XH A1 or HDR-FX1000

Hmmm...this is a pretty tough decision. If the CMOS Rolling Shutter issues aren't that bad, then the FX1000 seems like a good Canon alternative. It has a high-res LCD and EVF, an iris ring (like the Canon), 24p, and Sony's been bragging about its lowlight capabilities. On the other hand, the FX1000 lacks XLR inputs (a dealbreaker for many), has CMOS sensors, and the audio controls don't look promising.
The XH A1, however, also has 24p, an iris ring, and. unlike the Sony, a decent set of audio inputs and controls. It also has CCD sensors. Unfortunately, while the Sony has the best of prosumer camcorder LCD technology, the A1 has the worst. It's hard to focus with efficiently, among other complaints. Also, although I've personally never tested the A1 in such conditions, I've heard the lowlight is less than spectacular.

I can't clearly say which is better, but Canon products have served me well in the past, and, having used it a little bit, I really like using the A1, so I would probably get the A1 over the FX1000. (Although...the FX7, sans 24p, at $2000 is somewhat appealing...)
 
definitely go with the A1. at least judging by the review, it doesn't look like the fx1000 has much to offer in terms of customizing colors and presets. Lack of xlr inputs really sets it back as well. I'm sure it's a fine camera, but for 100 dollars more you can have the a1 which hypothetically should have equal image quality but much better controls.
 
Unfortunately, while the Sony has the best of prosumer camcorder LCD technology, the A1 has the worst. It's hard to focus with efficiently, among other complaints. )

Pannasonic has the worst. Have you seen the LCD on the HVX? The A1 LCD in my opinion is second only to the Sony. It's small but extremely sharp, and focusing on 35mm adapter has always been a breeze for me.
 
Pannasonic has the worst. Have you seen the LCD on the HVX? The A1 LCD in my opinion is second only to the Sony. It's small but extremely sharp, and focusing on 35mm adapter has always been a breeze for me.

I'll vouch for that. I hate using the HVX for critical focus, it's almost useless. The A1 may be small, but as mentioned it has a lot of pixels and the peaking function works well once you learn how to read it effectively.
 
The answer is clear. The sony is currently the better choice. Three position ND filter. Better low light performance. Manual iris ring. Sharper LCD.

CMOS sensors are just fine, so CMOS vs CCD is a moot point.

The only thing the Sony is lacking is the XLR, which can be had on the pro version of the FX1000.
 
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