Sony PXW X70, A Cameraman's Review | Test Footage

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This isn't a 'first impression' or 'box opening' review. Here you'll get to see footage in the rain, overcast and sun, interior test shots, interview set-ups, walking shots, tracking shots, extreme telephoto hand-held, including digital extender (which was impressive) as well as a side by side definitive comparison with the Sony HXR NX30 in regards to the active mode stabilisation on both cameras. This isn't all posh footage. It's run 'n gun as many of you may use it. That said, the capabilities of this relatively inexpensive 1" sensor camera capable of 50mbps to shoot amazing quality footage is well within your grasp.

[@rockrecordreport7136]

7 years old and this footage still holds up with the best of them. Great camera with obviously a rather skilled user.

[@saikopiratos]

i admit this is one of the most unique reviews ive seen on youtube, thanks.

[@LastGamer]

You are the best. I bought my nx-30 a while ago due to your review now I am about to upgrade to 4K with the 70. I run a very successful channel and the picture is thanks to you :) 🙏

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

Well done to you!!

[@matt22blaster]

This is the best review I've ever seen of anything on KZbin. I watch a lot of reviews. Thank you for taking the time to do this.

[@UnitedSoundVideo]

For those looking for an incredible easy way to manual white balance your Sony PXW-X70 by using an assigned button push please read: Please go to your menu, others, assign button, choose assign 3 (the picture profile button since it's right next door to WHT BAL), choose WB set. Go to camera's manual / auto mode next to EVF & make sure you're in MANUAL, find a white surface, hit WHT BAL, choose A or B with scroll wheel next to your menu button, then hit button 3 (picture profile) while in the white and bingo, you're manually white balanced. The lambs have stopped screaming.

[@RNickeyMouse]

This is some of the best test footage I've seen

[@Larbaud2000]

One more comment ! This is a very good review. You're a great professionnal and a very kind man to share all this with your natural, quiet, John-Wayne-style. I bought a X70 and tomorrow I have my first big shooting : the launching of a very famous gastronomic guide. I'm a little bit nervous. Maybe I'll dare to show you my movie. Thanks

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

+Astrapi Bezrjkisao Good luck. Sure, send it along when you're done. Also, I suggest you subscribe to the Video Whisperer blog (linked in the description above) where you'll find lots of useful information.

[@NickPearsonMD]

perfect review. no meaningless rambling, facts and specs checked PRIOR to the review, having used the cameras in a variety of environments... wish every review included this stuff

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

Thanks Nick. Never understood those 'box opening' reviews. If I wanted to see a box opening, I'd go to the grocery store.

[@pathegartyfilmssongs9487]

Excellent review thank you. I have the x70 with 4k and it is amazing. I make short films and documentary (some 30min or more) No intention of upgrading my PXW-X70. Thanks again.

[@JustinGladden]

I appreciate the time you took to do this review. You're not talking about yourself or showing off your gear, you're not screaming into your microphone and you actually showed decent footage comparing the X70 to its cousin. So hard to find reviews like yours.

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

Thanks Jason, Ironically I started doing reviews (I only did the NX30 and X70) because I was annoyed by all the other reviews for the reasons you covered. I've been a cameraman all my life. When I want to buy a camera I want to know what it does. I don't care about personalities, 'opening the box' or a list of what you can read yourself on the camera spec sheet.

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

someone asked me about image quality with the X70 in comparison with another Sony camera that degrades the image quality. Sorry, I lost the comment to spam by hitting the wrong button. Anyway, amazingly, the image quality is virtually identical to the NX30 which uses a gyro stabilized lens for active mode. The X70 is pure image processing. I don't see any degrade at all, even though I expected to. The image processing is first class and probably helped by the 1" sensor and 4K electronics.

[@Muraz70]

[@andrewjones-productions]

Quite frankly, I feel your footage is far more valuable than the 'Three Glass Artisans' filmed in Otaru, Hokkaido although that footage is also stunning as you say. This is perhaps the best review on the X70 I have seen. I was at the Inter Bee Show held in Makuhari Messe, Chiba last week and Sony were saying that the firmware upgrade to 4K would be with us by June of next year 'at the latest'. Originally, they were quoting a January, February point, but that seems to have been delayed along with the firmware upgrades promised to a whole slew of cameras this year. Whether they have hit a technical glitch or have decided to wait for an unexpected technological development that will benefit all will be interesting to see.

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

Thanks. Well those kind of shoots are done with a crew and a whole entourage of important looking people with clipboards and too little to do. I shudder to remember. That's why I like run 'n gun and why I wrote the book about it (how to pack a whole crew and kit into a couple cases you can carry yourself). Thanks for the tip on the upgrade. Don't hold your breath ;-)

[@Gott6666]

Poor bird. Nice footage.

[@audionerds360]

Great review. After six years still a good camera.

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

Thanks UnitedSoundVideo for the useful comment (below) on using an assign button for manual white balance. (for some reason I wasn't able to reply directly under your comment)

[@ucheucheuche]

Thank you, and so much. Three Glass Artisans, I will watch next.

[@TheMrBennito]

you are one of the best reviewers on YT, informative and I like your understated tempo. Subscribed. Still have to give it some more consideration before making final choice between nx30 and x70.

