Sony PXW-X70 Pro's & Con's Review

[@ClarkdeBear]

This over a year old, but this is EXACTLY what I needed to see. Thank you!

[@OnlineVideoSolutions]

You're welcome. Still a very good camera, as is the AX100!

[@ClarkdeBear]

I saw somewhere this (PXW-X70) can be upgraded to 4K. Is that done through a firmware update?

[@OnlineVideoSolutions]

Yes you can upgrade to 4K, but it's a paid upgrade of about £250! If you need XLR input, SDI output, or a little more control of colour profiles, get the X70, but if you want a good 4K camera with similar features (apart from the above a few other smaller things), then the AX100 is a good option.

[@ClarkdeBear]

Thank you

[@KaplanMultimedia]

I have this camera and have enjoyed using it for a few months now but I think your review is spot on. Thanks for taking the time and effort to post this.

[@oscarmoreno7774]

Good review but a note about the audio controls: The ch1-ch2 option is for certain scenarios where you have a mono source going into channel one but yet you'd like that same mono source on channel 2 but at a lower volume level to avoid clipping. It's a way of insuring that you always have an audio source that has not clipped the levels which can be used in post to replace clipped sources. This is particularly useful in audio environments that can not be controlled.

[@SkillBuilder]

Fantastic review. Thanks for taking the time to do such a comprehensive job.

[@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.

[@kipling1957]

Fantastically comprehensive and very, very useful. Thanks for putting this up.

[@OnlineVideoSolutions]

kipling1957 You're welcome hope it helps.

[@mikharm]

Absolutely brilliant review, Rob. You guys in the UK definitely love the X70; this is the fourth excellent review of the X70 from brilliant reviewers all from the UK. I've just bought Joe Caneen's book, because of these reviews. If the (pure digital) image stabilization (maybe combined with some OSS in the lens) works great with 4K image, I definitely go for this camera before my daughter's university/academy graduation concert expected in May/June. Thank you so much for the great help. Miki

[@OnlineVideoSolutions]

Miklos Nemeth Thanks, lets hope the 4K upgrade comes soon and a low price... ;)

[@OnlineVideoSolutions]

The remote 2.5mm to Sony Micro USB cable is the Sony VMCAVM1 16.4cm Adapter Cable. Together with a Vivitar A/V to 2.5mm cable (2 way connection) it works with the Manfrotto Pan Handle Remote. Other people report that the Manfrotto 522AV Adapter cable works with other remotes, but I can confirm it DOES NOT WORK with the Manfrotto Pan Handle Remote. Hope that helps.

[@CHVMovieProduction]

Thanks Rob, for your swift response, will try to get the Sony VMCAVM1 16.4cm Adapter Cable. Best Regards from Cologne, Germany

[@WoodomainJeremyBroun]

Is there a push button feature for instant playback of last scene please? I thought I saw it flash by in the video. When I do talking heads its very important to do a quick replay to check footage while vocal chords are consistent!

[@OnlineVideoSolutions]

Yes you can assign a button to "Last Scene Review" and it will playback the entire last video clip recorded from start to finish. You can't choose how much of the last scene to playback.

[@WoodomainJeremyBroun]

OnlineVideoSolutions Thanks for that. One further question: I am currently using a Canon Legria HFS100 - a superb little camera and mostly for my woodworking KZbin channel. I wondered if the Sony PXW-X70 would be a good upgrade for better colour reproduction and easier editing in MP4 as well as getting better all round quality for BluRay DVDs? Its hard to know where everything is going with super fast streaming. Whether the AX100 would be a better chic but I don't like the domestic menu and it may not have the last scene instant playback.

[@OnlineVideoSolutions]

Woodomain - Jeremy Broun That's hard to answer, I've only used the Canon XA25 (probably a fair upgrade over the HFS100), and I consider the Sony better than that, because of the bigger sensor, shortcut buttons for vital functions, higher quality recording format (XAVC - currently needs Sony Catalyst Browse, which is free, and needed to decode the footage), and the 4K ready upgrade option coming later in 2015!

