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Sony unveils world's smallest and lightest high-definition (HD) consumer camcorder
TORONTO, May 17 /CNW/ - Sony of Canada Ltd., Canada's leading supplier of
electronic and computer products for consumers and business, today introduced
the world's smallest and lightest high-definition consumer camcorder,
featuring full HD resolution based on HDV 1080i.
The ultra-compact Sony Handycam(R) HDR-HC1 camcorder fits comfortably in
a user's hand, while delivering outstanding HD picture quality and lighting
detail on both video and digital still images.
The introduction of this model comes in direct response to the growing
demand for HDTV. With more broadcasters worldwide transmitting high-definition
content, the demand for HDTV has been steadily increasing.
"As HDTV becomes more pervasive, it is a natural progression to want to
create personal content in high definition," said Samuel Yip, Product Manager,
Handycam Camcorders, Consumer Audio Visual/Information Technology Group, Sony
of Canada Ltd. "This introduction is a key step in bringing high-definition
video recording to a broad cross-section of consumers. For less than $2,500,
there is now an easy-to-use solution."
Powerful and Compact
High-definition recording requires fast image processing speeds to ensure
a clear, detailed picture, with virtually no loss of picture data. The new
Handycam HDR-HC1 model features Sony's CMOS imaging sensor technology,
designed to deliver faster image processing speeds for richer colours, more
vivid detail and significantly less glare from reflected light. Weighing only
about 1.5 pounds, the model packs in a Carl Zeiss(R) Vario-Sonnar(R) T(*)
lens, which further enhances image clarity and richness, even when shooting in
low light. The combination of the unit's CMOS imaging sensor and Sony's
Enhanced Imaging Processor technology enables it to capture moving and still
images with smoother movements and clearer pictures.
These combined technologies also play a key role in this little wonder's
exceptionally compact body design. Because Sony's CMOS sensor consumes less
power, the camcorder can be powered with a smaller battery like the model's
supplied InfoLithium(R) M battery, which delivers approximately 90 minutes of
continuous recording (depending on recording mode). Sony went even further by
designing a circuitry board layout that conforms to the size of the lens and
body.
"We've creatively merged technology and design to achieve the ultimate in
miniaturization for this product," noted Mr. Yip. "The result is not just an
elegant-looking product, but also a full-featured HD camcorder that is easy to
handle and enjoy."
High Definition Has Never Been Easier
For quick framing and easy sharing of shots, the camcorder boasts a
2.7-inch wide hybrid, touch-panel liquid crystal display (LCD) screen to
access menu options. Users can switch between 16:9 and 4:3 aspect ratios (in
DV mode) to see exactly how their content will be viewed on television. Other
convenient features include fully automatic controls, a built-in microphone
for excellent audio quality, an intelligent pop-up flash, and Super
SteadyShot(R) image stabilization. The camcorder also captures 2.8-megapixel
digital still images, which can be stored directly on Memory Stick PRO Duo(TM)
media for transfer to PCs and other devices.
The Handycam HDR-HC1 camcorder also offers a full complement of manual
controls, including a 10X optical and 120X digital zoom, zoom ring, zebra
pattern, and spot focus. White balance, shutter speed and focus can all be
adjusted manually. The Cinematic mode allows users to record video with a
film-like appearance, while the Shot Transition(TM) feature allows them to go
even further in creating interesting cinematic effects. They can also record
their own high-definition video in total darkness with Sony's Super
NightShot(R) Plus Infrared System, which adds the greatest amount of range and
detail to images in low- to no-light conditions.
Sony unveils world's smallest and lightest high-definition (HD) consumer camcorder
TORONTO, May 17 /CNW/ - Sony of Canada Ltd., Canada's leading supplier of
electronic and computer products for consumers and business, today introduced
the world's smallest and lightest high-definition consumer camcorder,
featuring full HD resolution based on HDV 1080i.
The ultra-compact Sony Handycam(R) HDR-HC1 camcorder fits comfortably in
a user's hand, while delivering outstanding HD picture quality and lighting
detail on both video and digital still images.
The introduction of this model comes in direct response to the growing
demand for HDTV. With more broadcasters worldwide transmitting high-definition
content, the demand for HDTV has been steadily increasing.
"As HDTV becomes more pervasive, it is a natural progression to want to
create personal content in high definition," said Samuel Yip, Product Manager,
Handycam Camcorders, Consumer Audio Visual/Information Technology Group, Sony
of Canada Ltd. "This introduction is a key step in bringing high-definition
video recording to a broad cross-section of consumers. For less than $2,500,
there is now an easy-to-use solution."
Powerful and Compact
High-definition recording requires fast image processing speeds to ensure
a clear, detailed picture, with virtually no loss of picture data. The new
Handycam HDR-HC1 model features Sony's CMOS imaging sensor technology,
designed to deliver faster image processing speeds for richer colours, more
vivid detail and significantly less glare from reflected light. Weighing only
about 1.5 pounds, the model packs in a Carl Zeiss(R) Vario-Sonnar(R) T(*)
lens, which further enhances image clarity and richness, even when shooting in
low light. The combination of the unit's CMOS imaging sensor and Sony's
Enhanced Imaging Processor technology enables it to capture moving and still
images with smoother movements and clearer pictures.
These combined technologies also play a key role in this little wonder's
exceptionally compact body design. Because Sony's CMOS sensor consumes less
power, the camcorder can be powered with a smaller battery like the model's
supplied InfoLithium(R) M battery, which delivers approximately 90 minutes of
continuous recording (depending on recording mode). Sony went even further by
designing a circuitry board layout that conforms to the size of the lens and
body.
"We've creatively merged technology and design to achieve the ultimate in
miniaturization for this product," noted Mr. Yip. "The result is not just an
elegant-looking product, but also a full-featured HD camcorder that is easy to
handle and enjoy."
High Definition Has Never Been Easier
For quick framing and easy sharing of shots, the camcorder boasts a
2.7-inch wide hybrid, touch-panel liquid crystal display (LCD) screen to
access menu options. Users can switch between 16:9 and 4:3 aspect ratios (in
DV mode) to see exactly how their content will be viewed on television. Other
convenient features include fully automatic controls, a built-in microphone
for excellent audio quality, an intelligent pop-up flash, and Super
SteadyShot(R) image stabilization. The camcorder also captures 2.8-megapixel
digital still images, which can be stored directly on Memory Stick PRO Duo(TM)
media for transfer to PCs and other devices.
The Handycam HDR-HC1 camcorder also offers a full complement of manual
controls, including a 10X optical and 120X digital zoom, zoom ring, zebra
pattern, and spot focus. White balance, shutter speed and focus can all be
adjusted manually. The Cinematic mode allows users to record video with a
film-like appearance, while the Shot Transition(TM) feature allows them to go
even further in creating interesting cinematic effects. They can also record
their own high-definition video in total darkness with Sony's Super
NightShot(R) Plus Infrared System, which adds the greatest amount of range and
detail to images in low- to no-light conditions.
