Sony DCRHC65 MiniDV Digital Handycam Camcorder w/10x Optical Zoom

Sony DCRHC65 MiniDV Digital Handycam Camcorder w/10x Optical Zoom From Sony Price: $599.00 Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days Ships from and sold by Wall Street Photo 10 new or used available from $169.95 Average customer review:  (3 customer reviews)

Product Description

Sony DCR-HC65 MiniDV Digital Handycam Camcorder - Sony New

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Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #5808 in Camera & Photo
• Color: Silver
• Brand: Sony
• Model: DCR-HC65
• Display size: 3.5

Features

• Sleek, compact MiniDV camcorder and digital still camera with 1-megapixel CCD
• 10x optical zoom lens (digital zoom to 120x) with Super SteadyShot image stabilizer
• 3.5-inch rotating LCD and color viewfinder
• Low-light recording settings, Memory Stick Duo slot, and intelligent accessory shoe
• NP-FM50 InfoLithium Rechargeable Battery

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Editorial Reviews

From the Manufacturer
See the big picture with the DCR-HC65 MiniDV Handycam camcorder from Sony. The DCR-HC65 features a huge 3.5 hybrid SwivelScreen LCD display, a 1.0 megapixel advanced HAD CCD imager, and a professional quality Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar lens which help you see your video bigger, brighter, and clearer than ever before. It also includes features you would expect from a camcorder twice its price, such as Super NightShot Plus zero-light video recording, digital photo mode on Memory Stick DUO media, and Super SteadyShot image stabilization.

The MiniDV Format offers more precise image detail and color accuracy than previously possible with analog camcorders. The superior quality of digital video results from:

• Higher Resolution -- up to 530 lines of horizontal resolution, on select models for sharper picture detail.
• Component Color Sampling -- preserves three times more color information than analog VHS and S-VHS video, for brighter and truer colors.
• Time Base Correction -- stabilizes the picture, eliminating video jitters.
• Error Correction -- fills in missing video data, providing seamless, professional-looking video.

Features of the DCR-HC65 include:

	Carl Zeiss lenses have an advanced optical multi-layer coating offering less glare and flare with increased contrast. This results in vivid image brilliance, true-to-life color saturation and perfect renditions of subtle tones.		Digital Still Memory Mode: Capture digital still images directly onto Memory Stick media for easy transfer to e-mail, printing, or sharing with compatible Memory Stick devices.
	With a press of the Easy Handycam button, most of the advanced functions of the camcorder are "locked out" leaving only the buttons essential for recording operational.		Super NightShot Plus Infrared System: An advanced version of Sony's NightShot Infrared system that allows users to record natural color images in low-light conditions, but without the blurring common with other lowlight recording systems.
	Battery information is momentarily displayed without having to power on the camcorder. Quickly access the battery's status by pressing the Battery Info button. The Recording Time Available is displayed in minutes on either the LCD screen or in the viewfinder.		Sony's i.LINK DV (or MICROMV) interface gives you true digital-to-digital editing, without the "generation loss" of analog editing. And the i.LINK interface is compatible with a range of Sony digital VCRs, Sony edit controllers, and Sony PCs with editing software.
	MPEG Movie EX Mode: Unlike earlier MPEG1 Movies, MPEG Movie EX will allow you to record 320 x 240 resolution MPEG movies uninterrupted up to the capacity of the Memory Stick Duo Media. These movies are perfect for emailing to friends and family.		Stamina Power Management: the combination of low power consumption and an optional InfoLithium battery give Sony Handycam models incredible operating time. To keep tabs on battery life, Sony's AccuPower meter displays the number of minutes remaining -- right in the viewfinder.

And more:

• 1.0 Megapixel (Gross) Advanced HAD CCD Imager: 1/5" Advanced HAD (Hole Accumulation Diode) CCD with 690K (effective) pixels provides excellent detail and clarity, with exceptional video performance (up to 520 lines of horizontal resolution). Realize great looking digital still images utilizing 1000K (effective) pixels. The Megapixel technology enhances your digital videos and digital still photography performance.
• 10X Optical/120X Digital Zoom: The optical zoom helps to bring the action up close from far away. In addition, the digital zoom interpolation means that extreme digital zooming is clearer, with less distortion than previous types of digital zooms.
• 3.5" Hybrid SwivelScreen LCD Display (123K Pixels): Provides excellent viewing clarity with improved resolution. The 123K pixel LCD display makes images sharp and detailed during playback or when monitoring recording. The Hybrid Reflective-Transmissive LCD Screen provides accurate viewing in sunlight or bright light, virtually eliminating the wash-out common with traditional LCD Screens.
• Digital Still Memory Mode with Memory Stick Duo Media: Capture digital still images at 1152 x 864 or 640 x 480 resolution, directly onto Memory Stick Duo media for easy transfer to PC’s for emailing, printing, or sharing with other compatible Memory Stick devices.
• Stamina Battery Power Management System 7 Hours (Using Optional NP-FP90): The Sony DCR-HC65 can continuously record for up to 5 hours or playback for up to 7 hours (with LCD screen off) on a single charge with the optional NP-FP90.
• Progressive Shutter: Mechanical shutter system that provides Progressive Scan performance while utilizing an interlace scanning system. Digital still images will be sharp and clear with excellent definition.
• Analog To Digital Conversion with Pass-Through: Convert and/or record any analog NTSC video source to digital video via the analog inputs. Analog NTSC video can also be passed through the digital Handycam camcorder directly into a PC via the i.LINK interface in real-time for easy PC editing of your analog footage.
• InfoLithium Battery with AccuPower Meter System: Charge the battery at any time because unlike NiCad (Nickel Cadmium) batteries, Sony’s rechargeable Lithium-Ion batteries are not subjected to a life shortening "memory effect." Sony’s exclusive AccuPower meter displays the battery time remaining in minutes in the viewfinder or the LCD screen.
• Super SteadyShot Image Stabilization System: An advanced version of Sony’s SteadyShot system that controls an even higher range of shake and vibration frequencies, to achieve an even higher level of smoothness without degradation of video like some other image stabilization systems.