[@WoodomainJeremyBroun]

OnlineVideoSolutions Thanks

[@wideanglewhitetail5107]

Great review, thanks for taking the time!

[@thecollegemoneymom3124]

I have two X-70's and really like them. I also have an XA-25 which is excellent as well. Here is the most vexing problem I have found on both of our X-70's: If you have to start, then stop, then start rolling again in rapid order, the camera gets confused and locks up all functions. The only way to regain control of the camera is to pull out the power cord and remove the battery. When you plug everything back in and turn the camera back on it offers to "repair" your previously shot video. Scary! Once you answer "yes", then it goes through some sort of process and your video is saved. Whew! This has happened about 5 times so far, and we are training ourselves not to do anything too quickly. Here is the second most disturbing problem: The camera can spontaneously lose auto-focus if it thinks the contrast of the subject is insufficient. I need to use auto-focus frequently so I just try to out-think the camera's auto-focus ability. These problems have been reported to a real live human at Sony Repair here in the states.

[@OnlineVideoSolutions]

Interesting observations, I haven't used the camera much in either of the ways you mention, so it's good to get feedback in that regards, hopefully someone at Sony can replicate and confirm, and they issue a firmware update... A lot to all from Sony, but you never know...

[@thecollegemoneymom3124]

OnlineVideoSolutions Can you believe that the camera locked up again while shooting this morning? I don't think we pushed the roll button too quickly, but I really hope that was the reason! :-)

[@CHVMovieProduction]

Thanks for a great review, very helpful. I own the X70 since 0ne month. QUESTION, where did you get the remote adapter cable (Manfrotto 2.5mm to Sony Micro USB)? It's really disappointing that Sony went away from the commonly used 2.5mm remote control Standard. The Wifi remote via smartphone or tablet works great, however, when filming a 2 hours concert from a dolly tripod, I definately need the cabled remote from my Manfrotto control rod setup. Appreciate your response.

[@GaryGroves]

Rob, nice video. Where do you find the Head mannequin in your videos?

[@OnlineVideoSolutions]

+Gary Groves Here you go: www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Female-Mannequin-Dummy-Head-For-Wigs-Hat-Jewellery-Scarf-Sunglasses-Hair-Salon-/140869849250?ssPageName=ADME:X:RTQ:GB:1123

[@tommybrown9378]

Nice review Rob, thanks. Also Cape Town based, did you get it through Orms or Visual Impact?

[@ItsCWG]

Thanks, I'm based in London, UK so bought it here :)

[@tommybrown9378]

Oh sorry about that, thanks again, has made up my mind.

[@burtrudman]

Extremely valuable review.Many, many thanks!

[@dra11y]

Thank you for this in-depth review, Rob. How has your experience been with the "blown highlights" (pushed colors just before over-exposure such as cyan sky), the responsiveness of the focus/zoom ring, and ergonomics of mounting a shotgun (similar length to the Rode NTG-3) on this cam? Any chance you could comment? Thanks.

[@johnallnite6700]

excellent video, good to get some detail . be good if they made when rain resistant as well. when your outside and it starts raining you won't have to worry so much

[@Alexander-tj2dn]

When you talk about noise floor in 3.5mm input or SMAD-p3 adapter, you should show what you´are talking about.

[@OnlineVideoSolutions]

+Alex Curioso Yes I did have a rough edit of the difference, but somehow it didn't make it into the final edit. Sony basically said the noise floor is equivalent to the XLR input, just that the volume is slightly higher using the MI Shoe, so lower the MI-Shoe volume should produce equivalent noise.

[@Peteraddavideo]

That was a very good review. Accurate, fair and informative. Im happy with the camera good price and good value.

[@OnlineVideoSolutions]

Peter PhotoVideos Dambiec Thanks, it's a great little camera, and is now my B cam since getting the PXW-X200 which is my A Cam!

[@microbroadcast]

Thanks for this very comprehensive review. Much appreciated.

