ZOOM Q8 vs. Sony HDR-MV1 Music Cam Review + Audio/Video Samples

[@hakonsoreide]

It's a nice little video comparison between the two. I was seriously considering a Q8 to replace my current video setup of using a separate camera and audio recorder, but then at the moment it looks like it will still be easier for me to edit audio separately and sync with the video track later anyway, in which case doing it might end up being easier, as well as having some redundancy in possibly being able to save the audio if the video fails, audio being more important, I think, though I am not particularly satisfied with my webcam's so-called HD resolution. I decided to stick to recording audio with my Zoom 4Hn and video with either my webcam or my Panasonic FZ1000, and - instead of getting something new, I decided to get the necessary video capture device to allow the FZ1000 to function as a webcam or a video camera with no recording limits (as you might know, all stills cameras are wingclipped to 30 minutes of continuous recording in the European common market). If I one day do decide to get an all-in-one unit, the Sony looks like a decent option, and one I didn't know about until I found this video.

[@simonmikkelsen]

I have used the Sony for recording my kids for a couple of years. It is very small, fits in a pocket, has the wide lens so often I just aim without looking at the screen and finally decent audio. For this use the downsides are that it is very sensitive to handling noise and even when moving inside it can be noticed in the mics. I have sewn a fur wind screen to fit it - where I had to trim the fur just below the lens. It still often comes in the shot, but makes the camera useable outside. All in all it allows me to play with my kids and record some home video - not being the dad 20 feet away. But I am always looking for a replacement that has mics isolated from the camera and not placed just below the lens. And...I also got a real camcorder with XLR and phantom power. But here we are talking 4-5 times the price and 20 times the weight and size and you cannot get close.

[@calebparkermusic]

Thanks for your input, SImon!

[@BenBrossMusic]

I clicked on your video because I recognized the UI recital hall. Been there, performed there many times. Oh, and love the organ. also in the market to replace my zoom Q2n. thanks for the post.

[@calebparkermusic]

Spot on! Are you an Idaho alum? Hope the video helps with your decision.

[@danielkinney9407]

great video. I bought the Q8 because of the XLR 1/4" jacks

[@calebparkermusic]

Thanks! Glad it helped you make a decision. The XLR jacks are a real plus on the Q8!

[@michaelhenchman]

Great review, thanks. One thing you didn't mention is the dramatic difference in "bending distortion" introduced by the wider angle lens of the Q8, even at distance. Given all the great performance video out there, especially on KZbin, which does not appear distorted in that manner, I would find that the most irritating factor of the Q8, in spite of its better audio channel options, mic capsule options, and the screen rotate capability.

[@juliancwcwcw]

Yea it sounds like the Sony was a better option for you. As a drummer, I wanted a fish eye to capture the whole kit, while having inputs with phantom power is balls out insane on a portable recorder! I actually have the headphone output of my mixing desk plugged into my Zoom Q8....I can mic up and record every part of my kit while also recording the bass player, guitarists and singer. I think the video quality on both the Zoom and Sony are not the best, although the Sony seems to fair a bit better in that department.

[@calebparkermusic]

I'm with you on video quality, they both could really be upgraded. Glad to hear the Q8 works well for you! They're both good units in their own respects.

[@calebparkermusic]

Check out my follow-up video showcasing a further look at the SONY HDR-MV1! Those looking for a further test of the Sony HDR-MV1, please check out my follow-up video! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oGnJcmmuq5hlftE

[@bobbydtv1]

well done , i thinking about getting the zoom myself , when i shoot music videos i use a mixer .I never use the camera alone .I been using a cannon vixia HF r50 , the videos come out amazing and the mixer really helps .Like you said i like the xlr , inputs on the zoom and hoping that could work well but now i am not so sure .

[@DougEsWhURL-tx2bw]

Thanks for the review Caleb. The ZQ8 seem to capture with a brighter resolution, but it did seem unrealistic and distorted. I get that the setting requires less than optimal lighting situation, and I see why you went with Sony for the reasons stated. Thanks again and much success in growing your KZbin audience. 👍🏾👍🏾

[@calebparkermusic]

+DougEsWhURL 2016 Thanks!

