Sony Camcorder With 3 3 Mp Sensor

Sony DSC-M1 Cyber-shot(R) Digital Camera is a remarkably tiny camcorder and digital-camera in one. A key reason is that video and still images are all recorded on MemoryStick or MemoryStick-Pro digital media. It doesn't use any tapes! It's also the first Sony Cyber-shot(R) Digital-Camera to offer MPEG-4 codec for excellent video motion recording and, in a sense, is styled more like a camcorder than a compact digital camera. Cyber-shot(R) DSC-M1 is a 5.1-megapixel digital still camera that pays particular attention to the role moving images play in preserving memories, and even more attention to making it easy to use. The camera, a slim, matte-black device about the size of a deck of cards, is held vertically, and its 2.5-inch articulated LCD swivels upward and rotates a full 270 degrees. This new shooting orientation provides more surface area to access both the menu navigation buttons and two "hot" buttons for direct access to recording stills and video. The outer edge of the LCD also has buttons serving two functions. While the LCD is extended and the camera is in record mode, the buttons can be used to record, and toggle back and forth between stills and video. When the LCD is facing outward, but flush with the camera's body, the buttons can be used to playback stills and video, turning the camera into a personal media viewer. Up to 640x480 VGA movie images Large 2.5 LCD viewer Auto and manual focus modes Programmed and manual exposure modes Self timer mode Approximate Unit Size - 2 x 4.5 x 1.1 inch

Amazon Sales Rank: #10854 in Camera & Photo Brand: Sony Model: DSCM1 Released on: 2009-11-30 Dimensions: 4.80" h x 7.50" w x 7.50" l, 1.00 pounds Display size: 2.5 5.1-megapixel sensor allows for photo-quality prints up to 13 by 17 inches Camera features 3x optical zoom in a unique vertical orientation Large 2.5-inch free-angle rotating LCD design makes viewing effortless Non-extending lens and Real Imaging Processor mean near instant startup and shutter release Supplied Cyber-shot Station makes camera-to-TV/PC connection quick and simple

Amazon.com Review Sony's DSCM1 interestingly designed 5-megapixel digital camera is easy to use right out of the box--and extremely fast, too. The M1 is ready to shoot about as quickly as you can fold out its free-angle LCD, and its unique form factor--the camera looks like a winged robot or a small boomerang--captures subjects' attention immediately. The M1's Twilight Portrait mode creates interesting effects.(See larger image.) The M1's great features don't end with its fast start-up time, though; the pictures and video this camera takes are amazing. We put it through its paces in a variety of situations, from indoor evening parties to snowy outdoor activities and all sorts of cafes and museums in between, and almost without fail, the results were gorgeous. The camera's Twilight Portrait mode creates great effects by combining a flash with a long exposure time, and the Auto setting could be relied on to deal with even backlit or low-light scenes. One of the M1's crisp, colorful images from the NYC installationof Christo's The Gates.(See larger image.) The free-angle LCD, in addition to wowing photo subjects and passersby, is also useful for taking overhead or low-to-the-ground images, or for composing self-portraits. After swinging out the LCD to turn the camera on, the screen can be rotated approximately 270 degrees, making complex shooting situations a snap. In addition, at 2.5 inches, the LCD screen makes viewing images a real pleasure, and we were amazed at how often we found ourselves taking a friend's picture and then showing the friend every image we had stored on the memory card, or pulling out the camera to review images privately during a few minutes of down time. The M1's interior shots from the new lobby of New York's Museum of Modern Art.(Click images for larger views.) It is also worth noting that the M1's autofocus does an excellent job of quickly evaluating a scene and making relatively intelligent assumptions about the image subject. In the rare cases where edges or features in images were slightly fuzzy, it would've taken a poster-size print for the problem to really stand out. In all cases, the autofocus was quite fast, further contributing to an impressive recycle time between shots. The areas in which the camera could have done slightly better were in a couple of the scene modes-- Landscape, for example, produced less stunning sunset images than the camera's Auto setting--and in transferring images to a computer. We found that images were less vibrant on the computer than on the M1's screen when transferred to a PC, using either the supplied Picture Package software or treating the camera as an external hard drive. However, it's easy to adjust them slightly using imaging software, and the muddiness did not occur at all when downloading the images to a Mac using iPhoto. One further drawback is that while the camera body is quite sturdy, the memory card slot is exposed, meaning that taking photographs in inclement weather is an iffy proposition. Also, because the camera comprises three segments joined by hinges, it's got more seams for water and gunk to seep into than would a camera with a simpler construction. (It was not unusual for us to transport the camera in a pocket and pull it out to find that a stray piece of paper had lodged between the LCD and body.) A case would go a long way toward clearing this up, though. --Sarah Sternau Pros It's fast Movie mode creates impressive MPEG4 video (with crisp audio) at a length limited only by available memory Unique form factor makes complex picture-taking situations easier Cons Bulkier than many compact cameras currently available Memory card slot is exposed, making wet weather a concern Some downloading methods caused the images to lose vibrancy, necessitating simple touch-ups The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-M1 is the ultimate 2-in-1 device. It allows you to record 5 MP-resolution still images with high-quality Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar optics and to capture TV-quality MPEG4 video using Memory Stick DUO with lengths limited only by the capacity of media. The camera's ultra-slim design makes it easy to carry in a pocket or purse and makes its large 2.5-inch LCD seem even more amazing! 1/2.4-Inch 5.1 MP Effective Super HAD CCD Super HAD (Hole Accumulation Diode) CCDs provide excellent image quality by allowing more light to pass to each pixel, increasing sensitivity and reducing noise. Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar Lens The Vario-Tessar lens is specially produced for compact cameras and provides rapid auto focus with appealing zoom range. Utilizing a highly transmissive optical grade prism, the lens is housed entirely inside the camera body, and does not need to extend for use. Folding the M1's 2.5-inch LCD back on the camera's body creates a personal media viewer. Innovative Design Compact and just 1-inch slim, DSC-M1’s vertical orientation and articulated LCD flexibly adapt to the demands of still and video recording, with direct access keys for each. Folding the 2.5-inch LCD back on the body creates a personal media viewer! Enhanced Control Layout The DSC-M1 is designed with "Mode-less Recording" functionality with dedicated oversized function keys designed for direct still image capture or MPEG4 movie recording. Real Imaging Processor The innovative Real Imaging Processor in the DSC-M1 not only improves picture quality and clarity but also improves camera response time, decreases shutter lag, and improves battery stamina. 3x Optical/2x Digital/6x Total Zoom 3x optical zoom helps you frame your shots for better digital pictures. And Sony’s Precision Digital Zoom provides an additional 2x magnification without the jagged edges of other designs, resulting in smoother images. 14-Bit DXP A/D Conversion Sony’s 14-bit Digital Extended Processor captures the range between highlight and shadow with up to 16,384 values, for extended dynamic contrast and detail. 2.5-inch Hybrid LCD Monitor The enormous 2.5-inch LCD provides a high-resolution view while shooting, with transmissive/reflective Hybrid design for extraordinary brightness in direct sunlight and large, easy-to-read menus. Unique in such a compact camera, this large screen makes it easy to share image playback with friends. The M1's free-angle LCD allows for great picturesin a variety of shooting situations. Free-Angle LCD Free-angle LCD rotates for the shooting/playback situation. Folded in for protection when carried or folded out for easy recording. On-LCD button functionality allows for recording ease as well as direct playback. Scene Selection Mode With nine Scene Modes, parameters can be matched to the shooting conditions. Choose from one of the following: Twilight, Twilight Portrait, Landscape, Snow, Beach, High Speed Shutter, Fireworks, Magnifying Glass, and Candle. Magnifying Glass Mode With its extraordinarily close focusing capability (1 centimeter) and oversized LCD, the DSC-M1's Magnifying Glass mode can display images at over 3x actual size. This capability opens up new possibilities in Macro photography. Five-Area Multi-Point Auto Focus By evaluating five separate focus areas of the frame, Sony’s Multi-Point AF system can intelligently focus on the subject and avoid mistakenly focusing on the background. In addition, you can manually select a point, or position a point anywhere in the frame with Flexible Spot AF (Auto Focus) Illuminator. Briefly illuminating the subject, in low or no-light conditions, the AF Illuminator helps establish a positive focus lock. Continuous Auto Focus To maintain accurate focus lock with fast moving subjects, Continuous AF keeps focusing from the time the camera is turned on until the moment of exposure, providing properly focused images even when your subject is moving. Memory Stick Duo Media Digital. Powerful. Transportable. Memory Stick Duo media is compact, portable, and rugged--connecting a variety of hardware and software applications. Multi-Burst Mode Captures 16 consecutive 320 x 240 frames as part of a single 1280 x 960 image which plays back sequentially in the camera or as a single image on your computer. Selectable 1/7.5, 1/15, 1/30 second frame intervals provide convenient motion analysis. MPEG Movie 4 TV Mode By capturing full-screen (640 x 480), high-frame-rate (up to 30 frames per second) video with stereo sound in MPEG4 format, DSC-M1 video clips have 50% more horizontal resolution and take up 1/4 the file size. This allows more clips to be stored and longer continuous recording. Hybrid Recording Selectable with still images, Hybrid Record combines a brief 320 x 240 video clip with the shot in a separate file. By capturing continuously before you release the shutter, Hybrid Record keeps five seconds of video and sound before the shot and three seconds after--perfect for unanticipated moments! The Sony Cybershot DSCM1 comes with a dock for charging batteries, and for connecting easily to a computer for image download or to a TV for big-screen display. Rechargeable InfoLithium Battery The rechargeable InfoLithium battery provides reliable, long-lasting power for continuous shooting, without memory effect. The supplied AC-LM5 adapter/charger provides stable power for USB transfer. Cyber-shot Station Supplied Placing the DSC-M1 on the supplied Cyber-shot Station provides a quick and easy connection between the camera and a TV for easy viewing, or a USB supported computer for MPEG video and still image transfer. It also supplies power to the camera for charging the battery. What's in the Box: Sony Cyber-shot DSC-M1 digital camera, NP-FT1 rechargeable InfoLithium battery, AC-LM5 battery charger, UC-MA Cyber-shot Station, stereo AV connecting cable, USB cable, wrist strap, MSA-32A 32 MB Memory Stick Duo media, Memory Stick Duo adapter, software CD-ROM