[@MichaelMaardt]

If U read this: I had the X70 for some years, but suddenly it stopped working. I talked with pro service people in Denmark (they repair cameras for TV channels). They guessed that the mainboard was gone (price 800Euro) and they charge 100 Euro per hour, so I had to discard it. Price was more than 2.000 Euro ex VAT. Now I have the sony AX53 and it is also fine for my purpose - filming my self face, speak to camera I call it.

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

It never even occurred to me that it would ever break. Mine seems to be immortal.

[@MichaelMaardt]

@@TheVideoWhisperer Lucky U, shit happens

[@thepaintedsock]

Great to see these side by side. Nice compare. I can detect some slight stutter on the NX 30 during movement, which the PXW is smoother, but the PXW has some subtle amateur pixelation during tracking. They are both a step up from vlogging camcorders, and maybe ok for sport, but I don't think suitable for action with smooth transitions. I wouldn't want to use these for music videos, short movies or anything production level beyond still capture.

[@ericdfranklin71]

They both are well put together. The NX30 seems to have a warmer tone while the X70 is more on the cooler side and more cinematic. I guess I just have that eye to truly see the difference. Being a photographer and videographer pays off.

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

Eric Franklin unlike the NX30, however, you can go into the menu and change or even custom build a color space

[@fernandozamora5338]

what camera did you use to interview yourself?

[@silentwitness536]

The X70 has a massive 1 inch chip. Its the best camera for lowlight shots Ive ever seen on a HD camcorder. I couldnt see any "degrade" of image on it. Whoever said that has never used one.

[@huyked]

17:00 That is amazingly stable. The rest of the handheld footage is also amazing. Crazy good.

[@werunwild]

Beautiful shots! Excellent Review. Highly considering this camera for wildlife.

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

Very capable, but check into its update which is even better (Z90)

[@z20000z]

I really enjoyed your review. So well done! Wonderful lighting, exposure, sound and your calm demeanor. You even dressed professionally. It is so nice to see a working pro do a review like this, not just someone looking for a bunch of subscribers. I approach my video shoots much like you do as far as lighting, shooting, etc. I am usually a solo shooter as well, so I may pick up your book. Anyway, thank you so much for this information. I will be renting this camera soon and this certainly helps me! From the southern USA.

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

Thank you! Hey, just get the book. Best $5 or so you'll spend. Check out the reviews. And good luck in any case! Cheers, Joe

[@z20000z]

@@TheVideoWhisperer You're welcome Joe! I will pick up your book and thank you for the good wishes! Best Regards, Vic

[@geireplekake820]

For those of you who didnt notice, you can do cross-eye stereoview to get a really cool 3d effect with the footage of the two cameras!

[@n0gsy]

Thankyou for your marvellous reviews. They prompted me to buy firstly the nx30, then later on the x70.

[@overlord580]

PXW-X70 Firmware V2.0 Upgrade includes chargeable element and will be available June 2015 New Features & Improvements: Support for 4K (QFHD) Recording (optional) This 4K recording update provides support for QFHD shooting at 30p/25p/24p, allowing the X70 to capture scenes with stunning quality and at high resolution*. Furthermore, for projects finalized in HD, 4K recording greatly expands the creative possibilities by enabling digital panning, camera-shake correction and other post-production effects. NOTE: 4K recording requires purchase of the 4K Upgrade License (CBKZ-X70FX). Format Resolution Wrap Quality Frame Rate Bit Rate XAVC-L 3840x 2160 MXF 4:2:08bit 29.97p 60Mbps 23.98p 60Mbps 25p 60Mbps*We are looking to support a higher bit-rate recording mode than 60 Mbps for 3840x2160 XAVC-L in the future. Proxy Recording Proxy recording supports the use of a low-bit-rate video file in place of an XAVC-format, high-bit-rate file with the same timecode. The low-bit-rate proxy file, being smaller in size, can be used in many ways to increase efficiency. For example, the smaller file can be more easily transmitted to remote locations, while editing is greatly facilitated by the use of the smaller file, which is replaced at the completion of editing with the high-bit-rate file). FTP Transfer This feature supports FTP file transfers on the PXW-X70, allowing content files recorded with the XAVC Proxy Recording feature, and other content files shot in XAVC (4K/HD) and AVCHD formats, to be sent via the Internet for remote storage on an FTP server). Streaming This feature allows images to be streamed live from the PXW-X70 for viewing at a remote location. Data transfer rate, specified by two image quality menu settings (9Mbps and 3Mbps), can be selected to suit the network environment being used. Wired LAN Connection When wireless LAN is unavailable, this feature allows the PXW-X70 to be connected to the Internet over a wired connection via separately available USB adapter cable VMC-UAM2 and Network adaptor CBK-NA1R which is included in CBK-NA1 Network Adaptor Kit, allowing files to be streamed or transferred by FTP. 4K Upgrade License “CBKZ-X70FX” CBKZ-X70FX Upgrade License enables 4K recording on PXW-X70. Please note CBKZ-X70FX is an optional item that will be available for purchase soon. Firmware version 2.0 is also required for use of the Upgrade License. PXW-X70 V2.0 Firmware will be downloadable here in June 2015

[@steveraymond2298]

Thank you. I appreciated your approach to this review, and will purchase your book, "Run and Gun Videography." I am the producer and host of a public access show through a small rural station and they have four of the PXW-X70's. I am now learning this camera to be able to shoot footage myself on location.

