Just got this for Christmas and dying to use it! Loved the video and would love an introductory video of you actually using the camera on a project taking us step by step through the process as you take us on an informational journey.
Thanks. Helpful to know zoom has been improved. Also like the zoom feature on-screen too. I bought an ax53b. Do you know if the b designation indicates it is the newer version you are talking about?
Thanks for this excellent review! Your arguments conviced me to buy this AX53 although I was keen to go for the AX700. It is not a 1” sensor camera but it costs much less and seems to have impressive image quality. Also, it has a number of extra features that I need (e.g. extra gimbal stability!) and also weighs half as much :) It’s time to turn in my HDR-CX550 for this new technical wonder.
I still have the camera. I just got the Sony A7S3 but this camcorder has things that DSLRs don't like the BOS and super long fast zoom. I keep it around for travel because it just works and also everything is always in focus. For product videos sometimes you want everything in focus and big sensor cameras are hard to do that with sometimes.
Great review of the AX53, the best yet. I have been considering getting one of these camcorders, do you still recommend as this several years later? Tk you
I've used several Panasonics in the past and they are amazing outdoors. Indoors the white balance was off sometimes. Sony nails it indoors and does a good job outdoors for me much more often.
Excellent review! I bought the FDR AX53 three weeks ago and so far the 4k results are wonderful. Your review highlighted many features that are in the nearly 300 page operations manual, but typically the manual does not explain why and when those many features should be used. (Yes, I printed the manual back-to-back so that notes could be added).Thank you!Bill
Just turn off all Optical stabilization if you go to a tripod it remove any jitty if you a panning or tilting because I found that the BOSS is still trying to work but with it off there absolutely no jitty on a tripod. Like with any camera just ensure you set it up for the task required the AX 53 is such brilliant camera I purchased 2 and now intend adding the AX 700 for multicamera shoots use the 700 as A roll then the 53's as B & C Roll for a 3 camera shoot. They are excellent value for their price.
The green screen is really good, but you should invest some time into researching how to remove the green glow from your skin. The skin color is little bit to green, you can adjust that some how. And it will look perfect :D
Looking at this for my next camcorder. Especially for the optical stabilizer and the focus ring that no other prosumer cams have. How is the viewfinder for daylight shooting?
Someone said the low light on this camera was grainy and they preferred the ax100 for such circumstances but your night footage looks pretty damn good on my iPhone screen. The overall capability of the image capture is phenomenal. 😱. If this is what they call alright and no usb attached inconvenience then I’ll take it! Thanks for the helpful clarifications. ✅🤓
Excellent review & I love your 4k vacation footage in California 🔥🔥🔥🔥….wish me luck next month as I plan to shoot the NHRA Winternationals in 4k for the first time, if you check my channel ALL my Dragracing videos for the last 4 years was shot with my Sony fdr ax53 in 1080p@60fps because I assumed the 60fps was best for fast moving racecars however I’m just craving that clarity & super high resolution of 4k UHD video & im willing to give it a shot next month March 22 & March 23 @ the NHRA Winternationals in Pomona. Thanks for this detailed video. 👍
I noticed the clip of the humming bird had a shallow depth of field. I use my mirrorless DSLR (Lumix GX8) and a wide aperture for that effect. Does this camera allow you to change the aperture, or were you simply using the longest zoom with the shallow depth as a accidental bonus?
This was a great review! I think about an upgrade from full hd to 4k, and my question is, what camcorder would you recommend? The old Sony AX-33 or this AX53? I have a lot of shoots in the inside.
+DominoJOJO The AX33 is cheaper but for me definitely the AX53. The quality is better, low light is better and a lot of small improvements. But mainly the video quality is awesome.
+DominoJOJO I was like you...ready to upgrade my old HD cam. Didn't know if I wanted to go 4K or not (was getting the Cannon VIXIA HF-G40, $1,300 HD cam), but in the end decided to go 4K. I looked at the Panasonic HC-WX970 ($900), Panasonic HC-WXF991K ($1,000) and the VX for $900 and the Sony AX53 ($1,000). But was really unhappy with the results of these "consumer" 4K cameras. I mean, if I'm going to spend that kind of money on a camera, it had better be good. So I looked at the Prosumer cameras...wow, expensive...but they had what I wanted; superior quality (way better than the consumer 4K's), multiple manual controls and built in ND filters. I settled on the Sony FDR-AX100/B but didn't want to pay $1,700 for one. Started looking around and Best Buy had a bunch for $1,000-$1,200 as open box demos, complete with factory warranty and full return policy. I basically got a Prosumer camera for the price of the consumer AX53.
Tech Connect Likewise! Great review of the AX53. Well done and very informative. On a side note, I found right off that video camera audio processors aren't very good. I always use an external source now for my audio, such as the Zoom H1. I match the H1 with a JK MIC-JO44 for interviews (the Giant Squid would also be a great choice). Even if you use a Rode shotgun mic mounted on the camera, you're still using the camera's weak audio processor. Great talking with you!
Hi can you please tell me I'm for filming a Wedding on Thursday with my Sony FDR-AX53 is it best to film in 1080P AVCHD Mode or Convert from 4K to 1080P i normally film in 4K but I've only 2 Cards and in 1080P i get about double the time on the cards.