What's in the box:
DCR-HC65 MiniDV Handycam, AC-L25 Power Adaptor/ In Camera Charger, NP-FP50 InfoLithium Rechargeable Battery, RMT-831 Wireless Remote Commander Remote Control, Shoulder Strap, USB Cable, MSG-M8A Memory Stick Duo Media, MSAC-M2 Memory Stick Duo Adapter, Lens Cap, Multi A/V Cable, LCD Cleaning Cloth, CD-ROM with USB Driver (Picture Package Software v.1.0 for Sony).

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Customer Reviews

Most helpful customer reviews
11 of 11 people found the following review helpful.
Sony Dcr-hc65
By Lisa Akbari
I got this camera for $430 at circuit city. I don't think its worth $800, but it has some great features if you can find it for a good price, since it is last year's model. I love the big touch screen. Its really easy to use. The supernight shot plus works great. This camera can see better than me in the dark. Picture quality is good and if you get an upgraded battery (only $20 on ebay) the camera can run for a long time. It doesn't have the built in lens cover, but I just keep my lens cover in a camera bag when I'm using the camera. The camera is a little bigger than some other models out there, but I think it makes it easier to hold and have control.
8 of 8 people found the following review helpful.
Really good camcorder
By Vikky
My initial impression of the HC65 are generally very favorable. I like the feel and balance of it, and the controls are laid out nicely. The LCD display at 3.5" is very nice, and the touch screen is nice as well, being reasonably intuative and requiring only a light touch which minimizes camera movement while filming. I tried some filming outdoors first, close to sunset, and had great results in the Easy mode. The focus and exposure adjust very quickly and give a good picture. The colors are vibrant, and the image is clear.

The manual focus is a nice feature as well, using a focus ring on the front of the lens, and also showing the focus distance on the LCD display. The zoom works quite well; easy to control the speed, and the button is well placed, although I wish it had just a little more than 10X. The 10X should be sufficient for most applications, and I would reccomend a telephoto lens adapter and tripod if you need extra magnification.
8 of 13 people found the following review helpful.
Not worth the $$$
By Clint Weisbrod
I bought the DCRHC65 after trying out the DCRHC30 thinking the larger CCD unit would make a difference in low-light conditions. But I wasn't able to see any difference.

The design of this camera sux. The input / output cable ports are located in difficult spots. The tethered lens cap is ridiculous. Too heavy. Consumes battery too quickly.

If you're considering this camera, compare it with the DCRHC30. The only big difference is the pixel memory and CCD size. Both do analog to digital pass-through. But the DCR-HC30 is hundreds less.
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Sony DCRTRV260 Digital8 Handycam Camcorder w/20x Optical Zoom

Sony DCRTRV260 Digital8 Handycam Camcorder w/20x Optical Zoom From Sony This item is not available for purchase from this store. 9 new or used available from $133.99 Average customer review:  (23 customer reviews)

Product Description

You'll love the portable power of this Sony Digital-8 Handycam camcorder. A hefty 20x optical zoom lens, a 2.5 SwivelScreen LCD display and NightShot Plus zero-light recording system are packed with other great features into a sleek, stylish package. Other features: SteadyShot function; easy handycam button; USB streaming; i.Link interface; stamina battery power management system; program AE (auto exposure) modes; picture effects; fader effects; built-in white LED light; photo mode; and manual focus.

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Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #11718 in Camera & Photo
• Brand: Sony
• Display size: 2.5

Features

• Digital8 Handycam camcorder and digital still camera with 460,000-pixel CCD
• 20x optical zoom lens (digital zoom to 990x) with Super SteadyShot image stabilizer
• 2.5-inch rotating LCD and black-and-white viewfinder
• Low-light recording settings, built-In white LED light, and manual focus
• NP-FM30 InfoLithium Rechargeable Battery

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Editorial Reviews

From the Manufacturer
From the Manufacturer Who says you can’t afford digital? Sony’s DCR-TRV260 Digital8 Handycam camcorder gives you digital recording at an analog price. It features a huge 20X optical zoom lens, a big 2.5" SwivelScreen LCD display and the NightShot Plus zero-light recording system, all in a stylish, ultra-compact design. It even includes USB streaming capabilities, which transforms your camcorder into a webcam. Best of all, it records digitally on inexpensive 8mm and Hi8 video tapes, making it the perfect camcorder for anyone stepping up from analog.

	Digital8 Video Recording: Digital8 recording format delivers 3X the color bandwidth of VHS with significantly less video noise providing stunning video performance. Digital8 records digital audio and video comparable to MiniDV on affordable Hi8 tapes.		With a press of theEasy Handycam button, most of the advanced functions of the camcorder are "locked out" leaving only the buttons essential for recording operational.
	Sony's i.LINK DV (or MICROMV) interface gives you true digital-to-digital editing, without the "generation loss" of analog editing. And the i.LINK interface is compatible with a range of Sony digital VCRs, Sony edit controllers, and Sony PCs with editing software.		Stay connected with family and friends by broadcasting live video with audio, via the Internet with theUSB interface. You can even playback your favorite recorded scene stored on tape. It's like having your own web camera or video conferencing system.
	With Sony's NightShot Infrared system you can capture natural looking video even when shooting in low light up to 10 feet away using the built-in infrared system.		SteadyShot Picture Stabilizationsmoothes and steadies your images without degrading picture quality. Sony does it with motion sensors --- a more accurate system than many other camcorders on the market.
	Stamina Power Managementthe combination of low power consumption and an optional InfoLithium battery give Sony Handycam models incredible operating time. To keep tabs on battery life, Sony's AccuPower meter displays the number of minutes remaining -- right in the viewfinder.		Battery information is momentarily displayed without having to power on the camcorder. Quickly access the battery's status by pressing the Battery Info button. The Recording Time Available is displayed in minutes on either the LCD screen or in the viewfinder.