[@sarawutrukchat5414]

Great video and audio, thank you for making this video.

[@joekayaker101]

Great review! Very useful. Thanks! I can't believe Sony didn't include a standard 2.5mm control port.

[@OnlineVideoSolutions]

Joe Holt Yes, not sure why, maybe they're trying something different like the MI Shoe, but I'm not sure it's a good idea...

[@UKAirscape]

Excellent review. Great to have spotted that face-softening oddity, how weird. Are you aware the sound sync problem on the XA20/25 was sorted with a firmware update? v1.0.4.0

[@OnlineVideoSolutions]

I was not aware of the sound sync issues being fixed on the Canon cameras as I no longer have or use them, but I will pass that onto a colleague who uses 4 of them in his studio setup - thanks!

[@CyberPunkStefan]

Great Review. Question. How long does it take to start up?

[@OnlineVideoSolutions]

Sorry I don't have this camera any longer, so I'm not sure, but if memory serves, within 5 secs of less.

[@CyberPunkStefan]

Thanks for the quick response!

[@Csnumber1]

Have you added any updates to this very good review? You said you were in contact with Sony, so have nay of the "Cons" been addressed?

[@RobHargreavesUK]

Hi, I've sold that camera and I now have the HXR-NX80 which is an upgrade and does solve some of the Cons.

[@ChromaQueen]

It was great finding your review, lots of in depth details that one can always learn from, even after using the camera for a while! I have gotten good results but find the skies get blown out - & the highlights are too bright. I understand this is particularly symptomatic of this camera. I am doing a lot of shooting outdoors and just bought a gradated ND filter which I have to test, as I also just tried a new wide angle converter lens but couldn't use both together so I have to do in-camera adjustments. You mentioned shooting 1 stop lower to compensate, but when I'm outdoors in fall the shadows get so dark so early, I really just want to concentrate on lowering the highlights and getting more range. Others mention adjusting the highlight knee. Do you know if the forums discuss this, or have you tried it personally? I am new to those adjustments and don't want to sweepingly change the exposure. Thank you!

[@CRISTIANBRUNOFOTO]

+ Jane GussinTV black gama +7 pp2

[@WoodomainJeremyBroun]

Very good, very thorough. thanks

[@Benjaminfilm7]

Does anyone know how change the exposure buttons to manual?

[@remektekmedia6641]

Can the SDI connection output 4k video to an external recorder, like the Atomos Shogun?

[@finnurth]

Fantastic review! Very efficient!

[@kipling1957]

Thanks for this excellent review. Still a relevant camera in 2018. I’m thinking of getting one alongside my C100 mk2 for certain run & gun type projects. You mentioned it having timecode - even the C100 doesn’t have this. Is this a fully implemented timecode that can be jam-synced to a Sound Devices 633 for example? Thanks!

[@peterallen8573]

Many thanks for a great review. My X70 is on its way so I feel happy with my purchase in anticipation of its arrival. The other 'Con' is that, as I understand that, apart from being a extra chunk of money (why not free?), the 4K upgrade is 8 bit 4:2:0. Hence, if you really need 4K, 10 bit 4:2:2 a separate recorder is required (which it seems you have). The new Atomos Ninja Assassin looks like it could be useful, if it is compatible (not yet listed on Atomos site) Its HDMI not SDI but cheaper than the Shogun.

[@ScarboroughTourist]

+Peter Allen I asked Sony what 4K output was on the HDMI. Their reply: >The PXW-X70 is outputting 4:2:2 8bit on HDMI, Full HD as also as Quad Full HD. >unfortunately 10bit is never supported on our HDMI outputs, no matter what model. >>Over SDI you can have 10 bit 4:2:2 in Full HD. So even if you buy an FS5 you don't get 10 bit 422.

[@venusanat8]

How is the autoFocus this camera?