I have watched a lot of camera reviews and I liked yours the best. I think you convinced me into getting the Sony FDR-AX53. I not a professional yet but I'm going to be working on that. Just one questions: Is is shooting at 60 fps? Mahalo, Skeeter
Thanks Ronald. Yes it can shoot definatly shoot 1080p at 60fps. That's what I use most of the time. I love 60fps.If you do buy from Amazon will you use my Amazon link to add the camera to your cart? Same price just helps me support my channel. Cheers.
Yes, I'll use your link. One last question. Can I have it hooked up to my computer and capture video in Final Cut Pro to avoid having to upload it later?
I don't think FCP can capture live video via USB from any camera. I'm not a 100% sure because I use Premier Pro though. You would probably need an HDMI video capture device then you could use the cameras micro HDMI output to capture straight to a computer. I think the capture function is mainly for tape based cameras.
Hey, nice video! Thanks. I was hoping to hear something about the HDMI... Do you know if it'd stream so one could also use the camera as a broadcast device? Obviously given that the receiving end can handle incoming signal through HDMI.
there is no HDMI monitoring while recording in 4K yet works fine in 1080 formats will play back 4K fine via HDMI just not output while recording in 4K if you want that facility then look at the AX700 the only reason I found out was when out very bright sun the flip out screen can be a little hard to see but I got around that problem by 3D printing a slip on should for the flip out screen, that is proving to work fine .
I have not had very good luck with green screen on this camera. Basically you want to put it into spot metering mode to use a green screen. You can have someone tap the screen on you to lock metering on you in front of the green screen. On the Sony a6300 it does amazing on green screen. Just put it in center metering and center focus and shoot in front of the green screen. It looks amazing. The first part of this video was shot on the a6300 amzn.to/2fKkWZu with a green screen.
The image is great because it uses a Zeiss lens. If you use a regular Sony lens on it, it won't be as good and that's what brings the price up because Sony would slap on a Zeiss lens on it. I have the Sony FDR AX-100 4K video cam with a Zeiss lens on it.
at 8:31 you present "BOS ...shot in fairly shaky conditions". But, or it is BOS shot 1080, or not BOS in 4k (as the ax53 does not support BOS for 4k). Which one?
Thank you for the video. Was all of this handheld? I am looking for a camcorder that gets stable handheld footage without using a tripod. Thanks again. Awesome video!
hi Rivers. did you ever post your calif trip you mentioned to show the fdr ax53 features/samples? I do videos for my club and my hd camcorder is 6 yrs old and i need to update it soon. thanks
Ken, you'll love the image stabilization. Here are my review thoughts: This camera really excels in one department, and that’s the wonderfully effective Balanced Optical SteadyShot. There are four choices: intelligent, active, standard or off. When you turn the camera on (opening the side-screen or pulling the viewfinder rearwards will do) the camera shakes in your hand as the whole lens assembly jumps from rest and centres itself on the chip’s optical axis. This very powerful five-axis image stabilisation mechanism floats the whole lens block unnervingly, the block comprising (probably) 18 elements, two ND filters, the iris diaphragm, the zoom and autofocus operating solenoids. It’s quite remarkable to watch in operation as the complete lens assembly wafts about with a 7mm maximum excursion, as if it’s all floating on some invisible oil. This happens in real time; as fast as you can shake the camera the lens block counteracts you, painting the stationary chip with the stabilised image. The on-screen results are truly remarkable, and when combined with just a touch of Mercalli in-post stabilisation, make walks across a field look like tracks have been laid. I knew how I could catch it out. Powerful OIS systems all show the dreaded and inevitable ‘overshoot and bounce back’, effectively ruining tripod shots. Of course such negative artefacts are there in your hand-held footage too, it’s just that the pros of OIS visually outweigh the cons. Anyway, I put the camera onto a nice fluid-headed tripod and did some quick pans and tilts. And you know what? The camera needs but one pan to ‘learn’ that its on a tripod, and how clever is this - it immediately switches the OIS off. Result: no overshoot whatsoever. Flicking the tripod’s quick release immediately and automatically re-engages the powerful OIS for hand-held use. It’s undocumented and I’m impressed. It’s a pity that shooting in 4k disables this magic OIS, but more of this later.
Thanks, Tom, for the additional excerpt from your review. I almost missed it because it is in a new comment! The camera definitely has some impressive stabilization technology. I’m puzzled as to why Sony doesn’t advertise the built-in ND filters. They would definitely be a selling point. A number of reviews note the lack of ND filters since they are common on competing cameras, especially camcorders. I’m not familiar with Mercalli; I’ve mostly used Premiere Pro’s built-in stabilization. I’ll have to take a look at it.
