Quick Camcorder Reviews: Sony HDR-UX1 Camcorder

The Sony HDR-UX1 is undoubtedly one of the most innovative camcorders of the year. Not only is it Sony’s premiere DVD camcorder, it is also one of two models to share the distinction of being the first to use AVCHD, a new high definition format that finally frees HD from the restrictions of tape-based recording. The HDR-SR1 also has a number of other winning features, including a mic input and great manual control. Despite these alluring features, is it worth the investment to become an early adopter? Find out.

 

Let’s look at video performance first. The HDR-UX1 features the 1/3” ClearVID CMOS sensor, the same one found in nearly all of Sony’s top models. It produces great, balanced color in bright light without the oversaturation of camcorders like last year’s DCR-DVD403. In low light, the UX1 stood up quite well against the competition. Our major complaint is the noise, or fuzziness, in the image. This appears to be a result of the AVCHD compression, because other camcorders using the ClearVID chip like the HDR-HC3 (high definition HDV compression) and the DCR-DVD505 (standard definition MPEG-2 compression) did not suffer the same issues. It should be stated that the UX1 is only using AVCHD at half its potential data rate, and future models may better address the problem.

 

The HDR-UX1 marks a change from Sony’s typical consumer camcorder design in a number of ways. First, it’s larger and heavier than you’d expect – at least a quarter to a third larger than most of the mid-line models and a hefty 740g (1 lb. 10 oz). This can make even beefy arms tire after a few minutes of shooting.

 

Secondly, the HDR-UX1 does not sport Sony’s ubiquitous Easy button for one-touch foolproof recording. Despite this omission, newbie users should feel safe shooting. Nobody tops Sony’s automatic controls, on the whole. For the UX1 in particular, the auto exposure and white balance are great. The focus can lag in low light, but in even moderate light it performs very well. The entire menu system has been overhauled for faster navigation, and the big 3.5” LCD makes it a breeze.

 

A lot of people will be swayed by the outstanding manual control set on the HDR-UX1. No, Sony has still not relinquished their rule of restricting aperture and shutter speed control to prosumer and pro models, but what they did include just might satisfy. In addition to standard controls like white balance, Spot Meter, and Spot Focus, the UX1 also has a multifunction ring that controls focus, exposure, AE shift, and WB shift. The ring has a solid, professional feel that puts the controls you want close at hand.

 

Another great feature of the HDR-UX1 is the mic input and headphone jack, adding yet another layer of professionalism. Good sound is an all too frequently overlooked aspect of home production. These ports are your friends. Use them, and make home movies that people will actually want to watch. For that added touch, Sony also includes a remote control jack for powered tripods.

 

 

 

The HDR-UX1 may record HD with the brand new AVCHD compression, but thankfully, you can use the same old DVDs you did with your old DVD camcorder. Acceptable formats include DVD-RW, DVD+RW, DVD+R DL (Dual Layer), and DVD-R. Unfortunately, those discs won’t get you as much mileage as they do in standard definition. In the highest quality, a single layer disc will only 14 minutes of video; dual layer will get you as far as 27 minutes. You can, of course, record in standard definition instead of HD, but the two cannot be mixed together on the same disc.

 

AVCHD is another issue to consider. Because this is such a new format, there are virtually no editing solutions on the market as of this date. Several software manufacturers have signed on for licensing, but those may not appear until early to mid-2007. For now, you’ll have to satisfy yourself with the rudimentary software that Sony provides in the box.

 

Up until just before the HDR-UX1’s release, we were tied on what to name the best DVD camcorder, the DCR-DVD505 or Panasonic’s VDR-D300. Once the UX1 was released, there was really no contest. It provides absolutely everything the DCR-DVD505 offered, plus HD recording, a mic jack, a headphone jack, a redesigned menu, and the multifunction ring. Early adopters may leap at the opportunity to get first crack at new technology like this, but we recommend holding back, at least until a few 3rd party companies have editing solutions in place. The HDR-UX1 is a great camcorder by any measure, so keep your eye on it.