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

Thank you Steve, and good luck with the X70. As to the book, I'm sure you will enjoy it. I hope you will remember to leave a review. Seems most people don't anymore. Cheers, Joe

[@avarmadillo]

Joe, your reviews are the best, because they are thorough and pull no punches. I have actually purchased and used the X70, so I was really keen to hear your review. "Keen!" Gad, I'm sounding like a John Bull. Anyway, I'm curious about a few things. First, your "interview" shots the facial skin tones, textures, etc. looked great--the facial images and skin tones were gorgeous. You don't need 4K with footage like that. So, since shooting talking head shots I was particularly interested in what, if any, special settings you used---such as picture profile settings? Next, when I first used FCPX I was frustrated I could not shoot XAVC at the start because I could find no means of transcoding. But, I downloaded Catalyst Browse and it worked great--even though you must do one shot at a time. It was a little tricky, but I learned to use it with relative quickness and was able to process .mov files in pro res. It also works very well for colour editing. I will say, unfortunately, Sony does not include an instruction manual--or so it seems. They do, but you have to look around for it. Once you figure out how to transcode XAVC LongGOP the footage is more easily ingested by FCPX and edits better. I've put up a few videos I've shot and I've been impressed with the result. But I'm not as happy with the talking head shots, and I really have to be careful about noise in the image. If you want I'll go through the steps to transcode XAVClongGOP footage (or any other XAVC footage). But I'd love to hear about how you did your interview shots and if you used any programs. I have recorded some Ninja 2 footage off the sensor, and that goes straight in FCPX in pro res .mov codec. It looks great, and I think it edits better. I can't tell a lot of difference in image quality between the .mov codec and the AVCHD, but if I did a lot of grading I might say it grades better. I'm not advanced enough to say that. Okay, there's more but I'll let it rest and hope you have a moment to response. Again, your reviews are great. The kind of practical information and straight talk, voice of presuppositions and bias, is not all that easy to come across. That's why I've subscribed to your video blogs.

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

I too successfully used the Catalyst program successfully earlier. Something just bombed out last night. But it would be REALLY helpful if you were to share what you've found out about it on the blog so it's there for a record. As to the interviews--nothing special. No programs. I try to light the important ones when I have time. There's a chapter in the book about that, but controlling subject to background contrast is an important part of it; easy to do on a set with a crew, but in corporate shooting with 1-3 soft lights, there's a step of controlling what's hitting the background (either ambient-wise, overhead or other lights or even your own spill light) that most people don't bother with. I optimise it as best I can with the time I have, but basically the objective is to separate the subject from the background with a contrast ratio of at least 3:1--then set your key and backlight. Fill is usually adequate using the ambient light in the room, but can be increased with a bounce card or additional light whilst being careful to let it spill all over the background again.

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

***** Sorry, no idea. I'm waiting for the Apple plug-in (if it ever comes!) before I start messing with XAVC.

[@jeffmara]

I have a nx30 already and I want to pick up a second camera. I believe that this uses the Mulit interface shoe. This will be used for a lot of run and gun stuff on full auto. Do you think this will be just as good as the nx30 on full auto?

[@DanceShowFilming]

Another great review Joe. Looks a great camera and I just wish it did 4K out of the box, I would have bought it tomorrow. Your hand held stuff is usually super smooth anyway as your an excellent cameraman (I remember that cricket training footage you did with me, very impressive), but with these cameras it was like being on a steadicam pilot! But without the hassle! Loved the Belvoir castle footage, a great test for any camera and the results make the video even more spectacular. Wish you did a review like this on the Panasonic X1000 4K camera. It has everything going for it hardware wise, except a tiny sensor and people are reporting the image is a letdown. A review from you on that would clear it up one way or the other. Anyway, thanks for taking the time on this and I hope your video gets as much attention as your previous one! All the best Gary Greenwood

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

Thanks Gary--answered you on the blog but will say it again here...don't think I'll be reviewing any more cameras unless the manufacturer just gives me the camera to keep--providing it's one I'm likely to want to keep. Providing you select your reviewers well, THAT would be smart marketing. The cost of the camera is nothing compared to the potential for sales. Duh?

[@robertlewis6174]

Very nice review format and useful tests. I'm also happy to hear someone against the whole "cinematic" emperors-new-clothes myth. I think any skeptic who complains that a 1" sensor camcorder doesn't have shallow enough DOF must not be shooting interesting enough environments in the first place.

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

Agreed. As I said in my (soon to be published!) book, I doubt there was a director in history who attributed 'depth of field' to cinematic excellence. But lighting, yes, you do hear them talk about their lighting design...and many other things, but never depth of field. I'm not down on shallow depth of field of course, but I do talk about how that aspect was sort of a happy accident as faster lenses and films were developed in the early days so that they could come in from the great outdoors in sunny Hollywood and start shooting indoors on sets.

[@robertlewis6174]

TheVideoWhisperer Good point. And your video showed that this Sony cam has at least enough DOF control to bring attention to the subject, which is the most important thing after all. Can definitely see the merits of this model over the smaller sensor Canon equivalent (XF205).