Actually Ken I don't think highlighting the built-in and undocumented ND filters WOULD be a good selling point. The reason they're there of course is because camcorders of this ilk use tiny sensors (the 53 uses a chip slightly larger than ⅓'') and diffraction losses are horrendous, especially at short focal lengths (wideangle end of the zoom) and small apertures. Manufacturers have been doing this for years. The Canon 310XL Super-8 camera had built-in undocumented ND way back in 1973. So if your camcorder doesn't have an ND filter switch on the outside then sure as hell they're built in. Panasonic, Canon, you name it. Problem is of course that you're denied access to the lens apertures, so you can't control the DoF. I found out in my review though you CAN shoot in manual mode at smaller apertures than f/4, but the picture softness is horrible. You can see why Sony 'pretends' you can choose any aperture to control exposure, but in reality you're shuffling NDs in and out. But making decent looking movies means keeping the shutter speed at 1/50th or so, any faster and the 'frozen frame' gives footage a very stataco look. So there's reason for adding yet more ND to the front of the 53 to stop the camera upping the shutter speed in bright conditions. Except that I'd NEVER recommend it. Adding filters to any lens with such very short focal length is a real no-no. Ah - compromises, huh?
@@tomrhardwick Yes, definitely a lot of compromises and complexity. I think I follow some of what you are saying, but not all. Are you saying that Sony wouldn’t want to advertise the ND filters because it would bring more attention to the camera’s limitations (e.g., poor small aperture performance, lack of full manual controls)? I am not understanding the last paragraph, particularly the last sentence: “Adding filters to any lens with such very short focal length is a real no-no.” It seems like adding an ND filter would cause the camera to adjust by opening the aperture, thus compensating, at least partially, for the diffraction induced softness associated with the short focal length.
That's exactly right Ken, if 'filmmakers' thought they weren't able to operate the camera in full manual control they'd feel cheated somehow. But Sony aren't alone, all manufacturers keep stum about the internally deployed auto ND. It's there of course to give you sharper footage, so it's there for all the best intentions. The NDs are very close to the iris diaphragm so they're completely out of focus, even if they're only obscuring part of the aperture as they slide into place. Placing filters on the front of the camera is a no-no because of the very short focal lengths give huge depth of field, even at wide apertures. Filters are ALWAYS dirty, however beautifully you clean them, and shooting into the light shows up the impurities as 'bits' on the footage. I'm afraid using such camcorders means accepting staccato footage in bright light.
@@tomrhardwick Thanks Tom. I appreciate your insights. I don’t have a pressing need for a new camera right now. The ax53 is over 4 years old, and I’m tempted to wait and see if Sony comes out with an updated version. The recently released ax43 suggests that Sony does see a future for the consumer camcorder market, but the fact that it is a downgrade from the ax53 is discouraging. They may see more potential in the low end of the consumer market rather than the high end, so I have no idea when or if Sony will release an upgraded version of the ax53.
Thank you so much for this video! The way you covered the functionality of the multipurpose ring was very comprehensive. I've looked at other camcorders and their rings are only dedicated to focusing. Also the hummingbird and flower footage was beautiful. The moon footage, spectacular!
I have always liked the 'fade out' function on other videocameras. It helps we separate 'days' etc. I can't find a 'fade out' on this camera. Is there some reason, some alternate function to use? Also there is no 'backlight' function I can find.
Thanks for the review I appreciate it very much. Quick question. If I were doing continuous recording like recording a seminar for 5 hours. How long will the after market battery last? And how long will the memory card last? I guess what I'm asking is how many batteries and memory cards would I need?
What setup do you recommend for Sony AX53, if I want to use two mics (both wireless lav and shotgun going directly into camera), since there's only one mic input? Thanks
Important to me is the optical viewfinder. It's always bright here in Arizona. But when I look at the camera, it seems that the battery would keep your eye from being able to use the viewfinder properly. Or am I wrong?
Is this 4k camcorder really worth it? I saw this one (Sony) and Panasonic brand. Maybe if you could compare and contrast both of these brands? Thank you!
Hello Tech Connect, any suggestions on upgrading from Canon Vixia HF G20 camcorder with a $1k budget? Looking for later model camcorder with better low light recording! Thanks ahead with any suggestions!
The battery seems to protrude a lot, does that affect the use of the viewfinder? It looks like I would bump my nose against the battery every time I'd try to look through the viewfinder :)
Because of you, I bought the sony ax 53 .... and I'm sincerely very satisfied ... thank you very much for your videos .... mine got much better with this 53....bye bye...keep the good work....big hug from Terceira Island in Azores....thanks
+DarkDennis1961 You can use it for the worlds most high quality webcam if you have an elgato game capture amzn.to/1MLw1Ht . Just connect the HDMI to it and you can use it as a video input in some software. I haven't actually done it though.
I have to correct my earlier question - I have a trv350. FX430 was the camera I had before that. The FX430 had a lot of motor noise when zooming. the trv350 is better but still picks it up in the recording. How is the zoom feature in the ax53? Also the other question was about the viewfinder. I see that it extends but is that a problem with the larger battery? Thanks and excellent review - really helped.
Hi Rivers! I just want to say I have enjoyed your channel. Thanks for the informative material. I recently got a like new Sony AX-53 for 1/2 price on craigslist. My camera is a cannon Powershot SX-50. The cannon serves my needs for now and I LOVE the simplicity and image on the AX-53. However, I am wondering if the Sony a6500 would replace both. If so I would rather spend a little more to bring the minimum gear on my night time fishing charters. Their are few comparisons of the 2 on you tube. So That might be a great video Idea. What is your recommendation? The AX-53 or the a6500? Thanks and keep up the great work!
