I bought my first camcorder this year, the Sony FDR-AX43, and I'm never going back to DSLRs or mirrorless cameras for videos. I'm not a professional videographer; I use cameras as a hobby. Camcorders are awesome! They provide good quality video, a great zoom range, and quick shooting capabilities. Previously, shooting a video during a road trip or any other occasion was a very painful experience. I had to consider so many factors, deal with a lot of settings, and sometimes missed the best moments. But with camcorders, everything is perfect. Yes, the video quality in low light isn't great, but I don't care-it's so much easier to use. The stabilization is amazing, and the best feature is the zoom. When using my DSLR or mirrorless camera, I had to carry multiple lenses, and switching between them was a hassle. Plus, good lenses are incredibly expensive. With my camcorder, I got a 25mm-600mm lens with a built-in gimbal. Once again, I'm never going back to DSLRs or mirrorless cameras for video.
That's why they're the goats!!! I once heard someone say "videographers make edits for other videographers" which really hit home, a lot of these things are things only other videographers will notice. Getting the shot and having FUN getting the shot always matters the most in the long run!
it's great in a multi-cam set-up for long live events - the zoom is awesome, the focus is better, the file size is smaller and it is more ergonomical that dslr
I have been a wedding videographer for 5 years. I started my activity with an AX700. Today I make film-reportages of up to 60 minutes and for civil and religious/secular ceremonies I use 3 cameras in multicam: 1 LUMIX S5iix camera as the main camera in proresRAW and 2 AX700 that I use in HLG. The 3 cameras are at 4500 K. This is how I manage to calibrate the 3 cameras.
Great video. I’ve had this camera for a while now and you just reminded me why I don’t use it. Video quality isn’t near what my Lumix cameras provide. It will probably be on eBay by the end of the day.😂
Love this camcorder.. been thinking about it. It is still bulky. More expensive than RX100VII. Should look into second hand market. Good review about this camcorder thanks
I use an ADR-AX53 for "news" style coverage. That is, outdoor speeches for local politicians and small presentations. It is well stabilized and has "over 20x" zoom (I don't like using the zoom over 20x, but yes, it will), etc. For backup and for "specialty" recording I can use my Lumix G85.
great shots with that camera . i found the optical steady shot in the fdr ax 53 has been invaluable . it is kinda like a gimbal in the camera with digital and i think sensor stabilization combined . i do not think the sensor stabilization and digital stabilization in things like the fx3 has caught up to the stability on offer by the ax 53 . if the ax 700 has optical steady shot that would be incredible
Man this is thee video I've been looking for. I also shoot wedding plus many quinceaneras and I've been searching to see if a camcorder would work for my events. I shoot with Panasonic s5iis but would like to add a camcorder just for extra footage and angles. I may invest in the ax700 after watching your video
I have a Sony Ax43 as a wide shot stationary camera for my church where I have a Sony fs5 as the main camera. I have been looking at getting two more cameras and this video has persuaded me to check out the ax700 as a viable option thank you!
Thank you very much for your video. I also have the AX 700 so I wanted to ask, what plate and rig are you using or would recommend for it? Are there any other accessories you would recommend for it? Thanks.
I have a Manfrotto monopod & tripod for it, the quick release for it fits perfectly with how long this camcorder is making for the fast battery swap a breeze. The audio from the handycam is great by itself but if you wanted it to be more focused on one subject, I'd suggest either a shotgun mic for vlogs or a wireless mic for more pro things like behind the scenes or interviews, etc. I personally have the DJI Mic for it and it's an awesome combo! You'll need a Sony to cold shoe adapter though, so that's minorly annoying lol Lastly, I have a Tiffen Glimmerglass 1 on there too! It really only softens the skin and blooms the highlights, not the entire image like a Black Pro Mist would.
I'm scared they may not be one as many of these companies are pulling back from camcorders, idk if they sell well enough. But I'll try to stay as updated on them as I can!!!
The AX700 camcorder has been discontinued, which is making me hopeful that we are about to see a replacement for it and the Z90v, but I am kind of afraid that they will put the new Z200 sensor in it, which makes a horribly muddy image. I am a sucker for camcorders, especially the prosumer compact sized ones, as my first real camera was a VX2100. Holding off for a bit before I end up with a Z90V because it’s the only camera out there now that fits the need, but it is so old now I kinda want something new new.
