Sony HDR-FX1000E

The basics

HDV (1080i/25p) camcorder with 20x zoom lens, 1/3-inch low light CMOS sensor, photo-realistic 3.2-inch LCD and Optical SteadyShot stabilisation. Measures 349x178x169mm and weighs about 2.2kg.

The good

Consumer HD camcorders are fine for immortalising drunken antics and re-enacting Watchmen with home-made capes, but if you want to break into the big time, you’ll need some big-boy kit. HDV gear doesn’t come much sweeter than the FX1000E. From its optically pure wideangle 20x optics to its 0.45-inch electronic viewfinder, this Sony echoes to the sound of Oscar award ceremonies and eight-figure green-lit movie pitches. Video quality is second to none thanks to seamless 25p progressive scan and CinemaTone Gamma and Colour’s rich, filmic hues. There are manual rings for focus, zoom and iris, giving you fingertip control over every aspect of your masterpiece. Just don’t forget us little guys when you’re partying with Uma and Scarlett in an LA nightclub.

The bad

It’s a tough slog to the top. First thing to do is master the operation of Sony’s 4,374 tiny little buttons, each one of which can screw up your movie in a unique and special way if it’s not set just right. Or you can just set it to auto-everything and keep your fingers crossed. Seriously, the FX1000E demands a bit of respect and effort to get the best from – so budget for video lights, tripods, microphones, and probably a gaffer and a best boy just to be safe.

The bottom line

Sublime audio and earth-shattering video quality is the prize, talent and hard work is the price to be paid for seizing it. Do you have what it takes to master this semi-pro camcorder? Slap down a couple of grand and find out.