[@avarmadillo]

I really want your book once it's ready. You gotta let us know!

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

Don't worry about that! But we can worry about when I'm going to be able to get around to it. I think 15 Dec is the current target.

[@StevenBLawrence52]

Thanks for the well-done, practical review. My son recently let me know about this camera. I am currently shooting with a Sony CX700 and CX900. This camera definitely has more pro features, such as XLR inputs, SDI output and camera profiles, along with all the things that you mentioned.

[@Grizzlife]

Very nice video and answered most of my questions. Im sold on this camera for what I want. Thanks

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

Cheers!

[@paulstevens2839]

Awesome image quality with this camera! Looks very cinematic / filmlike. Probably the best bang for your buck for student film makers. You needed to do night shots with this camera.

[@withersfrance]

What an excellent and sensible review. Food for thought...

[@landmanmediaphoto8513]

Great video sir and I just ordered the digital version of your book and look forward to reading it!

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

Thank you Landman...I hope you will give it a review on Amazon when you've read it.

[@landmanmediaphoto8513]

You're welcome fine sir and I sure will!

[@Tore_Lund]

Are you on auto white balance on all you example shots? Seems Auto WB nails it outside, but indoors and under florescents, not so good?

[@schwarzemilch]

Thank your for this helpul and detailed review! For run n gun your pictures looked amazingly well! I really like what the camera offers in case of depth of field! I don´t know if there are any comparable cameras at this price where you can get that more filmlike look. I think this will probably be the purchase I make. Is the AVCHD compatible with FCP 7? Couldn´t get used to the new Final Cut yet.

[@Gulliveck]

Thanks for the comprehensive review! One thing I would like to correct - you said that consumer camcorders do not have ND filter - this is largely not true. Most modern consumer camcorders have ND filters, which are gradually close the light path when aperture is closed down. These ND filters cannot be controlled manually, but again this is usually not required: they keep the lens at about F4-F5.6, or in case of many Panasonic models, around F2.8. In fact, I think it would be nice if the X70 had an automatic mode for ND filter.

[@pitbox6497]

Nice review. I think I'll pick one up if I can ever afford it, and the 4K upgrade is good at a later date for not having to buy a whole new camera later down the line. You have a very soothing voice too, and loved the outdo line ;)

[@doublejnyc]

Great looking footage. Thank you. What was the frame rate? It looked more video-ish vs. filmic. Seems like 60p. And was it indeed progressive? Or interlaced.

[@lindybeige]

According to the Sony website, it has a 13.2mm CCD, not one inch.

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

You may have been looking at a different camera. From the Sony website PXW X70 page under 'overview'" The PXW-X70 features a 1.0" type Exmor™ R CMOS Sensor with a resolution of 20 megapixels. The sensor, which is even larger than the Super 16mm film frame, delivers high resolution and fantastic low light performance, as well as offering more depth of field control as demanded by today’s diverse shooting requirements.

[@MeetupvideoUK]

6 years later SONY's website: The PXW-X70 incorporates a 1.0 type Exmor R CMOS sensor, which is approximately the same size as a Super 16mm film frame, to achieve high resolution, high sensitivity, low noise, and wide dynamic range. 😆

[@matthewcameraman1648]

Best Camera reviews ever, very informative and useful stuff.

[@weichoongoh3241]

The best review of the camera I've seen. Thank you sir.

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

Thank you.

[@suzannegore]

Did many of you upgrade to 4k..is it worth it??

[@davideofilm]

Compared to the Sony PMW EX1 parameters of the x70 peak on paper! Watch videos at weddings since I deal with, whether it be coupled with practice? If so when it replaced! Thanks in advance for your reply.

[@JorgeHernanArcilaA]

Un saludo amigo necesito una información, tengo esta cámara pero no he logrado comprar el software para ampliar a 4 K podria informarme donde consigo la actualización gracias.

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

Victor, I think it must be more a factor of shutter speed than the sensor. There must be an ideal shutter speed for shooting props. Maybe someone here will pipe up on that.

[@mikepuckett]

Thanks for the review. Am planning on purchasing one and this review answered all my questions. Great info!

[@williamself1949]

Thanks for this very useful review Joe! This was a HUGE help.

[@kipling1957]

The X-70 is an almost perfect compact pro spec video cam with a great codec. But what Sony need to do is take the X-70 and put it in a cage with the new RX10 II and let nature take its course. I'd so much prefer that RX10 II lens (a bit wider and and constant f2.8 aperture Zeiss - wonderful!). The new fast data acquisition 1" BSI sensor for better slo-mo / fast shutter looks like a nice step up as well.

[@Dutch3DMaster]

TheVideoWhisperer: Did you notice any line-skipping or pixel-binning in the Full HD format? (XAVC or AVCHD does not matter). At first I thought it had something to do with my editing program (Lightworks), but it also does this on the SDI-output (we use four of these in a multi-camera setup). It seems that a good scaling algorhythm is left out and so they just use line groups (like 1 and 2) and skip a few, causing sharp contrasts to look jagged or aliased (it really looks butt-ugly when viewed in Full HD). I was really enthousiastic about these little camera's, but this way of sensor-readout is something that has damped the enthousiasm a lot.

