With the news of a successor to the HC1, known as the HC3, coming out in a few months, I was wondering what the chances are of a new FX1 (FX3?) coming out?

Here's the link to the HC3 news. http://www.camcorderinfo.com/content/Sony-to-Announce-Lower-Priced-HDV-Camcorder-HDR-HC3.htm

I'm close to investing in a 2nd FX1 but if Sony will be releasing a new FX1, i'll just wait it out.

Someone had told me that higher end Sony Video Cameras usually have a life of 2-3 years before a newer model comes out. Hopefully this applies to the FX1 because the HC1 is already being updated in less than a year. There's no manual focus / zoom ring on the HC3 but it has a lower lux rating and other updates. I wanted to pull the trigger on the 2nd FX1 before my events start up but the thought of an FX1 with maybe 1 lux / a little lighter weight / and maybe even a cheaper price would be amazing.

Personally it seems very early for them to update the FX1, especially since it evidently is a strong seller. There's some more daydreaming in this thread however :-) http://www.dvinfo.net/conf/showthread.php?t=56732

I don't think the HC3 is a successor to the HC1. It is a much simpler camcorder aimed at a lower market segment.

No one outside Sony knows for sure when the successor of the FX1 will be released. But in the last decade Sony has replaced their top-of-the-line consumer cameras only every three to four years. My guess is we will see the same cycle with the FX1. And, btw, there is not even a competitor to the FX1 available right now (JVC is twice, Canon three times, Pana four times as expensive - and all are aimed at different market segments than the FX1). Why would Sony hurry to release a successor ?