Why Buy A Camcorder In 2024? Starring The New Sony Z200!

[@ChampagneSocialist]

As a DP who owns several Alexas, I can confidently say I love camcorders. Set them correctly and they can produce stunning images and JUST SO EASY TO USE.

[@ChroniclesofGhoul]

So glad to hear a pro say this. I look at a 1” sensor and always the image will be quite meh. When you say set them correctly, can I ask what your approach would be?

[@KidTonyGaming]

@@ChroniclesofGhoul I want to get into sports videography and the closest you can get to a broadcast camera with infinite focus and not having to spend a million a lens, is a camcorder

[@jacobwarling4345]

​@@ChroniclesofGhoul I've grown up having shot on VHS, DV, Mini DV, and then digital. I haven't really noticed a difference per se because of the sensor size. The last broadcast crew I worked with (july 2023) had cameras with 2/3" sensors in them. That went out regionally on Bally for an MLS game. It's all contextual. Most camcorders are fairly forgiving, and don't require as much fuss as cinema line camera set up, and most of the shoots I've been apart of that are camcorder based were more OTF that used natural light and it looked way better then I thought it would. Especially when you consider the "budget friendly factor" of the included 24-380mm lens. TLDR the sensor doesn't matter as much as you think. "You don't need a tank to hunt rabbits"

[@gh7fans]

Totally agree with you, especially shooting some event and no retake performance, camcorder can give you 100% confidence.

[@noth606]

@@KidTonyGaming why would you want a broadcast camera for petes sake? The only places where you'd ever need or want one already has plenty - TV studios/broadcast vans. And no, you have several "DSLR" like cameras that give you the ability to swap lenses which a camcorder by definition doesn't. I bought an FX30 a few months ago, for what I want it for it's fine, but if you need some juicier features you can go for the FX3, both will take any type of lens you need including long lenses which some sports BS requires, and camcorders can't take by means they are out.

[@frankfeng2701]

After more than five years, Sony finally releases a decent camcorder that uses a new 1" CMOS and gets matching video specs/features from the newer FX cameras.

[@StephenMcFadden]

The NX80 was great too. The only thing it was missing was 4k 60p. It has the 1' inch sensor.

[@frankfeng2701]

@@StephenMcFadden NX80 was released in 2018 and used the same old 1" sensor as on RX100 and RX10 series. That's why it couldn't do 4K60p or 10bit422.

[@kevinbooth6865]

@@frankfeng2701 The sensor is not the reason for the lack of 4K 60p in the NX80 or Z90. Power consumption was the reason, plus it wasn't built into the camera. What do you expect the camera to do when a camera like the NX80 only uses 6 watts? The camera could also stream there wasn't enough power to do 60p in 4K. Look at the power levels of these two cameras and you'll see what I mean, minimum power is 16 and 20 watts respectively, and it will use more electricity based on what settings are being used in the camera plus the codec, consumption will be as high as 37 watts.

[@emmetkowler]

Glad to see ghost hunters represented in a camera review. They don’t get enough respect in the filmmaking community.

[@btkhoafilms]

Could you explain what is ghost hunters is ?

[@mattodomphoto]

@@btkhoafilms awesome paramormal tv show best episodes ( RAMS INN HOTEL and Goldfield Hotel BTW)

[@SeanLewisMedia]

Camcorders for life! My whole channel has been built off a Sony AX53 and I think it will always have a use even as my needs have grown!

[@momchilyordanov8190]

Well, I work in a TV channel. More than 20 years already. We use nothing else than camcorders for shooting on the ground. Only people who need them know why :)

[@LoFiAxolotl]

i think everyone who used one knows why... doesn't really matter if it's for broadcast or recording... hobby or pro... if you shoot only video i don't understand why people go for a mirrorless camera... just the lens alone on really any camcorder be it Sony, Pana, Canon or JVC is absolute magic... and even a 10 year old Camcorder produces absolutely beautiful 1080p footage that's more than good enough for youtube etc

[@horizonteestudios]

@@LoFiAxolotl Mi amigo que nunca uso una videocamara sony 😂

[@mrjohnryan]

I worked at a TV station back in the day. I miss my old Sony EX-3

[@kennyadvocat]

I had the sony hdr- fx1 back in the day. Made a lot of money on that camcorder! =)

[@Utrenniystoyak]

@@LoFiAxolotl потому что один обьектив это творческие оковы. Если я хочу ретро оптику использовать для видео например

[@Joshua_S]

Ahhw man, now I want a full ghost hunting episode with the CVP crew 😅

[@CVPTV]

👀

[@tld8102]

Camcorders still have a large market especially in government when with little training. Like it's very popular with police where i live. they film riots and protests in high quality video so they don't nee to rely on CCTV afterwards.

[@alwinbenjamin]

👏🏻💯

[@DerrichJohn]

Love my z280. Used it for all sorts of crazy run and gun situations. Once you dial in your settings it’s just plug n play. You won’t miss focus or a shot ever. If getting the shot is more important than depth of field these things are awesome.

