The Sony FDR-AX1 Digital 4K Video Camera Recorder is the first
consumer 4K video camera from Sony. They've used the technology
developed for their professional video cameras to create a compact,
easy-to-operate 4K consumer model that's designed to make 4K video and
professional-quality audio available to the masses. The FDR-AX1's
powerful image processor is identical to the high-performance processors
found in Sony's professional video cameras. By incorporating an image
processor that can handle 4K video at 60 fps into a consumer camcorder,
everyone will be able to document important family moments, get creative
with friends, record sporting events and capture the world around them
in lifelike detail. The FDR-AX1's native 3840 x 2160 4K resolution
enables you to create movies with four times as much detail and
quadruple the image quality of a Full HD 1080p camcorder. Plus, this
model features a back-illuminated 8.3MP Exmor R CMOS image sensor that
works in concert with the processor so you can record at the maximum
frame rate - even when shooting 4K video. This means that even your
high-speed action shots and sports videos will be clear, sharp and
detailed.
In order to provide 4K video recording in a consumer model, Sony
designed the FDR-AX1 to support the XAVC-S 4K/HD recording format which
is usually reserved for professional applications. However, since the
XAVC-S codec will save as an MP4 wrapper, you can still create
web-friendly videos that can be easily shared on social media sites like
YouTube. Another highlight of the XAVC-S recording format is its
ability to record images at 150 Mbps in 4K. In fact, it can record
images at 50 Mbps even when you're shooting in Full HD 1920 x1080
resolution. The FDR-AX1 has also adopted a more professional-type of
recording media thanks to the inclusion of dual next-generation XQD
media card slots. Both XQD card slots support fast 4K/HD writing and
reading rates. Plus, you can use the relay recording function to switch
between XQD slots and lengthen your recording time. You'll also be able
to quickly transfer footage via SuperSpeed USB 3.0 from your XQD cards
to your PC by using an optional XQD reader/writer with a USB 3.0
connection.
Another feature that makes the FDR-AX1 a professional-class consumer
video camera is its audio recording capability. It records 2-channel
Linear PCM audio with a built-in high-performance stereo microphone.
However, the camera also features dual integrated professional-class XLR
audio inputs for connecting external microphones. You'll even be able
to mix audio tracks from the internal microphone with the audio recorded
from any connected external mics. There are a variety of shot-enhancing
functions and manual control options as well. More experienced
videographers will be able to take advantage of the independent zoom,
focus and iris rings. Plus, the camera's viewfinder and LCD monitor
employ Peaking, Zebra and Center Marker functionality for more advanced
shot setup and autofocus options.
Other image-enhancing features include three ND filters and five unique
Paint functions, which will help you achieve a more cinematic aesthetic
with your movies. The FDR-AX1 has flexible connectivity options as well.
Besides the XLR audio inputs, the camera is equipped with a headphone
jack, an HDMI output that will transfer 4K footage to compatible 4K
Bravia TVs, a USB 2.0 port for fast data transfers, an analog A/V
output, an accessory shoe and more. With the flexible connectivity
options, professional-class features, 4K recording capability and
ease-of-use, the FDR-AX1 bridges the gap between consumer and
professional-class. While experienced videographers will be able to
really produce great video and audio with this model, even ambitious
beginners will be able to master this camera and capture professional
looking, cinematic 4K video with ultra-clear stereo audio.
- Capture 4K 3840 x 2160p Video at 60 fps
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This model supports 4K 3840 x 2160 resolution. With four times
better than Full HD 1080p image quality, you'll be able to capture the
finest details at high resolution and produce vibrant, realistic images.
Plus, the fast image processor is the same one employed in professional
Sony models, making it possible to record 60p movies at the camera's
full resolution for smooth playback with no loss in realism - even when
panning the camera and shooting moving subjects.
- Sony G Lens with 20x Zoom
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The Sony G Lens is an aspheric lens with special low-dispersion
glass. It's specially tuned to capture subtle qualities of definition
and color. In addition, the lens offers a broad 20x optical zooming
range with a 31.5 - 630mm (35mm equivalent) focal length that enables an
expansive range of video expression.
- 1/2.3" Back-Illuminated 8.3MP Exmor R CMOS Image Sensor
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Sony's unique Exmor R CMOS sensor has a back-illuminated
structure with wiring layers on the back of a photodiode (light
receiving element) that dramatically boosts low-light sensitivity for
shooting more lifelike images - even in dim lighting. This Sony
technology also makes the camera nimble, so it can read massive 4K data
at 60 fps.
- Professional Image Processor for Real-Time 4K / 60 fps Recording
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The FDR-AX1's image processor is identical to those in 4K
camcorders used by professionals. It rapidly processes signals
transmitted from the CMOS sensor and finalizes images. In processing the
vast 4K data in real-time at 60p, the processor achieves four times the
resolution of the Full HD 1080p format. This processor also features
high-performance noise reduction for truer images, while image quality
adjustment functions support greater freedom of expression. It is also
specially tuned for the FDR-AX1 to deliver accelerated image processing
performance.
