Digital Camera News and Reviews

Sony HDR-XR520V

Sony has announced four new HD camcorders called HDR-XR520V, HDR-XR500V, HDR-XR200V and HDR-XR100. They have respectively 240GB, 120GB, 120GB and 80GB hard drives. The Sony digital camcorders also feature 1920×1080 high-definition video recording and up to 12-megapixel still image capture.

The Sony HDR-XR520V, HDR-XR500V, HDR-XR200V and HDR-XR100 will begin shipping in March for about $1500, $1300, $1000 and $750, respectively.

Press release:
Sony Adds Breakthrough Technologies To HD Camcorder Line

New Models Combine Exmor R CMOS sensor, Sony G Lens and BIONZ Processor For Unparalleled Imaging Quality

LAS VEGAS (CES BOOTH #14200), Jan. 7, 2009 – As a leader in the high-definition camcorder category, Sony is introducing four hard disk drive Handycam® camcorders with high-performance optics, large storage capacity and advanced technologies.

The HDR-XR520V, HDR-XR500V, HDR-XR200V and HDR-XR100 camcorder models preserve content in high resolution with 1920×1080 high-definition video recording and up to 12-megapixel still image capture.

The flagship model includes a 240GB hard drive that holds up to 101 hours of HD video (LP mode), embedded GPS, a back-illuminated Exmor R™ CMOS sensor, and improved optical image stabilization.

“Sony will continue to lead the high-definition camcorder segment with our strong new lineup,” said Kelly Davis, director of camcorder marketing at Sony Electronics. “These models represent Sony’s top of the line camcorders, delivering innovative features and advanced optics for unprecedented picture quality.”

High-Performance Optics
Offering a refined level of optical performance, the new Sony high definition camcorders combine an Exmor R CMOS sensor, the Sony G Lens and a BIONZ processor.

The HDR-XR520V and HDR-XR500V models are the first camcorders to use a back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS sensor. Because the wire circuitry is placed behind the sensor’s photo detectors, the camcorders provide stunning low light performance with approximately twice the sensitivity compared to Sony’s existing front-illuminated CMOS sensor at F2.0. This results in brilliant image clarity and reduced grain.

These two camcorders feature a Sony G lens that incorporates advanced optics and low-dispersion aspheric glass elements for accurate color production and sharp, detailed images. A six-blade iris produces circular “bokeh” defocus effects for creative shooting possibilities.

A high-speed BIONZ imaging processor handles massive amounts of high resolution data from the Exmor R CMOS sensor for quick response and extraordinary picture quality.

The models also have an improved Optical Steady Shot™ feature with Active Mode, which allows a moveable lens element to shift with a greater range of motion during camera shake. This results in dramatically smoother video footage and photos.

Large Storage Capacity
The HDR-XR520V, HDR-XR500V, HDR-XR200V and HDR-XR100 camcorders offer extremely long recording times with hard drive capacity of 240GB, 120GB, 120GB and 80GB, respectively. In addition to a built-in hard drive, the models can also record content to optional Memory Stick PRO Duo™ media.

Sony’s new 16GB PRO-HG Duo HX Memory Stick® media (model MS-HX16G) offers extremely quick data transfer rates with the ability to transfer approximately one hour of high definition video from the camcorder to the PC in about six minutes.

Sophisticated Technologies
Making it easy to retrace your steps by shooting location, the HDR-XR520V, HDR-XR500V and HDR-XR200V camcorders feature a built-in GPS antenna and NAVTEQ® digital maps for video and photo geo-tagging. Geo-tagged content is marked by a push pin at each shot location and can be played back on the camcorder map index display or enjoyed on the PC using the included Picture Motion Browser software. The feature also highlights your current map location and automatically adjusts the camcorder clock to the proper time zone.

All new models feature Smile Shutter™ technology, which automatically detects faces and takes photos as your subject smiles, even while shooting HD video. In addition to Face Detection technology, the camcorders are packed with powerful features including Dolby® Digital 5.1-channel surround sound recording, a built-in zoom microphone and up to 3.2-inch wide (measured diagonally) touch-panel LCD screens.

Improved Post-Shooting Experience
Developed for viewing special moments on your television with family and friends, the Highlight Playback mode on the HDR-XR520V, HDR-XR500V and HDR-XR200V models personalize your video footage by generating a video slideshow with theme transitions and background music. You can also add your own MP3 music files using the included software.