[@christophelesquer]

I 'm looking to learn how is the adjustment with zebra and could you(I think that Ihave understand!!) the peaking adjustment thanks a lot

[@OnlineVideoSolutions]

christophe le squer Unfortunately I won't get a chance to help you with this as the camera is now confirmed sold, so I will not have one to use anymore, sorry.

[@OnlineVideoSolutions]

Tom, I seem unable to directly reply to you, not sure why??? Highlights do seem to get easily blown, and another expert suggested exposing 1-stop lower in the bright outdoors as you can lift the shadows relatively easily in post. The responsiveness of the focus/zoom ring seems good for the size of camera, no hard stops of course. I have a Sennheiser MKH-416 and together with the XXLR cable it feels too big and bulky for this camera, plus you need something to increase the diameter of the mic as the shotgun mount is quite "wide" and the mic will move about. I think either the older SONY ECM-XM1 or the newer Sony ECM-MS2 are better suited to this camera.

[@UKAirscape]

You can't reply to people who haven't allowed others to post on their comments in the Google+ settings; it's an oddity of KZbin having linked Google+ with KZbin accounts...!

[@OnlineVideoSolutions]

UKAirscape Great thanks for explaining that!

[@Mr2moresleeps]

Hi Thanks for the review! How did you go with the Shogun can you get 4k out of that HDMI Port and get 10bit from the atoms??

[@OnlineVideoSolutions]

jack atley 4K on the X70 is not available yet. I assume 10-bit 1080p HD output, but not sure about the 4K when that become available in June 2015.

[@paulwilliams4517]

Hi! Rob, here's one which caught me by surprise. I have just upgraded my PXW 70 to 4K. Having just been out to test it, I notice there is no Digital Extender as is the case with HD. Have you experienced this, is it an oversight from Sony, or a technical thing associated with 4K?

[@RobHargreavesUK]

Hi Paul, I no longer own the PXW-X70 so I'm afraid I cannot comment on that, although it sounds like a bug/issue. Best to contact Sony Prime Support.

[@szabogergo2547]

How do you turn on the nightshot on the x70? I didn't see any reference on the built in nightshot into this camera. Thanks

[@OnlineVideoSolutions]

The camcorder needs to be set to Auto Mode. You then need to go into the menu ("OTHERS" at the bottom) and assign a shortcut button to Nightshot. Also ensure that the Nightshot Light is set to ON in the CAMERA SET menu at the top.

[@szabogergo2547]

OnlineVideoSolutions I can't be thankful enough for this information ;)

[@BrightForestTV]

You mentioned you have a Sony EX1R, I have a EX1, can I match Picture Profile settings between it and the X70? Thanks, great info!

[@OnlineVideoSolutions]

+BrightForestTV Unfortunately not... You may get them reasonably close by tweaking (more so on the EX1) but they use very different sensors and colour profiles. Even a PMW-200 does not produce the exact same picture profile result as the PXW-X200 (when setup the same) and you can't copy profiles between them.

[@BrightForestTV]

+OnlineVideoSolutions Thanks! :)

[@PaparazziEntertainment]

Thanks very helpful

[@Marmoladafilms]

Hello.. Thank you for your review! I bought the x70 and I am happy with it... I heard that on atomos shogun works.... I tried on atomos ninja 2 but it doesnt. Do you know something about? Do you have ninja 2 for a try? Therefore I notice when zooming manually and very slow it is not flow... It steps... Don t know if you can understand me... Happen also to you?

[@OnlineVideoSolutions]

I don't have a Ninja 2, but I do have the Shogun, and it works perfectly using the HDMI source and the setting "Output Timecode Over HDMI" and then it triggers the Shogun when I press the record button on the X70 I've not noticed the "stepping" zoom you refer to, I'll have a look at slow zooming and see if I can notice it, although I don't use slow zooms into my actual footage.

[@jmdp87aus]

What cables did you need to get the Vivtar remote control to work? Thanks!

[@OnlineVideoSolutions]

The Vivtar comes with the equivalent of the Manfrotto 522AV (but the Vivitar version is bi-direction), then you also need the Sony Sony VMCAVM1 like this: www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B00B1NTDA8

[@eyvinddk]

Brilliant! Thanks alot!

