Sony developed the HVR-Z1E HDV camcorder as an addition to its established DVCAM family. Compared with the existing HDR-FX1E consumer HDV model, it provides more than 40 additional functions aimed at professional users.
The HVR-Z1E supports HDV, DV and DVCAM, switches between 50 Hz and 60 Hz operation for PAL and NTSC environments, and provides two balanced XLR audio inputs with independently adjustable levels. Its viewfinder can switch between colour and black-and-white display, and the camcorder supports edge crop when downconverting to 4:3 standard definition.
Sony is also introducing the compact HVR-M10E video recorder. It supports HDV, DVCAM and DV, includes a 16:9 colour LCD, and can operate from either a power supply or batteries.
Both units target broadcasters and filmmakers working with limited budgets, as well as broadcasters acquiring HD material in difficult-to-reach locations. The camcorder costs 5,500 euros and the compact recorder 3,600 euros.