Most helpful customer reviews 147 of 151 people found the following review helpful. Christmas came early by Tim Mouradian This is a great little camera takes high quality pictures and videos incredible. I got this gadget as a replacement for my old Sony, and so far have been very hapy with both new functionality and quality of production. My only comment is that the software that came with the camera is basically worthless. The video was produced in MP4 format (which is actually QuickTime on steroids), so you need a decent MP4 players. I downloaded an MP4 player known as "MPEG variable", which comes as a standalone application or a plugin for Microsoft Media Player. It works very well in both modes. If you plan to convert video to other formats (such as writing to DVD) you should invest in a good drive, I have QuickTime Pro with great success. As a side note, my favorite DVDSource not work with MP4 Creator is produced by this camera. The video output (on the highest settings): Size: 640x480 Frame Rate: 2997 fps Bitrate: 2734 kb / s Audio: 2 channels Sampling rate: 24000 Hz Depth: 16 bit Bitrate: 123 Kb / s Video On closer inspection compression artifacts are visible, but overall the quality is very good. The low light performance is sufficient, given that a 3CCD camcorder is not. The camera has image stabilization, so try to limit or otherwise gentle movements of your hand. I had to throw my old memory sticks and related hardware (adapters, etc.), because this camera has a new memory format called Memory Stick Duo and Pro Duo. I bought half of a duo for the show from Dixons that the camera does without problems. The picture quality is very good, there are many new menu options to play. What is striking is how immideately 'magnifying' the new, and the "hybrid" mode. The latter can record video hybrid / even combinations. I'm not sure how useful it is. --- 1 week update: I had the opportunity to take more pictures and videos with the camera I'm still optimistic about the video features, images simply not so. First and foremost it is my conclusion that taking good pictures with this camera it is possible, however, requires some serious fine tuning of the menus to read the manual and understand the basic photografy. If everything is 'auto' mode the pictures come out blury left, standard flash is simply not enough, every single picture taken inside the red eye problem. There are also sporadic 'discolored' problem when the background is feverish yellow / purple for no apparent reason, it is what I have to deal with the problem. 1) Turn on auto-mode, ie ( maintain the program's function) 2) Turn off the multi-spot nonsense again focusing permanent position 3) Turn on the red-eye reduction function 4) Turn off AF illumination 5) increase from normal to flash flash + 6) Selected 3-megapixel format (this is arbitrary, I do not need the 5-megapixel images) 7) Try to select the correct ISO (100/200/400) and the balance of light in his hand before he fired 8) Try to keep your hand perfectly still when recording result is nice, cool pictures. But I feel that the provider must have programmed the automatic mode, so users do not have to go through the menus / setup all the time. The last thing I need is to learn the importance of speed histogram and shooting. Finally, an automated camera that is not forgiving. It will not be able to take pictures at a party (or anywhere else for that matter) without changing the menu setting or two. However, the understanding of how the camera works and to read the manual once (or twice) to improve the quality of the images. I would deduct a few stars from my original assesment 5 stars, but I do not think that Amazon can do it all at once the rating of 70 out of 72 customers found this review helpful. Wait until the M2 by Richard R. Harman Two shots from my old 3-megapixel camera.

Imaging Device: 1/3" 2100K Gross Pixels ClearVid CMOS Sensor Pixel Gross: 2100K Recording Media: MiniDV Cassette, Memory Stick Duo Media, Memory Stick PRO Duo Media Recording and Playback Times: High Definition: 60 minutes; Standard Definition: SP=60 min., LP=90 min. Video Actual: 1430K Pixels (16:9), 1080K Pixels (4:3) Still Actual: 1490K Pixels (16:9), 1990K Pixels (4:3) SteadyShot Image Stabilization (Super; Electronic) Accessory Shoe , Active Interface Shoe White Balance: Auto/Outdoor/Indoor/One Push Memory Stick PRO Media Compatibility: Tested to support up to 4GB media capacity; does not support high speed transfer function; does not support Access Control security function. Still Image Mode(s): JPEG Minimum Illumination: 2 Lux (0 Lux with Super NightShot Infrared System Low Light Capability: Super NightShot system Easy Operation Fader Effects: Black, Mono

Amazon Sales Rank: #7890 in Camera & Photo Brand: Sony Model: HDR-HC5 Released on: 2009-11-30 Display size: 2.7 2-megapixel ClearVid CMOS sensor; choose between HD & DV recording formats 4-megapixel still image capture; Super SteadyShot image stabilization Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T lens; 10x optical zoom/20x digital zoom 2.7-inch widescreen Clear Photo LCD Plus Memory Stick Duo media slot

Manufacturer Description Capture high definition (HD) and standard definition (SD) video to a MiniDV cassette with the HDR-HC5 high-definition camcorder. Record every detail of every moment with the 10x optical/80x digital zoom and Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* lens. However, you’ll be capturing more than just video with the 4.0 megapixel still image feature. Snap spectacular 2.3 megapixel photos while filming in dual record mode. The HDR-HC5 even slows down the audio. Get it all and get it in high definition with this amazing camcorder. HDR-HC5 Highlights 2.1-megapixel ClearVid CMOS sensor The 1/3-inch ClearVid CMOS sensor provides stunning detail and clarity with exceptional video (1080 lines of resolution in HD Mode or 530 lines of horizontal resolution in SD Mode) and 4 MP still image performance. Unlike traditional CCD imagers, CMOS sensors require less power and provide better battery performance. Switchable HD/DV format recording The HDR-HC5 is capable of recording and playing back both High Definition (HD) and Standard Definition (SD) video recorded on a standard MiniDV cassette. Real-Time HD Codec engine Sony developed a Real Time MPEG Encode/Decode system with reduced energy consumption and compact size to fit inside a personal camcorder. This engine provides efficient MPEG2 compression, and recording and playback of clear HD images at the same bit rate of the DV format, so that high-definition video can be recorded on the same MiniDV cassettes as are used for SD recording. x.v. Color x.v.Color can capture or display nearly twice as many (1.8x) viewable colors than currently possible. This provides a more accurate and vivid color range, for a more natural, lifelike overall experience. 10x optical/80x digital zoom The optical zoom helps to bring the action close up from far away. In addition, the Digital Zoom Interpolation means that extreme digital zooming is clearer, with less distortion than previous types of digital zoom. Professional-quality Carl Zeiss Vario- Sonnar T* lens Carl Zeiss lenses have an advanced optical multi-layer coating that offers less glare and flare with increased contrast. This results in vivid image brilliance, true-to-life color saturation and perfectg renditions of subtle tones. The additional T* coating on the lens further reduces unwanted glare and flare. 2.7-inch widescren hybrid touch-panel Clear Photo LCD Plus display The 2.7-inch 16:9 LCD screen provides excellent viewing clarity with improved resolution. The 211K pixel LCD screen rotates up to 270 degrees for multiple viewing angles providing sharp, detailed images for monitoring or playback, and the widescreen format makes shooting in 16:9 mode and composing shots even easier. Smooth slow record By increasing the record rate from 60 fields per second (fps) to 240 fps for 3 seconds allowing you to capture 3 seconds of fast motion and play the video back in 12 seconds. This is great for analyzing a golf swing or a viewing a bird in flight. In addition, record an audio track to narrate what is being seen in the video. Memory Stick Duo media slot Capture still images up to 2304 x 1728 resolution, directly onto Memory Stick Duo Media for easy trasfer to PCs for emailing, printing or sharing with other compatible Memory Stick media compatible devices. Dual record While recording video in high definition, you have the ability to capture a 2.3-megapixel still image directly to Memory Stick Duo media. Super SteadyShot image stabilization system Picture stabilization system that uses motion sensors to detect and compensate for camera "shake" without compromising picture quality like some other digital stabilization systems. Cinematic mode Perfect for creating your own movie masterpieces, the HDR-HC5 Cinematic mode lends 24 frame film-like effect to your recordings. i.LINK interface (IEEE1394) A high-speed, bi-directional digital video/audio communication between two compatible devices equipped with an IEEE1394 interface, including camcorders, digital VCRs, and PCs. Tele Macro function Useful for shooting close up shots, but without having the camcorder casting a shadow on the subject. Images shot in the Tele Macro mode will have the subject properly focused with the background unfocused so that the subject stands out. Active interface shoe Provides a location directly on the camcorder on which to add optional accessories while providing power and two-way communication to those accessories. Additional Features Built-in Intelligent Flash Super NightShot infrared system Scene selection modes Fader effects Picture effects InfoLithium battery with AccuPower Meter system Multi-language menu One-touch wide-angle shooting Easy Handycam button On-screen zoom and record buttons Manual focus

Most helpful customer reviews 26 of 27 people found the following review helpful. Very impressive for home use with S. Field I write this as someone who is not a true videophile, but who nonetheless pays some critical focus on image quality and usability. I'm not interested in any videos other than reasonable quality family videos. I have a SD miniDV camera for 7 years before buying this property. The image quality was observed on a Sony SXRD 60 "HDTV via component cable. I had no HDMI cable to the mini-port to try a digital connection. I bought this camera last week and tried it on a Memorial Day trip with family. Picture quality is very good. It's not quite as good as high quality HD feeds (Discovery HD), but it seems to me that he immediately got the most HD channels we have Comcast cable. Another poster said, the quality is much better than the DVD, but for me this is clearly not the case - it is * much * better than the online-DVD, although there are some detailed comments images that the interlacing artifacts, to display the current video that I not be able to see the effects of integration at all, even in fast moving objects. Sections work well, without artifacts or rear. For exterior shots, the picture is very beautiful. Interior night, with a level of ambient light, the picture is not as good with a grain of which are particularly well for objects with a smooth texture, such as painted walls. However, the image is acceptable for me. The camera has many features that are most accessible from the touch screen. However, you can use the camera in "easy" mode, which set a reasonable set of default settings selected. I confess that the only way that I used and the results were impressive. When I get to know more about the camera I can play with advanced settings. The camera can also take decent pictures, not on par with a good digital camera, but perfectly acceptable when you do not want to carry a separate camera One interesting feature is that you can take pictures in 16:9 format on the set. That does not stop filming, and images are stored on the Memory Stick. A maximum of three photographs, for example, can be taken in any sequence shooting (from start to finish). [Added 04/06/07] I used the camera a little more. 16:09 I compared the images taken in camera mode to video mode camera made in standard 4:3, and I could not see any significant difference in quality (which is not the be wider 16:09). This is despite the fact that Sony states in 16:9 mode images have a "real solution" to 2.3 megapixels, while in 4:3 with a resolution of 4.0 megapixels. (Note that as far as I know, the camera actually has a 4 MP sensor, but uses some kind of interpolation for 4 MP.) ) I also compared the images taken with my 2001-vintage Canon Powershot digital camera, the Sony HDR-HC5 was clearly better, but low-light capabilities of the Sony camera modes very bad, much worse than the low-light video features. In the normal indoor pictures are very grainy. Even in outdoor shots, faces in the shadow of a certain graininess. So in good light the pictures are good, but in low light they are not very good. [End] The battery life was OK. I estimate I got one hour or so of the included battery. This was enough for shooting perhaps 30 minutes of video in real conditions. I could load and edit video using iMovie HD on my Mac. I could not send it back to tape because of a FireWire problem with my computer, but I think it would look as good as the original. In general, I can recommend wholeheartedly this camera to anyone who cares about image quality, but it is an advanced camera that need specific features, for example, there have been some complaints about the lack of a manual focus ring, but in my daily use (and my 7 years.