- XAVC-S Consumer-Use 4K/HD Recording Format
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The FDR-AX1 records 4K/HD movies in the XAVC-S codec, which was
developed for consumer usage based on the professional XAVC 4K/HD codec.
XAVC-S uses MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 long GOP for video and LPCM for audio
compression, while saving files in MP4 format. The XAVC-S codec also
allows longer recording times within a given media capacity than XAVC,
making 4K recording easier and more convenient.
- XAVC-S 150 Mbps 4K Video & 50 Mbps HD Video
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With the FDR-AX1, high-quality XAVC-S video can be recorded at
up to 150 Mbps. Additionally, there is also an option to record
high-quality Full HD 1080p video at 50 Mbps.
- Dual XQD Media Card Slots for High-Speed 4K Recording & Playback
-
The FDR-AX1 features two XQD media card slots. XQD media cards
provide smooth, high-speed reading and writing of 4K/HD video. Plus, a
relay recording feature makes it possible to lengthen recording by
automatically switching between two or more media options. You can
quickly transfer data to a PC as well, by using an XQD reader/writer
with a USB 3.0 connection. The FDR-AX1 is compatible with S-Series,
H-Series and N-Series XQD media card types.
- View 4K/60p Video on Compatible BRAVIA TVs with Supplied HDMI Cable
-
The FDR-AX1 supports playback of your recorded 4K content on a
4K TV by simply connecting the two devices using the supplied HDMI
cable. Thanks to the camera's original function, you'll be able to
transmit 4K/60p (4:2:0, 8-bit) signals to a Sony BRAVIA 4K TV, which is
specially tuned to bring out the full quality of your 4K/60p video
recordings. Even fast-moving sports and action footage will be clear and
smooth. To enjoy this content on a Full HD monitor, simply change the
menu HDMI output settings to 1920 x 1080. If you have a 4K monitor, you
can use the supplied HDMI cable to transmit 4K/30p signals from the
camera to the monitor.
- TRILUMINOS Color Technology
-
The FDR-AX1 supports Sony's TRILUMINOS Color technology, which
allows you to view photos and movies in rich, natural colors on any
TRILUMINOS-equipped television. The expanded color gamut ensures
lifelike, vivid colors when you playback your recorded video and still
shots.
- Save 4K Video Content to Your PC
-
The FDR-AX1 provides two methods for connecting and transferring
footage to a PC. You can use a USB cable or insert your XQD memory card
into an XQD reader/writer that is connected to your PC. You can also
save data from the camera to other media sources like external HDDs.
Once you've download data onto your PC, you can use Sony's PlayMemories
Home software to manage and play your videos. You can edit video with
the XAVC-S-compatible non-linear editing software as well. After your
footage is edited, you'll be able to upload and share your 4K movies on
social media sites like YouTube.
- Built-In Microphone & Professional-Class Audio XLR Terminals
-
In addition to a high-performance internal microphone, the
FDR-AX1 features two external XLR jacks for connecting external
microphones that can also be used to record superior-quality audio
together with your movies. You can also mix audio from recordings made
using the internal microphone and externally connected microphones,
respectively.
- Three ND Filters & Five Paint Functions for Expressive Cinematic Looks
-
The FDR-AX1 features three ND filters for adjusting the amount
of light entering the image sensor from the lens. There are also four
filter settings: Clear, 1/4 filter, 1/16 filter and 1/64 filter. These
filters and settings give users the ability to match shooting
conditions, as well as adjust the shutter speed and aperture even on
bright, sunny days. There are also five paint functions (white balance,
gamma, detail, skin detail, matrix) that can be combined and adjusted in
the paint menu to create expressive movie styling such as cinematic
looks.
- Seven Assignable Buttons & Three Independent Control Rings
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The FDR-AX1 was designed with two start/stop buttons. One is
located on the side of the camera grip, while the other is located on
the handle. This affords ease-of-use while shooting. The handle also
features a zoom button that enables convenient access while shooting
from low angles. There are seven assignable buttons as well, which can
be programmed with functions that enable users to quickly access them
without using menus. Assign functions include: Marker, Zebra, Peaking,
Focus Magnifier, Auto Exposure Level, SteadyShot, Color Bars, Rec Lamp
[F], Rec Lamp [R] and more. Having seven assignable buttons will allow
you to adjust to varying shooting conditions on-the-fly. There are also
three manual control rings on the camera for focus, iris and zoom.
- Zebra, Peaking, Center Marker & Guide Frame
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Shooting tools such as Zebra, Peaking, Center Marker and Guide
Frame are designed to assist you in shot setup. They'll help you get the
cinematic expression you are after. Zebra highlights overly bright
areas with stripes in the LCD and viewfinder. This feedback helps users
adjust brightness and prevent whiteout, especially on the subject.
Peaking simplifies focusing by highlighting in the LCD and viewfinder
the areas most sharply in focus. Users can finely adjust the peaking
level and choose white, red, yellow or blue peaking to clearly contrast
with the subject. By making it easier to know where the shot is in
focus, this feature helps users achieve the desired manual focus
setting. Determine the center of your image at a glance using the Center
Marker feature in the LCD or viewfinder, while the Guide Frame works as
a guide for aligning horizontal and vertical lines.