Excellent review...just wanted to know whether AX40 available in India is same as AX53 or some upgrade?? I saw 64GB internal hard disk in the leaflet that I got from Sony store here.
Good review. For the price though it should have alot more optical zoom, and better slow motion. What's with companies raising the price so high that you have to save a few months to even buy their product. I think things are way overpriced. Do I still buy them, of course. There's no other option but to buy the best that you can. You definitely get what you pay for these days.
I'm in the market for a camera that does at LEAST 1080, 60p. Excellent continuous AF and shallow depth of field are absolute MUSTS. 4K and 120 fps are a good bonuses. The Sony A6300 and the AX53 both do all of the above. I imagine the A6300 is better in low light (though the AX53 does well too). Both cameras are the same price (body only on the a6300), but I wouldn't be too upset over spending another $300 for a lens. Video quality is king. Can someone PLEASE point me in one direction or the other?
Have you tried it on a Tripod i just learned that footage is very Shaky when Zooming while on the Tripod and you can't turn on Stabilisation and i was looking forward to getting a new Tripod also i Film Buzzards in the sky and find on really Bright days its difficult to see them through the viewfinder it would need a better Eye Cup.
Well i like my Sony FDR-AX53 and love it i had planned on the Panasonic VXF990 but glad i went for the Sony for one thing they are built like a Tank compared to Panasonic,my last camcorder was the Panasonic X920 1080P.
+The Wooded Beardsman The screen says 2hr 40 min. I haven't actually run the camera for 1 hours starit recording but I have been out shooting for a few hours and I've never run all the way through the battery yet.
can you post the settings you shoot on? I have this camera and the 4k seems to be really grainy even in good daylight shots in doors, Yet all youtube videos shows the footage as nice and sharp? I don't get it?
Great video. I have one question as I recently picked up this video camera. I can't find anywhere on the net if this camera can do streaming or act as a webcam? I saw it supports ustream but haven't looked in to that yet. Wondering if you might know some more? Cheers
Could anyone possibly tell me the best settings for recording at night time? I have shot a few night shots, and it looks a little more grainy and not as good as the other test examples I have seen elsewhere on RUclips? How do I get a brilliant picture at night? Does there have to be a certain amount of natural light? Please help!
You have explained really well. I have viewed several clips on this matter but I think you were most clear, honest and professional. Thanks.
Outstanding review on the AX53. best I have seen yet
Thanks so much Stewart!.
Just got this for Christmas and dying to use it! Loved the video and would love an introductory video of you actually using the camera on a project taking us step by step through the process as you take us on an informational journey.
I just bought the ax33 not four months ago, love it to death, but you're really making me wanna upgrade now. Thanks for the review.
Excellent review , nice camera , your videos are outstanding !!!
the part where the plane takes off was sick! :D
What difference you found between SteadyShot Active, intelligent active. In moving from shooting hand?
thanks for doing this vid. It was very helpful.
take care -Chris
Thanks Chris. Glad you liked it.
Thanks. Helpful to know zoom has been improved. Also like the zoom feature on-screen too. I bought an ax53b. Do you know if the b designation indicates it is the newer version you are talking about?
Good detailed review. The test shots looked great 😎👍
I guess I’m 5 yrs late, but am thinking of getting one.
Gorgeous video shots.
Thanks for this excellent review!
Your arguments conviced me to buy this AX53 although I was keen to go for the AX700.
It is not a 1” sensor camera but it costs much less and seems to have impressive image quality. Also, it has a number of extra features that I need (e.g. extra gimbal stability!) and also weighs half as much :)
It’s time to turn in my HDR-CX550 for this new technical wonder.
Thanks for the info - looks like a nice camera. I'm leaning more towards this camera because of your review. Thanks.
Thank you!
Great video review, even 4 years later! What do you think of this camera now that it’s 4 years old... still worth it?
I still have the camera. I just got the Sony A7S3 but this camcorder has things that DSLRs don't like the BOS and super long fast zoom. I keep it around for travel because it just works and also everything is always in focus. For product videos sometimes you want everything in focus and big sensor cameras are hard to do that with sometimes.
Great review of the AX53, the best yet. I have been considering getting one of these camcorders, do you still recommend as this several years later?
Tk you
John Kaper great question. I’m looking to get one too
@@RobFuz me too
I just picked one up and also the ax700. To be honest I like the 53 better.
K.V. Surdas your welcome! I hope you enjoy it. Great little camcorder 👍🏻😊
I've bought 2 of these AX-53 cameras, both developed the same fault; touch-screen stopped responding to touch, making camera useless.
that moment when you slowmotion a humming birds wings but still cant see them
Thank you, very well done, unbelievable footage made by the FDR-AX53 :)
OK this or the panasonic fz1000?
I've used several Panasonics in the past and they are amazing outdoors. Indoors the white balance was off sometimes. Sony nails it indoors and does a good job outdoors for me much more often.
Excellent review! I bought the FDR AX53 three weeks ago and so far the 4k results are wonderful. Your review highlighted many features that are in the nearly 300 page operations manual, but typically the manual does not explain why and when those many features should be used. (Yes, I printed the manual back-to-back so that notes could be added).Thank you!Bill
There is grain in the video of AX53, and even on the AX700 big brother. All 8bit YUV videos must have grainy footage.