The IS-DV Digital Camera/Camcorder from Aiptek pays close attention to detail, and let's you do the same with a maximum resolution of 5 Mega-Pixels and a swivel-reversible 1.8" color LCD screen. The image stabilizer and red-eye reduction make it ideal for the first-time videographer. Record videos at 30 frames per second in MPEG-4 Super VHS quality (640x480 VGA resolution) with sound. On top of all this, it's an MP3 player; voice recorder; and web cam. This product comes with 16mb of internal memory, and has a built-in SD card slot that can hold up to 1GB (Card not included). It ships with a built-in lithium battery and charger, usb cable, av output cable, camera bag, and ear bud headphones. Also includes Camera Manager, CyberLink Power Director Pro, ULead Photo Express SE, and ULead Photo Explorer software. Requires Microsoft Windows 98SE/ME/2000 /XP;Direct X8.0 or above, 128MB of Ram, 64MB Video Card, 4x Cd-Rom.

Amazon Sales Rank: #8017 in Camera & Photo Color: Silver Brand: Aiptek Model: IS-DV Dimensions: 3.00" h x 7.00" w x 10.00" l, Display size: 1.8 All-in-one unit that includes a digital still camera, digital camcorder, PC camera, voice recorder, removable hard disk, and compact flash card reader Swivel-reversible 1.8-inch LTPS color LCD display that combines striking realism and an intuitive interface, with better outdoor viewing than standard TFT screens Sensor has an effective resolution of 2,048 x 1,536 pixels at the 3-megapixel level, with a max video resolution of 640 x 480 pixels VGA at up to 30 frames per second Runs on a rechargeable Lithium-ion battery that recharges via the included battery charger, or via the USB connection when plugged in to your PC Measures 1.8 x 2.4 x 4.0 inches (W x H x D), and has a built-in CF card slot that allows a maximum of up to 512 MB of external memory

The new Aiptek IS-DV 5-megapixel digital camcorder is a multi-functional DV camera that pays close attention to detail and let's you do the same. The Pocket DV5100M features a 6-in-1 solution including video recording with MPEG-4 technology to give you VHS quality videos, and 5-megapixel resolution for still photos that gives you everything you need in one easy-to-use camera, and even functions as an MP3 player. The Aiptek IS-DV has a handy 6-in-1 multi-function design that includes a digital still camera, digital camcorder, PC camera, voice recorder, a removable hard disk and compact flash card reader, and an MP3 player all in one. This unit is equipped with a three Megapixel CMOS sensor, with still image resolution that is enhanced up to a maximum of five megapixels to deliver high-quality still photographs, and a macro lens that enables high-quality close-ups in prints up to 10 inches. The IS-DV utilizes high-compression MPEG-4 for recording movies--the ideal way to store video clips in a highly compact format--so you can not only shoot more pictures, but you can easily share them over the Internet or by e-mail, or view them on a PC or television. And as an added features, this camera includes advanced Digital Video Stabilization that compensates for slight movements while recording video. This pocket digital camcorder features a swivel-reversible 1.8-inch LTPS color LCD display that combines striking realism and an intuitive interface, with better outdoor viewing than standard TFT screens, for the best image every time, so you can review and play back video clips and pictures in real time. The IS-DV also features MP3 compatibility that lets you easily upload your favorite MP3 files and playback the music directly from the built-in speaker, or enjoy stereo quality music via the headset. This unit also features a 4-times real-time digital zoom, the ability to connect directly to your TV or VCR to play back video clips on the big screen, and a built-in flash strobe that allows you to take snapshots in darker environments and includes red-eye reduction. The Aiptek IS-DV's sensor has an effective resolution of 2,048 x 1,536 pixels at the three Megapixel level, with a max video resolution of 640 x 480 pixels VGA at up to 30 frames-per-second. This unit includes 16MB of internal flash memory, 13MB of which is available for storage, and allows you to store any type of data on the camera or external memory card and take it with you like a removable hard disk and compact flash reader. The IS-DV supports the NTSCTV system, allows up to one hour of voice annotation using internal memory, and has a 10-second self timer function. This unit stores still images in the JPEG format for easy transfer, has an auto exposure and auto white balance, and can connect to PC via USB 2.0. The IS-DV requires; Microsoft Windows 2000 or higher, a P4 processor or better, Direct X 8.0 or above, at least 256MB of RAM, a video card with at least 64MB of RAM, a 4x speed CD-ROM drive, and an available USB port for use with a PC. Aiptek's pocket digital camcorder auto powers off if idle over 60 seconds, and runs on a rechargeable Lithium-ion battery that recharges via the included battery charger, or via the USB connection when plugged in to your PC. This unit measures 1.8 x 2.4 x 4.0 inches (W x H x D), and has a built-in CF card slot that allows a maximum of up to 512MB of external memory. What's in the Box The IS-DV camera, rechargeable Lithium-ion battery, battery charger, wrist strap, camera bag, USB cable, AV output cable, headset (ear buds), user's guide, and includes the following software; Camera Manager, CyberLink PowerDirector Pro, ULead Photo Express SE, and ULead Photo Explorer.

Most helpful customer reviews 65 of 65 people found the following review helpful. High quality solid-state portable video recorder! With Reuben Gathright I took with the camera on a week's trip to Florida. I have never lost a fee and has more than 1.5 GB of content with this camera. The video camera is not SLR. Do not expect professional quality images from this camera. If you want the video shot, but it is the camera for you. Begin to buy a 1 GB memory card and shoot your best moments with your family. I suggest using the 640x480 mode, so the video in DVD quality. Zoom ... video zoom was great. I shot some video of my Jeep and offroad easily zoom in on more than 100 meters away in the jeep while shoting. I have never installed the camera software on my Windows XP-based PC. Instead, I have a Secure Digital memory card reader and pulled the files on the card. This video camera for $ 145 my Mustek DV4500 has replaced. I launched this camera around, it ran the battery down and let rest in a black Jeep in the sun for two days after I did that the camera was still running. The camera controls are not complicated like other cameras in this genre is. That said, one could make the case that a camera as cheap as it can easily be used by younger generations with ease. Advantages: 1) 640x480 video recording was seamless with excellent audio streaming. 2) Long battery life (under a value 1.5gbs a fee for photo and video recording) 3) Video stabilization really makes the video look sharper. 4) It may take a 1GB memory card 5) If you can wait 1 / 4 of a second, the pictures come out very well for a 5 megapixel camera with no real purpose. 6) Improved image quality of any video camera was massively in this genre. Disadvantages: 1) Poor flash photography Photos 2): shutter speed is over 1 / 4 of a second. 3) to recharge the battery requires removal of the battery. UPDATE 07/09/2006: I'm still using the camera. I keep in my jeep during the hot days in Louisiana, no problem I really like the quick start time of the camera, 5 seconds or less. I immediately shot the video or take a picture with the push of a button. 31 of 31 people found this review helpful. For the price - I had been adequately addressed by CJS designed to have a camera for a while 'time. I found this little trick by accident. I bought it because it was just a little 'more than $ 100 purchase from the store after taxes. In image mode, the camera is very good. The resolution is high, and even in the darkest of rooms feature flashing lights the room while the image is broken so that the image does not seem dark at all. However, in video mode, note that in low light conditions the camera is absolutely useless. No amount of tinkering with the settings create visible low-light video. In addition, low-resolution mode for video recording, image quality is close to horrible. High resolution image quality is much better and acceptable, but obviously we need more native storage capacity, can store about 45 seconds of video are acceptable and a 3-minute video of low quality. I have a 256MB card in hand, giving me only 15 minutes of decent video. SD cards are expensive, can a 1 GB card (which only allowed one hour of video) to be from $ 75 to $ 100 (the latter is the most common). The battery is acceptable for a cheap camera, but a serious user might need an extra, because it does not last much longer than half an hour. A friend of mine bought a present for his 12 years of age. As a gift for a child is good. The most likely break anyway. And for a small to carry the camera (in situations of light or dark) is good for adults, so you can store hundreds of still images, even sparsest SD card. However, anyone who seriously priceless moments capture on a digital video camera in search of something better lighting and more storage, provides such as DV, you will not get in this price range, however, so for.

The Sony HVR-A1U camcorder captures 1080i HDV images using a newly developed 1/3-inch type, 2.97-megapixel (total) CMOS sensor with new Enhanced Imaging Processor(tm) technology that optimizes the performance of the CMOS sensor. The result is HD quality imaging that has been used to produce television and professional film content. Available at an extremely affordable price, the HVR-A1U will be another powerful option for HD field acquisition by all video professionals.

Amazon Sales Rank: #2805 in Camera & Photo Color: Black Brand: Sony Model: HVRA1U Released on: 2005-10-01 Dimensions: 1.54 pounds Display size: 2.7 High-definition video camera records in 1080i, 720p, and 720i specification with analog down-converting 16:9 widescreen recording; 4:3 conversion capable Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* 10x optical zoom lens; digital Super SteadyShot System dampens hand jitter and vibration CMOS camera system; records to conventional DV tape stock Powered by NP-FM50 InfoLithium rechargeable battery pack 16:9 widescreen recording , 4:3 conversion capable CMOS camera system , records to conventional DV tape stock Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T 10x optical zoom lens; digital Super SteadyShot System dampens hand jitter and vibration