And more:

• 1/6" CCD Imager, 460K Pixels Gross
  1/6" CCD imager with 290K (effective) pixels provides great detail and clarity, with exceptional analog video performance.
• 20X Optical/990X Digital Zoom
  The optical zoom helps to bring the action up close from far away. In addition, the digital zoom interpolation means that extreme digital zooming is clearer, with less distortion than previous types of digital zooms.
• 2.5" SwivelScreen LCD Display (123K Pixels)
  Provides excellent viewing clarity with improved resolution. The high-resolution 123K pixel LCD rotates up to 270-degrees for multiple viewing angles providing sharp detailed images for monitoring or playback.
• InfoLithium Battery with AccuPower Meter System
  Charge the battery at any time because unlike NiCad (Nickel Cadmium) batteries, Sony’s rechargeable Lithium-Ion batteries are not subjected to a life shortening "memory effect". Sony’s exclusive AccuPower meter displays the battery time remaining in minutes in the viewfinder or the LCD screen.
• Stamina Battery Power Management System
  Using the optional NP-QM91D InfoLithium battery, the DCR-TRV260 can continuously record up to 12 hours on one complete charge, providing extra long battery life.
• Program AE (Auto Exposure) Modes
  Program AE modes make recording easy even when filming in challenging situations. Choose from Portrait, Beach & Ski, Sports Lesson, Landscape, Spotlight, Sunset & Moon modes.
• Picture Effects
  Get creative when recording or playing back videos with Sony’s Picture Effect modes. Effects available in Camera mode: Negative Art, Sepia, Monotone, Solarize, Slim, Stretch, Pastel and Mosaic. Effects available in Playback mode: Negative Art, Sepia, Black & White and Solarize.
• End Search
  Advances the video tape to the last 5 seconds of the recorded scene. This prevents accidentally recording over previous recorded videos.
• Fader Effects
  Enhance your personal videos by adding professional looking fader effects. Choose from Black, Mosaic, White and Monotone.
• Titling
  Add professional looking titles to your videos, select from 8 preset or 2 customized titles with up to 22 characters.
• Built-In White LED Light
  Brightens your videos when shooting in low light with low power consumption.
• Photo Mode
  Using Sony's unique Adaptive Frame Interpolation for better image quality, you can store hundreds of individual still images with 7 seconds of audio on the videotape.
• Manual Focus
  Allows the user to determine the focus of their choosing by adjusting the cameras focus ring allowing more creativity and/or effects. Manual focusing also allows the user to control the cameras focus in difficult situations where either the subject or environment does not allow the cameras auto-focus to perform at an optimal level.

What's in the box:
DCR-TRV260 Digital8 Handycam, AC-L15 Power Adaptor/In Camera Charger, NP-FM30 InfoLithium Rechargeable Battery, A/V Cable, Lens Cap, USB Cable, Shoulder Strap, CD-ROM with USB Driver (Picture Package Software Ver. 1.0 for Sony).

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Customer Reviews

Most helpful customer reviews
51 of 52 people found the following review helpful.
awesome camcorder
By Chet N
well let me start off by saying i am not a family guy, i bought this camera purely for college, meaning alot of night shots, alot of abuse and other things related to college...of course being in college price was a big deal since i am always broke.

i got this camera at a very good price ($275) and so far the camera is proved it's worthyness! i've taken it everywhere outdoors, indoors, sports events, race track use, etc etc.

The night shot is very useful and it works very well and the easycam option enables me to do everything with the touch of one ot two buttons.

it is not backward compatible true, but i don't have any older tapes from an older camera. This camera is therefore perfect for a first time camcorder user who wants price, functionalty and quality all in one.

all in all it is a very good camcorder
47 of 48 people found the following review helpful.
If You Want Digital8, Get The TRV-460 Instead!
By A Customer
Someone stole my DCR-TRV240 camcorder, so I thought I'd purchase a DCR-TRV260 so that I could play my old Digital 8 tapes and continue converting my VHS tapes to digital. Big mistake! On the plus side, the TRV260 is somewhat smaller front-to-back than the TRV240. On the minus side: (1) The TRV 260 lacks the ability to make digital copies of VHS videotapes that the TRV 240 had. That is, the A/V jack is only "out," not "in/out." (2) There is no audio input jack or headphone jack, so you can't connect an external microphone or listen to the audio that you're recording. (3) There's no "Intelligent Accessory Shoe" so you can't connect an extra video light or a shotgun mike.
Since the DCRTRV250 mentioned in the February-March 2004 Amazon reviews is apparently no longer manufactured, if you're in the market for a new Digital8 camcorder, get the TRV 460 instead for $50 more. It has "Analog-to-Digital Conversion with Pass Through" (i.e., "Convert and/or record any analog NTSC video source to digital video via the analog inputs," even in real-time - which was not found on the TRV-250). In addition (and less important to me), the TRV-460 has the ability to record still pictures on a Memory Stick (instead of on the D8 tape), a remote control, and a "Touch Panel" LCD screen. The TRV460 still doesn't have #2 or #3 in the paragraph above, but at least it's closer to what I came to expect from the 240. When I receive my 460, I'm going to take all my analog and D8 videos and digitize them to a format readable by computers into the foreseeable future since VHS and D8 are both moribund. Buy the DCRTRV460 Digital8 Handycam Camcorder from Amazon.com!
32 of 35 people found the following review helpful.
NOT backward compatible
By T. Barnett
This model is NOT backward compatible with old analogue Hi8 tapes. That feature is not available until the 460. I was told at the store that it does, but I was not able to make it happen, and the people at Sony confirmed that it does NOT play old tapes.