Have you put this camera on a tripod?
Give it a try see what results you get?
Just turn off all Optical stabilization if you go to a tripod it remove any jitty if you a panning or tilting because I found that the BOSS is still trying to work but with it off there absolutely no jitty on a tripod. Like with any camera just ensure you set it up for the task required the AX 53 is such brilliant camera I purchased 2 and now intend adding the AX 700 for multicamera shoots use the 700 as A roll then the 53's as B & C Roll for a 3 camera shoot. They are excellent value for their price.
this guy stole your video just thought you should know
his youtube name is
GreatProducts4U
Thanks for your recommendation on the Opteka higher capacity battery. It's great for the price.
Good Job. I'm thinking of getting one. Pictures and video looked great at the end. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks Russell. Its a very versatile camcorder.
you keep referring to 'last year's camera" versus "this year's'. Are you talking about 2 different models or just last year's ax53 versus this year's?
Very helpful. Thanks
Nice review & footage!
+briank46 Thank you!
great video, thanks for sharing!
The green screen is really good, but you should invest some time into researching how to remove the green glow from your skin. The skin color is little bit to green, you can adjust that some how. And it will look perfect :D
Looking at this for my next camcorder. Especially for the optical stabilizer and the focus ring that no other prosumer cams have. How is the viewfinder for daylight shooting?
Someone said the low light on this camera was grainy and they preferred the ax100 for such circumstances but your night footage looks pretty damn good on my iPhone screen. The overall capability of the image capture is phenomenal. 😱. If this is what they call alright and no usb attached inconvenience then I’ll take it! Thanks for the helpful clarifications. ✅🤓
Excelent review!
Excellent review & I love your 4k vacation footage in California 🔥🔥🔥🔥….wish me luck next month as I plan to shoot the NHRA Winternationals in 4k for the first time, if you check my channel ALL my Dragracing videos for the last 4 years was shot with my Sony fdr ax53 in 1080p@60fps because I assumed the 60fps was best for fast moving racecars however I’m just craving that clarity & super high resolution of 4k UHD video & im willing to give it a shot next month March 22 & March 23 @ the NHRA Winternationals in Pomona. Thanks for this detailed video. 👍
I noticed the clip of the humming bird had a shallow depth of field. I use my mirrorless DSLR (Lumix GX8) and a wide aperture for that effect. Does this camera allow you to change the aperture, or were you simply using the longest zoom with the shallow depth as a accidental bonus?
Awesome review. What camera are you actually using for shooting this review? Thanks
This was a great review!
I think about an upgrade from full hd to 4k, and my question is, what camcorder would you recommend?
The old Sony AX-33 or this AX53?
I have a lot of shoots in the inside.
+DominoJOJO The AX33 is cheaper but for me definitely the AX53. The quality is better, low light is better and a lot of small improvements. But mainly the video quality is awesome.
+DominoJOJO I was like you...ready to upgrade my old HD cam. Didn't know if I wanted to go 4K or not (was getting the Cannon VIXIA HF-G40, $1,300 HD cam), but in the end decided to go 4K. I looked at the Panasonic HC-WX970 ($900), Panasonic HC-WXF991K ($1,000) and the VX for $900 and the Sony AX53 ($1,000). But was really unhappy with the results of these "consumer" 4K cameras. I mean, if I'm going to spend that kind of money on a camera, it had better be good. So I looked at the Prosumer cameras...wow, expensive...but they had what I wanted; superior quality (way better than the consumer 4K's), multiple manual controls and built in ND filters. I settled on the Sony FDR-AX100/B but didn't want to pay $1,700 for one. Started looking around and Best Buy had a bunch for $1,000-$1,200 as open box demos, complete with factory warranty and full return policy. I basically got a Prosumer camera for the price of the consumer AX53.
+METAL-CROSS Cool guys . Nice to talk so people who make videos and have subscribers.
Tech Connect Likewise! Great review of the AX53. Well done and very informative.
On a side note, I found right off that video camera audio processors aren't very good. I always use an external source now for my audio, such as the Zoom H1. I match the H1 with a JK MIC-JO44 for interviews (the Giant Squid would also be a great choice). Even if you use a Rode shotgun mic mounted on the camera, you're still using the camera's weak audio processor. Great talking with you!
Hi can you please tell me I'm for filming a Wedding on Thursday with my Sony FDR-AX53 is it best to film in 1080P AVCHD Mode or Convert from 4K to 1080P i normally film in 4K but I've only 2 Cards and in 1080P i get about double the time on the cards.
The deal breaker on this camcorder is the resistance for rain, drizzle and weather proofing in real world application, any help would be great.
How is the Rolling Shutter on this Camcorder??
I have watched a lot of camera reviews and I liked yours the best. I think you convinced me into getting the Sony FDR-AX53. I not a professional yet but I'm going to be working on that. Just one questions: Is is shooting at 60 fps?
Mahalo,
Skeeter
Thanks Ronald. Yes it can shoot definatly shoot 1080p at 60fps. That's what I use most of the time. I love 60fps.If you do buy from Amazon will you use my Amazon link to add the camera to your cart? Same price just helps me support my channel. Cheers.