[@LoFiAxolotl]

I know the last years a shallow depth of field has become incredibly popular... but i've been shooting documentaries since the 60s.... i don't want a shallow depth of field... i want my viewer to be able to experience the surroundings feel like they're part of it... not just that the smaller sensor is amazing for that... but the ergonomics of a camcorder are just perfect for video work... DSLR/MIrrorless style bodies are made for photography... you just can't get a steady grip on them while walking... not to mention that things like Timecode, False Colors, SDI connections, Monitors and the options you have.... in addition to build in ND filters and a tac sharp lens that has an incredibly versatile range are just mandatory for professional work... get a 10 year old camcorder for next to nothing and you will have an amazing experience shooting and the image still looks beautiful today in great high bitrate 1080p and you pay next to nothing

[@83442handle]

I actually tend to hate shallow depth of field for content outside of specific tasteful cinematic reasons. Everyone buys full frame cameras and wants to shoot at 2.8 in a beatiful location removing the entire scene or worst they try and vlog with talking to mutiple people and the AF jumps around since you can only have 1 person in focus with a DOF that thin. KZbin would be a better place if more people used high quality camcorders for there content.

[@LoFiAxolotl]

@@83442handle Yeah if you have a specific reason for a shot with a shallow depth of field.. totally fine! Nobody judges that... can look really tasteful... but jees... i look on insta and every picture has like half a milimeter in focus... even in interviews i've seen people shoot super wide open and i just can't... or watching a bad youtube video where they had to edit a note in that say "sorry for the focus" buddy you are in control of the focus... just put it on manual set it and don't let the camera decide what to jump on because you want to shoot wide open I'm too old and grumpy to try and teach people to study other artist and understand that aperture is a creative tool not a dick measurement contest

[@williamdlc3]

A lot of KZbin camera channels don’t take into account that a majority of professional video is still produced in 1080p and not everything has to be done in S-Log3 professionally. I love my big chip cameras, and I love small chip camcorders too, just really depends on the gig and job.

[@algarveTV]

I've checked some videos about this camera, and the comments divide in the good and bad of large sensors vs small sensors (AKA FX and A segment vs. camcorders). I'm a videographer and I use cameras as a tool. Is not what I love or like, is what's good for the job. I love, use and prefer the cinema line (large sensors), but I do a lot of Conferences, Live stage events and Sports (golf, soccer, running) and when you: - Don't have time/conditions to switch lenses (running, dust environment, in a boat) - Don't have zoom reach with FF lenses - Need wide and close shots in a snap - A quick moment when you need 3 shots (wide, medium and telephoto) in less than 20 seconds (prize giving, speech (close up) and audience clapping) - Need to perform long recordings (non-stop) in hot places - outdoor sports, etc. - Need XLR inputs (the proper ones) - without any adapters and controlling the input nicely - Need rapid adjustment for strong light changes (ND on and off from indoor from outdoor) - Coming from inside ou vice-versa. - Need to record continuously with zoom in and out with parfocal lens (sports, a conference, stage play, etc.) - For example in Golf I want a close-up full body and then opening when the shot happens to catch the ball in the air and use all of the shot) - Want less DOF - in sports, stage plays/music, and conferences, having a bigger DOF is not as aestetic or desirable as in fiction or commercial work. When you need this more than: - Low light performance - Shallow DOF - Dynamic Range - Using a proper Wide (20mm or less) in a gimbal with a lighter combo (A7S ou Z-1) The camcorder is the ONLY camera to go.

[@JohnHennessykerbute]

I'd love to see a shootout between the Z200 and the Panasonic HC-X2. They seem very similarly specced and priced, similar zoom range etc. Great to see more competition in the camcorder space again.

[@LMActionsports]

Picked up the Sony NX 800 and I am truly in love with it. I have use it more than my FX 30. The image quality is spot on. I did a little test comparing the image quality with my FX 30 and I am super happy with the results. It’s a big jump switch into a camcorder during no question about that. But to be able to have such a long reach, and it will be a great addition for the racing events attend. The auto focus is just as good as my Sony A7R5, and the new auto framing feature is super cool. I’ve used it already at a wedding while it was recording the first dance, following the bride and groom I was taking pictures. It’s like having your own little cameraman inside of the camera. Sony did a great job with this.

[@U2TV_Sportscast]

I love my Sony AX33...but I've been ready to upgrade for 4 years now. It's was rumored that Sony stopped making camcorders. I'm glad I stuck it out & excited about the Z200. Especially, with the broadcast streaming add-ons. The price is a hefty. But I'm willing to wait a little longer, to see if the price drops. If not, I will be getting this beast, eventually!

[@MathieuRousseau]

I own a Canon Camcorder... I use it to capture Conference... mostly the question in the audience thanks to the 20x zoom. I can focus on anybody in the crowd in an instant.

[@allenmovies]

I wish Sony would release ONE more line of consumer camcorders. They abandoned them just as they were starting to get good. If they could release a replacement for the AX53 or AX700 with 4K 60p and improved auto focus, that'd be so perfect.

[@NathansVideos46]

I completely agree. Sony's balanced optical steady shot in the AX53 is unmatched

[@arnoldsnodgrass2953]

Agreed! Plus 10-bit 4:2:2 recording and S-Log for better highlights and grading. Or at least include HLG.

[@allenmovies]

@arnoldsnodgrass2953 i genuinely believe its because they think an all in one camcorder like that would cannibalize DSLR & lens sales

[@BeyondBaito]

This is very much for someone who knows they're gonna need it. Im just glad Sony is at least still making these new. I can't wait to see what people do with it.