The HVR-A1U is a compact and lightweight handy-type camcorder, ideal for shooting environments that require mobility. Its size, combined with its long battery life (up to 80 minutes of high-definition recording with the included battery), make it easy to get the shots you need, when you need them. See large image HDV 1080i The HDV 1080i specification features 1080 effective interlaced scanning lines and 1,440 horizontal pixels. Interlaced pictures, which have been common to TV broadcasts from the beginning, alternately display odd and even numbered lines between each screen refresh. The HVR-A1U can also record at the HDV 720p specification, which features 720 effective progressive scanning lines and 1,280 horizontal pixels. Progressive scanning fills both odd and even numbered lines with each refresh, providing a flicker-free picture. Not yet ready for HD? The HVR-A1U can convert material from 1080i down to 480i and output this digital video signal through its i.LINK interface or as analog signals through component, composite, or S-video connectors. When down-converting these signals, the aspect ratio displayed can be converted from 16:9 to 4:3, and display modes can be selected from squeeze, letterbox or edge crop. 1/3-inch Type, 2.97-megapixel CMOS sensor The HVR-A1U incorporates one 1/3-inch type primary color CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) 2.97-megapixel sensor with a formatted for a 4:3 aspect ratio. The advantage of a CMOS sensor over CCD is it's ability to process a large volume of picture data at a very small size, which makes it possible for a camera this size to capture HD video. The trade off for this kind of chip over CCD, however, is a small loss in picture uniformity and dynamic range. Keep an eye on audio levels on the LCD monitor Audio The HVR-A1U adopts the MPEG-2 compression format, which uses 8-bit digital component recording with a sampling rate of 4:2:0. The camera uses MPEG-1 Audio Layer II audio compression format, allowing for two-channel recording with a sampling frequency of 48 kHz/16-bit. It features a built-in stereo microphone, as well as two XLR audio input connectors for use with professional-grade microphones or external audio sources. Each input level for CH1 and CH2 can be independently adjusted using two audio level dials on the camera body and viewed with an audio level meter on the LCD monitor. Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* 10x optical zoom lens The HVR-A1U is equipped with a Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* high definition lens with a 10x zoom function. It has the same optical coating as is used on all of the Carl Zeiss prime lenses, which produces sharp, high-contrast images with virtually no chromatic aberration. In order to facilitate zoom control and recording operation during low-angle shooting, an additional zoom lever has been added to the camera body. There's also a zoom/focus ring located on the lens body that allows for fine adjustments in zoom position. Furthermore, the supplied wireless Remote Commander unit can be used for external control. Large, 16:9 widescreen color viewfinder and LCD monitor View your subject through the built-in viewfinder, the swing-out LCD display, or both. The HVR-A1U features a 0.44-inch type color LCD viewfinder and a 2.7-inch color LCD monitor, both in a 16:9 aspect ratio. You'll save battery time by using just one, but you may want to use one for adjusting focus and the other for monitoring audio levels. When eschewing auto focus for the fine-tuning manual focus, you can double the magnification at the center of the screen, making it easier to confirm focus settings during manual focusing. Also, the camera's "peaking" function can provide sharp outlines on the monitor to help with manual focus. Electronic Super SteadyShot system Sony's electronic Super SteadyShot System helps remove the slight hand jitter and vibration that is often the bane of video production--especially during telephoto shots. It does this by trimming off edges of the frame on the fly to counteract movement. Tele Macro picks up details on subjects from a distance Tele Macro It may seem like a contradiction in terms, but the Tele Macro function allows you to capture a macro image from a distance, which is useful for shooting small moving objects. Additionally, this function puts your subject in proper focus while leaving the background out of focus. The Hollywood look The HVR-A1U has features that can make your videos look more like they were shot on film. Cinematone Gamma allows operators to quickly setup and load a gamma curve with similar contrast characteristics to a film gamma curve. The Cineframe feature allows movement to be reproduced at 24 frames per second--the speed of film--as opposed to video's 30 frames per second standard. No new tape stock The HVR-A1U is compatible with conventional DV tape stock, but Sony recommends the use of DigitalMaster PHDVM-63DM tape, with its dual layer of magnetic material, which delivers higher RF output, lower noise, 95% fewer errors and 60% fewer dropouts compared to regular DV tape. More camera features ·Assign button -- get quick access to a variety of settings   ·Time Code Preset -- fill in any timecode starting value ·Shot Transition -- creates smooth automatic transitions between scenes   ·Color Bar -- Two types ·Status Check -- displays camera setting menus for audio, output signal, assign button and exposure lever functions and hours meter on the LCD monitor   ·Zebra -- displays a striped pattern in the LCD monitor and viewfinder across highlight areas, helping manual exposure settings ·Quick REC -- shortens the record interval from stop mode.   ·Personal Menu -- allows operators to customize the setting menu ·Battery Info -- displays the attached battery's current charge level and its current remaining recording time on the LCD monitor   ·Histogram Indicator -- allows you to easily evaluate the brightness of your scene ·Super Night Shot -- allows operators to capture images in black and white using a built-in infrared light   ·Skin Tone Detail -- reduces detailed signal for skin color, smoothening the reproduction of human skin ·Black Stretch -- allows more contrast to be seen in dark parts of the picture without affecting mid-tones   ·Backlight Compensation -- produces natural tones for both light and dark areas of backlit subject What's in the box HVR-A1U camera, AC-L15 AC adaptor, power code, NP-FM50 InfoLithium rechargeable battery pack, lens hood with lens cover, RMT-831 wireless Remote Commander unit, A/V connecting cable with S video, component video cable, USB cable, Memory Stick Duo (16 MB), Memory Stick Duo adaptor, ECM-NV1 monaural electret condenser microphone, XLR audio adaptor, shoulder strap, and operating instructions. The Sony HVR-A1U camcorder captures 1080i HDV images using a newly developed 1/3-inch type, 2.97-megapixel (total) CMOS sensor with new Enhanced Imaging Processor(tm) technology that optimizes the performance of the CMOS sensor. The result is HD quality imaging that has been used to produce television and professional film content. Available at an extremely affordable price, the HVR-A1U will be another powerful option for HD field acquisition by all video professionals. Manufacturer Description The HVR-A1U 1080i HDV camcorder provides real 1080i HD acquisition, with superb image quality and comprehensive functionality for professional use, in a "handy" camcorder form factor. This HDV camcorder will help to expand the adoption of HDV and lead the entry level HD market by providing a compact and low cost solution. The HVR-A1U features a newly developed 1/3-inch C-MOS imager. This 1,920 by 1,080 native imager is also capable of 3 megapixel still images. Combined with a high quality Optical Zoom Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T Lens and Sony's 14 bit A/D and DXP digital Extended Processor, result in precise image acquisition with superb detail and clarity. The HVR-A1U records this exceptional imagery using the recently adopted HDV 1080i format onto a DVCAM mini cassette. HDV 1080i Specification The HDV 1080i specification of the HDV format features 1,080 effective scanning lines (interlace scanning system) and 1,440 horizontal pixels. It adopts the MPEG-2 compression format (MP@H-14 for video), which uses 8-bit digital component recording with a sampling rate of 4:2:0. MPEG-1 Audio Layer II is used as the audio compression format, allowing for two-channel recording with a sampling frequency of 48 kHz/16-bit. The HDV 1080i specification provides high picture quality that can be used for HDTV program production. Compatible with Existing and New DV Videocassette Tape As a member of the proven DV family of formats, the HDV format has, from the outset, been developed for compatibility with all grades of DV videocassette tape. This allows operators to use high-grade DV videocassette tapes for applications where high robustness is critical, or consumer grade videocassette tapes for more economical operations. For heavy-duty applications, a new high-grade mini cassette tape has been developed; the DigitalMaster PHDVM-63DM. This tape is compatible with the HDV, DVCAM, and DV formats. Long Recording Time The HDV format adopts the same track pitch and tape speed as the DV format, thus offering the same recording time -- a maximum of 63 minutes when recording on a DigitalMaster mini cassette tape. 1/3-inch Type, 2.97-megapixel CMOS Sensor The HVR-A1U incorporates one 1/3-inch type primary color CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) sensor with a total pixel number of 2.97 million and a 4:3 aspect ratio, which has been developed based on Sony's many years of experience in developing imaging devices. This CMOS sensor can produce high-quality images with high sensitivity and low noise levels, which is superior to most of traditional CMOS sensors due to advantages such as its unique pixel design, which optimizes the photo-sensor area in each pixel, and advanced noise reduction technique. Another key advantage of this CMOS sensor is its high-speed processing capability. Since data captured using a single CMOS sensor for high-definition format recording is extremely large, it would take considerable time to transfer and process by traditional methods. With the Sony CMOS sensor, such large data can be processed at an incredibly high speed thanks to its flexible multi-channel readout structure. Use of the CMOS sensor also allows even large amounts of HDresolution data to be processed with amazingly low power requirements, thus making the camcorder's overall size extremely compact. Lastly, CMOS sensors can eliminate vertical smear, even though the pixel size is small. Enhanced Imaging Processor (EIP) The EIP is Sony's newly developed image processing IC intended for high-speed processing of large amounts of data captured by the CMOS sensor. In addition, the EIP employs the unique algorithm that first separates image data into texture patterns and brightness components and then processes these two elements independently. This makes it possible to have high details in the blacks as well as in brightly illuminated areas of the picture, delivering a clear image with a wide dynamic range even under backlight conditions. Combined use of the EIP and CMOS sensor allows the camcorder to provide extremely high image quality with a high level of gradation and detailed image reproduction. Optical 10x Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T Zoom Lens The HVR-A1U is equipped with the Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T high-definition lens with 10x zoom function. Its fully coated glass is the same as used on Carl Zeiss prime lenses, producing sharp, high-contrast images, with virtually no chromatic aberration. Electronic Super SteadyShot System The Super SteadyShot system used in the HVR-A1U detects horizontal and vertical movements and electronically compensates for unsteady camera handling. The active image area (the number of pixels used) in the CMOS sensor is automatically adjusted for the Super SteadyShot system to achieve the best performance at each zoom position. Full Scan Mode The HVR-A1U camcorder offers a Full Scan mode, which allows the camcorder to capture images with the resolution of approximately two million pixels at every zoom position when the Super SteadyShot system is off. With this mode, images of higher picture quality can be obtained. Switchable Recording and Playback – HDV 1080i/DVCAM/DV The HVR-A1U can switch between HDV 1080i, DVCAM, and DV recording, providing full flexibility to record in either standard or high-definition format depending on production needs. The HVR-A1U supports DV SP mode only; no support for DV LP mode. Down-conversion Playback Capabilities The HVR-A1U can convert material from 1080i down to 480i, and output these video signals through its i.LINK interface. In addition, these signals can also be output via either analog component, composite, or S-Video connectors. This allows editing of recorded material with a nonlinear editing system using current DV editing software as well as recording SD signals to an external VTR, while simultaneously recording HDV signals with the HVR-A1U. The HVR-A1U can also down-convert to 480P and output these signals through its analog component video connectors. When down-converting these signals, the aspect ratio displayed can be converted from 16:9 to 4:3. Display modes can be selected from Squeeze, Letterbox, or Edge crop. HD Codec Engine The HVR-A1U employs the highly advanced HD Codec Engine feature, which efficiently compresses base band HD signal data at approximately 25 Mb/s with MPEG-2 compression, while maintaining optimal HD quality. Designed for reduced energy consumption, this powerful digital signal processor fits perfectly inside the compact and streamlined body of the HVR-A1U. Still Picture Recording to Memory Stick Duo Media The HVR-A1U incorporates a high-resolution digital camera function. Thanks to the 2.97-megapixel CMOS sensor, still pictures with 1,920 x 1,440 pixels can be recorded to Memory Stick Duo media. Still pictures can be captured by pressing the dedicated ‘Photo' button, and this can be done even when recording video to tape, without any interruptions. In addition, any desired video frame recorded on tape can be captured as a still image with 1,440 x 810 pixels and recorded onto Memory Stick Duo media after video shooting. 16:9 Widescreen Acquisition in DVCAM and DV Formats The HVR-A1U is capable of native 16:9 widescreen image capturing, with a high resolution of 720 x 480 pixels in DVCAM and DV formats, and providing true 16:9 images in Standard Definition. i.LINK Interface The HVR-A1U is equipped with a 4-pin i.LINK interface. This allows for on-cable digital transfer6 of audio, video, and command signals to a connected, compatible VTR or nonlinear editing system in the HDV, DVCAM, and DV formats. 2-channel XLR Audio Input The HVR-A1U provides two XLR audio input connectors for connecting professional microphones or for feeding an external-line audio source. Phantom power of approximately 48 V can be supplied for the external condenser microphone. Input 1 audio can be recorded on CH1 only, or on both CH1 and CH2 audio tracks, with easy selection via a switch. The HVR-A1U also comes equipped with two types of microphones; an external directional microphone and a built-in stereo microphone. 2-channel Independent Audio Record Level Control with Audio Level Meter Each input level for CH1 and CH2 can be independently adjusted and viewed with an audio level meter on the LCD monitor. Compact and Lightweight Design The HVR-A1U features an extremely compact and lightweight body, providing an unprecedented level of mobility in HD field acquisition. The camcorder itself weighs only 1 pound 7 ounces and just 2 pounds 14 ounces including the lens hood, XLR audio adaptor, directional microphone, NP-QM91D InfoLithium Rechargeable Battery Pack, and PHDVM-63DM DigitalMaster Mini Cassette Tape. 16:9, Color/Black-and-white Switchable LCD Viewfinder The 0.44-inch type color LCD viewfinder displays high resolution color pictures of approximately 252,000 pixels in a widescreen aspect ratio of 16:9. Operators can select to display pictures in either color or black and white to match the user's preference. 2.7-inch Type, 16:9 Widescreen, Hybrid, Color LCD Monitor The HVR-A1U includes a 2.7-inch type color LCD monitor with a high resolution of approximately 123,200 pixels, which allows the input source to be viewed during recording or the playback picture to be checked on location in a widescreen aspect ratio of 16:9. This large screen is also helpful in setting menus or audio recording levels, as well as monitoring the camera and audio status. The hybrid LCD monitor used in the camcorder combines the characteristics of both transmissive and reflective LCD panels, providing clear viewing even in bright daylight conditions as well as in dark conditions. This LCD monitor also provides touch-panel control for easy operations. Variety of Zoom Operation The HVR-A1U provides four types of zoom control functions to offer diverse shooting styles: "Zoom lever" located on the camera body "Zoom/focus ring" located on the lens body – allows fine adjustments in zoom position "Zoom buttons" located on the LCD monitor – convenient for low-angle shooting Supplied wireless Remote Commander unit Exposure Lever The HVR-A1U enables exposure control both manually and automatically. The Exposure Lever provides two types of exposure control: Manual exposure control to manually change exposure settings using the Exposure Lever. AE (Auto Exposure) Shift function to adjust AE level by 15 steps using the Exposure Lever, while the AE mode is activated, for more accurate automatic exposure settings. Tele Macro The Tele Macro function allows operators to capture a macro image from a distance, which is especially useful for shooting small moving objects. With this function, close-up images can be shot without the camcorder casting a shadow on the subject. In addition, the image of the subject is shot in proper focus, while the background is unfocussed, allowing the subject to stand out. Backlight Compensation The Backlight Compensation function allows the HVR-A1U to produce natural and rich tones for both light and dark areas of an image under backlight conditions. Conventional systems of backlight compensation tend to make the details in light areas sacrificed, but the Backlight Compensation function of the HVR-A1U can deliver superior images with a very wide dynamic range by increasing only the brightness of dark areas while properly retaining the brightness of light areas. Other convenient functions Simultaneous operation of LCD monitor and viewfinder Expanded focus - magnifies the center of the screen on the LCD monitor and viewfinder to about twice the size, helping manual focusing. Peaking - enhances the outline of the image where the camera focuses on most, and displays the enhanced outline with color in the LCD monitor and viewfinder, helping manual focusing. Zebra - displays a striped pattern in the LCD monitor and viewfinder across highlight areas, helping manual exposure settings (100% or 70 to 100% (adjustable by 5% steps)). Quick REC - shortens the time until the recording starts from stop mode. Status check - displays camera setting menus for audio, output signal, assign button and exposure lever functions and hours meter on the LCD monitor with the touch of a button for easy check. Personal menu - allows operators to customize the setting menu to display frequently used menu items. Battery info - displays the attached battery's current charge level and its current remaining recording time on the LCD monitor with the touch of a button, when the power is turned off. Super Night Shot - allows operators to capture images in black and white using a built-in infrared light, even in no light conditions. Skin tone detail - reduces detailed signal for skin color, smoothening the reproduction of human skin. Black Stretch - allows more contrast to be seen in dark parts of the picture without affecting mid-tones while maintaining the absolute black level. Color Bar - Two types White Balance - Auto, One Push Auto, Indoor (3200 K), and Outdoor (5800 K) What's in the Box: Sony HVR-A1U, AC-L15 AC adaptor, power code, NP-FM50 InfoLithium rechargeable battery pack, lens hood with lens cover, RMT-831 wireless Remote Commander unit, A/V connecting cable with S video, component video cable, USB cable, Memory Stick Duo (16 MB), Memory Stick Duo adaptor, ECM-NV1 monaural electret condenser microphone, XLR audio adaptor, shoulder strap, operating instructions.