Yes, I'll use your link. One last question. Can I have it hooked up to my computer and capture video in Final Cut Pro to avoid having to upload it later?
I don't think FCP can capture live video via USB from any camera. I'm not a 100% sure because I use Premier Pro though. You would probably need an HDMI video capture device then you could use the cameras micro HDMI output to capture straight to a computer. I think the capture function is mainly for tape based cameras.
Do you live in Maui by the way?
Yes I do
best review i've seen out there.
thanks for buying an airplane ticket to show us some hand held conditions. lol jk great video thanks!
No problem. Hehe. Thanks.
Hey, nice video! Thanks. I was hoping to hear something about the HDMI... Do you know if it'd stream so one could also use the camera as a broadcast device? Obviously given that the receiving end can handle incoming signal through HDMI.
there is no HDMI monitoring while recording in 4K yet works fine in 1080 formats will play back 4K fine via HDMI just not output while recording in 4K if you want that facility then look at the AX700 the only reason I found out was when out very bright sun the flip out screen can be a little hard to see but I got around that problem by 3D printing a slip on should for the flip out screen, that is proving to work fine .
I give for the build quality off this Sony camcorder 9 out 10 if you shoot in 4K
You better post the video samples for download. RUclips downgrades the video quality, it actually looks so much better on 4k tv.
Is there actually any point recording in 4k if all I want to do with my videos is upload to youtube??
most people watch youtube on TV these days, so if your video quality isn't top-notch it'll look quite ugly on big screen.
bulbadox 👍
Can you make a video of this camera explaining menus and also telling us how to put in best video mode for green screen
I have not had very good luck with green screen on this camera. Basically you want to put it into spot metering mode to use a green screen. You can have someone tap the screen on you to lock metering on you in front of the green screen. On the Sony a6300 it does amazing on green screen. Just put it in center metering and center focus and shoot in front of the green screen. It looks amazing. The first part of this video was shot on the a6300 amzn.to/2fKkWZu with a green screen.
The image is great because it uses a Zeiss lens. If you use a regular Sony lens on it, it won't be as good and that's what brings the price up because Sony would slap on a Zeiss lens on it. I have the Sony FDR AX-100 4K video cam with a Zeiss lens on it.
at 8:31 you present "BOS ...shot in fairly shaky conditions". But, or it is BOS shot 1080, or not BOS in 4k (as the ax53 does not support BOS for 4k). Which one?
Thank you for the video. Was all of this handheld? I am looking for a camcorder that gets stable handheld footage without using a tripod. Thanks again. Awesome video!
thanks, your review was last drop and now I decided to buy it :-). Good review!
hi Rivers. did you ever post your calif trip you mentioned to show the fdr ax53 features/samples? I do videos for my club and my hd camcorder is 6 yrs old and i need to update it soon. thanks
I am having the hardest time picking the Sony over the Panasonic HC-WXF991K.
Should I get Ax53 or Sony RX100 V? Any reasons to get a camcorder nowadays?
Ken, you'll love the image stabilization. Here are my review thoughts:
This camera really excels in one department, and that’s the wonderfully effective Balanced Optical SteadyShot. There are four choices: intelligent, active, standard or off. When you turn the camera on (opening the side-screen or pulling the viewfinder rearwards will do) the camera shakes in your hand as the whole lens assembly jumps from rest and centres itself on the chip’s optical axis. This very powerful five-axis image stabilisation mechanism floats the whole lens block unnervingly, the block comprising (probably) 18 elements, two ND filters, the iris diaphragm, the zoom and autofocus operating solenoids. It’s quite remarkable to watch in operation as the complete lens assembly wafts about with a 7mm maximum excursion, as if it’s all floating on some invisible oil. This happens in real time; as fast as you can shake the camera the lens block counteracts you, painting the stationary chip with the stabilised image. The on-screen results are truly remarkable, and when combined with just a touch of Mercalli in-post stabilisation, make walks across a field look like tracks have been laid.
I knew how I could catch it out. Powerful OIS systems all show the dreaded and inevitable ‘overshoot and bounce back’, effectively ruining tripod shots. Of course such negative artefacts are there in your hand-held footage too, it’s just that the pros of OIS visually outweigh the cons. Anyway, I put the camera onto a nice fluid-headed tripod and did some quick pans and tilts. And you know what? The camera needs but one pan to ‘learn’ that its on a tripod, and how clever is this - it immediately switches the OIS off. Result: no overshoot whatsoever. Flicking the tripod’s quick release immediately and automatically re-engages the powerful OIS for hand-held use. It’s undocumented and I’m impressed. It’s a pity that shooting in 4k disables this magic OIS, but more of this later.
Thanks, Tom, for the additional excerpt from your review. I almost missed it because it is in a new comment!
The camera definitely has some impressive stabilization technology.
I’m puzzled as to why Sony doesn’t advertise the built-in ND filters. They would definitely be a selling point. A number of reviews note the lack of ND filters since they are common on competing cameras, especially camcorders.
I’m not familiar with Mercalli; I’ve mostly used Premiere Pro’s built-in stabilization. I’ll have to take a look at it.