[@rawh321]

Brilliant job. Thankyou.

[@GerfriedGuggi]

Have you found any solution to the high noise floor when using the SMAD-P3 adapter? It's the same when using this setup with a A7S. Going to return the system, not usable at the moment in my opinion.

[@OnlineVideoSolutions]

No solution for the PXW-X70 as yet, but I want to try it on an X160/X180 or X200 and see if the noise floor is still there. Thanks for sharing that you have the same problem with the A7S...

[@GerfriedGuggi]

OnlineVideoSolutions returned the Sony wireless kit now, since my audio post producer considered the noise "not usable". got a Sennheiser G3 yesterday, audio levels coming in hot and clean!

[@OnlineVideoSolutions]

***** Did you only have a problem with the SMAD-P3 adapter or with the Sony Mic Kit into the camera?

[@jetrobano2302]

Are the picture profiles of the PXW-X70 exactly the same as the A6300 picture profiles? I'm interested in buying this, but not sure if I can colour match the PXW-X70 with my A6300 without grading in post. Thanks

[@OnlineVideoSolutions]

No 2 different cameras will match exactly and I don;t have the A6300 so I don't know. But the quickest and easiest method for matching 2 cameras is to buy the X-Rite MSCCPPVC ColorChecker Video for Camcorder and Color Finale and those 2 combined all super fast color matching between cameras (again not perfect) but pretty good in 2 mins flat in the edit suite.

[@jetrobano2302]

OnlineVideoSolutions thanks!

[@vikingat600]

Have they got back to you with regards to the sound issues you had with the wireless system?

[@OnlineVideoSolutions]

Paul Bateman They said the MI-Shoe just has "increased volume" compared to the XLR or 3.5mm inputs and if you raise the volume on those inputs its the same as the MI-She noise floor. I dont own this camera anymore though.

[@MarkBerger47]

+OnlineVideoSolutions Why do you no longer own the Sony X70? Did you move on to another camera for your use?

[@OnlineVideoSolutions]

No they did not get back to me and I have moved on. Currently use the PXW-X200, and may get a chance to review the Panasonic DVX200

[@saintpetefilmaker]

Tom you never talk about how to get the footage exported out to a computer??? Kind of important don't you think?

[@OnlineVideoSolutions]

Hi Troy, it's Rob ;) No I didn't mention getting the footage exported, as that's a given for any camera (yes it's important!). If you have a query regarding export let me know.

[@vuuminhdat1]

Thank you for the completed review. May I ask you, I bought Panasonic AG-AC160 but this PXW-X70 is newer model, lighter, dont know if I should sell my Ac160 and switch to X70 (I'm doing wedding videos)

[@OnlineVideoSolutions]

+Đạt Vưu Ive not used the AG-AC160, but i understand it is an excellent camera. If you want more portability or the option to upgrade to 4K video then the X70 is worth looking at. I would suggest you test/demo one to see if the functionality is acceptable compared to the AG-AC160, as for instance you don't have separate focus/iris/aperture rings on the X70. Hope that helps.

[@vuuminhdat1]

Thank you, upgrade to 4K video is the first reason I think about the X70, and Sony said it a entry level of prosumer too. Right now I see everyone is going to upgrade to 4k TV and I feel like I'm one step behind. Is it hard to control WB on X70? I usually work with WB, Iris and gain only. and I'll send you a footage from my AG-AC160 later so you can advise me to stick with it or move on.

[@HarryMangual]

HI I HAVE THE SAME CAMERA AND THE REMOTE CONTROL WHERE CAN I GET THE ADAPTER FOR THE REMOTE CAN YOU HELP ME GIVE ME THE NAME OF THE ADAPTER

[@OnlineVideoSolutions]

Harry Mangual What remote control have you got, because you need 2 cables plus the remote control itself. you definitely need the Sony VMCAVM1 16.4cm Adapter Cable then also something like the Manfrotto 522AV Adapter. I had the MVR901EPLA and the Manfrotto 522AV did not work with the MVR901EPLA. Fortunately I had the cable that came with this remote which did work: www.ebay.com/itm/Remote-Control-Handle-Vivitar-For-SONY-CCD-TRV91-DCR-TRV350-HDR-FX1000-GHV-D700-/281363712724?