All models ship with the latest version of Picture Motion Browser software to easily view, organize, and upload images to many major video and photo sharing Web sites.

Standard Definition
Complementing these high-definition camcorders, Sony is updating its standard-definition, hard-drive line with three new models. They have up to 60X optical zoom, hybrid movie recording to Memory Stick PRO Duo™ media (sold separately), large built-in hard drives and 2.7-inch (measured diagonally) wide LCD touch panel screens. Additionally, the DCR-SR87 includes a 1-megapixel CCD imager and the DCR-SR47 model comes in three color variations (red, blue and silver).

The 80GB DCR-SR87, 80GB DCR-SR67 and 60GB DCR-SR47 camcorders work with Sony’s new DVDirect® Express DVD writer, model VRD-P1, offering a quick and easy way to transfer home videos directly to DVD without a computer. By attaching the DVDirect Express via its built-in USB cable to compatible Handycam camcorders, it can transfer video to DVD for playback on most home DVD players. The VRD-P1 unit will be available this month for about $150.

Availability
The HDR-XR520V, HDR-XR500V, HDR-XR200V and HDR-XR100 will begin shipping in March for about $1500, $1300, $1000 and $750, respectively. The DCR-SR87, DCR-SR67 and DCR-SR47 will begin shipping in February for about $500, $450 and $400, respectively. The MS-HX16G 16GB Memory Stick® media card will ship in March for around $140. Camcorders and accessories will be available at Sony Style® retail stores, online through www.sonystyle.com, at authorized dealers and military base exchanges nationwide.

Kodak Zx1 HD camcorder

Kodak has announced a new HD camcorder, the Zx1, that is very rugged and got a weather resistant design.

Some key features for the Kodak Zx1 HD camcorder:
-720p HD video capture at 60fps or 30fps
-2.0-inch LCD screen
-Weather resistant design
-Easy to upload to Youtube
-Available in five colors: black, red, pink, blue and yellow

The Kodak Zx1 HD camcorder will be out in April 2009 and sell for about US$149.95.

Press release:
Rugged new KODAK Digital Video Camera enables on-the-go HD video capture

Never miss a moment with pocketable and weather-resistant video companion

Rochester, NY, January 8, 2009 – Eastman Kodak Company (NYSE:EK) today introduced the new KODAK’s Digital Video Camera, a compact and rugged digital device that enables “go-anywhere” High Definition recording.

The Zx1 allows users to shoot and share high-quality video quickly and simply, with 720p HD video capture – at 60 or 30 fps – a vibrant 2.0-inch LCD screen, and built-in software for easy editing and sharing of content to YouTube™ and other social media and networking websites.

“More than ever, people want to capture moments on the go and quickly and easily share them,” says John Blake, General Manager Digital Capture and Devices, Vice President, Eastman Kodak Company. “The Zx1 is a fun and interactive way to engage in this kind of storytelling – it’s both small and smart, and enables people to record virtually anything, virtually anywhere, and then quickly upload content to video-sharing and social networking websites.”

The KODAK Zx1 Digital Video Camera is designed to meet these needs at the touch of a button — no lens cap, dials to turn or settings to adjust. The new camera’s advanced feature set includes:
• Pocketable 720p HD video capture at 60 fps
• Weather-resistant design that stands up to splashes, dirt and more – IP43 certified;
• High-quality video capture in bright light or low light – from the beach, to the nightclub;
• Easy editing, personalization, and uploading to YouTube or other Internet sites with built-in video software, ArcSoft Media Impressions for Kodak;
• Expandable SD/SDHC Card slot for memory cards up to 32 GB, that can record up to 10 hours of HD video*;
• Easy HDTV playback with included HDMI cable;
• Sensitive, low distortion microphone that provides crisp, clear audio;
• Pre-charged AA Ni-MH rechargeable batteries and battery charger included, saving money and avoiding waste from used batteries;
• Vibrant 2.0″ LCD;
• Available in five colors: black, red, pink, blue and yellow**;
• Remote control compatible (remote control sold separately).

Uploading to YouTube
YouTube is the world’s most popular online video community, and the Kodak and YouTube relationship enables consumers to quickly and easily upload videos to YouTube from the simple and powerful video editing software that comes with the camera.

