As much as I love Sony cameras, one thing I learned a few years ago when I started the 7U recall was that no matter what requests Sony has regarding customization of their cameras, or heeding the advice and suggestions by users of their equipment, they are still oblivious to any standardization.

For instance, there were enough inquires about the power button being on the hand grip of the VX/PD/FX/Z1 cameras that with the Z7U series, the power button was placed on the left top. The reason for this was to minimize the accidental turning off of the camera.

Of course it wouldn't make any sense for Sony to continue this, as with the NX5U, it's gone back to the very place that they clearly stated they were moving away from in the first place.

More over, the IRIS button on a few generations ago was changed from a button to a dial as per owner recommendations and while, unlike the Z7U this would not apply as that camera has a removeable lens and separate iris controls, the NX5U is going back to the button selection (even though the ring on the lens will operate it).

I can't state that I'm thrilled that there's no histogram - why would this be excluded?

I have a few of these on order so we shall see what happens. I just can't understand the logic to things sometimes.

Sean, I agree. Sony wanted to keep the price at the same level with Z5. I think they will release a newer camera, NX7 or something like that, which will have all the goodies included. Unfortunately I can't wait any longer, the NX5 it will have to do.
I'm waiting too see your video, until then I found another test... it sould be called "how bad NX5 can do"
YouTube - NX5 ???? (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BsA3nxvYdoo)

Finally managed to get this up to Youtube. Vimeo failed 4x after 2hrs of uploading time!!!
Video is still being processed, tune back later..

YouTube - HWM Sony NX5 Review (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cKkOrvyJfdU)

Thank you, Sean. You're the first to give a review for the final product.
I hope not to upset you, maybe you can upload for us a few seconds of raw material somewhere. The video on Youtube is awfully compressed.

The video looks bad as it is still under compression.

Is there a service in dvinfonet that I can host the raw files?

Yes, I see now that the video has better quality.

dvinfo supports zip files under 3 megs. I suggest MEGAUPLOAD - The leading online storage and file delivery service (http://www.megaupload.com) or RapidShare: 1-CLICK Web hosting - Easy Filehosting (http://www.rapidshare.com)

FYI to ALL:::

As of this post...

Sony financing does NOT apply to the NX5U or the reader, or any other accessories of this camera, but it does apply to the Lens Kit.

I'm stating this as I know so many people who have ordered and are in the process of ordering this camera based on the 0% terms for 12 months. As it stands, they want 7.9% plus sales tax and a $75 app fee. My guess is that the qualifications list has not been updated yet....

I have a few calls into Sony Corporate so we shall see what happens.

Is there a service in dvinfonet that I can host the raw files?Yes. Please contact me privately by email (chris at dv info dot net) and we'll set it up for you.

Now that we've opened a dedicated forum for these camcorders, please post new threads or reply to existing ones that are relevant to your desired topic. Thanks all,