[@juhaaavalaakso455]

I really miss camcorders. Blurring the background with wide apertures is totally nonsense. The most important things are story, audio, and lighting. Especially we totally lack a good stories in 2024. There are absolutely no point and it also feels stupid to watch 75 inch 4k hdr tv with 80% of the screen is totally blur. It does not make movie any better. 30 years ago there were nuances in the background bringing more content to films. Now those are blurred out and we are watching some stupid nose hairs that are over sharpened.

[@kalkydra]

Fantastic review. In a world flooded with vlog and cinematic cameras, a decent update for what used to be the way of recording family videos, lets goooooooo, sold!

[@hayabusaTravels]

If Sony made a new camcorder now, the next step is to finally make a successor for the FDR X3000 action camera! They have the technology! I need some B.O.S.S. in 4k@60fps@130MBit/s in my life!

[@MichaelWTurner]

It's nice to see they are still making camcorders these days. They need to shrink this one down and make a smaller model like the nx80 though. I wouldn't mind slightly less zoom and a bigger sensor for a little more added shallow depth of field, and more importantly, improved low light capabilities

[@andyxmunoz]

Such a sexy camera, I loved using these style of camcorders when I shot sports for a news station. So convenient and almost impossible to miss shots.

[@richard.robert]

Camcorders have their use, like mirrorless cameras. I mainly see the usefulness of camcorders to film sports activities, documentaries where you have to quickly move from a wide shot to a very close shot (for example, hunting or fishing programs) and press conference coverage. I had several camcorders in the 1990s and 2000s, and I miss having their versatility and speed.

[@craftandfiction]

I absolutely love camcorders. They just feel like proper filmmaking cameras. They’re so easy to use and make so much sense when shooting video.

[@LoFiAxolotl]

having made over 20 documentaries... they definitely are for proper filmmakers... An Alexa has it's place.... but so does a camcorder, it's about the right tool for the right job

[@jaymills1720]

Sweet new hairdo ! 💇‍♂️ Would love a compact camcorder !

[@phoenixvette]

well this is the perfect pair. it's like the tomato in a BLT. Bacon is FX6, Lettuce is FX30.

[@tiemji]

Thanks for sharing opinions and views coming from those cameras. I'm watching to buy one of these kind and it really helps

[@verebellus]

the design looks like the fs700 and fx6 had a baby

[@shem44]

Looks good. Cant wait for z280 successor

[@livemusic]

Started with our family RCA VHS camera in the 80s. Around 1998 I bought the Canon GL1 and used it a ton for family footage and even concerts back when they’d let you in with such a camera. Later I upgraded to a Canon XH A1. That was the first camera I used for paid jobs, mostly which were simple interviews. Moved to two original C100 cameras after that and better cameras later. Once the XF705 came out I was quick to pull the trigger. No rigged cinema or mirrorless can ever compare with the usability of a camcorder. But sadly I don’t use my xF 705 much because the footage is very lacking unless you have a lot of light. Shooting an event in bright sun is an ideal situation. I’ll buy a camcorder again if they can match the mirrorless or cinema look while maintaining the same camcorder features all users love.

[@craigw.scribner6490]

I mainly shoot sports and event videos and my camcorder history is very similar to yours--Super 8 in the sixties and seventies, then when our children came along it was an RCA VHS (rented from my local video store), next in 2000 my trusty GL1, followed in 2010 by the XHA1-S (actually, three of them!), two Vixia GX10 camcorders in 2020 and now, for the past two years, my Canon XF605. I've loved them all and, for my needs, are exactly the right tool.

[@livemusic]

@@craigw.scribner6490 Definitely quite an overlap. I was so excited for my XF705, but because of the codec I couldn’t even edit the 4K until last year when I got an even newer Mac Pro. I’m still confused as to why the 705 cost so much more that the 605. I’ve been tempted to trade it in, as your camera seems more appealing and even a little smaller. It’s been a while since I looked into the specs. I used to rent three XF300/305 for some projects. Many years ago I lent my GL1 to a friend. Because I’m so sentimental I would like it back some point even though I’d never use it. Last year I found a Sony watchman of sorts for MiniDV tapes. An engineer owned it and I think he even improved it from its original state. Better than new. My XHA1 died long ago; at least the ability for playback. So it’s been so great to pop in old family tapes, concert footage and more again. I still have the VHS camera in my garage too. Oh yeah, and when I was 12 I went to Toys R’ Us and got the Fisher Price PXL-2000 and later bought another someone had modified with rca output. I don’t understand the tech well enough to understand this… but I don’t see why we can’t have something like and R5 in the form or a camcorder, yet with a fixed zoom L level lens. Our XF cameras are great, but lacking in quality compared to my mirrorless or my C70. Have fun shooting!

[@rodddb]

Is the Canon XHA1 good for any use now?

[@livemusic]

@@rodddb It’s only 1280x720 and uses MiniHD tapes. It served me well for a while, but not sure what it would be good for these days. The last times I remember using it many years ago was when I was shooting a band on stage and I made use of the SDI output for the live feed to the screen. The resolution of the display wasn’t great and I didn’t need to record the event so the XHA1 was a decent choice.

[@craigw.scribner6490]

​@@rodddb My XHA1S camcorders take excellent video (1080P is the highest resolution). My only problem was not with the camcorder, but with faulty mini-DV tapes. In 2018, I started noticing lots of skips and drop-outs from brand new tapes, which I had hardly ever (once or twice?) experienced in the previous ten years. Other mini-DV users on the web reported the same problems and the general consensus was that the manufacturing process and quality control were subpar. Whatever the reason, I upgraded to the GX10, which uses SD cards.

