Sony PXW-Z90V 4K HD Compact NXCAM Camcorder Review - Best Action Camera for Professional Filmmaking
The Sony PXW-Z90V 4K HD Compact NXCAM Camcorder is a top-of-the-line action camera designed for professional videographers. Packed with advanced features and cutting-edge technology, this camcorder delivers stunning 4K footage and exceptional performance. With its Fast Hybrid Auto Focus system and Instant HDR workflow, capturing high-quality videos has never been easier. The camcorder also offers Super Slow/ S&Q Motion in Full HD XAVC 10-bit 4:2:2, allowing for creative slow-motion shots. Additionally, the built-in Wi-Fi connectivity and support for the XDCAM Air production system make it convenient for remote control and live streaming. With a sleek design, the Sony PXW-Z90V is the perfect companion for professionals on the go.
Product Description
The Sony PXW-Z90V 4K HD Compact NXCAM Camcorder is a powerful and versatile camera that is perfect for capturing high-quality videos. With its advanced features and compact design, this camcorder is a great choice for professional videographers and enthusiasts alike.
One of the standout features of the PXW-Z90V is its Fast Hybrid Auto Focus system. This advanced technology allows the camera to quickly and accurately focus on subjects, ensuring that every shot is sharp and clear. Whether you're capturing fast-moving action or shooting in low-light conditions, the Fast Hybrid Auto Focus system will deliver stunning results.
Another impressive feature of the PXW-Z90V is its Instant HDR workflow with HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma). This means that you can capture and display HDR content without the need for post-production processing. The camera's built-in HLG picture profile allows for the easy creation of stunning HDR footage, making it a great tool for videographers looking to stay ahead of the curve.
In addition to its advanced autofocus and HDR capabilities, the PXW-Z90V also offers Super Slow/ S&Q Motion in Full HD XAVC 10-bit 4:2:2. This feature allows you to capture slow-motion footage with incredible detail and clarity. Whether you're shooting sports, wildlife, or any other fast-paced action, the PXW-Z90V has you covered.
The camcorder also boasts 2.4/5 GHz Wi-Fi networking with support for the XDCAM Air production system. This allows for seamless wireless streaming and remote control, making it easier than ever to share and manage your footage. The PXW-Z90V is also compatible with the MCX500 Live Producer and RM30BP Remote, offering a simple live solution for multi-camera productions.
With its compact size, powerful features, and professional-grade performance, the Sony PXW-Z90V 4K HD Compact NXCAM Camcorder is a top choice for anyone in need of a high-quality camcorder. Whether you're a professional videographer or an enthusiast looking to step up your game, this camera has everything you need to capture stunning videos.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Brilliant 4K Image Quality: The Sony PXW-Z90V delivers exceptional 4K video quality, capturing stunningly clear and detailed footage. With its advanced imaging technology, you can expect professional-grade results that will impress your audience.
Wide-Range Power Zoom Lens: This camcorder features a versatile 12x optical zoom lens, allowing you to capture close-ups or wide-angle shots with ease. The zoom range gives you the flexibility to adapt to different shooting situations, whether you're filming a fast-paced action sequence or a scenic landscape.
Professional Audio Capabilities: The PXW-Z90V offers professional balanced audio inputs, ensuring crystal-clear sound quality in your recordings. With its dual XLR connectors, you can easily connect external microphones or mixers for enhanced audio control. This feature is particularly useful for filmmakers and documentary makers who prioritize high-quality sound.
Cons:
Limited Depth of Field: Some users have expressed disappointment with the depth of field and the range of objects in focus. This limitation can affect the artistic expression of your shots, especially if you prefer a shallow depth of field to create a blurred background effect.
Handle Lens Vulnerability: There have been reports of the handle lens bending, so users need to be cautious while handling it. It's advisable to handle the camcorder with care to avoid any potential damage to this component.
Compact Size: While the compact size of the PXW-Z90V makes it highly portable, some users may find it too small for their liking. If you have larger hands or prefer a more substantial feel, you might need to consider additional accessories or grips to improve your comfort while operating the camcorder.
In conclusion, the Sony PXW-Z90V 4K
Customer Reviews
The Sony PXW-Z90V 4K HD Compact NXCAM Camcorder has received positive feedback from buyers, with an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars based on 19 ratings. Let's take a closer look at what customers have to say about this product.
