New inexpensive Sony, 1920x1080 60p • 24Mbps

I had a bit of luck yesterday My one customer gave me the go ahead to get a HX9v for a defence project we are diong and I get to keep the baby for future use. I Just hope it does not get damaged by one of the warheads. I am very keen to see the result when the warhead goes off.

HHL I garther you saw the later this month launch of the new Sony NEX-7 and NEX-VG20 those specs (will be able to record FullHD videos in 1080 60/50/25/24p at 28Mbit/s, All camera will support full manual controls while recording video.optimized to avoid artifacts like the weird jello effect) I would want to get NEX-7, this would be great value I would judge the cost would be in and around about +/- 1200usd.
 
Here is a video taken with the Hx9v *without* any heavy post-processing and without external mechanical aids (tripod, stabilizer, viewfinder) and with its own audio. The original unprocessed 108060p video can also be downloaded, so no "processing" error excuses for quality. Has wide scenes, extreme telephoto shots, macro shots, indoor shots, selective focus with blurred background. And, you see Richmond, Virginia as you have never before. But the point is it shows more what the camera can do. I know a good professional with software can make any camera look good.

http://www.vimeo.com/27262492
 
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This not a "stellar" video by any means. However, it is a good example of how the HX9 "tools" (superzoom, 1080/60P, good DR for a compact camera) can present the opportunity for some good shots....even if the shooter isn't "right on the money". I see some usable shots in here for sure. A bit boring to sit there and watch it all, but, a good example of the above info IMHO. :) Enjoy!

 
I had a bit of luck yesterday My one customer gave me the go ahead to get a HX9v for a defence project we are diong and I get to keep the baby for future use. I Just hope it does not get damaged by one of the warheads. I am very keen to see the result when the warhead goes off.

HHL I garther you saw the later this month launch of the new Sony NEX-7 and NEX-VG20 those specs (will be able to record FullHD videos in 1080 60/50/25/24p at 28Mbit/s, All camera will support full manual controls while recording video.optimized to avoid artifacts like the weird jello effect) I would want to get NEX-7, this would be great value I would judge the cost would be in and around about +/- 1200usd.

Congrats to you for sure! Way cool! Good luck on your project, please share when you receive the cam and when you shoot some footy too! :)

Yes, I've heard the rumors. I hope they bring some more great tools to the table. :)
 
Came back from working on a small project together with this little camera on Austria's highest mountain (above 3000m).
Weather conditions were not always easy and the camera preformed remarkably....

As expected, battery life was shorter in the cold environment so few of them helped me pass the day.

btw, I have posted a camera review here: http://www.cinema5d.com/news/?p=7468


Thanks!

Johnnie
 
After this weekend I can see why this little camera, is so liked. So far I was able to do very rough tests due to work , was able to fined a plastic pipe seal flange ring used on the bottom of a bath or basin that fits over the front of the first part of the lens so I am able to mount a 52mm step up ring which will allow me to use ND and CLP on the camera.
also able to fit a old flash grip and LCD eye loupe . When I am finished I will post the pictures.
 
Finally got a chance to play with the cam again this weekend. A joy to use on a really hot (103 degrees...) day. A lot easier than lugging around a DSLR. Pretty bright outside so excuse some of the strobing motion. It did alright indoors in the bookstore as well.


Thanks for looking.

Tony
 
Finally got a chance to play with the cam again this weekend. A joy to use on a really hot (103 degrees...) day. A lot easier than lugging around a DSLR. Pretty bright outside so excuse some of the strobing motion. It did alright indoors in the bookstore as well.


Thanks for looking.

Tony

Thanks for posting. Just curious....what's your take of the HX9? Have you ever owned/shot video with another compact camera?
 
Ok, to answer a few questions:

No, it will not run off of AC power so your going to have to get some spare batteries. I've got a generic one on the way with a combo charger for wall outlet and cigarette lighter that I will review after I receive it.

I don't know if the NTSC models have the 29:59 time limit like the PAL models. The battery will definitely last longer that 30 minutes though.

My take on the HX9V:

I have never owned a point and shoot compact before this one. What I HAVE been shooting on are the following.... hacked gh1, stock gh2, panasonic SDT750 camcorder...

For the best image quality, low light capability, and cinematic feel I would have to say that the GH2 is pretty close to the best I have. The hacked gh1 is no slouch, but it's missing some features that make the gh2 an easier camera to work with.
The Panasonic camcorder shoots 1080p60, is tack sharp, great image stabilization and has a very good amount of manual control as well. Great run and gun camera and pretty small as well.

The HX9V though, being the runt of the litter so to speak is ALWAYS with me. Honestly, it sits in my shoulder bag that I take to my regular job every day. Along with it I have room for a handle grip and my LCDVF clone. It's so convenient in that it has a tiny footprint that I wouldn't hesitate to take it along anywhere. In good light the video quality is superb, and for the size of the sensor it doesn't do too badly in low light either as long as you're not expecting it to do miracles. I've seen some posts on other forums where guys (that don't even own the camera...) keep ranting about how it couldn't possibly be used in a pro environment and yet we've seen a wonderful example of some BBC footage that made it to broadcast.