Man, I would absolutely love it if these companies could keep releasing new camcorders. It doesn't seem like they will though, seems like most people assume they're old tech or something
@@DolisterFilms I really am a sucker for them. Used my XF100 the other day on an ice fishing video - being able to use the viewfinder alone was so much better than even my FX6 for that situation. Latest camcorder form Sony is the AX43, and all they did with that was take the viewfinder off of the AX53! Why?! Viewfinders rule! Really hoping we see a very cool new compact camcorder from Sony, and Canon this year. All Sony would have to do is put 4K in the VX2100 body and then myself and many tens of thousands of other people who grew up filming skateboarding would lose it! I would settle for an updated Z90V sized camcorder though - modernize the body a bit and widen that lens out to 24mm, I'd be happy! Same for Canon, put the XF605 sensor in the XF100 body, not the XA75 body where they combined it with an XA camera, oof, and I would be sooo happy! Heck, I'd love to see Sony make a version of the DCR-PC series camera again, and also a HDR-HC9 style camcorder. Both of those were brilliant. Not as big of a fan of the giant barrel of the AX53, and don't love the BOSS system. Think it's goofy.
I’ve had a mix of Canon XA10 and XA11 camcorders that I’ve used for years. I’m looking at the XA60, as I want to record in 4K. I’ve checked a lot of Canon articles and the XA60 will look and behave as my older camcorders, thus very little learning curve. New batch of gigs on my calendar this Spring and looking forward to recording in 4K.
Considering the built in ND filter, zoom lens with f2.8 maximum aperture, stabilization and body designed specifically for video, we actually paying the same amount of money equivalent to a very fine mirrorless setup. But, man .... still the price makes me think carefully and since many are already out of production, supports like batteries might be an issue.
The FDR-AX700 was released back in 2017, and has been discontinued. I suppose you could buy one used, or still may be able to find a new copy somewhere, but pretty hard to recommend in 2024/2025. Sony did release the new HXR-NX800 in 2024, which is a professional camcorder with a 1" sensor. At $3,300 USD, it's a lot more expensive than the AX700 - but worth it IMO as it is a massive upgrade over the AX700. I hope Sony will release a proper successor to the AX700 at some point, ideally by taking the lens and sensor from the NX800 and putting them in a smaller, more prosumer focused body.
Tbh all i wanted is a camcoder with the capabilities of lumix gh7 or sony fx30 But noooo corporations just decide that all people wanted slr body or you peasant can just buy a fx6 🤪
Get them while you can - Sony and Canon have pulled the plug on their lower end range. It's only Panasonic that are flying the flag with the introduction of two 'new' 'corders - God bless them!
Oh no! I've got 2 of this model so, I'm hoping that'll do me well for years. Even as just a personal cam. I'd love to check out the higher end Panasonic ones. It's a shame companies aren't committing to 'corders anymore!
@@DolisterFilms Don't worry - High end, traditional style video cameras (as opposed to 'corders = casual consumer), will be around for some time, Pro's demand them. These include Sony and Canon as well. Speaking personally; I'm thinking of getting a high(ish) ender for the 50/60fps that they offer that I would really, really like but, they come with a steep learning curve. Were it not for this fps headache my current Panny 'corders would have been just perfect for me. Lastly: Whereas Panasonic are flying the flag for 'corders they have pulled the plug on their accessories including, larger batteries, battery chargers, mics., bagged kits, video lights, etc. It's all rather depressing.
Hey man, I'm a freelance designer, can I help you design some artworks to use as merch print for your fans to buy and it can help me to afford a camcorder too?
Ни разу не пожалел что купил ее) для съемок праздников и домашнего видео безальтернативный зум))) все таки репортажная камера гораздо удобнее для съемок каких либо событий, чем бегать и переводить фокус с одного человека на другого
I stop use them because of the shallow depth of field impossibility. If they had a decent sensor size, at least, micro 4/3, I bet people start using them again. In the end, They capture worse video than a photo camera. That's the truth
I bought my first camcorder this year, the Sony FDR-AX43, and I'm never going back to DSLRs or mirrorless cameras for videos. I'm not a professional videographer; I use cameras as a hobby. Camcorders are awesome! They provide good quality video, a great zoom range, and quick shooting capabilities.
Previously, shooting a video during a road trip or any other occasion was a very painful experience. I had to consider so many factors, deal with a lot of settings, and sometimes missed the best moments. But with camcorders, everything is perfect. Yes, the video quality in low light isn't great, but I don't care-it's so much easier to use.
The stabilization is amazing, and the best feature is the zoom. When using my DSLR or mirrorless camera, I had to carry multiple lenses, and switching between them was a hassle. Plus, good lenses are incredibly expensive.
With my camcorder, I got a 25mm-600mm lens with a built-in gimbal. Once again, I'm never going back to DSLRs or mirrorless cameras for video.
That's why they're the goats!!! I once heard someone say "videographers make edits for other videographers" which really hit home, a lot of these things are things only other videographers will notice. Getting the shot and having FUN getting the shot always matters the most in the long run!
