Although Sony's decision to not develop any progressive modes is curious, the HDR-FX1 still breaks a significant quality barrier, offering fine Mini DV performance as well as breathtaking 1080i high-def images. That is, of course, if you have a proper HD television for viewing the footage.

D. Eric Franks is Videomaker's Technical Editor.

Format: Mini DV and HDV
Lens: F/1.6; fl=4.5 mm to 54 mm; 12x optical zoom; 72mm filter diameter
Image sensor: 3 x 1/3-inch CCD
Gross pixels (per CCD): 1,120K
Video pixels (per CCD): 1,070K
Viewfinder: color (252K pixels, 16:9)
LCD viewscreen: 3.5-inch color (251K pixels, 16:9)
Focus: auto, manual
Anamorphic 16:9: yes
Image Stabilization: optical
Exposure: auto, manual, presets (5)
Minimum Shutter Speed: 1/4
Maximum Shutter Speed: 1/10,000
Iris: auto, manual
Electronic Gain: +18dB
Neutral Density Filter: yes (2)
Zebra Stripes: yes (70%, 100%)
White Balance: auto, manual, presets
Audio: 12-bit (default), 16-bit
Audio Gain: auto, manual
Microphone Input: 1/8-inch stereo mini
Headphone Output: 1/8-inch stereo mini
Inputs: FireWire, S-video, composite
Outputs: FireWire, S-video, composite
Edit Interface: FireWire
Other features: Cinetone/Cineframe modes, 6 Picture Profiles, adjustable image stabilization
Dimensions (w x h x d): 5-15/16 x 7-1/8 14-3/8 (inches)
Weight (sans tape and battery): 4 lbs. 7 oz.

Horizontal Resolution (SD): 450
Horizontal Resolution (HD): 700+ (on 720p set)

• Beautiful, detailed HD video
• Numerous image tweaks
• Usable controls, buttons

• No progressive modes (720p)
• No XLR inputs

The HDR-FX1 shoots high-def video that is clearly superior to standard-definition DV footage.