[@shankarraj3433]

Thanks for the informative video.

[@danielbuckley4961]

Excellent summation of its features bolstered by real footage. Subscribing.

[@phil.harmonic.007]

Good video, lots of people now think that cameras on phones are all that’s needed, I have an array of Sony broadcast cams and there is no comparison to the quality of sensors and lens from pro cams

[@xxphactor]

Back in the day, I would use my Canon 5d for interviews, and my Sony EX-3 for b-roll. I always liked a good camcorder

[@mikeconcannon2]

Any samples of what it is like in low light, l hope it will be as good as my old pxw x200, as l have ordered a HX800

[@bulentdvcam]

Merhaba mutlu zamanlar diliyorum. HX800 ne kadar ödeme yapmanız gerekti bunu merak ediyorum.

[@AridersLifeYT]

i plan on getting this Z200 purely for recording motorcycle videos because its 120p at 4k and has a 1 inch sensor.

[@Nordbiene]

Thank You for this video. Great camera.

[@CVPTV]

Thanks for watching, Jake

[@watchvideosoul]

The shots of the deer look excellent! Very nice.

[@PyroKalfje]

perfect for smaller local broadcasters. they cant spend the money for a full 2/3 eng camera. but still want the ease of use and the adventages of smaller size sensor. because the local tv channels work often with less experience operators is the autofocus perfect even this would be great as a camjo package for larger stations.

[@harryvuemedia5106]

I am seriously thinking about these 2 camcorders as stationary cameras for event gigs. Weddings, birthdays, retirements and celebrations are perfect for the Z200 and NX800. They would be much more convenient than actually rigging up my mirrorless cameras. Besides that, both cameras have 10-bit colors, S-cinetone and 4K resolution. Only con that is getting to me is the 1-inch sensor. Wish it was a 35mm sensor to make it much better for recording. Besides that, it's perfect for LIVE streaming too since it has all the connections and buttons to allow easy setup for it.

[@LoFiAxolotl]

parts of Avatar 2 were shot on a 65mm Arri and on a APS-C Fujifilm X-H2... and you can definitely not tell me you know which scenes are which... sensor size does not matter

[@danbrockettDOP]

We own the XF-605 and use it for larger live stream and broadcast events. The only real downside of that camera is the image gets pretty noisy above ISO 500. This new Sony is better but I am definitely spoiled by a relatively clean, noiseless image on my FX6 at ISO 5000 when shooting S-Cinetone for live streaming. We usually light shoots but we get some done in theaters with theatrical lighting that is very different than video lighting. So it just depends on the prioroties, lighting and zoom range needed. I owned the Panasonic DVX100, then the HVX200, then the HPX170 so I loved my camcorders back in the day, so much more convenient than mirrorless/DSLR/cine cameras for a lot of work.

[@ScottBrasher]

Amazing review as always! I would buy this just for the zoom ability- Question do you loose focus through the zoom range? Does the focus behave smoothly through out the zoom?

[@johnclay7644]

informative video (could buy-in 2025) thanks CVP.

[@Arunjdjd]

4:10 that ghost 😂😂😂

[@scowag11]

Does anyone know if this lens is an improvement from the lens on the Z280? That was a horribly soft lens on the wide end.

[@Psychlopic]

We use Camcorder style cameras at our University in order to introduce students how to use proffesjonal video cameras. We've found them to be great "beginner" cameras that our students can get more used to, expecially since they start with news production (ENG) the first semester, before they go on to use FS5s and eventually FX6s for fiction and documentary assignments. This would also fit well with our Documentary produksjon program. Though our current Canon XF100 are really starting to show their age, and we're looking to replace them. This could be a great replacement. Will definitely take a look at the at IBC this year.

[@CVPTV]

Makes total sense and these are defo worth checking out as they will make the transition into FS/FX cameras if you have them pretty nice for your students. Thanks for watching, Jake

[@AustinWestbro]

Great if you’re going for that local news or high school film project look

[@Realist-m9c]

It looks like a major update to the PWX-x200. We had ours for about 8 years.

[@ruikazane5123]

And here I am looking at old Betacam or XDCAM camcorders just for the imposing stature, and the universal B4 lens mount with very wide zoom ranges. Glad to see Nightshot live on from the Handycam days, and it looks absolutely brighter than the past! If Sony would only accept CFexpress B cards...but how bad SxS would be on an XDCAM?

[@timpolster]

Thanks for the nice overview video. You always do a great job. Can you say if the menus have a full color correction matrix as we have come expect over the years? I currently have Panasonic cameras which include great menu color options since the PX270 and would not want to go without it.

[@jakebaine]

The fact that this camera gets the .MXF wrapper but the FX3 doesn’t makes me extremely frustrated with Sony’s decision making.

[@makatron]

I lost it with the ghost hunting! 😂

[@shelbyt4509]

The body is huge consider the sensor size, not for amateur or even small studio... Hope the can cut the control a little bit, make the whole size 1/3 shorter and reduce the price by 1/4, that will be much better for me and I'll buy one for event shooting

[@WupperVideo]

@@shelbyt4509 I would really like to see a successor to the 7 year old Z90.

[@POVwithRC]

Everyone who says they will buy something if a manufacturer does X or Y to change it never actually follows up with orders. It's why they don't listen to you.

[@WupperVideo]

@@POVwithRC we bought the XA75, because there was no real alternative.