I miss my fleet. I had an AX100 and CX900 at the same time. It was amazing! Best camcorder series ever!
Excellent video!
Fantastic editing! Great content!
thank you so much man! idk why I'm seeing these comments so late, you're the best!
it's great in a multi-cam set-up for long live events - the zoom is awesome, the focus is better, the file size is smaller and it is more ergonomical that dslr
They never even get hot either!
I have been a wedding videographer for 5 years. I started my activity with an AX700. Today I make film-reportages of up to 60 minutes and for civil and religious/secular ceremonies I use 3 cameras in multicam: 1 LUMIX S5iix camera as the main camera in proresRAW and 2 AX700 that I use in HLG. The 3 cameras are at 4500 K. This is how I manage to calibrate the 3 cameras.
Great video. I’ve had this camera for a while now and you just reminded me why I don’t use it. Video quality isn’t near what my Lumix cameras provide. It will probably be on eBay by the end of the day.😂
your welcome for the help? lol
Love this camcorder.. been thinking about it. It is still bulky. More expensive than RX100VII. Should look into second hand market. Good review about this camcorder thanks
Absolutely, I believe I got both of mine on ebay
I use an ADR-AX53 for "news" style coverage. That is, outdoor speeches for local politicians and small presentations. It is well stabilized and has "over 20x" zoom (I don't like using the zoom over 20x, but yes, it will), etc. For backup and for "specialty" recording I can use my Lumix G85.
I'm sure it's great for that! People are missing out on how good the zoom is.
great shots with that camera . i found the optical steady shot in the fdr ax 53 has been invaluable . it is kinda like a gimbal in the camera with digital and i think sensor stabilization combined . i do not think the sensor stabilization and digital stabilization in things like the fx3 has caught up to the stability on offer by the ax 53 . if the ax 700 has optical steady shot that would be incredible
Yes! It has both standard and active steady shot! I just didn't know how to showcase that in the video 🤣
Make nice tutorial of the camera, that would be awesome as i dont really see any on youtube.
Ooooooo that's a really good idea! It'll take me some time but I could probably do that!
@ that would be great
Man this is thee video I've been looking for. I also shoot wedding plus many quinceaneras and I've been searching to see if a camcorder would work for my events. I shoot with Panasonic s5iis but would like to add a camcorder just for extra footage and angles. I may invest in the ax700 after watching your video
I think they've actually went WAY down in price since this video came out too! Good luck! :)
The best feature of those cameras is Zoom.I m planning to buy only because of that
I have a Sony Ax43 as a wide shot stationary camera for my church where I have a Sony fs5 as the main camera. I have been looking at getting two more cameras and this video has persuaded me to check out the ax700 as a viable option thank you!
Awesome! This would be great for that. They have a clean HDMI out and you can just plug em in with the DC In for power and just let it roll 🎬
@ thank you for the reply. Good to know it’s a clean HDMI out!
Thanks for sharing. I was on the fence about 1 inch type of camcorder. Between Sony AX700 and Canon XA70/75, which one will you recommend?
Depends on what other cameras you might be pairing/matching colors with. But! I'd recommend the Sony, handycams have been around forever for a reason!
oh boi !!! i can see the price tag rising up now !!!
Nah, these have been expensive regardless of youtube video reviews.
Thank you very much for your video. I also have the AX 700 so I wanted to ask, what plate and rig are you using or would recommend for it? Are there any other accessories you would recommend for it? Thanks.
I have a Manfrotto monopod & tripod for it, the quick release for it fits perfectly with how long this camcorder is making for the fast battery swap a breeze.
The audio from the handycam is great by itself but if you wanted it to be more focused on one subject, I'd suggest either a shotgun mic for vlogs or a wireless mic for more pro things like behind the scenes or interviews, etc. I personally have the DJI Mic for it and it's an awesome combo! You'll need a Sony to cold shoe adapter though, so that's minorly annoying lol
Lastly, I have a Tiffen Glimmerglass 1 on there too! It really only softens the skin and blooms the highlights, not the entire image like a Black Pro Mist would.
у меня приделана ручка чтобы удобней было держать в горячем башмаке и иногда использую стедикам scorp-c )
When will the successor to the AX700 be?
I'm scared they may not be one as many of these companies are pulling back from camcorders, idk if they sell well enough.
But I'll try to stay as updated on them as I can!!!
The AX700 camcorder has been discontinued, which is making me hopeful that we are about to see a replacement for it and the Z90v, but I am kind of afraid that they will put the new Z200 sensor in it, which makes a horribly muddy image. I am a sucker for camcorders, especially the prosumer compact sized ones, as my first real camera was a VX2100. Holding off for a bit before I end up with a Z90V because it’s the only camera out there now that fits the need, but it is so old now I kinda want something new new.
