Sony HDR-XR150

At CES 2010 saw new entry-level HD camcorders announced by Sony: the HDR XR150. These new Handycam models will replace last year’s XR100 camcorders, offering HD video with a compact form factor and low price.

These entry-level models do not have the six-blade G lens that was entered to Sony’s mid-range and high-end models late last year. The sensor is very similar-a 1/4-inch CMOS with an impressive pixel count of 1,350,000-but features Sony’s new Exmor R back illumination technology, designed to improve low light performance.

Intelligent Auto mode Sony HDR XR150 goes a step beyond traditional auto modes by examining your shot and then automatically selecting the proper settings from eleven distinct scene modes: Portrait Mode, Smile Shutter, Backlight Control, Scenery, Night Scenery Mode, High Sensitivity Mode, Macro Mode, Baby Mode, Tripod, and Low Light Mode.

Sony Picture Motion Browser software provides a simple, intuitive way to transfer, sort, and view your video and still pictures on your compatible PC. In addition, multiple output options let you burn your memories to DVD, AVCHD, and Blu-ray Disc media (sold separately), as well as take advantage of one click upload to a number of favourite video and photo sharing sites (compatible PC and internet connection required).

A built-in 120GB hard disk drive can record and store up to 50 hours of high definition video footage (HD LP mode), or up to 30 hours of common definition footage (SD HQ mode). In addition, “HDD Smart Protection” gives you peace of mind by helping to keep any recorded video and images from being lost if the camcorder is unexpectedly dropped.

Experience stunning low-light sensitivity with improved picture clarity and drastically reduced grain with the newly developed, back-illuminated “Exmor R” CMOS sensor. Designed specifically for compact cameras and camcorders, the “Exmor R” CMOS sensor is planned to let you shoot video in lower lighting conditions with better results.

Now there’s  a simple way to transfer and store videos directly from your camcorder to an external hard disk drive (sold separately), without a computer. You can even use handy playback features of this camcorder to access the videos stored on your external drive and share your memories on a compatible HDTV or monitor.

Smile Shutter™ technology and Face Detection technology Sony HDR-XR150 takes shooting glad faces a cinch. Face Detection with Face Priority lets you assign priority to a face and then automatically optimizes focus, color, exposure and Smile Shutter technology. Smile Shutter catches a smile the moment it happens and takes still photos, even when shooting video.

Choosing the right setting can be a real task, but Intelligent Auto mode analyzes your shot and automatically selects the proper settings from 9 distinct scene modes (60 different combinations possible): Portrait, Smile Shutter, Backlight Control, Scenery, Night Scenery, High Sensitivity, Macro, Baby, Tripod and Low Light.  Don’t spend time more than you have to! We already done the research for you. Please read where to buy HDR-XR150

Sony HVR-A1E HDV Specifications:

• Image Device: 1/3-Inch CMOS Chip with 2.97 Million Pixels

• Lens: 5.1 mm to 51 mm Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T*
• 10x Optical Zoom
• 37 mm Filter Diameter
• Horizontal Resolution: 1080 Lines Horizontal Pixels 1440 Vertical Pixels
• Minimum Illumination: 7 Lux with Gain Up, 0 Lux in Night Shot Mode
• Built-in Filters: Electronic Daylight and Tungsten Switchable
• LCD Monitor: 2.7 Inch Widescreen
• Viewfinder: Color and B/W Switchable
• Scan Matching: No
• Memory Card Slot: Yes, Memory Stick Duo 15mB included with Camera
• Shutter Speed Range: 1/4 seconds to 1/10,000 seconds
• Gain Selection: 0 dB, (+)3 dB, 6 dB, 9 dB, 12 dB, 15 dB, 18 dB
• Tape Format: DVCAM Small Cassette, HDV Record and Play, DVCAM Record and Play, DV Record and Play
• Tape Speed: HDV- 18.8mm/sec., DVCAM- 28.2 mm/sec., DV SP Mode- 18.8mm/sec.
• Maximum Recording Time: HDV-60 Minutes, DVCAM-40 Minutes, DV-60 Minutes Audio Signal Format: HDV, MPEG1 Audio Layer II, DVCAM/DV, 16-bit/48kHz 2
• Channel Mode, 12-bit/32kHz 4 Channel Mode
• Audio Frequency Response: 20Hz to 20kHz
• Input and Output Connectors: HD/SD Component- 3 RCA (x 1 output through breakout cable)
• Firewire- 4-Pin (x 1 input and output)
• S-Video- 4-Pin (x 1 output through breakout cable)
• Composite Video- RCA (x 1 output through breakout cable)
• Mic Audio- XLR (x 2 input)
• Audio- RCA (x 2 output through breakout cable)
• Headphone- Stereo Mini (x 1)
• LANC Control- Mini (x 1)
• USB- Mini B (x 1)
• Power Requirements: 100 to 240 Volts AC, 50 or 60 Hz with AC Adapter
• Power Consumption: 6.6 Watts Maximum
• Operating Temperature: -4° to 140° F, -20° to 60° C
• Dimensions (WxHxD): 2.9 x 4.1 x 7.6 Inches, 71 x 103 x 191 mm
• Weight: 1.8 Lbs, 670 g