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

+Dutch3DMaster Hmm, I always shoot in full HD (though now doing some 4K) and never noticed such a problem.

[@Dutch3DMaster]

+TheVideoWhisperer : Actually I was about to include a video snapshot of the problem in my first message but I forgot, so here it is. (By the way, neat response time!) imgur.com/3V03zGT

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

+Dutch3DMaster Don't know quite what to tell you. What you're talking about is practically invisible. Two things: 1) As you point out, that background is quite over-exposed. Try exposing a scene correctly and see what you get. 2) If your scene is so uninteresting that you think an audience will be drawn into such microscopic minutia you're looking at it the wrong way. Put the other way around, your job is to make your content so interesting that even a number of technical flaws wouldn't be enough to throw your audiences attention onto technical rendition. The order of importance in ANY art is: 1) Getting the intended message across with clarity and emotional impact, 2) Technical rendition. Message always trumps technical. That said, you achieve number one while getting number two as high as possible. As soon as you start considering number 2 more important than number 1, you've lost the most important part of your vision.

[@simongentry]

thank you - not shot in 4k obviously. do you think it's too light for a steadycam/glidecam? the blacks seem less concentrated on the x70 - is that the codec or the need for an ND?

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

Yeah--I've got 4K on it, but never use it. Yes, too light for a Glidecam/Steadicam (if you're talking about the full-sized versions. But I got it so as to not have to mess with extra stabilisation equipment. Everything you see here was hand-held. It's got built-in ND filters and even prompts you which one to drop in, but on this shoot I'm afraid I wasn't paying attention. Some of the exteriors were shot without ND when should have been. The smaller apertures may have bounced around short wave-lengths and washed it out a bit. I think it's sweet spot is about f 5.6 which is what the ND prompters seem to aim for.

[@TheVictor0911]

Thanks, I think your right, I am just concerned about the shutter factor, not that it is a big thing but we are shooting a lot around aviation and the the props do funny things with the cmos, I still like the x70 for the sharpness and color balance.

[@piratesheep3303]

Hello. I'd like to ask a question about this MPEG upgrade license. I must start by saying I'm not very knowledgeable on the technical aspects of a camera. What I would like to know; for someone who is most likely only going to shoot 'Full HD' (1080), what does this MPEG upgrade add? From my understanding of the X70's manual I see that only XAVC HD can film 1080/60 with 50Mbps, and AVCHD can film 1080/60 with a maximum of 28Mbps. Does the MPEG upgrade allow AVCHD to record 1080/60 with 50Mbps? Is that what the upgrade is basically about? Allowing better 1080 quality for AVCHD filming? thanks for your time

[@silentwitness536]

The only upgrade I know about is the one you pay to make it 4k.

[@cornerstoneproductio]

Just now watched your review... Totally enjoyed it, great job great shots. Also subscribed to your channel, currently we are using Canon HFG 40's and pretty satisfied with the results, however the Sony PXW X70, very nice thank you!

[@ronaldwolf2599]

Well done video. Curious, if you shoot in 4K, do you edit in 4K, or down convert to 1080p, and then proceed? 4K takes up a ton of space, and takes forever to down convert. Thanks again for posting. Ron

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

If you put your 4k onto a 1080p timeline (thus converting it), there's no point to 4k. Instead create proxies on import (lo res version) and edit that on your 4k timeline. Your original will still be in the library and you'll have to make sure to switch back to 'original' before exporting. Anything you did to the proxies will be applied to your original footage. Research the 4k workflow for FCXPX. I'm sure there are better explanations than mine to be found.

[@ktesm]

amigo, no se si me entiendes pero que perfíl de color usaste en el plano donde aparece la mujer? saludos

[@jamskof]

so refreshing to not see some 24year old telling me how to do cool transitions and be more "cinematic" thankyou sir!

[@Finchspielberg]

With the 4K sensor allowing extra information, it would be easier to shoot telephoto for cinematic shots without worrying about too much shakiness like you showed. Plus I think having just a little bit of noise is almost like the film grain you see in movies. I'm looking forward to getting this some time for some short film projects.

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

Any noise was just gain applied in automatic mode. Probably those interior castle shots you were talking about. If you're ever forced to use gain, there's a great tool called Neat Video you can use to take it out.

[@mrbrakelol]

Thanks for this video. I noticed on this video and a few other people's examples that subjects skin gets waxy and ugly. Any idea why?

[@kipling1957]

Thanks so much for this - the best "real world" review I have seen. I'm in line to get this camera in the New Year. My only comment/ observation is that in most of the shots when comparing the NX30 I actually liked the tonal gradation better in the latter. A few people have said this camera can blow highlights easily if you are not too careful, and this was very clear here, in the sky shots for instance. On the the other hand you can probably play around with more extensive tone-curve / profile settings on the X70 to compensate, compared to the NX30 (not sure if that's the case). I did not notice grain as being an issue at all (for me at least) even at +9dB - but I haven't been spoiled with large DSLR sensors, so it's all relative I guess. Gotta love the DOF for interviews.