Actually Ken I don't think highlighting the built-in and undocumented ND filters WOULD be a good selling point. The reason they're there of course is because camcorders of this ilk use tiny sensors (the 53 uses a chip slightly larger than ⅓'') and diffraction losses are horrendous, especially at short focal lengths (wideangle end of the zoom) and small apertures.
Manufacturers have been doing this for years. The Canon 310XL Super-8 camera had built-in undocumented ND way back in 1973. So if your camcorder doesn't have an ND filter switch on the outside then sure as hell they're built in. Panasonic, Canon, you name it.
Problem is of course that you're denied access to the lens apertures, so you can't control the DoF. I found out in my review though you CAN shoot in manual mode at smaller apertures than f/4, but the picture softness is horrible. You can see why Sony 'pretends' you can choose any aperture to control exposure, but in reality you're shuffling NDs in and out.
But making decent looking movies means keeping the shutter speed at 1/50th or so, any faster and the 'frozen frame' gives footage a very stataco look.
So there's reason for adding yet more ND to the front of the 53 to stop the camera upping the shutter speed in bright conditions. Except that I'd NEVER recommend it. Adding filters to any lens with such very short focal length is a real no-no.
Ah - compromises, huh?
@@tomrhardwick Yes, definitely a lot of compromises and complexity. I think I follow some of what you are saying, but not all.
Are you saying that Sony wouldn’t want to advertise the ND filters because it would bring more attention to the camera’s limitations (e.g., poor small aperture performance, lack of full manual controls)?
I am not understanding the last paragraph, particularly the last sentence: “Adding filters to any lens with such very short focal length is a real no-no.” It seems like adding an ND filter would cause the camera to adjust by opening the aperture, thus compensating, at least partially, for the diffraction induced softness associated with the short focal length.
That's exactly right Ken, if 'filmmakers' thought they weren't able to operate the camera in full manual control they'd feel cheated somehow. But Sony aren't alone, all manufacturers keep stum about the internally deployed auto ND. It's there of course to give you sharper footage, so it's there for all the best intentions.
The NDs are very close to the iris diaphragm so they're completely out of focus, even if they're only obscuring part of the aperture as they slide into place.
Placing filters on the front of the camera is a no-no because of the very short focal lengths give huge depth of field, even at wide apertures. Filters are ALWAYS dirty, however beautifully you clean them, and shooting into the light shows up the impurities as 'bits' on the footage. I'm afraid using such camcorders means accepting staccato footage in bright light.
@@tomrhardwick Thanks Tom. I appreciate your insights.
I don’t have a pressing need for a new camera right now. The ax53 is over 4 years old, and I’m tempted to wait and see if Sony comes out with an updated version. The recently released ax43 suggests that Sony does see a future for the consumer camcorder market, but the fact that it is a downgrade from the ax53 is discouraging. They may see more potential in the low end of the consumer market rather than the high end, so I have no idea when or if Sony will release an upgraded version of the ax53.
Thank you so much for this video! The way you covered the functionality of the multipurpose ring was very comprehensive. I've looked at other camcorders and their rings are only dedicated to focusing. Also the hummingbird and flower footage was beautiful. The moon footage, spectacular!
Interesting initial test results! Sony PXW-FS5 vs. A6300 - Sensor resolution and noise:
ruclips.net/video/xqvN-EV3l9s/видео.html
It's 120fps, not 180.
+snaileri Opps. I'll have to note that. Good catch.
I have always liked the 'fade out' function on other videocameras. It helps we separate 'days' etc. I can't find a 'fade out' on this camera. Is there some reason, some alternate function to use? Also there is no 'backlight' function I can find.
Battery Replaces the following Sony models: NP-FV30, NP-FV40, NP-FV50, NP-FV70, NP-FV100
not the ax53
Thanks for the review I appreciate it very much. Quick question. If I were doing continuous recording like recording a seminar for 5 hours. How long will the after market battery last? And how long will the memory card last? I guess what I'm asking is how many batteries and memory cards would I need?
Unfortunately, it's missing two key features for me...dual SD card slots and ND filters. But it's great for consumers.
Dont Waste your $ Its NOT axis Stablization, very poor LOW light, Good for Family barBQ,
What setup do you recommend for Sony AX53, if I want to use two mics (both wireless lav and shotgun going directly into camera), since there's only one mic input? Thanks
Important to me is the optical viewfinder. It's always bright here in Arizona. But when I look at the camera, it seems that the battery would keep your eye from being able to use the viewfinder properly. Or am I wrong?
Very good presentation with useful information. Your video clips are sparkling good.
Is this 4k camcorder really worth it? I saw this one (Sony) and Panasonic brand. Maybe if you could compare and contrast both of these brands? Thank you!
Hello Tech Connect, any suggestions on upgrading from Canon Vixia HF G20 camcorder with a $1k budget? Looking for later model camcorder with better low light recording! Thanks ahead with any suggestions!
I read a user review that the zoom isn't really 20x - more like 8 x, when compared to another camera. Anyone seen this?
Good job on the video. Does it shoot s-log 2 or 3?
Hi
Can you tell me how much space it takes 1 minute of video in 4K XAVC-S at 100Mbps?
thanks
About 682MB for a 1 minute clip at 100mbps.
The battery seems to protrude a lot, does that affect the use of the viewfinder? It looks like I would bump my nose against the battery every time I'd try to look through the viewfinder :)
can you just use the viewfinder to record or does the flap need to be out too so the camera comes on ?
