Sony Handycam FDR-AX1 User manual

Key Features
Capture 4K/60p video that far exceeds HD resolution
Playback 4K content captured on the AX1 on a compatible14K TV by simply connecting the two devices with supplied
HDMI cable. Thanks to original Sony technology, Sony BRAVIA TVs especially bring out the full quality of 4K/60p recordings.
Full HD monitors can also be used to enjoy this content by simply changing the menu HDMI output settings to 1920 x 1080.
XAVC-S codec allows extended 4K/HD video recording
The FDR-AX1 records 4K/HD movies in the XAVC-S format, which was developed for consumer usage based on the
professional XAVC 4K/HD format. XAVC-S uses MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 Long GOP for video and linear PCM for audio
compression, while saving les in an MP4 wrapper. The XAVC-S codec allows longer recording times within a given media
capacity than XAVC, making 4K recording easier and more convenient.
1/2.3” 8.3MP Exmor R®CMOS image sensor
Sony’s unique Exmor R®CMOS sensor is essential to the stunning image quality that the FDR-AX1 achieves. Its back-
illuminated structure featuring wiring layers on the back of a photodiode (light receiving element) dramatically boosts
low-light sensitivity for shooting better, more lifelike images even in dim lighting. Sony’s cutting-edge technology also
makes the camera nimble at reading massive 4K data at 60 fps.
Professional image processor for real-time 4K / 60 fps recording
An extraordinary image processor, identical to those in 4K camcorders used by professionals, rapidly processes signals
transmitted from the CMOS sensor and nalizes images. In processing the vast 4K data in real time at 60p, the processor
achieves four times the resolution of the HD format. This processor not only features high-performance noise reduction
technology for better image quality, it is also specically tuned for the AX1 so it delivers image processing performance
that accelerates the evolution of camcorders.
Sony G-lens with 20X (31.5-630mm eq.) smooth servo zoom
The “G Lens” advances the Sony heritage of image processing innovation by redening what an aspheric lens and
special low-dispersion glass together can faithfully reproduce. Accordingly, the “G Lens” is specially tuned to capture
qualities of denition and color that put these groundbreaking Handycam®camcorders in a class of their own. In addition,
the high-quality lens oers a broad zooming range from wide-angle to 20x optical zoom (31.5-630mm 35mm equivalent),
enabling an amazing range of video expression.
3 ND lters and 5 paint functions for expressive cinematic looks
The AX1 features three ND lters for adjusting the amount of light entering the image sensor from the lens. There are
four lter settings: O (Clear), ¼ lter, 1/16 lter and 1/64 lter. These lter settings give users the ability to adjust to light
conditions, while maintaining desired shutter angle and aperture even on bright and sunny days. Six paint functions
(white, oset white, gamma, detail, skin detail and matrix) can be combined and adjusted in the paint menu to create
expressive movie styling and cinematic looks.
Built-in mic w/2x additional Pro XLR jacks for external inputs
In addition to a high-performance internal microphone, the AX1 features two external XLR jacks for connecting external
microphones that can also be used to record superior-quality balanced audio synchronized to the video. You can also
mix audio from recordings made using the internal microphone and externally connected microphones, respectively.
7x assignable buttons and 3x control rings (focus/iris/zoom)
FDR-AX1 Sony’s First 4K/60p Consumer Camcorder
Tell your story in four times the resolution of Full HD with the 4K camera that’s
made for everyone. Shoot with the breathtaking quality of XAVC-S 4K/60p
and capture professional audio with XLR mic inputs. Even take direct,
manual control with zoom, focus and iris rings, plus 7 assignable buttons. The
groundbreaking power of 4K is ready to capture your imagination—experience
it with Sony. Let the revolution begin.

The AX1 was designed with two start/stop buttons (one on the side of the camera grip and another on the handle) for
ease of use while shooting.
The handle also features a zoom lever that enables convenient access while shooting from low angles.
Seven assignable buttons can be programmed with functions that enable users to quickly access them without using
menus. Assign functions to adjust to shooting conditions on the y such as Marker, Zebra, Peaking, Focus Magnier, Auto
Exposure Level, Steadyshot, Color Bars, Rec Lamp [F], Rec Lamp [R].
Two XQD card slots for high-speed 4K recording and playback
The AX1 uses XQD media card for smooth, high-speed reading and writing of 4K video and features two XQD media slots.
A relay recording feature makes it possible to lengthen recording by automatically switching between two or more
media.
The AX1 is compatible with following types of XQD media cards:
XQD media card S-series
XQD media card H-series
XQD media card N-series
View 4K 60P video on compatible BRAVIA®TVs w/supplied HDMI®cable
Playback 4K content captured on the FDR-AX1 on a 4K TV by simply connecting the two devices with supplied HDMI®
cable. Thanks to original Sony technology, Sony BRAVIA®TVs especially bring out the full quality of 4K/60p recordings. Full
HD monitors can also be used to enjoy this content by simply changing the menu HDMI output settings to 1920 x 1080.
Zebra, Peaking, Center marker and guide frame
Have condence in getting the setting right and not missing he shot. Tools such as Zebra, Peaking, Center Marker and
Guide Frame are professional features to enable precise manual control.
Zebra: While recording, this function highlights over exposed bright areas with stripes in the LCD and viewnder. This
feedback helps users adjust brightness and prevent whiteout.
Peaking highlights the area’s most sharply in focus, in the LCD and viewnder for accurate manual focusing. Users can
choose white, red, yellow or blue peaking to clearly contrast with the subject and adjust the peaking level to low, medium
or high.
Determine the center of your image at a glance using the Center Marker feature in the LCD or viewnder and use the
guide frame for aligning horizontal and vertical lines to ensure your captured image is within screen boundaries.
High-quality XAVC-S up to 150 Mbps 4K / 50Mbps HD recording
High quality XAVC-S can be recorded to 150mbps. Additionally, there is also an option to record very high quality Full HD
at 50mbps with the FDR-AX1.
Specications
Camera
Camera Type Digital 4K Video Camera Recorder
Imaging Sensor
Imaging Sensor 1/2.3” back-illuminated Exmor R®CMOS Sensor
Pixel Gross Approx.18900K pixels
Eective Picture Resolution Movie: Approx.8300K pixels
Color Filter System RGB primary color lters
Recording
Media Type XQD Memory Card x 2
Video Format XAVC- S format
MPEG4-AVC/H264
Video Resolution
HD: 1920×1080 60P (50), 1920×1080 30P (50), 1920×1080 24P (50), 1920×1080 50P
(50), 1920×1080 25P (50);4K: 3840×2160 60P (150), 3840×2160 30P (100), 3840×2160
30P (60), 3840×2160 24P (100), 3840×2160 24P (60), 3840×2160 50P (150), 3840×2160
25P (100), 3840×2160 25P (60)
Video Actual (Pixel) Approx.8300K pixels
Video Signal 4K (UHDTV), ITU standard
Microphone/Speaker Built-in Stereo Microphone, Monoral Speaker