Most helpful customer reviews 50 of 50 people found this review helpful. By Angela Kovacs great camera I bought this camera for my production business with a start and it was the best train I could do. This camera is ideal for a beginner like me. It is easy to use and makes adjustments. The HD is amazing, my clients are, the videos in HD are absolutely flattened us, they get their finished product. May be a few things I've found, I recommend a tripod and a longer battery. The battery provides only about 45 minutes LCD shares and if you add something else, then the shotgun microphone, it is lowered even more. Be sure to use strips of high quality. (I found out the hard way) Good band for this device costs about $ 10 to $ 15 but it's worth it when you reduce the time taken to re-tape can fall through the film. Everything together for me this is a great camera for the price. You are nothing better than $ 8,000 or more to run. 61 out of 65 people found this review helpful "HDR-HC1 on steroids by J. A Harring Correction: high-definition camcorder records in 1080i, NTSC or 480 (known as standard DV or DV) with the specific analog down conversion. -> Do not record in 720p or 720th. But this is not a problem, just a correction. In addition, all outputs (for editing), firewire, digital format. You can see the results on a TV via composite, S-VHS or component. Audio is RCA L / R In other gentleman observed, it is more a serious amateur (dare I say pro?) Camera to be used. This is much more than the average user wants or needs. And 'largest and heaviest the camera base. But shoot HDV 1080i and has gained a reputation as a documentary camera in situations where the camera may be damaged. The main features of his brother and HC1 and HC3 "HC1 of the same size, except for the inclusion of sound" pursue ". No built-in flash, but you're shooting a video, not stills. Audio is much more flexible than the other, the HC3 camera alone. HC1 L & R channels are bonded, without independent testing. HC1 also only accepts unbalanced input (or $ 269 to spend on beach audio converter and another U.S. $ 200 for shotgun equivalent). A1U is balanced input (XLR) and a separate audio. A1U also black stretch option for a better definition of the darker scenes. Even if you output to 4:03 SDV, you can choose to letterbox, stretch or cut output. Other cameras do not offer this (not sure about HC3). A1U generally has more than 50 additional functions compared to HC1. Also, if you want to edit HDV, is an expensive proposition. Make sure to thoroughly research before this. It requires a fairly robust PC. Expect to about 13 gig per hour of video consumption. It is possible to produce and edit SDV today that with a video editing program and $ 50 later recording in HDV and output in high definition, because it is integrated ... future proofing yourself. 7:08 - While AVCHD (flash memory) cameras are becoming popular, more powerful computer for editing and as of this writing, the software to edit files are only now becoming available so be sure to see the flow of work before you jump in. One good thing is, most HD camcorders have HDMI or component video and can be used to reproduce high-definition televisions in full resolution. It is quite impressive and will make you glad you bought one, but might have to wait to buy the rest of the components needed to edit. PS Look for the Sony HVR-A1U to "Ice Road Truckers" and "Deadliest Catch" and other similar programs in HD. 38 of 40 people found this review helpful. Real professional camcorder Konrad Haskins This camcorder is the Sony Professional division with professional support level of assurance. The sound is 70% of the experience and this camcorder offers the PRO-level XLR connectors with 48V. For best results the volume manually as high as possble to keep peaks below 0 dB CMOS sensor.

Sony's HDR-HC7 High Definition Handycam(R) Camcorder places the pinnacle of high definition in your hands. It's never been easier to capture the highest quality, high definition video possible on a MiniDV cassette. View the world through a professional grade Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T Lens with 10x optical/20x digital zoom and a 1/2.9" ClearVid CMOS Sensor. Take command of your pictures as you manually control focus, exposure, shutter speed, auto exposure shift and white balance shift. View everything you shoot on the 2.7" Touch Panel Swivel Screen. Super SteadyShot(R) technology and the Super NightShot(R) feature will help you capture videos you'll want to share with the world. 2.7 widescreen 16 - 9 hybrid LCD touch panel -- rotates up to 270 degrees for multiple viewing angles Smooth Slow Record - Increase the frame rate from 60fps to 240fps, capturing smooth slow motion Super SteadyShot(R) compensates for camera shake without compromising picture quality Record an audio track to narrate what is being seen in the video Cinematic Mode adds a frame film-like effect to video -- perfect for creating home movie masterpieces Tele Macro Function handles close-ups without casting a shadow on your subject One-touch wide angle shooting; manual focus; on screen zoom & record buttons Dual Recording - While you record high definition video, you can also capture 2.3 Megapixel still images directly to a Memory Stick(R) Duo (up to 2304 x 1728 resolution) i.LINK (IEEE1394) interface for easy connection to camcorders, digital VTRs, capture cards and PCs Built-in intelligent flash InfoLithium battery with AccuPower(TM) Meter System Manual focus Multilanguage menu Measurements - 3-1/4 x 3-1/4 x 5-1/2 (82 x 82 x 138mm) Weight - 1 lb. 6 oz. (650g) with tape & battery

Amazon Sales Rank: #6799 in Camera & Photo Brand: Sony Model: HDR-HC7 Display size: 2.7 3-megapixel ClearVid CMOS sensor; choose between HD & DV recording formats 6.1-megapixel still image capture; Super SteadyShot image stabilization 2.7-inch widescreen Clear Photo LCD Plus Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T lens; 10x optical zoom/20x digital zoom Memory Stick Duo media slot

