fx1 or z1u?
 

About the time to finally get one of these. Is the Z1U worth paying more for or should I just go with the FX1. The FX1 can use after market lenses right? Or is it attached to the camera.

Go with Sony HDR FX-1 great camera

Both the FX-1 and Z1U lens are attached to the camera bodies. Main difference is that the Z1U has XLR inputs for audio and some extra features, other than that it is essentially the same lens and brain Of course, there are also newer hdv and HD cameras from other manufacturers like Panasonic that are worthy of serious consideration as well if you are wiling to spend a little more money and also if you have the hardware and software to be able to edit with.

I think i'll go for the FX1, I can probably get a better deal since the camera has been out for quite some time and I noticed a lot of people using it. As long as there are no known problems with it to worry about.

The FX1 lens is attached to the cam, but you're still able to use an additional wide-angle lens. Not completely different lenses though.

If you want decent audio I'd go with the Z1U as you can attach pro-mics and don't have to use something like a Beachbox to get XLR inputs. Furthermore you aren't stuck with Sonys consumer-support but get to talk to their broadcast division.

So, depends on what you want to do with the cam, but if you're going to do serious work and can get a good deal on a Z1U, I'd say to go for it instead of the FX1.

WHat do you all think of the Canon XL2 ?
I have used it before (rental) and am now looking at buying, I have reviewed the FX1 but wonder how it compares to the canon XL2

If you want decent audio I'd go with the Z1U as you can attach pro-mics:thumbsup

The XL2 is SD whereas the FX1/Z1U are HD - can't compare them. That's what I think of it :winkwink:

It sure is a nice cam, but for HD you'd have to get the XL H1 which is about $9k or the XH A1/G1 if you want a cam that doesn't scare the hell out of girls.