Accessories
A range of accessories are available for the KODAK Zx1 Digital Video Camera, including:
• KODAK SDHC Memory Cards, available in 4, 8 and 16GB capacities customized for optimal video capture;
• KODAK Adventure Mount for helmet, handlebars and more;
• KODAK Flexi-tripods;
• KODAK cases, camera bags and neck straps;
• Remote control;
• Battery options include AA, CRV3, and KODAK Li-Ion Rechargeable Digital Camera Battery KLIC-8000.

Pricing and Availability
The KODAK Zx1 Digital Video Camera will be available from April 2009, and retail for US$149.95 MSRP.

*Record approximately 20 minutes per 1GB at HD 30fps.
** Color availability may vary.

DXG-569V HD camcorder

DXG today announced a new low priced HD camcorder, the DXG-569V HD, that will sell for only $169.
Some key features for the DXG-569V HD:
-5 megapixels
-1280 x 720 HD video at 30 fps
-3″ foldout LCD screen
-Digital voice recorder
-2x digital zoom
-Available in both glossy black and silver versions

Press release:
DXG ANNOUNCES LOW COST STYLISH HD CAMCORDER

DXG-569V HD 5 Megapixel Ultra-Slim Digital Camcorder
Features Sexy Vertical Design in Black & Silver
Available Now at Radio Shack & Other Stores

City of Industry, CA, April 28, 2008 – DXG USA (www.dxgusa.com), one of the fastest growing digital camera manufacturers, announced today the new low priced DXG-569V HD High-Definition camcorder with a sexy vertical design for an ultra-slim form factor that consumers prefer. Available immediately at Radio Shack and other stores for $169 in glossy black and silver, the DXG-569V HD camcorder records real HD video up to 1280 x 720 at 30 fps for videos that are crystal-clear, crisp and colorful.

The DXG-569V HD is a high-definition video camcorder that is well within your reach, letting you capture and record it all — in high-definition video. Sporting a 5 Megapixel CMOS sensor for still image resolution up to 8 Megapixels; a light-weight slim design; large rotational 3” TFT screen; and other advanced camera features, the DXG-569V is the perfect size to bring everywhere to capture real life — from birthdays to baseball games, school performances, vacations and picnics.

In addition, the DXG-569V HD also features a digital voice recorder, so you can record and make notes anywhere you go. And the camcorder also can be used as a mass storage device by connecting it to a PC to easily copy and back-up documents, music files, pictures, and videos from a computer to the camcorder’s SD Card.

View High-Quality Videos on Your HDTV

Home videos can be shared with friends and family by connecting the DXG-569V HD to a TV. Since the camcorder lets you view videos in 4:3 or 16:9 (panoramic) aspect ratios, it’s perfect for your plasma or HDTV. You can also connect the DXG-569V HD to your PC and upload videos online to video sites, like YouTube and others, to share your videos with friends, family — and the world.

The DXG-569V HD comes complete with the ArcSoft Total Media Extreme software that lets you create, edit and watch videos. The software (normally a $99 retail value) features two unique applications:

· TotalMedia Theatre: a high-quality video playback application that enhances your movie-watching experience with cool features and options right from your PC.

· TotalMedia Studio: a fun and easy-to-use program that lets you make amazing and customized movies. You just need to follow a few simple steps, and in no time, you’ll be able to burn and share your homemade videos.

DXG-569V HD Features:

* Digital Camcorder
o Records full-motion video in High-Definition
+ HD Resolution: 1280 x 720 at 30fps
o Records video in H.264, MOV file format
o 2X Digital Zoom
o 3-inch TFT Screen
o Displays video on TV with A/V Out port

# Digital Still Camera

* 5 Megapixel CMOS sensor
* Captures still images in JPEG format up to 8MP image resolution
* Built-in LED Flash
* Self-timer
* White-Balance Adjustment

* Digital Voice Recorder
o Records voice notations and reminders

* Mass Storage Device
o Comes with 32MB onboard memory
o SD Card slot, supports High-Capacity SD Cards
o Connects to your PC to store and transfer data files
o USB2.0 interface for fast transfer of files

The DXG-569V HD is available immediately in two colors: silver and black, with a retail price of $169.99 from RadioShack and other leading retailers. For more information, see www.dxgusa.com .