Short Review:

The Sony HVR-A1E is the entry level HDV camcorder that records high definition video as well as DVCAM and DV standard-definition video. The camera uses a single three million pixel CMOS chip to capture images. The use of a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) chip allows the camera to capture amazing high quality images while consuming less battery power and making the camera smaller overall. The Enhanced Imaging Processor (EIP), a Sony created technology, enables the camcorder to capture and process high-definition video and high resolution still images with the highest levels of contrast and detail. This model is specifically for PAL system video applications.

The HVR-A1E realizes new levels of compact design and efficiency with a single 3 megapixel CMOS imaging chip. Compared to a CCD (Charged Coupled Device), a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) works more efficiently and burns less battery power. It uses both positive and negative polarity circuits, only one at any given time.

External Reviews:

• PlanetDV.net
  
• DVUser.co.uk

Sony HVR Z1E HDV Specifications:

• Switchable recording and playback of HDV, DV and DVCAM formats, providing the professional user with the flexibility to choose the format that suits the need of their production.
• 50/60Hz (PAL/NTSC) switchable recording and playback
• 2-channel balanced audio XLR inputs, with independent adjustment of input levels for each audio channel
• Colour and B/W switchable viewfinder
• Simultaneous operation of both LCD panel and viewfinder, giving professional users the opportunity to focus shots accurately via the viewfinder while simultaneously framing images via the fold-out LCD panel

Short Review:

The HVR-Z1E Camcorder is aimed at professional videographers, documentary makers and feature film makers working to tight budgets. HDV is also an attractive option for mainstream broadcasters and corporate programme makers needing to acquire HD content in restricted or hard-to-reach locations and HDV also serves as an ideal source for contributing HD content into an HDCAM production environment. The format’s quality, versatility and low operational costs also extend its appeal to educational establishments and hire companies.

External Reviews:

• PlanetDV.net
• DVUser.co.uk

Sony HDR-UX7E Specifications:

• 3.2 Megapixel (Gross) ClearVid CMOS Sensor
• Real-Time HD Codec Engine
• x.v.Color
• DVD recording format, in both MPEG2 (SD) and AVCHD
• Optical zoom
• Carl Zeiss lenses
• 3.5-inch wide (16:9) LCD screen
• Capture up to 3 seconds in slow motion
• Capture still images up to 2304×1728 resolution
• Sony’s SteadyShot Optical Image Stabilisation system
• Tele Macro functionality
• Active shoe

Short Review:

For the enthusiast who wants the picture without the tedium of capturing tapes, editing, rendering and burning onto DVD, this HD camera is perfect. In true HD widescreen with Dolby Digital 5.1 sound, simply shoot, capturing video directly onto DVD, then pop it in your home theatre system and get the popcorn.

The HDR-UX7 is capable of recording and playing back both high definition (HD) and standard definition (SD) video recorded on a standard 3” (8cm) DVD media.

Real-Time HD Codec 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 later recorded on the same MiniDV cassettes as are used for SD recording.