[@calebparkermusic]

Check out my follow-up video showcasing a further look at the SONY HDR-MV1! Those looking for a further test of the Sony HDR-MV1, please check out my follow-up video! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oGnJcmmuq5hlftE

[@蕭嘉蓮]

It is still a good choice to buy Sony HDR MV1? Really want to get it! 🤗

[@danielkinney9407]

I wish ZOOM would give you 2 options for the FISH EYE look and then just the Plain. Wonder what they were trying too accomplish by ONLY GOING with the WIDE FISH EYE?

[@calebparkermusic]

Clearly it's a camera meant for getting the "big picture" (pun intended). This is a nice feature if most of what you're doing is filming a large stage at close distances. But for my main use, it's just impractical.

[@Lorahummingbird]

I was about to buy it but have decided not to because of this fish eye limitation :( unfortunate because it seems like a really great camera. I hope they allow different lenses swaps in the near future

[@calebparkermusic]

Lora Bidner I know you are unable to swap lenses with the Sony. If you are able to swap lenses with the Zoom, I am unfamiliar with the process. Sorry!

[@vasilischatzis582]

Hi there! Thanks for spending some time to do the comparison between the two products. Have you checked that the firmware on Q8 has recently been updated and you've got 11 scene settings to choose from? Have a look here!

[@calebparkermusic]

+vasilis chatzis good tip, was unaware. The 160 degree view is too bulbous for me, however, so I will still stick with the Sony.

[@calebparkermusic]

Check out my follow-up video showcasing a further look at the SONY HDR-MV1! Those looking for a further test of the Sony HDR-MV1, please check out my follow-up video! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oGnJcmmuq5hlftE

[@jedidaddy76]

Wish I would have seen your video before I ordered my q8 but that's cool I will still like it way more than my phone for recording.

[@calebparkermusic]

Yes! By no means am I saying the Q8 is a bad camera. I think they're both really good and have strong areas that differ from each other.

[@jedidaddy76]

Caleb Parker thank you brother.

[@timyoung5230]

Hi I think you did a great job with the video.I bought a HDR mv1, and so far I like the camera, but one thing I am having a difficult time with are the tripods (camera stands) that they sent this with, I am finding that I have to stack books on tables to get a good camera setup. It does not look like you had to do this in your video, so I am wondering what you used. Also , I am considering getting some software like final cut pro x, to help me edit, and do some zoom ins for the video. I have a mac, and do not know if there is anything you would recommend.

[@calebparkermusic]

Hi Tim, thanks for the kind words. Regarding tripods, I use an AmazonBasics model you can find at the following link: amzn.to/2bdFBDh . It's cheap, sturdy, light, and even comes with a carrying bag, which is nice. As far as editing software goes, I'm afraid I cannot give great advice in this department as I simply use iMovie. I have a buddy that uses Adobe Premiere and seems to love it. He came from Final Cut Pro and thinks Premiere is much more powerful.

[@calebparkermusic]

Check out my follow-up video showcasing a further look at the SONY HDR-MV1! Those looking for a further test of the Sony HDR-MV1, please check out my follow-up video! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oGnJcmmuq5hlftE

[@timyoung5230]

Thanks I will definitely look into this. The camera is great, but the stuff they sent does`t really work.

[@calebparkermusic]

Tim- Are you looking for better accessories with the camera?

[@maaaa123456]

Thank you for the great review Caleb. I'm looking for a camera that can accommodate an audio signal from my audio recorder, so I can record a video whilst doing a play-back on my guitar, using the audio previously recorded. Is this possible with either of these 2 cameras? Is Zoom equipped with an adjustable audio level from an external source? I want to achieve that the audio signal goes direct from my mixer to the camera, instead of using the built in microphones, so the sound quality is better. Please let me know your thoughts, cheers.

[@calebparkermusic]

Hi batica, first of all, yes the zoom has adjustable ins. The sony does have an input but you'd have to purchase a few odd adapters and such. The zoom is built for this kind of thing. Regarding the guitar playback, I'm not sure i understand what you're asking. What I gather is that you have a previously recorded guitar track, and you want to, essentially, connect your audio interface to the zoom, press play on the computer and have the audio recorded into the camera while you shoot a video. Is that correct? If that's the case, I don't see why this wouldn't work, but I can't say for sure. I do not own the zoom camera, but this seems like a reasonable feature.

[@maaaa123456]

That is correct, I want to use a previously recorder track, and have the audio recorded into the camera while shooting a video. (I take it, this would produce much better audio quality than playing the audio thru a hi-fi and record the sound via camera built - in mics). Zoom looks fine except for that fish eye issue, but looks like with the zoom-in adjustment - the affect is not that bad. Thanks for your help.

