Advice on HV20 or HVR-Z1E please at DVinfo.net

John Callan · April 7th, 2007, 02:17 AM

Hi. I'm a stills photographer and I need to buy a camcorder to film firefighters at work. This will include within the fire engine on its way to calls. I have been looking at the Sony HVR-Z1E but it's quite large in physical size. The HV20 is better in size for me. I understand it will be a comprimise, quality v size but both are very important. As I know nothing about this sort of camera I would appreciate any help or guidance regarding which one to buy. I need to be able to produce high quality work that will be used in training, presentations etc for many years to come.
Thanks
john 8-)

Ken Ross · April 7th, 2007, 06:55 AM

John, I had the FX1 and still have the FX7. I can honestly say the HV20 picture quality is right up there with either one of these in most conditions. The FX1 may be better in low light, but in normal lighting the HV20 can actually produce a sharper, cleaner video. I know it's hard to believe, but it's true.

What you will give up is the ultimate in adjustability, but you may find you have enough adjustments for what you're doing to be absolutely fine.

April 7th, 2007, 02:17 AM	#1
John Callan Tourist Join Date: Apr 2007 Location: France Posts: 1	Advice on HV20 or HVR-Z1E please Hi. I'm a stills photographer and I need to buy a camcorder to film firefighters at work. This will include within the fire engine on its way to calls. I have been looking at the Sony HVR-Z1E but it's quite large in physical size. The HV20 is better in size for me. I understand it will be a comprimise, quality v size but both are very important. As I know nothing about this sort of camera I would appreciate any help or guidance regarding which one to buy. I need to be able to produce high quality work that will be used in training, presentations etc for many years to come. Thanks john 8-)

April 7th, 2007, 06:55 AM	#2
Ken Ross Trustee Join Date: Jan 2005 Location: New York Posts: 1,945	John, I had the FX1 and still have the FX7. I can honestly say the HV20 picture quality is right up there with either one of these in most conditions. The FX1 may be better in low light, but in normal lighting the HV20 can actually produce a sharper, cleaner video. I know it's hard to believe, but it's true. What you will give up is the ultimate in adjustability, but you may find you have enough adjustments for what you're doing to be absolutely fine.