So, if you need to be able to play them, you'll have to spend the extra $50 and buy the 460.
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Panasonic Professional AG-HMC40 AVCHD Camcorder with 10.6 MP Still and 12x Optical Zoom

Panasonic Professional AG-HMC40 AVCHD Camcorder with 10.6 MP Still and 12x Optical Zoom From Panasonic Price: Too low to display & eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping on orders over $25.Details Availability: Usually ships in 24 hours Ships from and sold by Amazon.com 20 new or used available from $1,000.00 Average customer review:  (52 customer reviews)

Product Description

Panasonic's latest introduction to its popular AVCCAM line, the AG-HMC40 handheld, combines full HD AVCHD video recording with high-resolution 10.6-megapixel still photo capture, giving you the benefits of two professional cameras in one affordable package.Compact and lightweight at 2.16-pounds, the HMC40 is a versatile HD camcorder offering high-quality AVCHD recordings, high-resolution still photo capture, an easy-to-use SD card workflow, and professional audio capabilities for a wide range of applications and markets including schools, government agencies, event videographers, web designers and more.

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Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #6724 in Camera & Photo
• Color: black
• Brand: Panasonic
• Model: AG-HMC40PJU
• Released on: 2009-09-01
• Format: NTSC
• Dimensions: 9.10" h x 9.70" w x 15.40" l, 2.16 pounds

Features

• Three newly designed 1/4.1" Progressive 3MOS Imagers for full HD resolution.
• Extremely slow, smooth zoom for the precise control needed for dramatic sequences
• Time Date Stamp enables shooting Legal Depositions or Surveillance
• The HMC40 is a versatile HD camcorder offering high-quality AVCHD recordings and high-resolution still photo capture
• The compact camera is also packed with professional video and audio features

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Editorial Reviews

From the Manufacturer
AVCCAM - the Industry's Next Generation Affordable HD

Panasonic's latest introduction to its popular AVCCAM line, the AG-HMC40 handheld, combines full HD AVCHD video recording with high-resolution 10.6-megapixel still photo capture, giving you the benefits of two professional cameras in one affordable package.

Compact and lightweight at 2.16-pounds, the HMC40 is a versatile HD camcorder offering high-quality AVCHD recordings, high-resolution still photo capture, an easy-to-use SD card workflow, and professional audio capabilities for a wide range of applications and markets including schools, government agencies, event videographers, web designers and more.

Full HD Video and 10.6-Megapixel Stills -- All in One Compact Camera

With a full resolution 3-megapixel, 1/4-inch 3MOS imager, the HMC40 produces stunning 1920x1080 video in AVCHD (MPEG-4 AVC/H.264), delivering images far superior to HDV. When used for digital still photography, the camera captures photos with 10.6-megapixel resolution directly onto the SD card as a JPEG image. The camera can also be connected directly to a PictBridge photo printer (no PC required). And unlike HDV tapes, video and photos can be accessed randomly and immediately from the SD cards and played back on a number of consumer devices.

The camcorder's advanced Leica Dicomar lens system offers 12X optical zoom, wide-angle setting (40.8mm) and an optical image stabilizer (O.I.S.) feature for precise shooting. The compact camera is also packed with professional video and audio features (HDMI out, date/time stamp, remote zoom, XLR option, etc.).


High Definition Performance, Standard Definition PriceUsing high-capacity SD memory cards, the HMC40 provides hours of beautiful high definition recordings at professional level bit rates. It records in a range of 1080 and 720 formats with all four professional AVCCAM recording modes: PH mode (average 21 Mbps/Max 24Mbps), the HA mode (approx.17 Mbps), the HG mode (approx.13 Mbps), HE mode (approx. 6 Mbps). AVCCAM offers the benefit of a fast, file-based workflow using widely available and reasonably priced SD memory cards.

• HD formats: 1080/60i, 1080/30p, 1080/24p (Native); 720/60p, 720/30p, 720/24p (Native)
• Three newly designed 1/4.1” Progressive 3MOS Imagers for full HD resolution
• 12x Leica Dicomar lens (13 elements in 10 groups), 43mm filter Ø, zoom range of 40.8 - 490mm (35mm equivalent)
• Extremely slow, smooth zoom for the precise control needed for dramatic sequences
• Time date stamp enables shooting legal depositions or surveillance
• Long record time: 3 hours with included battery (7 hours continuous with 5,800mAh Battery)
• Remaining battery time readout in minutes so shooter is warned (Info Data Secure Battery)
• 3-second pre-record function captures the shot from the beginning
• Shooting assist functions: focus expand, focus bar and Face detection in Auto Mode
• Waveform monitor helps with luminance for green screen where lighting has to be evenly distributed
• Professional interface with HDMI out, Component Out (mini D terminal), Composite Video Out and RCA Audio Out 
• Additional features include: three user set buttons, time code (DF, NDF, REC RUN, FREE RUN) and USER BIT, two scene files, auto functions (Auto Focus, Auto White Balance and Auto Neutral Density)
• Connects directly to PictBridge photo printers
• 2.7-inch 16:9 Touchscreen LCD display (Just touch the thumbnail for playback)
• Manual and remote control connection for Zoom, Focus, Iris, Start/Stop functions (similar to HMC150). Focus ring can also be used for Iris and Zoom 
• Min. Illumination: 1 lux, (F1.8, Gain: +34dB, Slow Shutter: 1/2 sec.)
• Syncro Scan Shutter, 60i- 1/60-1/250, 30p- 1/30-1/250, 24p- 1/24-1/250
• Selectable Gammas & DRS Dynamic Range Stretch 
• Lightweight, yet durable, design with removable handle
• Optional AG-MYA30G Professional XLR adapter available (features audio inputs with +48V Phantom Power, Mic/Line, Attentuation, Ch 1&2 or Ch2, Level Controls and Mic Holder (8 pin push on precision connector)
• Edius Neo 2 edit software included in carton (Through March 2010)
• 3-Year limited warranty (1 year + 2 extra years upon registration)

