Now here is a camera to dream for. A real prosumer camcorder that records to solid state media.
Download product brochure (pdf) http://ws.sel.sony.com/PIPWebServices/RetrievePublicAsset/StepID/SEL-asset-186892/original/NXCAM_HXR-NX5U_v2454.pdf
Official Sony web product page: http://pro.sony.com/bbsc/ssr/product-HXRNX5U/
The street price is around $4K as of 9/2010
Also, don’t be fooled by the lesser version of the same Sony camera, HDR-AX2000, it is about $500 less, but don’t go for it. The HXRNX5U is the one to get. Update 7/24/12 - Actually people are swearing by the HDR-AX2000 out there on reviews, so maybe just compare the features that you want. The NX5 does seem to have more features, record modes, etc.
Also, be aware that the Sony HXR-FMU128, 128GB Flash Memory Unit is an extra $700. However, with the dual SDHC memory card slots, you really don’t need it.
Be sure that you get at least Class 6 SDHC memory cards or whatever Sony recommends. Class 10 would be even faster. May also require a good SDHC card reader if your laptop does not support SDHC.
Main Sony NXCAM site: http://pro.sony.com/bbsc/ssr/micro-nxcamsite/
Videomaker review:
http://www.videomaker.com/article/14904/
Older review on the prototype: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cxKe6NDicBE
There are also cool accessories of course like the VCTSP2BP Multi-purpose Camcorder Support System.
Product Review:
Sample footage:
From Product Specs:
Recording Frame Rate NTSC Mode
AVCHD FX (24Mbps) 1920x1080/60i
AVCHD FH (17Mbps) 1920x-1080/60i
AVCHD HQ (9Mbps) 1440x1080/60i
AVCHD LP (5Mbps) 1440x1080/60i
AVCHD FX (24Mbps) 1920x1080/24p
AVCHD FH (17Mbps) 1920x1080/24p
AVCHD FX (24Mbps) 1920x1080/30p
AVCHD FH (17Mbps) 1920x1080/30p
AVCHD FX (24Mbps) 1280x720/60p
AVCHD FH (17Mbps) 1280x720/60p
MPEG2 SD HQ (9Mbps) 720x480/60i
MPEG2 SD HQ (9Mbps) 720x480/60i (24p Scan)
MPEG2 SD HQ (9Mbps) 720x480/60i (30p Scan)
For Sony Rumors and News:
http://www.sonyalpharumors.com/
