Is there a cheaper camera that has some of the same functionality as a Sony PMW-EX1?

Question

I'm really wanting to get into video production on the side, but I don't know if I want to shell out $7000 just to see if I like video.

Answer 1

That is a very serious camcorder to start at...

Rather than an high definition XDCAM, perhaps a few steps down in the HDV world might be enough for you to see.

In the US, the HVR-V1U and Z1U... or on the consumer side, the HDR-FX1 or FX7... With the consumer versions you will want to get an XLR adapter for good mics... BeachTek and juicedLink are the ones I use... along with Shure and Audio Technica mics...