Click to enlarge	Click to enlarge

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Customer Reviews

Most helpful customer reviews
102 of 103 people found the following review helpful.
Best camera for the price!!
By Charlie Yellow
It was a long wait but finally got it last week and then took it for a trip right away, its performance it's outstanding, I got this camera for a TV show we are producing, after seeing a few options we decided to get this one because of several reasons:

- Size, the camera is very compact, for a camera that provides broadcast quality image the size is amazingly small.
- Construction, this camera has most of its body made out with metal panels, that makes it very solid and also makes it reliable, also the set up of the buttons are easy to access.
- Price, there are other models in the market that could deliver a similar quality or probably a little better but the cost is at least $1k more, if you think like I do "creativity is the main ingredient for a good production", spending the extra cash doesn't really make a difference as long as you are aware of the camera's capabilities and limitations, but there is always ways to improve performance in some conditions that could affect the correct functionality of your equipment.
- Tapeless technology, we bought another AVCHD camera a little less than a year ago, we use it mostly for action shots and underwater recording, the transition was effortless, the advantages and capturing time are reduced to minimal and the quality is amazing, with this model we found that its quality is even better than older models and editing is a lot quicker, also recording cost are cut to almost nothing with new SDHC cards that can be used over and over without loosing quality... Just this fact makes it a must buy!!!

After using it for this little time I have managed to work around its many controls and get exactly what I want from it, the response to low light is not the best but it's decent, you can always add a good light for little money and resolve that problem, also the sound quality is excellent, I didn't get the optional xlr adapter piece for it but I am using a 8mm wireless mic system that combined with this little fellow deliver great results!!

In short words: "the new Panasonic AG-HCM40 is not the best camera money can buy but ,to my opinion, it's the best camera money can buy for this price!!"
97 of 102 people found the following review helpful.
Balance of power has officially shifted to AVCHD
By D. Cannon
I just met this camera last week, little brother to the HMC150. The HMC40 brings several welcome upgrades to market. I'm an intermediate producer in training with lots of self study and attended a few great workshops. After two years of shooting 1920 HD on the low end I have to say this camera impressed me.

PROS:
1) MPEG-4. Shoots very good quality in a tiny light weight package. Just love it. Even has time-lapse capability which sure beats roto-ing in post for a time lapse effect.
2) You can squeeze two HMC40s in the same size carryon pelican case as the 150.
3) Start editing your shots on Mac in only 2-3 minutes without waiting for rendering. No transcoding required, no $600 P2 cards either. But you should use something faster than just class 6 SDHC media if you want to bump up the quality a little, otherwise you might get some artifacts (image problems) with fast motion and striped clothing. Same problem as any media recording slower than the camera.
4) I'm cool with renting HMC150 and redrock/letus for higher end projects if necessary. This camera is fine for making DVD projects or streaming HD.
5) Great looking shots with 4:2:0 sampling.
6) We produce our own stuff, make a profit and clients keep coming back. With a $1995 retail price tag I can finally afford to own two very nice HD cameras.

CONS:
A) Manual button lovers will need to learn the softkey menus. I love the softkeys with all the same features. No different than using an iphone.
B) Two choices for sound: Seperate sound (best) or get the panasonic/beachtek adapter for on camera. I like using seperate sound on a tascam or fostex digital recorder with four seperate channels (mic 1, mic 2, wild background). This gives you plenty of room to remix in post or replace sounds. Great sound is still 50% of the production.
C) It's not the same glass lens set as 150/170 so you may need different accessories.
D) No timecode jam sync between two cameras. This camera does have its own timecoding (HH:MM:SS:FF). Oh well, I've been living without timecode sync since I started. It just adds a little to the time in post for manually lining up shots and sound tracks. It's no problem to keep using a clapper board anyway. Clappers do give a kinda nostalgic flair for the crew and spectators.

I hope this helps. Upgrade cameras every couple of years while the resale value is still a good plan. After shooting a short this weekend I think this is going to be a good two year relationship. I wish you the best.

Semper fidelis,
David Cannon
66 of 68 people found the following review helpful.
Perfect!!!
By H. Dayeh
This camera deserves "6 Stars" on image quality. I am a Realist when it comes to reviewing a product. First: we must consider the items price, $1995.00. In the "Professional Video Camera World", That is tantamount to saying a steal!!! I will not go into features and functions, the description of this Camera is given in detail on the product description portion of this page.

Second: Size and weight, Until very recently, a Pro Video Camera came in two sizes, large and super large. The additional problem here is that the general public became used to seeing these monstrosities at events, and broadcasts. Many Video Camera Professionals still look for these monstrosities simply to appease their clients visual expectations. This is the wrong approach, we should stop breaking our backs with our equipment, and instead educate the public of the technological advances that have benefited this industry. The video quality produced by this camera will please the most discriminating client.