[@VJFranzK]

Doesn't the HDR footage look dim? I'd want to see more variety of clips

[@calebparkermusic]

On the contrary, I'd say the Zoom footage is overexposed. I'm not a "videophile", I simply wanted something to archive performances and the HDR does the trick for me!

[@jnagime]

*Have the Sony for years now great cam,but now the videos are blurry(not clean like yours)do you know why this is happening,Thanks*

[@calebparkermusic]

Hmm.. really couldn't say! Have you tried cleaning the lens? Or perhaps has it been stored in a damp environment and moisture may have gotten trapped in the lens? I would contact sony to see what thoughts they might have.

[@jnagime]

@@calebparkermusic maybe is the ambiente light? Now I have a bright ones,so I have more lights now than before

[@tclarkson2000]

Awesomely helpful, thank you!!

[@calebparkermusic]

Glad this helped you, Tim!

[@Liberty-bc3su]

Thanks for the video. Question please: can mixer be connected to Zoom q8? I'm trying to record guitar and mic together through the mixer. Thanx

[@danielkinney9407]

what camera are you using to do this video? just curious why it's showing backwards? Like on your keyboard is backwards.

[@calebparkermusic]

I used the Sony HDR-MV1 and when editing the video I flipped it, so that's why things may be backwards. :)

[@calebparkermusic]

Those looking for a further test of the Sony HDR-MV1, please check out my follow-up video! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oGnJcmmuq5hlftE

[@майорФранц-БойноучениеТИУН]

thank you!!!

[@strangersound]

Excellent comparison. The Sony definitely delivers better quality video and the microphones were giving a full and balanced representation of what you sound like in that room, definitely good quality audio. But if you really want the features of the Zoom, which are far from lacking, or you want to shoot skate videos, get the Zoom. The wide angle that camera delivers is pretty impressive. Cheers, thanks for the valuable look at these cameras. Cheers! :)

[@calebparkermusic]

Thanks, strangersound! They both have great features for different purposes. Cheers!

[@AveMcree]

that random guy playing the organ is amazing... put some respeck on his name

[@calebparkermusic]

First name is Stuart! Didn't get a last name and have never seen him again. He was good though, and a great sport!

[@AveMcree]

Caleb Parker oh.. It was a old meme joke from Birdman. I do have a quick question. Can the Sony be a Webcam?

[@calebparkermusic]

Ave Mcree haha I know, but the guy does deserve credit! I have not tried using it as a webcam, but I would assume the answer is no. I also found a QA on BHPhoto and they say it can't be done, so I assume they've tried and failed.

[@AveMcree]

Caleb Parker thanks for replying

[@jamyangnorbu7895]

How did you use your smart phone to compensate for the Sony no having a flip-out screen.

[@calebparkermusic]

Sony has an app for smartphones called PlayMemories Mobile. The app connects to your camera and you can remotely record/pause from your phone and see what the camera is seeing. It's actually very handy since you can be seated away from the camera and still control it.

[@jamyangnorbu7895]

Thanks a lot

[@calebparkermusic]

Jamyang Norbu no problem!

[@RyansRecording]

Very informative thanks but I would like to know if any of the cameras has a remote control. My plan is to buy tow Video cam under $200 to record piano from the left and the right side one closer to the keys I'm sure you understand what I mean but it seems like none of the cameras I have seen so far, has a remote control unless you have an iPhone which I don't, do anyone have a suggestion.

[@calebparkermusic]

The Zoom Q8 does not have a remote. The Sony HDR-MV1 has an application (like you mentioned) that acts as a remote is you have a smart phone (samsung or iPhone). Unfortunately I don't have any advice, particularly if you're looking to spend less than $200 for two cameras. Best of luck in your search!

[@Lorahummingbird]

does anyone know if there is a way to switch out lenses? the 160 degree, wide angle, fish eye look seems like a bit of a game changer, it doesn't look normal.

[@calebparkermusic]

I know you are unable to swap lenses with the Sony. If you are able to swap lenses with the Zoom, I am unfamiliar with the process. Sorry!

[@macknolan410]

Caleb can you plug microphones into the Sony with any type of 4 channel mixer like the Zoom?