About DXG USA

DXG USA “The Digital Camera Company” is one of the fastest growing digital camera manufacturers in the United States, selling attractively-designed digital cameras for the youth and mainstream markets. Compact, fashionable and affordably priced, DXG digital cameras are setting trends for quality and utility. DXG USA is a fully-owned subsidiary of DXG Technology Corporation, one of the world’s leading manufacturers and designers (OEM/ODM) of digital cameras and camcorders. With over 20 years of experience manufacturing digital technology products under other brand names, DXG now designs and manufactures cameras under its own name. DXG Technology has won numerous design and innovation awards and employs over 4,000 people worldwide.
For more information on DXG USA, please visit www.dxgusa.com .

Sony HDR-TG1 Handycam

Sony has a announced the world’s smallest full HD camcorder called HDR-TG1 Handycam. This camcorder measures only 1.3- x 4.7- x 2.5-inches and weighs 10 ounces.

Some other Sony HDR-TG1 Handycam features:
-1920 x 1080 HD video
-2.7-inch touchscreen
-4 mega pixels
-Titanium body and premium hard coating
-Face detection technology

Press release:
SONY ROLLS OUT WORLD’S SMALLEST FULL HD CAMCORDER JUST IN TIME FOR YOUR SUMMER VACATION

SAN DIEGO, Apr. 2, 2008 – The new pocket-sized Sony HDR-TG1 Handycam® camcorder’s weighty high-definition capability will appeal to vacationers who prefer to “travel light.”

This diminutive camcorder weighs in at only ten ounces. It has an ultra-portable body measuring just 1.3-inches wide by 4.7-inches tall by 2.5-inches deep.

It is a full-featured camcorder that can record 1920 x 1080 HD video and 4-megapixel digital photos directly to Sony Memory Stick PRO Duo™ or PRO Duo Mark2 media cards. Its size and full recording capability makes it the world’s smallest full HD camcorder.

Another bonus for any traveler is the camcorder’s durable titanium body and premium hard coating that makes it highly resistant to scratches and quite fashionable.

It ships with a supplied 4GB PRO Duo Mark2 media card so it’s ready to go straight out of the box and you don’t have to make space in your travel bag for extra discs or tapes.

“Sony was the first to introduce a travel-sized camcorder with 8 mm technology in the 1980’s, and it revolutionized the travel and electronics industries,” said Kelly Davis, director of camcorder marketing at Sony Electronics. “This new model is a great example of our expertise in miniaturization, as well as advanced imaging technologies with features like face detection.”

Face Detection for the Best Possible Picture

This new model incorporates face detection technology for both video and still images, a technology also shared with select Sony Cyber-shot® digital cameras. It can identify up to eight faces in the camcorder’s 2.7-inch touch panel LCD screen, and automatically adjust focus, exposure, color control for natural-looking skin tones, and when photos are taken, flash control.

The model also allocates more encoding bits to a detected face during the encoding process for the best possible picture when people are the subjects.

Not Just Another Pretty Face

The camcorder features advanced video and audio technologies with simple, intuitive operation. It is equipped with a high-quality Carl Zeiss® Vario-Tessar® 10x optical zoom lens and 2-megapixel ClearVid™ CMOS sensor with Exmor™-derived technology, engineered to minimize picture noise.

The camera’s BIONZ™ processing engine also features noise reduction capabilities in addition to fast processing speeds. This engine powers the model’s dynamic range optimization feature, which automatically adjusts under- or over-exposed areas in a picture. These technologies together produce high-resolution video and photos with natural color reproduction and rich details.

Audio is recorded in Dolby® Digital 5.1-channel surround sound and features a built-in zoom microphone, delivering clear recordings of your subjects along with the video.

Designed to be the perfect travel companion, the HDR-TG1 camcorder will ship with supplied accessories in May for about $900. There is also an optional travel kit (Sony ACC-TCH5) that includes a battery, travel charger and pouch for about $100. Plus, there is a custom-fit case (Sony LCM-TGA) with brushed metal accents available as an accessory for about $50.

All can be purchased, along with other accessory options, direct at sonystyle.com, at Sony Style® retail stores (sonystyle.com/retail), at authorized dealers nationwide, and at military base exchanges. Pre-orders begin on Apr. 4 at www.sonystyle.com.