5.0 out of 5 stars - Does everything I hoped it would do. Brilliant 4k image. Stunning. (5 stars)
4.0 out of 5 stars - In general this camera does most things well. My biggest disappointment is the depth of field and range of which things are in focus. What is in focus... (4 stars)
5.0 out of 5 stars - I bought one about two years ago and I do short films and documentaries. I loved it so much that I bought another one. I have a sony A6300, GH5s, and... (5 stars)
5.0 out of 5 stars - The PXW-Z90 combines a wide-range power zoom lens, automatic switching between a flip out screen and EVF, professional balanced audio, dual SD card sl... (5 stars)
5.0 out of 5 stars - This is an excellent camera. A bit small, but I guess thats where everyone going now. Be careful with the handle lens for it will bend. I say just kee... (5 stars)
Overall, customers are highly satisfied with the Sony PXW-Z90V Camcorder. The 4K image quality is praised for its brilliance and stunning visuals. The camcorder's versatility is also highlighted, with one customer mentioning its compatibility with other Sony cameras. The automatic switching between the flip-out screen and electronic viewfinder is appreciated, along with the professional balanced audio and dual SD card slots.
However, one customer expressed disappointment with the depth of field and range of focus. Despite this, the camera is still regarded as capable of performing well in various situations.
In summary, the customer reviews reflect a high level of satisfaction with the Sony PXW-Z90V Camcorder, making it a reliable choice for those in need of a compact and versatile
Conclusion
The Sony PXW-Z90V 4K HD Compact NXCAM Camcorder is a powerful and versatile camera that offers advanced features and exceptional image quality. With its Fast Hybrid Auto Focus, instant HDR workflow, and Super Slow/ S&Q Motion capabilities, this camcorder is perfect for capturing professional-grade videos.
One of the standout features of the PXW-Z90V is its 2.4/5 GHz Wi-Fi networking, which allows for seamless connectivity and support for the XDCAM Air production system. This feature enables easy sharing and streaming of videos, making it a great choice for content creators and live streamers.
The camcorder also offers a Simple Live Solution when combined with the MCX500 Live Producer and RM30BP Remote, further enhancing its versatility and usability in various scenarios.
While some users have expressed disappointment with the depth of field and range of focus, the majority of buyers have praised the PXW-Z90V for its exceptional image quality and performance. The camera's compact size and professional features make it a popular choice among filmmakers and documentary makers.
Overall, the Sony PXW-Z90V 4K HD Compact NXCAM Camcorder is an excellent investment for those looking to take their videography skills to the next level. Its advanced features, outstanding image quality, and seamless connectivity make it a top choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the Sony PXW-Z90V 4K HD Compact NXCAM Camcorder suitable for professional use?
Yes, the Sony PXW-Z90V is designed to meet the needs of professional videographers. With its advanced features and capabilities, it is perfect for capturing high-quality footage for various applications such as short films, documentaries, and live events.
2. How is the image quality of this camcorder?
The Sony PXW-Z90V delivers stunning 4K image quality, allowing you to capture every detail with exceptional clarity. It also supports Instant HDR workflow with HLG, which enhances the dynamic range of your footage, resulting in more vibrant and lifelike colors.
3. Can I achieve cinematic effects with this camcorder?
While the Sony PXW-Z90V is primarily an action camera, it does offer some features that allow you to achieve cinematic effects. The Fast Hybrid Auto Focus system ensures quick and accurate focusing, while the Super Slow/S&Q Motion feature enables you to capture smooth slow-motion footage in Full HD with 10-bit 4:2:2 color sampling.
4. Does the camcorder have wireless connectivity?
Yes, the Sony PXW-Z90V comes with built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to connect to a wireless network and transfer your footage seamlessly. It also supports the XDCAM Air production system, which enables remote control and monitoring of the camcorder using a mobile device or computer.
5. What are the additional features of this camcorder?
The Sony PXW-Z90V offers a range of professional features, including a wide-range power zoom lens, automatic switching between a flip-out screen and electronic viewfinder (EVF), professional balanced audio, and dual SD card slots for extended recording capacity. Its compact size makes it highly portable, while its durable construction ensures reliability in various shooting conditions.
6. Are there any common issues with this camcorder?
While the Sony PXW-Z90V is generally highly regarded by users, some have noted a potential limitation regarding depth of field and focus range. However, this can be managed with proper technique and understanding of the camera's settings. Additionally, some users have mentioned concerns about the handle lens being prone to bending, but it can be avoided by handling it with care.
7. Is the Sony PXW-Z90V worth the investment?
Considering its advanced features, exceptional image quality, and professional-grade capabilities, the Sony PXW-Z90V is definitely worth the investment for those who require a high-performance camcorder for their professional video production needs. Its versatility and reliability make it a valuable tool for capturing stunning footage in various settings.
