Sony HDR-HC1 Camcorder Review


Sony HDR HC1 picture

Sony HDR-HC1 2.8 MP HD MiniDV Camcorder w/10x Optical Zoom

Sony HDR-HC1 MiniDV Camcorder Product Description:

Sony's HDR-HC1 Handycam is an incredibly small, lightweight digital camcorder that still fits all the tools and features you need. This ultra-compact device fits comfortably in your hand, while delivering the best in image quality, control and connectivity. Get richer colors and more vivid detail with less glare, thanks to the advanced CMOS Sensor and Carl Zeiss lenses. Its 2.7-inch wide hybrid, touch-panel LCD screen lets users switch between 4:3 and 16:9 aspect ratios, and onscreen access to menu options. You can even record in low-light or no-light conditions with the Super NightShot(R) Infrared System. Other features include a built-in microphone for audio quality, an intelligent pop-up flash, and Super SteadyShot(R) image stabilization. Lens - Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T Lens Filter Diameter - 37mm Focusing - Full Range Auto/Manual(Ring)/One Touch Minimum Illumination - 7 lux Image Stabilization - Super Steadyshot White Balance - Auto/Outdoor/Indoor/One-Push Automatic Iris Control Super Low Light capability Active interface shoe Video in/out (multi) Audio in/out (stereo, multi) USB port (1.1) and i.LINK(R) DV interface (IEEE1394) Stereo Mini headphone jack & mic input Dimensions(WxHxD) - 2-7/8 x 3-3/4 x 7-1/2 (71 x 94 x 88mm)

Sony HC1 MiniDV Camcorder Features:

CMOS Sensor; 3 Megapixels (Gross)
HDV Recording Format
Switchable HDV/DV Format Recording
Real-Time HD Codec Engine
10x Optical/120x Digital Zoom Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* Lens
2.7-Inch (16:9) Hybrid Touch-Panel SwivelScreen LCD Display
Super SteadyShot Image-Stabilization System
Manual Zoom and Manual Focus Ring
Expanded Focus Indicator
Cinematic Mode
i.LINK2 DV Interface (IEEE1394)
Shot Transition
Tele Macro Function
Active Interface Shoe
Built-in Pop-up Intelligent Flash

Package Contents / Accessories for the HDR-HC1 HDV 1080i Handycam Camcorder:

Power adapter/in-camera charger (AC-L15), InfoLithium rechargeable battery (NP-FM50), wireless remote commander remote control (RMT-831), lens hood, lens cap, AV cable, component video cable, USB cable, shoulder strap, 16MB Memory Stick Duo Media.

Sony HDR-HC1 MiniDV Camcorder Review:

Pros:

  • Groundbreaking technology
  • Handling, ease of use
  • Compact size
  • Picture quality
  • Microphone jack
  • Very good viewfinder

Cons:

  • Battery life
  • Memory stick size
  • No Editor software included
  • Minor autofocus issues

More reviews of the Sony HDR-HC1 Camcorder: In her CNET product review Lori Grunin comes to the conclusion: "The Sony Handycam HDR-HC1 is a good first effort at a consumer HD camcorder, but only HD fanatics should consider it." The review on Camcorder Info finds "Nothing comes close and the HDR-HC1 even challenges Panasonic's PV-GS400 for the position of best value on the market today." If you would like to know, how actual users of the Sony HDR-HC1 Camcorder are judging it, you might want to read the consumer reviews of Sony's HDR-HC1 Camcorder on Amazon. Last not least have a look at Sony HDV Info, where you'll find a user forum and helpful articles like a Comparison between HDR-HC1 and HDR-FX1, Photos of the HDR-HC1, a Comparison between HDR-FX1, JVC GR-HD1 and JY-HD10U, and much more.

If you want to buy this camcorder, I recommend you to do it at Amazon. Buying is easy, shipping is fast, plus it has really low prices and a very good customer service. The link is: Sony HDR-HC1 Camcorder Store