Manufacturer Description Sony's Super SteadyShot optical technology and Super NightShot feature help the HDR-HC7 capture the highest quality high-definition video possible on a MiniDV cassette. The assignable dial gives control over focus, exposure, shutter speed, AE (Auto Exposure) shift and WB (White Balance) shift. The HDR-HC7’s still image capture mode takes photos up to 6.1 megapixels, and up to 4.6 megapixels while recording video. HDR-HC7 Highlights 3.2-megapixel ClearVid CMOS sensor The 1/2.9-inch ClearVid CMOS sensor provides stunning detail and clarity with exceptional video (1080 lines of resolution in HD mode or 530 lines of horizontal resolution in SD mode) and 6.1 MP still image performance. Unlike traditional CCD imagers, CMOS sensors require less power and provide better battery performance. Switchable HD/DV format recording The HDR-HC7 is capable of recording and playing back both High Definition (HD) and Standard Definition (SD) video recorded on a standard MiniDV cassette. Real-Time HD Codec engine Sony developed a Real Time MPEG Encode/Decode system with reduced energy consumption and compact size to fit inside a personal camcorder. This engine provides efficient MPEG2 compression, and recording and playback of clear HD images at the same bit rate of the DV format, so that high-definition video can be recorded on the same MiniDV cassettes as are used for SD recording. x.v. Color x.v.Color can capture or display nearly twice as many (1.8x) viewable colors than currently possible. This provides a more accurate and vivid color range, for a more natural, lifelike overall experience. 10x optical/20x digital zoom The optical zoom helps to bring the action close up from far away. In addition, the Digital Zoom Interpolation means that extreme digital zooming is clearer, with less distortion than previous types of digital zoom. Professional-quality Carl Zeiss Vario- Sonnar T* lens Carl Zeiss lenses have an advanced optical multi-layer coating that offers less glare and flare with increased contrast. This results in vivid image brilliance, true-to-life color saturation and perfectg renditions of subtle tones. The additional T* coating on the lens further reduces unwanted glare and flare. 2.7-inch widescren hybrid touch-panel Clear Photo LCD Plus display The 2.7-inch 16:9 LCD screen provides excellent viewing clarity with improved resolution. The 211K pixel LCD screen rotates up to 270 degrees for multiple viewing angles providing sharp, detailed images for monitoring or playback, and the widescreen format makes shooting in 16:9 mode and composing shots even easier. Smooth slow record By increasing the record rate from 60 fields per second (fps) to 240 fps for 3 seconds allowing you to capture 3 seconds of fast motion and play the video back in 12 seconds. This is great for analyzing a golf swing or a viewing a bird in flight. In addition, record an audio track to narrate what is being seen in the video. Memory Stick Duo media slot Capture still images up to 2848 x 2136 resolution, directly onto Memory Stick Duo Media for easy trasfer to PCs for emailing, printing or sharing with other compatible Memory Stick media compatible devices. Dual record While recording video in high definition, you have the ability to capture a 4.6-megapixel still image directly to Memory Stick Duo media. Super SteadyShot image stabilization system Picture stabilization system that uses motion sensors to detect and compensate for camera "shake" without compromising picture quality like some other digital stabilization systems. Cinematic mode Perfect for creating your own movie masterpieces, the HDR-HC7 Cinematic mode lends 24 frame film-like effect to your recordings. i.LINK interface (IEEE1394) A high-speed, bi-directional digital video/audio communication between two compatible devices equipped with an IEEE1394 interface, including camcorders, digital VCRs, and PCs. Tele Macro function Useful for shooting close up shots, but without having the camcorder casting a shadow on the subject. Images shot in the Tele Macro mode will have the subject properly focused with the background unfocused so that the subject stands out. Active interface shoe Provides a location directly on the camcorder on which to add optional accessories while providing power and two-way communication to those accessories. Additional Features Built-in intelligent flash Super NightShot infrared system Scene Selection modes Picture effects Fader effects InfoLithium battery with AccuPower Meter system Stamina battery power management System On Screen Zoom and Record Buttons Easy Handycam One Touch Wide Angle Shooting Manual Focus Multi-Language Menu

The best customer reviews 86 of 90 people found this review helpful. Excellent for amateur like me, as an improved version of the HC90 by Thomas Gull This just arrived Thursday so these comments come with minimal time on the camera so far. I am also quite the amateur user of camcorders so you will not be able to comment on quality of manual controls, etc. I agree closely with the other two reviews, so I will not repeat the details. I will try to beat any other substances, and also compare the HC7 with Sony HC90, an earlier model that took the 16:09 standard-definition video with 3 MP stills. I took an hour of HD video so far and have seen through an HDMI cable on a Sony 46 "XBR LCD TV (1080). I caught a few indoor scenes, outdoor scenes of the neighborhood a few, and some scenes in Harper Ferry in West Virginia - rivers, mountains, and two trains pass at close range while I was at the train station there. I can say comfortably that you do not confuse the video from this camcorder with video in standard definition camcorder - when they say high definition, they are not a joke, if your TV can display the video over the edge, and They have grown fond of the HD, I think you would be happy with this camcorder. In my case, the overwhelming reason why I was getting an upgrade to the HD camcorder videos, then it was worth the steep cost. My second requirement is to took a camera with decent stills, so I have to wear a device. I did this in the HC90 Sony 3MP, it is up to 6 megapixels desirable, but not enough to get me to buy something that expensive in itself. My only criticism so far that the images are in West Virginia looks a little brighter and the water a little greener than I remember. I have not played with all the settings to take this with a grain of salt. These camcorders have a lot of manual settings, you do what I still can not be explored. One or more of them would doubtless have given me better pictures, and I'm not dissatisfied with what I think I noticed the smallest digital pictures look very good for me so far, but I have only taken about 20 and left them on TV. I usually see pictures on a PC. I do not have a telephoto lens, but so I can not report on the quality of stabilization. I used a tripod today and it was very clear to the stability of the video. I was very pleased by the way, with how well the camera did with the moving train. Very bright, I expect a lot of motion blur. LCD size and controls are listed in the first Looks. I am very happy with a 2.7 "LCD screen instead of the largest in the UX7. So this was not negative for me personally. Controls (menus) is very similar to the Sony HC90 I already have. If you have not seen have, there is a learning curve if you have HC90 camcorder or other of these menus, you will be at home with the HC7 .. One note: you can define P [ersonal]-menus to include the things you use in your own order, in addition to the camcorder's menus A thing forgotten is that each mode (video camera, play / edit) is your personal menu very configurable. So I was looking for things to add to the Play / Edit menu staff was sure to be configurable, but could not find them. That was because he had only one side of the film, not the playback side. So you have three menus you can create not only a staff. Battery: check the size of the batteries. The HC90 batteries were fine. I think three of the batteries for the HC7 fits entirely in your case. The battery in the main hall and seemed to be much larger in a dimension that I thought I would extend beyond the end of the chamber 1 / 2 "or something. The other three are embedded in the back of the camera, but they are not behind a door or something. Battery life: my impression is that the battery life is accurate statements, but the batteries drain faster than the HC90 is almost.

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX5 combines a sleek, waterproof design with high technology. The camera offers stunning low light performance with the ability to capture amazing panoramic images in Intelligent Sweep Panorama mode. Never miss the best shot with 10 frames per second, and show off all your images on a large 3" touchscreen LCD.

Amazon Sales Rank: #4111 in Camera & Photo Color: Pink Brand: Sony Model: DSC-TX5/P Dimensions: 2.00" h x 6.10" w x 5.60" l, .90 pounds Display size: 3 Certified waterproof, dustproof, shockproof and freeze-proof 3.0-inch wide touch screen for easy operation and viewing of images and movies 10.2-megapixel "Exmor R" CMOS sensor for enhanced low-light performance iSweep Panorama Mode captures stunning panoramic images; fast capture with 10fps at full 10.2MP resolution Card slot for optional Memory Stick Duo media and SD media