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.

External Reviews:

• LetsGoDigital.org
• Play.com
• PictureCorrect.com

Sony HDR-UX5E Specifications:

• 2.1 Megapixel (Gross) ClearVid™ CMOS Sensor
• Switchable HD/SD Format Recording
• x.v.Color
• DVD Format Video Recording

Short Review:

HDR-UX5E camcorder. View every detail through a Carl Zeiss® Vario-Sonnar® T* Lens with a 2 megapixel ClearVid™ CMOS Sensor that allows you to take still images up to 4.0 megapixels. You’ll see all the clarity immediately on the 2.7″ Wide Touch Panel Clear Photo™ LCD Plus. Enjoy the convenience as you record your images and video directly to a 3″ DVD (sold separately) for fast and easy.

External Reviews:

• GoodGearGuide.com.au
• Stuff.co.nz

Sony HDR-UX1E Specifications:

• 4 megapixel still image recording
• Multiple recording modes
• DVD+R DL compatible for longer recording
• Multiple playback options
• One Touch Disc Burn for easy DVD creation
• Multiple playback options
• HDD Smart Protection System

Short Review:

The HDR-UX1E is as versatile as it is easy to use. The first choice it gives you is the vital one of whether to record in HD or SD (Standard Definition) mode. When you select HD, the AVCHD format lets you pick between four picture quality options. These range from a 5Mbps Long Play option to the new super-high quality AVCHD 12M (HQ+) setting. This HDR-UX1E trademark feature captures HD video at 12Mbps, giving you astonishing levels of detail and colour.

External Reviews:

• GoodGearGuide.com.au
• CameraTown.com
• Crave.cnet.co.uk

Sony HDR-SR7E Specifications:

• built in 60GB HDD – up to 22.5 hours recording time
• 6.1 mega pixels still image recording
• 1/2 9” clearVid CMOS sensor
• super steady shot (optical)
• x.v colour
• AVCHD / SD (MPEG2) recording
• dual rec
• CZ Vario sonnar T zoom (10 x optical, 20 x digital)
• 2.7” wide hybrid clear photo LCD plus (211 k)
• handycam station supplied
• one touch disc burn (button on HC station)
• smooth slow rec (200fps)+ audio recording
• 5.1ch surround recording w/ built in MIC
• battery type H. STAMINA 5 hrs
• built in flash
• memory stick Duo slot
• pictbridge
• super night shot
• USB 2. (Hi speed)

Short Review:

The Sony Handycam HDR-SR7E features an 60GB HDD; it records 1080i HD movie for up to 22 hours in LP mode. This is made possible by the AVCHD compression technology that allows long recording durations with HD picture quality. It has a Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T lens with 10x optical zoom. It can capture still images up to 6.1 megapixels regularly and 4.6 megapixel photos in dual record mode. It includes optical image stabilization and Dolby Digital 5.1ch surround sound.

External Reviews:

• LetsGoDigital.org
• Reviews.cnet.co.uk
• GoodGearGuide.co.au

Sony HDR-SR5E Specifications:

• 1080i High Definition recording (AVCHD Format)
• Up to 15 hour High Definition recording on 40GB internal HDD
• Carl Zeiss® Vario-Sonnar® T*
• ClearVid CMOS Sensor for optimum picture quality
• x.v.Colour mode for more vivid, lively and true colour
• Quick browsing with new intelligent search functions: Film Roll Index, Face Index, Highlight Index
• 10x optical zoom / 80x digital zoom
• 4.0 Megapixel still image recording and 2.3 Megapixel Dual Rec while recording movies
• STAMINA up to 6 hours 45 minutes (with optional battery, LCD backlight off)
• 2.7″ Wide, “Clear photo LCD plus” screen with touch panel
• Dolby Digital 5.1ch Creator for Surround sound recording with built in microphone
• Smooth Slow Rec mode for advanced slow motion footage
• Super SteadyShot
• 2nd Start / Stop REC and zoom button on LCD frame
• Easy-to-use Home menu and Guide function
• HDMI output for HD ready TV
• Hi-speed USB 2.0 (input / output)
• Battery Info
• Auto Lens Cover

Short Review:

This very compact camera is palm fitting and features a 2.7 inch wide (16:9) touch panel LCD that has on screen zoom and record buttons. For added protection, the touch panel is specially treated to prevent against dirt and unwanted fingerprints.

