New Handycam range from Sony

Premium HD Flash Memory and HDD models (CX550V, XR550V, CX350V, XR350V, CX305) feature a high quality Sony G Lens, with enhanced wide angle capability that captures approximately 2x larger shooting area compared with previous Handycam camcorders. Now it’s far easier to make sure nobody’s left out of the picture at parties, birthdays and other special occasions. Wide angle performance of CX550V/XR550V models is a class-leading 29.8 mm for video and 26.3 mm for still images (35 mm equivalent) in an even smaller body than their predecessors.

Thanks to an improved electrical image stabilisation system, entry HD models also benefit from SteadyShot Active Mode for up to 10x shake reduction (at wide end of zoom setting) compared with standard SteadyShot.

Developed by Sony, the acclaimed Exmor R CMOS Sensor with 2x increase in sensitivity is now available in all HD Handycam models, as well as the Standard Definition range-topping DCR-SX73. An innovative ‘back-illuminated’ design ensures that more light reaches photosensitive areas of the device without being obscured by connecting wires within the sensor. This boosts sensitivity compared with sensors that use a conventional ‘front-illuminated’ structure.

Autofocus operation with new Quick AF is now more accurate and twice as fast compared to previous Handycam camcorders. Thanks to faster focusing speeds, user enjoys consistently crisp and clear video clips – even when they are shooting in low light where many camcorders struggle to keep focus.

All HD models now support recording at up to 24Mbps, the highest bitrate offered by the AVCHD format: This allows to capture every scene in the best quality available. It’s a valuable addition for video enthusiasts needing to realise the full potential offered by the unique combination of G Lens, Exmor R CMOS Sensor, and powerful Bionz image processing technologies developed by Sony.

Already featured in Sony Cyber-shot cameras, Intelligent AUTO (iAUTO) takes away the guesswork from picking the optimum camcorder settings. Making its Handycam debut this year, iAUTO combines recognition of Face Detection, shooting situation (handheld or tripod), and ten different scene types. Based on this information, Handycam automatically optimises shooting parameters to give clear, satisfying results based on up to 90 different scene combinations (60 combinations for 3.1M/1.6M HD model).

Enhanced by a sleek new slim-frame design, the Clear Photo LCD now gives an even better view when you’re framing and reviewing scenes. Pixel count on the 6.7cm screen has been upped to 230k dots (from 210k dots), while viewing angle is boosted to 170 degrees to give everyone a clearer picture of your shots. Flagship CX550 and XR550 models are distinguished by a generously-sized 8.8cm Xtra Fine LCD. Featuring TruBlack technology used in flagship S-Frame digital photo frames by Sony, this screen assures superb image contrast and resolution to make viewing a pleasure.

New Golf Shot makes it easier than ever to check swing, frame by frame. In Golf Shot mode, Handycam starts capturing a continuous stream of high-speed images while the user is still waiting for the action to start. At the end of the swing, the Record button can be pressed – and the entire sequence is grabbed at an incredible 200 frames per second for silky-smooth slow motion replay. Then user can see the results both as a slow motion video, and a composite image with every frame of movement shown by a series of thumbnail-sized images in a single still picture.

New Standard Definition models benefit from a CCD with higher sensitivity that improves image quality in low light. Face Detection for video and stills has also been added, letting you capture beautifully exposed images of family and friends.

Entry-level SD models (Flash Memory and HDD) now sport an on-board video light to brighten up parties, interiors and other dimly-lit scenes.

Featured on all HD and SD models, Direct Copy lets you copy footage directly from Handycam to a compatible external hard disk drive for PC-free back-up and archiving.

Supplied with all Handycam models, latest PMB (Picture Motion Browser) software offers a new-look interface for easier management and enjoyment of your video and photo collection. PMB lets you browse through all your clips and still images with a unique Calendar view that automatically groups them by date. With PMB user can also burn favourites to disc, email them to friends and family, or upload to sharing sites like YouTube with a few mouse clicks.

The simple integration for sharing content on Facebook will also be available as a downloadable update to this software in spring. This complements the existing sharing capability with such sites as YouTube and Picasa Web Albums. With the new version, users will have the ability to share photos and videos on Facebook directly from PMB software.

The Spring 2010 Handycam line-up of Flash Memory and HDD camcorders by Sony is available from February 2010.