Sony FDR-AX700 4K

Sony FDR-AX700 Introduction Video

Sony FDR-AX700 Overview

In a world where it’s certain that smartphone cameras will just get better at taking video, why would you still need to lug around a camcorder? The answer is not that simple, but it can be boiled down to this: such devices are still necessary.

A smartphone camera can do the most basic job asked of camcorders. It also has the added benefit of being tucked into pockets quite comfortably. But for all their convenience, they still can’t match the image quality and advanced features offered by high-quality camcorders.

Sony has been a pioneer in the camcorder field, and their FDR-AX700 4K HDR camcorder is a testament to their dedication to giving users the artistic freedom to create stunning videos, either for personal consumption or public broadcast.

The FDR-AX700 may look like any other camcorder released in previous years, but its what it can do that counts. With the combination of true-to-life 4K HDR and a 1.0-type stacked Exmor RS CMOS sensor, images are rendered just as you see it. And ensuring pivotal moments are never missed is a Fast Hybrid AF. All of these working together make the FDR-AX700 a reliable camcorder to take no matter what the occasion.

Design & Features 

The Sony FDR-AX700 looks and feels just like a regular modern camcorder. It’s pretty easy to hold, coming in at a little over seven inches long and a little short of four inches wide. The camera feels light and as such, won’t cause as much discomfort when shooting for an extended period.

Of all its features, the 4K video resolution is the one that will most likely jump at consumers as it allows the capture of far greater detail. Stunning image quality is also aided by High Dynamic Range (HDR), which ensures that colors come out right. And making the capture of HDR images easy is Hybrid Log-Gamma (HLG) recording.

The FDR-AX700 is designed for advanced movie production but allows users to achieve great results without too much complications. It is equipped with a series of manual controls to give users more command over its use. Previewing and monitoring shots are made easy thanks to a 2359k dots high-resolution electronic viewfinder and 3.5-inch Extra Fine LCD touch panel. The camcorder is also equipped with dual memory card slots to allow extended relay recording or simultaneous backup recording.

With 273 phase-detection autofocus points, the FDR-AX700 has a deadly accurate AF system that easily locks onto subjects and tracks them as they move. It even works well on unpredictable subjects like animals in the wild. All this is made possible with the help of a high-speed BIONZ X image processing engine and an advanced new movie AF algorithm.

Designed for advanced movie production, the FDR-AX700 is equipped with a range of versatile, professional-style functions. You can perform color grading during post-production with S-Gamut and S-Log shooting. More can also be done during post with S-log2 and S-log3 profiles (frequently used by professionals to enhance their videos). You can also view slow-motion movies with great detail during playback thanks to variable frame-rate recording up to 960fps (NTSC) and 1000 fps (PAL).

Complementing all of this is a 29.0mm wide-angle ZEISs Vario-Sonnar T* lens with 12x optical zoom that allows you to bring more of the action on the screen.

The FDR-AX700 supports AVCHD, MPEG4, and XAVC video formats. Still capture is possible with results delivered in the JPEG format. Other features include a built-in stereo microphone and connectivity options (WiFi and NFC). 

Pros & Cons 

Pros 

• It is lightweight and easy to carry.
• Internal Gimbal
• It delivers 4K HDR images.
• It focuses and locks onto subjects quickly.
• It has professional-level movie production features.
• More professional options can be added via the top mount
• Very good for Vlogging.

Cons 

• It is lacking some more advanced production functionality.

Final Thoughts

The Sony FDR-AX700 is packed with professional-level functions but advanced professionals will be looking for more. At the same time, home users will appreciate the level of quality offered but will most likely not be interested in the advanced features.

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