[@videoman1965]

Can i use this for weddings and indie film making ? thanks

[@OnlineVideoSolutions]

Yes some people do use it for that, although DSLR cameras are much more popular due to their better image quality, better low light performance and the ability to get great bokeh!

[@HarryMangual]

WHICH ARE THE 3 CAbles for this remote please help

[@OnlineVideoSolutions]

Harry Mangual Depends on the actual remote you are going to choose, but you'd need at least the following 2 cables: The remote 2.5mm to Sony Micro USB cable is the Sony VMCAVM1 16.4cm Adapter Cable. The Manfrotto 522AV Adapter cable works with some remotes, but I can confirm it DOES NOT WORK with the Manfrotto Pan Handle Remote MVR901EPLA. Hope that helps.

[@AntFarmTVZA]

Hi Rob where can i get this camera in South Africa?

[@OnlineVideoSolutions]

No sure, I'm located in the UK so it's readily available here...

[@leandrochirico176]

This Sony RM-VPR1 works with the Sony X70? Thanks

[@OnlineVideoSolutions]

+Leandro Chirico I'm honestly not sure, best to email and ask Sony direct, unless someone here can confirm?

[@photoshootstudiopranaypare3358]

He is Very good Review... good feturs..

[@OnlineVideoSolutions]

Charlie, which "Manfrotto counter piece with 2.5mm female" did you get because the Manfrotto 522 AV did not work for me? By the way, go into Google+ and set your privacy to allow comments otherwise I cannot reply directly to you.

[@CHVMovieProduction]

Hi Rob, I have amended Google +, The Manfrotto cable is exactly the 522AV. I'm using both, the old Lanc remote from BENK as well as the Manfrotto 523Pro, however, for some odd reason, you must set the x70 remote function to off in the cameras menu. If you leave it on, the remote function will diminish shortly after. My guess is that this is due to an error in the firmware and will probably (or hopefully) be corrected in conjunction with the expected 4K update, By the way, I have updated to firmware level 1.02, which is said to correct the stereo sides left &right.

[@OnlineVideoSolutions]

CP Colonia Ah ok I can understand it working with the older Manfrotto 523Pro, but you mentioned the MVR901EPLA - which is the newer model. I assume you have not got the Manfrotto 522 AV cable working with the MVR901EPLA?

[@CHVMovieProduction]

OnlineVideoSolutions Yes Rob, Istill have the old level Remote PanRod from Manfrotto (523Pro), and I be curious why the new one would not work the same way the old level does. that's odd.

[@eleazarlopezvilla1212]

Which is the app for de remote?

[@OnlineVideoSolutions]

Eleazar López Villa Sony Content Browser Mobile (CBM)

[@christophelesquer]

Bonjour, I watch your video because I just buy this Sony PXW-X70; I want to know if it's possible that you make a presentation about "peaking" and "zebra" adjustments Thank you in advance best regards Titof44

[@OnlineVideoSolutions]

christophe le squer Bonjour, please be more specific what you are looking. I may not have the X70 much longer, so I may not be able to do any more videos on it. I now have the PXW-X200, which I will be uploading a review for in the near future.

[@KiaTaatje]

I use the wired remote Sony RMVPR 1 with this camera and works perfect ( paid new in NZ $ 64.00 a bargain ) ...P.S a very nice camera the stabilizer is not that good as the HXR NX30 I had and sold , but it doesn't worry me . Cheers from NZ

[@superuser2105]

i have sony ex1r, picture quality is the same as ex1

[@adi20pf]

Hi give these tutorials in German language? Thank you

[@OnlineVideoSolutions]

Adi I wish I could speak German and other languages!