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

Yes, it's true you can create custom profiles for the X70 if you're inclined to that sort of thing. But I have to admit, the NX30 is pretty smart in the way it addresses whatever you point it at. Don't know about that 'blowing highlights' comment though. That's easier with the NX30 because of it's lack of ND filters. Under very bright conditions that aperture will shut down to f22 (or whatever it goes to) and you'll get diffraction in the lens which blows your highlights. Can't do that on the X70 if you use your NDs and the camera handily tells you when to do so. (but you do have to notice that's it's telling you! In that case I was a bit pre-occupied and never did drop in the ND--or I might have dropped in a 1 when it was asking for a 2. Don't remember) Anyway, I'm still learning the camera myself. Got a little spoiled with the NX30. This one lets you do a lot more with very accessible controls and menu options. Thanks for watching!

[@kipling1957]

TheVideoWhisperer Thanks again - I am anxious get one of these, and this review has only helped confirm it as probably the best choice for what I want to do.

[@johndavidgibbs]

TheVideoWhisperer I'm just getting started with video to expand my corporate training skills and pursue some personal projects likely including indoor shots without additional lighting. I'm wondering whether the more manual control of the X70 would provide a better learning experience than the more automated NX30. Balancing that is your valuable perspective on focusing on the story telling rather than the equipment-and I do need to learn to tell stories with video. I'd be interested in your readers' perspectives too.

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

John David Gibbs The X70 would be a better learning experience. For one, it has the same full intelligent auto system as the NX30. But you can more easily select one or more aspects to control manually. By a button push you can, for example, manually control iris (while shutter speed, gain, focus and colour temp remain automatic), or you can select iris and gain to control manually while the rest adjust automatically, etc. Same with focus. You can choose to manually focus while the rest is automatic, etc. Part of that learning should be a quick study on the relationships of all these things, particularly exposure (which is a combination of iris, gain and shutter speed) so that you know when to control what in any particular circumstance.

[@jkiner]

Thank you soo much for doing this video I have been searching for any type of updated version the Sony cam but could not really compare to the NX-30 review you made and I am actually buying one because of the image stabilization. Now I have to decide I like the natural lighting this X70 has but it is 4k. Now I can make a decision but thanks again for educating me on these 2 models

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

+Jason Kiner You're welcome. The 4K is optional on the X70.

[@MsNavroze]

I have been using this camera since a few weeks. Shooting on AVCHD and it is matching my FS100. This review is very good and simple to understand. I would like to know on what mode STEADY shot was put for all the walking shots

[@SuperRtrtrtr]

I really enjoyed your review of the nx30. It's too bad you don't test all top brand camcorders. You're the Ken Rockwell of camcorder reviewers. I'm very interested in the HXR-NX100. Shame on Sony for not loaning you new products. Beta RIP.

[@saintseiyaliveaction]

Very useful review! What do you think about this camera vs the Panasonic dvx200? I know they have different price and even a little bit different target, but what about a comparison? thanks

[@EdmediaDeyerlerEric]

I also use the PXW-X70 as a run and gun-Cam, but I also use my great PMW400 and HM700 due to DSLR-Cams like Canon EOS 550, one thing is the sound with phantom-powered Microphones, thats sounds a little bit noisy.

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

You mean noisy on the X70 or the DSLRs? I presume you mean DSLRs which are not great on audio. My X70 is quiet on phantom powered mics. That's the problem with DLSRs--they were never designed to be video cameras. Thus the rush of new large sensor video cameras to meet the demand for shallow depth of field.

[@EdmediaDeyerlerEric]

TheVideoWhisperer No, Input on DSLRs like EOS 550 with Magic Lantern with no noise, on PXW-X70 you can hear noise when you switch to phantom-power, only with -20 dB it is a only a little bit better.

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

ed-media Eric Deyerler - SchwabacherInfoTV Ok, thanks.

[@AgendaVideoProdns]

Thanks for the review, very good primer on the PXWX70. I've shot with the NX30 & NX70, both really good cameras. My eyes aren't as good as they once were and I was wondering... does the X70 have a focus-assist similar to the NX30/70... with image outlining in the viewfinder / flipscreen? I'm guessing it does but had to ask. Also.... I didn't hear you mention any real negatives about the X70 other than it not being as sensitive in low-light as the NX30... have you any other thoughts (Con) after your post that you'd like to share? Thanks again.

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

It does find faces and puts boxes around them like the NX30. Plus you can tell the camera which is the priority face. Someone in the comments either here or on the blog tells how you can change priority while you're shooting using the rocker. As to negatives, I don't really like the manual colour temp system. Specifically, even though you can adjust it in one mode step by step in 100 degree steps, the changes don't reflect live in the viewfinder as they do in the little NX30 and other cameras. That must be an easy firmware fix, so I'm not worried about it and tend to use auto colour temp most of the time anyway.

[@AgendaVideoProdns]

TheVideoWhisperer Thanks again for the reply! BTW...I was wondering if you had any progress with getting the XAVC-Long GOP / MXF codec to play nice with your NLE? I understand that SONY may have some camera firmware updates as well as NLE Plug-ins to help with this as well as their Catalyst software. Thanks in advance!

[@WhitneyMediaProductionsSanford]

Thanks for the wonderful review! That handheld work is top notch. I was actually wondering if you were using some kind of stabilizer to get what you got. Important question though to me...with the depth of field interviews; were you wide open? What was your f-stop? Thank you again.

