Among the benefits of the Sony FX3 over the mirrorless models is the ability to build it up with accessories without needing a full rig. It comes with a detachable top handle with XLR inputs and has various 1/4”-20 mounting points for your additional bits. While the FX3 is a stellar compact camera, there are some extra pieces that can make it a bit better.
The guys at CVP have a set of suggestions and optional components that will help you make the most of it. And maybe you will need to add some extra rigging to get there.
Even though it was designed to be cage-less, the FX3 does still have some cage options available on the market. This could be desired for certain setups. You can find cage options from SmallRig, Tilta, and others coming soon. Pick your favorite. Just make sure it fits your gear as CVP reported some lens compatibility issues with the 8Sinn cage they were using.
Reasons for using a cage on the FX3 include features like multiple holes/threads on the base for tripod plates. Availability and quantity of threads on the camera also limit placement. Plus, they aren’t secure threads with locator pins so they aren’t perfect. Another reason is when using larger lenses since the lenses won’t actually get proper height with tripod plates mounted directly to the camera.
Now, there are plenty of accessories you can use with ease. Like the SmallRig 1241 Cold Shoe which can be screwed into the 1/4”-20 threads. There’s also the ever-useful BongoTies for securing cables and other items. CVP actually has some fun KipperTies that feature a 1/4”-20 thread.
For audio, the included top handle has some good XLR inputs and control. It might not be ideal since if you have a lot of components to mount there isn’t much room for mounting. Recommended options include the Sennheiser AVX System as they mount directly into the XLR ports. Or, you can go for something even smaller like the Rode Wireless GO II with a 3.5mm to XLR cable. Mounting this is a good plus for the SmallRig Cold Shoe.
Timecode may be a concern and for this you’ll need to go for an audio timecode option. Tentacle Sync makes the Sync E and Track E, which are good options for a complete timecode solution. Both are very compact and easy to mount.
If you want to use the built-in mic mount and XLR handle as it is intended, you will need to pick up a mic for it. It doesn’t come packaged inside like the XLR-K3M module. Interestingly, CVP recommends a mic like the Rode VideoMic NTG. It’s fine, but if you are investing in an XLR mic I would probably upgrade to the NTG5.
One thing missing from the FX3 is an ND filter. It really would’ve been a separator between the FX3 and a7S III. If you need a filter solution, the RevoRing is an easily adjustable and swappable filter that’ll work with a range of lenses.
Monitoring is going to come down to personal preference. The monitor on the FX3 is fine. It just isn’t super bright and doesn’t have all the monitoring features you would like. My recommendation is the Atomos Ninja V as that gives you the option to record ProRes RAW.
The newer batteries are good, but if you want longer runtimes or a way to power multiple devices at once you should look at the Anton Bauer Titon Base Kit. It’s a slim, easily mounted battery option for these cameras.
Finally, we have lenses. This is really your choice. There are a ton of options for Sony E mount. If you need somewhere to start a good 24-70mm f/2.8 is where you should look.
The FX3 is a wonderful compact camera. Being compact there are some things you can build onto it that will make the experience that much better.
Do you have an accessory you just couldn’t live without?
[source: CVP]
Order Links:
- Sony FX3 Cinema Line Camera (B&H, Amazon, Adorama)
- SmallRig Camera Cage for Sony FX3 (B&H, Amazon, Adorama)
- Tilta Full Camera Cage for Sony FX3 (B&H)
- SmallRig 1241 Cold Shoe (B&H, Amazon, Adorama)
- BongoTies (B&H, Amazon, Adorama)
- Sennheiser AVX Wireless Mic System (B&H, Amazon, Adorama)
- Rode Wireless GO II (B&H, Amazon, Adorama)
- Tentacle Sync Sync E (B&H, Amazon), Adorama)
- Tentacle Sync Track E (B&H, Adorama)
- Rode VideoMic NTG On-Camera Microphone (B&H, Amazon, Adorama)
- Rode NTG5 Shotgun Microphone (B&H, Amazon, Adorama)
- RevoRing Variable ND Filter (B&H, Adorama)
- Atomos Ninja V 5” Monitor/Recorder (B&H, Amazon, Adorama)
- Anton Bauer Titon Base Kit for Sony (B&H), Adorama)
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate partner and participant in B&H and Adorama Affiliate programmes, we earn a small comission from each purchase made through the affiliate links listed above at no additional cost to you.
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