[@OnlineVideoSolutions]

A good all-round review of this camera: kzbin.info/www/bejne/npWpq2WulLSpmaM

[@peterbenson4338]

Why do you confuse yourself when reading 1/2.3" in a camera spec, then errantly mouth the words 'two thirds" [inch sensor], Mate? Might you be challenged by a bit of dyslexia? ;-) As well, at 28:30, you erroneously refer to the Canon XA25 as "the Sony XA25 on the right...". 'Really nice work here, with exceedingly useful information, otherwise Sir! [Liked and Subscribed]

[@formattester6]

not a very sharp image. good information in this review though.

[@OnlineVideoSolutions]

Don't take this review output as a true representation of the quality of the image from this camera. Grab some of the RAW footage i recorded vs 2 other cameras below and then make a call: onedrive.live.com/redir?resid=B61728180F922239%21250

[@clifftotten6198]

If Sony only adds 60Mbp/s 4k (UHD) than the X70 will literally be all by itself as the LOWEST 4K bitrate in the industry. Every Panasonic, JVC, Canon and all other Sony 4K models have a basic bitrate of 100Mbp/s. Even the very rock bottom cheapest entry level 4K models ALL provide 100Mbp/s or higher. This is not my simple "opinion", it's actually a mathematical "fact". Why wont Sony officially commit to 100Mbp/s? Even the tiny Sony 4K Action Cam does 100Mbp/s. No Sony XDCAM camcorder should EVER have a codec that is WAY below the cheapest consumer industry models. I feel this is highly embarrassing for an "XDCAM" branded model.

[@gadoatl5133]

Just want to let you know that Sony announced that they will be upgrading the X70 to 100mb/s in the coming months.

[@OnlineVideoSolutions]

+Steven Delgado I remember seeing something on this a little while, thanks for the reminder.

[@vikingat600]

Not happy about the sound issues.Not acceptable.

[@OnlineVideoSolutions]

Paul Bateman yes I don't own it any longer, as firmware 2.0 improved at all?

[@vikingat600]

No I haven't got one. Was concerned about your comments Re the sound. Now they want a fortune for 4k upgrade that the ax100 already has at the worst bit rate on the market. No thanks. What camcorders would you suggest up to$4000. What ya think of the jvc gy-ls300 and the Panasonic hcx-1000? Or any other camcorders around this price range?

[@OnlineVideoSolutions]

Paul Bateman I haven't tried either of those 2 cameras. I now only use the PXW-X200 (see my review of that), but I don't like the JVC GY-LS300 since it requires micro four thirds lenses therefore no "servo" type zoom is possible on that camera. The Panasonic hcx-1000 seems ok and some reviews suggest is good value, but obviously suffers in low light. The JVC GY-LS200 might be worth a look as it's similar to the X70 although slightly bigger. Battery life is apparently poor though.

[@boxcrepeau]

very useful many thanks

[@clifftotten6198]

If Sony only adds 60Mbp/s 4k (UHD) than the X70 will literally be all by itself as the LOWEST 4K bitrate in the industry. Every Panasonic, JVC, Canon and all other Sony 4K models have a basic bitrate of 100Mbp/s. Even the very rock bottom cheapest entry level 4K models ALL provide 100Mbp/s or higher. This is not my simple "opinion", it's actually a mathematical "fact". Why wont Sony officially commit to 100Mbp/s? Even the tiny Sony 4K Action Cam does 100Mbp/s. No Sony XDCAM camcorder should EVER have a codec that is WAY below the cheapest consumer industry models. I feel this is highly embarrassing for an "XDCAM" branded model.

[@OnlineVideoSolutions]

+Cliff Totten Agreed! Even though I don't own this camera anymore 100Mbp/s really should be the minimum for 4K... I suppose one reason could be the challenge of getting a wider range of SD cards to reliably work at that "higher" bitrate, but if they made clear that only for example Sandisk Extreme or Lexar worked and a minimum write speed was required that could alleviate that concern...