[@smartbizwebmedia5922]

( ? ) Does the zoom rocker allow for easing or ramped starts and stops? I used the HDR-CX900 for a while and found the abrupt starts/stops of zoom motion made footage look amateur. A smooth & feathered zoom is where it's at with pro production.

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

yes, but the rocker on the handle (not the big one on the lens) works better for subtle easing in or out in my experience.

[@hypnosiscenternyc]

what camera are you using to video yourself in this one .... nice clarity, definition.

[@sk8forlifeuntilidie1]

Very good review. I wish companies provided you with cameras.

[@588ta]

what do you think of Sony nex-ea50m for event video

[@techguyMD]

They changed the ND auto/manual switch on the back from the AX100? On the AX the switch above the ND selector switch changes the ND from manual to auto which will allow the camera to automatically set the ND filters or prompt you to set them in manual mode. It's not for setting full auto or manual for any other settings.

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

yes, the NDs are only manually switched on the X70

[@techguyMD]

TheVideoWhisperer Pretty cool but could get confusing if using both the AX100 and the X70.

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

Michael Dontigney It's hard sometimes to figure out how Sony manages such brilliance and idiocy at the same time.

[@sb4photos]

Great video. Thanks. Question. Did u tweak any color profiles? I just bought one and use to ex3 Cheers

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

No. I'm not that sophisticated ;-) But when I get some time I do plan on looking into it. There's a link from William Ridenour down there with a profile he uses and an instructional video he made about it. That will probably be my introduction.

[@sb4photos]

TheVideoWhisperer hey hey.. found that vid.. profile works a treat in low light.. the clear optics zoom is pretty crazy.. the one thing i noticed is you can't mix audio.. input one splits into stereo but u can't run the camera internal with a input.. any work around you know of? so running l and r channels from a desk I'm assuming you can't assign them as a left channel and right channel

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

***** That's good to know (about the colour profile for low light).As to audio, it's either your XLR inputs or your internal mic, not both.

[@suzannegore]

Great video thanks for taking the time to do this for all of us! Did you say this shoots avchd in 50mbps? or does it only shoot this in xavchd. I have just sent back the panasonic hcx1000 poor in low light so may purchase the x70. Thanks

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

Good question. I just checked the manual for that and yes, the 50mbps is in XAVC mode. In AVCHD the highest rate will be 28mbps.

[@suzannegore]

Hi thanks for that. Was this video shot in 1080 50p avchd? Looks good. Do you know if edius 6 edits xavchd? Many thanks

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

suzanne gore Yes, 1080 50p. Most NLEs will import AVCHD natively. If not, there's lots of free software that will transcode it quickly without quality loss.

[@zoryon]

Thank you very much for the time you took for making this tests. I saw a review that left me on doubt regarding the active mode stabilization. One should turn of IS when on tripod, but do you think that the pxw x70 would benefit from a monopod?

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

I finally thought of one good reason: If you have to do an interview an after game interview with a 6'8" baseball player, it might be handy to have a monopod. No wait. Monopods don't come that tall. So no actually.

[@RcrdFrd]

TheVideoWhisperer I wonder what about in a concert using 2 cameras. One on tripod, more or less fixes, and the other in monopod for mobility. Is the monopod redunctant for the image stabilization on this camera?

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

Ricardo Frade Ah. I see what you're asking. Yes, I'd say the monopod is redundant. I recently shot a concert myself using 4 cameras. NX30 hand held, Canon DSLR, Canon XHA2 (tape camera) and a GoPro. The other three, of course, were fixed. But the rest of the time I ran around like mad with the NX30 getting various close-ups and detail shots, side angles, stage angles, etc., but mainly coverage of the main performer. The idea is to make it look like a multi-camera shoot even though I was a lone shooter. A monopod would just get in your way. If I was to do the same thing again, I'd do the run around with the X70 and let the NX30 be a 5th camera locked off. I haven't edited this one yet, but if you look on this channel in the music section, you'll find 4 or 5 videos of Abi Moore and Maddie Rowland that were 3 camera shoots. You recognise all the NX30 hand-held stuff and you can see you won't need a monopod. The idea of the hand-held in that type of shoot is to literally run around like mad getting different angles. Not that you'll use them all, because there's still pacing and image size change to consider once you start editing. The more cameras, the easier it is. It's kind of tough with 2 and would be even tougher with 2. Next time I'll be using 5!

con que programa puedo editar con esta cámara

[@markirish37]

Joe, is your book available to buy yet? I can only see it on Kindle and download on amazon. I would prefare an actual book. Great review here.

[@maximme]

GREAT REVIEW systematic, informative, shows you are well prepared BEFORE you start recording. ONLY the mature and experienced people can do this. the younger ones jump here and there, hesitate before they start, hesitate after they start HAHAHA

[@MrErtunc]

This camera seems to have a manufacturing fault. I bought one about 8 months ago in London from JigSaw. I have used only a few times since then. I am not very happy with the auto focus and steady shot functions. And since yesterday when I took the camera out of its bag, I've been getting an error message E62:10. I have searched the Internet and found out that this is a common problem with the lens of this camera. I am in Istanbul now and I don't think they can fix it here. I paid 1,700 British pounds. I am very sad about it.