[@LoFiAxolotl]

been shooting documentaries with a camcorder for almost 60 years now... the body is literally the biggest argument for one... i need several SDI ports... TC in... Monitor... quick options... buttons for ND, PZ etc etc etc etc

[@danbrockettDOP]

@@POVwithRC It's the Homer Simpson designs a car paradigm. Manufacturers make what their marketing studies tell them will sell. I've participated in some panels and discussions with engineers at Panasonic, Canon and Sony. When you suggest something that is technically not possible, or economically viable, it''s nice to get instant feedback as to why or why not they will build that feature request into a camera. One I brought up is why are audio signal chains to abysmally terrible in all cameras/camcorders? We have companies like Apogee who make killer high quality A/D and D/A convertors and mic pre-amps, there are plenty of great audio companies that a Sony, Canon or Panasonic could partner with to integrate high quality audio signal chains in cameras. Most video oriented people have never given a camera to an audio engineer in a studio with testing and measuring equipment. I have because I have a colleague who is an audio engineer. People don't want to hear this but all audio in all cameras is absolute garbage. The mic pre-amps are off the shelf parts that cost .50-$1.00 so of course they sound terrible. The manufacturers don't build good audio into cameras because the audience who buys cameras is basically ignorant about audio. if they don't know or can't tell the difference between bad and good audio, why would a manufacturer invest in building in good audio when it won't net them any additional sales? So me, as a DP who owned an audio post facility and has worked in recording studios would be happy if camera companies built killer audio into cameras. But nobody else cares about that, so they don't. Companies only build features in if they get a groundswell of requests for that feature, if its possible, economically viable and if marketing thinks it will help the new camera to actually sell.

[@WupperVideo]

The body design and buttons and also the door for the memory slots really look like the FX6.

[@CVPTV]

Thanks for watching, Jake

[@LoFiAxolotl]

probably are... cheaper to produce what you already have molds for than make new ones... especially for camcorders where the production run is usually much smaller than a big production run like the FX6

[@spdcrzy]

FINALLY. Even the pro version at four grand is a stupid good deal. I've been waiting for a minute for Sony to update their high-end camcorders.

[@hvxcolors396]

I'm sure there are tons of creators that want such a camcorder with a bigger sensor. There are plenty run and gun projects like live concerts, fashion show, weddings where you are filming in darker situations and where you want that incredible zoom range because you want to be prepared for each shot. There is plenty of space in a camcorder to accommodate a larger lens.

[@owenling]

I hope the new FX6 and FX9 models have a top handle and LCD setup as clean and practical as this does!

[@WupperVideo]

@@owenling but the lcd could be a bit brighter.

[@northislandnow8858]

Sure be nice if Sony upgraded there flagship shoulder mount ENG camera. This technology might be worthy the cash if they did. ;)

[@erickperdomo277]

Will this Z200 be better than the Z280 with its smaller sensors? Will this Z200 be better -image quality than the Canon XF605? Thanks for the video.

[@VeeDriving]

Great video, CVP. May I ask what the dynamic range is of this new camcorder? I am trying to understand what would make this choice much better than something like the Sony AX53 which has been around since 2016. Obviously this new model has a ton of more features, but I want to compare the pure video qualities.

[@floripilsl2671]

Would be interesting that at some point the auto framing features can be fed to a tripod head that is automatic and cc its movement

[@bulentdvcam]

Hello. I want to ask a very important question for me. There is a problem with some Sony cameras that I cannot understand. When zooming in, the aperture drops to 2.6 or even 3.4. This problem is incredible in sony z190. Does this problem apply to my z200? I'm very curious about this.

[@CVPTV]

Hey, yes most camcorders will have variable aperture lenses. Jake

[@yesthisisdonut]

the stubble looks good on ya!

[@rickbiessman6084]

Some very good points here. Camcorders aren’t sexy by a long shot - but this right here 12:52 is a strong argument. Transporting and rigging up my mirrorless is a bit of a hassle, and getting stable footage from it requires a bit of work and practice. I still don’t think I’ll buy a camcorder in the forseeable future, but I do see the benefits. I can’t help but wonder though how the price and size would change with an APS-C sensor. Wouldn’t that make it a lot more interesting to a lot of people? Base ISO of 1600 for shooting SLog3 and the noise that comes from this sensor is... concerning.

[@LoFiAxolotl]

absolutely unfeasable with a bigger sensor... not only does the target audience not want that... but also the lens would be much too big... i trade a great sharp light lens with an incredible range for well nothing i'D get out of a S35 sensor any day... also 7 stops of ND would not nearly be enough to get enough depth of field on a S35 size sensor... would need a 20 stop ND or something silly to shoot outside

[@jakesouthard9175]

My first thought was that this would be a good camera for a tv show like History channel’s “Alone”. Where they literally hand an average Joe a camera and send them off Into the wilderness.

[@felipeandjess]

What is the canon equivalent for the Z200?

[@scotthayesproductions5715]

A S35 camcorder would get my money. lugging around mirrorless and lenses is a hassle these days.

[@danbrockettDOP]

Unfortunately an S35 camcorder would have to be ridiculously huge to keep the same zoom range and exposure parameters or would have a very slow lens, That's why nobody has gone larger than a 1" sensor in a camcorder. Can't bend those laws of physics.

[@THE_HMRC]

Will these camcorders run on external batteries via USB C connectors like the FX cams?