The compact size of harddisk camcorders and the convenience of many hours of storage space without the need for additional recording media as well as the versatility of options for dealing with the footage afterward make this an ideal camcorder for travelling and carrying with to events.

External Review:

• GoodGearGuide.com
• Reviews.cnet.co.uk

Sony HDR-HC7 Specifications:

• 3.2 Megapixel (Gross) ClearVid™ CMOS Sensor
• Switchable HD/DV Format Recording
• Real-Time HD Codec Engine
• x.v.Color
• 10X Optical/20X Digital Zoom
• Professional Quality Carl Zeiss® Vario-Sonnar® T* Lens
• 2.7” Wide (16:9) Hybrid Touch Panel Clear Photo™ LCD Plus Display2 (211K Pixels)
• Smooth Slow Record
• Memory Stick Duo™ Media Slot3
• Dual Record
• Super SteadyShot® (Optical) Image Stabilization System
• Cinematic Mode
• i.LINK® Interface4
• Tele Macro Function
• Active Interface Shoe

Short Review:

1/2.9” ClearVid CMOS Sensor provides stunning detail and clarity with exceptional video (1080 lines of resolution, HD mode or 530 lines of horizontal resolution, SD mode) and still image performance (6.1 megapixels). Unlike traditional CCD imagers, CMOS sensors require less power, providing better battery performance.

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.

Perfect for creating your own movie masterpieces, the HDR-HC7 cinematic mode lends a 24 frame film-like effect to your recordings.

The HDR-HC7 features an easily-navigable touch-screen interface and even has a beginner’s guide built into the camcorder for amateur users. For more advanced users, there are manual controls sufficient enough for the average person who likes to fiddle with the settings.

External Reviews:

• Reviews.cnet.com
• Reviews.DigitalTrends.com

Sony HDR-HC5 Specifications:

• HDV 1080i Format
• Carl Zeiss® Vario-Sonnar® T*
• ClearVid CMOS Sensor for optimum image quality
• x.v.Colour mode for more vivid lively and true colour
• HDV editing package supplied i.LINK cable/ HDV editing software
• STAMINA up to 7 hours 20 minutes (with optional battery)
• 4 Megapixel still image recording and 2.3 Megapixel Dual Rec while recording movie
• 10x optical zoom / 80x digital zoom
• Super SteadyShot
• Enhanced Imaging Processor
• 2.7″ Wide “Clear Photo LCD plus” screen with touch panel
• Wide Colour Viewfinder
• HDMI output for HD ready TV
• i.LINK input / output for HDV and DV
• USB 2.0 (Full-speed)
• HDV / DV recording switchability
• Smooth Slow Rec mode for advanced slow motion footage
• Usage Guide function on LCD
• Battery Info
• Auto Lens Cover
• Weight 530g
• Dimensions Depth (mm) 134.0 Height (mm) 82.0 Width (mm) 82.0

Short Review:

The HDR-HC5 sports a 2.1 megapixel CMOS sensor and digital image stabilization, and can record both standard-definition and high-definition 1080i video using MiniDV cassettes. In addition, JPEG stills can be saved to Sony’s Memory Stick Duo cards. Other features include a 10x Carl Zeiss Vario Sonnar T* zoom lens, a 2.7-inch touchscreen LCD, built-in flash, and an accessory shoe. Other useful features include Sony’s Super NightShot infrared mode for capturing images in very low light, PictBridge support for sending photos directly to a printer via USB, and a Dual Record mode, which simultaneously captures video and stills. All of the new Handycams also use Sony’s x.v.Color instead of the usual sRGB standard, which Sony claims will improve color fidelity and range

External Reviews:

• LetsGoDigital.com
• Reviews.cnet.com
• CircuitCity.com
• GoodGearGuide.com