[@marvindavisjr.543]

Karl Ertunc what are u using now

[@silentwitness536]

I liked this camera, shot a corporate video with it, but one downside is that it feels flimsy. I'd recommend someone saving up to get the Sony Z150 instead, which feels really solid in your hands. By the way the X70 doesn't have 4k video right out of the box. You have to pay Sony around 500usd to get an upgrade patch to make it 4K. Once youve done that, when shooting 4k, it downgrades the X70 to shoot 420 video instead of 422. The Z150 gives you 4k right out of the box.

[@emavideo]

Thanks for the great review. Very helpful. I am still on Sony Ex1's I am sure the x70 does better and of course the depth of Field is great. Question, Does the camera allow you to set one audio channel for internal mic and the second channel with the XLR external input? Thanks Ed

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

No, when you're using the XLR inputs on the audio block, the system defaults to the audio block.

[@alocerverin2425]

I have the PXW X70 but my footage doesnt look this good for some reason, I Really need help!

[@avarmadillo]

Just to emphasize--I find the noise to not be a small problem. Of course, I'm comparing it to the EA50 and FS100, both bigger sensors.

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

EA50 has the same size sensor. I think you might be referring to the noise on the Belvior Castle interior shots which had +6 or +9db gain.

[@avarmadillo]

TheVideoWhisperer No, actually, I was referring to the noise I see in the backgrounds of videos I've shot with the X70. Unless backgrounds are well lit there's LOTS of noise--but not as much as some profile setting on the AGAF-100. I'm still experimenting with some picture profiles to see which produce the lowest noise. I think the EA50 sensor is larger than the X70, unless I've been mislead. I shoot most exclusively on Sony, and almost all are APS-C sensors. I don't think the X70 is that large, but much larger than the three sensor standard camcorder, that is why you can get some nominal depth of field. I know this: I get much shallower depth of field with the EA50 than the X70 with comparable settings. I shot my daughter last night with no profile, just WB and setting exposure and the footage looked pretty good. I'm not at the computer I use for video, but when I get there I'll prepare the way I transcode XAVC LongGOP to pro res.

[@TheVictor0911]

From the US, you are the best. my son and I are starting in video and you have help us so much. thanks again. Ps have you talked about the difference in 3 ccd and cmos. thanks

[@robbyredux1]

Great review. I was curious as to what fps you recorded the footage at. Otherwise, thanks for your insight on this camera.

[@willyferraz]

Hi, the Model with or without the 4k upgrade makes difference for digital zoom or stabilization system? The quality is the same? Great review. Congrats.

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

You know, I upgraded to 4K months ago and haven't even used it yet as a 4K camera. Shouldn't affect digital zoom or stabilisation though as they are independent of the recording. Someone else can correct me if I'm wrong.

[@georges8408]

I m thinking of buying this camera and I would appreciate a lot an answer to these 2 questions : a) I have read some bad comments about its Autofocus stability, what is your opinion ? b) How is the performance in low light (noise) becouse I will use it in low light conditions

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

autofocus good in well lit situations, particularly for facial recognition setting. Low light excellent. (high iso settings with little to no noise, depending how high. With extreme iso, any noise is easily removed in post with "Neat Video" noise reduction plugin.)

[@AboutFocusTV]

Many thanks certainly food for thought as am looking for a capable smaller camera at the moment. PS is that book of yours out yet ?

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

+AboutFocusTV yeah, it's been out almost a year now. www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00RTLEPTK

[@ennoidyam]

We just got one in and its setup is confusing to say the least -especially for a student still in school like me. Maybe you can help me out- My boss went out and record a bunch of stuff with it but cant view or edit any of the footage. That's because the format is MXF, which needs a separate converter/ player, which is an annoying extra step. So I would like to change the settings. What settings would I set the recording and audio modes on to get a file format that imports easily into Final Cut /Avid without having to convert or lose too much quality?

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

The format is AVCHD, not MXF. It natively imports and automatically transcodes in FCPX and most other NLEs. So what NLE are you using? If you have a problem, you need to be more specific if you want anyone to help you.

[@aughrim100]

Thank you Joe, class review, I'm now buying 3 x70 because of your review.....John Ireland.

[@bojantanasic221]

I know I'm a bit late. I saw this cam on ebay for sale and was thinking of getting it. I wanted to ask does this cam shoot 1080/24p. I like that dreamy film motion. Not a fan of 50/60

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

Afraid not. You can switch it to PAL and shoot 25 fps, but that's as close as you're going to get to 24.

[@bojantanasic221]

@@TheVideoWhisperer Thanks for your reply I've found a pdf manual for the x70 it does mention XAVC HD at different framerates also MPEG HD which supports 24. It could have been a firmware update in the meantime.

[@jdolan18]

Hi there. Do you know anything about the SDI output? What resolutions will it send out of that SDI port? Can it go to an SD switcher?

[@TheVideoWhisperer]

Jonathan Dolan Sorry, don't know off-hand and not near the camera or manual. (skiing in the French Alps. I know, it's rough but someone's got to do it. ;-)

[@michaeldeniserichardson5054]

Say Jim, who was that artist singing in your video? Enjoyed the video and the song.

[@simongentry]

is it me - or are the whites better on the x70?

[@videorec1]

how is the autofocus works well? thank you Marco