[@anthonypeirce5875]

Nice camcorder Z200, being honest i use panasonic cx350 do you think theres much difference between the two i film aircraft Airshows [ETC]

[@Frostshield1337]

Camcorder bodies always interested me, but I am curious to see how many people would want to spend the money for it, and in what type of shoots comparatively to something like a FX6 or FS7. It's great to see Sony really just give an option for practically every style of shooter!

[@frankfeng2701]

Now Sony needs to release the FX60 and FX9ii

[@---DTB---]

I would buy that, I mainly shoot documentary style videos

[@shem44]

I'm using a few sony z280 and will buy new models once sony release the successor. These are used for live and stage events recording. I also have sony fx6 and fx3 for interviews and corporate video production. There is no way I will use them for live event or stage recording as they r FF and I need 30mm to 600mm kind of flexible zooming.

[@Ryan-Payne]

I could totally see vérité doc shooters, news gatherers, mid level sports, music festival, broadcast event and house of worship jump on this because it has modern features in a no fuss package. Lens, ND, Audio, SDI, Zoom control, Redundant record, Time code, EVF and s-cinetone are all there. In the right niche this would 100% be a workhorse, though I do agree it's not cheap and not for the entry level who's finding their feet. It's when you know you want to niche down into one of the above.

[@LoFiAxolotl]

literally for anything that doesn't require immediate broadcast

[@edwardv54]

I wish they would update the Panasonic AG-DVX200 to the specs. of the GH7, I would buy it now.

[@DuffTV]

But does the zoom rocker operate as good as the xf605. My experience with Sony camcorders is that the zoom rockers have inherent jerky performance. Ex1 and x160 were terriblly jerky when doing a slow creep. Has it improved?

[@PulkVideo]

Thanks, very nice introdution! I am looking for a Sony PXW-Z280. Any experiance with these? Any idea if the Z200 comes near the Z280?

[@ReelFilm2016]

Great review. 😊

[@mrjohnryan]

The use of camcorder style cameras for KZbin and streaming is SO overlooked.

[@Bradum]

How so? The Z200 is $4000, while you could get something like the FX30 with a lens for nearly half the price AND it comes with a sensor that's nearly 3.5x as large in a much smaller body. If you really need the huge motorized zoom range you could just do the Fuji X-S20 with the XF 18-120mm PZ lens ($1300+900 = $2200).

[@mrjohnryan]

​@@Bradum If cost is an issue, I totally agree with you! I mean overlooked in the sense that KZbinrs build out these mirrorless rigs because "everyone is using the FX3, so that's what I should use." But if you don't have the know-how, a mirrorless system can get in the way of what you want to create. A camcorder might be the perfect solution for a creator that needs a camera they grab and go.

[@heelsandreelspodcast]

In 4k, does the screen black out when hdmi is going out to a switcher like the ax700 did?

[@rodgersasu]

This looks like a solid camera! Do you by any chance know the Sony HXR-NX200, am having a tough time finding a decent English review on it! Since you mentined the nx 800 i tought you might know the nx 200, can you tell me more about it ie nx200?? Thanks

[@FootballScoutsTV]

great video, 5aside football is exactly what i want to film.

[@Waadee101]

Can we add an Atmos Ninja to the Sony PXW Z 200 and get a 10 Bit Pro Res 422 Footage?

[@PyroKalfje]

I'm quite curious how it will compare to the expected Tamron 20 - 400mm f4 - 7.1 in combination with an fx6. it would have about the depth of field as a 1" sensor and better lowlight. but how would that compare when you compose the gain/iso on the fx6 due to smaller aperture in low light. would there be more or less noise. of course fx6 is a bit more expensive . but it can be used much more universally. Especially if you have a limited budget, you get 2 cameras for the price of 1. In addition, you can quickly make a super small scary shoulder rig with a Wooden camera vmount plate, in combination with a low-profile Vovocas shoulder plate and a short arm for the handgrip, if you keep it compact enough you can hold it and put it on your shoulder, but of course fx6 cannot do a 1080i50, which is limited, especially for those who use a camcorder.

[@Abdi_Mohamed_]

I just can’t understand why they constantly have a 1” sensor for the price they are? Why not at least have a MFT sensor or a super 35

[@jacy123]

Would make a good possible upgrade from my DVX200. The DVX has a Macro Mode, 4/3 censor,and Programmable focus transitions that work perfectly. The Z200 doesn’t seem to have that but it does have the fancy ND!!

[@WupperVideo]

@@jacy123 most of these camcorders have a min. focus distance of

[@jacy123]

@@WupperVideo gotcha. I’d be curious to see how the depth of field compares at those distances since the DVX has a larger sensor and I can get some very shallow dof in macro mode with it. Would be nice to have 5K from the Sony. If the Sony had 4/3 sensor and programmable focus transitions it would pretty much be an instant decision to upgrade. Dvx needs an external recorder for 10bit 😑 but I’m used to it.

[@WupperVideo]

@@jacy123 I haven’t used my DVX200 for about 4 years. It wasn’t the best in low light, the AF was old, it was heavy and I never used the programmable focus transitions, because it was slower to program it, than doing it just manually. I used the AG-CX10 for two years and replaced it by the XF605. The depth of field isn’t that different between 4/3“ and 1“.