Third: You have all this quality being recorded on SDHC cards (my advise is Class 10 30mbs or better). Recording on SDHC cards will be a liberating experience for people who used tape in the past. The Quality is much better. You cannot record over scenes by accident. It can be recorded on again and again, without loss of quality. It is not affected by altitude like hard drive consumer models. If you are thinking of getting this camera, Just get it.....think later!!!
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Sony DCR-DVD108 DVD Handycam Camcorder with 40x Optical Zoom

Sony DCR-DVD108 DVD Handycam Camcorder with 40x Optical Zoom From Sony Price: $449.99 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping on orders over $25. Details Availability: Usually ships in 24 hours Fulfilled by Amazon and Sold by Iditarod Electronics 53 new or used available from $49.93 Average customer review:  (145 customer reviews)

Product Description

CL) V4) Sony DCR-DVD108 DVD Cam

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Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #6408 in Camera & Photo
• Color: BLUE
• Brand: Sony
• Model: DCR-DVD108
• Fabric type: N/A
• Number of items: 1
• Dimensions: 2.25" h x 5.25" w x 3.63" l, 1.00 pounds
• Display size: 2.5

Features

• 1/6-inch Advanced HAD CCD imager
• Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar lens; 40x optical/2000x digital zoom
• 2.5-inch touch-panel SwivelScreen LCD
• Super SteadyShot Image Stabilization
• DVD-R/-RW/+RW and +R DL (Dual Layer) compatible

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Customer Reviews

Most helpful customer reviews
434 of 438 people found the following review helpful.
Awesome!
By Jen
I am in no way a computer geek, I had no idea what optical zoom and finalizing disc's meant. But I am a mom that wanted quality home videos of my girls and wanted to spend less than $450. So here is my opinion. I returned my Samsung 164 for this camera. It was the same price but this has the Super Niteshot. The camera is very light and easy to control with one hand. The lens is made of glass versus the Samsung which is made of plastic. The zoom is amazing on this camera, I stood across my kitchen was able to zoom in on the small print on my calendar, AMAZING! I am so glad I took the Samsung 164 back - the indoor quality of that camera was horrible. This is excellent even in low light situations. Very pleased. I was also able to record on the DVD -R's which do not require formatting - just put the disc in and record. Oh and finalizing is just when you are done recording you go the menu on the camcorder press finalize and it does in about 1 minute it says it is complete and your done. Not as complicated as I thought it would be.
240 of 246 people found the following review helpful.
Awesome Camcorder
By J. G. Hansen
This unit records video straight to mini-DVD disks. You can plug the unit into a TV and play back, you can play back on the LCD, you can finalize the disk and put it into a standard DVD player, or a computer DVD drive. The unit comes with software to install on your PC that you can then use to edit the video clips, then re-burn to a new DVD if you have a DVD burner on your PC. The Zoom function on this unit it so powerful it's absurd. It has a standard 40X optical zoom that is more than enough. On top of that it has a digital zoom that you can program for 80X or a totally insane 2000X. I can zoom in on a single letter of a word, in a small print book, from 50ft away, and then the letter disappears and turns to pixels.

It has a "widescreen" setting in the video options, and the manual does not say that this model records in widescreen, but it does! It also has a really cool nightshot feature that uses Infrared Radiation so you can film in total darkness. The sound quality of this unit is what most impressed me. Very clear, and it has a dolby 5.1 surround converter. It weighs less than 1 pound, and the battery lasts for 90 recording minutes on a full charge.
142 of 143 people found the following review helpful.
New Customer and Happy With Purchase
By J. Ratliff
I have had quite a few camcorders over the years (none of them Sony), and when I was looking for a new one, I did my usual 3-4 weeks of researching, etc. I chose the Sony DVD handycam because it was easy to use, the menu was pretty straightfoward, it had a 40x optical zoom (compared to 32x) and it was DVD. I was skeptical about the dvd part because I had heard about the minimal recording time, etc but I didn't understand the different disk formats I guess. Anyway, I am very pleased with this camcorder, and being able to shoot in a 16:9 format is also a nice feature I didn't even think about at first. So, although I am new to Sony camcorders, I am really enjoying this one. My only advice would be to go ahead and buy the memory stick and the disk pack when you buy the camera because you will want them!
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Sony DCR-HC46 MiniDV 1MP Digital Handycam Camcorder with 12x Optical Zoom (Includes Handycam Station)

Sony DCR-HC46 MiniDV 1MP Digital Handycam Camcorder with 12x Optical Zoom (Includes Handycam Station) From Sony This item is not available for purchase from this store. 9 new or used available from $104.00 Average customer review:  (24 customer reviews)

Product Description

Box Contents: DCR-HC46 Camcorder, AC-L25 Power Adapter/In-Camera Charger, NP-FP50 InfoLithium(R) Rechargeable Battery, RMT-831 Remote Control, Stereo A/V Cable, USB Cable, Lens Cap, CD-ROM with USB Driver
The Sony DCR-HC46 MiniDV HandyCam Camcorder is a compact, stylish and feature-packed way to record your precious moments. Its 1 MegaPixel CCD provides the stunning detail and clarity you need for your photos. The 12x optical and 800x digital zooms bring the action close up from far away, and you can preview it easily on the 2.7" LCD screen. Progressive Shutter System gives you progressive scan performance, with all the sharpness and clarity you need for your photos. One touch wide-angle shooting switches easily between 16:9 and 4:3 aspect ratios by pushing a button. Advanced tele Macro functions keep your subject properly focused so that the subject always stands out. With Super NightShot(R) and Super SteadyShot, you'll have shake-free video that looks great, even in minimal lighting. Super SteadyShot(R) picture stabilization Super NightShot(R) Plus Infrared One-Touch wide-angle shooting Tele Macro function Manual Focus On-screen zoom & record controls Touch Panel Exposure Aperture - f1.8 - f2.5 Focal Distance - 3.0 - 3.6mm; 350mm (Telemacro) Filter Diameter - 25mm White Balance modes - Auto, Indoor, One-Push, Outdoor Built-in microphone Handycam Station cradle Digital still memory mode USB and i.LINK(R) ports S-Video output (optional) Accepts Memory Stick(R) PRO up to 2GB; does not support high-speed transfer Recording Media - MiniDV Dimensions - 2-5/8 x 3-1/8 x 4-1/2 (65 x 79 x 113 mm) Weight - 15 oz. (445 g) with tape & battery