Just curious.. i dont have a 4k TV nor new HD graphic card on my PC. would it be a problem to view the result later ?
would this be better than a sony rx10 first version? In terms of low light and overall image quality?
Have you used the Sony AX100 before? If so, how does it compare?
Great info video. How much noise does night mode produce? Is it usable?
Hate to break it to ya, but that’s the ax33
Because of you, I
bought the sony ax 53 .... and I'm sincerely very satisfied ... thank
you very much for your videos .... mine got much better with this 53....bye bye...keep the good work....big hug from Terceira Island in Azores....thanks
Glad to hear that Fernando. I love the AX53 as well and I'm still using it today along with the a6300.
Keep the good work, better reviews are yours...very well explained....thanks
All these great features. but I still need an external mic and I would love it if I could use it for a web cam for communication.
+DarkDennis1961 You can use it for the worlds most high quality webcam if you have an elgato game capture amzn.to/1MLw1Ht . Just connect the HDMI to it and you can use it as a video input in some software. I haven't actually done it though.
Tech Connect wow thanks. i will get one.
+Tech Connect how does this work exactly?
Can you upload to Adobe, icloud or an Iphone using the WIFI?
thanks very much for the vid, good stuff
Very good presentation and a lot of helpful tips and techniques.
Sony ax53 vs panasonic wxf991
I agree
I hesitate between Panasonic HC- VXF 999 and Sony FRD-AX53, what is your advice?
Looking for one that does the Inferred mode for Hog Hunting at night. Do you have any videos on that?
I have to correct my earlier question - I have a trv350. FX430 was the camera I had before that. The FX430 had a lot of motor noise when zooming. the trv350 is better but still picks it up in the recording. How is the zoom feature in the ax53? Also the other question was about the viewfinder. I see that it extends but is that a problem with the larger battery? Thanks and excellent review - really helped.
Hi Rivers! I just want to say I have enjoyed your channel. Thanks for the informative material.
I recently got a like new Sony AX-53 for 1/2 price on craigslist. My camera is a cannon Powershot SX-50. The cannon serves my needs for now and I LOVE the simplicity and image on the AX-53. However, I am wondering if the Sony a6500 would replace both. If so I would rather spend a little more to bring the minimum gear on my night time fishing charters.
Their are few comparisons of the 2 on you tube. So That might be a great video Idea. What is your recommendation? The AX-53 or the a6500? Thanks and keep up the great work!
Excellent review...just wanted to know whether AX40 available in India is same as AX53 or some upgrade?? I saw 64GB internal hard disk in the leaflet that I got from Sony store here.
I think they are similar but the AX40 has no viewfinder. Personally I rarely use the viewfinder anyway.
Good review.
For the price though it should have alot more optical zoom, and better slow motion.
What's with companies raising the price so high that you have to save a few months to even buy their product. I think things are way overpriced. Do I still buy them, of course. There's no other option but to buy the best that you can. You definitely get what you pay for these days.
very well done super job
can you record audio whit the builtin microphone and an external one at once?
Is this video filmed with the same camera?
I'm in the market for a camera that does at LEAST 1080, 60p. Excellent continuous AF and shallow depth of field are absolute MUSTS. 4K and 120 fps are a good bonuses. The Sony A6300 and the AX53 both do all of the above. I imagine the A6300 is better in low light (though the AX53 does well too). Both cameras are the same price (body only on the a6300), but I wouldn't be too upset over spending another $300 for a lens. Video quality is king. Can someone PLEASE point me in one direction or the other?
Have you tried it on a Tripod i just learned that footage is very Shaky when Zooming while on the Tripod and you can't turn on Stabilisation and i was looking forward to getting a new Tripod also i Film Buzzards in the sky and find on really Bright days its difficult to see them through the viewfinder it would need a better Eye Cup.
***** Thanks for comment I'm really only into Birds Of Prey though.
Well i like my Sony FDR-AX53 and love it i had planned on the Panasonic VXF990 but glad i went for the Sony for one thing they are built like a Tank compared to Panasonic,my last camcorder was the Panasonic X920 1080P.
You can really get over an hours of footage on one battery? I heard it was like 40 minutes.
+The Wooded Beardsman The screen says 2hr 40 min. I haven't actually run the camera for 1 hours starit recording but I have been out shooting for a few hours and I've never run all the way through the battery yet.
Tech Connect
Great, thanks for the reply!
No problem.
can you post the settings you shoot on? I have this camera and the 4k seems to be really grainy even in good daylight shots in doors, Yet all youtube videos shows the footage as nice and sharp? I don't get it?
Yeah I would like to know the settings you are shooting in. I'm not able to achieve such sharp images.
Great video. I have one question as I recently picked up this video camera. I can't find anywhere on the net if this camera can do streaming or act as a webcam? I saw it supports ustream but haven't looked in to that yet. Wondering if you might know some more? Cheers
Could anyone possibly tell me the best settings for recording at night time? I have shot a few night shots, and it looks a little more grainy and not as good as the other test examples I have seen elsewhere on RUclips? How do I get a brilliant picture at night? Does there have to be a certain amount of natural light? Please help!