[@jacy123]

@@WupperVideo the auto focus is definitely old in the Dvx 200. I found the focus transitions to be unrepeatable to do manually especially when using three points of focus. Additionally nice that you could set the duration of each transition and i found it to be pinpoint accurate and smooth. The xf605 definately caught my eye. True, the sensor size isn’t that much different between 4/3 and 1 inch but I recently tried the Canon C 70 and compared it to my R5c and the depth of field difference between an apsc crop sensor and a full frame was noticeable enough that I returned it. They definitely couldn’t be used as a an and a & b cam for a professional interview because of it. If I could find a full frame camera with programmable focus transitions I would love that but I will probably just have to use the DJI lens control system with a C400 or my r5c. I mostly use the DVX for live events and better auto focus would be great had solid Luck with it tho.

[@신용락-v1m]

Does it have an anti-flicker feature?

[@chrisw443]

Same sensor size and same slow dark lens. The DVX200 has better specs. Why cant we get a camcorder like that again? One inch sensors are not good enough for modern cameras, theyre too dark. because they have these slow lenses!

[@WupperVideo]

The DVX200 is old, outdated and didn’t benefit in low light from its 4/3” sensor. Still own mine from 2016, but didn’t used it for 5 years. I’m happy with my XF605, did you check it out?

[@LoFiAxolotl]

no actual person who wants to seriously make films cares about aperture or sensor size...

[@TraeBeneck]

@@LoFiAxolotl Every single working DP and director cares about these things. Look at Nolan or others that rave endlessly about IMAX or other large-format cameras. There's a reason why almost every Hollywood movie looks the same

[@ShutTheMuckUp]

@@TraeBeneck Most movies have been shot on super 35 sensors. Not full frame. Not IMAX. Same goes for the film era. 35mm film fed vertically into a film camera is equivalent to being shot on a super 35 (or crop) sensor. There is a full frame film equivalent available, and it's called Vistavision.

[@LoFiAxolotl]

@@TraeBeneck about 20% of Avatar 2 were shot on a Fujifilm X-H2... feel free to tell me which scenes as there's obviously a huge difference between the sensor sizes and image... shush now... also you might want to read what Christopher Nolan actually said... which was about the image format not sensor size... because he much prefers the IMAX 70mm 1.43:1 over 4:3 or 16:9 or 1.85:1 also as a working director who's married to a DP who knows several other DPs and Directors... no.. no.. we do not care about sensor size... we care about reliability... we care about how the colors look... about perspective... the format we choose and the camera we choose is a result of the above not the other way around

[@CallMeRabbitzUSVI]

Not to be "That guy" but Tamron has an 18-400mm (27-600mm) Super 35 lens which is compact and gives a 22.2x zoom. Put this on a high end 8k Sensor like the X-H2 and you can reach 600mm in 8k, 1200mm in 4k, and a WHOPPING 2400MM in 1080P! Coupled with RAW recording and Tascam 4Channel Module and you have a much more capable setup. Cheaper too! 😊😊😊

[@csamd9049]

Photo optics are rubbish and suck, they can in no way compete with tele optics in video cameras

[@CallMeRabbitzUSVI]

​@@csamd9049I'm not sure what you're basing this off of but Photo Optics are usually better than Video Camcorder optics given that they have to resolve a higher resolution. The Tamron 18-400mm was built to resolve 18-24mp APS-C Sensors. While the Camcorders rarely if ever have to resolve more that 4K (8.8mp) Source: I own the Tamron 18-400mm EF + Fuji X-H2 and have no problem resolving 4K even when cropped in

[@csamd9049]

@@CallMeRabbitzUSVI The quality of video camera optics is usually higher, since it is easier to produce high-quality optics for a smaller sensor. But I wasn’t talking about this, but about the fact that cameras with photo optics in general are unsuitable for shooting complex scenes at long focal lengths without defects

[@CallMeRabbitzUSVI]

@@csamd9049 You have everything backwards, its harder to produce higher quality optics for smaller sensors since the Pixel Density is higher on crop sensors than bigger sensors. For example: A 20mp Full Frame sensor is less pixel dense than a 20mp Micro Four-Thirds sensor. Take the same lens like a Canon 50mm f1.8 and put it on both cameras, you will notice that the MFT image is softer since it is using the smaller center portion of the lens. Now you wouldn't need as much glass to make a 50mm lens that covers MFT which makes the lens smaller, but when making a lens smaller, the elements (glass) in the is also smaller meaning any impurities in the lenscrafting process is enlarged making it so things like Chromatic Aberrarion, Flaring/Glaring, and other Lens Anomalies are magnified. So, to mitigate this you have to use higher quality processes and cleaner (less impurities) glass in order for the sensor to resolve adequate detail. A good resource to understand this more in depth DPReview, CVP Lens Coverage Tests, Zeiss LP/mm tests and Christopher Frost right here on KZbin.

[@csamd9049]

@@CallMeRabbitzUSVI Everything is wrong. It is for large sensors that optics are more difficult to produce, these are the laws of optics, it is for this reason that for small sensors there are fast lenses with a very large focal range, and the diffraction that you are talking about does not exist unless you press F tightly.

[@TheFandangovideoguy]

I need a 4k camcorder for live events...I considered a Canon XF605...and now I see this new Sony...but...why is it missing the third ring on the body? I for sure use them on my old XF300....why was it removed...and also..the f stop range on the lens doesn't sound good at all...F2.8 to f4.5. in APSC terms the f4.5 is what? F7? someone knows...hmm..

