The Real “DSLR Killer” For Filmmaking (No, It’s Not A Hasselblad)

The Sony NEX-FS100U camcorder

With the release of Panasonic’s AG-AF100 and Sony’s PMW-F3, which both have large sensors to capture cinematic depth of field, we obviously know the effect DSLRs have had on camcorder industry. Although the F3 is an amazing camera, its price point of $16,000 (body only) and $23,000 for a package that includes three Sony-branded prime lenses is more along the lines of a less expensive RED ONE. Now, just in time for NAB, Sony is releasing the latest flagship camera of its more “indie friendly” NXCAM line, the NEX-FS100U. I saw the camera, introduced to us as the NXCAM S35, at Sony’s Atsugi Research Center in Japan and it was the biggest hit among the American journalists. I distinctly remember many of the Japanese Sony executives getting a big kick out of hearing my colleague, Jon Fauer, ASC, refer to the camcorder’s boxy-looking body as “looking like a Hasselblad”.

The FS100U contains an Exmor Super 35mm CMOS sensor which is the same sensor that the F3 uses and an E-mount, which is Sony’s new interchangeable lens system for its NEX line of cameras. Although the amount of E-mount lenses is currently limited, there are several adapters being released that will allow you to use a number of different lenses. In terms of recording, the FS100U accepts compatible SD, SDHC and SDXC cards, as well as Sony’s proprietary Memory Stick PRO Duo cards. It also has 96GB of internal memory! AVCHD recording and shoots with a maximum frame rate of 1920×1080/60p (28Mbps). Perhaps the biggest difference between a camcorder and a DSLR is the ability to record single system professional quality audio. Even with incredible software like Singular Software’s Plural Eyes and terrific portable audio recorders like the Samson Zoom H4N

What I particularly like about the camera is its LCD screen/viewfinder. Similar to the EX3, the viewfinder is detachable, which makes it easier to work handheld or in a confined space.The MSRP of the NEX-FS100U is $5,850 (without lens) and $6,550 with a kit 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 lens that also gives you optical SteadyShot and auto focus. It is a little more expensive than an AF100 ($4,995), but the FS100U’s sensor is nearly twice the size of the AF100′s micro four thirds sensor. Yes, this is much more expensive than a 7D or 5D Mark II, but when you factor in the extra cost of a separate audio recorder, a monitoring solution and various other accessories that enable the DSLR to capture professional quality video, it really isn’t a huge difference, especially if you already own DSLR lenses. The main factor for me is because the FS100U, like the F3 or AF100, does not employ DSLR’s line skipping, which gives you color aliasing, moire, and other rolling shutter effects.

I’ve included a few pics that I took on my media excursion in Japan. I wasn’t able to post them until now. Look for a more detailed “hands-on” review of the NEX-FS100U in the next issue of HDVP.