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Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #18998 in Camera & Photo
• Brand: Sony
• Model: DCR-HC46
• Display size: 2.7

Features

• 1/5.5-inch CCD imager; 1-megapixel still-image resolution allows for photo-quality prints to 6 x 8 inches
• MiniDV recording format offers up to 520 lines of horizontal resolution
• 12x optical zoom with Super SteadyShot picture-stabilization system
• 2.7-inch high-resolution touch-panel SwivelScreen LCD display rotates up to 270 degrees for multiple viewing angles
• Super NightShot Plus Infrared System captures natural-looking video in low light

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Editorial Reviews

From the Manufacturer
The DCR-HC46 from Sony gives you a full-featured, compact MiniDV camcorder at an affordable price. Highlights include the Advanced HAD CCD imager, which captures stunning detail and clarity, and 12x optical zoom with Super SteadyShot picture stabilization, which focuses on distant subjects, providing clear close-up images with less distortion. The Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar lens offers less glare and increased contrast for vivid, more life-like color and tones. A 1-megapixel sensor allows you to take still images that can be printed at photo quality up to 6 x 8 inches. Make your personal videos complete with additional customization features such as Picture and Fader effects for creative and professional looking enhancements. Picture Package software helps you easily organize and edit still images and video.

1.0 Megapixel (Gross) Advanced HAD CCD Imager
1/5.5-inch Advanced HAD (Hole Accumulation Diode) CCD with 690K (effective) pixels provides stunning detail and clarity with exceptional video (up to 520 lines of horizontal resolution) and still image performance. The Megapixel technology enhances your digital videos and digital still photography performance.MiniDV Recording
Offers up to 520 lines of horizontal resolution, 3x the color bandwidth and a significantly higher signal/noise ratio, to provide spectacular video performance.
12x Optical/800x 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 zooms.

Professional Quality Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar 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 perfect renditions of subtle tones.2.7-Inch Wide (16:9) Touch Panel SwivelScreen LCD Display (123K Pixels)
Provides excellent viewing clarity for both 16:9 and 4:3 apsect with improved resolution. The high resolution 123K pixel LCD screen rotates up to 270 degrees for multiple viewing angles providing sharp, detailed images for monitoring or playback.
Progressive Shutter System
A mechanical shutter system that provides progressive scan performance while utilizing an interlaced scanning system. Digital still images will be sharp and clear with excellent definition.
Super SteadyShot Picture 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.
Handycam Station
The supplied Handycam Station cradle provides quick and easy connections to a TV for viewing or to a PC for editing and sharing video. Just placing the camcorder on the Handycam Station instantly makes the connections. No need to search for cables or wires when charging or playing back.
One Touch Wide Angle Shooting
Easily switch between 4:3 and 16:9 aspect ratios for shooting with just the touch of a button.

InfoLithium Battery with AccuPower Meter System
Charge the battery at anytime because unlike NiCad (Nickel Cadmium) batteries, Sony's rechargeable Lithium Ion batteries are not subject to a life shortening "memory effect." Sony's exclusive AccuPower meter displays the battery time remaining in minutes, in either the viewfinder or on the LCD screen.i.LINK DV Interface
A digital high-speed bi-directional interface which provides audio-video communication between two compatible devices. This connection allows for pure digital transfer between devices equipped with an IEEE1394 interface, such as camcorders, digital VTRs, capture cards, and PCs.
Digital Still Memory Mode with Memory Stick Duo Media
Capture still images up to 1152 x 864 resolution, directly onto Memory Stick Duo Media for easy transfer to PCs for e-mailing, printing or sharing with other compatible Memory Stick devices.
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 unfocussed so that the subject stands out.

Manual Focus
Allows the user to manually adjust the focus of the camcorder using the touch panel. Manual focusing also allows the user to control the focus in difficult situations where either the environment or the subject does not allow the camcorder's auto focus to perform optimally, such as when shooting through a window or in a crowded environment.Super NightShot Plus Infrared System
With Sony's Super NightShot Infrared System you can capture natural looking video, even when shooting in low light. Record subjects up to 20 feet away using the built-in infrared system, but without the overall monochrome color common with earlier low-light recording systems.
On-Screen Zoom and Record Controls
For additional control of the camcorder, the DCR-HC46 features Zoom and Record buttons on the frame of the LCD screen. This allows the user more flexibility when holding the camcorder, especially in overhead or low angle shots.
Additional Features

• Stamina Battery Power Management system
• Program AE (autoexposure) modes
• Picture effects
• Fader
• USB streaming
• Easy Handycam button
• Battery information

What's in the Box
Sony DCR-HC46 MiniDV camcorder, power adapter/in-camera charger (ACL25), InfoLithium rechargeable battery (NPFP50), Handycam Station (DRCA-C151), Remote Commander remote control (RMT-831), stereo AV cable, lens cap, USB cable CD-ROM with USB driver (PicturePackage Software ver. 1.5 for Sony)

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Customer Reviews

Most helpful customer reviews
356 of 361 people found the following review helpful.
Excellent audio-video quality and ease of use
By Ganesh Kumar Eswaran
This is one of the best camcorders in the market today and I would definitely recommend it to anyone planning to buy a Mini-DV camcorder

Positive factors:

- Very small and easy to hold with one hand. Can be easily attached even to a mini-tripod with ease.