[@FruitaBus]

Before I even watch this video, I had a strange dream about looking for a camcorder at local stores and being sad I couldn't afford one lol

[@maxencebriet2372]

Ils The sensor stablelized ?

[@LoightaFluwid]

How does it compare to the XF605 you guys reviewed couple of years ago? They seem very close spec-wise

[@danbrockettDOP]

We have owned the 605 the past few years and it's decent. BUT, very noisy at any ISO above 250 unless you are well lit. Camcorders are not FF low light monsters at all. Based upon this video, the Sony will be better as it's base is 1,600 but its still not going to be clean as an FX3 or 6 in lower light. The zoom range on this camera is far longer than the Canon. This camera is quite a few years newer than the 605 so will have more digital features, and more sophisticated new tech like the Clear Image Zoom, which the Canon has also but this looks better quality. . I will say that the 605 menus, compared to our two C200s and C300 MKII, are actually too complex, I know the C series menus inside out and I always get lost going between the C200s and the XF-605 menus. This new Sony seems to have some nice tech built in. the 605 is good but if I was starting out from scratch, I'd get the Sony over the 605. We have other Canons so for our case, the 605 is a better fit as Sony colors will never match Canon colors. IMHO, having shot a lot of documentaries in adverse conditions, a camcorder is often a better tool for at least some of those type shoots. I've hung off the sides of boats in heavy seas, trekked through muddy jungle trails in the Amazon, shot in a sandstorm in the Sahara and a removable lens cine camera is a detriment in those conditions compared to a camcorder.

[@WupperVideo]

@@danbrockettDOP it really could best the already 3 year old XF605. I really love our XF605, but a longer zoom range is always handy, it’s already cheaper than the Canon and comes with better connectivity. And you don’t need a monthly subscription for the app like from Canon 🤦‍♂️. CF Express Type A is also cheaper than SD cards with V90.

[@danbrockettDOP]

@@WupperVideo Totally agree, this new Sony looks to be pretty sweet for the money. My business partner who bought us the 605 asked me last night if I though this new Sony is better and I had to say, overall, yes. But it gets tricky, we own two C200s, thinking of buying a third (all for multi camera events and live broadcasts) but I also own the FX6 and am contemplating an FX3 for gimbal and B camera to my FX6. We pretty much use the Canons for live, broadcast and live streams and we use Sony for production stuff since no agency, studio or PR firm doing interviews, studio stuff or social media content wants anything besides Sony. If I buy the FX3, afterwards adding the new Sony Z200 would make sense if we were doing more live multi-camera stuff with the Sonys. But I only have three Sony lenses and fourteen EF lenses and am contemplating picking up a pair of the EF 100-400 lenses for events and live shoots. I don't have any long Sony lenses and don't really want to spend a ton on adding long Sony glass when we already own a ton of Canon glass. I don't need long Sony lenses for most production and when I do, I just rent them, like the 200-600 or the 100-400. Live event coverage and stage stuff almost always demands long glass, that's why camcorders like this Sony and the XF605 can be very handy for stage event type of work. Small footprint with insane focal range. I think I have a camera addiction, I own three Canons, a Sony, three Fujifilms, want the XH-2S. How many cameras does one person need? ;-)

[@KeshenMac]

2:20 internal electric ND, 2-7 stops

[@OrdinarySimonTheJoe]

it's 2024 do you know where your camcorder is?

[@Phi3nD]

Can you control this video camera with a remote or LANC controller?

[@luma_productions]

You should be able to. There’s a remote port on the rear of it.

[@spvideo2613]

Can it do Date and Time Stamp recording and output via the HDMI for the Legal Videographer world?

[@spdcrzy]

Yes. Most camcorders can, I believe.

[@spvideo2613]

@@spdcrzy actually most don't now.. That is why I am asking.

[@spdcrzy]

@@spvideo2613 really? That's bizarre.

[@leventebaumann6001]

It would be intresting a FF camcorder with FF, S35, S16 mode from 8k sensor....

[@EffectiveCommunications]

Does it have genlock?

[@sammorganmoore]

but is the EVF any good?

[@AridersLifeYT]

I have a Sony RX10Mk2 and this video samples doesnt seem as crisp as that unit.

[@Arunjdjd]

Available in India can you share the price details??

[@simon_sky]

Does Sony state anything about the cameras IP rating? I remember camcorders to be fairly robust, but would be great to know if rain could harm it. Or did I miss it in the video? 😅

[@ЯпонияЯпония-э9т]

Нельзя воды. Инструкция есть

[@bashiordache]

Was hoping for a xyla test of dynamic range

[@陈一峰-y1r]

SONY should update the RX10s

[@CallMeRabbitzUSVI]

They won't since it would ape their other products. It's the same reason they won't release a new Rx1R

[@POVwithRC]

​@@CallMeRabbitzUSVIIt's never really cannibalization. They are making money off of any product that sells.

[@CallMeRabbitzUSVI]

@@POVwithRC Yes, but if they sold very capable but lower priced point and shoots then they would sell less of the more expensive camcorders. Since (for most people) a beefy rx10 would be more enough and would come in at HALF the price

[@BaldRavenHaired]

Sony atm would never update the rx1 , rx10 or rx100 as all them provide better value for their price and features than current zv lineups . Sony is no longer even trying value , them looking so quick money in a shrinking market

[@JojoJoget]

I think what he meant is put this sensor into an X3000 and have Gopro work harder