Blurring the line between consumer and professional video cameras Sony has created the HVR-Z1U camcorder. It adheres to the HDV Consortium's specifications for 1080i recording on popular DV mini cassettes. This camera represents the widest array of professional features within a new standard of miniaturization. The HDV video standard will provide about double the resolution of the old standard DV formats. In contrast with the consumer version of the camera, the HDR-FX1, the pro model camera offers many additional functions that the professional operator will immediately appreciate. Just as an example, the HVR-Z1U will keep track of the hours of operation the camera endures. Another example of the pro camera's greater abilities is that it records and plays in DVCAM, consumer DV in SP mode and the HDV formats. You may also use the LCD screen simultaneously with the viewfinder, a function not found in the consumer model.
The design of the camera is aimed directly at the filmmaker, the most modern event video producers and even widescreen news shooters. Because it records in both high definition and standard definition modes it can be used in a variety of production scenarios that may change from client to client or evolve over time. It is NTSC and PAL system compatible as well.