I personally love the camera, even taking into account it's weaknesses. Sure, you don't have the control that you would have with a good DSLR, but since it's such a no brainer you're able to SHOOT SPONTANEOUSLY and for the most part, the camera gets it right. Could it be better? Sure, but so could all the other cameras I have. Is it an amazing machine for the price point? Yup, no doubt about it. Bottom line is that it's just FUN to use and you never really get over the fact that you're shooting some damn high quality video with amazing stabilization with something about the size of a pack of smokes.

There will always be bashers, but let them rant. I'm having a blast with the camera and only wish I had more time to figure out ways to make it shine.

Hope that answers your question HHL...

Tony
 
I did a test , useing 8gig card , it records 29.59 file size is 5.44 gig s' and you get 39min's shooting at 50p , once it stops you can start recording with very little delay , a second / second and half , 16 gigs gives you 79min's. Hope it helps.The one reason I wanted to get the HX9V was that our film permit system is far to expensive for any small producers , only very big companies and overseas flim producers can aford it .I am now able to shoot footage with out been hasseled or fined .
 
Okay, you guys piqued my interest in the HX9V. Should have it Monday. :)

AWESOME! :) Can't wait to see your footy. I will continue to contend that the HX9 is the GREATEST camera in the world, because as Tony so eloquently pointed out....it's ALWAYS in his pocket, my pocket, and now your pocket....like I call it: PocketCinematography! It's NOT a PROFESSIONAL tool. But under the right conditions and in the right hands....it is perilously CLOSE. Have fun!!!

ps...I know there are many cameras that are better....just not any that fit in your pocket and cost 350.
 
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Ok, to answer a few questions:

No, it will not run off of AC power so your going to have to get some spare batteries. I've got a generic one on the way with a combo charger for wall outlet and cigarette lighter that I will review after I receive it.

I don't know if the NTSC models have the 29:59 time limit like the PAL models. The battery will definitely last longer that 30 minutes though.

My take on the HX9V:

I have never owned a point and shoot compact before this one. What I HAVE been shooting on are the following.... hacked gh1, stock gh2, panasonic SDT750 camcorder...

For the best image quality, low light capability, and cinematic feel I would have to say that the GH2 is pretty close to the best I have. The hacked gh1 is no slouch, but it's missing some features that make the gh2 an easier camera to work with.
The Panasonic camcorder shoots 1080p60, is tack sharp, great image stabilization and has a very good amount of manual control as well. Great run and gun camera and pretty small as well.

The HX9V though, being the runt of the litter so to speak is ALWAYS with me. Honestly, it sits in my shoulder bag that I take to my regular job every day. Along with it I have room for a handle grip and my LCDVF clone. It's so convenient in that it has a tiny footprint that I wouldn't hesitate to take it along anywhere. In good light the video quality is superb, and for the size of the sensor it doesn't do too badly in low light either as long as you're not expecting it to do miracles. I've seen some posts on other forums where guys (that don't even own the camera...) keep ranting about how it couldn't possibly be used in a pro environment and yet we've seen a wonderful example of some BBC footage that made it to broadcast.

I personally love the camera, even taking into account it's weaknesses. Sure, you don't have the control that you would have with a good DSLR, but since it's such a no brainer you're able to SHOOT SPONTANEOUSLY and for the most part, the camera gets it right. Could it be better? Sure, but so could all the other cameras I have. Is it an amazing machine for the price point? Yup, no doubt about it. Bottom line is that it's just FUN to use and you never really get over the fact that you're shooting some damn high quality video with amazing stabilization with something about the size of a pack of smokes.

There will always be bashers, but let them rant. I'm having a blast with the camera and only wish I had more time to figure out ways to make it shine.

Hope that answers your question HHL...

Tony

Yes Tony. You certainly did! And I sincerely could NOT have said it better myself! I too have it in my pocket at all times! I agree completely that there are many DSLRs that are better....but I wouldn't carry with me EVERYWHERE. (I'm not going to say each point that I agree with because I'll end up repeating everything you said....only it won't be as eloquent!) Thanks for taking time to write this Tony!
 
AWESOME! :) Can't wait to see your footy. I will continue to contend that the HX9 is the GREATEST camera in the world, .

I seriously considered buying one these past few weeks, but in the end went with a Panasonic SD90 for $399. 1080P60 at 28Mbps, proper manual controls, tiltable LCD, microphone input, body weight about the same as the HX9 (the battery is a bit heavier) and 4.5" long compared to 4.1" for the Sony. Smaller sensor (1/4") but for me, since my priority is video, it's a better companion to my GH2.
 
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I keep seeing references to the new 1080 60p cameras using sensors that produce 30 fps. What's up with that? How do they extrapolate 60 from 30?
 
I keep seeing references to the new 1080 60p cameras using sensors that produce 30 fps. What's up with that? How do they extrapolate 60 from 30?

They just frame-double, as far as I can tell - Panasonic GF3 is one example. And many of the review sites do a lousy job of distinguishing cameras producing true 60P from those producing '60P from 30P'.
 
I seriously considered buying one these past few weeks, but in the end went with a Panasonic SD90 for $399. 1080P60, proper manual controls, tiltable LCD, microphone input, body weight about the same as the HX9 (the battery is a bit heavier) and 4.5" long compared to 4.1" for the Sony. For me, since my priority is video, it's a better companion to my GH2.
Sweet! I'll have to check that out!!!
 
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