The DSC-TX5 combines a sleek, waterproof design with high technology. The camera offers stunning low-light performance with the ability to capture amazing panoramic images in Intelligent Sweep Panorama mode. Never miss the best shot with 10 frames per second, and show off all your images on a large 3-inch wide touchscreen LCD. Sony DSC-TX5 Cyber-shot Highlights 10.2-megapixel back-illuminated "Exmor R" CMOS image sensor The DSC-TX5 features a 10.2-megapixel "Exmor R" CMOS image sensor that brings out the full resolving power of the camera's Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar lens to deliver extremely fast speed, high resolution, and stunning low-light sensitivity with improved image clarity and drastically reduced grain. In addition, the combined "Exmor R" CMOS sensor and BIONZ image processor delivers extremely fast 10fps, Anti Motion Blur, Hand-held Twilight and 720p movie modes. Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar lens with 25mm equivalent wide 4x optical zoom The high-performance Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar 4x optical zoom lens brings distant subjects closer for video recording as well as for outdoor, sports, and travel photos, and Close Focus shoots close-ups up to just under ½" from the subject. A wide angle of 25mm equivalent wide-angle lens allows you to take wider shots of the scene or group in crowded spaces. 3-inch wide Clear Photo LCD Plus touch screen A large 3-inch Wide Clear Photo LCD Plus touch-screen display (230K pixels) allows you to scroll through images by simply touching the display. Easy Touch Screen Interaction The DSC-TX5 offers intuitive functions to the multi-purpose touch screen, such as the ability to select the focus point with a simple touch, scroll through images by sliding your finger across the screen and one-touch access to the MENU. The display also features improved readability with list view and index view. Anti-Motion Blur Mode Capture cleaner and sharper images in low light for non landscape shots. When set in Anti-motion Blur Mode, the DSC-TX5 captures six images in a fraction of a second with higher shutter speed and combines the data from all six to create a single image of extraordinary detail and dramatically reduce subject blur, beyond the capability of traditional cameras. Hand-held Twilight Capture cleaner and sharper night shots without using a tripod. When set to Hand-held Twilight Mode, the DSC-TX5 captures six images in a fraction of a second with one press of the shutter, and combines the data from all six to create a single image of extraordinary detail and low noise. With these modes, you can capture images in low light, without flash, beyond the capability of traditional cameras. Intelligent Sweep Panorama Mode Capture expansive landscapes with Intelligent Sweep Panorama Mode. Press shutter and sweep and the camera does the rest, continuously, shooting images and in one second stitching them together. This model even detects faces and moving subjects to stitch intelligently different widths to help avoid subject distortion. Available in wide and ultra-wide options, the camera can take panoramic shots of up to 258 degrees. Now capturing wide landscapes is as easy as press and sweep. Intelligent Sweep Panorama Mode makes it easy to capture wide landscapes. Backlight Correction HDR Shooting high-contrast scenes can often lead to washed out backgrounds and/or details lost in shadow. Backlight Correction HDR helps correct for this by taking two pictures at different exposure settings and processing the best elements of both into a single image for more natural looking shots. High speed shooting The DSC-TX5 can capture full 10.2-megapixel resolution images at up to 10 frames per second, helping to ensure that you capture the decisive moment such as catching big air on a snowboard. In addition, the DSC-TX5 employs a mechanical shutter that helps reduce distortion when continuously shooting moving subjects. 720p MP4 HD Movie Mode In 720p MP4 movie mode the camera shoots 1280 x 720 high definition movies at 30fps, the perfect format when working with a PC. Users can create high quality movie files small enough to transfer to compatible PC or Mac. Once transferred to your computer you can effortlessly upload your media to popular photo and video-sharing websites such as Photobucket and YouTube. (Compatible PC with Internet connectivity required.) Self-Portrait Timer Self-Portrait Timer helps take the guesswork out of self portraits by utilizing Face Detection technology to recognize when your face enters the frame. Once the camera detects your face, it triggers a 2-second timer, and then snaps a picture. Rugged and Stylish If you want a camera that's just as much at home in the water as on a night on the town, the TX5 is for you! Just 3/4" thin, the sleek and stylish TX5 fits the slimmest pocket or purse, yet is waterproof to a depth of 10 ft, shockproof from falls up to approximately 5ft and dustproof thanks to its airtight construction. As well, this durable camera can even withstand extreme weather conditions, as it is operable in temperatures from 14- to 104-degrees Fahrenheit. The TX5 includes Sony's "Exmor R" CMOS sensor for incredible low-light performance, intelligent Sweep Panorama, Anti Motion blur and Twilight handheld shooting modes, even a 3-inch touch screen LCD1 operable underwater! Seamlessly shifting from underwater marvels to a night on the town, the TX5 always helps you get the best shot! Stylish Ultra-slim Design Measuring at just 3 3/4" x 2 1/4" x 3/4", the DSC-TX5 is about as slim as a deck of cards and can easily slip into a pocket or purse, so you can take it with you wherever you go. BIONZ Image Processor The BIONZ image processor delivers the high resolution and fast performance you expect from a Sony digital camera. Fast processing enables unique Sony features such as Intelligent Sweep Panorama, Hand-held Twilight, Anti Motion Blur, HDR, etc to take and combine multiple images in less than a second to create wide panoramic images. Images have reduced grain and appear less washed out. Intelligent Auto (iAUTO) mode Unlike traditional auto mode, Intelligent Auto (iAUTO) mode thinks for you, recognizing scenes, lighting conditions, and faces, and adjusts settings resulting in clearer images, faces with more natural skin tone, and less blur. By incorporating advanced features such as Intelligent Scene Recognition, Face Detection technology, and Optical SteadyShot image stabilization, iAUTO mode lets you take advantage of the latest Sony Cyber-shot technology without leaving auto mode. Whether you're shooting landscapes, capturing a beautiful flower, or taking pictures at an in-door birthday party or wedding shower, iAUTO mode will optimize your camera's settings to help ensure you come away with a great shot. Capture up to 10 frames per second at full 10.2 MP resolution. Intelligent Scene Recognition (iSCN) Mode Intelligent Scene Recognition (iSCN) Mode automatically detects nine different types of scenes and, within just 1/30th of a second, selects the appropriate camera settings: Backlight, Backlight Portrait, Twilight, Twilight Portrait, Twilight using a tripod, Portrait, Landscape, Macro, and Close Focus. iSCN has two modes: Auto and Advanced. In Auto Mode, the camera takes a single shot using the optimal settings. In Advanced Mode, the camera takes a photo with the optimal settings and, if in difficult lighting (low light or back light) immediately takes a second photo with another optimized setting so you can choose which to keep. Anti-blink Function It's frustrating to think you've captured that perfect shot, only to review it later and discover one of your subjects blinked just as you pressed the shutter. When the camera is set to Soft Snap, the Anti-blink function captures two images, recording only the photo with less squinting or blinking. If a blink is detected in other shooting modes, a warning will be displayed after you take the shot. Optical SteadyShot image stabilization Optical SteadyShot image stabilization uses a built-in gyro sensor to detect camera shake and automatically compensates to help prevent blur without sacrificing image quality. High Sensitivity Mode (ISO 3200) High ISO allows for faster shutter speed, so you can take photos indoors or in low light without the need for a flash. In addition to High Sensitivity Mode (ISO), you can select up to seven ISO settings (Auto, 125, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200) when shooting in Program Auto Mode to adjust sensitivity to your shooting conditions. Face Detection helps direct the focus to the subject you want. Face Detection technology Sony's Face Detection technology can automatically distinguish between children and adults. Face Detection technology detects up to eight individual faces and adjusts flash, focus, exposure, and white balance to help deliver crisp, properly lit images of family and friends. Motion Detection Motion Detection, along with Face Motion Detection adjusts ISO sensitivity and increases the shutter speed when movement is detected, reducing blur in moving subjects and faces. Smile Shutter technology Smile Shutter technology captures a smile the moment it happens. Simply press the Smile Shutter button and the camera does the rest. You can also select adult and child priority and indicate the degree of Smile Detection Sensitivity. Intelligent Scene Recognition can be used together with Smile Shutter mode. This means that a beautiful smile can be captured with settings optimized for the particular scene, even in difficult conditions such as twilight and backlighting. Scene modes The DSC-TX5 features 12 convenient scene modes: High Sensitivity, Twilight, Twilight Portrait, Soft Snap, Landscape, Beach, Snow, Fireworks, High Speed Shutter, Underwater, Gourmet, Pet. Intelligent AF Thanks to Intelligent AF technology, capture fleeting moments like a child's adorable expression with the ultra-quick AF which locks focus in as little as 0.3-sec. Easy Shooting Mode With Easy Shooting Mode, even beginners can take great photos. In Easy Shooting Mode, easy-to-understand basic instructions are displayed on the LCD screen and the camera switches to all automatic settings, removing several function choices and allowing you to focus on just your subject. Since this mode works together with Intelligent Scene Recognition, the camera selects the optimum setting for each scene. In addition the easy mode simplifies preview mode. Function Guide This beginner-friendly optional function helps navigate through the various functions and settings displaying the description of chosen functions or settings on the LCD screen. PHOTOMUSIC PHOTOMUSIC combines images with music (4 tracks, 5 minutes per track) to produce fun and entertaining slide shows with standard visual effects (Simple, Nostalgic, Active, and Stylish). Select from pre-loaded tracks on the camera or transfer your own from your compatible computer. Viewing modes Find your photos using the simple folder or calendar viewing modes. In-Camera Retouching Tools Retouch and enhance your photos on the go with in-camera Trimming, Red-Eye Correction, and Unsharp Masking functions Creative painting tools Decorate your photos with words and drawings using the included paint pen or your finger. Have fun using more than 30 stamps and 15 types of picture frames and save new images at up to 5-megapixel resolution. Wide zoom display To use the entire image area of your compatible HDTV screen, Wide Zoom display automatically expands standard 4:3 and 3:2 images to 16:9. PhotoTV HD Bring your photos to life and enjoy highly detailed, high definition images with PhotoTV HD-capable Sony BRAVIA HDTVs. PhotoTV HD fine tunes settings on your PhotoTV HD-enabled BRAVIA HDTV, such as sharpness, gradation, and color to display images that look more like printed photos. Lithium-ion battery Included lithium-ion battery provides added convenience with longer lasting power than alkaline batteries (capacity of 125 minutes or 250 images for shooting still images). Media card slot For convenient storage and sharing of your images, the DSC-TX5 accepts Memory Stick Duo/Memory Stick PRO Duo/Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo media or SD/SDHC media (Class 4 or above) (sold separately). SD Card Functionality Sony SD memory cards are the perfect solution for storing and sharing your digital content such as high-quality photos, videos, music, and more. Includes Sony PMB (Picture Motion Browser) Software ver. 5.02 Sony Picture Motion Browser software offers a simple, intuitive way to transfer, sort, and view your video and still images on your compatible PC. In addition, multiple output options let you burn your memories to DVD (sold separately), as well as take advantage of one click upload to a number of popular video and photo sharing sites.

Customer most helpful reviews 2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Point and Shoot big! That's why I have this camera MoonLiteStar88 Coral beautiful rose for my birthday one week ago and I really like it so far! I have not tried it underwater, so I will not be able to further analyze. I edit the review so I do. Then go to the pros and cons of this camera! Pros: - Increases the zoom while recording. - Connect Auto-focus and zoom while recording. - A group of nice features! (Snow mode, iSweep, Panorama, fashion cap, etc.) - did not take long to start pointing the camera and shoot. - Touch screen is very sensitive. - You can use SD cards. So much more! Many Sony cameras will not have this. - You can shoot in full screen (VGA) or widescreen. - No foreign colored lines when shooting into the sun or bright light during recording. - It takes great pictures during the day. Disadvantages: - A little on the expensive side. - Did you hear any background noise while recording, but can only be heard if he is very quiet I had to exchange it for another copy of the camera, because the background noise was painfully evident. - Battery does not last long, up to an hour. Definitely consider buying an extra battery if you record or take pictures for a long period of time. - No fingerprints or scratch test. I recommend getting a screen protector for the front and back. - It does take a little time to hang up when finished recording. You have to stand still until he leaves or video is pixelated at the end. - The colors of the lights a little out of the lower house. Other: - The camera records in MP4 files, easy to edit movies in Movie Maker Windows Live .. - I recommend reading the manual before using the camera on the beach or under water. In general, a great little cam! I give this camera to 4 stars and a 4.5 / 5. Sony point and shoot cameras have improved considerably over the years definitely recommend it! 1 of 1 people found this review helpful. Quite simply, everything I expected .. Well to Happy Camp I have this camera, and so far so good. One of the things I really like is that a photograph of an object in complete darkness, peach and take it still comes out clear. I also took a movie (on a reg setting) without motion adjustment and it still looked nice. The camera is much smaller than I thought, but it's a good thing. Slider works perfectly, no wobbling. Close-up look great. Panoramic setting works wonderfully. I really like the lil extras comes with, such as writing pens, stamps and pretty borders. Very easy to use. I think the fact that I can have multiple pictures at once. I do not know why ppl say you can not see the battery life meter, I can. I am very happy and I will let you know if I have anything of interest. Remember that it would be no such thing as the perfect camera, but there is something they almost perfect.camera ;-) PS I recommend buying an extra battery. 1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. I love it. N. Mao I love it. I'm too afraid to put it under water itself. But one day I will ~ I would like to use this camera when it rains or when I'm playing in the mountains of snow, but I have no chance. Opening the slider cover is a fingerprint magnet, but still not take away its beauty. I love pink and pink is the perfect light pink, not pink like the other Sony cameras ... One useful aspect of this camera is the panoramic shot! I took manyyy panoramic pictures while I was in China. Landscapes, or if you eat a big family dinner, you can simply rotate the camera 270 degrees and you can get a picture of everyone at the table, do not force people to only parts of the normal cameras. This camera also has pretty good pictures in dark screen shows darker when you take the shot, but after taking a picture and you.

The Sony HVR-HD1000U is an HDV camcorder specifically designed for videographers looking for an affordable shoulder-mounted camera. Ideal for event work and wedding videography, the camera is equipped with a ClearVid CMOS sensor, capable of recording 1080i high definition footage on a standard MiniDV tape. Additionally, the HVR-HD1000U comes fitted with a 10x Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar lens with Super SteadyShot image stabilization, ensuring operators get the perfect shot every time. These features make the HVR-HD1000U a welcome addition to the already proven line of Sony professional HDV products.

