, I could get beautiful shallow dof portraits, yet have an amazing built in lens! Problem is they refuse to bring a camera with a better aperture or a bigger sensor. They can, they have and it pisses me off, I have to mount a damn b4 lens to my camera. With an optical adapter that clears any issues right up. and its brighter than my z90 was, despite the light loss.
Still no 32 bit float, the gh7 has it.
For 4 grand theres no excuse for a variable aperture lens. 2/3rd inch sensors and 1 inch sensors are very close in size, and my b4 lens is 1.8. all the way. No excuses.
I have a wonderful shoulder harness for camcorders, makes em a dream to use.
@@chrisw443 why is it a problem that the dvx200 exists?
@@davidmorefield The dvx200 is proof they can make a large sensor camcorder. So its a problem when they constantly release cameras with worse specs, nearly 8 years later.
@@chrisw443 I think we are saying the same thing. A camcorder, with a larger sensor and modern specs would be very popular.
The FS5 was almost what you are wishing for. Too bad they discontinued it instead of improving it.
@@christianhervas4309 but the servo zoom for that (18-110 PZ) is bigger than the actual camera 😅
Hey David. I don’t know if you knew this but the link your description isn’t tap/clickable. If you add before hand it will make it clickable! Just noticed this and thought you would want to know! Awesome video and insight as well!
Hey! For all the links? Or one in particular?
for your own website!
@@luker1ng wow I never realized that. You are right. Just fixed it.
This is like saying you will trade your a7SIII for a Sony Z90...like WTF bro. You have obviously never dealt with a Sony 1" sensor camera, because those are basically budget toy cameras. As far as single sensor cameras go, anything less than M43 is basically a GoPro sensor witn the built-in lenses they put on the damn things. I see people also talking about how the Z200 is the Z280 replacement, and how much BIGGER the sensor is than 3MOS on the Z280. Again, people that have never played with a 1" sensor video camera have no idea what a huge miunderstanding of the situation they will get themselves into. This beast is also nearly as BIG and HEAVY as the Z280, uses the same EXPENSIVE 12v batteries, and runs the same cost as a used Z280. I think they removed QoS NCM streamign as well, so there goes the broadcaster market for TV statons that deploy that legacy system for live shots.
@@paulanderegg5536 Right, you heard the part where I’m not getting it bc the sensor is too small?
@@davidmorefield Yes, more of a warning towards people falling for a 1" as a "large" sensor. I am curious how a 1" Sony sensor would do if they slapped a 28-135 G lens on it...what would the aperture be with the 35 to 1" conversion end up being? (meanwhile fantasizing about a Sony OEM handgrip made to attach ENG style to the right side of the 28-135 using the screw holes on the bottom of the lens) :-D
@@paulanderegg5536 I think a side grip on the 28-135 makes a ton of sense
Fuck, I want this camera 😅😅 So freaking good!
@@sunflowerdeath it’s super interesting!
This is not a Camera for you, if it were youd already own the z150. Its for broadcast and people who need it already bought a bunch of these
@@paulloth I agree
E.N.G......hi ! your late !.....we have been waiting for you,..sins the 90's !...L.O.L. !
That's seven thousand one hundred Australian dollars.
You must be rich.
@@dazzfromaus4797 There’s way more expensive cameras than $7k.
Don't. The image quality is shit compared to fx6. No TV station uses this camera. This is for amateur, stock videos. You may want z280 but it costs as much as fx6
@@petrub27 no one uses it bc it’s not even released yet 😂