Man, I would absolutely love it if these companies could keep releasing new camcorders. It doesn't seem like they will though, seems like most people assume they're old tech or something
@@DolisterFilms I really am a sucker for them. Used my XF100 the other day on an ice fishing video - being able to use the viewfinder alone was so much better than even my FX6 for that situation. Latest camcorder form Sony is the AX43, and all they did with that was take the viewfinder off of the AX53! Why?! Viewfinders rule! Really hoping we see a very cool new compact camcorder from Sony, and Canon this year. All Sony would have to do is put 4K in the VX2100 body and then myself and many tens of thousands of other people who grew up filming skateboarding would lose it! I would settle for an updated Z90V sized camcorder though - modernize the body a bit and widen that lens out to 24mm, I'd be happy! Same for Canon, put the XF605 sensor in the XF100 body, not the XA75 body where they combined it with an XA camera, oof, and I would be sooo happy! Heck, I'd love to see Sony make a version of the DCR-PC series camera again, and also a HDR-HC9 style camcorder. Both of those were brilliant. Not as big of a fan of the giant barrel of the AX53, and don't love the BOSS system. Think it's goofy.
as the great photonicinduction once said: the good, the bad & the ugly, that must be me
Help me hear guys,what about canon XA60 camera
I’ve had a mix of Canon XA10 and XA11 camcorders that I’ve used for years. I’m looking at the XA60, as I want to record in 4K. I’ve checked a lot of Canon articles and the XA60 will look and behave as my older camcorders, thus very little learning curve. New batch of gigs on my calendar this Spring and looking forward to recording in 4K.
It looks like camcorders are not updated anymore. Is it so?
Panasonic just released 2 new models this year.
Sony has been focusing more on their mirrorless camera systems. Unfortunately no new camcorders
Sony Z200 and NX800 just came out Q4 2024. Both are excellent!
@@Guitarsdetectors Sony's new video cams are more for professionals, not casual users.
Considering the built in ND filter, zoom lens with f2.8 maximum aperture, stabilization and body designed specifically for video, we actually paying the same amount of money equivalent to a very fine mirrorless setup.
But, man .... still the price makes me think carefully and since many are already out of production, supports like batteries might be an issue.
The FDR-AX700 was released back in 2017, and has been discontinued. I suppose you could buy one used, or still may be able to find a new copy somewhere, but pretty hard to recommend in 2024/2025. Sony did release the new HXR-NX800 in 2024, which is a professional camcorder with a 1" sensor. At $3,300 USD, it's a lot more expensive than the AX700 - but worth it IMO as it is a massive upgrade over the AX700. I hope Sony will release a proper successor to the AX700 at some point, ideally by taking the lens and sensor from the NX800 and putting them in a smaller, more prosumer focused body.
I keep seeing Z200 footage that is just unusably muddy with noise. Even in full daylight, noise, crawling all over the screen.
@ check out the Z200 sample videos that Doug Jensen has put on TH-cam. Looks pretty clean to me, and not even full daylight but overcast conditions.
Tbh all i wanted is a camcoder with the capabilities of lumix gh7 or sony fx30
But noooo corporations just decide that all people wanted slr body or you peasant can just buy a fx6 🤪
Get them while you can - Sony and Canon have pulled the plug on their lower end range. It's only Panasonic that are flying the flag with the introduction of two 'new' 'corders - God bless them!
Oh no! I've got 2 of this model so, I'm hoping that'll do me well for years. Even as just a personal cam. I'd love to check out the higher end Panasonic ones. It's a shame companies aren't committing to 'corders anymore!
@@DolisterFilms Don't worry - High end, traditional style video cameras (as opposed to 'corders = casual consumer), will be around for some time, Pro's demand them. These include Sony and Canon as well.
Speaking personally; I'm thinking of getting a high(ish) ender for the 50/60fps that they offer that I would really, really like but, they come with a steep learning curve. Were it not for this fps headache my current Panny 'corders would have been just perfect for me.
Lastly: Whereas Panasonic are flying the flag for 'corders they have pulled the plug on their accessories including, larger batteries, battery chargers, mics., bagged kits, video lights, etc. It's all rather depressing.
Hey man, I'm a freelance designer, can I help you design some artworks to use as merch print for your fans to buy and it can help me to afford a camcorder too?
Ни разу не пожалел что купил ее) для съемок праздников и домашнего видео безальтернативный зум))) все таки репортажная камера гораздо удобнее для съемок каких либо событий, чем бегать и переводить фокус с одного человека на другого
I stop use them because of the shallow depth of field impossibility. If they had a decent sensor size, at least, micro 4/3, I bet people start using them again. In the end, They capture worse video than a photo camera. That's the truth