[@calebparkermusic]

Mack- I presume it would be possible but you would need to run an adapter through 1/8" to be able to connect to the Sony. Not sure what that would do to your sound quality.

[@calebparkermusic]

Check out my follow-up video showcasing a further look at the SONY HDR-MV1! Those looking for a further test of the Sony HDR-MV1, please check out my follow-up video! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oGnJcmmuq5hlftE

[@Eduardoinaciogarcia]

nice man, how much time does it record nonstoping?

[@calebparkermusic]

Good question! I've never tested it's capabilities, but if you're talking storage it will depend on the size of the memory card you have. Additionally, if you're talking power-wise, I highly recommend purchasing the compatible AC adapter so you can keep it plugged in and it will shoot for as long as you have memory without you having to worry about the charge level!

[@theodorealfano9278]

That was a good review. Thanks a lot.

[@calebparkermusic]

Thanks for watching, Theodore!

[@44551mike]

If I wanna record vocal thru the mixer , mv1 or zoom q8 better ?

[@calebparkermusic]

Nice thing about zoom is it has xlr inputs so you can use other professional Mics. If you're just using the built in Mics, I'd go with the Sony.

[@calebparkermusic]

Check out my follow-up video showcasing a further look at the SONY HDR-MV1! Those looking for a further test of the Sony HDR-MV1, please check out my follow-up video! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oGnJcmmuq5hlftE

[@zleepyjan]

Thank you.

[@MartinFabricius]

Very helpful! Thank you :0)

[@calebparkermusic]

You're very welcome!

[@danielkinney9407]

i wish the ZOOM Q8 would show the same as the Sony. I have heard reviews about the FISH EYE look.

[@calebparkermusic]

Check out my follow-up video showcasing a further look at the SONY HDR-MV1! Those looking for a further test of the Sony HDR-MV1, please check out my follow-up video! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oGnJcmmuq5hlftE

[@RA-el6zj]

Which one has better audio quality?

[@calebparkermusic]

Sony

[@RA-el6zj]

@@calebparkermusic Thnx. That's interesting. I have a Zoom Q2n-4k right now. It's audio quality is very good. I can't imagine it being even better. But im sending it back anyway because the video is crap.

[@jpstoybricks472]

is the q8 more "fish-eyed"? or can that be adjusted?

[@calebparkermusic]

It does have a fish-eye effect which cannot be changed. If you crop the actual video it's a tiny bit less noticeable but nonetheless a fish-eye.

[@calebparkermusic]

Check out my follow-up video showcasing a further look at the SONY HDR-MV1! Those looking for a further test of the Sony HDR-MV1, please check out my follow-up video! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oGnJcmmuq5hlftE

[@marylkelly]

Anyone know if you can zoom in with the Sony HDR- MV1?

[@calebparkermusic]

Mary Kelly you cannot!

[@MrBaldjogger]

Mary Kelly noyoucan not Zion with sony

[@customtheatres]

Sadly another disappointing video camera in the Zoom. Where it shines is in line in audio. And the built in XY mics are very good too. Hopefully the next Zoom will have the video quality of a DSLR unless they decide to go 4K and raise the price considerably. If they do I'm sure it will sell like hot cakes and compete with super expensive broadcast cameras

[@calebparkermusic]

customtheatres agreed on all counts!

[@MrMftech]

Excellent review, very concise...

[@calebparkermusic]

Thanks +Michel!

[@marclove1159]

Both cameras suck. The Q8 has extreme fisheye which is irritating as hell. The Sony has the display panel on the side, making it totally awkward to use. I would never buy either one.

[@calebparkermusic]

Hi Marc, this video is simply a review and report on the two cameras. I'm not trying to sell anyone on either. Not sure why you would watch let alone comment if you don't even like the cameras- do you have an alternative camera option to offer to everyone here?

[@Mozart27January]

Zoom Audio is better than Sony. Definitely.

[@calebparkermusic]

Mozart27January glad someone is sticking up for the zoom 😊

[@alexanderpavtchinskii2971]

organ player judging audio, funny. Sony sounded like my Android phone

[@calebparkermusic]

You're welcome for the review :)

[@diverandy1]

Less um and more information? Not helpful at all, in fact.

[@calebparkermusic]

OR or... just don't watch the video. In fact your comment was terribly unhelpful. Please less typing and more getting-the-fuck-out-of-here. :)