- Excellent widescreen video and hi-fi audio. Your videos finally get that "Hollywood" feel when you shoot movies in 16:9 ratio (widescreen format). Even if you don't have a widescreen TV currently, you will very soon have one as more and more people are buying them. So its better to buy this camcorder and shoot in 16:9 format to enjoy your movies later in widescreen format.

- Includes widescreen rotatable LCD so what you see is what you get when you shoot in 16:9 ratio (widescreen format)

- Good battery life. One extra battery is enough. You can easily manage a day's worth of shooting with two batteries before recharging them again

- Includes docking station making it easier to connect to computer or TV. If you have a good computer with a firewire port, please buy a firewire cable to connect the camcorder to your computer. You can download your movie in excellent clarity in .avi format and edit it as required

- Make sure to change the audio setting to 16 bit (instead of the default 12 bit) for very good hi-fi audio

- Touchscreen menu system is great. You don't have to search for any buttons as they are all available in the touchscreen menu itself.

- 12X optical zoom is more than sufficient for ordinary home videos. Anything more produces more "shaking" and would necessiate the use of a tripod. When you shoot without a tripod, 12X is the best zoom you can achieve without worrying about shaky videos

- 1 MP widescreen still photo. You can use this feature if you forgot to bring your digital camera. The photo clarity is not good so please don't expect great shots. Since the photo is in 16:9 format, you can take panoramic photos and cover more people in group shots

- Nightshot: Cool feature that records using infrared light. Useful for shooting at night as you can record a video even in 100% darkness

- Color widescreen viewfinder - Very useful when you are running down on batteries and need to use the viewfinder. The color widescreen viewfinder gives an excellent picture and is as good as the LCD in clarity

Negative factors:

- Outdoor videos especially in bright sunlight are overexposed. So please adjust the white balance when shooting outdoors. Add the white-balance menu to your shortcuts so that you can easily access it and return to default once you start shooting indoors

- Sensitive microphone may pick up button clicks (best to turn off the button click "beep" sound).

Notes:

- Use a fresh cassette after recording 2 or 3 times on the same cassette. The head tends to get dirty if you re-record on the same cassette more than 3 times

- You can edit movies in Windowx XP using Windows Movie Maker, but beware it does not support 16:9 ratio video. Hence your videos look ugly as you shot them in 16:9 but Movie Maker converted it to 4:3. Invest in Pinnacle Software version 9 or 10 for better movie editing capabilities. Pinnacle is the only software, I am aware of, that preserves teh 16:9 ratio. Even Roxio could not allow 16:9 format.

- You can also invest in wide-angle lens as it gives excellent coverage
17 of 17 people found the following review helpful.
Look elsewhere if you need to shoot indoor video
By Arun H.
I bought this camera after looking through reviews on a plethora of sites; one of my primary requirements was to shoot indoor video. One good thing about this camera is that it is surprisingly small and light, which would no doubt make it easy to carry on trips. The other good thing is that it shoots fairly good outdoor video. But these are pretty much its only two strengths, and they are far outweighed by the lousy quality of the video I got when I tried the camera indoors. In the default mode, the picture is dark, extremely noisy, the colors are wildly inaccurate, and it looks as if the video is being shot through a yellow snow storm. Things improve slightly if the white balance is set to indoor mode, but the color fidelity and the graininess is still unacceptable. Another issue that I noticed was that the camera takes a noticeable amount of time to focus in on objects when you move it around, but this was a relatively minor inconvenience when compared to the abysmal low light performance.

I also noticed that there was a small but very prominent red speck on the LCD; the manual says that this is a "normal" result of the manufacturing process. Being somewhat familiar with this industry, I can tell you that it is more likely the result of lower QA standards to cut costs (how many of us have seen a color speck on a new laptop or desktop LCD?).

Before returning the camera, I went over to a local electronics store and shot similar footage with it and with a display model of a Panasonic PV-GS300. The quality of the video was far superior with the GS300; I noticed no graininess, the picture seemed to be steadier and always in focus, the colors more accurate.

My suggestion to all those thinking about buying this camera is to seriously consider spending the extra $100-$300 and purchasing the high end Sony HC96, the Panasonic GS300, or perhaps the GS500.
12 of 13 people found the following review helpful.
Awesome Mid-Range Camcorder
By Mike
The Sony DCR-HC46 is a terrific mid-range digital camcorder. It has a more than adequate 12x optical zoom (any more and even image stabilization won't remove the jitters). There are quick access buttons on the body of the camera, and a ton of features in the on-screen menus (available only on the swing-out LCD viewfinder). Using your fingers on these menus is much easier than I thought they would be, and most of those features are for infrequent occasions. In addition to the LCD viewfinder, there is a color traditional viewfinder (missing on many up-scale models like the DCR-SRxx line of hard drive camcorders), which is great when outdoors where the sun can wash out the LCD. We really appreciate the Handycam Station that makes connections to computers and TVs a breeze while charging the battery. Now that really is "handy."

Technically, the image capturing technology is the same as the hard drive-based DCR-SR80. However, MiniDV recording technology does not compress the digital images where hard disk and Mini DVD technologies do. Therefore when you transfer the data to your computer for editing, you avoid the uncompress process required by the latter two technologies. When you create the resulting DVD, that is the first and only compression to hit your video, meaning you get better image quality.

The cons? Well, the included software is woefully lacking. I'd like to author DVDs, but ImageMixer is a Video CD authoring tool. And VCD is so ten-years-ago. And the built-in 1 megapixel camera is truly a joke.
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