Mic Level Control Yes(2steps)
Wind Noise Reduction Yes(O/On)
Optics/Lens
Lens Type G™ Lens
Lens Stabilization Optical SteadyShot™ image stabilization
Aperture F1.6 - F3.4
Optical Zoom 20x
Focal Length (35mm equivalent) Movie Mode: f=29.5～590mm, f=1 5/32-23 7/32inch
Filter Diameter 72mm
Minimum Focus Distance Approx.1cm(Wide), Approx.80cm(Tele),
Approx.13/32inch(Wide), Approx.31 1/2inch(Tele)
Aperture Blade 6 blades
Focus Ring in AF Mode Yes
Focal Distance f=4.1 - 82.0mm; f=5/32-3 7/32inch
Viewnder
Type 0.45
LCD Display
LCD Type 3.5" Xtra Fine LCD™ 3D display (1,229K) Wide(16:9)
Angle Adjustment Opening Angle:max.180 deg., Turning Angle:max.270 deg.
Brightness Control Yes(Menu)
Coverage 100%
Grid Display Marker
Focus Control
Focus System Contrast AF
AF Modes Auto/Manual(Ring)
Focus Area Full range Focus
Manual Focus Assist Magnied display for precise manual focus;
Peaking Display
Exposure System
Metering Modes Multi-segment
Exposure Compensation AE level/AE Speed (Menu)
Noise Reduction Yes
White Balance Mode Auto/Onepush/Outdoor/Indoor/Color temp
Minimum Illumination 60P : 4lux(1/30 Shutter Speed); 50P : 3Lux(1/25 Shutter Speed)
Auto Iris Control F1.6 - F11.0
Manual Exposure Assist Zebra Pattern Display
Manual Iris Control F1.6 - F11.0
WB Shi Yes
Convenience Features
Manual / Auto Lens Cover Manual
Erase/Protect Yes/-
Media/Battery Indicator Yes (recordable time)/Yes(icon)
Advanced Features
Audio Level Display Yes
CinemaTone Gamma/Color Yes
Image Stabilization Optical SteadyShot™ image stabilization
x.v.Color™ Yes
Interface

Memory Card Slot XQD x2
(for XAVC-S)
SD Output Composite Video Out (AV CABLE(sold separately))
HD Output HDMI Out(supplied)
USB Port(s) mini-B/USB2.0 Hi-speed/mass-storage～TypeA/USB2.0 Hi-speed /Host
Analog Audio/Video Input(s) XLR
Headphone Jack Stereo Minijack
Microphone Input XLR x2
Accessory Shoe Yes
DC IN Yes
HDMI Terminal Yes
Weights and Measurements
Dimensions (Approx.) Approx. 7 7/16 inch × 7 19/32inch × 14 1/4 inch (189mm ×193mm × 362mm)
(including the supplied battery)
Weight (Approx.) Approx. 5.38 lbs (2440g (Main Unit Only))
6.11lbs (2770g (including NP-F970))
Power
Power Consumption (in Operation) LCD Operation: 4K : 13.7W (30P,60Mbps), HD : 15.0W (60P,50Mbps);
Display Panel Operation: 4K : 20.6W(ACV), 4K : 19.6W(Battery)
Power Requirements 7.2V (battery pack); 8.4V (AC Adaptor)
Battery Type NP-F970
Soware
Supplied Soware Vegas Pro 12 (Voucher)
Service and Warranty Information
Limited Warranty Term 1 Year Parts 90 days labor
Accessories
Supplied Accessories
Rechargeable Battery Pack(NP-F970) (1)
AC adaptor(AC-NB12A) (1)
Battery Charger(AC-VL1) (1)
HDMI Cable (1)
USB Cable (1)
"Operating Guide"(1)
Large eyecup (1)
Lens hood (1)
A/V connecting cable (1)
XQD Card (1)
License CD-ROM (1)
Warranty (1)
1. The FDR-AX1 can only playback via HDMI in 4K to BRAVIA TV as of September 4, 2013.
2. At time of announcement, September 4, 2013.
3. The use of MP4 playback devices and soware does not guarantee that data can be played back in all modes.
© 2013 Sony Electronics Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Sony, and the Sony make.believe logo are trademarks of Sony. Microso, Windows, and Windows Vista are trademarks of Microso Corporation. Mac is a
trademark of Apple, Inc. All other trademarks are trademarks of their respective owners. Features and specications subject to change without notice. / UPC:/ Updated: September 3, 2013