Amazon Sales Rank: #833 in Camera & Photo Brand: Sony Model: HDVHD1000U Released on: 2009-11-30 Dimensions: 12.90" h x 19.70" w x 13.10" l, 6.00 pounds Display size: 2.7 Enhanced mobility and professional aesthetic with this shoulder-mount design and black matte body HDV1080i recordings can be captured on DigitalMaster professional tape as well as consumer MiniDV Built-in down-converter creates DV material, perfect for standard DVD productions Easy viewing with this large, freely rotating 2.7-inch LCD screen Features a Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonner T* lens with 10x optical zoom

The HVR-HD1000U was created to meet the growing demand from users who are looking for mobility and professional appearance. This camcorder features a shoulder-mount design and black matte body similar to that of professional camcorders; making it perfect for weddings, corporate communications, colleges, universities, and sporting events where appearance makes a difference. Premium design characteristics and high-definition HDV1080i recording are the main features of this new one-piece shoulder camcorder, ideal for working videographers on a budget. A built-in down-converter creates DV material, perfect for standard DVD productions. Plus, a special still photo mode is ideal for producing DVD cases and making wedding photo albums. Whether you are recording weddings and corporate communications or helping students make a documentary, the HVR-HD1000U is the best choice on the market today as an entry level professional camcorder. From the Manufacturer The HVR-HD1000U was created to meet the growing demand from users who are looking for mobility and professional appearance. This camcorder features a shoulder-mount design and black matte body similar to that of professional camcorders; making it perfect for weddings, corporate communications, colleges, universities, and sporting events where appearance makes a difference. Premium design characteristics and high-definition HDV1080i recording are the main features of this new one-piece shoulder camcorder, ideal for working videographers on a budget. A built-in down-converter creates DV material, perfect for standard DVD productions. Plus, a special still photo mode is ideal for producing DVD cases and making wedding photo albums. Whether you are recording weddings and corporate communications or helping students make a documentary, the HVR-HD1000U is the best choice on the market today as an entry level professional camcorder. Sony HVR-HD1000U Highlights High-quality Imaging System 1/2.9-inch Clear Vid CMOS Sensor The next generation of Sony imaging sensor, the ClearVid CMOS Sensor used in the HVR-HD1000U camcorder, is quite unique and different from current CMOS technology. The ClearVid CMOS Sensor uses a unique pixel layout rotated 45 degrees to provide high resolution and high sensitivity. This pixel layout technology is also used in higher end professional camcorders. The ClearVid CMOS Sensor, coupled with an Enhanced Imaging Processor (EIP), generates stunning images. Moreover, thanks to the CMOS technology, bright objects do not cause vertical smear. Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonner T* lens with optical 10x zoom The HVR-HD1000U camcorder can adapt to a wide range of shooting situations and features a Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonner T* lens with 10x optical zoom, as featured on higher end professional HDV camcorders. The T* lens coating suppresses unwanted reflections and faithfully reproduces colors for professional-looking results. Super SteadyShot (Optical) Image Stabilizer The Super SteadyShot (Optical) feature of the HVR-HD1000U is an image stabilizer using an active optical lens method that functions without any deterioration in image quality. The lens itself shifts vertically and horizontally to compensate for the polarized light axis in real time. Professional Design Shoulder-mount design The HVR-HD1000U is lightweight and easy to use even for beginners. It provides a professional camcorder shoulder-mount design that allows for easy balance and stable operation. Wide Clear Photo LCD plus Monitor on Viewfinder Unit Provides Easy Viewing A large, freely rotating 2.7-inch LCD screen is located on the top of the viewfinder unit to provide easy viewing when the HVR-HD1000U camcorder is in a low-level position or on a tripod. This also makes it easy for a director or client to see what the camera operator is shooting. The LCD uses a 211,200 dots widescreen Clear Photo LCD plus device that provides proper brightness and a high level of color reproduction. Ergonomically Designed Handle The ergonomically designed handle of the HVR-HD1000U camcorder contains a convenient record button and zoom control, essential for low position shooting. There are two cold shoes on the front and rear of the handle. You can attach two accessories like the HVL-LBP Battery Video Light and HVR-DR60 Hard Disk Recording Unit. Camera Control Ring A special camera control ring is located on the lens unit of the HVR-HD1000U camcorder. Any one of the following functions can be assigned to the ring for easy adjustment: Focus (default) Zoom Brightness Shutter Video: 1/4~1/10000 sec Photo: 1/4~1/500 sec AE Shift WB Shift Full Compatibility with your Current DV System The HVR-HD1000U offers benefits for SD productions, as well as HD. It is easy to use HDV recordings for your current DV editing work. The HVR-HD1000U has a down-conversion feature that outputs converted DV signals through the i.LINK connector to your current DV non-linear editing system, while retaining an HD master on the tape for future use. Furthermore, the HVR-HD1000U offers a DV recording mode (4:3 or 16:9), which can provide a recording time of approximately 120 minutes in LP mode. HDV - the Accessible HD Recording Format HD can be recorded on DigitalMaster professional tape as well as consumer MiniDV. video and television technology, as well as viewer preferences, are moving from standard definition (SD) to high definition (HD) - just like black and white television moved to color in the past. HD has almost twice the number of scanning lines available with SD. This means you can see much sharper detail and finer image quality when your work is viewed on an HD display monitor. The HVR-HD1000U adopts the HDV format for HD recording. The HDV format allows you to shoot approximately 63 minutes of HD video on a miniDV cassette tape. There are two standards of HDV format; One is HDV720p and the other is HDV1080i,which has 1,080 scanning lines and is used by most broadcasters already using HD. Sony has adopted the HDV1080i standard for all its HDV products. HVR-DR60 Brings HDV to IT Workflows The optional external HVR-DR60 hard disk recording unit gives you a hybrid operation,where video and audio are recorded simultaneously to hard disk drive (HDD) and tape. The HDV or DV images are recorded as movie files in the HDD for quick nonlinear editing, enabling the operator to archive the source tape as soon as the shoot is finished. Other Features Super NightShot The Super NightShot function of the HVR-HD1000U camcorder uses a built-in infrared light emitter that allows you to record an object in zero lux light levels. It also enables night-time monitoring and surveillance. Long Operating Time With infoLITHIUM L Series Battery The HVR-HD1000U camcorder uses standard infoLITHIUM L series batteries, like the DSR-PD170, HVR-Z1U, and HVR-V1U. With the NP-F970, a maximum operating time of approximately 10 hours can be achieved thanks to the power management system and low power consumption of the ClearVid CMOS sensor. Smooth Slow Rec The Smooth Slow Rec function of the HVR-HD1000U camcorder enables slow-motion playback by capturing images at four times faster than the normal field rate (240 fields/s). In this mode, quad-speed images are captured for three seconds, stored in the built-in buffer memory, and then recorded to tape (in either HDV or DV format) as slow-motion pictures lasting 12 seconds. Diverse Range of Photo-creation Functions While the HVR-HD1000U doesn’t contain all the features you’d find in higher end professional camcorders, such as DVCAM recording/playback, XLR audio connectors, and TC preset menu, it does boast a diverse range of photo-creation functions. These photo-creation functions are available at the touch of a button. You can store high-quality still images on Memory Stick Duo media, and then use them to design DVD cases,website content, news, etc. Workflow Using HDV Shooting and Photo Data Creation For working videographers starting out with a limited budget, the HVR-HD1000U camcorder provides flexibility and an amazing selection of features like HDV shooting and photo data creation. Even if you are still using SD for your projects, HD is the way of the future. Down-conversion allows you to shoot in HD to create a high-quality master tape and still use your existing DV nonlinear editing system and SD display monitor for playback and viewing. Photo Mode In Photo mode of the HVR-HD1000U camcorder, you can take 6.1-megapixel, 2848 x 2136-quality, 4:3-aspect images. Dual Rec You can take 4.6-megapixel (16:9-aspect) photos while you are shooting HDV video simply by pressing the photo button. Capturing from Recorded Video In case you missed the perfect timing for your still photo while videotaping, you can capture and save still frames from recorded video by just pressing the photo button of the HVR-HD1000U camcorder during playback. HDV footage will give you a 1.2-megapixel, 1440 x 810 pixel still image of that magic moment.

Most helpful customer reviews 87 of 88 people found the following review helpful. Surprisingly good! By J. Tyler Look, this thing feels cheap. It is light and plasticky feel. It looks a lot like a really old VHS tape camcorder. It feels like a toy. BUT ... I am immersed, if it can not do this thing shoot some fine video! It's really crisp and vibrant stuff! I shoot professional MMA cage matches. I have several cameras. The low weight of this thing turned out to be, as I sometimes have to hold the camera so fully with arms stretched in a position to capture some of my over-the-top-of-the-cage recordings as a blessing. I still get a full body workout, but thank God it's not as heavy as a more expensive camera of this size. It is not the greatest in low light situations, but really, what is digital video camera that does not cost half arm? I've never seen one with a stellar performance in low light. Also, it has a tendency to go a little out of focus when the maximum zoom speed. I mean, if you zoom way in and wanted to escape as quickly as possible, you'll notice a bit of a focus problem when zooming do not see it, if you go slower. The sound of this camera capture is also quite surprising. I expected the mic that comes with it the need to replace, but not because it looks really good. However, it is my favorite camera for its results. I think I want to go get another one or maybe two. Scouts are widely used in concerts like this extreme sport. Do not expect to use high-end units in this wireless camera. No material is defined as the standard high-end cameras have to adapt wireless video. Really though, if you're shooting weddings, or sporting events, concerts and others like him, is a decent camera for a decent price. You do not kick. Note: You will want a case of this and are very difficult to find the size you need (more than 19 inches). You can find them out there, but you pay about Half of the price of the camera just for the bag, I went to Home Depot and bought the FAT MAX as a roll-around tool. I put some padding to the bottom drawer of the toolbox and it fits perfectly into the camera. Than the other two drawers for accessories, belts, etc. It fits perfect and it takes only about 60 or so dollars. I like it because it rolls around and takes a beating. Just a tip. Hope this helps. 34 of 35 people found the following review helpful. Solid, but lacks By N. HALL I do not know what the other guy said, but the camera feels solid and looks like Sony's line of high-end professional cameras. This is not the same as Panasonic puffy plastic cameras (DVC DVC-7-15) This camera was designed by Sony unit of transmission is not the consumer unit. The picture quality is great, I never knew a CMOS may look good in comparison to a configuration of three CCDs, but it is. The disadvantages are that you assign commands on the screen, making it a pain until you get used to use "manual" to quickly switch to control the ring when you get used to manage settings with ring which really starts to feel great. The other bad thing is that it has XLR beachtek so you have to have a box or something. For the money you can not beat this camera, customers love to see you go in a big machine looking Pro and not a small handycam. The support really helps you to assume it blows hard, when you can not use a tripod. The camera also has a lot of Firewire outputs, Component, HDMI, S-Video, Composite, USB, Memory Stick (for still images), and does everything to HD to SD downconverter in real time. If you ever introduce another with XLR inputs and an annular lens, which I buy in a heartbeat. This makes a cam big budget or a backup camera. 27 of 27 people found this review helpful. Camera documentation sent out by Wesley Gunder Sony HVR-HD1000 is an entry level HDV camcorder with some professinal